Ski.com’s European Ski Resort Picks for Every Skier

Skiing in the European Alps is as dreamy as it sounds: deep powder snow, majestic peaks, lively après-ski in its birthplace, and traditional Alpine meals to fuel your day on the mountain—all with affordable lift tickets that let you spend more days on the slopes. For world-renowned skiing, iconic bucket-list destinations, and an unforgettable cultural experience, skiing in Europe should be at the top of your list. While you can hardly go wrong with any overseas destination, our Mountain Travel Experts have rounded up their top choices:

Chamonix-Mont Blanc, France 

Chamonix is the ultimate mountain destination for true alpine enthusiasts. While many European ski towns are focused on glitz and glamour, Chamonix offers a rugged, authentic mountain vibe. Home to five ski areas—Grands Montets, Les Houches, Le Tour/Balme, La Flégère, and Le Brévent—it has something for everyone, from beginner-friendly slopes to hike-to and off-piste challenges.

Chamonix has a rich history as the host of the first Winter Olympics in 1924 and is known as the oldest ski area in the French Alps. It’s also home to Mont Blanc, the highest peak in the Alps and Western Europe, standing at 15,767 feet. The famous cable car ride, the Aiguille du Midi from town up to Mont Blanc offers breathtaking views of the Alps, including distant peaks like the Matterhorn. Experienced skiers can also hire a guide to tackle the legendary Vallée Blanche, a thrilling 12.4-mile technical descent. 

With views of Mont Blanc, the charming town attracts passionate skiers and blends international flair with local charm. It features wine bars, après-ski spots, cozy cafes, fondue stops, high-end boutiques, and gear shops, offering a classic French Alps feel with a modern, edgy twist.

Courchevel, France

Courchevel, part of the world’s largest ski resort, offers more skiable terrain than many of North America’s largest resorts combined. Located in the heart of the Les 3 Vallées ski area, this vast resort spans 372 miles of interconnected pistes, catering to skiers of all levels—from first-timers to experts seeking challenging slopes. With its mix of snow-covered forests and expansive snowfields, Courchevel has something for everyone.

Surrounded by iconic peaks like Aiguille du Fruit, Vizelle, and Saulire, Courchevel is made up of six charming villages, each with its own unique mountain character, easily accessible by ski or complimentary shuttle. Visitors can choose from ultra-luxurious to family-friendly accommodations and enjoy a wide range of experiences, from local souvenir shops to designer boutiques, cozy cafes, and Michelin-starred dining. Courchevel masterfully blends world-class skiing, elite amenities, and traditional Savoyard charm, making it an unparalleled international ski destination.

Zermatt, Switzerland

If skiing through the Swiss Alps with views of the iconic Matterhorn isn’t on your dream-to-ski bucket list, we just may convince you to add it to the top. Though an internationally renowned resort, Zermatt offers a peaceful, crowd-free experience, thanks to its status as a destination resort. With 223 miles of interconnected pistes spanning two countries (Switzerland and Italy), exceptional snow conditions thanks to its high-altitude terrain and glacier, and stunning views of the Matterhorn, it's a skier’s paradise.

Beyond skiing, Zermatt features a charming car-free village filled with luxury hotels, alpine chalets, and gourmet restaurants. The pedestrian-only streets create a tranquil alpine atmosphere that enhances the town's old-world charm, with wooden chalets, cobblestone streets, and traditional alpine architecture alongside modern amenities. Visitors can explore boutique shops and art galleries and indulge in Swiss culinary delights like fondue and raclette. Whether enjoying outdoor sports, relaxing in serene spas, or simply taking in the breathtaking mountain views, Zermatt offers a perfect blend of adventure, luxury, and mountain serenity.

St. Anton, Austria

Nestled in the Austrian Alps, St. Anton am Arlberg is one of Europe’s most vibrant ski resorts, renowned for its lively après-ski scene, charming alpine village, and challenging terrain. Part of the Arlberg ski area, it offers over 200 miles of pistes, from smooth groomers to thrilling off-piste and backcountry runs. Known as the "cradle of alpine skiing" for its pivotal role in the sport's invention, St. Anton is praised as Austria’s top ski destination, with excellent snow conditions thanks to its high-alpine setting. 

In addition to exceptional skiing, St. Anton is famous for its après-ski culture. The resort is home to some of the liveliest après-ski spots in the Alps, with Krazy Kanguruh and MooserWirt being the go-to slopeside venues (and known for their rowdy atmosphere). The village itself combines traditional Tyrolean architecture with luxury hotels, alpine chalets, and vibrant bars and restaurants, making it the perfect spot for those looking to continue the party long after the last run. 

St. Moritz, Switzerland

St. Moritz, Switzerland’s iconic ski resort, is the perfect blend of charm, luxury, and alpine glamour. Often called the birthplace of alpine winter tourism, St. Moritz has been a premier destination since 1864. Boasting 300 days of sunshine per year, it’s one of the sunniest resorts in the Alps, with its "Champagne Climate" offering endless bluebird days. The resort offers a range of terrain, from beginner "nursery" runs to thrilling off-piste chutes and bowls, ensuring something for every skier to enjoy. With its varied terrain and exclusive atmosphere, St. Moritz is where adventure meets luxury.

The town itself is sophisticated and glamorous, known for its luxurious hotels, designer boutiques, and prestigious events like the St. Moritz Polo World Cup and White Turf horse races. With an array of upscale dining options and lively après-ski spots, it’s a top destination for high-end leisure. While St. Moritz has a reputation as a playground for the rich, it warmly welcomes all visitors. With exceptional weather, breathtaking views, and a wealth of activities both on and off the slopes, it offers a truly unforgettable experience.

Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy 

When most travelers think of Italy, they immediately imagine Rome, the Amalfi Coast, or the Tuscan wine country. However, Italy also boasts a world-class outdoor sports scene, and for an authentic Italian mountain experience, look no further than Cortina d'Ampezzo. Nestled in the stunning Dolomites, Cortina offers some of the best views and most unique mountain formations in the country. Known as the "Queen of the Dolomites," the resort has been a prominent destination since hosting the 1956 Winter Olympics, with the games returning in 2026. With over 75 miles of pistes catering to all skill levels, breathtaking mountain scenery, and unmatched adventure, Cortina blends outdoor thrills with Italian style.

Beyond skiing, the town itself offers a charming mix of Alpine and Italian architecture, with picturesque streets lined with boutique shops, art galleries, and exceptional Italian dining. As the Italians know how to celebrate, Cortina’s après-ski scene offers everything from relaxed drinks in cozy cafés to upscale lounges with stunning views. Just two hours from Venice, Cortina provides the perfect opportunity to experience multiple renowned destinations in one trip.

Ready to travel overseas with your skis?

Traveling overseas with your skis is one of the best ways to explore a new culture, refine your skills, and create lasting mountain memories. While major cities are popular overseas destinations, we recommend stepping outside and swapping skyscrapers for serene mountain views to truly disconnect from everyday life. There’s no better place to immerse yourself in nature. Ready to book your European mountain getaway? Contact our Mountain Travel Experts today—they’re ready to help you plan the perfect trip!