Top 3 Reasons for a Family Ski Vacation in Europe
Introduction
Fact: A one-week family ski vacation in Europe can cost as little as one-third of what you'd shell out for the same experience in North America. For families who've hit the slopes in Europe before, this won’t raise any eyebrows. But for those still nursing inflation scars, Europe suddenly becomes a very appealing destination.
So, why should you choose a family ski vacation in European? The answer lies in three “C” words: cost, convenience, and culture.
This article breaks down those three Cs, comparing top U.S. and European resorts while highlighting key things you’ll want to know before planning that big family ski trip to the Alps. I’ll focus on the highest prices you’re likely to encounter during Europe’s peak season (think mid-February, when the entire continent seems to be on holiday). If you opt to ski during the low season—early December, most of January, or March through April—the prices drop even further, making Europe an even bigger bargain. And if you're on the fence about when to go, check out The Chalet Company’s thoughtful article on timing, especially their Venn diagram on whether you crave powder, magic, space, or just a killer deal.
While cost is a major focus, don’t underestimate the importance of convenience and culture. These are the ingredients that turn a trip into a lifetime of family memories. Think affordable ski-in/ski-out lodgings designed for families, charming Christmas markets, festivals like Fasching (Europe's version of Mardi Gras), and all those little moments in the Alps that make the trip extra special.
To provide a decent sample for data, I selected the following top resorts in the Rocky Mountains, US East Coast, Austria, Italy, France, and Switzerland:
Vail Ski Resort, Colorado
Killington Ski Resort, Vermont
Kitzbühel (KitzSki), Tirol, Austria
Colfosco (Calfosch, Kolfuschg) (Dolomiti Superski), Alta Badia, Südtirol/Alto-Adige, Italy
Laax (Flims Laax Falera), Graubünden, Switzerland
Méribel (Trois Vallées), Auverge-Rhône-Alpes, France
1. Cost
The first, and arguably most compelling, reason to take your family skiing in Europe? Cost. Let’s be real—ski vacations are pricey, especially when you’re wrangling kids, and no one’s ever muttered, “I wish I could’ve paid more for that.” Good news, parents: a ski trip to Europe can cost substantially less than a comparable trip in North America.
Take my in-laws in Pennsylvania, for example. They recently budgeted a family ski trip for four, with kids aged 5 to 10. After crunching the numbers, their upcoming March getaway to Italy is coming in at a whopping 66% less than a week-long ski holiday in Colorado.
Of course, a few factors come into play here. First, if you live within driving distance of a ski resort, your travel costs are naturally lower. But if you’re on the East Coast and dreaming of the Rockies, here’s a little surprise for you: it might be cheaper to fly to Zurich, Munich, Innsbruck, or Venice than to Denver or Salt Lake City. East Coasters, take note.
Second, if you’ve already invested in an Ikon or Epic season pass, you’re probably in good shape—those passes can save you a bundle compared to buying day tickets for a six-day trip. And that’s really the genius behind the Vail and Altera business models: get you to commit early, grab your money upfront, offer global skiing perks, and then leave the rest scrambling for overpriced day passes if they didn’t lock in last spring.
Ski Schools
Let’s look at the cost of ski schools. There are three important things to consider when assessing the total value of ski instruction in Europe versus the US: (1) cost, (2) transparency, and (3) quality.
Cost
As to cost, ski school in Europe is simply far more affordable than in the US. Here are some head-to-head comparisons looking at group lessons for kids and both group and private lessons for adults. I applied the following criteria when collecting the data:
Peak prices. To capture the highest possible prices in Europe, I selected a week in mid-February
Full-day lessons. I sought prices for full-day lessons (usually 6 hours)
Group and Private. I sought prices for both group lessons and private lessons.
Exchange rate. I assume $1.11 to €1, and $1.18 to CHF 1, though you should check current rates when you plan and book.
Please also note that in Europe there are usually several different ski schools in each village competing for your business. Prices will vary (slightly). Programs and timing will vary. Some schools will not offer single day group lessons. Other schools will expect 6 day registrations. European families usually ski for at least one week, but sometimes two weeks. It's unvarnished communism.
Please reference the following links for pricing at the ski schools I selected:
Vail ski and snowboard lessons
Killington ski lessons
Rote Teufel Ski School Kitzbühel
Ski and Snowboard School Colfosco
Ski School Laax
Prosneige Ski School Meribel
Group Ski Lessons for Children
Ski schools on both sides of the Atlantic welcome children as young as four, provided they’re potty trained. In Europe, ski instruction typically kicks off with Skikindergarten. Picture it: most of the day spent on playtime, arts, and crafts, with a brief one- or two-hour ski lesson thrown in to get kids comfortable on the slopes.
But once they hit that magical age of four, it’s game on. In Europe, it’s perfectly normal to see little ones skiing without poles for the first few years. Frankly, I recommend this approach for adults learning to ski too—poles can be more of a distraction (or hazard) than a help at the beginning.
Start times vary by resort, but generally, you’ll want your kid at the meetup point by 9:30 a.m. (give or take). In North America, the ski day wraps up around 3 p.m., but in Europe, lessons often stretch until 3:30 or 4 p.m.—because why not squeeze in every minute of snow time?
Many ski schools offer discounted rental equipment and lift passes for kids, but the specifics vary depending on the resort. Keep an eye out for local deals that can make your trip even more affordable.
Cost of group ski lessons for children for one day
Cost of group ski lessons for children for five days
Vail - Child Group Ski Lesson
Vail group lessons can be reserved for one (1) to five (5) days. Lessons for younger skiers are from 09:30 to 15:00/3pm, while older kids from seven (7) to 15 ski until 15:30/3:30pm. The prices in the table below reflect the “online” prices. Expect that lessons purchased over the phone or in person will cost more. Vail offers prices with or without equipment and ski passes. Prices in the table below are without equipment and ski passes.
Killington - Child Group Ski Lesson
Lessons are sold for 1, 2, or 3-day increments. The day starts at 09:00 and ends at 15:00/3pm. Groups are capped at 5 students for more personalized instruction. Discounts may apply if you book in advance rather than the day of. Helmets are required. Equipment is not included. Lift tickets are not included.
Link to Ministars ski lessons at Killington (ages 4 to 6)
Link to youth group ski lessons at Killington (ages 7 to 17)
Kitzbühel, Austria - Child Group Ski Lesson
Children 6 years old and younger receive a free ski pass for the same duration as their parents. Children’s group lessons can be booked for one (1) to six (6) days at a time. Lunch can be provided for €15 each day.
Colfosco, Italy - Child Group Ski Lesson
Children 8 years old and younger receive a free lift ticket for the same length of time as their parent’s ski pass. Generally, ski school students receive a 10% discount on ski equipment rentals, but this discount is also usually offered through a guest’s hotel relationship with a ski shop.
Full-day ski school runs from 10:00 to 16:15/4:15 pm. Who wants to get up early on holiday? Maybe you want two cornettos and cappuccinos?
Link to children’s group ski lessons in Colfosco (children and teenagers)
Laax
Children 5 years old and younger ski for free at Laax. Access is free to the snow wonderland beginner slopes. Once a child reaches six (6) years of age, they must have a lift ticket. Ski school runs from 10:00 to 15:30/3:30pm. Neither lift tickets nor ski equipment are included in the cost of ski instruction.
I highlight Laax because it is a renowned destination for snowboarders. Laax is one of the most, if not THE most famous snowboard haven in Europe. It is home to the world’s largest half pipe, five (5) snowparks, and three (3) winter “snow wonderlands”. For over a decade it has hosted the Laax Open, an annual event that is a mainstay of the FIS Snowboard and Freeski World Cup. Laax offers snowboard freestyle academy courses if your child wants to get serious. The Laax Freestyle Academy even provides an indoor skateboard park and other fun activities for kids.
Link to children’s ski lessons in Laax (2023/24)
Méribel
Children four (4) years old and under ski for free at Méribel. At the Prosneige Ski School, group lessons for children are sold in six (6) day increments - they offer no single day group instruction. This appears to be the case with other Méribel ski schools (please comment if you know of one that offers single day group lessons!). Again, most families coming to the 3 Vallées are staying for at least one week, unless they are locals. Private single-day instruction is always available, of course.
Ability level is measured by how many weeks the child has been skiings (e.g., how many ski vacations they’ve been on). Group size is capped at 7 skiers. Ski lessons run from 09:00 until 17:00/5pm with a two-hour French lunch break (Lunch Club included in some packages, otherwise a pocket sandwich is recommended). Equipment and ski passes are not included.
Adult Group Ski Lessons
Cost of group ski lessons for adults
Vail - Adult Group Ski Lesson
Group full-day ski lessons for adults are sold in only one or two-day increments. Lessons are offered for beginner and intermediate level adults - not for advanced adults. A lesson for one day is $375 per adult (online price) ($520 with 1-day equipment and lift tickets), or $700 for two days (online price) ($1,040 with 2-day equipment and lift tickets).
Ski school runs from 10:00 to 15:30/3:30pm (note that lessons for young skiers under seven years old end at 15:00/3pm).
Killington - Adult Group Ski Lesson
Killington offers adult group lessons only for first time skiers and for beginner-level skiers. Adult group lessons are not offered for intermediate or advanced skiers. Adult group lessons are sold as two-hours sessions beginning at either 09:30 or 12:45. Discounts apply if you book in advance.
Equipment and lift tickets are included for first-time adult skiers.
Equipment and lift tickets are not included for beginner-level adult group lessons.
Kitzbühel, Austria - Adult Group Ski Lesson
Kitzbühel offers group adult ski classes for all abilities. This is one way adults (like my parents) networked and met new friends. Class size is limited to nine (9) skiers. Equipment is not included. Lift tickets are not included.
Group classes are purchased in 1, 2, or 3-day increments. Classes begin at 09:30 and no end time is given … Usually, the adults go directly to après ski if they’re not picking up children.
Colfosco, Italy - Adult Group Ski Lesson
The concept is a bit more Italian in Colfosco. To accommodate parents with children in ski school, parents can sign up for four (4) or five (5) days of all-day group lessons. But there are no group lessons for adults for just one, two, or three days. Instead, adults may prefer a leisurely private lesson with a well tanned, modelesque ski instructor, or get a massage, sip Aperol Spritzes or Hugos in a sun chair, or stuff their maws with local pasta and dumplings. Group lessons run from 10:00 to 16:00/4pm.
Laax
Laax offers group beginner courses for adults that are charged per day (CHF 129 / $151). The resort also offers an adult 3-day course for more advanced skiers, but only two hours each day (11:30 to 13:30/1:30pm) (CHF 264 / $310). This leaves mornings open to get kids to ski school, enjoy a mug of Ovomaltine, chug a bucket of hot, delicious fondue, and then relax in a sauna and fresh hay bed before picking up the kiddos at 15:30/3:30pm.
Link to adult group ski lessons in Laax (2023/24)
Méribel
Méribel offers adult group classes in packages of six (6) ski days. Instruction is for six (6) hours per day and class size is capped at seven (7) skiers. Ability levels are determined initially by the number of weeks an adult has skied.
Private Lessons
The lower cost of group lessons in Europe naturally leads to the next question: how much are private lessons? In a nutshell, private instruction in Europe is more aligned with the cost of private lessons on the U.S. East Coast but runs about half the price of what you'd pay in the Rockies. Prices are generally listed per day.
One key difference is that European group lessons don’t have strict size limits. So, in theory, you could have a group of 10. But for every extra skier, expect to tack on an additional €14/$15 to €30/$33 per person. As always, ski equipment and lift tickets aren’t included, so budget accordingly.
Here’s the breakdown:
Cost of private ski lessons - 5 days
Vail - Private Ski Lessons
Full-day private ski lessons are capped at six (6) skiers at Vail. All skiers must be of the same ability level. Guests save money by reserving online rather than at the window. Lessons begin at 09:00 and end at 15:30/3:30pm.
Killington - Private Ski Lessons
Killington offers private lessons for 1.5 hours, three (3) hours, and six (6) hours for a full day. A private lesson accommodates any skier ages 3+ for up to 6 skiers, so families with children are ideal so long as there are fewer than 7 members. Private lessons begin at 09:00.
If a guest cancels before 16:00/4pm two days prior to the class, the guest may receive a 90% refund or a 100% credit for a future private lesson. If a guest cancels within the 2-day period before a class, there are no refunds. You can read the Killington resort cancellation policy on their website.
Kitzbühel, Austria - Private Ski Lessons
Private ski lessons are charged hourly in Kitzbühel. The difference between high season and low season rates is only €20 per hour. If you add family members or friends, €30 is charged per additional guest (per day, not per hour, by the way, which is better than in Colfosco).
Note that Kitzbühel also offers “Private Alpine Expert” instruction, which is more advanced ski instruction for excellent skiers. This costs €2.250 / $2,510 for five (5) days of instruction. Each additional student is only €30 / $33 extra per student.
Colfosco, Italy - Private Ski Lessons
Like Kitz, Corvara offers hourly rates for private instruction with a small fee for each additional participant, but each additional student pays €14 / $15 per hour. There is also a shorter 1.5 hour option each morning from 08:30 to 10:00. The high-season prices are €10 to €12 more per hour than low season.
Laax
Private lessons in Laax are offered in two hour increments for up to 2 people. There is a diminishing upcharge per additional skier added to the group, starting at €30/$33 per skier. When you select a private lesson for five days, you can choose your start and end times.
Méribel
Méribel offers private lessons by the day, which starts at 09:00 and ends at 17:00/5pm. The cost for six (6) skiers in the high season for five (5) days is €3.400/$3,771.
Transparency
I bring up transparency in cost analysis because there’s nothing worse than feeling misled, manipulated, or exploited during a transaction—especially when planning a vacation. I want to be treated like a valued guest, not just a number in a revenue-generating algorithm.
That’s why I appreciate the straightforward pricing approach most European ski schools use. It’s refreshingly transparent. Costs are easy to calculate, and aside from different rates for high and low seasons, there’s no dynamic pricing to navigate.
Unlike North American resorts, European ski schools generally don’t often offer incentives for booking early or online. Their price lists are available year-round, with no surprise changes as the season approaches. In a few places (Switzerland and Italy), this is beginning to change.
In contrast, U.S. resorts tend to cloak their pricing strategies in a bit more mystery and dynamism. Ski school prices are often reworked over the summer and trickle online by late summer, divided into multiple categories and subcategories—age, ability level, equipment rental (is it really a deal?), preferred mountain or meeting point, and whether you’re skiing or snowboarding.
In North America, you’re never quite sure if you’re getting the best price. As you navigate resort websites, you might see one rate when hovering over a date, another rate that’s been crossed out (supposedly the "full price"), and a lower “book now” price. Booking well in advance, online, or using a discount code usually scores you a better deal.
But beware: if you wait until the last minute to book—say, the week or day before—or decide to pay in person, you’ll likely end up with the highest rate. The whole process can feel unnecessarily complicated and, frankly, a bit stressful.
Quality
The final piece of the cost puzzle is the quality of instruction. From my personal experience, the quality of ski instruction in Europe consistently outshines that in North America. This isn’t a knock on the fantastic instructors in the U.S. and Canada—it's simply that the approach and culture of ski teaching in Europe are different. And I’d argue that Europe’s dominance in FIS World Cup races and the Winter Olympics speaks volumes. U.S. ski legends like Mikaela Shiffrin, Lindsey Vonn, Barbara Cochran, Bode Miller, Ted Ligety, and Daron Rahlves become even more impressive when you consider the competitive landscape they’ve had to overcome.
In Europe, the barriers to becoming a ski instructor are steep—especially in places like Austria and Italy. For instance, to become a top-level independent instructor (skiführer) in Austria, candidates must ski a World Cup-level giant slalom course and finish within 20% of the world record time. Not surprisingly, only about 20% of applicants pass. In Italy, many instructors were former competitive racers, having honed their skills from a young age.
When it comes to teaching children, European schools focus on balance, technique, etiquette, and respect from the get-go. If a child shows promise, they might find themselves in a private ski club before they can spell “ski.” It’s a different world.
Children spend just enough time on the magic carpet to get the basics down—once they’ve mastered stopping on command, turning, and standing up after a fall, they’re off to the mountain. It’s not unusual to see lines of tiny skiers, sans poles, in matching cartoon-themed bibs, making their way down blue slopes—even from the highest peaks.
Interestingly, each country, and sometimes even each region, has its own distinctive teaching style. In Austria’s Tyrol region, the focus is on keeping the upper body still and pointing the chest downhill while the legs do all the work, shoulder-width apart in a typical athletic stance. In Italy, the style is more fluid, with the hips driving the turns and legs closer together—it’s a bit like dancing on skis, and it’s beautiful to watch. After just a few days on the slopes, you’ll likely be able to distinguish between the Austrian-trained skiers and their Italian counterparts.
European ski schools also offer a host of fun activities and events to keep kids engaged. Think ski treasure hunts, obstacle courses, dexterity competitions, night slalom races, video analysis for technique, and even crazy helmet decoration days. The highlight of the week is usually a slalom race where every student competes. It’s a full production: kids wear numbered bibs, there’s a live announcer, and the race concludes with a podium ceremony. Only the top three get trophies, but every participant walks away with a medal and certificate.
Back in the day (yes, when I was a kid), the ski school week wrapped up with a formal awards dinner, where pins were handed out based on skill level. Things are a bit less formal now, but the tradition of celebrating improvement and achievement remains a central part of the European ski school experience.
Lift Tickets and Rentals
The price gap between Europe and North America for a single-day ski pass is nothing short of infamous. In North America, if you plan to ski for more than three or four days, you're practically forced to buy an Epic or Ikon season pass to avoid draining your bank account. In Europe, however, a single-day adult ski pass typically maxes out at around $83—roughly what you would have paid in Aspen... back in the '90s.
Age categories for lift tickets / ski passes
Lift Tickets
It’s no secret: lift tickets in North America can be more than three times the cost of those in Europe—unless, of course, you’re talking about season passes like Ikon and Epic. The silver lining for families traveling from North America to Europe is that you won’t need to remortgage the house just to cover ski passes. In many cases, the age limit for free child tickets in Europe is higher than in the U.S., and the price of a six-day ski pass is typically a third of what you’d pay in North America. For adults, the savings are even more significant.
I’ve summarized some key comparisons below, highlighting the cost differences for both single-day and six-day (or one-week) ski passes. I haven’t factored in senior discounts, which tend to be even more generous. In some European resorts, "super senior" tickets are practically free—a well-deserved perk for a lifetime of skiing.
To keep things fair, I chose mid-February for this comparison, illustrating the highest possible rates you might encounter in Europe. If you’re skiing in the low season—early December, January, or from March through April—the prices are even sweeter!
Cost of lift tickets / ski passes for one day
Cost of lift tickets / ski passes for six days
Vail
At Vail, children ages four (4) years and younger ski for free. The next price category is for children ages 5 to 12. Children ages 13 years and older must pay the full adult rate. Ouch.
Vail is an Epic resort. As with ski lessons, the system rewards early, online reservations. The earlier you book, the more you are “rewarded.” Tickets purchased after October and in person command the absolute highest prices.
Killington
At Killington, children six (6) years old and younger ski for free, which is a bit more generous. Additionally, the youth pass covers children from seven (7) to 17 years old. A child pays the full adult fare when they reach age 18.
As with other US resorts, booking in advance and online is rewarded. Same day purchases are punished pretty significantly here.
Kitzbühel
Kitzbühel organizes skiers into four categories: infants, children, youths, and adults. Infants, defined as six years old and younger, ski for free. Children fall between the ages of seven and 16, while "youths" cover those from 17 to 19. Adult rates kick in at age 20.
Now, here’s an interesting cultural twist: the legal drinking age for beer and wine in Austria is 16, and it’s 18 for spirits. So, by 17, young skiers are trusted with a glass of wine or a stein of beer, yet they still get to enjoy reduced ski pass prices until they turn 20. Meanwhile, in Des Moines, you’ll be paying your “child’s” health insurance until they are 26.
Kitzbühel's pricing structure is pretty representative of Austria’s overall approach to ski passes. A single-day pass during high season is the most expensive you’ll find, priced at €76 (around $84)—still a far cry from the $300+ you’d pay for a day pass in North America. And as with most European resorts, the more consecutive days you purchase, the cheaper the per-day rate becomes. At a certain point, grabbing a season pass (€845 / $943 for adults) might be the smarter move.
Colfosco
Italy's Dolomiti Superski pass system is starting to take cues from the North American model in some ways. For instance, you’ll get a 5% discount when booking lift passes online compared to buying in person. Of course, that’s a modest saving compared to the 10% to 60% discounts offered by Epic and Ikon resorts for booking full season or large block passes in advance. But then again, it’s easier to offer "deeper" discounts when the same-day window rate in the U.S. tops $300.
The highest single-day high-season ski pass rate in the Dolomites is €83 / $92 (€79 / $88 online). That’s for the Dolomiti Superski pass, which gives you access to 12 valleys and resorts, covering a jaw-dropping 1,200 km (745 miles) of daily-groomed terrain. If you stay within just one valley, which already offers more lifts and terrain than most U.S. resorts, the price drops significantly. But for comparison's sake, I’m going with the top-tier option here.
Like in Austria, the daily rate in the Dolomites gets cheaper the more consecutive days you buy. An adult Dolomiti Superski season pass is €945 / $1,055—if you snag it before December 24.
There are also some fantastic deals in the Dolomiti Superski region. First off, if you have an Ikon season pass, you get 7 free days across the entire Dolomiti Superski. I’ve even seen guests just swipe their Ikon pass at the lift without needing a local RFID card (though if it doesn’t work, just pop over to a gondola station to sort it out).
Second, skiing with kids comes with even more perks. Children 8 and under ski for free when their pass is purchased along with a parent’s. And the savings don’t stop there. During the low season (before Christmas and from March onwards), kids 8 and under ski for free even if they’re with family friends instead of their parents. Some hotels even waive lodging fees for children when parents book a stay, making the Dolomites an even sweeter deal for families.
Laax
Laax categorizes skiers and snowboarders into four groups: infants (5 and under), children (6-12), youths (13-17), and adults (18-63). Unfortunately, Switzerland has been drifting toward dynamic pricing—a trend imported from North America that no one asked for. Even so, families will still find day and week passes far more affordable than what you’d pay across the pond (at least for now). With thousands of resorts competing across the Alps, prices are likely to stay grounded—hopefully avoiding a stratospheric climb.
Laax is part of the larger Flims Laax Falera area, which together boasts over 214 km (132 miles) of daily groomed slopes, ensuring plenty of terrain to explore.
Méribel
Méribel is part of the awe-inspiring Trois Vallées (Three Valleys), a colossal ski area offering over 600 km (372 miles) of groomed terrain spanning the resort villages of Courchevel, La Tania, Brides-les-Bains, Les Menuires, Saint Martin de Belleville, Val Thorens, and Orelle. It’s a skier’s paradise—158 lifts, 300 slopes, 25 summits. While you could opt for a more budget-friendly local pass covering just Méribel (with its still impressive 150 km / 90 miles of slopes), for this analysis, we're focusing on the full Trois Vallées pass.
Méribel also has some enticing family packages. For example, parents can score an unlimited season pass covering both parents and one child for €1,271 / $1,415—a great deal considering the expansive terrain it unlocks.
Access to European resorts with Epic and IKON season passes
Ski Rental Equipment
The theme of lower costs continues when it comes to ski rentals. Both in Europe and North America, you can often score discounts on rental gear when you sign up for lessons. In Europe, your hotel might even help you out with a deal at a nearby shop—sometimes run by a family member, because, well, Europe.
Reserving in advance is always a smart move in either location. But in Austria and Italy, I’m consistently amazed by the incredible deals on high-end rentals, often featuring the latest model skis. European rental shops have fully embraced a "demo" mentality, allowing you to swap out your skis for other similar-level or less expensive models as often as you like during your rental period. Some packages even include daily tuning and storage at the base of the mountain.
And let’s not forget, most European hotels come equipped with elaborate ski rooms, complete with heated boot racks. Few things are better than slipping into warm ski boots in the morning. Cold boots? Those are for the birds.
Cost of ski equipment by age category for six days
The Up-Sell
Naturally, families will find plenty of ways to part with their money in North America, especially when it comes to premium services and—let’s be honest—data harvesting. Epic, for example, offers the My Epic Gear membership program for a $50 upfront fee. This program, accessible via a mobile app, promises access to better gear, advanced reservations, slopeside pick-up, and even in-resort delivery. Members also receive discounts on daily rental rates, with prices starting at $55 per day for skiers aged 13 and up, and $45 per day for younger skiers between 3 and 12. Want a helmet? That’ll be an extra $10 per day.
Private Ski Shops vs. Near-Monopolies
Skiers in Europe rent skis from private local shops or larger name brand sport shops. In North America, it’s still possible to rent from private ski shops, and as a fellow small business owner I would encourage you to support your small, family-run local business. But, the current trend is to rent through the large resort operators like Epic or Alterra/Ikon that can offer potentially greater selection, newer gear, and lower prices through volume.
In Europe, you will find local, family owned shops in every village. You will also encounter large corporate sport shops, which tend to be excellent. In Austria, I prefer Intersport shops if I can’t rent from a local shop. Sometimes the Intersport branch is a family owned franchise, like Sport Pepi in Kitzbühel.
Recommendations:
First, pack your ski boots but leave your skis and poles at home when heading to Europe. Boots are your most essential piece of gear—if your boots hurt, nothing else matters. Trust me, a bad boot fit can ruin an otherwise perfect day on the slopes.
Second, unless you’ve got special airline status or a mountain of loyalty points, airlines will happily charge you the equivalent of a week's ski rental just to manhandle your skis across 6,000 miles. Save yourself the hassle and keep your nice skis at home for your local mountain.
Third, European ski shops will kit you out with the right skis for the conditions you'll be skiing—usually the latest model piste skis, but if you’re determined to ride fat powder planks, you can get those too (though odds are, you won’t need them). Plus, with the “demo” mentality in Europe, you can swap out your skis as often as you like. If your edges feel dull or the wax wears off, just trade them in for a fresh set—no extra cost. And if a surprise 3-foot dump of snow hits, you can easily swap those piste skis for powder planks. No hassle, no price hike (unless you upgrade categories). I’ve done it many times.
The charts below break down an example of the rental equipment costs. To maximize the potential cost, I’ve selected rentals during peak season at the top quality level (“ski premium”, “ski exclusive”).This represents the newest, top of the line equipment on offer in the European resorts. But in some cases adults can select basic ski packages, which are almost half the cost.
When it comes to kids’ equipment, the costs in Europe are refreshingly low compared to North America. In fact, what you’d pay for a single day of rentals in the U.S. could easily cover an entire week in Europe. Take Colfosco, for example—renting gear for a child aged 11 to 14 will set you back just $56 for the whole week. Over in Kitzbühel, families can expect to pay less than $100 per week for similarly aged kids, and that includes poles, boots, and even a helmet.
Links to the rental shops follow:
Vail - My Epic Gear
Killington - Killington Equipment Rentals
Kitzbühel - Intersport (recommend Sport Pepi)
Colfosco - Sport Pescosta
Laax - Ski Rental LAAX
Méribel - Chaudanne Sport
[ski rental cost - six days]
2. Convenience
The second reason to consider a family ski vacation in Europe is convenience. Skiing is an ideal family activity—it gets everyone out into nature, breathing in fresh mountain air, while enjoying great exercise and the chance to learn and experience new things together. Three things come to mind immediately when considering Europe as a more convenient ski holiday destination: (1) transportation; (2) family-friendly hotels; and (3) an abundance of slopes and terrain for young people and families.
Transportation
Transportation in Europe is generally more convenient than in North America, which is a huge perk for families. Public transportation infrastructure in Alpine countries is far more robust - in short, you don't need to rent a car. Depending on where you land, it is possible to take trains, buses, or private car services to get from the airport to your ski destination.
Once you are in your ski village, a car is simply unnecessary. In Austria, Switzerland, and France, local village ski buses are generally free. Longer distance buses charge a small fare.
Trains
Europe offers some of the best public transport in the world. It’s affordable, modern, clean, and relaxing. To reiterate, it is far more convenient to rent your skis in the village rather than carry it with you, especially when traveling by train.
Private Transfers
Private transfer services are for everyone - there are affordable, basic options to luxury options. When booking your hotel, ask for a recommendation about a private transfer. Sometimes a family member runs a transfer service in town and you’ll get a discount. This has happened more than once.
Rental Cars
Sometimes it makes sense to rent a car, especially if you plan to visit multiple resort villages over a week or two and you want to experience the countryside along the way. I have found car rentals in Europe to be far more affordable than in the United States. But you should be aware of the following common extra costs:
Winter tire fee: Snow-rated tires are required from October to Easter and rental companies add this charge every time - can’t escape it.
Snow chains - Renting these might save you big money. If you get caught in a blizzard without chains, you may be forbidden from proceeding or you’ll pay a lot more money to buy chains on the spot (which you’ll abandon at the end of your trip).
Tolls: In Austria and Switzerland, you’ll pay for a sticker called a vignette. In Austria you can buy a 10-day vignette (€11.50 / $12.85 for cars). In Switzerland you must pay CHF 40 / $48 and it’s an annual pass. It is a personal gripe of mine that rental car agencies remove the sticker after every rental, forcing the new occupant to purchase another annual vignette. It’s a typical Swiss hustle. Regardless, don’t get caught without a vignette - it’s at least a $180 fine on the spot payable by credit card. Just buy the vignette.
Local Ski Buses
Local village ski buses in Austria, Switzerland, and France are free, frequent, and fantastic. Just hop on and go to the slopes.
In the Dolomites, there is a nominal weekly fee of €9 to use the ski bus, but often your lodging provider will give you a small medallion that covers your local bus fare. Again, if you take a longer distance bus (e.g., one hour from Colfosco to Bruneck/Brunico), it may cost you about €5.
In sum, deciding which form of transportation to take is a personal decision. Personally, I love the freedom of having my own car - the journey can be half the fun - unless you find yourself in weekend change day ski holiday traffic, which can be terrible. Nevertheless, if you live in Europe already (e.g., you’re a military family stationed in Germany or Italy), the train or car may be your preferred option. In many cases, I help groups coordinate private car transfers - these are affordable and truly take all the stress out of your transfer.
Hot tips
Skiing the Arlberg: consider the Arlberg Express. Several buses from Zurich to Lech and St. Anton daily (most affordable). They also offer private vans up to 8 guests, vintage coaches for hire, and VIP luxury cars. Otherwise, the Austrian rail service (ÖBB) is very good.
Switzerland: the Swiss federal rail service (SBB) is one of the best rail networks in the world. Use it. You can go anywhere in the country by train - certain your ski destination. Kids love it.
Italy and France: generally, my recommendation in Italy is to either hire a private transfer service or rent a car - you’ll have to compare costs based on how many people you’re moving. Most hotels and apartments will include a complimentary parking space. Sometimes this includes an immaculate carriage under the hotel - you’d be surprised. Some villages have secure garages, which is nice if you don’t want your car buried under a week’s worth of snow.
Brenner Pass: major construction on the Brenner Pass between Austria and Northern Italy is scheduled to start in January 2025. This will severely restrict the flow of highway traffic from Innsbruck airport to the Dolomites. As a result, please plan accordingly: e.g. fly to Venice or navigate a transfer that avoids the Brenner Pass (may cost more money).
Family Oriented Hotels
Family-oriented hotels exist in both Europe and North America - after all, the US is home to Disney and Great Wolf Lodge. But when it comes to suitable lodging for a family ski vacation in Europe, it is hard to beat the amenities and conveniences that are rare if not absent in North America.
Family-Ski Hotels
Many villages in Italy and Austria are particularly family-friendly, and I’ve personally chosen Kitzbühel and Colfosco based on my own family history and experiences. But they’re far from the only options. In fact, there’s even a term in German for such places: Kinderhotel (children’s hotel). These hotels are often located right next to beginner slopes and ski schools, with some offering ski-in/ski-out access. Here’s what you can typically expect from these family-oriented accommodations:
Kids' programs and après-ski activities
Family rooms with bunk beds and kitchenettes for added convenience
Spacious play areas and game rooms, some equipped with climbing walls and table tennis
Full-service childcare, including care for babies
Separate indoor pools and spa areas, with designated spaces for families and quieter, adults-only sections for those seeking a bit of relaxation
For hotels located away from the slopes, many offer complimentary shuttles to take children to and from ski school, ensuring a seamless experience for families. The shuttle at Hotel Austria in Lech is called the Teddy Express - it looks like a little tourist train.
Half Pension
Half pension (or half board) is both a cost-effective and convenient option that includes breakfast and dinner as part of your hotel stay—perfect for families, especially if you’d rather not cook. This was the go-to choice for my family when I learned to ski in Austria.
Breakfasts in Europe are a feast. Typically served buffet-style, you’ll find warm options like scrambled eggs, soft-boiled eggs, and bacon, alongside an impressive array of fresh breads, locally sourced cheeses, cured meats, cold cuts, yogurts, and more. Juices, teas, coffee, and hot chocolate are always on hand to round out the experience.
Dinners are equally generous, often featuring four to five courses: a soup, a salad, a choice of main course, and a dessert to finish. You can order wine or beer by the glass, but many opt for a bottle, which the staff will gladly save for you if you don’t finish it, ready and waiting for the next evening. Children are treated to their own special menu, which I’ll dive into more under the section on “culture.”
Fun Slopes for Kids and Families (and others, let’s face it)
Certain ski areas in Europe are thoughtfully designed with families and beginners in mind. Take the Kitzbühel ski region, for example, where several practice slopes across various valleys are completely free—no lift ticket required. Now, just imagine trying to write that kind of insurance policy in Vermont!
Fun Slopes
Fun slopes are exactly what they sound like—built purely for fun. Skiers zip up steep embankments, high-five foam hands, glide through tunnels carved into giant snow houses, and weave around playful obstacles. And let me tell you, even at almost 50, I can’t resist the temptation to dive right in!
Timed Race Slopes
In Europe, it’s common to stumble upon various race courses dotted around the mountain. Just scan your RFID ski pass to register and start earning rewards like beanies, neck gaiters, coffee mugs, and other prizes. Some courses are solo giant slalom runs, while others are side-by-side GS tracks perfect for a friendly duel. Then there are the speed runs—where the goal is simple: bomb down the hill and find out who’s the fastest (or the craziest) in your group.
Snow Parks
As kids grow older, their appetite for adventure naturally increases. That’s where snow parks come in—perfect for budding snowboarders and freestyle skiers. With features like table tops, half-pipes, and rails, snow parks offer plenty of thrills and are usually just a stone’s throw from the more family-friendly fun slopes.
Pro Tip:
When skiing in Europe, I recommend getting ski travel insurance that covers the whole family. My go-to ski and travel insurance for the past decade has been through the Deutscher Skiverband (DSV). They offer international plans that cover guests from North America when they ski anywhere in the EU. A family membership for one year is only €135 / $150. This covers emergencies like a helicopter ride from the slopes to a hospital, as well as a host of other benefits, like stolen or lost equipment.
3. Culture
The third and perhaps most compelling reason to plan a family ski vacation in Europe is culture. The world isn’t as vast as it once was, and winters certainly aren’t getting any cooler. If you’ve ever dreamed of skiing in Europe, the best time to go was last decade—but it’s not too late to experience the world’s greatest sport in the very place where it was born, refined, and perfected.
At the heart of this cultural appeal are the unique foods, beverages, and experiences that make skiing in Europe so special.
Eating and Drinking for Kids
Feeding children, especially while traveling, can be a challenge. Thankfully, European cuisine has a way of making just about everyone happy—kids included. Many dishes are practically custom-made for little ones, and chances are your children will fall in love with them and keep asking for them long after the trip is over. In fact, I still find myself ordering some of these as an adult!
Large skillet of Kaiserschmarrn (Emperor's Pancake) in a cozy Austrian hut
European Foods Kids Love
Käsespätzle (cheese noodles). Basically, it’s mac and cheese in German-speaking countries. These are wheat-flour noodles that are boiled, then dried and pan fried. You can have them plain (suitable for an unhappy tummy), with brown sauce, or integrated into molten local cheese. Top with crispy onions. It’s amazing, and every kid I’ve met loves it.
Weiner or Schweine Schnitzel (breaded and pan fried veal or pork cutlet). This is essentially a giant, delicious chicken nugget. Who doesn’t love that? Great with ketchup, curry sauce, or brown beer sauce (no alcohol, just delicious). Kids like the breaded cutlets, but you can also find unbreaded (nature) cutlets with gravy and mushrooms - it’s a Jägerschnitzel (hunter’s schnitzel).
Pasta. Any pasta you want - spaghetti, fettuccine, linguini, rigatoni, pene, etc. My personal favorite as a child was spaghetti bolognese, and it still is. I order this or we make it ourselves on every ski trip.
Frankfurter mit Pommes Frites (pork hot dog with french fries). So simple, yet so good. The frankfurters in the Alps are snappy and uniquely seasoned. You can’t seem to find these in the US. Just two franks on a bed of fries with some ketchup and mayo - so happy. It’s a traditional kids menu that I always order for myself.
Kaiserschmarrn (the emperor’s pancake). This is technically a dessert that can be ordered as a main course for lunch. It’s a big, fluffy, pan-fried pancake, often with some raisins in it. It gets sliced up into large chunks, topped with powdered sugar, and accompanied by warm apple sauce or plum compote.
Pork schnitzel with french fries (Schweineschnitzel mit Pommes)
Penne pasta with tomato sauce and melted cheese with basil drizzle
European Drinks Kids Love
Almdudler (carbonated apple juice). This is probably the best apple juice you’ll ever taste—an iconic Austrian brand. With a splash of sparkling water, it’s refreshing on its own and doubles as a delightful mixer for mom and dad. If branded Almdudler isn’t available, just ask for an Apfelschorle (“apfell-shore-le”)—a simple yet delicious blend of apple juice and carbonated water.
Heisse Schokolade (“high-seh shoko-la-de”, hot chocolate). I have to single out hot chocolate in Italy. My wife can’t drink it, but personally, I’d take it intravenously if I could. What sets Italian hot chocolate apart is the consistency—it’s like sipping a melted chocolate bar, with just enough milk to make it technically drinkable. One cup, and you’ll feel the sugar coursing through your veins, but if you’re a chocolate lover, welcome to heaven. Maybe a little sooner than planned, but at least the journey will be delicious.
Ultra decadent Italian hot chocolate (cioccolato caldo)
Also, a crucial note: in Europe, hot chocolate is made with milk, not water. Some kids might not be fans of the milk skin that forms if you don’t drink it quickly enough. I still can’t stand it. Fun fact: Austrian royalty had servants specifically tasked with managing cocoa scum. Consider yourself warned.
Skiwasser (fruit flavored water). Pronounced “she-vasser”, this is a refreshing, non-alcoholic beverage typically made from a mixture of water, raspberry or red currant syrup, and lemon juice. Sometimes it includes sparkling water, making it a fizzy, hydrating option for skiers or hikers taking a break on the mountain.
Kinderpunsch (children’s punch). This is the child-friendly, non-alcoholic version of the traditional winter punch or mulled wine (Glühwein). It is made with fruit juices, spices like cinnamon and cloves, and sometimes a hint of citrus. It's a cozy, warming drink for kids on cold days while mom and dad giggle over Glühwein and Jägertee.
Latte Macchiato (Milk with a Dash of Coffee or Chocolate). In Italy, there is a kid-friendly version of the macchiato, often made with more milk than coffee or none at all, and sometimes flavored with chocolate syrup for added sweetness.
Unique Family-Oriented Cultural Experiences
Every alpine country hosts unique cultural events throughout winter, many of which are family-friendly. Here are a few of the most memorable:
Advent Christmas market in Kitzbühel
Christmas Advent Markets
Spending Christmas and New Year’s in the Alps is pure magic. I’ve done it several times, and they rank among my most cherished family memories. The highlights? Definitely the Christmas markets, which are often nestled in the heart of the village's old town (like Kitzbüheler Advent) or tucked away in a quiet forest clearing (Mayrhofner Advent). While the kids sip on kinderpunsch, parents can fully embrace the Glühwein.
Then, just a few days later, brace yourself for one of the wildest New Year’s celebrations you’ll ever witness. In Europe, New Year’s Eve feels more like the 4th of July—but with one major difference: most of the fireworks come from the public. I remember being a teenager in Kitzbühel’s old town square at the stroke of midnight, surrounded by a packed crowd. Suddenly, everyone started lighting their own fireworks. It was total chaos, and in hindsight, probably not the safest event I’ve attended—but miraculously, no one seemed to get hurt. By the end of the night, the square was carpeted in broken beer bottles and spent firecracker shells.
In short, bringing your own fireworks for New Year’s is a beloved tradition, and it’s one of the few times each year when they’re legally sold and used. So, if you're up for it, join in—but definitely save this one for the older kids.
Carnival/Fasching
Carnival (or Fasching in German-speaking regions) traces its roots back to ancient Roman and pagan festivals, originally celebrated to honor the gods and ensure fertility and prosperous harvests. As Christianity spread, these traditions blended with religious observances, eventually evolving into the Carnival season many Catholics observe today. The term “Carnival” likely comes from the Latin carne vale, meaning "farewell to meat," marking the beginning of Lent and its period of fasting.
In the Alps, Carnival/Fasching is very much a family-oriented celebration. While grand balls and elegant period costumes may belong to the Venetians and Viennese, costumes are still a big deal in the Alps—though admittedly, there might be one too many clowns for my liking! But kids absolutely love dressing up and taking part in the children’s parades. If you’re American, think of it as a family-friendly version of Mardi Gras—without the beads, but plenty of fun.
Family Fun Weeks
Every year in February and March, the Austrian ski region of Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis hosts Family Fun Weeks, packed with exciting activities for the whole family. These events include children’s ski races, snow treasure hunts, family snowshoeing adventures, and themed fun parks where kids can meet snow mascots. The region also offers special entertainment shows and fireworks displays designed specifically for families with young children.
Non-Skiing Activities for Families
Europe also offers a wide variety of fantastic non-skiing activities for families to enjoy. Americans might be surprised by how seemingly unregulated some of these activities are, given Europe’s generally less litigious culture.
Sledding / Toboggan Runs
The toboggan runs in the European Alps are nothing short of spectacular. Stretching for miles, many are even open in the evening, often with a bar conveniently located at the top or bottom. While families are the main crowd, these runs offer fun for everyone.
That said, not all toboggan runs are the same. Some are narrow, steep, and better suited for the agility (and light weight) of children, especially when only small plastic sleds are allowed. Others, however, are long and gentle, designed specifically for traditional wooden sleds with metal runners.
Pro tip: Look for a bar at the top and/or the bottom
Sled runs in Austria are often long (1-2 miles) and operate in the evenings. Don't forget the glühwein and kinderpunsch!
Ski School and Snow Cat Demonstrations
At some point during your ski week in Europe, the local ski school and snow prep crew will likely put on an evening show that’s not to be missed. These performances often kick off with ski instructors descending the mountain in the dark, carrying flaming torches as they wind their way down to the base. Once there, they’ll put on an impressive skills demonstration. You might also be treated to a light show or a video projected onto the slopes, showcasing the village’s history and its rich skiing heritage.
And if you’re really in luck, the snowcat drivers will make an appearance, showing off the power and precision of these absurdly cool grooming machines. It’s like a mix between Disney on ice and a monster truck rally—your kids will absolutely love it.
Typical evening torch procession.
Sleigh Rides
Sleigh rides are the perfect mix of romance and fun. Everyone snuggles in under a cozy, heavy blanket, while someone passes around dried sausages and a thermos of mulled wine—or maybe a beer. There are few more magical ways to take in the jagged peaks, icy streams, and shadowy forests of the Alps than from the comfort of a sleigh. And the little ones? They absolutely love it—yes, even the smell of the horses.
Family sleigh ride in Südtirol / Alto-Adige, Dolomites, Italy
Hiking Trails
Need a day without ski boots? Many villages in Europe offer groomed hiking trails for walkers. It is common to see people pushing winterized strollers and prams on these trails. It can be a very pleasant activity to hike up to one of the beautiful mountain chalets for lunch. It’s also great for grandma and grandpa who may be on babysitting duty while mom and dad ski - in Europe it is quite easy for them to meet you for lunch where the hiking trail and ski piste meet.
Family hiking in Austria (and coming home with a Christmas tree)
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, cost, convenience, and culture are three compelling reasons to consider a family ski vacation in Europe. When building your budget, you might find—just as my family has—that a week in the Dolomites for a family of four can cost a third of what you’d spend for a week in Colorado, including flights from the U.S. East Coast. We’ve done it for several years now, and we keep coming back for the unbeatable combination of affordability, ease, and culture.
Once again, we’ll be staying slopeside in a ski-in/ski-out hotel, complete with a family-friendly pool area and a separate adults-only spa and pool for a little quiet time. We’ve opted for half board, so no one has to worry about shopping or cooking—although we’ve also enjoyed renting apartments and preparing our own meals in the past. Ski school and ski kindergarten, including equipment and lift passes, will cost less than $450 per child for the entire week.
Our non-skiing family members will spend their days hiking through breathtaking scenery, meeting up with us for lunch at impossibly charming mountain chalets. We’ll hit the family fun parks, race down the speed runs, and unwind with a round of ping pong in the kids’ playroom. There will be outrageously decadent hot chocolate, and we’ll most certainly earn our afternoon naps after indulging in a bit too much käsespätzle.
After a multi-course dinner paired with regional wines and schnapps, the kids will head to bed while the adults relax in the lobby, sipping drinks and gazing out at some of the most stunning mountains in the world, according to UNESCO. It’s a family tradition I’m thrilled to repeat every year.
Offer
If you’re looking to plan the ultimate ski trip to the Alps, Eat Drink Fun is here to help. With Custom Adventures, we’ll work with you to optimize your group trip or corporate event, ensuring every detail is tailored to perfection. During EDF’s Ski Residencies, we’ll personally guide you to the best spots and experiences on the mountain.
EDF isn’t a travel agent—we offer consultation and educational services curated by a ski sommelier with extensive personal experience in the region. You manage your own transportation and reservations, while EDF provides invaluable insights, expert guidance, and translation services for English-speaking guests.
Dine at the finest local restaurants, choose the perfect local wines and unique beverages, party at the best après ski spots, and, of course, ski the top slopes with the most breathtaking views. In short, we’ll help you make the most of your precious time in the Alps.
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