Cheapest places to go skiing in 2024/2025
Skiing can be an expensive hobby, especially with the rising costs of travel and accommodation. To help you get the most out of your winter holiday without breaking the bank, we've compiled a list of the cheapest places to go skiing in Europe for the 2024/2025 season. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner looking to hit the slopes for the first time, these budget-friendly ski destinations will offer you great value for money.
1. Bansko, Bulgaria
Why visit? Bansko is often touted as the best value-for-money ski resort in Europe. With affordable lift passes, inexpensive accommodation, and reasonably priced food and drink, it's a great choice for skiers on a budget.
Highlights:
- Modern ski facilities and a variety of slopes suitable for all levels.
- Lively après-ski scene with plenty of bars and restaurants.
- Beautiful, historic town with a charming old town area.
Average prices:
- Lift pass: £150 per week
- Accommodation: £30-£50 per night for a 3-star hotel
- Meal: £8-£12 per person
Comparison:
- Zermatt, Switzerland:
- Lift pass: £350 per week
- Accommodation: £150-£300 per night for a 3-star hotel
- Meal: £20-£30 per person
2. Poiana Brașov, Romania
Why visit? Poiana Brașov is Romania's premier ski resort, offering stunning Carpathian Mountain scenery and excellent ski conditions. It's one of the most affordable ski destinations in Europe.
Highlights:
- Excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities with well-maintained slopes.
- A variety of off-piste activities, including ice skating and snowshoeing.
- Proximity to the medieval city of Brașov, perfect for a cultural day trip.
Average prices:
- Lift pass: £130 per week
- Accommodation: £40-£60 per night for a 3-star hotel
- Meal: £7-£10 per person
Comparison:
- St. Moritz, Switzerland:
- Lift pass: £350 per week
- Accommodation: £200-£400 per night for a 3-star hotel
- Meal: £25-£35 per person
3. Kranjska Gora, Slovenia
Why visit? Kranjska Gora offers a quaint and picturesque skiing experience. It's known for its family-friendly atmosphere and affordable prices, making it ideal for a budget ski holiday.
Highlights:
- Stunning views of the Julian Alps.
- Well-groomed pistes and a range of slopes for beginners to intermediate skiers.
- Close to the beautiful Lake Bled, a must-visit for its breathtaking scenery.
Average Prices:
- Lift pass: £140 per week
- Accommodation: £35-£55 per night for a 3-star hotel
- Meal: £10-£15 per person
Comparison:
- Verbier, Switzerland:
- Lift pass: £330 per week
- Accommodation: £180-£350 per night for a 3-star hotel
- Meal: £25-£40 per person
4. Jasná, Slovakia
Why visit? Jasná in the Low Tatras is Slovakia's largest ski resort, offering extensive slopes and modern facilities at a fraction of the cost of Western European resorts.
Highlights:
- Over 50 km of ski runs, including great off-piste options.
- Modern ski lifts and excellent snowmaking facilities.
- Vibrant nightlife and plenty of après-ski options.
Average Prices:
- Lift pass: £160 per week
- Accommodation: £45-£65 per night for a 3-star hotel
- Meal: £9-£12 per person
Comparison:
- Davos, Switzerland:
- Lift pass: £340 per week
- Accommodation: £200-£400 per night for a 3-star hotel
- Meal: £20-£30 per person
5. Vogel, Slovenia
Why visit? Vogel is another gem in Slovenia, offering fantastic skiing in the heart of Triglav National Park. It's a lesser-known resort, which keeps prices low and the slopes less crowded.
Highlights:
- Panoramic views of Lake Bohinj and the surrounding mountains.
- Great for both skiing and snowboarding, with a variety of runs.
- A relaxed and friendly atmosphere perfect for families and groups.
Average prices:
- Lift pass: £130 per week
- Accommodation: £35-£55 per night for a 3-star hotel
- Meal: £10-£15 per person
Comparison:
- Grindelwald, Switzerland:
- Lift pass: £320 per week
- Accommodation: £170-£300 per night for a 3-star hotel
- Meal: £25-£35 per person
Tips for budget skiing
- Book early: Secure the best deals on flights, accommodation, and lift passes by booking well in advance.
- Travel off-peak: Avoid the school holidays and peak times to benefit from lower prices and quieter slopes.
- Package deals: Look for all-inclusive packages that offer significant savings compared to booking separately.
- Stay in nearby towns: Accommodation in nearby towns or villages can be much cheaper than staying in the resort itself.
- Learn to ski before the trip: By having the basics of skiing sorted before your ski trip, you can make the most out of your time abroad and hit the slopes right away! Check out our top dry ski slope venues in the UK:
- Cardiff, Wales:Cardiff Ski and Snowboard Centre
- Southampton, Hampshire:Alpine Snowsports Southampton
- Torquay, Devon:Torquay Alpine Ski Club
- Rawtenstall, Lancanshire:The Hill, Ski Rossendale
- Clitheroe, Lancanshire:Pendle Ski Club
- Torquay Alpine Ski Club
Final thoughts
Planning a ski trip on a budget doesn’t mean you have to compromise on quality. Europe offers a variety of affordable ski resorts that provide excellent skiing conditions, modern facilities, and vibrant après-ski scenes. By choosing one of these budget-friendly destinations and following our money-saving tips, you can enjoy a fantastic and affordable ski holiday!
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Looking for more information before you hit the slopes? Check out Dry slope skiing vs snow skiing: All you need to know! and When to book your ski trip: All you need to know!
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