Ski on. Dream on.

Discover more ski destinations from London Stansted

Planning a ski trip this winter season? Your dream ski destination is closer than you think.

Whether you're looking for beginner-friendly resorts, intermediate cruising terrain, or full-on expert steeps, we offer access to some of Europe's top winter destinations.

A ski trip isn’t just a holiday – it’s an escape from the everyday, where breathtaking mountain views, fresh alpine air and unforgettable moments come to life. For those craving adventure or simply wanting a change of pace, experience a truly unique getaway this winter season. And with more routes than ever from London Stansted, discovering your perfect ski destination has never been easier – all you have to do is decide where the journey begins.

Why fly from London Stansted?

Excellent access to Alpine airports: Quick transfers to some of France and Switzerland’s biggest resorts - perfect for weekend or short ski breaks.
Convenient flight times for short trips: Early morning and late-night flights help maximise slope time, even on 2–3-day getaways.

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First time skiing?

If it’s your first time on the slopes, don’t worry – with the right resort, good instructors and a few simple tips, most beginners are confidently skiing in no time. Choosing a destination with gentle slopes, reliable snow and well-organised ski schools makes all the difference, which is why airports like Chambery and Sofia are perfect starting points for your first ski adventure.

Chambery, France

Chambery is one of the best gateways for beginners heading to the French Alps with beginner-friendly ski resorts, including Les Arcs, La Plagne, and Valmorel. These resorts are known for their gentle slopes, excellent English-speaking ski schools, and well-designed learning areas.

Best time to visit: December - April

Flight time: 1 hour 55 minutes

Airlines: British Airways, Jet2

Sofia, Bulgaria

Sofia is the ideal budget-friendly gateway for beginners heading to the mountains of Bulgaria. Its main ski resort, Bansko, is perfect for first-time skiers thanks to its long, gentle pistes, excellent English speaking instructors, and great value for lessons, lift passes, and equipment hire.

Best time to visit: December - March

Flight time: 3 hours 25 minutes

Airline: Ryanair

Rovaniemi, Finland

Rovaniemi known as the heart of Lapland and the official Christmas capital, also offers excellent terrain for skiers seeking easier slopes. Resorts such as Ounasvaara, Levi, and Ruka provide unique experiences and make for unforgettable ski adventures.

Best time to visit: December - March

Flight time: 2 hours 50 minutes

Airline: Ryanair

Ready for intermediate terrain?

If you’re confident on blue runs and ready to progress, intermediate-friendly destinations offer the perfect mix of challenge and enjoyment. Think long cruising pistes, scenic red runs, and plenty of terrain to build your skills. Airports like Salzburg and Grenoble give access to large, well-connected resorts that are perfect for developing technique while still enjoying relaxed, enjoyable days on the mountain.

Salzburg, Austria

Salzburg is a great gateway for intermediate skiers. You can easily reach resorts like Zell am See, Saalbach-Hinterglemm, and the vast Ski Amadé region. With long blue and red runs, efficient lift systems, and plenty of mountain restaurants, Salzburg is ideal for skiers who want smooth cruising terrain with spectacular Alpine views.

Best time to visit: December - April

Flight time: 2 hours

Airline: Ryanair

Grenoble, France

Grenoble provides access to some of France’s biggest and most varied ski areas, including Alpe d’Huez and Les Deux Alpes. These resorts are perfect for intermediate skiers looking to progress, with long cruising pistes, high-altitude snow, and lively villages.

Best time to visit: December - April

Flight time: 1 hour 50 minutes

Airlines: Jet2, Ryanair

Looking for more of a challenge?

For seasoned skiers who crave steep lines, deep snow and challenging terrain, choosing the right destination is key. Advanced-focused resorts deliver high-altitude slopes, big-mountain descents and world-class opportunities. Airports such as Geneva and Istanbul connect you to some of the most exciting expert terrain in Europe and ideal for those who want to push their limits and experience something unforgettable on the slopes.

Geneva, Switzerland

Geneva is the ultimate entry point for advanced and expert skiers looking for world-class terrain. It offers fast access to resorts such as Chamonix, Verbier, and Avoriaz, known for their high altitudes, long vertical drops, and challenging terrain - one of Europe’s premier locations for experienced skiers.

Best time to visit: December - May

Flight time: 1 hour 50 minutes

Airlines: British Airways, EasyJet, Jet2

Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul may not be an obvious ski hub, but it provides good access to some of Turkey’s top high-altitude and excellent snow reliability ski areas, with balanced terrain for all levels of experience. Visit Uludağ and Palandöken, for the perfect destination to combine a cultural city break with a unique ski adventure.

Best time to visit: December - March

Flight time: 3 hours 45 minutes

Airline: Turkish Airlines (Flights from March 2026)

Zürich, Switzerland

Zürich has quick access to world-class ski resorts such as Zermatt, St. Moritz and Davos. Zürich International Airport is Switzerland’s largest, making it easy for you to fly in and head straight to the slopes for your ski fix.

Best time to visit: December - March

Flight time: 1 hour 40 minutes

Airline: EasyJet

Visit Lapland - Rovaniemi, Finland

Lapland is the ultimate winter escape and a place where snowy forests, frozen landscapes and fairytale experiences come together. Flying from London Stansted to Rovaniemi transports you straight into the heart of Finnish Lapland, the official home of Santa Claus and one of the best places on Earth to witness the magical Northern Lights.

The Aurora Borealis

Lapland is one of the world’s best destinations for seeing the Northern Lights. With long, clear winter nights and minimal light pollution, you have an excellent chance of witnessing shimmering colourful lights illuminating the Arctic sky.

Best time to see them: September - March

Top experiences: Guided aurora hunts, glass-igloo stays, wilderness cabins

Santa Claus Village

Located just outside Rovaniemi, Santa Claus Village is where festive magic comes to life all year round. Meet Santa, visit the official Santa Claus Post Office, and enjoy a variety of festive activities surrounded by snowy landscapes.

Perfect for: Families, magical breaks, and bucket-list moments

Highlights: Elf workshops, reindeer rides, snow playgrounds, and Christmas all year round

Discover more winter getaways

Winter is the perfect time to explore snowy mountains, festive markets, or cozy city breaks. From Alpine villages and Nordic landscapes to cultural hotspots, there are memorable experiences for everyone from London Stansted.

More choice. More value. More destinations. More possibilities at London Stansted.