The 8 Top Affordable Ski Resorts in Europe This Winter

Europe boasts some of the most breathtaking mountains, from the majestic Mont Blanc Massif that spans the border between Italy and France to the often-overlooked ranges in Spain’s Sierra Nevada.

Having scaled many of the continent's steepest slopes, whether alongside former Olympians or friends teaching their kids to ski for the first time, I've become adept at maximizing value from a ski trip.

It’s a misconception that great value resorts are only located in remote areas with outdated ski lifts. Skiing on a budget is not just about spending the least amount possible (otherwise, we'd all stay home), but about getting the most rewarding ski experience for your hard-earned money.

I've compiled a list of the finest budget ski resorts in Europe, including a few larger destinations that may be slightly pricier than the cheapest options in the area, yet still offer excellent value for budget-conscious skiers.

1. Sestriere, Italy

Best overall value for money

Average daily cost of a lift pass: €28

This resort provides exceptional value, largely due to its prime location in the heart of Italy's Via Lattea—a ski area featuring eight interconnected resorts in the Piedmont region with 248 miles of slopes, some even connecting to France’s Montgenèvre ski resort. At an elevation of 9186 feet, Sestriere boasts excellent snow reliability. The resort has also invested in 117 brand new snowmakers, ensuring that even in the rare event of low snowfall, you can still enjoy the slopes. Plus, it’s renowned for its Italian cuisine, with fantastic slope-side eateries like Ristorante Pizzeria Da Costa offering delicious pizza at great prices.

2. Grand Tourmalet, France

Best for diverse terrain

Average daily cost of a lift pass: €50

Let’s be honest—the French Alps aren’t the cheapest ski destination in Europe, but they are undoubtedly among the best. For those wishing to glide down its snow-covered slopes without taking a second mortgage, Grand Tourmalet offers a perfect solution. Located in the budget-friendly Pyrenees mountains, a week-long lift pass here starts at approximately €300 per adult.

This stunning resort features 62 miles of slopes and an exciting array of off-piste trails set against the majestic 9438-ft Pic du Midi de Bigorre. It’s an ideal choice for families, offering a wonderful selection of activities to enjoy after the lifts close. Notable experiences include snowmobile adventures (with electric options for kids as young as six), a trip to Pic du Midi’s observatory (the highest in France), and complimentary guided winter hikes.

3. Vogel, Slovenia

Best for newcomers

Average daily cost of a lift pass: €42

Get ready to be impressed: a six-day ski pass for Vogel in Slovenia is priced at just €197. This resort is among Slovenia’s favorites—a winter paradise perched above Bohinj Valley in Triglav National Park. The ski season here is famously long, allowing skiing from November through May, and its 13 miles of slopes cater to everyone, from novice skiers to seasoned pros who can tackle jumps in the resort’s well-kept snow park. First time hitting the slopes? The beginner area’s nursery slopes don’t require a lift pass—just a single cable car fare if you're staying at accommodations below the main resort.

4. Jasná Nízke Tatry, Slovakia

Best for affordable lift passes

Average daily cost of a lift pass: €41

Welcome to Central Europe’s largest ski area, where a six-day lift pass for adults is around €275. What does that investment buy you? For starters, there are 31 miles of Slovakian slopes serviced by 20 lifts, including a state-of-the-art A6 Doppelmayr 15-MGD cable car that whisks skiers to the summit of Mount Chopok in just 11 minutes. Thrill-seekers can take to the freestyle zones, while those more focused on après-ski will find plenty of slope-side bars and clubs to showcase their dance moves (the Happy End club is a fantastic choice to celebrate a successful day on the slopes).

5. Orelle, France

Best for budget-friendly accommodations

Average daily cost of a lift pass: €40

To be transparent, Orelle consists of 10 quaint hamlets and is part of France’s prestigious Les 3 Vallées ski area, which features upscale resorts like Courchevel and Val Thorens. However, Orelle, boasting 93 miles of slopes and 29 ski lifts, proves that choosing a smaller resort can provide fantastic access to the region’s 372 miles of pistes. Its newest lodging option, The Hob, offers double rooms, family accommodations, and six-person dorms, with rates starting at just €99 per night. The cherry on top? A quick ride on the Orelle gondola transports you to the heart of the world’s largest ski area in a mere 13 minutes.

6. Bardonecchia, Italy

Best for easy access

Average daily cost of a lift pass: €46

Bardonecchia was the host for the Winter Olympics in 2006, and unlike many other Olympic venues, its prices have stayed remarkably low. The northwest-facing slopes are exceptionally reliable for snow, and the resort's advanced snowmaking capabilities ensure there's always ample powder. Accessibility is a breeze, as it's only a 90-minute drive from Turin, or you can take the Turin-Bardonecchia-Modane train. With an elevation range from 4260ft to 9180ft, this resort is perfect for those planning multi-destination trips, given its closeness to other fantastic Italian resorts like Sauze d’Oulx.

7. Serre Chevalier, France

Best for guaranteed snow

Average daily cost of a lift pass: €60

Serre Chevalier, the largest ski area in the more affordable southern Alps, may lack the vibrant nightlife of Tignes or the luxury ski butlers found in high-end Courchevel, but that's exactly what makes it appealing. Unpretentious and less crowded than many resorts, it offers excellent value and a diverse range of runs suitable for everyone from beginners to experts, with a particular emphasis on intermediate skiers. Its northeast-facing slopes ensure that its 80 trails retain snow exceptionally well.

8. Alpbach, Austria

Best for alpine charm

Average daily cost of a lift pass: €63

Nestled in the heart of the Tyrol region, this enchanting Austrian ski destination is one of the most picturesque spots to hit the slopes. Since its establishment in 1953, strict building regulations were enforced to maintain its charm—no structure could exceed three stories, and all first and second floors must be wooden. With 70 miles of accessible trails, it's also incredibly family-friendly, featuring four nursery slope areas, and the lift pass includes rides on a shuttle that takes visitors around the resort.

What makes this resort unique is its accommodation, primarily consisting of cozy chalet hotels. Consider staying at the family-operated Hotel Iris, where double rooms are available starting at just €50 per night. Be sure to sample local delicacies, such as Brandenburg Prügeltorte, a delightful cake popular in Austria’s Tyrol region.