Ski Holidays Christmas 2024: Best Ski Resorts for Christmas
There’s a certain magic in the air at Christmas. And there’s no place more magical than at a festive alpine ski resort. Think velvety white snow, festive markets and warming hot chocolates in front of the fire at the end of an invigorating day on the slopes.
Dreaming of a white Christmas? Christmas skiing is guaranteed to be an unforgettable experience!
Find out what’s happening across the Alps this Christmas, and how to have the best festive season yet…
Where is the best skiing at Christmas in Europe?
Picking the right alpine holiday destination to spend Christmas depends on your needs and requirements. For example, families may be looking for something a little different to couples or large groups of friends.
Luckily, the Alps deliver when it comes to variety.
The least crowded ski resorts at Christmas in Europe
Looking for a more relaxed and laid back vibe this festive season? Look no further…
Les Menuires in France
Les Menuires in France is the quietest option in the Three Valleys area so you get all of the great slopes without the crowds. This resort is particularly suited to beginners and intermediates.
Saas Fee in Switzerland
Saas Fee is a high altitude resort for those who want to catch their thrills on the mountain, whilst enjoying a laid back resort with fewer people around.
Champuloc in Italy
Champuloc could be described as a hidden gem – making it a less busy option for skiers looking for breathtaking alpine views and a range of country trails.
Affordable ski resorts for Christmas
Christmas can be an expensive time, keep costs down with a trip to one of these more affordable resorts…
La Clusaz in France
La Clusaz offers lots of easy nursery, blue and green slopes for beginners as well as affordable accommodation options. A great choice for families and beginners.
Sauze D’Oulx in Italy
Sauze D’Oulx is home to the expansive milky way ski area – a fantastic place for intermediate skiers looking for a cheaper option. The village is charming and self catering apartments can help keep costs down.
The best place to ski in December for beginners
Families looking for quality beginner ski areas and good ski schools combined with affordable accommodation and family-friendly off-piste activities will feel right at home at these Christmas ski resorts;
Best places to ski at Christmas for couples
If you’re looking to spend a romantic Christmas with your one and only, the following ski resorts provide the ideal setting for a dreamy festive break;
Best places to ski at Christmas for groups
Christmas is a great excuse to strap on those party shoes, and what better way to spend Christmas and New Year than skiing all day and dancing all night! Here’s where to go for a Christmas group ski trip with friends;
Where to go for guaranteed snow at Christmas
What’s more magical than a white Christmas in Europe? The Alps are a great place to head to if you’re looking for great snow cover, as the ski season really gets going in December.
For guaranteed snow, choose a high-altitude resort above 12,000m like some of these snow-sure ski resorts in December:
- Zermatt (1620m)
- Val d’Isere (1850m)
- Alpe d’Huez (1860m)
- Les Menuires (1850m)
- Val Thorens (2300m)
- Obergurgl (1930m)
Skiing at Christmas
Exploring lofty peaks blanketed in snow, gazing at sparkly Christmas trees in town squares and following twinkling lights all the way back to your cosy ski lodge. What could be more Chrismassy than an Alpine ski resort?
We all deserve some festive comfort this year, which is why we’re doing everything we can to get you back to the slopes!
Is Christmas a good time to go skiing?
Christmas is a big deal in ski resorts across the Alps, with many activities for families and visitors, along with vibrant bars and restaurants and an exciting après-ski scene. Here are just some of the experiences you could enjoy at this festive time of year:
- Glide across the ice at your ski resort’s ice skating rink
- Take part in winter sports and activities such as snowshoeing or dog sledding
- Get a ride in a horse drawn sleigh
- Visit Santa (Father Christmas) and his elves in his grotto
- Enjoy a tipple in an ice bar
- Watch a spectacular fireworks display
- Visit a winter wonderland
- Make merry with traditional drinks at après ski
- Take day trips to nearby Christmas markets
- Have Christmas dinner cooked for you in a luxury ski chalet
- Spend Christmas day on the slopes in festive fancy dress!
Can you ski on Christmas day?
December is a fantastic month for skiing in the Alps. Not only is there a good chance of quality snow, but there are also many festive events planned around the holidays that make a skiing holiday at this time of year extra special.
The ski season really kicks off at Christmas. Be sure to choose a high altitude, snow sure resort to get the best chance of top skiing conditions on the big day.
Are ski resorts open over Christmas?
The majority of ski resorts across the Alps are open and ready for Christmas. See our full list of ski resort openings for exact dates.
Ski holidays for Christmas 2024
Why not experience new festive traditions in different European resorts? Here’s what you can expect;
Swiss Alps Christmas Holidays
Meander through market stalls with a Glühwein (mulled wine) in hand picking up last-minute Christmas gifts or tasting homemade treats – the mighty Christmas market has it all. And Switzerland knows how to do it properly. Visit St. Moritz or Zermatt for some of the best markets around.
Another festive delight to be found in this region is real-life advent calendars. Keep your eye out for ornate calendars in village squares and lit up windows.
The Krampus run is a musical procession finishing on Christmas Eve in which masked creatures roam the streets in traditional costume. An enchanting delight for families with young children.
Top resorts for 2024 include:
- Zermatt
- St. Moritz
- Verbier
A Festive French Alps Christmas
Christmas holidays in France are bursting with lavish meals and cosy log fires. Enjoy roast turkey with chestnuts, venison or oysters followed by rich French cheeses and a chocolate Yule log. This Christmas Eve feast can go on for 6 hours!
Attend midnight mass in a traditional church on Christmas eve before waking on Christmas morning for a session on the slopes – novelty Christmas outfit compulsory.
A charming tradition for children is leaving their shoes by the fireplace in the hope that Father Noel will fill them with small presents and treats!
Top French ski resorts to visit in 2024:
- Val d Isère
- Courchevel
- Megeve
Italian Alps Christmas
With the night air filled with the alluring sound of carollers, Christmas in Italy is full of music, merriment and delicious food and wine.
Spot giant nativity scenes, eat sweet panettone (a sweet bread with dried fruits) and enjoy the relatively peaceful slopes at this time of year.
If you’re visiting Cortina in Northern Italy, don’t miss the Christmas eve midnight ski session on the slopes. Grab a torch and bring in the season in style.
Top Italian ski resorts to visit this Christmas:
- Cervinia
- Cortina
- Courmayeur
Christmas in the Austrian Alps
Each Christmas, Austrian families display an advent wreath made from green twigs, ribbons and candles. One candle is lit each Sunday during advent to the sound of carols as families gather together in celebration.
Gather round the Christmas tree at the centre of your resort as the lights are switched on to welcome Christmas eve with renditions of Silent Night and get ready to hit the slopes on Christmas morning.
Like Switzerland, markets are very popular here, with Innsbruck, Kitzbühel and the Salzburg Christmas market being some of the biggest and best.
Travel Tips for Christmas 2024 in the Alps
Planning your Christmas travel in advance is essential, especially given the seasonal demand. Holiday-goers are encouraged to check the latest entry requirements for European countries to ensure smooth passage during busy holiday periods.
FAQs
1. When is the best time to book a Christmas skiing holiday?
Luckily, Christmas skiing is still cheaper and quieter than New Years and February half term. That being said, the festive season does attract crowds so it’s best to book early to find the cheapest ski deals and top accommodation.
2. Do ski resorts have Christmas events or celebrations?
Yes, many ski resorts in the Alps go all out with Christmas alpine traditions, markets, festive decorations, and family-friendly events. Some resorts even host special Christmas Eve and Christmas Day celebrations on the slopes, adding to the holiday magic.
3. What is the best time to book my transfer for Christmas 2024?
For the busiest time of the ski season, it’s wise to book your transfer as early as possible. We recommend booking before mid-November to secure availability and the best rates for Christmas travel.
4. Is it possible to arrange airport transfers on Christmas Day?
Absolutely! Alps2Alps operates on Christmas Day and can arrange private or shared transfers to get you to your resort smoothly, even during the holiday.
5. What should I pack for a Christmas ski trip?
December can be quite chilly in the Alps, so pack extra warm clothing, layers, and waterproof gear. Consider festive attire if you plan on enjoying après-ski events or resort holiday activities. Don’t forget your ski essentials, including goggles, gloves, and sun protection.
Book Your Christmas in the Alps
Are you in the festive spirit yet? Before you don your Santa hat and start handing out the eggnog, make sure you’ve got your travel plans secured.
Here at Alps2Alps, we pride ourselves on providing affordable transfers to all the major ski resorts throughout the Alps. Our family-friendly ski transfer service begins from the moment you arrive at the airport, where your experienced driver will be ready and waiting to take you and your luggage straight to your resort.
This year, we’re offering a wider choice of vehicles, including VIP options for luxurious and spacious journeys. Simply choose your vehicle when you book.
So, why wait? Book your ski transfer with us and end the year on a high with a magical Christmas holiday in the Alps.
Reference:
GOV.UK. (n.d.). European Entry/Exit System. Travel Aware Campaign.
