Best Ski Resorts in Europe — Where to Go for a Perfect Winter Trip

Winter always brings so much joy to ski lovers. There are so many places to practice, learn new tricks, or simply relax. INFOBUS has compiled the best ski resorts in Europe. Read on to explore popular ski resorts, where to go this winter, and what to do during your trip to make it unforgettable. 

Top 10 Ski Resorts in Europe

There are countless winter destinations with world-class ski resorts. Here’s the list of the top 10 ski resorts in Europe — from budget-friendly options to upscale resorts.

Zermatt, Switzerland

Zermatt is one of the most popular Switzerland ski resorts, open year-round for visitors. It’s also the highest ski area in Europe, which is home to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. Matterhorn mountain views are breathtaking and truly unbelievable — snowy peaks, icy slopes, and the grandeur of this natural wonder look like a scene from a movie. 

Zermatt is located in the Swiss Alps, close to the Italian border. The terrain is divided into 4 sectors with over 360 km (224 mi) of pistes. The village is car-free, so you can travel around by electric buses. This is a luxury resort with high-end chalets and facilities. A vacation here can be expensive, especially in the peak season. 

In addition to skiing, visitors can try different outdoor activities. The village offers many options for non-skiers, including snowshoeing, snowboarding, hiking, sleighing, and paragliding. Moreover, there’s a natural ice rink where you can try ice skating for free. 

  🔹 Best for: high-altitude skiing 

St. Anton, Austria

If you want to explore Austria ski resorts, consider St. Anton — one of the best winter destinations in the country. St. Anton resort is part of Ski Arlberg, the largest ski area in Austria, covering around 300 km (186 mi) of groomed slopes and 200 km (124 mi) of off-piste trails. The resort is great for its unique terrain, ideal for advanced skiers. 

Among other Austrian ski resorts, St. Anton stands out for its vibrant après-ski scene. For those looking for a lively atmosphere and some places to relax besides skiing, the resort is just the perfect match. There are bars and pubs on and off the slopes, so finding a party to enjoy won’t be a big deal. 

Skiing and snowboarding are the main winter activities here, but you can also try snowshoeing, paragliding, and ice skating. There are also options to relax at the Arlberg WellCom or Wellnesspark Arlberg. 

  🔹 Best for: lively après-ski scene

Selva, Italy 

Dolomites ski resorts are ideal for large, high-altitude slopes. Selva is a major resort at the head of Val Gardena in the Dolomites. It is surrounded by the Puez mountains, Sella Massif, and Sassolungo, with access to the Sella Ronda circuit. Explore 26 km (16 mi) of pistes across four resorts in the Dolomiti Superski area within one pass. 

It’s a perfect place for families with trails for both beginners and advanced skiers. Due to its past, the area blends both Italian and Austrian cultures, providing a unique ambience. This place is stunning, and the views of the Sella peaks are truly breathtaking. 

Selva offers many options in addition to skiing. Activities such as paragliding, ice skating, bowling, biking, and hiking are very popular in the area. Spa centers are also available — après-ski here is hectic and diverse. 

  🔹 Best for: family trips 

Chamonix, France 

Chamonix is one of the top France ski resorts, with expert-level slopes, fabulous landscapes, and high-altitude trails. The ski resort is located in the French Alps, at the foot of Mont Blanc. People come here for a high-end French vacation, challenging pistes, and a peaceful atmosphere. 

Besides 150 km (93 mi) of pistes for different-level skiers, there’s a legendary spot for those into extreme skiing and snowboarding — Vallée Blanche run. The 20 km (12 mi) long ungroomed slope through glaciers with a vertical drop is a fan favorite among professionals. In addition, there are pistes like Les Grand Montets, suitable for experts. 

Other attractions in the area include the Aiguille du Midi cable car. It takes you to over 3,800 m (12,467 ft), offering access to challenging runs and breathtaking views. Don’t forget to try spas, dog sledding, ice climbing, and ice skating. 

  🔹 Best for: expert-level skiing

Borovets, Bulgaria 

If you’re looking for affordable skiing, choose Bulgaria ski resorts. Borovets is an ideal destination for skiers on a budget — you can experience top-level facilities, lively ambiance, and wonderful nature at a reasonable price. The resort is located in the Rila Mountains, the highest mountain range in Southeast Europe. 

This resort is suitable for both beginners and experts, featuring 58 km (36 mi) of pistes. Modern lifts make it easy to reach even high-alpine runs. The main ski areas are Yastrebetz, Markudjik, and Sitnyakovo. The charming pine forest makes Borovets look like it's straight out of a movie.

The resort is one of the best cheap ski resorts in Europe, offering an affordable après-ski. Parties, pubs, bars, and hot springs — everything you need to relax in a ski resort. In addition to skiing, there are options for snowmobiling, ice skating, and tobogganing. Moreover, dining costs half the price of elite French resorts, which is why many people choose Borovets. 

  🔹 Best for: skiers on a budget 

Val d’Isère, France

Val d'Isère is popular for its traditional alpine village with a vibrant atmosphere, modern facilities, and world-class skiing. Among the French ski resorts, Val d'Isère is known for its authentic charm, wooden and stone chalets, and off-piste terrain. 

The resort is part of the Espace Killy ski area, with over 300 km (186 mi) of groomed pistes. There are ski schools for beginners and exciting slopes for advanced skiers. The location is known for its black runs and off-piste trails suitable for professionals. Alp ski resorts are also renowned for a long season due to their high-altitude areas. 

The village offers a bustling nightlife, high-end hotels, excellent dining places, and spas. There are options for snowmobiling, paragliding, dog sledding, ice skating, ice climbing, and fat biking. Don’t forget to visit the Centre Aquasportif for indoor non-snow activities.

  🔹 Best for: a traditional alpine village 

Kitzbühel, Austria 

Austria ski resorts are as diverse as they are charming. Kitzbühel is renowned for its historic medieval town, an upscale atmosphere, and the iconic Hahnenkamm downhill race. It’s among the best ski resorts in Europe — it’s been recognized multiple times as the World’s Best Ski Resort by World Ski Awards. 

Kitzbühel features 233 km (145 mi) of pistes across three mountain ranges. The terrain is suitable for both beginners and expert skiers. The main highlight of the resort is the Streif downhill course, one of the most challenging and steepest runs in alpine skiing. Kitzbühel also hosts one of the most prestigious alpine skiing races, the annual Hahnenkamm race. 

As for the après-ski, you can enjoy a lively nightlife, an abundance of bars and pubs, and glamorous dining. Non-skiers can explore the medieval town, go on carriage rides, try snowshoeing, and relax in spas. 

  🔹 Best for: challenging runs 

Verbier, Switzerland 

Verbier is a gem for those who love Switzerland ski resorts. This is a large resort in the Swiss Alps, where visitors can find luxurious hotels, diverse terrain, and off-piste runs. The resort is very glamorous, attracting celebrities from around the world. 

Verbier is a key part of the 4 Vallées ski area, which comprises 410 km (255 mi) of groomed runs — the largest ski area in Switzerland. In addition, the terrain is diverse with many options for those seeking off-piste runs. There are trails for skiers of all levels, so it’s also considered one of the best ski resorts in Europe for families. 

Verbier is also great for freeriding, ice climbing, and snowshoeing. The après-ski scene is buzzing and features bars and restaurants. The resort also offers plenty of entertainment both on and off the slopes. 

  🔹 Best for: glamorous scene

Crans-Montana, Switzerland

Crans-Montana is one of the best ski resorts for beginners, with plenty of blue runs for beginner skiers. It’s located in the canton of Valais, right above the Rhone River valley, and features an extensive terrain.

Among all the Swiss ski resorts, south-facing Crans-Montana stands out for its sunny weather, offering panoramic views of sunlit glaciers, the charming Matterhorn, and Mont Blanc. The resort features 140 km (87 mi) of groomed pistes with runs for all levels of skiers. Skiers and snowboarders enjoy the Alaïa snowpark, suitable for freestyle. Experts will also appreciate off-piste runs such as Piste Nationale. 

Besides skiing, the resort offers a lively culture scene — concerts, exhibitions, and screenings. You’ll also find wonderful gourmet restaurants, luxury hotels, upscale boutiques, and a casino. Non-skiers can find plenty of things to do, including going to an indoor sports center, snowmobiling, and sledding.

  🔹 Best for: beginners and non-skiers 

Courchevel, France 

Courchevel is a true treasure in the world of skiing. It’s one of the most popular French ski resorts. The French Alps welcome everyone with luxurious chalets, modern facilities, and a high-end atmosphere. This place is renowned for international clientele and celebrities vacationing in the heart of the French Alps.

Courchevel features the largest ski area in the world — the Three Valleys. Skiing through connected valleys provides access to 600 km (373 mi) of groomed runs for skiers of all levels. The diverse terrain has smooth trails for beginners and off-piste runs for experts, such as the steep Grand Couloir. 

The vibrant après-ski scene is packed with luxury amenities. There are upscale hotels, traditional chalets, boutiques, and plenty of Michelin-starred restaurants. The resort features an airstrip for private jets and options for non-skiers like bowling, ice skating, and snowshoeing. Winter in Courchevel features a festive atmosphere, workshops, and glamorous events. 

  🔹 Best for: luxurious skiing experience

Travel to the Best Ski Resorts in Europe with INFOBUS

The winter season is the best time to visit ski resorts in Europe. From Borovets to Zermatt — there are options for everyone. And INFOBUS is here to get you there.

There are the 10 best ski resorts in Europe to visit this winter. Our service partners with numerous trusted carriers. Enter a destination and look for convenient routes on INFOBUS. We provide hundreds of options — browse options, compare prices, and choose what works best for you. Buy travel tickets on INFOBUS and enjoy a stress-free booking experience. 

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FAQ 

What are the top 3 ski resorts in Europe?

The top ski resorts in Europe are Chamonix, Courchevel, and Verbier. These resorts are popular for their vibrant après-ski scene, modern facilities, and runs for both beginners and experts. 

What are the top 10 ski resorts in Europe?

The top 10 ski resorts in Europe are Zermatt, Selva, Chamonix, St. Anton, Crans-Montana, Courchevel, Verbier, Kitzbühel, Val d'Isère, and Borovets. 

Which ski resort in Europe is the most luxurious?

Courchevel is considered the most luxurious and high-end resort in Europe. Zermatt is also renowned for its upscale ambience, great hotels, and gourmet dining. 

Where is it cheapest to ski in Europe? 

Borovets is one of the cheapest ski resorts in Europe — affordable après-ski, modern lifts, extensive terrain, and plenty of runs for both beginners and advanced skiers. 

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