Top 10 Best Ski Resorts in Europe for Spring Skiing
Is the ski season truly over? Think again! Many European resorts remain open well into spring, offering affordable accommodations and uncrowded slopes. This is the perfect time to hit the snow. From renowned favorites to hidden gems, here are the top 10 best places to ski in Europe.
Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy
Nestled in the heart of Italy's Dolomite mountains, Cortina d’Ampezzo is a premier winter sports destination renowned for its breathtaking ski runs, stunning scenery, upscale accommodations, vibrant shops, and lively après-ski scene. It hosted the 1956 Winter Olympics after the 1944 event was canceled due to World War II and has been a venue for numerous World Cup events. For another excellent Italian option, check our guide to skiing in Madonna di Campiglio.
Val d’Isère, France
Often hailed as one of the world's top ski resorts, Val d’Isère features exceptional ski schools for all skill levels, a state-of-the-art lift system, and a vast ski area shared with Tignes. With terrain suited to every ability and high-altitude positioning enabling year-round skiing, it offers diverse package holidays and lodging. The charming town center, marked by its 17th-century church spire, buzzes with nightlife and exceptional dining options.
Igls, Austria
Part of the Innsbruck Glacier Ski area, Igls provides direct access to 12km of downhill skiing across 11 pistes served by 7 lifts. The dramatic landscape, with Innsbruck nestled below, is unforgettable. Your lift pass also grants access to the broader Innsbruck Glacier Ski and Stubai SuperSki areas for skiing and snowboarding.
Pelion Mountain, Greece
Pelion Mountain remains a well-kept secret, offering abundant skiing opportunities yet to be fully explored. Known as the mythical home of the Centaurs, these majestic peaks feature skiing at the charming Chania resort amid unparalleled scenery.
Chamonix, France
Chamonix captivates with its rugged beauty, world-class winter sports, and vibrant après-ski. Adjacent to Mont Blanc—the Alps' highest peak—this historic resort boasts 12 ski areas, ideal for advanced skiers with thrilling off-piste options from Aiguille du Midi. Hire a guide for the iconic Vallée Blanche descent. Nestled in the stunning Chamonix Valley, it draws avid skiers, snowboarders, and revelers year after year.
Courchevel, France
Part of the world's largest linked ski area, The Three Valleys (spanning eight valleys), Courchevel offers 600km of groomed pistes. Enjoy panoramic views from Mont Blanc in the north to the Ecrins massif in the south, plus vistas of Swiss and Italian Alps. Efficient lifts quickly access the Trois Vallées summit at Pointe de Thorens (3,266m) in Val Thorens.
Wengen, Switzerland
Perfect for intermediates and experts seeking stunning Alpine views and classic architecture, Wengen is a traffic-free village accessible only by cog railway. Linked to Grindelwald, it features long, gentle runs, beginner slopes in the village center, and a serene atmosphere. A restored cable car provides easy slope access.
Pas de la Casa, Andorra
In the independent principality of Andorra (since 1278), this lively resort at 2,050m elevation rises to 2,640m—the Pyrenees' highest. Reliable snow from its location and snowmaking ensures great conditions under blue skies. Ideal for beginners and intermediates, with challenging runs and a snowpark.
Neustift, Austria
The largest village near the Stubai Glacier, Neustift offers 28 lifts and 7,382 feet of vertical drop. The scenic road to the ski area is breathtaking. Open year-round, the glacier suits all levels and features one of the world's longest rail bobsleighs.
Kandersteg, Switzerland
An ideal spot for beginners amid unmatched beauty, Kandersteg's gentle yet challenging slopes allow skill-building. This picturesque village, a winter resort for over 100 years (originally for curling), offers indoor/outdoor ice rinks and a climbing wall for off-slope fun.
