Winter is just around the corner – it’s time to plan an active vacation in the snowy mountains. Find out which 8 European resorts offer the best combination of price, quality and magical atmosphere for skiing in the 2025–2026 season

Winter is only a month away, and tourists are already actively planning their winter trips. Some are looking for the coziest Christmas markets, while others are looking for the perfect mountain slopes for skiing and snowboarding. If you dream of a real winter, but don’t want to spend a fortune, this selection is for you.

Extreme tourism expert Tamara Hinson has compiled a list of the best budget ski resorts in Europe on the Lonely Planet blog, where you can enjoy the snow, views and atmosphere without excessive expenses.

Read more about the best places in Europe where you can spend a winter vacation profitably and brightly in this article.

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What factors should you pay attention to when choosing a budget ski destination?

When choosing the best place to ski, tourists analyze many factors, but to make the trip as comfortable as possible and at the same time budget-friendly, you should pay attention to the following details:

1. Value for money - cheap ski passes, affordable accommodation and good infrastructure.

2. Guaranteed snow - the higher the resort is located and the better the snowmaking system works, the more stable the conditions.

3. Accessibility and transport - proximity to large cities or convenient connections significantly reduce costs.

Where to ski in Europe in winter 2025–2026?

Sestriere, Italy – Best Value for Money

In the heart of the Via Lattea ski area (Piedmont), Sestriere is a resort with 248 miles of slopes and a direct connection to Montgenèvre in France.

The slopes reach 2,956m, so snow is guaranteed here, and new snow machines ensure excellent conditions even in warm winters.

On the slopes, Italian cuisine awaits you - for example, at Ristorante Pizzeria Da Costa you can enjoy pizza with a view of the Alps for a very reasonable price.

Grand Tourmalet, France – Best Variety of Slopes

Although the French Alps are not associated with cheap holidays, the resort of Grand Tourmalet in the Pyrenees offers a pleasant exception.

Day passes cost from 53 euros, and over 100 kilometers of slopes provide opportunities for both beginners and pros.

Add to that the Pic du Midi observatory, free hiking tours and children’s activities and you have the perfect family holiday.

Vogel, Slovenia – the best place for beginners

Located in Triglav National Park near the Bohinj Valley, Vogel is a true winter wonderland.

The ski season runs from November to May and the slopes are perfect for beginners.

Bonus – the children’s slopes don’t require a ski pass if you live nearby. Just one cable car ticket and the whole family is on the snow.

Jasná Nízke Tatry, Slovakia – the cheapest ski passes

The largest ski resort in Central Europe with 50 kilometres of slopes and 20 lifts.

The modern A6 Doppelmayr cable car takes you to the top of Chopok in 11 minutes.

Here you can choose from adrenaline-filled freestyle zones and bars for evening après-ski – the Happy End club is especially popular.

Orléans, France – Affordable Accommodation in the Heart of the Three Valleys

Although Orléans is part of the luxurious Les Trois Vallées region, prices are much lower here.

150 kilometers of slopes, 29 lifts and access to 600 kilometers of slopes throughout the area make it an ideal choice.

The new hotel The Hob offers both comfortable rooms and dormitories – and in just 13 minutes the gondola will take you to the heart of Val Thorens.

Bardonecchia, Italy – The most convenient access

The former Olympic resort (2006) has remained surprisingly affordable.

It’s a 90-minute drive or train ride from Turin, and the slopes reach 2,750m.

A modern snowmaking system means skiing is guaranteed even on warm days, and there are other great resorts nearby, such as Sauze d’Oulx.

Serres-Chevalier, France – Best snow and a relaxed atmosphere

This resort in the Southern Alps is the perfect balance between quality and price. With 80 slopes of varying difficulty, a north-easterly orientation and stable snow cover, it’s a reliable choice even in mid-season.

Crowd-free and with stunning views, it’s exactly the kind of place where less is more.

Alpbach, Austria – Alpine charm at its best

Located in the heart of Tyrol, this resort is considered one of the most beautiful in Europe.

112 kilometers of slopes, a family atmosphere, traditional chalets and laws that have preserved authentic architecture since 1953.

We recommend the family-run Iris Hotel - affordable and atmospheric. And don't forget to try the local Brandenberger Prügeltorte - a symbol of Tyrolean cuisine.

If you think that skiing is a luxury, this selection will prove the opposite. From Italy to Slovakia, from Austria to Slovenia - Europe is full of places where you can spend a winter vacation actively, stylishly and on a budget.

Plan your winter trip in advance, book advantageously - and enjoy the magic of the snowy mountains this winter!

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Reminder! The best places to relax in December 2025 - from festive Paris and snowy Scotland to sunny Maldives and Sydney beaches. We have already talked about the weather, season, cultural features, gastronomy and tips for tourists in each direction.

Photo - crystalski.co.uk

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