As the year draws to a close and the air turns crisp, thoughts inevitably turn to Christmas and – more importantly – getting in a ski break. And with so many of the European ski resorts looking like a winter wonderland in December, it’s very tempting to grab a Christmas ski package or book an apartment and enjoy a proper white Christmas.
Luckily there are rich pickings at this time of year, and most years we tend to see a good dump of snow across the Alps in the run up to the festive season.
So whether it’s a family Christmas getaway, a romantic escape or just a sneaky ski session for yourself, where are the best places to ski in Europe over the Christmas season?
*Note: There are also some affiliate links in this article, which simply means we may earn a commission if you buy anything via our partners, at no cost to you…
Are the Alps snowsure over Christmas?
As a general rule, yes, you’ll usually find some decent snow cover in the main Alpine ski resorts over December and into Christmas and the new year.
But although Christmas does often see ample snowfall across the Alps, and Europe in general, the changing climate does mean that some places are less snowsure than others.
At this time of the year, it can be touch and go, and you might find snow at lower altitude resorts such as Megeve or Morzine. But if you want to be sure, go higher up – ie, over 2000 metres.
If you’re going for family festive vibes, you’ll more likely be looking for the Christmas magic. By which we mean Christmas markets, festive events, the lights and all that kinda malarkey.
As a general rule, heading to Austria means you’ll also get to enjoy an authentic Christmas market. Although French and Italian resorts do also have a festive vibe, Christmas lovers should look to the Germanic/Austrian resorts for the most romantic Bing Crosy-esque winter scenes.
Looking to book your Christmas ski trip? Browse deals on Ski World.
OK, yeah. Enough pre-amble. Where is best to ski at Christmas in Europe? Lets find out…
The Best Christmas Ski Resorts Europe
Tignes-Val d’Isère, France
The linked resorts of Tignes and Val d’Isère offer a high altitude base offering some of the most incredible terrain in the French Alps. With terrain mostly above 2000m and over 300kms of terrain to explore, this is a solid snowsure Christmas skiing option, and a vibrant Christmas party to top things off (yes, we’re talking apres here).
In fact Val d’Isere is one of the best known apres ski hotspots in the Alps making it a top pick for those looking for a not-so-silent night. Don’t let that scare you off though… There is plenty of festive fun here too, with enchanting Christmas markets adding a touch of magic, stalls selling handmade crafts and local delicacies and the odd appearance from a man in a red coat.
Both Val d’Isere and neighbouring Tignes make a great option for both early season skiing and a snowy spot to celebrate Christmas.
Check out SkiWorld for some great deals in Val d’Isere.
Best for: High altitude snow sure terrain and epic apres ski.
Zermatt, Switzerland/Cervinia, Italy
Looking for a ski destination that guarantees a white Christmas AND looks gorgeous. It’s gotta be Zermatt. The gorgeous traditional landscape and car free village makes this easily one of the best resorts for Christmas holidays.
The majestic Matterhorn serves as a breathtaking backdrop as you hit the slopes, and the charming car-free streets are adorned with festive decorations, creating a magical atmosphere. Of course there is much more to Zermatt that just skiing. Explore the Christmas markets and indulge in local Swiss cuisine while immersing yourself in the holiday spirit. And most likely some Christmas spirits too (expect schnapps in your Christmas stocking).
This genuinely is a winter wonderland and the festive season is the perfect time to discover this world class ski resort.
Not so sure about the price of Zermatt? Neighbouring Cervinia in Italy offers much the same experience for less and is linked to Zermatt via the awesome glacier run. If you’re looking for high altitude slopes and the ideal destination to enjoy Christmas day, both Zermatt and Cervinia will tick the boxes.
Book Zermatt ski packages at Snowtrex.
Best for: Iconic location and tons of snow sure terrain.
St. Anton/Lech-Zurs, Austria
The Arlberg ski area is one of the best ski resorts in Austria (and therefore the Alps), and is incredibly popular with both Austrians and international fun seekers. The area has some of the most notorious ski resorts, including St Anton am Arlberg, and Lech-Zurs.
St. Anton, Austria, is the infamous ski resort renowned for its thrilling slopes and rowdy après-ski scene. Skiers of all levels will find themselves captivated by the vast ski area, while holiday enthusiasts can soak up the festive atmosphere in the traditional Austrian Christmas markets. Imagine indulging in delicious Austrian sausages and warming up with hot mulled wine after a day on the slopes – yup, the perfect Christmas vibes.
Lech-Zürs is a part of the Arlberg area and is a ski destination that exudes pure magic. Lech-Zürs offers a winter playground for skiers of all levels especially intermediates looking for some of the best ski terrain in Austria.
Like St Anton, Lech Zurs has a great Christmas market where you can enjoy a festive hot chocolate (or something a little stronger) while admiring the lights and the stunning mountain backdrop.
Austria generally is a great place to go for Christmas, but Arlberg offers some of the best ski resorts for a festive ski holiday with friends or family.
Find deals on St Anton ski packages with Snowtrex.
Best for: Mile munchers and party animals.
Zell am See, Austria
If you’re looking for the best Christmas market on the list, then stop searching because this is it. With a built for purpose festive lakeside park in this already very pretty Alpine town, plus an authentic market in the main square, this is where to get your gingerbread, gluhwein and Christmas shopping fix.
And the skiing isn’t bad either! With access to 140 kms of high altitude terrain, including the glacier at nearby Kaprun, you can get your snow fix and your Christmas fix all in one. Terrain is also good for mixed abilities, making this a good option for family friendly Christmas ski breaks in Europe.
Best for: Festive vibes, scenic town, mixed ability skiing.
Les Trois Vallees, France
Nestled in the French Alps, Les Trois Vallees, or The Three Valleys is a high-altitude ski resort that promises an unforgettable Christmas ski holiday. In fact, Val Thorens is the highest ski area in Europe, and the Three Valleys is the worlds biggest interconnected ski area – giving you multiple reasons to book a trip here.
With its extensive ski area and well-groomed pistes, resorts including Val Thorens, Les Menuires, Meribel and Courchevel offer a thrilling skiing experience for all levels. The one that stands out is Courchevel, whuch is truly special during the Christmas season thanks to its enchanting Christmas village.
Any of the Three Valleys resorts will make a spectacular base for a Christmas ski break.
Browse Three Valleys ski packages on SkiWorld
Best for: High altitude snowsure terrain, all levels of budget from luxury to basic and great apres ski.
Paradiski (La Plagne and Les Arcs), France
The linked resorts of Les Arcs and La Plagne offer a vast and snowsure playground well suited for mixed ability groups. Les Arcs is the one with more tree runs, and La Plagne offers lots of long cruisey runs. With most of the terrain hovering around 2000m and above, there is some great snow sure access here.
The towns are quite fragmented, with options from quite lowly (Montchavin and Plagne-Montalbert at around 1300m each) to the high altitude ski in/ski out options of Plagne Centre, Belle Plagne and Arcs 1950.
Read our full La Plagne/Paradiski review here.
You’re not going to find much in the way of Christmas markets, but you’ll find plenty of ski terrain and most likely snow too.
Best for: Mixed ability groups, options for all budgets and ski in/ski out.
Alta Badia, Italy
Alta Badia, located in the stunning Dolomites of Italy, is a picturesque ski destination that marries exhilarating skiing with Italian charm. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert skier, Alta Badia’s well-connected ski area caters to all levels.
The region’s rich culture shines during the Christmas season, with traditional Christmas markets offering a wide array of hand-carved wooden toys and other unique gifts. Delight in the warmth of Italian hospitality as you partake in a Christmas ski holiday that effortlessly blends adventure and tradition.
Check out Alta Badia ski packages at SkiWorld.
Verbier, Switzerland
For those seeking an adrenaline-fueled Christmas ski holiday, Verbier is the place to be. Situated in the Swiss canton of Valais, Verbier and the Four valleys area boasts an the biggest ski area in Switzerland with over 410km of pistes. This is best suited to intermediate and advanced skiers, who will find a sprawling playground of challenging slopes and thrilling off-piste opportunities. In fact, we visited Verbier just before Christmas, check out our Verbier review.
After an exhilarating day on the slopes, immerse yourself in the festive ambiance of Verbier’s Christmas market, where you can sample local treats and browse unique gifts. Experience a Christmas ski holiday that caters to your adventurous spirit and check out Verbier.
You can also head to nearby Martigny or Sion to soak up the Swiss festivities.
Best for: Snow sure terrain, freeriding, great apres ski and luxury experiences.
Kitzbühel, Austria
This charming medieval town nestled in the Kitzbühel Alps of Austria, offers a Christmas ski holiday like no other. With over 170km of pistes, Kitzbühel caters to skiers of all levels. But it’s not just about the skiing or the snow sure terrain.
The town comes alive during the Christmas season, with traditional Christmas markets offering handcrafted Christmas decorations and gifts. Anyone who has ever been to Austria or Germany knows that they certainly know how to do a Christmas market. Expect gluwein, sausage, Christmas carols and more.
Best for: Intermediate terrain and authentic Tyrolean town.
Chamonix, France
One of the world’s most famous ski resorts, Chamonix is not just for thrill-seekers. While the Vallee Blanche offers an incredible ski run for experienced skiers, Chamonix also embraces the spirit of Christmas. Visitors can stroll through the lively Christmas market, filled with local crafts and delicious seasonal treats. The real town vibe is also well suited to non-skiers, with plenty to see and do off the mountain during the day.
While this isn’t the most festive spot in the Alps, you will be able to ski or snowboard by day and then enjoy some festive spirit (and aperitif) at your lodgings and in town. Oh and that view of the Aiguille du Midi and Mont Blanc is pretty spectacular too,
Yes, Chamonix is a very popular ski resort and can be expensive. But there are lots of choices for places to ski and snowboard, and you’ll find the ski season in full swing during the Christmas holidays here.
For alternatives in the same area, you could also look to Megeve. While this is a lower altitude ski resort than Chamonix, the town tends to be more affordable and you can enjoy some great conditions if want to spend Christmas in a genuine Savoyard town dusted with snow.
Check out our Chamonix review.
Best for: Authentic mountain town vibes, intermediate skiers and non-skiers.
Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy
Cortina d’Ampezzo, one Italy’s most famous ski resorts, promises a Christmas ski holiday surrounded by stunning alpine scenery. With its wide-open pistes and challenging slopes, Cortina d’Ampezzo appeals to skiers of all levels. After a day on the slopes, you’ll find the traditional Christmas market, where local artisans sell hand-carved wooden toys and other unique gifts.
As for the ski terrain? Being in the high Alps, you’ve got perfect snowsure terrain and amazing pistes. A dream Christmas ski holiday for many!
Find great Christmas ski deals to Cortina with Skiworld.
Best for: Mixed ability groups, affordability, snow sure terrain.
Megève, France
Megève, a charming ski resort in the French Alps, is known for its enchanting skiing experience and delightful Christmas ambiance. With its well-groomed pistes and wide variety of ski terrain, Megève caters to skiers of all levels.
The town’s Christmas market is filled with crafts, local delicacies, and the warm glow of Christmas lights. Unwind amidst the alpenglow and festive cheer as you embark on a Christmas ski holiday that combines alpine beauty with holiday delights. Thanks to its more sedate vibes, Megeve would also make a great family friendly ski option in France…
Best for: Traditional villages, families and intermediate skiers.
Crans Montana, Switzerland
While Switzerland isn’t short of great ski resorts, Crans Montana is a bit of a gem in the Valais region. With over 140 kms of south facing Alpine pistes, and a reputation for luxury apartments and hotels, we found Crans Montana to be a great Christmas ski resort. With the highest point touching 3000 metres, you’ve got snow sure terrain, a good mix of intermediate friendly slopes, and lots to see and do for families.
Crans Montana is also decorated with festive sparkle at Christmas including the lantern walk, free ice rink discos and Father Christmas even makes an appearance. Read more about skiing and snowboarding in Crans Montana.
Best for: Intermediate skiers and snowboarders plus luxury shopping.
Levi, Finland
Finland’s premier ski resort and the closest to Santa’s HQ in the Arctic circle, this is probably the ski resort your kids would choose. For starters, you’ve got 45 kms of beginner and intermediate friendly terrain, lots of festive activities like visiting the Elves Hideaway in Tonttula and fun non-ski activities like husky and reindeer pulled sled tours! If that wasn’t enough, you’ve also got views of the stunning Northern Lights and pretty much guaranteed snow at this time of year.
Yes, the nights are long, but the slopes are illuminated long enough to give you the experience of night skiing pretty much every day. And you also have options to stay in an igloo – and very likely an access to a sauna at the end of the day.
Best for: Snow sure terrain, mixed ability groups and non-skiers looking for the real Christmas experience.
Crafting Your Perfect Christmas Ski Escape
Hopefully we’ve piqued your festive interest and given you some great ideas of where to ski at Christmas in Europe. This is just a small selection of some of the great places to explore, and we think you’ll find lots of options from package providers such as SkiWorld.
We think SkiWorld provide some of the best all inclusive options, with flights, transfers and catered chalets/hotels included, not to mention ski passes.
Browse Christmas ski packages on Ski World.
So book in for an epic Christmas ski package, and get read to enjoy an unforgettable winter wonderland!
Looking to book later in the year? Find ideas to enjoy ski in February.
Christmas Skiing FAQs
Is Europe snow sure in December and over Christmas?
With the changing climate it is harder than ever to say with any certainty about snow cover at specific ski resorts or countries. Generally speaking, the higher you go the more likely the snow cover will be good, so aim for high altitude resorts if this matters to you.
With this being said, most of the resorts on our list will have at least some natural snowcover, especially those with glaciers. And the bigger resorts will also have snow cannons to top up if there is a shortage.
Where is the best place to ski at Christmas in Europe?
This will depend entirely on your personal requirements, but if you want snow cover, a good mix of terrain and a lively Christmas vibe, our top three picks would be:
- Zermatt, Switzerland
- Les Trois Vallees, France
- Arlberg, Austria
Are European ski resorts busy at Christmas?
The run up to Christmas day tends to be quieter, with most resorts starting to fill up just before Christmas Eve. But the week between Christmas and New Year can be very busy even at smaller ski resorts in Europe. If you’re planning on skiing at Christmas in the Alps or Europe, book as early in advance as possible to avoid missing out on availability.
How can I find good ski package deals for Christmas skiing in Europe?
If you’re looking for the best deals on ski lifts plus accomodation for Christmas skiing, we highly recommend Snowtrex and Sunweb. These are the two biggest ski package providers in Europe with some of the best lift included packages.
