Zurich is known for its vibrant city life. It offers picturesque lake views. It is also a gateway to some of the world’s most breathtaking ski resorts.
Just a short drive or train ride away, Zurich residents and visitors alike can experience the thrill of the Alps. Whether you’re an advanced skier or just looking for a family-friendly winter getaway, consider these ski resorts. They are among the best near Zurich to add to your travel list this season.
- Flumserberg – Best for Families and Beginners
- Engelberg-Titlis – Best for Advanced Skiers and Snowboarders
- Laax – Best for Freestyle Skiers and Snowboarders
- Andermatt-Sedrun – Best for Scenic and Off-Piste Adventures
- Arosa Lenzerheide – Best for a Complete Ski Resort Experience
- Davos-Klosters – Best for Après-Ski and Winter Sports Variety
- St. Moritz – Best for Luxury Skiing Experience
Flumserberg – Best for Families and Beginners
Distance from Zurich: 1 hour by car or train
Highlights: Flumserberg is among the closest ski resorts from Zurich. It is one of the most accessible, perfect for a day trip. The resort offers a variety of slopes for all skill levels, including beginner-friendly areas. With ski schools, fun parks, and tubing options, Flumserberg is ideal for families. Don’t miss the panoramic views of Lake Walen as you ski down the slopes.
Must-Do: Try night skiing at Flumserberg for a unique experience under the stars.
Engelberg-Titlis – Best for Advanced Skiers and Snowboarders
Distance from Zurich: 1.5 hours by car or train
Highlights: Engelberg-Titlis is known for its challenging terrain, including glacier skiing at over 3,000 meters. Advanced skiers and snowboarders will appreciate the variety of off-piste routes and steep descents. The resort also boasts the world’s first rotating cable car, offering a 360-degree view of the stunning Swiss Alps.
Must-Do: Visit the Glacier Cave on Mount Titlis, a surreal experience in a world of eternal ice.
Read the full guide to Engelberg here
Laax – Best for Freestyle Skiers and Snowboarders
Distance from Zurich: 1.5 to 2 hours by car
Highlights: Laax is famous for its impressive freestyle facilities, including the world’s largest half-pipe. It’s a paradise for snowboarders and freestyle skiers, with four snow parks designed to challenge and inspire. The resort offers a wide range of accommodations. It also has a lively après-ski scene. This makes it perfect for young travelers and groups of friends.
Must-Do: Take a lesson at the Laax Freestyle Academy, a high-tech indoor training center for freestyle skills.
Read the full guide to Laax here
Andermatt-Sedrun – Best for Scenic and Off-Piste Adventures
Distance from Zurich: 1.5 to 2 hours by car or train
Highlights: Andermatt-Sedrun offers an unforgettable alpine experience, with plenty of untouched terrain for off-piste skiing and beautiful panoramic views. The resort’s Gemsstock mountain has become a hotspot for freeriders, while Sedrun offers gentler slopes perfect for beginners. Andermatt also has a historic village charm, ideal for a relaxed alpine escape.
Must-Do: For a unique experience, take the Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn scenic train from Andermatt to Disentis.
Read the full guide to Andermatt here
Arosa Lenzerheide – Best for a Complete Ski Resort Experience
Distance from Zurich: 2 hours by car
Highlights: Arosa Lenzerheide offers over 225 kilometers of ski slopes. There are a wide variety of trails suited for all skill levels. Known for its sunshine and reliable snowfall, the resort has a cozy village vibe and excellent amenities. The region is also popular for cross-country skiing and winter hiking, giving non-skiers plenty to explore.
Must-Do: Try the famous ‘Hornli-Express’ chairlift and ski through one of Switzerland’s sunniest valleys.
Davos-Klosters – Best for Après-Ski and Winter Sports Variety
Distance from Zurich: 2 hours by car or train
Highlights: Davos-Klosters combines the charm of traditional Swiss villages with a high-energy atmosphere, perfect for skiers and snowboarders. Davos is also a hotspot for après-ski, with a lively nightlife and fine dining options. Klosters, on the other hand, offers a more relaxed, family-friendly vibe. With over 300 km of ski slopes, there’s something for everyone.
Must-Do: Test your skills on the Parsenn descent, one of the longest downhill runs in the region.
Read the full guide to Davos here
St. Moritz – Best for Luxury Skiing Experience
Distance from Zurich: 3 hours by car or train
Highlights: For those looking to splurge, St. Moritz is synonymous with luxury. This glamorous ski resort, nestled in the Engadin Valley, is world-famous for its chic atmosphere, five-star hotels, and gourmet dining. St. Moritz also hosts world-class events, including polo on ice and international ski championships. It’s ideal for seasoned skiers who want an upscale experience.
Must-Do: Attend the White Turf horse racing on a frozen lake for a true St. Moritz experience.
Read the full guide to St Moritz here
Final Thoughts:
Zurich’s prime location makes it easy to visit fantastic ski resorts in Switzerland. Each resort offers unique experiences for skiers and snowboarders.
You might be seeking family-friendly slopes. Perhaps you are looking for off-piste adventure. Or maybe you want luxury in the Alps. In any case, there’s a perfect ski destination nearby. So grab your gear, hit the slopes, and enjoy winter at its finest!
Bonjour Alps 