You can go skiing and snowboarding in many amazing places across Europe and America! Both sports are available at major mountain resorts, where you can rent equipment, take lessons, and enjoy snowy slopes.
1. Zermatt — Switzerland
Best for iconic scenery
Spectacular views of the Matterhorn, extensive slopes, and high-altitude skiing and snowboarding. Some skiing is possible year-round, subject to lift and slope conditions.
Best season: December–April for winter conditions
2. Chamonix — France
Dramatic Alpine mountains, challenging runs, and a lively mountain town. Excellent for experienced riders, with options for beginners nearby.
Best season: December–April
3. Val Thorens — France
One of Europe’s highest major ski resorts, with a large linked ski area, snowboard parks, and reliable winter snow.
Best season: November–May, depending on conditions
4. Innsbruck — Austria
A charming city surrounded by Alpine resorts. Great if you want snowboarding during the day and restaurants, cafés, and city life in the evening.
Best season: December–March
5. Dolomites — Italy
Beautiful mountain scenery, well-groomed pistes, mountain restaurants, and a wonderful choice for a scenic ski holiday.
Best season: December–March
America (USA and Canada)
6. Whistler Blackcomb — Canada
Best overall North American experience
Huge mountain terrain, beautiful scenery, a lively village, snowboard lessons, and slopes for different skill levels.
Best season: Late November–May, depending on conditions
Ski & Snowboard Guide
7. Vail — USA
Famous for the Rocky Mountains, groomed slopes, extensive terrain, and excellent mountain facilities. Ideal for a premium snow holiday.
Best season: November–April
8. Breckenridge — USA
A picturesque mountain town with a range of slopes, terrain parks, snowboard opportunities, and a fun après-ski scene.
Best season: November–April
9. Aspen Snowmass — USA
Four mountains offering different experiences, from beginner-friendly learning terrain at Buttermilk to challenging slopes for advanced riders.
Best season: Late November–April
10. Banff Sunshine Village — Canada
Stunning Canadian Rockies scenery, high-altitude slopes, and access to the wider Banff ski region. Great for combining snowboarding with a mountain holiday.
Best season: November–May, depending on conditions
Which destination should you choose?
| If you want… | My recommendation |
|---|---|
| First-time skiing or snowboarding | Livigno, Italy |
| Beautiful European mountain scenery | Zermatt, Switzerland |
| Snowboard parks and freestyle | Laax, Switzerland |
| A premium USA snow holiday | Vail, Colorado |
| A big mountain adventure in Canada | Whistler Blackcomb |
| A potentially cheaper European trip | Bansko, Bulgaria |
These are starting points; snow conditions, lift opening dates, and costs vary by season.
7 travel hacks for your snow holiday
1. Choose a cheaper ski destination.
Consider Bansko or Livigno instead of starting with expensive resorts like Aspen or Zermatt. Compare the total cost of lodging, lift tickets, rentals, and transport.
2. Stay outside the resort centre.
Book a guesthouse or apartment near a ski bus rather than slopeside accommodation. A kitchen can save you a lot on meals, especially on a week-long trip.
3. Book snowboard equipment in advance.
Compare multi-day rental packages and online discounts. Rent the board, boots, and helmet locally instead of paying airline baggage fees for your own equipment.
4. Travel outside peak dates.
Avoid Christmas, New Year, and major school holidays if possible. Early or mid-January after the holiday rush, or March outside school breaks, can offer better value. Check actual snow conditions before booking.
5. Use public transport.
European ski resorts often have train-and-bus connections. Compare the full journey from the airport before choosing a resort; a cheap flight can become expensive if transfers are difficult.
6. Buy only essential clothing.
Bring thermal base layers, gloves, and ski socks from home. Rent bulky equipment, and consider borrowing or buying second-hand outerwear rather than purchasing a full new kit.
7. Compare multi-day lift passes.
A three- or five-day pass can cost less per day than individual tickets. Compare resort-specific passes with regional passes, and check whether beginner areas require a cheaper ticket.
