Top Ski Resorts in Europe for Beginners
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The thrill of carving through powdery runs on a sunny day, surrounded by snow-sugared pines, bright blue skies, and rocky, rugged mountain peaks, is an unmatched winter experience.
But for lots of Americans, this dream ski vacation has become mired by resort overcrowding and eye-watering lift ticket prices.
Families with children or adults hoping to take a couple days of ski lessons are confronted with similar sticker shock.
The cost of skiing in Europe is often what first catches the attention of American skiers.
BUT WHAT IF YOU’RE JUST LEARNING HOW TO SKI?
Is it crazy to fly to Europe to learn how to ski?
Actually, not at all!
I recommend a European ski trip to all my friends - even the ones who are looking to take up the hobby.
Here’s a quick rundown of my favorite resorts for those just getting started.
Top Ski Resorts in Europe for Beginners
Why Americans Should Consider a Ski Trip to Europe
Like I said, cost is a major reason for learning to ski in Europe.
While the average cost to rent ski equipment - between 40 - 70 Euros per day - is similar to the U.S. (and varies depending on specific resort), there are tons of savings to be had on ski lift tickets, ski school lessons, and accommodations.
THERE ARE A COUPLE LONG WEEKENDS IN THE WINTER THAT ARE PERFECT FOR FLYING OVER TO EUROPE TO SKI.
The ski season in Europe is similar to that of major North American resorts:
· Most open in late November and close in mid- to late-April.
· High seasons are around Christmas and New Year’s.
· The last three weeks of January and the first week of February are usually a little quiet.
· The high season resumes from mid-February until the end of March.
Americans can take advantage of the long holiday weekends of Martin Luther King Jr. Day and President’s Day to jet over to Europe for a quick ski break.
Key Differences Between Skiing in Europe and the United States
💸 Cost: In Europe, ski lift tickets are often half the price of their US counterparts, as are ski lessons.
Lodgings, which usually include breakfast, are generally less expensive than in the US, as well.
⛰️ Size: European resorts are larger and interconnected, linked by modern lift systems with gondolas and chair lifts. Because these independently owned, contiguous mountains are available on a single lift ticket, it’s common to ski from one town to another and back in a single day.
In the extreme, this results in “cross-border skiing”, where you ski from one country into another.
US ski resorts are usually more self-contained, with a singular mountain focus.
Ski lessons are one of the things that a noticeably less expensive in Europe.
🥩 Food: While American ski resorts tend to focus on convenience and variety, European resorts offer more gourmet dining experiences that emphasize local culinary traditions.
We often dine at Michelin-starred restaurants for slope-side lunches while skiing in Europe. 😋
🇪🇺 Cultures: Within Europe, there is a wide variety of cultural and regional differences.
Skiing in Austria will be different from skiing in France - the food and drink, the lodging style.
These cultural differences are also what tend to get Americans hooked on skiing in Europe - they hear stories in Megève about ski culture in Kitzbühel, for example, and decide to check out Austria on their next trip.
Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy
Cortina d’Ampezzo is a world-renowned ski resort located in the Dolomite Mountains of northeastern Italy.
The region is beloved for its beautiful scenery, epicurean cuisine, and unique Südtirol charm.
Cortina sits within the nearly 30,000 acre Dolomiti Superski area. It offers a full range of slopes for skiers and snowboarders of all levels.
A full moon over Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy.
I’m a big fan of its wide blue runs, affordable ski schools, and the way the Dolomites glow pink in the sunset.
Cortina has long been a destination for winter sports championships, and will once again host the Winter Olympics (together with Milan) in 2026!
Best Experiences in Cortina d’Ampezzo
Tofana Ski Tour / Those seeking to explore Tofana shouldn’t miss this 4-hour ski odyssey through the Tofana area with an expert guide.
This tour caters to diverse skiing abilities.
Between runs, the tour pauses at rifugios along the way for well-deserved refreshments.
Offered both in the morning and afternoon, this is a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the wonder of the Tofana ski area under the guidance of a seasoned expert.
First World War Sites Ski Tour / History buffs should consider this 6-hour ski tour delving into the historical landscapes of World War I.
Glide through the evocative terrain surrounding Monte Col di Luna, site of intense war battles, and discover historical remnants, from trenches to forts, gun posts, parapet walks, and guard posts.
This skiing adventure covers 49 miles (80 km), weaving through the stunning winter scenery as you absorb the rich historical narrative.
A midday pause serves as a well-deserved break and and a chance to relish traditional local dishes in the warm embrace of a mountain rifugio.
Super 8 Lagazuoi and 5 Torri Ski Tour / Lauded as the most breath-taking ski tour in the Dolomites, the Super8 ski tour is a must-do for any skier visiting Cortina d’Ampezzo.
This 6-hour Super8 ski adventure traverses the landscape in a mesmerizing figure-8 shape, unveiling the majesty of renowned peaks like Marmolada, Tofana, Civetta, 5 Torri, and Pelmo.
Glide through pristine valleys, witness the frozen beauty of waterfalls, and experience the charm of traditional mountain rifugios along the way.
This unique ski tour promises not only breathtaking mountain top panoramas but also an unforgettable journey through the captivating winter tableau of the Dolomites.
Kitzbühel, Austria
Kitzbühel, Austria offers over 230 kilometers of ski slopes and a reliable lift system to ferry skiers to all parts of its various, all-levels terrain.
The resort is an historic Alpine village that dates back to medieval times, with cobblestone streets, colorful architecture, and horse-drawn carriage tours whisking visitors through town.
It’s famous for the annual Hahnenkamm downhill race, as well as for its reliable snow coverage.
The Kitzbühel mountains visible from town.
THE AREA KNOWN AS "KITZBÜHELER HORN" IS PARTICULARLY WELL-SUITED FOR THOSE NEW TO SKIING.
It features wide, gentle slopes and dedicated beginner zones with magic carpets and easy ski lifts.
Kitzbühel ski schools also get high marks for its experienced instructors, too.
Best Experiences in Kitzbühel, Austria
St Johann in Tirol: Tandem Paragliding / Looking for adventure beyond skiing?
Tandem Paragliding is a popular mountain experience that mimics flying.
This tandem paragliding adventure starts 1600 meters up the mountains with a stunning view over the Kitzbühel Alps.
No experience is required, and you get to choose your ride experience, from a quiet glide through the atmosphere to a more acrobatic, adventure-seeking descent.
You can even steer the paraglider yourself!
Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany
Garmisch-Partenkirchen is the union of two mountain villages nestled in the Bavarian Alps of southeastern Germany, gateway to the Zugspitze, Germany’s highest peak, and renowned as a winter destination for over a century.
It’s home to more than 70 kilometers of slopes between the Garmisch-Classic and Zugspitze ski areas.
Host of the 1936 Winter Olympics, its Kandahar downhill run is famous as one of the steepest and most treacherous slopes in the Alps.
(Yea, that one’s definitely *not* for beginners.)
Atop the Zugspitze in Garmisch-Partenkirchen.
The resort is suitable for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels.
In the Garmisch-Classic ski area, the Hausberg area is great for beginners, and includes the Ixis children’s area for those of us who like to start the day with a magic carpet ride and a short, simple run. (I call it the confidence builder.)
The Zugspitze ski area has blue runs that are wide and straight, gently flowing down the mountain with little need for advanced maneuvering.
This ski area is on a glacier, which gives it an extra long ski season that stretches to the end of April.
Best Experiences in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany
Horse Carriage Tour of Garmisch-Partenkirchen / Experience the magic of Garmisch-Partenkirchen with a cozy horse-drawn carriage ride.
The journey begins with a sweet stop at the famous Chocolatier Amelie.
Next, snuggle under warm blankets, sip on hot cocoa and mulled wine, and glide through a winter wonderland.
Your private guide will share captivating stories of World War II, the Roman Road, and the 1936 Olympics.
Don’t miss this unforgettable winter adventure through this enchanting Bavarian ski town.
Neuschwanstein Castle Tour / Discover Germany’s most famous, fairy-tale castle on a private, full-day tour of the iconic Neuschwanstein Castle.
Skip the long entry lines and step straight into the 19th-century fortress, where your guide will reveal the fascinating history of King Ludwig II and the castle's stunning Romanesque architecture.
From there, continue on to the charming village of Oberammergau, renowned for its cultural heritage, and then explore the serene beauty of Ettal Abbey.
End your day with a comfortable return to your hotel.
Bavarian Sauna Experience / Experience the true essence of European relaxation with our exclusive day tour to Krystal Therme.
Unlike anything most Americans have encountered, this cultural immersion introduces you to the art of sauna, including the practice of Frei Körper Kultur (FKK), where nudity is embraced as part of the natural wellness experience.
Your guide will walk you through the spa, unveiling secluded resting areas, saunas, and whirlpools, while explaining the rejuvenating Aufguss ritual.
With towels, salt scrubs, and a full orientation included, you'll leave feeling completely refreshed, stress-free, and ready for the rest of your travels.
Megève, France
Megève, nestled in the French Alps, is a charming ski village renowned for its upscale ambiance.
Established in the early 20th century as a winter sports destination, Megève has evolved into a luxurious retreat attracting international jet-setters.
THE VILLAGE EXUDES ALPINE SPLENDOR WITH ITS PICTURESQUE CHALETS, COBBLESTONE STREETS, AND MEDIEVAL CHURCH.
After a day of heavy snowfall in Megève, France.
Part of the expansive Mont Blanc massif, Megève offers over 400 kilometers of interconnected slopes to skiers and snowboarders.
The Le Jaillet ski area is a mix of beginner blue runs and a few intermediate red runs.
Beyond winter sports, the village entices visitors with high-end boutiques, Michelin-starred restaurants, and a vibrant après-ski scene.
Megève remains a sought-after destination for both winter enthusiasts and those seeking a refined mountain getaway.
Best Experiences in Megève, France
Night Snowshoeing + Chalet Dinner / As the sun sets over the Chamonix-Megeve area, embark on a magical snowshoe adventure with Agence 1786.
Your guide will lead you on a short ascent to the Montagnette refuge, where you'll be greeted by the chalet's owner, ready to share stories of this historic alpine retreat.
Savor a hearty Savoyard meal in this cozy, enchanting setting before strapping on your snowshoes for an exhilarating, star-lit descent through the forest.
Whether snow-covered or not, Agence 1786 ensures a captivating evening in the heart of the French Alps.
Mayrhofen, Austria
Mayrhofen, a small village in the Zillertal Alps of southwestern Austrian, sits an hour east of Innsbruck.
IT’S RENOWNED FOR BOTH ITS PISTES AND ITS APRÈS-SKI SCENE.
Thanks to its proximity to the Hintertux glacier, Mayrhofen punches above its weight in terms of snow quality, lift infrastructure, and run variety.
Taking a break from an afternoon of skiing in Mayrhofen, Austria.
The Ahorn ski area has wide, gentle slopes, ideal for beginner skiers, as well as breathtaking views of the Zillertal Alps.
Mayrhofen is easy to navigate, with lift access via the Penkenbahn cable car in the center of the village. There is also a ski bus for further mountain access.
The town boasts an impressive party après-ski scene, too, with the Brück’n Stadl as a stand-out establishment for its loudly thumping Austrian Après Pop music.
Best Experiences in Mayrhofen, Austria
Private Paragliding Flight / Soar above the stunning Zillertal Alps with a private paragliding adventure in Mayrhofen.
Customize your flight to match your thrill level, whether you prefer a gentle glide or heart-pounding loops and spirals.
Start your journey with expert guidance as you meet your instructor by the Penkenbahn cable car, then transfer to the takeoff point for a detailed safety briefing.
Feel the rush of excitement as you lift off into the air, taking in breathtaking views during your 20-25 minute tandem flight.
EUROPE OFFERS FANTASTIC OPPORTUNITIES FOR BEGINNERS TO LEARN TO SKI.
With affordable lift tickets, ski school lessons, and accommodations, coupled with a ski season that aligns well with U.S. holiday weekends, it's easy to see why a quick European ski getaway is so appealing.
So, why not make your next long weekend a European ski adventure?
Until next time,
Angela ⛷️