Introduction
Val d'Isère has built its reputation on exceptional skiing conditions and international prestige. However, beyond snowy slopes, it's after sunset that the resort truly reveals its festive charm. Nightlife in Val d'Isère is legendary among ski resorts worldwide, attracting visitors annually seeking unforgettable evenings combining refined gastronomy, exceptional cocktails, and festive atmosphere at altitude.
Whether you seek an intimate gastronomic evening, a restaurant-transformed-into-club experience, or an energetic night of dancing, Val d'Isère offers a complete panorama of nighttime entertainment. From relaxed apres-ski in small mountain bars to Michelin-starred restaurants, through dynamic clubs and international DJ sets, the resort offers diverse entertainment for all tastes and every moment of the evening.
This guide presents the best places to go out at night in Val d'Isère, allowing you to plan your mountain evenings with confidence and style. Discover how to maximize these magical moments when the mountain lights up and the party begins.
Apres-Ski: When the Party Begins
Apres-ski in Val d'Isère is far more than a simple break between skiing and dinner. It's a true institution, a transition moment when skiers descend the slopes to warm up, relax, and already savor the first festive moments of the day. Generally, apres-ski begins around 4-5pm when ski lifts start closing.
This mountain tradition combines the energy of athletes finishing their activity with well-deserved relaxation after intense descents. Mountain bars fill with a convivial atmosphere, glasses of white wine or hot rum in hand, while DJs play upbeat music. It's the perfect opportunity to meet other skiers, share your day's accomplishments, and gradually shift into evening mode.
Apres-ski sets the stage for the hours to follow. Once refreshed and warmed, you head back to the village to change, prepare, and begin your gastronomic or festive evening in one of the many establishments Val d'Isère offers. It's during apres-ski that you can also arrange with friends where to meet for dinner or clubbing.
The Best Places to Go Out at Night
IMA – Restaurant & Club, The Complete Experience
IMA is the unmissable establishment in Val d'Isère for those seeking a complete and memorable evening. Unique in its kind, IMA combines a high-level gastronomic restaurant and festive club, offering a natural and elegant transition from dinner to dancing, throughout one unforgettable evening. IMA occupies the legendary former Dick's Tea Bar space, a historic location that has long been at the heart of Val d'Isère's nightlife, preserving the iconic spirit of the mountain while offering a fresh, refined experience.
Your evening begins at 7pm at the restaurant, where you're welcomed in a warm and refined atmosphere. Under the direction of chef Elie Fishmann, you discover Levantine, Mediterranean, and Middle Eastern cuisine revisited with creativity and excellence. Mezze to share (falafels, fatteh, moutabal, muhammara, feta & dukkah) create a convivial and authentic atmosphere, ideal for beginning your evening with company. Signature dishes, such as IMA's Cauliflower or Wagyu Hummus & Zaatar Labneh, delight even the most demanding palates.
From 8-9pm, the restaurant's atmosphere progressively intensifies. IMA's signature cocktails deserve special attention: IMA's Tea Time (vodka, green tea, jasmine, elderflower syrup, lemon), Eastern Sour (whisky, pomegranate, lemon, egg white, cardamom), and Smoky Mountain (mezcal, chartreuse, mountain honey, smoked lemon) are masterful creations that enhance your meal. Each cocktail is prepared with precision by our expert mixologists.
From 11pm, the restaurant gradually transforms into a club. Tables are rearranged to create a dance space, the DJ takes position behind the decks, and music intensifies. If you dined at IMA, you naturally remain, but new clients can now access the club. The establishment operates in club mode until 4am, offering dynamic DJ sets, electrifying festive atmosphere, and private VIP spaces for groups or special events.
IMA is open every evening from 7pm to 4am. The address is at the heart of the resort: 120 Rue du Parc des Sports, Val d'Isère 73150. IMA privatization for private events, seminars, or weddings is also possible upon request. To reserve your restaurant table or club access, contact us via SevenRooms or call +33 7 66 94 08 26.
IMA – Restaurant & Club, The Complete Experience
Levantine, Mediterranean, and Middle Eastern cuisine. High-end restaurant transformed into festive club. Exceptional signature cocktails. DJ sets. Privatization available.
Dick's Tea Bar – The Legendary Location Now Home to IMA
Dick's Tea Bar was the iconic gathering place at the heart of Val d'Isère's legendary nightlife, representing decades of mountain tradition and unforgettable evenings. This historic location, where countless memories were made, has been transformed into IMA—continuing the tradition of exceptional hospitality and festive spirit. IMA honors the legacy of Dick's Tea Bar by preserving the venue's role as the epicenter of Val d'Isère's nightlife, while elevating the experience with refined Levantine cuisine, signature cocktails, and world-class entertainment. The spirit of Dick's Tea Bar lives on in IMA's commitment to creating magical mountain moments.
Cocorico – The Festive Après-Ski
Cocorico is a beloved après-ski destination in Val d'Isère, known for its warm and festive atmosphere. This establishment provides the perfect transition from slopes to evening, with energetic music and a convivial environment ideal for relaxing after an active day. Cocorico captures the true spirit of alpine apres-ski, where skiers and visitors gather in comfortable attire to warm up, socialize, and set the stage for the evening ahead. With its relaxed vibe and mountain hospitality, Cocorico is an essential stop for any Val d'Isère visitor.
La Folie Douce – Exclusive Club Experience
La Folie Douce is a premier nightlife destination for those seeking a sophisticated club experience. This establishment is renowned for its refined atmosphere, quality DJ sets, and exclusive ambiance perfect for an upscale evening in Val d'Isère. With attention to detail and a focus on providing an elevated experience, La Folie Douce attracts those who appreciate refined entertainment and an intimate yet vibrant setting for memorable mountain nights.
Microbar – Intimate Cocktail Experience
Microbar offers a cozy and intimate setting for cocktail enthusiasts. This refined bar specializes in expertly crafted cocktails in a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere. Perfect for quiet conversations or small group gatherings, Microbar provides a more intimate alternative to larger clubs, ideal for those seeking refined beverages and pleasant company.
How to Make the Most of Your Evenings in Val d'Isère
To experience the best evenings in Val d'Isère, some practical tips will help optimize your experience. Here are our recommendations for a successful mountain evening.
Plan your reservations in advance. Especially during peak season (December to April), quality restaurants and clubs fill up quickly. Booking your dinner table guarantees you a place during the best hours and allows you to plan your evening calmly. IMA accepts reservations via SevenRooms or by phone.
Respect the dress code. Most Val d'Isère restaurants and clubs maintain a smart casual dress code. Avoid sportswear, mountain boots, or ski outfits at restaurants and clubs. A nice pair of jeans with a nice shirt, elegant sweater, or dress pants fits perfectly. At the restaurant, thinking of a slightly more formal look creates a more pleasant experience for everyone.
Manage your time intelligently. Apres-ski begins around 4-5pm if you're interested. Restaurant dinner generally starts around 7pm and lasts 1.5 to 2.5 hours. If you plan to dance until 4am, plan your energy accordingly. Some prefer early dinner (7-8pm) to stay longer at the club.
Organize your transportation. Val d'Isère has several taxis and transportation services. Never drive after consuming alcohol. Transportation services and taxis are easily accessible from establishments. Plan your return route before starting your evening to fully relax.
Discover signature cocktails. If you dine at IMA, don't miss the signature cocktails prepared by our mixologists. These masterful creations add a special dimension to your evening and reflect the establishment's culinary creativity. Each cocktail tells a story and creates a unique sensory experience.
Enjoy mountain conviviality. The mountain creates a unique atmosphere where people are more open, relaxed, and social. It's an opportunity to meet new people, create unforgettable memories, and live authentic moments. Don't be a stranger to this alpine conviviality.