What Are The Top Ski Destinations In Europe For Winter 2023?

Condé Naste Traveler recently polled its readers to find out what they believe to be the top ski destinations in Europe. While some are not surprising, all are beautiful places to head down the slopes and then enjoy après ski with other skiers. Admittedly, a skiing vacation in Europe doesn’t come cheap, making it even more important to choose the perfect location. Read on to find out the best ski destinations voted for as part of the magazine’s 36th annual Readers’ Choice Awards.

Top ski destinations in Europe by Condé Naste Traveler’s readers

The top destinations include Swiss, Austrian and French skiing locations voted for by Conde Naste Traveler readers. Read on to find out about the top five ski destinations, including some that have been famous for many years. Hopefully, climate change won’t gradually take the snow away from us in the future, making it even more important to visit now.

1. Zermatt, Switzerland – top ski destination

Zermatt is possibly the most famous mountain town in Europe and a perfect place for those who love to ski. Meanwhile, in summer, Zermatt is also a haven for nature lovers, hikers and mountain bikers. When it comes to the ski season, this highest European ski area boasts that snow is guaranteed here for 365 days of the year.

With more than 220 miles of piste around the mountain town and modern, reliable cable cars to get there, skiers get to play with the background of that famous peak, the Matterhorn. Moreover, Zermatt’s après ski scene is also among the best in Europe.

2. St. Moritz, Switzerland – home of Alpine winter sports

Staying in Switzerland, St. Moritz boasts that it was the birthplace of Alpine winter tourism. It certainly seems to be and with more than 200 miles of piste, modern-day skiers can enjoy the area. For those with an adventurous soul, St. Moritz also hosts the steepest slope in Switzerland on Corviglia Mountain. Moreover, it also hosts an annual ice bob run, which is exciting to watch.

Each year, thousands of skiers, snowboarders and winter hikers head here for its beautiful snowy mountain views, fabulous slopes, great infrastructure and luxurious accommodations.

3. Ski in Innsbruck, Austria

Heading to Austria, Innsbruck has twice hosted the Winter Olympics and for good reason. It is among the larger ski destinations on the continent and offers a vibrant atmosphere, welcoming university students and other young skiers.

Meanwhile, besides offering world-class skiing all year round, Innsbruck offers plenty to see and do, including Ambras Castle, the Imperial Palace, the Golden Roof and the famous Bergisel Ski Jump, which offers the best views over the city.

4. Luxurious skiing in Verbier, Switzerland

It is no surprise that Switzerland comes up so high in Conde Naste Traveler’s readers’ opinions, with Verbier lying on the edge of Lac Léman in the southwest of the country. Located just two hours from Geneva Airport, this is a luxurious option when it comes to winter skiing. Also, ski lessons are available to learn the art or refresh your skills since last winter.

Meanwhile, Verbier offers luxurious hotels and excellent restaurants to keep visitors busy between visits to the slope. Moreover, the city hosts the annual winter electronic music festival, Polaris in late November.

5. Skiing in Val d’Isere, France

The only ski destination in France to hit the top five is Val d’Isere, a fabled skiing destination that starts its season on December 2nd, 2023. Here, more than 180 miles of slopes are available close to town, along with some popular off-piste options for more adventurous skiers.

When not out on the slopes, visitors can take advantage of comfortable lounges and terraces to relax and simply enjoy the view. Meanwhile, Val d’Isere is a family-friendly ski destination that also offers tobogganing, winter walking tours and dog sledding.

Read more about these ski destinations on Conde Naste Traveler’s website here.