Skiing vacations in Europe come with a standard package: fresh snow, absurd quantities of melted cheese, and kids insisting they “aren’t cold” while they’re basically tiny frozen marshmallows. Here’s a longer guide to the best resorts for families, luxury lovers, and travelers who prefer to save their money for hot chocolate.
Les Arcs in France
The ultimate family-friendly resort. Les Arcs feels like a snowy amusement park where everything is designed for families. Wide slopes, fun zones, great ski schools that somehow convince kids to stop eating snow, and accommodation right by the lifts. Prices are reasonable for such a big resort, especially in Arc 1800. Parents can finally breathe… at least until someone loses a glove again.
Zell am See in Austria
Perfect for families who want charm. Zell am See has that classic Austrian-village vibe: frozen lake, cute streets, and gentle slopes that help beginners stay upright. It’s great value, family-friendly, and offers a perfect balance between skiing and slow, cozy moments. Austrian pastries between runs are basically mandatory—and explain why afternoon skiing feels faster.
Courchevel 1850 in France
Luxury with extra sparkle. If your ideal ski vacation includes champagne, chauffeurs, and log cabins that look like jewelry boxes, Courchevel 1850 is your home. Even the snow feels fancy here. Luxury boutiques, five-star hotels, gourmet restaurants, and immaculate slopes make it the pinnacle of upscale skiing. Warning: returning to normal life afterwards may be difficult.
Zermatt in Switzerland
The panorama of luxury. Zermatt is the kind of place where the Matterhorn photobombs every picture like a superstar. The car-free village is magical, the mountain restaurants are almost too delicious, and the hotels take Swiss comfort to the next level. Perfect for couples and families who value quality over counting coins.
La Plagne in France
Best value for money. La Plagne offers a gigantic ski area linked to Les Arcs, tons of accommodation choices, and lift passes that stay relatively wallet-friendly. It’s ideal for families and groups who want maximum skiing for a reasonable price, without giving up good snow or après-ski cheese.
