The 12 best ski resorts in Europe

Class yourself as a total beginner, powder hound, park rat, or mega foodie? Europe is the place to be! We’re not exaggerating when we say everyone will find their jam across Europe’s 3,949 ski resorts and 23,768 miles of trails. 

But which ski resorts are the best of the best? We’ve rounded them up below! You’ll notice we’ve included a bit of everything – from the boujee to the bold and epic. Every ski resort is an absolute bucket-list destination for skiers and snowboarders worldwide. So, prepare to see fellow riders’ eyes twitch with envy if you hit one, two, three, or more! 

Of course, you’ll need head-turning gear for mouth-watering destinations, right? Good thing our latest collection of ski pants for women and ski pants for men is live and ready to ride!

Where to ski in Europe

St. Moritz, Switzerland

First up, it’s Switzerland’s OG! Yep, many consider St. Moritz the place where Switzerland’s ski scene was born. And it hasn’t lost its magic touch. Head here for 217 miles of dreamy, long, and winding slopes (almost half of which are intermediate graded), or dip your toes into St. Moritz’s impressive and epic off-piste. And you’ll often find all this wrapped in light champagne pow – which you can easily pair with actual champagne, thanks to St. Moritz’s numerous fancy bars! Our top pick? It’s got to be Paradiso! Enjoy a glass of bubbles on their famous Music Deck. Why not pair your glass with a plate of their oysters, too? 

Down in town, luxury and exclusivity are the order of the day, with world-class hotels and restaurants sitting alongside chic boutiques filled with jet-setters. If you’d rather see your heart rate skyrocket because of adrenaline rather than your credit card bill, check out the Cresta Run, a 150-year-old natural bobsled course and former Olympic track. Today, it’s thought to be the world’s most hardcore toboggan run, reaching speeds of over 80mph! Rather get your kicks in a terrain park? Aim for the Corviglia Snowpark with rails, kickers, boxes, and wallrides for all levels. 

Top tip: Riding means refueling! And, man, are you spoiled for choice in St. Moritz! Our top pick is riding to Chasellas for its classic wiener schnitzel on the terrace. And when you’re done for the day? It’s straight to Restaurant Veltinerkeller in town for cheese fondue. 

Val d'Isère, France

Whether you’re with beginners, pros, or freeriders, Val d’Isere has something to keep every rider stoked. That’s all thanks to tons of easy and intermediate slopes alongside thigh-burning steeps (Val has over 20 black runs!) and more than 24,710 acres of off-piste terrain with steep couloirs and hectic drop-ins to tackle. There’s also an epic terrain park with over 40 kickers (including two XL kickers for the pros among you) and friendly comps throughout the winter. And for post-shred shenanigans? Val D delivers the goods. Just head to Dick’s Tea Bar for Jägerbombs galore.

If, for some reason, you think 94 miles of on-piste terrain isn’t enough, get yourself a Tignes-Val d'Isère pass. Yes, Val d'Isère links with Tignes to form the world-famous Tignes-Val d'Isère ski area, with 186 miles of glorious terrain served by 150 high-tech, fast-running lifts. Of course, you’ll need a pit stop or two, right? Then break for a breather (and a dance on the tables) at La Folie Douce, a world-famous bar-meets-cabaret-and-dancing institution, slap-bang in the middle of the two resorts. 

Top tip: After you’ve shaken out your ski legs at Folie, ride back to Val via La Face. It’s a black-rated two-mile former Olympic run, and it has to be done! Just think: with every turn, you’re one step closer to a Dick’s Jägerbomb or a boogie at the equally epic La Doudoune. 

Kitzbühel, Austria

Kitzbühel is an Austrian powerhouse. It’s home to the iconically hair-raising Streif downhill ski race on the Hahnenkamm (with a head-spinning 85% vertical) and impressive off-piste runs through awesome glades. But it perfectly balances its toughness with Alpine beauty, including a 750-year-old picturesque medieval center with cobblestone streets and stunning views. Plus, beginners and intermediates will find more than enough to explore with 134 miles of skiable terrain. You’ll also discover the formidable Snowpark Kitzbühel. Sponsored by Planet Sports and DC, this ever-changing terrain park features numerous innovative features, kickers, boxes, rails, and jibs.

Want to level up? Grab yourself the Kitzbühel Alps SuperSkiCard. This gives you access to the world’s largest ski network, with over 1,709 miles of slopes across 21 different ski areas! If you can still stand after a day of blasting, it’s time for après! Head for Hahnenkamm Pavillion Bar for lively crowds and pumping tunes. Searching for a 60s London vibe and a 4 am closing time? The Londoner is for you. More into karaoke? Belt your chosen anthem at the Lightl Pub.

Top tip: Head up the Hahnenkamm mountain. Don’t worry – you don’t have to race! Aim for Restaurant Hochkitzbühel bei Tomsch instead for a glass of wine alongside 360-degree spectacular scenery (spot the Großglockner, Austria's highest mountain). Double up and arrive here on a Friday or Saturday night to dance your ski socks off to international DJs from the likes of Ibiza and Miami.

Zermatt, Switzerland

Sometimes, bigger is just better. And few places can top Zermatt. Standing at a vertigo-challenging 12,739 feet at the summit – and surrounded by the Alps’ tallest peaks (including the mighty Matterhorn) – Zermatt offers impressive views, insane riding conditions, and incredible food. Basically, every rider’s trifecta, right? Oh, you’ll also have 224 miles of runs to rip. Why not dip into Italy, too? It’s right next door. Yep, Zermatt shares its famous Matterhorn Glacier Paradise area with Cervinia’s Plateau Rosa Glacier. Plus, the new Matterhorn Glacier Ride II links the two countries by cable car. 

You’ll find Europe’s highest terrain park on Zermatt’s Theodul Glacier – perfect for catching air in the clouds at 9,816 feet. And if you thought Zermatt couldn’t get any more epic, think again. Its screensaver-worthy alpine village is car-free and home to iconic après-ski spots, such as Hennu Stall and Harry’s Ski Bar. There’s also plenty for non-riders to sink their teeth into, such as spas, luxury shops, fine-dining restaurants, and more.   

Top tip: Tackle the Obere National in Sunnegga, Zermatt’s most famous black run. It’s an ex-World Cup run, just under two miles long with a gnarly 600-meter vertical. Sheesh! After something a little gentler? Take the No.15 red trail. It’s winding and wide, with insane views of the Matterhorn! 

Chamonix, France

Few places in the world can beat ‘The Cham’ when it comes to freeriding. This is where pros head to charge hardcore lines, ski mountaineers come for top-notch qualifications, and the vast, impressive terrain keeps you coming back for more. Oh, how could we forget it also lies in the shadows of Mont Blanc, the Alps’ highest peak at 15,771 feet? Of course, if you’re up for it, you have to do the iconic Vallée Blanche, a leg-screaming 12-mile off-piste glacier descent in the middle of the Mont Blanc Massif. It’s unrelenting but a true Chamonix badge of honor. 

Don’t worry if you’re more into groomers than gnarliness. Although it has an extreme reputation, Chamonix has tons of beginner and intermediate slopes. There’s also Les Houches for family-friendly runs and Le Tour for mellow trails. Then, it’s time for Chamonix’s fierce après-ski reputation! Grab a bandana and look like a freeride local by dancing at Les Marmottons and Chambre Neuf. 

Top tip: Check out MBC Chamonix Microbrewery! It’s near Chamonix’s pedestrianized center and serves delicious craft beers brewed in-house using pure Chamonix water!

Val Gardena, Italy

Venturing with a mixed-ability group? Head for Val Gardena in Italy. Why? Well, it’s a group of villages smack-bang in the middle of the super-sized Dolomiti Superski area. That means you’ll have over 750 miles of trails across 12 different resorts! And there’s something for every rider – from beginners linking their first turns on the mellow runs of the Alpe di Suisi area to progress-hungry intermediates wanting to perfect their turns on blues and reds in the Seceda area. Box-fresh newbies can find their groove in the Plan de Gralba. And for advanced riders? Test your mettle at the Dantercepies area. More of a powder hound wanting to score off-piste goodness? Hire a guide to unearth the in-the-know spots, or leave your tracks under the Forcella Sassolungo lift for everyone to admire. 

If you need a helping hand with which village to stay at, you can’t go wrong with Selva Val Gardena. It’s right on the Sella Ronda, a world-famous, bucket-list 29-mile ski circuit encircling the Sella Massif. Within the village, you’ll indulge in drool-worthy Italian cuisine, luxurious chalets, and stunning scenery. And how could we forget the après-ski? Set your sights (and dancing feet) on La Stua, with live music and champagne on the terrace daily from 3.30 pm. 

Top tip: Travelling with foodies? You’re in Italy! So, take them for a dreamy sunrise breakfast at Dantercepies Mountain Restaurant Lounge. They’ll drool over breakfast and streaks of bacon alongside the mind-boggling streaks of pinks and oranges in the sky at 8,202 feet.  

Courchevel, France

If you’re looking for the definitive five-star ski experience, look no further than Courchevel. This resort’s six interconnected villages are dripping in luxury, with eye-wateringly expensive hotels and accommodation alongside upscale boutiques, heated pavements (yes, really), and 11 Michelin-star restaurants. And, thanks to the Les Trois Vallées/Three Valleys, the riding is high class, too. Courchevel is part of one of the world’s largest ski areas, with over 373 miles of trails to play with. Pair that with its high number of north-facing runs and exceptional snowfall (even into spring), and you have a recipe for both bling and blissful riding. 

And why not start your kids riding young in Courchevel’s Children’s Village (Courchevel 1850)? It’s a dedicated kids’ ski area with over seven acres of tailored terrain for your lil’ rippers to play and progress on. Just don’t come for us if Courchevel gives them a permanent taste for the finer things in life… Courchevel 1300 also has a designated beginner zone, while Courchevel Moriond (1650) is better for intermediate riders. Looking for more family-friendly activities? Head to Courchevel 1850. There, you’ll find the free luge run, which starts at the top of the Grangettes gondola and winds down through the trees into Courchevel 1550. There are also floodlit slopes for night skiing, a bowling alley, ice skating, a cinema, and more. 

Top tip: Once the lifts stop spinning, schmooze with A-listers at Les Caves de Courchevel. More into surrounding yourself with wine? You can’t go wrong with Le P’tit Drink. 

Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy

Want to be surrounded by the Dolomites everywhere you turn? Cortina d’Ampezzo is the ski resort for you! Prepare to have your mind blown by the sight of Cinque Torri, five towering peaks, and also a UNESCO-listed site. Overall, Cortina d’Ampezzo is more laid-back than some flashier resorts on our list. However, this doesn’t mean it doesn’t absolutely slay when it comes to shredding. In fact, intermediates will sing Cortina’s praises, as over half of its slopes are marked to their level. With someone wanting to flex their off-piste skills? Take them down the Bus de Tofana, labeled by many as one of the Dolomites’s top off-piste areas. 

Much like Val Gardena, Cortina d’Ampezzo is also part of the mind-boggling Dolomiti Superski, giving you access to nearly 750 miles of trails! More into cross-country skiing? Glide away the days on Europe’s biggest network of XC trails! Then, it’s all about soaking up Cortina’s Olympic-sized amenities. Yes, try your hand at Cortina’s Olympic bobsled run and its Olympic-sized ice skating rink. 

Top tip: You have to try the Saslong slope, thought to be one of the steepest blacks in the Dolomites! Every year, the Saslong is used as the FIS Ski World Cup course – and you can give it a go, too. You’ll access infamous sections, including the ‘Camel Humps’, the ‘Sochers Walls’, and the ‘Zielschuss’. Just don’t try to shred as fast as World Cup racers. They complete this 2.3-mile course in under two minutes!

St. Anton, Austria

St. Anton am Arlberg is amazing for partying and playing! It’s home to world-famous après-ski spots like MooserWirt and Krazy Kanguruh as well as some of the best terrain in Austria across the Ski Arlberg region. Along with Lech, Zürs, Warth, Schröcken, and Stuben, St. Anton is part of Austria’s largest interconnected ski area, with almost 200 miles of slopes to slash before you sink a cold one. Rather venture off-piste? You’re in luck! St. Anton has enormous backcountry possibilities and insane freeriding. Our favorite off-piste trails? Valluga North Face and Hinterer Rendl. 

Okay, if you’re after a beginner-friendly and quiet getaway, you’ll probably want to swerve St. Anton. This place is big, bold, and brilliant. However, newbies can find some mellow beginner terrain on the lower village slopes by Nasserein. Down in town, St. Anton’s Alpine charm will sweep you off your feet – and probably plant them firmly on a table to dance. The pedestrianized center features après-ski bars, cafes, shops, restaurants, and more. You can even take an evening horse-drawn sleigh or experience bouldering, ice climbing, tennis, bowling, and more at arl.park. 

Top tip: Rip ‘The Run of Fame’, a 53-mile-long circuit around the whole Ski Arlberg region, starting from St. Anton and going through Stuben, Zürs, Lech, and Schröcken to Warth and back. You can do the route in both directions via lifts and either do it in one day or across multiple legs.

Les Arcs, France

Okay, we appreciate some ski resorts on our list are famous for their hardcore status. And, as such, beginners might think Europe’s top spots are only reserved for experienced riders. But that’s not the case, and Les Arcs is the perfect example of that. This French ski resort serves up epicness for the pros while incorporating beginners into the mix with multiple free learner lifts. You’ll find winding, laid-back slopes perfect for progression alongside plenty of excellent private and group lessons throughout Les Arc’s main villages – Arcs 1600, Arcs 1800, Arcs 1950, and Arcs 2000. There are also designated areas in each one for children to learn.  

And that’s not all Les Arcs has to boast about. It’s also linked with La Plagne, creating the massive Paradiski area. If you’re an experienced rider, head to Aiguille Rouge for a super fun 1.5-mile trail to Villaroger. More into freestyle? Check out the 18.5-acre Snowpark. Here, you’ll discover three pistes for all levels, including four kicker lines for beginners to intermediates, a beginners’ mini pipe, and an expert-only big line.  

Top tip: Experience après served chilled at Arc 2000’s igloo village – the largest in the French Alps! Arrive via skis and enter the ice cave to have your drinks served super cold from the ice bar. Then, it’s down into El Latino Loco for food, cocktails, and dancing until 4 am! 

Verbier, Switzerland

Looking to party hard and still make first lifts? Verbier is the place for powder hounds and partygoers! You’ll après until you drop at legendary bars such as the Farm Club and Farinet, but not before you’ve dropped into Verbier’s iconic shred spots. These include Stairway to Heaven, Croix de Coeur, Marlenaz, Col des Mines, and more. Tackled the Tortin (one of Europe’s steepest descents)? Expect congratulatory pints lined up at the bar once you have!

However, don’t worry if you’re not into accessing your turns via narrow couloirs or cliff drops. As part of the 4 Vallées/Four Valleys ski region, Verbier offers over 250 miles of slopes for you to play with instead. Look out for lifts named after Diana Ross and James Blunt! Then, raise a glass to awesome riding days at the W Verbier, a mountain institution, or order a ski-shot and dance to resident DJs at W Off Piste, their outdoor après-ski bar.

Top tip: Be in town for the legendary YETI Xtreme Verbier, part of the Freeride World Tour (FWT). You’ll witness the world’s best freeriders conquer epic technical lines off the Bec des Rosses. And the after-party vibes are pretty epic, too! 

Tignes, France

Purpose-built to provide an awesome time, you’ll be hard-pushed not to love Tignes. This three-village ski resort offers tons of fun on and off the mountain all winter and part of summer, too – thanks to the 11,339-foot Grande Motte glacier staying open. Yep, Tignes’s altitude means you’re almost always guaranteed rad snow – perfect for cruising its wide-open slopes, hitting the varied terrain park, or taking a huge bite out of its tasty off-piste terrain. Don’t forget – Tignes also links with Val d'Isère to create the phenomenal 186-mile Tignes-Val d'Isère ski area. 

On a bluebird morning, you can’t beat Tignes’ Palafour (P4), a cruisey east-facing blue you’ll want to lap all day. Looking for more of a challenge? Ride from the top (11,339 feet) to Val Claret (one of Tignes’s villages at 6,890 feet). It’s a leg-burner but one of the most fun top-to-bottom trails in the Alps. After scoring off-piste pow or endless laps, it’s time for après-ski. And, man, Tignes knows how to excel. Few places worldwide can top Loop or The Marmot Arms in Le Lac, Cocorico in Val Claret, or La Queue de Cochon in Lavachet. 

Top tip: Tignes is one huge bowl above the treeline. So, if you find yourself in a whiteout, head for the trees at Tignes Les Brevieres (4,265 feet). They’re the definition of fun! 

Wrapping up

Yew! What a lineup, right? Europe knows how to serve up epic ski resorts with incredible terrain, super fun après-ski, insane food, and more. In fact, is anyone else already wishing summer away so we can go play?

Nodding along with our suggestions or annoyed we’ve skipped your favorite? Let us know via crew@dopesnow.com, and we’ll be more than happy to tweak. Alternatively, if you want to learn more about the best ski resorts in Europe, hit us up, too. Our crew has been to each one and can give you extra tips, tricks, and – of course – all the latest gear recommendations. 

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• Ski jackets for women / Ski jackets for men
• Best East Coast ski resorts
• Ski clothes for women / Ski clothes for men
• Avalanche safety