Winter Holiday
Skiing, Northern Lights and cosy cabins: The best winter destinations from the Alps to Lapland.
Why a Winter Holiday Is So Special
Winter holidays have their own particular magic: snow-covered mountain landscapes, crisp air, the silence after snowfall. Whether skiing in the Alps, Northern Lights in Lapland or winter walking in the Dolomites – the cold season offers experiences impossible in summer.
For skiers and snowboarders the Alps are paradise: Austria, Switzerland, South Tyrol and France together offer thousands of piste kilometres, legendary apres-ski and breathtaking panoramas. But winter can also mean Northern Lights in Tromso, husky sledding in Lapland or thermal baths in Budapest.
This guide shows you the best winter destinations in Europe, gives money-saving tips for ski holidays and helps you plan the perfect winter trip.
The 6 Best Winter Holiday Destinations
From world-class ski resorts to Arctic adventures.
St. Anton am Arlberg
AustriaThe cradle of Alpine skiing: 300 km of pistes, legendary apres-ski and snow-sure altitudes up to 2,811 m.
Highlights:
Zermatt
SwitzerlandThe Matterhorn as a backdrop, car-free village and glacier skiing up to 3,883 m – skiing almost year-round.
Highlights:
Val Gardena
South Tyrol, ItalyDolomite panorama, Sella Ronda and excellent cuisine. Best value for money in the Alps.
Highlights:
Lapland
FinlandA winter fairy tale beyond the Arctic Circle: Northern Lights, husky sledding, reindeer safaris and Santa's village.
Highlights:
Garmisch-Partenkirchen
GermanySkiing on the Zugspitze, winter walking in the Partnach Gorge and Bavarian inn culture.
Highlights:
Tromso
NorwayThe gateway to the Arctic: Northern Lights right above the city, whale watching and Arctic adventures.
Highlights:
Winter Destinations Compared
| Destination | Budget | Getting There | Season | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| St. Anton | $$$ | 5h car | Dec–Apr | Ski & Apres-Ski |
| Zermatt | $$$$ | 6h car | Nov–May | Luxury ski |
| Val Gardena | $$ | 4h car | Dec–Mar | Dolomite ski |
| Lapland | $$$ | 3.5h flight | Dec–Mar | Northern Lights |
| Garmisch | $$ | 1.5h car | Dec–Mar | Zugspitze |
| Tromso | $$$ | 4h flight | Nov–Feb | Arctic adventure |
Insider Tips for Your Winter Holiday
Buy ski passes online
Many ski resorts offer online tickets with 10-15% discount.
Hire ski equipment
Pre-ordering online is usually cheaper than renting on the spot.
Stay in the valley not on the mountain
Valley hotels are often 30-50% cheaper. Ski bus connections in the Alps are excellent.
Use the off-season
Early December and late March often offer the best conditions at lower prices.
Pack your own food
A packed lunch on the slopes saves a fortune. Mountain hut prices are twice as high.
Book ski lessons online
Ski lessons sell out quickly in peak season. Book 2-3 weeks ahead.
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Ready for Snow and Adventure?
Find your perfect winter destination – whether pistes, Northern Lights or cosy cabins.