The 9 Best Places to Ski in Europe for the 2024 season
It’s no secret that Europe is home to some of the best ski resorts in the world. So, here we explore all the best places to ski in Europe for the 2024 season. Whether you’re looking for the largest ski area, best apres bars or the most budget friendly destination, we’ve got you covered! Read on for all you need to know.
When is Europe good for Skiing?
The main ski season in Europe runs from early December to late April. Some resorts will offer a longer season from late November to early May. However, this is heavily influenced by the weather and may not be guaranteed.
Skiing in Europe in December comes with the added bonus of fresh early season snowfall and quiet slopes. Peak season for skiing in Europe is January and February. Here you will enjoy a combination of heavy snowfall and bluebird, fresh powder days. Come March, spring skiing is in full swing and you can enjoy bluebird days and long après in the sun until the day draws to a close.
9 Best Places to Ski in Europe in 2024
1. Meribel – The Three Valleys, The Alps, France
Meribel is widely regarded as one of the best places to ski in France. If you ask us, it’s undoubtedly the best place to ski in Europe. We may of course be biassed. But, with picture perfect architecture and landscapes located at the heart of the world’s largest connected ski area and brimming with traditional alpine charm, it’s pretty tough to beat.
Ideally placed within close proximity to a number of airports and highways, travelling to Meribel couldn’t be easier.
There’s an abundance of options when it comes to accommodation, restaurants and the Meribel après scene truly has something for everyone.
Not to mention, unrivalled skiing and snow conditions. Your Three Valleys Lift Pass will grant you full and unlimited access to the entire 600 km ski area. Allowing endless hours of fun across neighbouring towns and villages including Courchevel and Val Thorens. There’s an array of slopes suitable for all capabilities in Meribel alone, making it one the very best places to ski in France for mixed groups. Take a closer look at the ski area here and to learn more about Meribel as whole, head over to our complete guide.
The facts:
Altitude: 1450m – 3000m
Ski area: 600km
Season: Start of December to late April
Nearest Transfer time: 1.5-2 hours from Chambery Airport
2. Zermatt – Switzerland
Zermatt is another of the best places to go skiing in Europe. Located at the base of the infamous Matterhorn in Switzerland, Zermatt is surrounded by breath-taking alpine scenery.
Zermatt is also known for its long season, typically ranging from November to May as well as, offering skiing across a range of terrains.
The facts:
Altitude: 1620m – 4000m
Ski area: 360km
Season: Late November – early May
Nearest Transfer time: 45 minutes – 1 hour from Geneva
3. Kitzbuhel – Austria
Kitzbühel is a charming town located in the Austrian Alps. Renowned as another of the best places to ski in Europe and most famous for hosting the Hahnenkamm Races.
Kitzbühel has a traditional Alpine village atmosphere with well-preserved mediaeval architecture and narrow streets. On the mountain, you will find a good range of slopes for beginners to advanced level skiers.
The facts:
Altitude: 800m – 2200m
Ski area: 230km
Season: Late November to early May
Nearest Transfer time: 1.5 hours from Innsbruk
4. Chamonix – France
Chamonix is another of the best places to ski in France. Chamonix is part of the larger ski area called Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and whilst offering a more modest 170km ski area, is infamous for its challenging slopes, beautiful scenery and cosmopolitan atmosphere.
The facts:
Altitude: 1035m – 3840m
Ski area: 170km
Season: Early December to late April
Nearest Transfer time: 1.5 hours from Geneva
5. Verbier – Switzerland
Verbier is widely known as one of the best places to go skiing in Switzerland and a must visit in Europe. Verbier is located within the Four Valleys ski area, known for its vast terrain and challenging slopes making it a great spot for advanced skiers. However, not so ideal for the more novice skier.
The facts:
Altitude: 1500m – 3300m
Ski area: 400km
Season: Late November to late April
Nearest Transfer time: 2 hours from Geneva
6. Courmayeur – Italy
Courmayeur is a popular ski resort with a rich cultural heritage. The resort is located in the Aosta Valley region of northern Italy, near the borders of France and Switzerland.
Courmayeur offers a range of slopes for varying abilities coupled with breathtaking views of surrounding peaks including Mont Blanc.
The facts:
Altitude: 1255m – 1755m
Ski area: 100km
Season: Late November to late April
Nearest Transfer time: 1.5 hours from Geneva
7. St Anton – Austria
Nestled in the stunning Arlberg mountain range, St Anton is best known for its vibrant apres scene.
In addition to its renowned apres scene, St Antons 300km ski area is equally well regarded as one of the best in Europe.
The pistes offer a moderate selection for a range of abilities. However, the area is also known for its sleep slopes and challenging off-piste terrain.
The facts:
Altitude: 1300m – 2030m
Ski area: 300km
Season: Late November to late April
Nearest Transfer time: 1.5 hours from Innsbruck
8. Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy
Located in the Dolomite Mountains, Cortina d’Ampezzo is famous for its outstanding natural beauty and cultural charm.
The extensive ski areas offers a range of slopes for all capabilities and is well known for its off piste and backcountry ski options.
The facts:
Altitude: 1300m – 2030m
Ski area: 1200km (To note, it is not possible to ski across this area without travelling by car or public transport)
Season: Late November to late April
Nearest Transfer time: 2 hours from Venice Marco Polo
9. Åre, Sweden
Åre is the largest and most popular ski destination in Sweden, offering a wide range of ski terrains.
Åre is most famous for its breathtaking scenery, with views of the Dolomites, coupled with some of the best skiing in Europe. Skiers can also enjoy night skiing on selected evenings throughout the season.
The facts:
Altitude: 380m – 1420m
Ski area: 100km
Season: Late November to May
Nearest Transfer time: 2 hours from Venice Marco Polo
How to choose the perfect European Ski Resort for You
The best ski resort in Europe is likely to be a little different for each and every group. However, here a some of the key things to consider:
Altitude
Ski Area
Ski slope levels
Average Snowfall
Budget vs Price
Season
Transfer times
Accommodation options
Non-skier and Off-slope activities
Final thoughts
When it comes to finding the best place to ski in Europe for 2024, there are numerous outstanding options to consider. And, one thing is for sure, you will be spoilt for choice!
Each destination offers its own unique charm, breathtaking scenery, and world-class ski facilities.The key to selecting the best place to ski in Europe for 2024 is determining what’s most important for you and your group.
If you’re looking for a resort that offers the perfect combination of all key factors, there’s truly nowhere better than Meribel. If you’re ready to book your next ski holiday, why not explore our 11 beautiful Meribel chalets and their remaining availability for 2023/24 now.
If you’d like to speak to a member of the team, do not hesitate to get in contact and they would be pleased to hear from you.