If you’re looking for the most exclusive and breathtaking car event in the world, The ICE St. Moritz (International Concours of Elegance) should be at the top of your bucket list. Held once a year on the frozen lake of St. Moritz, this extraordinary event combines classic and supercars, high fashion, and a one-of-a-kind winter wonderland atmosphere. Picture this: vintage Ferraris and Lamborghinis gliding gracefully over the ice, champagne flowing, and elegantly dressed guests soaking in the sun against the backdrop of the Swiss Alps. Whether you’re a die-hard car enthusiast or simply craving an elite winter escape, this event is the definition of luxury, thrill, and exclusivity. I am so happy that I got to experience it and have the opportunity to share it with you all.
When & Where: A Winter Wonderland of Automotive Excellence
The ICE St. Moritz is an annual event that typically takes place in late February for two days only. It is attended by people across the globe so it is quite international. The setting? The frozen Lake St. Moritz, which transforms into an open-air automotive museum, featuring some of the world’s most coveted cars. This unique venue adds an element of drama, as these stunning vehicles are driven across the ice, kicking up fine snow as they move.
But don’t let the picturesque setting fool you—this isn’t just a display event. You’ll witness iconic race cars in motion, competing in different categories, from pre-war classics to modern hypercars.
How to Get to St. Moritz: Choose Your Luxury
St. Moritz is a world-class destination, and getting there can be as glamorous as the event itself.
Here’s how you can arrive in style:
• By Private Jet: The closest airport is Samedan Airport (SMV), just 10 minutes from St. Moritz. This is the go-to choice for high-flyers who want a seamless, VIP experience.
• By Commercial Flight: Fly into Zurich International Airport (ZRH) and take a scenic 3.5-hour journey by train or car.
• By Train: The Glacier Express offers a breathtaking ride through the Swiss Alps, making for an unforgettable journey. I want to experience next year traveling with it as we arrived by car.
• By Car: A luxury road trip through the Swiss Alps is another fantastic option. Whether you’re driving a Bentley, a G-Wagon, or any car, the winding roads to St. Moritz add to the adventure.
Event Schedule: When Does It Start and End?
To help you plan your experience, here’s a breakdown of the official event schedule:
Friday, February 21st, 2025
• 9:00 AM: The I.C.E. Village and Drivers’ Lounge open to the public.
• 9:30 AM: International Concours of Elegance begins; jury car inspections.
• 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Contemporary cars showcase on the frozen lake.
• 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM: Buffet Lunch at the Drivers’ Lounge (Dress code: Alpine comfy warm).
• 3:30 PM: Award Ceremony for Class Winners.
• 4:30 PM: End of activities for the day.
Saturday, February 22nd, 2025
• 9:00 AM: The I.C.E. Village and Drivers’ Lounge open.
• 9:15 AM: International Concours of Elegance; free laps on the frozen lake.
• 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM: Buffet Lunch at the Drivers’ Lounge.
• 2:15 PM: More free laps on the frozen lake.
• 4:00 PM: Award Ceremony for Best in Show.
• 5:00 PM: Event concludes.
Be sure to arrive early to make the most of the event, as the most exciting activities happen throughout the day!
NB: we were stuck in traffic for more than 2 hours, so make sure you leave your destination early. Also we lost more time trying to find parking, so the earlier you arrive the better.
Tickets: How Much Does It Cost to Attend?
The ICE St. Moritz offers different types of tickets, catering to both general attendees and VIP guests.
• General Admission: Prices start at around CHF 80 per person.
• VIP Access: Expect to pay upwards of CHF 400, which includes access to exclusive areas, premium hospitality, and the best viewing spots.
NB: We decided to go to the event in December and wanted to get VIP tickets then however, they were already sold out, so try and purchase them way in advance.
• Children: Kids under 12 years old enter for free, making it a family-friendly event!
If you’re planning to attend in 2026, be sure to book early—tickets sell out fast, and hotels get fully booked months in advance.
Where to Stay: Luxury at Every Level
St. Moritz is synonymous with opulence, and the accommodations reflect that. Whether you’re looking for budget-friendly comfort or five-star indulgence, here’s a breakdown:
Luxury Hotels (CHF 1,500+ per night)
• Badrutt’s Palace – The most iconic hotel in St. Moritz, dripping in old-world glamour.
• Kulm Hotel – A five-star retreat with top-tier service and spa facilities.
• Carlton Hotel – If you’re looking for ultimate exclusivity and a private butler service.
Mid-Range Hotels (CHF 500 – 1,500 per night)
• Hotel Monopol – Stylish and centrally located.
• Grand Hotel des Bains Kempinski – A more modern take on luxury with excellent wellness facilities.
Budget-Friendly Options (CHF 200 – 500 per night)
• Hotel Steffani – Affordable yet charming, located in the heart of St. Moritz.
• Youth Hostel St. Moritz – Ideal for budget-conscious travelers who still want a cozy stay.
Fashion & Atmosphere: A Runway on Ice
If there’s one thing that stood out besides the cars, it was the fashion. Women were dressed to impress, wearing luxurious fur coats, designer hats, high-end boots, and carrying bags from brands like Hermès and Chanel. Men sported tailored cashmere coats, leather gloves, and sleek sunglasses. Despite the wealth and exclusivity, the vibe was anything but pretentious—it was elegant, yet fun. People were mingling, laughing, and enjoying champagne under the crisp winter sun, making it an event that was just as much about socializing as it was about cars.
Click links below to shop similar outfits to the ones I wore:
Is The ICE St. Moritz Kid-Friendly?
Yes! The event is family-friendly, and children above 6 years old will likely enjoy it the most. Kids can marvel at the cars, enjoy the snowy scenery, and take part in various activities available in St. Moritz, such as skiing, sledding, and ice skating. Just be prepared to dress them warmly, as temperatures can drop below freezing.
Why You Need to Attend The ICE St. Moritz in 2026
If you missed The ICE St. Moritz 2025, don’t make the same mistake next year. This event is not just for car lovers—it’s an experience that blends luxury, adventure, and style in one of the world’s most breathtaking winter destinations. From watching rare automobiles race across a frozen lake to rubbing shoulders with an elite crowd, this is the kind of event that creates unforgettable memories. This luxury car event on a frozen lake is a must-attend experience for anyone who loves, high fashion, and exclusive winter glamour.
So start planning now—book your flights, secure your hotel, and get your most stylish winter outfit ready. Because when February rolls around again, you won’t want to be sitting at home with FOMO while the world’s elite gather in the Swiss Alps for The ICE St. Moritz!
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