Hit the slopes at these 9 best ski towns in Europe

Snow-capped peaks calling your name? Europe is packed with idyllic ski towns that are always among the top ski destinations in the world, whether you’re chasing pristine Alpine powder or après-ski activities in cozy mountain villages. And from the intense slopes of Chamonix in France to the family-friendly resorts of Bansko in Bulgaria, there’s a destination for every level of skier.

St. Anton draws thrill-seekers to Austria’s rugged terrain, while Zermatt in the Swiss Alps — in the shadow of the iconic Matterhorn — has the allure of year-round skiing. For beginners and experts, Europe’s skiing destinations mean beautiful scenery, mountain culture, and the perfect adventure. This roundup of the best ski towns in Europe should make choosing one a little easier.

The best ski towns in Europe at a glance

Best for après-ski: St. Anton, Austria
The top choice for families: Bansko, Bulgaria
Most unique alpine scenery: Zermatt, Switzerland
Best ski slopes for newbies: Courchevel, France
Most challenging terrain: Chamonix, France

1. Chamonix, France

Chamonix is legendary among skiers for its dramatic Mont Blanc backdrop and challenging terrain. Known for its steep slopes, off-piste adventures, and mountain town atmosphere, Chamonix is also home to France’s highest cable car, which goes from Chamonix to the summit of the Aiguille du Midi.

Top ski resorts in Chamonix

Grands Montets, Brevent-Flegere, Le Tour/Balme, and Vallée Blanche.

Ski season

Late November to late April.

What not to miss

Try the Vallée Blanche off-piste route, a 12-mile glacier run that’s a bucket-list topper for many seasoned skiers.

Insider tip

For beginners, or skiers who want to spend their first day prepping for more difficult slopes, head to the Le Tour/Balme ski resort. It has gentler slopes and views over the Chamonix Valley.

2. Zermatt, Switzerland

With the Matterhorn towering above and a famous cogwheel train, skiing is just one of the exciting things to do in Zermatt. This car-free Swiss town is surrounded by ski resorts like Matterhorn Glacier Paradise and Gornergrat. A mix of challenging runs, glacier skiing — and an extremely high-altitude terrain ideal for year-round skiing — makes Zermatt a stand-out destination. Zermatt’s ski lifts connect with Cervinia in Italy, letting visitors enjoy a seamless cross-border skiing experience.

Top ski resorts in Zermatt

Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, Sunnegga-Blauherd-Rothorn, Gornergrat.

Ski season

Year-round.

What not to miss

For a scenic journey from Zermatt to the Gornergrat summit, take the Gornergrat Railway — one of the highest open-air cog railways in Europe with incredible views of the Matterhorn.

Insider tip

Purchase a combined lift pass to ski in Zermatt and Cervinia for a two-country adventure.

3. St. Anton, Austria

St. Anton is the heart of Austria’s ski culture, with challenging runs and deep powder fields. Galzig is a popular ski area, unique for its Ferris wheel-style gondola that takes you to steep pistes and freeride zones.

Top ski resorts in St. Anton

Arlberg Ski Area, Rendl, and Galzig.

Ski season

December to mid-April.

What not to miss

Explore the Valluga Peak via the Vallugabahn cable car for romantic views and photo opportunities. And take a break from the slopes to visit the Arlberg Museum dedicated to the region’s skiing legacy.

Insider tip

Beginners can head to Nasserein, an area with gentler slopes and quality ski schools to build confidence.

4. Courchevel, France

Courchevel is part of Trois Vallées, the largest interconnected ski area in the world, and has endless terrain to explore. Its upscale reputation is matched by its accessibility, with wide, groomed runs suitable for all ski levels. Courchevel is also famous for its luxury chalets, Michelin-starred dining, and top-notch ski schools.

Top ski resorts in Courchevel

Courchevel 1850, Courchevel Moriond, and Courchevel La Tania.

Ski season

Late November to early May.

What not to miss

Take the Saulire cable car for amazing views of the Alps.

Insider tip

Opt for the Courchevel La Tania resort for a family-friendly vibe and more affordable lodging options.

5. Verbier, Switzerland

Sunny Verbier is a skiers’ haven nestled in the Swiss Alps, known for its challenging terrain and fun atmosphere. Part of the extensive 4 Vallées ski area, this famous European ski town has over 400 km of pistes, with options for all skill levels. Advanced skiers and snowboarders are drawn to its renowned off-piste runs. In town, it’s all about soaking up its authentic Alpine charm and the buzzing après-ski scene.

Top ski resorts in Verbier

4 Vallées, Mont Gelé, and Savoleyres.

Ski season

Late November to late April.

What not to miss

Take on the Mont Fort run for one of the most sought-after descents in the Alps, but be prepared for a serious challenge.

Best time to go

Visit Verbier during the Verbier Xtreme freeride competition in March to see some of the world’s best skiers tackle the terrain.

6. Val d’Isère, France

Val d’Isère is a premier French ski destination near the Italian border known for its high-altitude slopes and connection to Tignes, forming the Espace Killy ski area. The ski resorts here feature everything from kid-friendly slopes to advanced runs like La Face de Bellevarde, a black run from the 1992 Olympics Winter Games in Albertvillw. Val d’Isère’s charming Alpine architecture and ski schools are big bonuses.

Top ski resorts in Val d’Isère

Espace Killy (Val d’Isère-Tignes), Solaise, and La Face de Bellevarde.

Ski season

Late November to early May.

What not to miss

Off the slopes, experience the thrill of ice driving, or unwind at the Centre Aquasportif spa.

Insider tip

For families, the Solaise area offers beginner-friendly slopes and a kid-friendly ski village.

7. Bansko, Bulgaria

Bansko, set in the Pirin Mountains, is an accessible and budget-friendly option for skiers looking for quality without the high price tag. The Bansko Ski Area features modern lifts and a mix of long blue runs and technical descents. The town’s cobblestone streets are lined with mehanas, traditional Bulgarian taverns where hearty stews and local wines provide the perfect end to a day on the slopes.

Top ski resorts in Bansko

Bansko Ski Area, Chalin Valog, and Shiligarnika.

Ski season

Mid-December to mid-April.

What not to miss

Walk through Bansko’s Old Town to see historic sites like the Holy Trinity Church and experience local dining.

Insider tip

Rent ski equipment in town for lower prices than at the resort. Many rental shops in Bansko offer discounted rates and discounts, especially if you book online in advance.

8. Kitzbühel, Austria

Kitzbühel is a fairytale ski town with cobblestone streets, pastel-colored buildings, and a world-class ski area. The Hahnenkamm ski resort is home to the Streif run, considered one of the most challenging downhill courses in the world. In town, pedestrian-friendly streets are lined with boutique shops, one-of-a-kind eateries, and festive decorations in winter.

Top ski resorts in Kitzbühel

Hahnenkamm, KitzSki Area, Kitzbüheler Horn.

Ski season

Mid-November to mid-April.

What not to miss

Take the 3S-Umlaufbahn cable car for panoramic views of the Kaiser Mountains.

Best time to go

Plan your visit in late January to witness the legendary Hahnenkamm race, one of the world’s most prestigious and thrilling downhill ski events.

9. Aviemore, Scotland

Aviemore, located at the heart of the Cairngorm Mountains, is a favorite spot for ski and winter sports lovers in the UK. The Cairngorm Mountain Resort is a highlight, known for its well-maintained pistes and a snow sports school that caters to beginners and families. Beyond skiing, you can enjoy other activities like winter hiking and wildlife spotting. Aviemore’s town center is well-prepped for skiers before and after the slopes too, with ski gear rental shops and inviting spots for a dram of whisky and hearty Highland fare.

Top ski resorts in Aviemore

Cairngorm Mountain Resort, The Lecht, and Glenshee.

Ski season

Mid-December to early April.

What not to miss

Ride the Cairngorm Funicular Railway for views of the Scottish Highlands.

Insider tip

For families and beginners, The Lecht offers excellent nursery slopes and gentle runs for newbies.

Best European ski resorts: FAQs

Is it cheaper to ski in Europe or the USA?

The cost of flights aside, skiing in Europe can be less expensive than the top ski resorts in the US due to more affordable lift passes, accommodations, and dining options. Resorts in Austria or Bulgaria typically cost significantly less than American counterparts like Aspen or Vail. Additionally, many European resorts provide expansive skiing at a lower price — Bulgaria and Andorra are particularly budget-friendly countries to consider.

Where is skiing cheapest in Europe?

Bulgaria, Andorra, and Bosnia are among the cheapest ski destinations in Europe, offering low-cost lift tickets and accommodations. Ski areas recognized for being good options for budget skiers include Livigno and Sestriere in Italy, Filzmoos and Ischgl In Austria, Borovets in Bulgaria, and Jasná Nízke Tatry in Slovakia.

What is the ski season in Europe?

The European ski season generally runs from late November to the end of April or early May, with peak ski conditions typically from January to March. High-altitude resorts like Val d’Isère often extend their seasons into late spring. For year-round skiing, consider glacier resorts like Hintertux in Austria and Saas-Fee and Zermatt in Switzerland.

What are the best ski resorts in Europe for beginners?

Most of the best ski towns in Europe have beginner-friendly slopes. Bansko in Bulgaria, Val d’Isère in France, Aviemore in Scotland, Pas de la Casa in Andorra, and St. Anton in Austria have excellent beginners’ and kids’ slopes and ski schools. The Jungfrau Region in Switzerland also has beginner slopes.

Where is the hardest place to ski in Europe?

The most difficult place to ski in Europe is widely considered to be Le Pas de Chavanette, aka the Swiss Wall. In the Portes du Soleil ski area on the border between France and Switzerland, this 0.8-mile run (1.3 km) features a steep 37-degree incline with challenging moguls, making it a true test for even the most experienced skiers. Other challenging resorts, though many will still have beginner areas, include Chamonix, Verbier, St. Anton, Avoriaz, Andermatt, Mayrhofen, and Courchevel.