Best snow destinations in Europe
Best snow destinations in Europe
Classic glacier fields and heavy winter snowfall valleys in Europe
Europe has more ski resorts than any other continent, and many of them are old mountain villages where people lived long before anyone thought of lift tickets.
The Alps are the classic choice, with places like Zermatt, where you can ski below the Matterhorn, and Chamonix, which is known for steep runs and serious off-piste terrain. The Dolomites in Italy are a favorite for their pale, jagged peaks and long, scenic ski tours with lunch stops at mountain huts. If you want snow without the high prices, Bansko in Bulgaria and the Tatra Mountains in Slovakia and Poland are much cheaper. Up north, Rovaniemi in Finnish Lapland is popular with families who come for snowmobiles, husky rides and a visit to Santa.
Christmas and the February school holidays are the busiest weeks almost everywhere, so booking early or going in January can save a lot of money.
Lists by region
Region in Switzerland
Graubünden
Alpine wonderland with pristine lakes and trails
The region in eastern Switzerland holds famous resorts such as Davos and Arosa and Laax. Wide snowy valleys suit skiers and snowboarders alike. Trains on the Rhaetian Railway wind through the white mountains. Villages serve local dishes such as barley soup and nut cake. Sunny days are common in the high valleys.
City in Switzerland
St. Moritz
Alpine Glamour and Winter Magic
St. Moritz has hosted the Winter Olympics twice and has a long history as a luxury retreat. Winter tourism here dates to 1864. Skiers also enjoy horse racing on the frozen lake. Sunshine is common for most of the winter season. Fine hotels and cafes line the lakeside streets.
Town in Austria
Kitzbühel
Alpine Elegance Meets Outdoor Adventure
Kitzbühel is famous for the Hahnenkamm race on the steep Streif downhill. The medieval old town has painted houses and elegant shops. Broad runs suit skiers of every level. Cable cars reach the surrounding peaks and link the village with nearby ski areas. Visitors can watch the world's best racers each January.
Town in France
Alpe d'Huez
Legendary Cycling and Alpine Skiing Paradise
Sunshine is plentiful on this high plateau above the Romanche valley. The Sarenne is one of the longest black runs in the Alps at about sixteen kilometres. Lifts reach a glacier at over three thousand metres. A lively village of shops and bars sits at the base.
Country
Finland
Land of midnight sun
Long snowy winters bring ski slopes and frozen lakes to many parts of the country. Cross country trails wind through forests of pine and birch. Wooden saunas wait after a day out in the cold. Huskies and reindeer pull sleds across the white landscape. Winter visitors can also try ice fishing.
City in Austria
Innsbruck
Alpine Peaks and Imperial Streets
The Alps rise right behind this Tyrolean city and its colourful old town. A funicular and cable car climb from the centre to the Nordkette ridge. Several ski areas lie within a short bus ride. The city hosted the Winter Olympics in 1964 and 1976.
Valley in Austria
Ötztal
Majestic alpine valley with crystal lakes
The Ötztal valley in Tyrol leads to high glaciers and famous resorts such as Sölden. Two peaks above three thousand metres can be reached by lift. The ski season starts early each autumn on the glacier. Alpine huts and small farms dot the quiet side valleys.
Village in France
Tignes
Year-Round Glacier Skiing Paradise
A glacier above the resort allows skiing on snow from autumn into summer. The resort shares the huge Espace Killy area with Val d'Isère. A reservoir lake at the base freezes each winter. Modern apartments sit close to the lifts and offer quick access to the slopes.
Town in France
Morzine
Alpine charm meets year-round adventure
Morzine sits in the Portes du Soleil area that crosses into Switzerland. The old village keeps a traditional Savoyard look with slate roofs and wooden chalets. Tree lined runs give shelter on windy days. Families and snowboarders love the lively cafes and ski schools. The area has about six hundred kilometres of runs.
Town in Switzerland
Verbier
Alpine Paradise with Epic Views
Verbier sits in the Four Valleys area in the Swiss Alps. Wide off piste bowls attract expert skiers and freeriders. The Mont Fort area has high peaks and views towards Mont Blanc. The village has lively bars and a long season of events. Cable cars rise quickly from the village to the main slopes.
Village in Austria
Lech and Zürs am Arlberg
Alpine luxury meets skiing heritage
These two villages belong to the vast Arlberg ski area in western Austria. Snowfall is heavy and reliable through the winter. Lech keeps a traditional look with old farmhouses and elegant hotels. Runs link with St Anton and form one of the largest networks in the Alps.
Village in France
Val Thorens
Europe's highest alpine ski paradise
Val Thorens is the highest ski resort in Europe at about two thousand three hundred metres. High altitude means snow from late November into spring. The resort links with the rest of the Three Valleys. Modern lodgings stand beside the lifts and bars fill at night.
National Park in Slovakia
Low Tatras National Park
Slovakia’s Wild Ridges and Hidden Caves
The Low Tatras have gentle ridges and long forested valleys in central Slovakia. Jasná is the main resort and has modern lifts and wide runs. Cross country trails cross quiet meadows. Visitors can also explore caves and small alpine villages. Hot springs at Bešeňová offer a warm soak afterwards.
Region in Finland
Lapland
Northern lights and midnight sun
Snow covers the Arctic landscape of northern Finland from late autumn until spring. Visitors can ride husky sleds and snowmobiles across frozen lakes. Glass igloos and log cabins let guests watch the northern lights from bed. Reindeer farms offer sleigh rides through quiet forests. Winter here lasts about six months.
City in Norway
Tromsø
Arctic Lights, Culture and Wild Beauty
Tromsø sits far above the Arctic Circle and is famed for the northern lights. Winter trips include husky sledding and whale watching in the fjords. A cable car rises to the Storsteinen viewpoint above town. The Arctic Cathedral has a striking glass facade and hosts concerts.
Region in France
Les Arcs
Alpine skiing paradise with views
Les Arcs sits in the Paradiski area in the French Alps and links with La Plagne by cable car. Villages at different heights sit right on the snow. Many lodgings have ski in and ski out access. The resort offers runs for every level and long sunny days.
Village in France
Méribel
Heart of Three Valleys ski paradise
Méribel sits in the centre of the Three Valleys in the French Alps. Wooden chalets with stone roofs give the village a traditional look. Pistes of every level lead down through pine forests. The resort hosted the alpine ski events of the 1992 Olympics. Cafes on the slopes serve hot chocolate.
Village in France
Val-d'Isère
Legendary Alpine Skiing with Village Charm
Val d'Isère shares the Espace Killy ski area with Tignes. The village has an old stone church and wooden chalets near the slopes. Ski runs include the famous Face de Bellevarde used in World Cup races. The snow season often lasts from November to May.
City in Norway
Lillehammer
Olympic legacy meets alpine serenity
The town hosted the 1994 Winter Olympics and still welcomes winter sports fans. Nearby Hafjell and Kvitfjell have slopes used in the Games. The Olympic bobsled track and ski jumps stand above the town. Cross country trails cover the forested hills. Visitors can also ride a sled down the old Olympic track.
Town in Norway
Trysil
Norway’s Biggest Ski and Adventure Playground
Trysil is the largest ski resort in Norway and lies near the Swedish border. Wide slopes and uncrowded lifts suit families and beginners. The area has a gentle snow season that lasts into spring. Nearby forests offer cross country trails and husky rides. The resort keeps a relaxed Nordic feel.
Valley in France
Rhône Valley
Lush vineyards and alpine vistas
The Valais region holds famous resorts such as Zermatt and Verbier and Saas-Fee. Snowy peaks rise above terraces of vineyards in the valley. Trains and buses link the villages and lifts. Visitors can taste local wines after a day on the slopes. Sunny slopes and mild days make the valley a pleasant stop.
Town in Austria
Ischgl
Alpine Thrills and Après-Ski Legends
Ischgl links with Samnaun in Switzerland and offers a huge network of runs above the village. Snow is reliable thanks to the high altitude. Visitors enjoy a lively après ski scene in the evenings. Big name concerts open and close the winter season. Restaurants on the mountain serve local Tyrolean dishes.
Village in Austria
St. Anton am Arlberg
Cradle of alpine skiing paradise
This village is known as the cradle of alpine skiing. Steep off piste terrain attracts experts from around the world. The Arlberg ski area links with Lech and Zürs. Lively après ski bars open at the base of the slopes. Huts on the mountain serve warm meals.
Town in France
Courchevel
Luxury alpine paradise year-round
Courchevel belongs to the giant Three Valleys ski area in the French Alps. Its upper villages have luxury hotels and Michelin starred restaurants. Wide groomed runs suit skiers of every level. Several lifts leave directly from the village and link with neighbouring valleys. Many visitors arrive by helicopter or private jet.
Mountain Range in Italy
Dolomites
Majestic peaks echoing alpine serenity
Pale limestone peaks glow pink at sunset above the snowy valleys. The Dolomiti Superski pass covers many resorts with one ticket. Mountain huts serve polenta and strudel on sunny terraces. UNESCO lists the range as a World Heritage site. Visitors ski from village to village in a single day.
Town in Italy
Cortina d'Ampezzo
Dolomite Peaks, Alpine Glamour, Adventure
Pink Dolomite peaks rise around this elegant mountain town. Skiers can follow the Sella Ronda route and use the Olympia runs used in the 1956 Winter Games. Fashionable boutiques and cafes fill the main street. The town also hosted events of the 2026 Winter Olympics.
National Park in Switzerland
Swiss National Park
Majestic alpine wilderness, untouched and serene
The park in Graubünden is the oldest national park in the Alps. Snow covers the quiet trails in winter and some can be used for snowshoe walks. Visitors may spot ibex or red deer on the slopes. The area has no ski lifts and keeps a peaceful feel.
Town in Germany
Garmisch-Partenkirchen
Alpine town below Germany's highest peak
Germany's highest peak Zugspitze rises above this Bavarian town. A cable car and cog railway lead to a glacier ski area near the summit. The town hosted the 1936 Winter Olympics. Painted houses and traditional inns line the quiet streets. Hiking trails and frozen gorges offer quiet winter walks beyond the slopes.
Town in Austria
Zell am See
Lakes, Mountains and Alpine Charm
Zell am See sits beside a lake and lies beneath the Schmittenhöhe ski area. A nearby glacier at Kaprun allows skiing through much of the year. Frozen shores and lakeside paths are popular for winter walks. The old town has painted houses and small cafes.
Town in Switzerland
Saas-Fee
Glaciers, Peaks and Alpine Serenity
Saas-Fee is a car free village surrounded by thirteen peaks over four thousand metres. A glacier above town keeps snow reliable for much of the year. Electric taxis carry visitors through narrow lanes. A metro train runs deep inside the mountain to a high viewpoint.
Country
Sweden
Where nature meets modern design
Sweden has reliable snow across its northern mountains and forests. Skiers enjoy resorts such as Åre and Riksgränsen. Dog sleds and snowmobiles cross frozen lakes in Lapland. Cosy cafes serve cardamom buns and strong coffee. Many resorts have family friendly ski schools and gentle slopes. Northern towns hold winter festivals.
Town in Sweden
Åre
Sweden’s Alpine Playground, Year-Round
Sweden's best known ski area lies beside a frozen lake in the mountains of Jämtland. Wide runs fall from the summit of Åreskutan. Skiers can also try night skiing under floodlights. The village has cosy cafes serving cinnamon buns after a day on the snow.
City in Norway
Kristiansand
Coastal charm meets vibrant cultural scene
Cold months bring a quiet winter calm to the southern Norwegian coast. Families enjoy ice skating and sledding in the nearby hills. Cross country trails lead through forests inland from the city. Cafes serve hot waffles and coffee near the harbour. Short days and soft snow give the area a calm feel.
Outer Territory in Norway
Svalbard
Arctic wilderness at Earth's edge
Svalbard lies far north in the Arctic Ocean and is covered in snow for much of the year. Visitors can ride snowmobiles and dog sleds across the ice. Polar night and the northern lights fill the winter sky. Guided trips may spot reindeer and Arctic foxes.
Mountain
Pyrenees
Where France meets Spain majestically
The Pyrenees form a snowy wall between Spain and France. Resorts such as Baqueira Beret offer wide runs and powder snow. Stone villages nestle in deep valleys beneath the peaks. Prices are often lower than in the Alps. Local cuisine includes hearty mountain stews and cheeses.
Town in France
Les Deux Alpes
Year-Round Glacier Skiing and Adventure
A glacier at over three thousand metres keeps skiing open through winter and into summer. The resort sits in the Écrins mountains above Grenoble. A big terrain park draws snowboarders and freestyle skiers. The village has lively bars and restaurants along its main street. The resort also has a big snow park.
City in Finland
Rovaniemi
Santa's Arctic Wonderland
Rovaniemi sits on the Arctic Circle and is known as the official hometown of Santa Claus. Visitors can cross the Arctic Circle line at Santa Claus Village. Husky rides and reindeer sleds leave from nearby farms. The northern lights often appear over the snowy forests.
Village in Sweden
Riksgränsen
Arctic skiing under midnight sun
Riksgränsen sits in northern Sweden near the Norwegian border. Its slopes stay open late in spring with midnight sun skiing in May and June. Steep off piste descents and open bowls attract experienced skiers. Trains from Kiruna and Narvik stop in the village. The season runs into early summer.
Town in Switzerland
Zermatt
Alpine Magic and the Matterhorn
The Matterhorn rises above this car free village in the Swiss Alps. Ski areas reach a glacier above three thousand eight hundred metres. Horse drawn sleighs and electric taxis move visitors through town. Mountain huts serve raclette and fondue on sunny terraces. The village looks lovely under fresh snow.
Mountain in Slovakia
Vysoké Tatry
Slovakia’s Majestic Alpine Playground
Tatra National Park was founded in Slovakia in 1948. Gerlachovský štít at 2,655 metres is the highest point in the country. The range has 29 peaks above 2,500 metres. Resorts such as Štrbské Pleso, Starý Smokovec and Tatranská Lomnica serve winter sports, with Poprad as the gateway.
Region in Austria
Tyrol
Alpine paradise in all seasons
Steep mountains and deep valleys make this Austrian state a winter playground. Famous resorts such as Kitzbühel and Ischgl and St Anton fill its map. Villages have painted houses and onion domed churches. Warm inns serve hearty dishes such as cheese dumplings. Several villages hold Christmas markets before the season opens.
Town in Italy
Livigno
A high-altitude haven for adventurers
Livigno is a high valley near the Swiss border with a long snow season. The area is duty free so shopping is popular. Slopes run on both sides of the valley with snow cannons and modern lifts. Families enjoy the sunny runs and friendly village life.
Village in Switzerland
Wengen
Car-Free Alpine Bliss and Epic Views
Wengen is a car free village that can only be reached by cog train. Skiers have views across the valley towards the Eiger and the Jungfrau. The Lauberhorn race is one of the oldest and longest World Cup downhills. Mountain restaurants serve rösti and hot chocolate.
City in France
Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Alpine thrills beneath Mont Blanc
The town sits beneath Mont Blanc and is a classic home of alpine climbing. The Aiguille du Midi cable car rises to more than three thousand eight hundred metres. The Vallée Blanche is a famous off piste glacier run. Wooden chalets and mountain restaurants line the streets below.
Town in Switzerland
Interlaken
Adventure, Lakes and Alpine Magic
Interlaken sits between two lakes and serves as a gateway to the Jungfrau region. Trains climb to Jungfraujoch at about three thousand four hundred metres. Snowy trails and sledding runs lie above Grindelwald and Wengen. Visitors often return to the valley for fondue in the evening.
Ski Resort in Ukraine
Bukovel
Ukraine’s Premier Winter Wonderland
Bukovel is the largest ski resort in Ukraine and lies in the Carpathian Mountains. Wide slopes and modern lifts serve beginners as well as confident skiers. Wooden lodges and cafes sit close to the pistes. Snow cannons keep the runs open through the winter months.
Town in Bulgaria
Bansko
Bulgaria’s Ski Capital with Alpine Soul
A gondola built in 2003 takes skiers from the town to the Banderishka Poliana base area. The lift-served summit is at 2,600 metres. The area has 75 kilometres of runs and 14 lifts and drags. This town at the foot of the Pirin Mountains hosted FIS World Cup races in 2009 and 2011.
Town in Austria
Bad Ischl
Historic spa town nestled among alpine vineyards
Emperor Franz Joseph spent his summers in this spa town in the Salzkammergut. Snowy forests and frozen lakes surround it in winter. Cross country trails and small ski areas lie close by. The Zauner cafe serves the famous Zaunerstollen chocolate pastry. The town also has a pretty spa park along the river.
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