In Switzerland there are about 300 ski resorts and the total length of which exceeds 7000 km, the choice is so great that the eyes run wild. And if you do not study in advance which are better suited to you, there is a risk of spoiling your vacation, because they are all different: some are more suitable for family vacations, and some for a raucous nightlife.
For 10 years of annual skiing with friends and family, we have prepared a rating of the best ski resorts so that you can plan your next perfect vacation.
And of course, we recommend booking hotels in advance to get the best option.
At the end of the article you will find practical information and tips on skiing in Switzerland, as well as a short version of the article for easy saving.
Did you know that Switzerland is the home of winter sports? Yes, Switzerland is one of the best places for a skiing or snowboarding vacation. It is full of perfect ski resorts and panoramas to admire. Other landscapes pale in comparison to what Switzerland has to offer.
But before you head to the snowy Swiss mountains, it’s important to get all the information you need: how to get there, where to stay, which ski resorts to visit and how much the whole trip will cost. Understanding all this in advance, you are guaranteed to have a good time!
At the end of this article we will give you an approximate plan of expenses for your trip.
Best ski resorts in Switzerland
My personal top 5 that I recommend to all winter vacationers.
- 🌟 The most prestigious: St. Moritz
- 👨👩👧 Best for families: Villars and Wengen
- 🏂 Best for extremists: Verbier and Laax
- ✨ For nightlife: St. Moritz and Verbier
- ⛰️ The highest slopes: Zermatt and Saas-Fee
If Switzerland’s ski resorts prove expensive for you, I recommend exploring resorts in France, Italy and Austria.
The 18 best swiss ski resorts
Now that you know what to expect from a ski/snowboarding vacation in Switzerland, let’s take a look at some of the best ski resorts.
Note: the list is quite long and if you find it hard to decide, we have prepared a short list of the top 5 best places in Switzerland at the end of this article.
1. Verbier – for experienced skiers and fans of extreme sports
- 📅 Season: December – April
- 🎿 Pistes: about 410 km (within the “Four Valleys” area), Lifts: 93
- 🏔 Altitude: from 1500 m to 3330 m above sea level (altitude difference 1830 m)
- 🛫 Nearest airport: about 160 km from Geneva airport
- 🏨 Average price per night: € 300 (Read more →)
Verbier is a Swiss ski resort best known for its fantastic nightlife, night skiing and varied pistes. The resort has pistes for beginners, intermediate and expert skiers, which will suit everyone, regardless of skiing level.
This is a party town, its nightlife almost surpasses skiing in terms of excitement. Verbier has 12 bars with great DJs and music. Speaking of music, you’ll appreciate the fact that it’s not an overly noisy resort. You will always be able to hear your conversation. If you like that, you can walk around all night long and never get bored.
If you’re not skiing, Verbier has plenty of other activities you can enjoy. Some of them include helicopter tours, fitness vacations in the mountains with breathtaking views, paragliding, snowshoeing, ice and rock climbing, sledding, and spending the day at the wellness center.
How to get there
The ski resort of Verbier is only 167 km from Geneva International Airport. It takes about 2 hours to reach Verbier by car and 3 hours by train. The nearest airport to Verbier is Sion Airport, which is 61 km away.
🛫 Traveling by car to the airport will only take 1 hour. However, this airport receives fewer flights.
Accommodation in Verbier
Luxury Class:
- Chalet d'Adrien: This 5-star hotel is known for its luxury and exquisite taste. It offers a top-notch restaurant and a large spa.
Medium price segment:
- W Verbier: Stylish and trendy hotel with a great location at the foot of the mountain. Includes spa and restaurant.
- Hotel Montpelier: Comfortable hotel with swimming pool and beautiful mountain views.
Economy class:
- Hotel Les Chamois: Budget hotel, close to the elevators, offering basic amenities.
- La Rotonde: A budget hotel with comfortable rooms and basic service, located in the center of Verbier.
2. Parsennes – the most popular in Davos
- 📅 Season: November – May
- 🎿 Pistes: about 104 km (within Parsenn), Lifts: 23
- 🏔 Altitude: from 1560 m to 2844 m above sea level (altitude difference 1284 m)
- 🛫 Nearest airport: about 150 km from Zurich Airport
- 🏨 Average price per night: € 200 (Read more →)
Parsenn is one of the most famous and popular ski areas in Davos, offering a variety of slopes for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels.
Known for its wide pistes with scattered traditional style huts. There are 15 restaurants on the mountain to satisfy your every culinary desire.
Last but not least, it is home to the longest slope. The slope was discovered in 1895 by four English tourists.
It is also ideal for families and cross-country skiing enthusiasts.
In addition to skiing activities
Non-skiing activities in Parsenn include ice hockey, ice skating, speed skating, winter walking, curling, rock climbing, indoor tennis, hang gliding and swimming.
How to get there
🛫 The nearest airport to this ski resort is St. Gallen-Altenrein Airport, which is only 116 km away.
🚗 The journey by car will take 1 hour 37 minutes and by train 2 hours 30 minutes depending on departure time.
Accommodation in Parsennes
Luxury Class:
- InterContinental Davos: A luxury hotel with modern design, a superb spa and top-notch service.
- Steigenberger Grandhotel Belvédère: Historic 5-star hotel with beautiful mountain views and a wide range of amenities.
Medium price segment:
- Hotel Meierhof Davos: Comfortable 4-star hotel offering good value for money.
- AMERON Davos Swiss Mountain Resort: A modern hotel with an excellent location and a variety of amenities.
Apartments and Guest Houses:
- Solaria Serviced Apartments: Comfortable apartments for families or groups, offering fully equipped kitchens.
Economy Class:
- Hotel Alte Post: Simple and clean hotel with basic amenities, a good option for a budget vacation.
- Hotel Ochsen 2: An economical option with comfortable rooms, located in the center of Davos.
3. St. Moritz (Canton of Graubünden) – one of the most luxurious ski area in the world
- 📅 Season: December – April
- 🎿 Pistes: about 350 km, Lifts: 56
- 🏔 Altitude: from 1720 m to 3303 m above sea level (altitude difference 1583 m)
- 🛫 Nearest airport: 229 km from Zurich Airport
- 🏨 Average price per night: € 400 (Read more →)
St. Moritz is known as one of the most prestigious ski resorts in the world. It attracts celebrities and wealthy tourists, offering high-end services and excellent conditions for winter sports.
St. Moritz has several ski slopes. The slopes are ideal for all levels: beginner, intermediate and advanced skiers. And thanks to the large number of restaurants, it is the ideal ski resort for families with children. Last but not least, the itinerary from Zermatt is breathtaking.
Beyond skiing
If you’re not on the ski slopes, you can snowshoe, go curling, ice skating, play squash or indoor tennis. In addition to these activities, you can also take helicopter tours, paraglide or go sledding.
How to get there
🚗 St. Moritz is just a few hours by train or car from Milan and Zurich.
🛫 Zurich airport is 229 km away and Milan Malpensa airport is 251 km away.
Accommodation in St. Moritz
Luxury Class:
- Badrutt's Palace Hotel: Legendary 5-star hotel with centuries of history, fine cuisine and stunning lake views.
- Kulm Hotel St. Moritz: Another historic hotel with a chic spa and excellent service.
Medium price segment:
- Hotel Schweizerhof St. Moritz: A cozy 4-star hotel with a good location and beautiful mountain views.
- Art Boutique Hotel Monopol: A modern hotel in the city center with a unique design and access to major attractions.
Apartments and Guest Houses:
- Chesa Spuondas: A cozy alpine-style guest house offering family vacations in a peaceful environment.
- Skyline House Apartments: Apartments with fully equipped kitchens, a good option for long-term stays.
Economy Class:
- Youth Hostel St. Moritz: A good option for budget accommodation with clean and simple rooms.
- Hotel Sonne St. Moritz: An economical hotel offering comfortable accommodation and basic amenities.
4. Villars – ideal for families and beginners
- 📅 Season: December – April
- 🎿 Pistes: about 125 km, Lifts: 44
- 🏔 Altitude: from 1300 m to 3000 m above sea level (altitude difference 1700 m)
- 🛫 Nearest airport: about 125 km from Geneva Airport
- 🏨 Average price per night: € 150 – € 200 (Read more →)
Villars is an acronym, the town itself is called Villars-sur-Ollon (Villars-sur-Ollon).
Medium pistes for all skiers, for experts quite short slopes. For beginners and intermediate skiers who want to improve their skiing skills, there are two ski schools. This also makes this resort ideal for children.
In addition to the school, there are centers here that offer half-day or full-day childcare for children under 7 years old.
On top of all this, there are great views of the Rhone Valley. There are plenty of bars to choose from, but all of these establishments are in town rather than on the mountain.
In addition to skiing activities
In addition to ice skating, you can enjoy any of the skiing activities listed below, as you won’t be on the slopes all day:
- Paragliding
- Bowling
- Fitness Club
- Museums
- Indoor swimming pool
- Indoor ice rink
How to get there
You can reach Villars by car or train from Geneva airport, which is 120 km away. It can also be reached from Sion airport, which is 61 km away.
Accommodation in Villars
Luxury Class:
- Chalet RoyAlp Hôtel & Spa: A luxury 5-star hotel with an indoor pool, spa and gourmet restaurant.
Medium price segment:
- Hotel Alpe Fleurie: A charming 3-star hotel with cozy rooms and a great location.
Apartments and Guest Houses:
- Domaine de La Croix de Javernaz: Cozy apartments with kitchen and terrace, ideal for families.
- Résidence Panorama: Comfortable apartments close to the center, good value for money.
Economy class:
- Hotel Ecureuil Villars: Simple and clean hotel with inexpensive rooms but all the necessary amenities.
5. Mürren – a small resort with impressive scenery and a cozy atmosphere
- 📅 Season: December – April
- 🎿 Pistes: about 54 km, Lifts: 14
- 🏔 Altitude: from 1650 m to 2970 m above sea level (altitude difference 1320 m)
- 🛫 Nearest airport: about 70 km from Bern airport
- 🏨 Average price per night: € 150 – € 250 (Read more →)
Murren is set amidst breathtaking Swiss scenery. There are slopes for experts, beginners and intermediate skiers. In addition, the ski resort is suitable for families. Children aged 3 to 5 can take lessons at the ski school, where they can learn to ski in a fun way.
Activities other than skiing
In addition to skiing and snowboarding, activities include curling, ice skating, fondue night, wellness, mountain biking, sledding and winter walks.
How to get there
🛫 The closest airports to the Swiss ski resort of Mürren are Zurich Airport and Bern Airport.
To get to Mürren from these airports, you can take the train or road to Lauterbrunnen and the cable car to Mürren.
Accommodation in Mürren
Luxury Class:
- Hotel Eiger Mürren: 4-star hotel with magnificent mountain views, elegant rooms and an excellent restaurant.
- Hotel Alpenruh: A cozy hotel with a great location and a terrace overlooking the Jungfrau.
Medium price segment:
- Hotel Alpina: A well-rated hotel with a great location and stunning mountain views.
Apartments and Guesthouses:
- Chalet Bim Chilchli: A charismatic guest house with a family atmosphere and self-catering facilities.
- Eiger Mürren Swiss Quality Hotel: Apartments with fully equipped kitchen and balcony with mountain views.
Economy class:
- Pension Sonnenberg: Simple and affordable guest house with friendly service and basic amenities.
6. Jungfrau – for those who appreciate beautiful scenery
- 📅 Season: December – April
- 🎿 Pistes: about 206 km, Lifts: 45
- 🏔 Altitude: from 796 m to 2970 m above sea level
- 🛫 Nearest airport: about 70 km from Bern airport
- 🏨 Average price per night: € 150 – € 300 (Read more →)
Jungfrau is not the name of an individual ski resort, but refers to a region in the Swiss Alps that is home to several famous ski resorts such as:
- Kleine Scheidegg – Grindelwald
- Meiringen – Hasliberg
- Schilthorn – Mürren
- Verst – Grindelwald
These resorts offer a common elevator and ski pass system, allowing skiers and snowboarders to move freely between the different areas and enjoy the varied pistes and scenery of this picturesque region.
The region is known for its panoramic views and varied runs, ideal for beginners, experts and intermediate skiers. This ski region is great for family vacations with children, as there is an excellent ski school on site.
Beyond skiing
In addition to skiing and snowboarding, you can also go paragliding and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Alps and valleys, take a romantic walk with a loved one or take part in ski lessons.
How to get there
You can drive from Bern airport. It is only 69 km away and a 1 hour 3 minute drive.
🚗 You can also drive from Basel airport, which is 173 km away.
Accommodation in Jungfrau
Luxury Class:
- Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa, Interlaken: a 5-star hotel with an upscale spa and exquisite service.
- Hotel Regina, Wengen: Elegant hotel with panoramic mountain views and comfortable rooms.
Medium price segment:
- Hotel Caprice, Wengen: A charming 3-star hotel with a great location and cozy rooms.
- Hotel Oberland, Lauterbrunnen: Cozy family hotel with friendly service and good restaurant.
Apartments and Guesthouses:
- Eiger Guesthouse, Murren: Cozy guesthouse with stunning views and a family atmosphere.
- Chalet Rosa, Lauterbrunnen: Comfortable apartment with kitchenette, suitable for long-term stays.
Economy class:
- Mountain Hostel, Grindelwald: An economical hostel for young people and budget travelers.
- Hotel Hornerpub, Lauterbrunnen: Simple and affordable hotel with basic amenities and a good location.
7. Mountain Zermatt – for year-round skiing
- 📅 Season: all year round (summer runs available on the glacier)
- 🎿 Pistes: about 360 km, Lifts: 52
- 🏔 Altitude: from 1620 m to 3883 m above sea level (altitude difference 2263 m)
- 🛫 Nearest airport: about 230 km from Zurich Airport
- 🏨 Average price per night: € 250 – € 400 (Read more →)
The slopes here can reach heights of over 3,800 meters above sea level, making it one of the highest ski resorts in Europe, offering unique skiing conditions and spectacular mountain scenery, including the famous view of the Matterhorn.
Skiing and snowboarding conditions are excellent here, with glacier skiing available in the summer. These slopes are ideal for intermediate skiers, experts and family skiers. And spectacular views of the Alps are guaranteed on the slopes.
🌟 After-ski entertainment rating – 4.5 / 5
Zermatt offers plenty of lively and fun après-ski and parties. Live music and drinks. Some of the best bars include Hennu Stall, Cervo, Pollux bar, Papperla pub and Harry’s ski bar.
In addition to ski activities
In Zermatt you can also go ice skating, curling, swimming and winter hiking. You can also take a helicopter ride and enjoy the view or relax in the spa.
How to get there
🛫 The nearest airport is in Geneva, which is only 230 km away (2 hours 40 minutes by car).
🚞 By train, the journey will take about 3 hours 50 minutes.
Accommodation in Mountain Zermatt
Luxury Class:
- Mont Cervin Palace: A luxurious 5-star hotel with elegant rooms, indoor pool and in-house chef.
- The Omnia: A modern and stylish hotel with magnificent views of the Matterhorn and a chic spa.
Medium price segment:
- Hotel Alpenhof: A cozy 4-star hotel with excellent service, restaurant and proximity to the ski elevators.
- Schlosshotel Life & Style Zermatt: Stylish hotel with modern design and good location in the center of Zermatt.
Apartments and guest houses:
- Chalet Z'Gogwärgji: Charming chalet with alpine decor and all the comforts of home.
- Haus Andorra: Spacious apartment with kitchenette, suitable for family vacations.
Economy class:
- Hotel Bahnhof: Budget hotel with clean and comfortable rooms, located near the train station.
- Youth Hostel Zermatt: An economical hostel with simple rooms and friendly service.
All hotels in Mountain Zermatt →
8. Wengen is a great choice for a family vacation
- 📅 Season: December – April
- 🎿 Pistes: about 110 km (within the Jungfrau region), Lifts: 30
- 🏔 Altitude: from 1274 m to 2320 m above sea level (altitude difference 1046 m)
- 🛫 Nearest airport: about 70 km from Bern airport
- 🏨 Average price per night: € 150 – € 250 (Read more →)
The beautiful, peaceful and serene village of Wengen, located in one of the most picturesque regions of the Swiss Alps, the Jungfrau. The ski area is connected to Grindelwald and has a variety of ski trails ideal for intermediate skiers, beginners and experts.
Amenities include restaurants and bars suitable for middle-aged couples and young families. There are also several ski schools where your children can learn skiing skills.
In addition to skiing activities
You can go curling and ice skating, sledding, swimming or swimming. You can also enjoy winter walks and watching a movie in the movie theater.
How to get there
🛫 The closest airports to Wengen are in Zurich and Bern.
The journey from Zurich will take about two hours by car and three hours by train.
Accommodation in Wengen
Luxury Class:
- Hotel Regina: Elegant 4-star hotel with exquisite rooms, spa and magnificent mountain views.
Medium price segment:
- Sunstar Hotel Wengen: Cozy family hotel with indoor pool, sauna and proximity to ski elevators.
Apartments and guesthouses:
- Chalet Bella Vista: Charming apartments with fully equipped kitchen and balcony with mountain views.
Economy Class:
- Hotel Bernerhof: Economical hotel with simple but clean and comfortable rooms, good location in the center of Wengen.
- Hotel Alpenrose Wengen: An affordable option with basic amenities and friendly service.
9. Saas-Fee
- 📅 Season: July – April (summer slopes available on the glacier)
- 🎿 Pistes: about 100 km, Lifts: 22
- 🏔 Altitude: from 1800 m to 3600 m above sea level (altitude difference 1800 m)
- 🛫 Nearest airport: about 230 km from Zurich Airport
- 🏨 Average price per night: € 150 – € 300 (Read more →)
Saas-Fee is known as one of the best family ski resorts in Switzerland. It has children’s slopes and plenty of gentle slopes suitable for beginners. There are also many ski schools here that run instructional courses and activities for children.
The slopes are also ideal for advanced and intermediate skiers. The slopes are covered in snow throughout the winter season and the scenery is immaculate.
Also known as the “Pearl of the Alps” and attracts tourists with its spectacular scenery and high-quality pistes. Thanks to the glacier, there is the possibility of skiing almost all year round.
In addition to skiing
There is plenty to do in Saas-Fee besides skiing and snowboarding. You can opt for winter walks, snowshoeing, ice climbing, tobogganing and spend the day in one of the spas.
How to get there
🛫 The closest airport to Saas-Fee is Sion airport, which is only 78 km away.
🚗 By car it is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Accommodation in Saas-Fee
Luxury Class:
- The Capra Saas-Fee: A 5-star hotel with a luxurious spa, gourmet restaurant and sophisticated interiors.
- Wellness & Spa Hotel Erlebach: Amazing hotel with magnificent mountain views and a wide range of spa services.
Medium price segment:
- Hotel Allalin: A hotel with a great location in the center of the resort, with well-appointed rooms and friendly service.
Apartments and Guest Houses:
- Apartments Auriga: Modern and well-equipped apartments with kitchens and stunning mountain views.
- Haus Allegra: Cozy apartments suitable for families, with a fully equipped kitchen.
Economy Class:
- Hotel Eden No. 7: Simple but comfortable hotel with clean rooms and affordable prices.
- Youth Hostel Saas-Fee: An economical hostel with basic facilities, ideal for young people and budget travelers.
10. Adelboden
- 📅 Season: December – April
- 🎿 Pistes: about 205 km of slopes, Lifts: 72
- 🏔 Altitude: from 1068 m to 2362 m above sea level (altitude difference 1294 m)
- 🛫 Nearest airport: about 60 km from Bern airport
- 🏨 Average price per night: € 100 – € 250 (Read more →)
Adelboden is set amidst beautiful alpine scenery and has an old-world rustic charm. It is popular for its many family-friendly facilities, including childcare. The slopes are perfect for beginner and intermediate skiers.
There are several small venues with occasional DJs and live music. Arte Lounge and Time Out Pub are the most popular in the area. But even at these establishments, don’t expect to party all night.
In addition to skiing
In addition to the slopes, there are plenty of activities and attractions, including health and beauty centers, swimming pools and sports centers with climbing walls, bowling, curling and ice skating rinks.
How to get there
🛫 The nearest airports are Bern, Basel and Zurich, 70 km, 160 km and 180 km away.
🚗 By car, Bern is only 45 minutes away.
Accommodation in Adelboden
Luxury Class:
- The Cambrian: Luxury hotel with magnificent mountain views, spa and outdoor pool.
- Parkhotel Bellevue & Spa: Elegant hotel with a beautiful pool and a wide range of spa services.
Medium price segment:
- Hotel Beau-Site: A cozy hotel with traditional Alpine style and excellent service.
- Hotel Adler Adelboden: Comfortable family hotel with a great location.
Apartments and Guest Houses:
- Ferien- und Familienhotel Alpina: Cozy apartments ideal for families.
- Chalet Aloa: Nice apartments with kitchen and stunning views.
Economy class:
- Hotel Crystal: Simple and clean hotel with affordable prices and friendly service.
11. Laax / Flims / Falera – for young people and snowboarding enthusiasts
- 📅 Season: November – April
- 🎿 Pistes: about 224 km, Lifts: 28
- 🏔 Altitude: from 1100 m to 3018 m above sea level (altitude difference 1918 m)
- 🛫 Nearest airport: about 140 km from Zurich Airport
- 🏨 Average price per night: € 200 (Read more →)
Laax, Films and Faler are combined into one ski region known as Laax or sometimes as “White Arena”. The three resorts offer a common elevator and ski pass system, allowing skiers and snowboarders to move freely between the different areas.
The runs here are long and wide, perfect for intermediate skiers, beginners and experts. In addition, many people love it for the panoramic views from the best slopes. And because there is a ski school here, it’s an ideal place to teach children the basics of skiing.
There is something to do for those who want to relax after a hard day on the slopes. Some of the après-ski you should try include Laax Bar, Legna Bar and Tegia Larnags. And you will have fun until late into the night.
You can also enjoy winter hiking, which will take about 2 hours. You can also visit the Mirasteilas Observatory or Parc la Mutta and the Yellow House.
How to get there
🚗 This resort is about 2 hours by car from Zurich airport.
Unfortunately, there is no possibility to get to Laax by train.
Accommodation in Laax, Flims and Falera
Luxury Class:
- rocksresort: Elegant apartment complex with modern design and high quality service.
- Signinahotel: 4-star hotel with spa access, restaurants and a convenient location near the ski elevators.
Medium price segment:
- PEAKS Place: Comfortable apartments with a fully equipped kitchen and spa area.
- Hotel Laaxerhof: Hotel with traditional Alpine style, cozy rooms and good cuisine.
Apartments and Guesthouses:
- Rancho Laax Apartments: Modern and cozy apartments suitable for families.
Economy Class:
- Mountain Hostel Laax: An economical option for young people and budget travelers, with shared rooms and kitchen facilities.
All hotels in Laax, Flims and Falera →
12. Val d’Annivier
- 📅 Season: December – April
- 🎿 Pistes: about 220 km, Lifts: 42
- 🏔 Altitude: from 1340 m to 3000 m above sea level (altitude difference may vary from resort to resort)
- 🛫 Nearest airport: about 200 km from Geneva airport
- 🏨 Average price per night: € 100 – € 250 (Read more →)
Val d’Annivier is a valley in the Swiss Alps, located in the canton of Valais. It is a beautiful place known for its beautiful scenery, ski resorts and hiking trails.
Val d’Anniviers is home to 3 ski resorts. These resorts include Grimentz, Saint-Luc and Vercorin.
The ski runs are varied and suitable for both beginners and experienced skiers. In addition to alpine skiing, opportunities for snowboarding, freeride and other winter sports are also available there.
Non-skiing activities include walking and skating at the ice rink (it’s free). Sleigh rides are available on the slopes at night.
How to get there
The quickest route is via Sion airport. It is only 29 km away (30 minutes by car).
However, it is also possible to get there via Geneva airport. Geneva airport is only 2 hours away via the A9 or A1 highway.
Accommodation in Val d’Annivier
Luxury Class:
- Chandolin Boutique Hotel, Chandolin: A luxury boutique hotel with stunning mountain views and fine dining.
- Hotel Bella Tola & St-Luc, St-Luc: Historic 4-star hotel with beautiful interiors and a superb spa.
Medium price segment:
- Hôtel Cristal, Grimentz: A modern and cozy hotel with a convenient location near the ski elevators.
- Hôtel Le Beausite, Saint-Luc: Traditional Alpine hotel with a beautiful view of the valley.
Apartments and guesthouses:
- Hôtel Mélèze: A cozy traditional style hotel with modern amenities.
Economy Class:
- Résidence Platane B, Grimentz: A budget hotel suitable for travelers looking for economical accommodation.
All hotels in Val d'Annivier →
13. Engelberg – for glacier lovers
- 📅 Season: October – May
- 🎿 Pistes: about 82 km, Lifts: 28
- 🏔 Altitude: from 1050 m to 3020 m above sea level (altitude difference 1970 m)
- 🛫 Nearest airport: about 90 km from Zurich Airport
- 🏨 Average price per night: € 150 – € 300 (Read more →)
This is one of the best places for freeride and powders. It is prone to storms that accumulate fresh snow on the slopes and create perfect skiing conditions. When the sun shines, the slopes offer amazing views.
There are plenty of recreational and family facilities, including restaurants and a ski school.
Activities beyond skiing
If skiing and snowboarding aren’t enough for you, you can take a cable car ride on the glaciers, go paragliding, ice walking and walk on a suspension bridge over a cliff.
How to get there
🛫 The closest airport to this ski resort is in Zurich.
It is 100 km away, just 2 hours by train and 1 hour 20 minutes by car.
Accommodation in Engelberg
Luxury Class:
- Hotel Schweizerhof Engelberg: 4-star hotel with elegant rooms, spa and gourmet restaurant.
- H+ Hotel & SPA Engelberg: A luxury hotel with a wide range of amenities including a swimming pool and sauna.
Medium price segment:
- Hotel Bellevue-Terminus: Stylish and modern hotel in the center of Engelberg with comfortable rooms.
- Hotel Hoheneck: A cozy hotel with friendly service, popular with skiers.
Apartments and guest houses:
- Alpenclub Hotel: Apartments with kitchen and mountain views, suitable for family vacations.
- Pension St. Jakob: A traditional Alpine-style guest house with a homely atmosphere.
Economy class:
- Berghotel Trübsee: An economical option with stunning mountain views and direct access to the slopes.
- Spannort Hostel & Hotel: A budget hotel with basic amenities suitable for young people and budget travelers.
14. Crans-Montana – for all levels, with an emphasis on luxury
- 📅 Season: November – April
- 🎿 Pistes: about 140 km, Lifts: 24
- 🏔 Altitude: from 1500 m to 2927 m above sea level (altitude difference 1427 m)
- 🛫 Nearest airport: about 180 km from Geneva airport
- 🏨 Average price per night: € 200 – € 350 (Read more →)
Crans-Montana offers plenty of off-piste skiing opportunities and beautiful scenery. The Snowpark adds to its benefits and makes this resort popular with freestylers and snowboarders.
This destination attracts skiers and snowboarders as well as those looking for a luxury vacation with access to spas, shopping and other activities.
How to get there
🛫 The closest airports to Crans-Montana are Sion Airport and Bern Airport, with distances of 14.95 km and 68.43 km.
Accommodation in Crans-Montana
Luxury Class:
- LeCrans Hotel & Spa: Exclusive 5-star hotel with panoramic mountain views, spa and gourmet restaurant.
- Hostellerie du Pas de l'Ours: A luxury hotel in a traditional chalet with exquisite rooms and upscale service.
Medium price segment:
- Hotel Art de Vivre: A modern and comfortable hotel with great views and a good location.
- Hotel La Prairie: A cozy family hotel with excellent value for money.
Apartments and guest houses:
- LeCrans: A cozy guest house with a friendly atmosphere and homemade breakfast.
Economy class:
- Youth Hostel Crans-Montana: A youth hostel suitable for travelers on a tight budget, with shared rooms and a kitchen.
15. Champery – for those looking for piste variety
- 📅 Season: December to April
- 🎿 Pistes: about 650 km (within the “Porte du Soleil” area), Lifts: 201 within the area
- 🏔 Altitude: from 1050 m to 2300 m above sea level (altitude difference 1250 m)
- 🛫 Nearest airport: about 130 km from Geneva airport
- 🏨 Average price per night: € 100 – € 250 (Read more →)
Champery is part of one of the largest ski regions in the world, the “Porte du Soleil”, which brings together 12 resorts in Switzerland and France.
This is by far the oldest and most beautiful ski resort in Switzerland. It is famous for having one of the largest ski areas in the world. With such a vast area there is sure to be something for everyone, beginners and experts alike.
If that’s not enough skiing for you during the day, you can continue skiing at night, on Wednesdays and Saturdays. There are plenty of family-friendly amenities here, including a ski school and children’s pool.
You can also enjoy the beautiful scenery here.
There are also several activities that you can try. These include playing darts, horseback riding, farm visits, snowshoeing and curling.
How to get there
🛫 The nearest airports are in Geneva and Sion. Sion is 62 km away and Geneva is 130 km away.
You can travel by car or by train.
Accommodation in Champery
Luxury Class:
- Hôtel National Resort & Spa: A luxury hotel with a great spa, excellent restaurant and comfortable rooms.
Medium Price Segment:
- Art.Boutique.Hotel Beau-Séjour: A cozy, family-run, Alpine-style hotel with excellent service.
Apartments and guesthouses:
- Chalet Suisse: Chalets with fully equipped kitchens and a convenient location close to the slopes.
Economy Class:
- Backpacker du Petit Baroudeur: A budget hostel with shared rooms and kitchen, a great choice for young people and budget travelers.
16. Gstaad
- 📅 Season: December to April
- 🎿 Pistes: about 220 km (within the Gstaad area), Lifts: 53 within the area
- 🏔 Altitude: from 1200 m to 2000 m above sea level (altitude difference 800 m)
- 🛫 Nearest airport: about 150 km from Geneva airport
- 🏨 Average price per night: € 200 – € 400 (Read more →)
The ski region of Gstaad is known for its luxury and elegance.
It has a ski school and children’s slopes where kids and beginners alike will spend their first couple of days learning the basics. In addition, this ski resort has slopes for intermediate and expert levels. While kids have a great time in the children’s room, adults will appreciate the views from the slopes.
There is also a long list of restaurants to choose from. These restaurants offer Swiss, French, Italian, Japanese and Chinese cuisine.
With so much nightlife, bars take a back seat to entertainment. However, there are clubs that offer live music and entertainment throughout the night. If you are tired of skiing, you can hike the slopes or go sledding.
How to get there
🚞 You can reach this ski resort by car or train from Zurich Airport. The trip takes just 1 hour and 55 minutes.
🚗 The trip will take 2.5 hours by car and 3 hours by train.
Note: when you arrive by car, there is little information or guidance about parking lots or train stations. Therefore, if you are traveling by car, it is better to contact the resort in advance for travel guidance.
Accommodation in Gstaad
Luxury Class:
- Gstaad Palace Hotel: Legendary 5-star hotel with luxurious rooms, spa and several restaurants.
- Le Grand Bellevue: A sophisticated hotel with elegant design and excellent facilities including a sauna and swimming pool.
Medium price segment:
- Hotel de Rougemont: Stylish 4-star hotel with comfortable rooms and a cozy lounge with fireplace.
- Boutique Hotel Alpenrose: A family-run hotel with traditional Swiss decor and friendly staff.
Apartments and guest houses:
- Gasthof Bären: A traditional guest house with a homely atmosphere and delicious breakfast.
Economy Class:
- Posthotel Rössli: Budget hotel in the center of Gstaad with simple but clean and cozy rooms.
- Youth Hostel Gstaad Saanenland: An economical option for young people and budget travelers, offering shared rooms.
17. Grindelwald – for those who appreciate views of the swiss alps
- 📅 Season: December – April
- 🎿 Pistes: about 160 km (within the Jungfrau region), Lifts: 30
- 🏔 Altitude: from 1034 m to 2500 m above sea level (altitude difference 1466 m)
- 🛫 Nearest airport: about 70 km from Bern airport
- 🏨 Average price per night: € 150 – € 300 (Read more →)
Grindelwald is one of the most famous ski resorts in Switzerland, located in the canton of Bern. It is known for its spectacular scenery, including views of the famous Eiger, Mench and Jungfrau mountains.
It is also the starting point for the famous hike to Mount Eiger, one of the most famous mountains in the Alps. Many hiking trails and ski trails are available for those who prefer outdoor activities.
How to get there
You can reach this ski resort by car or train from Zurich Airport. The trip will take only 1 hour and 55 minutes.
Note: when you arrive by car, there is little information or guidance about parking lots or train stations. Therefore, if you are traveling by car, it is best to contact the resort in advance for travel recommendations.
The trip will take 2.5 hours by car and 3 hours by train.
Accommodation in Grindelwald
Luxury Class:
- Romantik Hotel Schweizerhof: A luxurious 5-star hotel with exquisite rooms, spa and gourmet restaurant.
Medium price segment:
- Belvedere Swiss Quality Hotel: Beautiful hotel with modern design and chic mountain views.
- Hotel Kreuz & Post: A cozy, family-run hotel close to the elevators and slopes.
Apartments and Guest Houses:
- Jungfrau Lodge, Annex Crystal: Well-equipped apartments with self-catering facilities.
- Chalet Bargbachli: Traditional Alpine chalet with cozy rooms and friendly staff.
Economy class:
- Jungfrau Lodge, Swiss Mountain Hotel: An economical option with simple but clean and comfortable rooms, ideal for young people and budget travelers.
18. Arosa Lenzerheide is an ideal vacation for freeriding
- 📅 Season: December – April
- 🎿 Pistes: about 225 km, Lifts: 43
- 🏔 Altitude: from 1230 m to 2865 m above sea level (altitude difference 1635 m)
- 🛫 Nearest airport: about 150 km from Zurich Airport
- 🏨 Average price per night: € 150 – € 300 (Read more →)
Arosa Lenzerheide is a combined ski region including the resorts of Arosa and Lenzerheide, located in a sunny area in a valley surrounded by mountains. An ideal place for a winter vacation.
It is great for intermediate skiers, experts and beginners. If you are a freeride enthusiast, you can enjoy the off-piste runs.
The Arosa Junior Club offers many activities suitable for children as well as numerous discounts. This alone makes it an ideal place for a family vacation.
In addition to skiing
You can go ice skating by the lake or sledding between Inner Arosa and the resort. You can also spend a day at the spa to pamper yourself and soothe your muscles.
How to get there
Arosa is located 160 kilometers from Zurich. You can reach Arosa by road or rail from Zurich airport. However, the final climb to Arosa is rife with twists and turns (365).
Besides, once you get to the resort, you will barely need a car. For this reason, many people prefer to travel by train.
🚗 From Zurich Airport, the trip by car will take about 2 hours and 20 minutes. Other nearby airports include Friedrichshafen Airport and Memmingen Airport, located 155 km and 195 km away respectively.
Accommodation in Arosa Lenzerheide
Luxury Class:
- Tschuggen Grand Hotel: a 5-star hotel with its own ski elevator, spa and exquisite rooms.
- Arosa Kulm Hotel & Alpin Spa: A luxury hotel with a wide range of facilities including a swimming pool and several restaurants.
Medium price segment:
- Hotel Alpensonne: A cozy, family-run hotel with gorgeous mountain views and comfortable rooms.
- Home Hotel Arosa: A trendy and stylish hotel, ideal for young people and couples.
Apartments and guest houses:
- Chesigna 2: Cozy apartments with fully equipped kitchen.
- Haus Derby 14: Comfortable apartments close to the ski elevators.
Economy class:
- Arosa Vetter Hotel: Simple and inexpensive hotel in the center of the resort.
All hotels in Arosa Lenzerheide →
Cost of skiing and snowboarding in Switzerland
Skiing vacations in Switzerland can be expensive. However, this is not always the case. There are some inexpensive options you can take advantage of.
Meals
If the hotel doesn’t include breakfast in its offer, you’ll have to pay between €5.94 and €9.90. For lunch, there are plenty of places that serve informal meals at affordable prices. Prices range from € 7,92 to € 14,85. For dinner, you can save money on takeaway options: prices range from € 17,82 to € 24,75.
If a restaurant doesn’t include breakfast in its offer, you’ll have to pay between € 5,94 and € 9,90. For lunch, there are plenty of places that serve informal dishes at affordable prices. Prices range from € 7,92 to € 14,85.
For dinner, you can save money on takeaway options: prices range from € 17,82 to € 24,75.
Drinks
A bottle of wine will cost you from € 6 to € 7 or more. Many options cost from € 13. At the grocery store, a six-pack of beer costs between € 6.5 and € 8.5.
In restaurants and bars, draught beer costs between € 3.5 and € 4.5, while a bottle of wine and a shot of liquor cost € 22 and € 8.9 respectively.
Accommodation
Prices vary depending on the comfort level and location of the hotel. However, prices start from € 36 and can go up to € 555.
- Limited budget. On average, assuming you get the best deals on hotels, are frugal on food and don’t travel much, you should spend around € 70 per day.
- Mid-range. If you’re looking for a combination of deals and comfort at a low price, spend around €150. For that price, you’ll get a pretty decent meal and sleep in an Instagram-worthy hotel.
- VIP. If you’re looking for a VIP vacation, there’s no limit to how much you can spend. Some VIPs can even spend €25,000 on a bottle of champagne (plated in gold). However, for VIP treatment, most guests spend €500 per night.
How to get there
By airplane. Switzerland’s largest airport is in Zurich, followed by Geneva and Basel. Most people arrive in Switzerland via Zurich.
Train or car. If you live in Europe, you can get to Switzerland by train or car. For example, from London to Zurich, you can take a train to Paris. The trip takes about 5 hours and 23 minutes and costs about €70 for a one-way ticket and €130 for a round-trip ticket.
You can also reach Switzerland by car. For example, Paris is 606 kilometers from Zurich. In addition to fuel costs, you will have to pay a toll of 40 euros.
What is the most famous ski resort in Switzerland?
The most famous ski resort in Switzerland is Zermatt. The Matterhorn peak can be seen from anywhere in this resort and it attracts a large number of tourists, both novice skiers and experienced athletes. Zermatt is also famous for its luxurious hotels, restaurants and rich cultural program.
Are there many ski resorts in Switzerland?
Yes, there are more than 200 ski resorts in Switzerland – a total of 7,300+ kilometers of pistes, not counting 5,000 kilometers of cross-country ski trails.
Can I ski in Switzerland in summer?
Yes! There are ski areas in the high mountain regions where, thanks to the glaciers, it is possible to ski in summer. For example, Zermatt and Saas Fee.
Where is it cheaper to ski in Switzerland?
Switzerland in general is known for its high prices, but there are a few resorts where you can find more affordable prices for skiing. Here are a few of them: Murren and Wengen, Crans-Montana and Saas-Fee, Verbier, Zermatt.
