The Best Ski Resorts in Europe: 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards
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For our 38th annual Readers’ Choice Awards, survey voters weighed in on their favorite ski resorts in Europe. Zermatt held on to its number one ranking, while Levi in Finland broke into the top 15 for the first time. Italy’s resorts have been gearing up for the 2026 Olympic Winter Games with new enhancements, and readers have taken note, voting four Italian ski areas into the ranking this year. Here are the ski resorts that you loved most this year, for both their excellent après ski scenes, exceptional hotels, and serious slopes.
This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.
Fabio Malerba/500px/Getty20. Bormio Ski, Italy
This medieval mountain village in northern Italy is known for its high-altitude activities and super technical World Cup ski course, the Stelvio. Bormio ski area lays claim to the greatest skiable vertical drop in Italy, with lifts that whisk skiers up 5,905 feet. Most of the mountain’s runs are geared toward beginner or intermediate skiers, yet start way up in the clouds, above 6,560 feet, which means you’re guaranteed stellar alpine views. The exception is the legendary Stelvio, which will be the official venue of the Winter Olympics in 2026. Freestyle fans should check out the new Jungle Snowpark. After a day on the slopes, head to Bormio’s historic thermal baths for a soak.
Where to stay: Hotel La Genzianella is a five-minute walk from the resort and features pinewood suites and chalets, a complimentary buffet breakfast, and a fabulous spa.
Stats: 14 lifts for 17 runs covering 31 miles. The Bormio Skipass starts at $65 and allows you to ski three areas, including Santa Caterina and Cima Piazzi-San Colombano.
Cober Schneider/Getty19. Andermatt, Switzerland
When an Egyptian billionaire opened five-star The Chedi Andermatt hotel (more on that later) in 2013, it turned a relatively unknown ski area tucked between Zermatt and St. Moritz into an international ski destination. The largest ski area in the heart of Switzerland has such varied and vast terrain you never have to repeat a run. Gemsstock is a steep, free-riding playground while neighboring Nätschen is laced with cruise-y runs. And if you want something more mellow, you can easily link to the family-friendly slopes of Sedrun. When you legs get tired from all the skiing, the Matterhorn Gotthard railway (also included in the ticket) will take you back to Andermatt.
Where to Stay: The extravagant Chedi Andermatt has 123 spacious rooms and suites all boasting fireplaces, Hästens mattresses, and large balconies. Set aside plenty of time to soak in the spa’s hydrotherapy zone and indulge in the 16-foot-high, glass-walled, climate-controlled Cheese Tower or The Japanese, the hotel’s recently awarded Michelin-star restaurant, the first Japanese restaurant in a 5-star Swiss hotel to receive a second Michelin star.
Stats: Average price for a one-day lift ticket is $82; the Andermatt-Sedrun-Disentis ski region comprises 33 lifts for 85 marked pistes; on the Epic Pass.
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18. Val Gardena, Italy
Val Gardena is one of 12 ski resorts that make up the expansive Dolomiti Superski, which connects skiers and riders to nearly 750 miles of slopes including the region’s famous, 25-mile, lift connected circuit, which can be completed in a day. The villages of Ortisei, Santa Cristina, and Selva Val Gardena make up the Val Gardena area. Skiers come here for the groomers, but there are some fantastic off-piste descents, including the Forcella Mezdì and the Forcella del Pordoi. Outfitter Dolomite Mountains organizes on- or off-piste ski safaris that explore the entire region. Skiers stay overnight in rifugios—traditional mountain huts—and dine at sensational on-mountain restaurants like Emilio Comici.
Where to stay: Family-friendly Adler Spa Resort Dolomiti has a kids’ club, top-notch spa, and Mediterranean-influenced restaurant. Third generation, family-run, ski-in/ski-out Hotel Freina is located directly at the foot of the Ciampinoi piste in the middle of the Sellaronda. Granvara Relais & Spa Hotel wins points for its five-star service and unbeatable views of the towering mountains of Sassolungo.
Stats: There are 79 lifts for nearly 110 miles of slopes. One-day lift ticket from $87; on the Ikon Pass.
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17. Crans-Montana, Switzerland
It doesn’t have the cachet of Zermatt or Verbier, but that’s one of the many reasons skiers love under-the-radar Crans-Montana. Its 90 miles of slopes are spread across a south-facing plateau in Switzerland’s Valais canton, which means they’re almost always sun-soaked. And the resort features 15 on-mountain restaurants, such as rowdy Amadaeus 2006 and Cabane des Violettes, with terraces so you can work on your tan and take in the dazzling alpine views. Freestyle fans will find one of the best snowparks in Switzerland, featuring an Olympic-size halfpipe.
Where to stay: Hostellerie du Pas de l’Ours is a member of Relais & Châteaux. Guarda Golf Hotel & Residences has a prime location in the center of town.
Stats: There are 24 lifts for 61 runs. One-day lift ticket from $82 on the Epic Pass.
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16. Levi, Finland
Located in the Arctic Circle in the wilderness of Lapland, Levi is Finland's leading ski resort with 44 slopes, four snow parks, and five ski touring routes. Families love the dedicated areas Kids' Land and Leevilandia, the beginner-friendly area that boasts a snow tubing run, a tobogganing slope, and an indoor playground area. Levi’s slopes are popular among world-class alpine skiers, as well, hosting World Cup races. Beyond the slopes, snowy adventures are endless from snowmobiling and ice fishing to cross-country skiing and viewing the Northern Lights.
Where to stay: Levi Spirit Luxury Villas & Resort is less than one mile from the nearest ski slope and provides unique experiences ranging from reindeer sledding and husk safaris.
Stats: There are 26 lifts for 44 slopes. One-day lift for $59.
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15. Corvara - Alta Badia, Italy
This valley extraordinarily combines the beauty of the Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with Ladin traditions and culture, as well as exceptional slopes that connect to the massive Dolomiti Superski area, including the Gran Risa slopes where Ski World Cup races are held each year. This season the new Braia Fraida lift will connect Corvara to San Cassiano. The cuisine is just as appealing as the skiing, with everything from Michelin-star gastronomic temples to humble, family-run mountain huts set at 6,500 feet. Outfitter Dolomite Mountains can curate culinary ski safari that showcase the best slopes and chefs. A new sommelier on the slopes program pairs skiers with an instructor and wine expert and tastings are hosted at mountain huts including Ütia Bioch and Club Moritzino.
Where to stay: The 20-room boutique Hotel Recort opens this December.
Stats: There are 53 lifts for 101 slopes. One-day lift ticket from $87; on the Ikon Pass.
Guillaume Marques/Unsplash14. Chamonix-Mont Blanc, France
Chamonix’s expansive backcountry and gnarly terrain make it a bucket-list destination for serious skiers. Host to the first winter Olympics in 1924, the pedestrian-friendly town oozes alpine charm and, despite the mountain’s extreme reputation, there are plenty of beginner and intermediate runs. Riding the Aiguille du Midi, the highest cable car in Western Europe, is a must simply for the views. From the top, experienced skiers can hire a guide (Chamonix has the world’s oldest and largest guiding organization) and schuss down the legendary Vallée Blanche, 12.4-mile glacier descent in the heart of Mont-Blanc Massif.
Where to stay: La Folie Douce Hotel has a hip vibe, a lively après scene and an unbeatable location in the heart of Chamonix, with a ski lift steps from the front door. For over-the-top luxury, book a stay at Hameau Albert 1er. The five-star hotel has 33 rooms, two suites and two stand-alone chalets and a Michelin-star restaurant.
Stats: There are 67 lifts for 119 runs. One-day lift ticket from $72; on the Ikon Pass.
DEA/ALBERT CEOLAN/Getty13. Zell am See-Kaprun, Austria
The panoramic views of Lake Zell are just one of many reasons to hit the slopes of Zell am See-Kaprun. Located 60 miles southwest of Salzburg, this picturesque ski area includes the sun blessed Schmittenhöhe resort and the Kitzsteinhorn, Salzburg’s only glacier ski resort. The former caters to families with its excellent ski schools, fun slopes, and snowparks. The latter is a destination for freeriders and ski tour enthusiasts. The Alpincenter restaurant, perched at 8,038 feet on Kitzsteinhorn, will debut a fresh look this season, but don’t worry, the beloved Kaiserschmarrn hasn’t changed.
Where to stay: Family-run Hotel Kaprunerhof is a short walk from the center of Kaprun and has cozy, chalet-inspired rooms and a restaurant specializing in regional fare like Pinzgau beef. Nikolaus by Avenida has 31 apartment-style suites, all with private saunas.
Stats: 51 lifts for more than 250 miles of slopes. One-day lift ticket from $76.
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12. Megève, France
Megève may not have the hard-partying reputation of, say, St. Moritz, or the breadth of sporty-centric Courchevel, but it still has plenty to tout. Two ski areas are covered with nearly 250 miles of runs linked by recently updated cable cars. Skiers can choose from 60 on-mountain restaurants, like the excellent La Ferme de Mon Père. A charming, car-free city center featuring an open-air ice rink, intact cobbled streets, horse-drawn sleighs, as well as a number of smart boutiques makes Megève a family favorite.
Where to stay: The resort's primary patrons—streams of well-heeled Parisians looking to escape the city—reserve rooms at Relais & Châteaux Flocons de Sel, or the Les Fermes de Marie, a tiny mountain chalet where the rooms have fur throws, wood-beamed ceilings, and stone accent walls. Four Seasons Hotel Megève and 12-room Le Chalet, from Zannier Hotels, both offer five-star service.
Stats: One-day lift tickets from $60; there are 112 lifts for 231 runs for the Evasion-Mont Blanc ski area.
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11. Gstaad, Switzerland
A traffic-free town center, including a promenade lined with luxury boutiques, and fairy-tale Swiss architecture make this one of Europe’s most traditional winter destinations. Charming chalet villages adorn the entrances to the various ski areas. A range of superb slopes make Gstaad accessible for all and gourmands appreciate Michelin-starred restaurants, such as the Sommet. Glacier 3000 Neues restaurant, newly designed by Swiss architect Mario Botta, has the best terrace on the slopes with panoramic views of the Matterhorn.
Where to stay: We love the Alpina Gstaad, constructed of wood salvaged from old farmhouses and locally quarried limestone. With two pools, a Six Senses Spa, and movie theater, it’s become a celebrity favorite. The Hotel Ultima Gstaad is fresh off a year-long renovation that includes an expanded spa and fitness area.
Stats: One-day lift tickets between $53 and $84; there are 41 lifts for nearly 125 miles of runs.
Nora Gi/Unsplash10. Innsbruck, Austria
If you want to bag peaks while also getting a dose of urban energy and culture, look no further than Innsbruck. The capital of Tirol has hosted the Olympics twice (in 1964 and 1976) and is surrounded by 13 ski resorts (Kühtai, Axamer Lizum, Muttereralm, Patscherkofel, Nordkette, Oberperfuss Cable Cars, Hochoetz, Schlick 2000, Glungezer, Bergeralm, Serlesbahnen Mieders, Elferbahnen Neustift, Stubai Glacier) each with its own personality. Stubai Glacier is Austria’s largest glacier resort area and often stays open through May, Axamer Lizum features challenging championship runs, and Schlick 2000 is a family favorite for its ski school and progressive terrain. Collectively called Olympia Ski World, the massive area can all be explored with just one ticket, the Ski Plus City Pass, which includes non-ski activities like tobogganing and bobsledding an Olympic run. During the Christmas season, you won’t want to miss exploring the charming holiday markets in the surrounding villages.
Where to stay: The 120-room Stage 12 hotel is set right in the old quarter of the city and is an easy bus ride to the resort. Ski-in/ski-out Mooshaus in Kühtai is known for its infinity pool in the Alps, a doting kids club, and fantastic service.
Stats: 111 lifts and cable cars and with just over 190 miles of runs. Two-day pass from $144.
Getty9. Lech Zürs, Austria
Lech Zürs may lack the bling of areas like St. Moritz and Cortina d’Ampezzo, but that’s part of its charm. Behind traditional farmhouse facades you’ll find chic boutiques, art galleries, and stylish hotels and chalets. The village of 1,600 may be tiny, but it boasts the highest density of award-winning restaurants in the world (Rote Wand Chef’s Table at Rote Wand Gourmet Hotel is a must). And of course there’s the draw of its excellent snowfall and the famed White Ring, a circuit of nearly 14 miles that links Lech, Zürs, Zug, and Oberlech. Two modern new cable cars make the slopes even more accessible this season.
Where to stay: Five-star, family-run Hotel Almhof Schneider is the epitome of Alpine elegance, with a serious art collection, serene spa, and a 25,000-bottle wine cellar. Boutique stay Hotel Kristiania was originally established by Olympic skier Othmar Schneider, and his family continues the hotel’s legacy of hospitality.
Stats: Part of the Arlberg, Austria’s largest inter-linked ski area, 85 lifts and cable cars can access more than 180 miles of marked slopes and 120-plus miles of backcountry runs. One-day lift ticket from $80; on the Epic Pass.
Radu Cadar/Getty8. Saalbach, Austria
One of four resorts that make up the Skicircus Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn, among the most expansive lift-linked ski areas in the world, Saalbach is known for its old-world Tyrolean village and lively après scene. The combined super resort offers something for everyone, from challenging terrain that has hosted the Freeride World Tour to family-friendly groomers. Ambitious skiers can attempt “the Challenge,” a 40-mile circuit of downhill runs connected by 32 lifts, covering 40,682 vertical feet. On average, it takes around seven hours without a lunch break.
Where to stay: A renovated 14th-century estate-turned-boutique hotel in Hinterglemm, Weisergut is steps from the Zwölferkogel Cable Car. Each of the 24 suites has its own balcony or terrace, plus there’s a fantastic slow food restaurant and a bathhouse with an infinity pool. In Saalbach, the Alpinresort Sport & Spa, a luxe all-inclusive right near the resort center and Schattberg X-press lift, has been rebranded as ValSaa Alpine Resort and had a new restaurant and ski lockers.
Stats: One-day lift ticket from $64. The interconnected resorts feature nearly 170 miles of slopes, linked by 70 lifts and dotted with 60 ski huts and a freestyle terrain park.
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7. Val d’Isère, France
Though some bemoan the crowds and prices at this mega resort, Val d'Isère remains an experienced skier’s paradise. The area is home to exciting and high-quality, snow-sure slopes (and as backup, the largest artificial snow making plant in Europe) that are easily linked to neighboring Tignes, forming one of the biggest ski areas in France. An excellent dining scene and hard-partying nightlife make a stay here a true holiday in every sense of the word. This season, skiers have multiple new dining options on and off the slopes such as L’Alpin in the village and three new eateries atop the Bellevarde, including a brasserie, cafe, and Cocotte, an intimate 55-seat dining room specializing in traditional fare. Airelles Val d’Isère is the hot spot for après ski with its expansive terrace featuring DJ sets.
Where to stay: Airelles Val d’Isère opens its first slopeside chalet this winter. The 215-room Club Med Val d’Isère is the first Club Med Exclusive Collection resort in the Alps. We also love the chic atmosphere of Airelles Val d'Isère, Hotel Le K2 Chogori, and Le Refuge de Solaise, the highest hotel in France.
Stats: One-day lift tickets are $70 for Tignes and Val d’ Isère. The linked Tignes–Val d’ Isère ski area has 163 runs connected by 75 lifts, plus two skiable glaciers and two snow parks. Ski passes are free for children under age 8.
Getty6. Verbier, Switzerland
Verbier is considered one of the Alps' most glam resorts with high-profile stays including Richard Branson's luxury chalet The Lodge. The mountain’s mix of novice and expert pistes, as well as backcountry terrain and nearly 14 miles of groomed Nordic trails, attracts a youthful, sporty clientele to the 4 Vallées. This season, the legendary Chalet Carlsberg is being reinvented as L’Inkontro, a restaurant inspired by culture of the Bagnard region, and local chef David Adam will debut A Table, a six-seat restaurant in a former sheepfold. Verbier’s nightlife is as popular as its pistes. Dance the night away at the Farm Club, an iconic institution founded in 1971, or Farinet, a favorite of the Royal family.
Where to stay: There are the luxe chalets mentioned above, but the W Verbier has the best location in town, close to ski school meeting spots and opposite the Médran gondola. Hotel Cordée des Alpes is another great boutique option with an award-winning restaurant.
Stats: One-day lift ticket from $82 on the Epic Pass. There are 80 lifts for more than 250 miles of runs across the 4 Vallées ski area.
Giacomo Maestri/Getty5. Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy
This historic town, carved into the valley of the Boite river, grew into a must-visit ski destination following the 1956 Winter Olympics, and it will once again host the Games in 2026. Just two hours from Venice, the town isn't too remote—though the towering ring of surrounding Dolomites might make it feel otherwise—and its low-key vibe (a far remove from the flashy, see-and-be-seen culture of other comparable ski towns) continues to attract the likes of George Clooney. Part of the massive Dolomiti Superski, Cortina connects skiers and riders to nearly 750 miles of slopes. And Nordic fans can access Europe’s biggest network of cross-country trails.
Where to stay: The intimate Hotel de Len has just 23 rooms and a fabulous rooftop spa that overlooks the valley. Cristallo, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, a lavish Belle Époque hotel about a mile from the gondola, is closed for a refurbishment and will reopen under the Mandarin Oriental flag in 2025.
Stats: One-day Dolomiti Superski pass from $78; on the Ikon Pass. There are 33 lifts for 83 runs.
Ingolf Pompe 14/Alamy4. Kitzbühel, Austria
Just two hours from Munich, Austria’s most popular holiday resort has it all: posh hotels; a picturesque 750-year-old city center; a lively après-ski scene along quaint, cobblestone streets; and unsurpassed skiing that includes 11 renowned ski schools and the most demanding course on the World Cup circuit. With more than 60 mountain huts and restaurants, there are plenty of delicious options to refuel, or lounge leisurely over lunch on the slopes.
Where to stay: Hotel Schloss Lebenberg, a medieval hillside castle overlooking the village that earns high marks for its stellar service, dining room, and ornate, Gothic-style décor.
Stats: 58 lifts for 96 runs covering 145 miles. One-day lift tickets from $59; on the Ikon Pass.
Stefano Politi Markovina/Alamy3. St. Moritz, Switzerland
The oldest winter holiday resort in the world is as elegant and exclusive as it gets. As if St. Moritz wasn't already blessed enough at nearly 6,000 feet above sea level, the sun shines 322 days a year, pairing with the dry air for what’s known as a “Champagne climate.” But it’s the world-class hotels and restaurants, chic shopping, and excellent skiing on- and off-piste that draw celebrities and royalty alike. The iconic alpine city is equally famous for its unique events on the frozen lake St. Moritz: the Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz, the White Turf horse racing and the ICE car show. Be sure to make a reservation at Amaru. Acclaimed British artist Luke Edward Hall and chef Claudia Canessa join creative forces to put their eclectic touch on this Peruvian restaurant that opens this winter at Kulm Hotel.
Where to stay: A room at alpine grand dame Badrutt's Palace Hotel, which has been indulging A-listers since 1896, or at the recently renovated Kulm Hotel—one of our Gold List favorites—can do no wrong. With the opening of Grace La Margna in December, St. Moritz finally offers a five star hotel 365 days a year.
Stats: One-day lift tickets range from $45 to $100; there are 58 lifts for 88 runs.
Buzz Pictures/Alamy2. Courchevel, France
Within the largest ski area in the world—the Three Valleys—Courchevel and its six interconnected villages form a glittering, multi-level resort, where celebs and well-to-do merrymakers come to ski, unwind, and shop at more than 100 upscale boutiques. A dedicated kids' ski area, the Children’s Village, offers more than seven acres of terrain so young ones can easily progress. The region is known for its exceptional snowfall and Courchevel 1850 is so high there are still loads of snow in April. Be warned, it’s hard to go elsewhere once you’ve gotten a taste for Courchevel’s heated pavements and impressive, Michelin-starred dining scene.
Where to stay: Of the 50 five-star hotels in France, 15 of them are here—including Aman Le Mélézen (among the Readers' Choice Awards 50 Best Resorts of 2022) L'Apogée Courchevel, both located in tony Courchevel 1850. Cheval Blanc Courchevel is the epitome of ski-in/ski-out luxury, boasting a slope-side terrace featuring a menu by Michelin-decorated chef Yannik Alléno.
Stats: One-day lift ticket for the 372-plus miles of pistes in the Three Valleys $63. Courchevel has 46 lifts for 102 runs.
Getty1. Zermatt, Switzerland
Zermatt, surrounded by the Alps’ tallest peaks, has 223 miles of runs in four huge ski areas—some at an altitude of over 10,000 feet, so snow here lingers well beyond the winter season. This enchanting, alpine village lies at the foot of the Matterhorn, Switzerland's most famous mountain, and has plenty of modern touches, like its state-of-the-art lift system and swanky après-ski diversions. Horse-drawn sleighs are the preferred choice of transportation in the car-free village. On the slopes, be sure to stop for the burger at Chez Vrony (reservations a must) and a glass of bubbles at the tiny Champagne bar at the end of the Sunnega run. The new Matterhorn Glacier Ride II now links the entire stretch between Zermatt and Cervinia by cable car, connecting the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise mountain station with the Testa Grigia valley station.
Where to stay: Grand dame Mont Cervin Palace and modern-luxe Schweizerhof Zermatt, both offer prime central locations and every imaginable amenity. Just above the village, slope-side CERVO Mountain Resort recently added an ashram-inspired spa with an expansive network of outdoor pools, saunas, and soaking tubs.
Stats: One-day lift ticket from $87; on the Ikon Pass. There are 55 lifts for 147 runs.
