Sölden's Reign
The Austrian gem of Sölden has been declared Europe's premier destination for après-ski by Omio, a leading travel booking platform. This recognition stems
from its impressive offering of 320 bars, catering to every taste from relaxed pubs to energetic nightclubs. Beyond its legendary nightlife, Sölden boasts nearly 100 miles of skiable terrain, serviced by 31 lifts, and guarantees snow coverage thanks to its high elevation. The town provides a complete après-ski experience, welcoming skiers in all their gear to enjoy drinks and food, ensuring a memorable end to a day on the slopes.
Top Contenders Emerge
Following closely behind Sölden in Omio's rankings are other European ski hotspots renowned for their vibrant après-ski culture. Saalbach-Hinterglemm, also in Austria, secures the second position with an impressive 288 bars. Italy's Val Gardena earns a special mention for its exceptional scene, ranking third with 264 bars, offering a delightful mix of local cuisine and renowned DJs. These destinations highlight that fantastic post-ski experiences are not limited to one country, with Austria and Italy proving to be major players in Europe's après-ski landscape.
Global Interest Surges
The demand for memorable après-ski experiences is skyrocketing, with Google searches for 'best places for après-ski' seeing a substantial increase of 186 percent over the last quarter, according to Omio's report. This surge in interest prompted Omio to compile its list by analyzing data on ski destinations and the density of bars and pubs within them. The methodology focused on popular European ski locations, ensuring that the top rankings reflect genuine consumer interest and a rich offering of venues for post-ski enjoyment.
Rounding Out the Top
The top five European après-ski destinations are further solidified by the inclusion of Zermatt in Switzerland and Lech & Zurs in Austria, underscoring the dominance of these alpine nations. The top ten list also features Chamonix, France; Livigno, Italy; Kitzbühel, Austria; Davos, Switzerland; and Val Thorens, France. This diverse group showcases the breadth of excellent après-ski options available across the continent, ensuring that every skier and snowboarder can find their ideal post-slope celebration venue.
Affordable Revelry
A significant perk of enjoying the après-ski scene in Austria and Italy, as highlighted by Omio's findings, is the affordability of a pint of beer, averaging around $5. This makes indulging in post-ski celebrations with friends even more accessible and enjoyable. Such reasonable pricing allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the lively atmosphere without significant financial strain, making these destinations even more attractive for a winter getaway filled with both thrilling slopes and great company.
