Top Budget-Friendly Ski Destinations

Skiing is everyone’s favourite winter pastime, with ski resorts having high footfalls during every cold snap. Some of the most popular ski destinations across the world include Alpine regions like Austria, Switzerland, Sweden and Finnish Lapland. This is due to the cold and long winters that these countries see, with thick snow and ice that make winter sports the perfect activities.

If you’re looking for lower-budget ski destinations, looking to lesser-known ski resorts may be your best bet, as there may be a few hidden gems available. Let’s take a look at some of Europe’s best low-budget ski resorts.

8. Bialka Tatrzanska – Poland

Poland may not initially be high on your list of best countries for skiing, however, it is home to some of Europe’s cheapest ski resorts and is perfect if you want a less busy place to refine your skiing skills. Bialka Tatrzanska is one of Poland’s most popular ski resorts and is favoured for its affordability compared to other European ski resorts in Alpine regions. Prices of the ski destinations can vary depending on the length and duration of your stay, as well as the time of year you book, but during low season a day pass costs around 170zł (Polish złoty).

7. Vogel Ski Resort – Slovenia

Covering more than 20 km, Vogel’s ski slopes and ski resorts are one of the largest in Slovenia and one of the most popular places to ski in the country. Slovenia sees a large amount of snowfall in winter months, making it perfect for skiing, and Vogel’s slopes are perfect for both beginner and experienced skiers. For season passes/tickets, prices can range from €196 - €370 for adults, making Vogel one of Europe’s cheapest ski experiences and perfect for those who are more conscious of their budget.

6. Les Menuires – France

The 3 Vallées region in France is cited as the largest ski area in the world, giving an idea of the scope of the Les Menuires ski area. This region of France may be popular, but it is known for being much more cost-effective than many other popular ski destinations in France and Europe. The price of a day ski pass for Les Menuires/Les 3 Vallées ski area costs around €65-€80, and for around a week the price is just under €400.

5. Kolasin 1450 – Montenegro

Montenegro is generally a summertime destination, but the country actually hosts excellent ski regions that are perfect for both experienced and beginner skiers. It’s also a great choice for ski enthusiasts who may be budget-conscious and on the search for a ski experience that won’t cost a fortune. Kolasin 450 may be underrated by ski enthusiasts, but once you experience the resort you’ll wish you’d been sooner. Prices for the Kolasin ski resort are around €25-€30 per day for adults– perfect for budget-conscious travellers!

4. Borovets Resort – Bulgaria

Borovets is one of Bulgaria’s prime ski regions, with beginner to expert-level ski pistes and slopes available to suit your skill level. Bulgaria may initially be known for its Sunny Beach region and charming capital city, but quite often the best ski resorts are underrated and hidden gems which may only be known to ski enthusiasts. What’s more, Borovets is known for its cheaper-than-average prices, helping you to stay on budget while having the time of your life. Daily ski pass prices for adults cost around 80-90 lev (Bulgarian currency).

3. Jasna – Slovakia

Slovakia’s largest ski region, Jasna, has been hailed as one of the most cost-effective and budget-friendly ski resorts in the country and across Europe. With pistes and slopes that accommodate all skill levels and plenty of other winter sports activities to partake in when you’re not skiing, it’s the perfect place for families, couples or avid ski enthusiasts who want to try out slightly lesser-known ski resorts. Daily passes at Jasna range from €40- €70 for adults.

2. Mottarone – Italy

Overlooking Lake Maggiore, the Mottarone Ski region is one of the most picturesque ski areas in the country. Italy is known for its cheap ski resorts, with many ski regions in the country offering lower-than-average daily prices. Mottarone’s ski pistes vary in difficulty, making it perfect for skiers of all skill levels and with all budgets too. Daily prices for ski passes in Mottarone cost around €60 - €75 per day, making it one of the most budget-friendly ski destinations in Europe!

1. Erciyes – Turkey

The transcontinental country of Turkey holds many a hidden gem, with its ski resorts and regions stretching across the country. Although technically in the Asian part of Turkey, Mount Erciyes is located in the central part of Turkey, making it a perfect bridge between the European and Asian parts of the country. Mount Erciyes is one of the best places in Europe for skiing, with perfectly formed slopes and pistes, and a variation of different run colours that cater to all skill levels. Tickets/passes can start at around 60 TRY (Turkish lira) for adults and around 40 TRY for children, making Mount Erciyes the perfect place for low-budget skiing.