The Best Ski Resorts in Europe

Home to the majestic Alps and some of the most challenging slopes in the world, Europe is a dream destination for winter sports lovers all over the world. If you’re coming from the US you’ll be pleased to hear that the best ski resorts in Europe are much cheaper than in the US or Canada.

Because ski resorts in Europe are spread over several countries, finding the perfect destination for you requires taking into account not just the slopes themselves, but also the culture, gastronomy, and vibe of each place. Ski locales like Courchevel in France and Cervina in Italy may both offer similar tapes, but the overall experience you’ll get at both resorts will vary greatly!

If you’re currently wondering where to go in Europe this winter for some serious fun in the snow adventures, here are some of my top recommendations for the best ski resorts in Europe to keep on your radar!

I grew up in Europe and lived in various places as an adult, so I had a chance to ski and snowboard and many European resorts.

The ski resorts below are the most picturesque and well-known, but there are many more than that (I also enjoy skiing in Madonna di Campiglio, Zillertal, Risoul 1850). You can truly ski anywhere in Europe, but one question you need to ask yourself is whether you pick a glacier or regular mountains.

On a glacier, you don’t depend on snow as you can ski there pretty much the whole season and even beyond. In other spots, you might depend on snow conditions.

1. Courchevel, France

Part of the wonderful Les Trois Vallèes (The Three Valleys), Courchevel is a fantastic resort in the French Alps that offers exceptional skiing and snowboarding across the most expansive interlinked ski area in the entire world.

Famous for being the fanciest winter playground for millionaires in France, Courchevel consists of four villages, with Courchevel 1850 offering some of the most luxurious accommodations, finest dining, and plenty of upscale boutiques. This is where you’re most likely to come elbow-to-elbow with the rich and famous, provided you’re willing to splurge!

Courchevel offers a very balanced selection of greens, blues, reds, and blacks across three valleys. This means it makes for epic skiing for beginners and experts alike. For those traveling with kids, the Children’s Village features more than seven acres where kids can learn and enjoy special activities created just for them.

If you’d only visit Courchevel on a date trip, there are some tours you can join.

Some amazing resorts in Courchevel to Stay at:

Grand Hôtel Courchevel 1850 – Featuring direct access to the ski slopes and close to Chenus and Loze Ski Lifts, this luxurious hotel in Courchevel also includes a sauna, fireplace in the lounge, and offers ski storage. Luxurious rooms and suites include every amenity and beautiful views of the surrounding mountainside.
Le Saint Joseph – Featuring a spa, a tanning booth, and a steam bath, this hotel has lovely rooms with wooden decor. Chenus Ski Lift and Loze Ski Lift are nearby.
Les Suites de la Potinière – This 5-star resort in the heart of Courchevel, features an onsite ski shop, indoor swimming pool, and spa. From classic rooms to penthouse apartments with 4-bedrooms, this hotel has everything.
Les Monts Charvin – A little lighter on the pocket than the first three, this eco-friendly hotel in downtown Courchevel is set in an old Savoyard chalet. Close to Verdons, Chenus, and Jardin Alpin 1 Ski Lift, the charming rooms look like you’re in an alpine fairytale.

2. Zermatt, Switzerland

Set beneath the majestic Matterhorn, Zermatt is an iconic ski destination that has something to offer everyone regardless of their level of expertise.

Because it’s surrounded by one of the highest peaks in the Swiss Alps, Zermatt offers 223 miles worth of runs with plenty of blues, greens, reds, and blacks to suit just about everyone.

Plus, this gorgeous town on the Swiss-Italian border has access to four large ski areas, a state-of-the-art lift system, and a new ski-in/ski-out test center on the Theodul Glacier where skiers can demo the latest snow equipment. The good news is that you can enjoy skiing and snowboarding here pretty much year-round!

Beyond the skiing experience, Zermatt is a charming car-free alpine village with a quaint historic downtown you’ll love exploring. Here, horse-drawn sleighs are the most popular form of transportation!

Don’t be deceived by its rustic appearance, though, as the town has no shortage of luxury boutiques, Michelin-star restaurants, and ritzy après-ski entertainment. The cost of visiting Zermatt is high, but worth every single penny if your wallet can handle it.

Tours you can take in Zermatt

Where to stay in Zermatt

Riffelalp Resort 2222m – The name says it all. Located at 2222 m high, this resort is in the ski, hiking and biking region above Zermatt. Most rooms and suites include balconies, and guests have access to the sun terrace, saunas, steam rooms, hot tub, solarium, and an outdoor spa that’s heated to 35°C.
Grand Hotel Zermatterhof – Opened in 1879, this luxury hotel is home to a Vita Borno spa, 3 restaurants, a pool, a sauna, and more. Make sure to pick a room or suite with Matterhorn views!
The Omnia –