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Where Skiing in Europe Is Still Relatively Affordable

Skiers in Borovets, Bulgaria
Where can you still ski affordably? One option is the Borovets ski resort in Bulgaria (pictured). Photo: Getty Images
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November 7, 2025, 2:03 pm | Read time: 4 minutes

Skiing has been getting more expensive for years. But where in Europe can you still ski (somewhat) affordably? A recent analysis by the TV channel Euronews has the answer. TRAVELBOOK presents three affordable ski resorts in Europe and highlights the cheapest options this season.

As winter approaches, many winter sports enthusiasts start thinking about snow and skiing or snowboarding. To the dismay of many, prices have risen significantly in recent years—a full 34.8 percent, according to the news site of the TV channel Euronews, which cites an unnamed study from the beginning of the year. In Italy, the price of a ski pass alone has increased by 40 percent since 2021. Despite these price hikes, there are still a few ski resorts in Europe that offer reasonably priced ski passes. Euronews compared various European regions and identified three affordable ski resorts in Europe.

Bulgaria Is One of Europe’s Most Affordable Ski Resorts

Snowboarder in the Borovets ski resort in Bulgaria
Snowboarder in the Borovets ski resort in Bulgaria

Snow, skis, Bulgaria? Apparently. According to the broadcaster’s survey, Bulgaria is one of the continent’s most affordable ski resorts. In the popular Borovets ski area in the Rila Mountains, adults pay about 52 euros per day for a ski pass, according to Euronews, with early bird discounts available in November and December. A season pass costs 1,020 euros, and those over 75 pay just 54 euros for the entire season. Those without their own equipment can rent skis, poles, and boots for around 20 euros per day. Additionally, the snow is almost guaranteed thanks to the altitude of the Borovets ski area.

Another popular ski area in Bulgaria is Bansko in the Pirin National Park, where, according to the news site, you pay only a third compared to popular Swiss ski resorts. Those who purchase a season pass by the end of November pay 869 euros. Seniors over 75 pay 51 euros.

Accommodations are also reportedly affordable in comparison: A room in a four-star hotel starts at 50 euros per night, and private rentals cost even less.

Skiing in Georgia Is Even Cheaper

Skier in the Gudauri ski resort in Georgia
Skier in the Gudauri ski resort in Georgia

According to the report, Georgia offers even lower prices than Bulgaria: A ski pass in Georgia’s largest and best-equipped ski resort, Gudauri, costs about 25 euros per day, and the season pass is around 200 euros, providing access to all ski areas in the Caucasus country. Renting skis and other equipment costs about 22 euros per day.

Thanks to their elevation, the ski areas in this Eurasian country almost guarantee snow. For example, the Gudauri and Tetnuldi ski areas are located at altitudes of 2,000 to over 3,000 meters. “This makes the ski area one of the most environmentally friendly in Europe, as the ski areas do not rely on artificial snow,” writes Euronews. However, in terms of infrastructure, one should not expect too much in Georgia; rather, skiers should be prepared for simplicity and adventure.

Also interesting: These 7 Ski Resorts in Europe Are Still Real Insider Tips

More on the topic

Skiing in Andorra Is Also Relatively Affordable

The Grandvalira ski resort in Andorra
The Grandvalira ski resort in Andorra

Andorra is one of the least noticed vacation destinations in Europe, so it’s hardly surprising that skiing here is still relatively affordable. Prices are similar to those in Bulgaria: Skiers in Pal Arinsal in the Vallnord ski area pay around 52 euros per day. The Nord season pass, which covers the Pal Arinsal and Ordino-Arcalís areas and about 90 kilometers of ski slopes, costs 750 euros. For 979 euros, you can also get the Andorra Pass, which includes the Grandvalira area. With 140 slopes, it is the largest ski area in the Pyrenees and has been repeatedly awarded as the best ski area in the country at the World Ski Awards.

France’s Ski Resorts Are the Cheapest

The three countries and their ski resorts listed by Euronews offer real alternatives to the classic ski resorts in Switzerland, Italy, and Austria. And although they are quite affordable, they are not the cheapest. At least not according to an analysis by the vacation rental platform Holidu. This platform also published a survey, the so-called Ski Price Index 2025/2026, which compared European ski resorts with more than 20 kilometers of slopes. According to the index, France leads in terms of affordable prices for the upcoming season: The entire top 10 of the cheapest ski resorts is located in the German neighboring country. They are followed by ski resorts in Greece, Spain, Italy, and Serbia.

These Are the 5 Cheapest Ski Resorts in Europe According to Holidu

  1. Artouste – Laruns, France (Average price per day: 43.50 euros)
  2. Lans en Vercors, France (Average price per day: 44.20 euros)
  3. Réallon, France (Average price per day: 45.00 euros)
  4. Autrans – La Sure, France (Average price per day: 45.50 euros)
  5. Roubion les Buisses, France (Average price per day: 47.00 euros)

This article is a machine translation of the original German version of TRAVELBOOK and has been reviewed for accuracy and quality by a native speaker. For feedback, please contact us at info@travelbook.de.

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