budget ski trip europe

14 Of The Best Affordable Ski Resorts In Europe

• 6 January, 2022

From purse-friendly Polish pistes to budget Bulgarian breaks, these European ski destinations pack a punch – without the hefty price tag

06 January, 2022

I f If the thought of glamorous Gstaad and ritzy Zermatt ‘s eye-watering prices makes you buckle at the knees, you’re certainly not alone. Skiing is one of the most expensive pastimes in the world, so it’s little wonder that these opulent alpine destinations have earnt themselves a reputation for draining visitors’ pockets.

But what if you’re in search of a more modest affair? Thankfully, there’s a growing swathe of slopes out there offering more affordable options. From fun-fuelled Bansko to a sleepy Slovenian snow town, these ski resorts all offer sky-high peaks at rock-bottom prices.

Snow on a shoestring: the best budget ski resorts in Europe

Pamporovo, Bulgaria

best for: beginners

Reliable snow, sun and space on the slopes are three big ticks that this less-obvious Bulgarian ski town delivers in bucketfuls. Set among postcard-pretty Norwegian spruce forests in the Rhodope mountain range, Pamporovo is one of Europe’s most southerly ski resorts, offering uncrowded runs that are excellent for beginners, plus a handful of off-piste trails and advanced slopes for more experienced skiers and snowboarders. The best news yet? This snow haven is also one of the most purse-friendly on our radar, so you can dive head-first into the town’s notorious après-ski scene without skimping on ski school, dog sledding or snowmobiling the next day. Bottoms up!

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Grandvalira, Andorra

best for: a snow-meets-city staycation

Host of the 2018 Ski World Cup’s European Cup Finals, this Andorran snow town’s whopping 200km of swoon-worthy slopes make it the largest ski resort in the Pyrenees. But for snow bunnies wanting a day off from the pistes, there’s also a zip line, alpine coaster and freeride area to enjoy. And, if access to other tempting destinations comes high on your list of priorities, we’d highly recommend it: not only is Grandvalira conveniently linked to five other ski resorts, it’s also only a three-hour bus ride away from cultural big-hitters Barcelona and Toulouse. Snow-meets-city staycation, anyone?

Jasna, Slovakia

best for: seriously cheap stays

Perhaps the cheapest ski resort in all of Europe, Jasna also happens to offer truly excellent skiing. With over 40km of pistes, you’ll certainly have enough space to work up an appetite for local potato pancakes stuffed with sheep’s cheese. Despite the rock-bottom pricing, the area has some seriously wanderlust-worthy hotels such as Hotel Galeria Thermal Bešeňová . With an ultra-modern aesthetic and a massive glassy thermal bath enclosed within a forest, it could almost be a high-end resort despite costing about as much as your average Barcelona hostel. If you’re looking for serious bang for your buck and seemingly limitless options for mountain exploration (there are 23 lifts and cable cars), Jasna is guaranteed to tick the box.

Les Houches, France

best for: gentle skiing with jaw-dropping views

We all know that Chamonix tends towards the pricier end of the spectrum for ski holidays, much like Zermatt, Megève and Kitzbühel. A little-known fact, however, is the existence of Les Houches in the Chamonix Mont-Blanc Valley. With the same access to the jaw-dropping views of Mont Blanc piercing the clouds and walks through the adorable hamlets in the area, Les Houches is a cheaper ski resort that’s also more geared towards beginner and intermediate skiers. So if the thought of accidentally flying off a drop makes your heart stop, this is a great spot for getting accustomed to the mountains (including the après-ski element) minus the fear factor.

Madesimo, Italy

best for: backcountry powder

The Dolomites are perhaps the most famous Italian alps resort area, but don’t overlook the mountains of Lombardy – they’re more under-the-radar and far more affordable. Bormio is perhaps its most famous mountain town, but others including Livigno and Madesimo are worthy of a look. The latter, just two and a half hours’ drive from Milan (passing Lake Como en route) offers varied and extensive skiing, with ample, uncrowded piste terrain and interesting backcountry powder routes. A popular haunt for Milanese snow lovers, Madesimo has lashings of charm and a quintessentially Italian après-ski scene.

Poiana-Brasov, Romania

best for: storybook scenery

Straight out of a scene from The Nutcracker, there’s something ethereal and utterly fairytale-like about Poiana-Brasov. Home to wooden huts nestled among pines heaving under snow and grand old hotels that glow from within, it’s an enchanting option for an inexpensive ski getaway. Book into the five-star Hotel Aurelius for as little as £55 a night (unbelievable, we know). Not only does it look and feel like a castle, but it’s even surrounded by a moat, so call us Rapunzel and catch us never actually leaving the hotel.

Vogel-Bohinj, Slovenia

best for: crystalline lakes and cross-country skiing

The ski area of Vogel-Bohinj gives new meaning to the word “breathtaking”. With a gondola that climbs almost vertically up the enormous peaks dropping into a crystalline lake, you could almost swear you’re in New Zealand rather than Eastern Europe. Thanks to its positioning on the lake, there’s also an air of St Moritz, minus the hefty price tag. Gather a crowd of real winter sports lovers for this trip to make the most out of the resort’s cascading slopes and cross-country skiing trails.

Les Menuires, France

best for: groups and down-to-earth charm

Les Menuires is without a doubt the cheapest way to do Les Trois Vallées. It shares a skiing area with Courchevel and Méribel, but with cheaper accommodation and less of a focus on glamour. Built right into the mountainside, the resort area is great for groups of friends who are keen to rent a traditional chalet and party on the slopes by day but return to their cocoon for homemade fondue and vin chaud come dinnertime.

Livigno, Italy

best for: alpine Italian fare

For an injection of Italian spirit into a ski holiday that isn’t in the Dolomites, look into Livigno, right on the Swiss border. With consistent powder, a good balance of partying and chilling, as well as cheap takes on northern Italian food, we’re sold. After a long day on the slopes, book into Angels & Demons (make sure to get a seat on the ground floor, which has a view of the mountain) for an Italian meal with Alpine influences including homemade salami, mushroom-saffron risotto and bucketloads of Tuscan red, all of which will only set you back by about £20. A lift pass at Livigno will also score you a free half day at otherwise wallet-draining St Moritz, just over the border. Livigno is somewhat tricky to reach from Italian airports such as Milano, so we suggest arriving from Innsbruck.

Borovets, Bulgaria

best for: fair-weather skiers

Set on the northern slopes of Bulgaria’s Rila mountain range, Borovets spills down the side of the Musala Ridge. With a practically balmy average temperature of five degrees in January and near guaranteed powder through April , the £144 week-long lift ticket feels pretty modest (especially when compared with a pass for a week in Aspen , which is almost quadruple the price). The clean and spacious hotels such as the Samokov and the Rila are also only around £40 a night, making this an absolute steal for a snow holiday.

Flachau, Austria

best for: uncrowded pistes

Part of the Ski Amadé network, one of Europe’s most expansive skiing areas, Flachau is a favourite among Austrians that has been sheltered from a heavy influx of tourists thanks to buffering from Kitzbühel and St Anton. With wide-open cruisers weaving between thickets of pines and huts dotted across the sprawling pistes serving up crispy rösti and cheap pints, it’s an authentic Austrian skiing experience without the cost that’s impossible to avoid somewhere like Lech . The Ski World Cup is held here in January, further proving its credentials as a seriously good ski resort.

Serre-Chevalier-Briançon, France

best for: peace and quiet

Surrounding Briançon, the highest-altitude French town, as well as an agglomeration of other pocket-sized villages, this area is exactly the place to go for a relaxed holiday with friends and family, away from the après-ski buzz typical of French resorts. Rather than eating out, make like a local and stock up on cheese, wine and chocolate as well as glass pots of yoghurt for breakfast, all from the quaint wooden shops in town. Time feels slower here, and that’s exactly what you should come here for. Make the most of the glades tucked away across the mountain during the day, and get cosy with a Scrabble board by the fire come nightfall.

Bansko, Bulgaria

best for: après-ski

Home to picturesque pine forests and surprisingly high peaks, Bulgaria’s Bansko has been one of the top budget destinations on our radar for a little while now. Ripping through glades and watching the surrounding icy mountaintops from the gondola make for a wholesome day out, while evenings are spent partying with the Euro crowd at EDM-fuelled Happy End by the base. Despite Bansko’s smaller presence on the ski scene, Happy End hosts performances from the likes of Eva Mendes and Baccara. For something more chilled, jet out to the hot springs at nearby Dobrinishte.

Davos, Switzerland

Best for: varied slopes

Sharing 320km of ski runs with neighbouring Klosters, Davos is not only renowned for its powdery pistes, but also it’s wallet-friendly allure. Although its restaurant prices are slowly climbing, you’ll still find plenty of locally owned (read: affordable) mountainside bistros – La Cave is our pick for fondue – in this snow-sure haven. Better yet, with accommodation options aplenty, rally the squad and settle in for a weekend filled with good food, great runs and all-night-long après.

This article was updated on 6 January 2022.

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Best budget ski resorts in Europe this winter

Nov 9, 2023 • 8 min read

Finding Europe's cheapest ski resorts isn't hard – if you know where to look © Sinenkiy / Getty

As every skier knows, there is something more fearsome than even the iciest cliff face: the cost of a ski trip.

A week’s lift pass in major European resorts can cost around €300/$321USD, with some rising to even dizzier heights. Add flights, accommodation fees and the breathtaking prices for standard burgers and flat beer and it’s enough to send shivers down your spine. In a time of rising cots of living; is there even such thing as affordable European ski getaway? 

We slalomed across Europe  to seek out the snowy grail: well-sized ski areas where a high-season six-day lift pass costs less than €275/$294USD. Here are the top ski resorts in Europe for budget travelers this winter.

1. Borovets, Bulgaria Best for: the party crowd

Borovets has been a winter playground since the late 19th century. Hemmed by evergreens, its 36 miles (58km) of mostly blue (beginner) and red (intermediate) runs weave beneath Bulgaria ’s mightiest peak, Mt Musala, reaching a height of 8398ft (2560m).

For better or worse, Borovets can be a favorite among snow-bound stag (bachelor party) groups who thunder down its pistes before stamping their ski boots in bars and basement clubs. Follow them towards cheap beers, but beware of drink promos involving rakia (a potent fruit-based booze).

Cost of accommodations: Budget accommodations often involve boxy hotels or basic apartments, but it’s hard to fault a week’s stay in a double room for around €300.

High-season lift pass price: Around €178/$190USD for six days.

How to get to Borovets: The journey from the capital city Sofia is around 90 minutes, with various companies running transfer services starting at €30/$32USD  (and no extra charge for ski carriage). Even cheaper is a bus to Samokov and then a shuttle.

2. Vogel, Slovenia Best for: beautiful views

Beneath Slovenia ’s mythic Mt Triglav , believed by early Slavs to be the home of a triple-headed deity, lies low-key Vogel Ski Resort . With 13 miles (22km) of blue and red pistes, it’s hardly one of Europe’s biggest resorts, nor is it reliably snow-sure: but Vogel’s a bargain, with unforgettable views of the Julian Alps. 

After arrival, transport costs are zero if your guesthouse has signed up for the bus scheme across Bohinj Valley. Also free are beauty spots within close driving distance: Lake Bohinj (40 minutes) and ethereal Lake Bled (one hour), looking all the prettier under a dusting of snow.

Cost of accommodations: Some guesthouses shutter their doors for winter, but nightly rates in Ukanc, downhill of the ski lifts, skirt a budget-friendly €75/$80USD per double (with more options in Ribčev Laz).

High-season lift pass price: Around €188/$201USD for five days. 

How to get to Vogel: Vogel is a 90-minute drive from Ljubljana Airport, or reduce costs with a train ride to Bohinjska Bistrica.

3. Sauze d’Oulx, Italy Best for: intermediate skiers

Sprawling across the France-Italy border, the gargantuan 273-mile (440km) Via Lattea (Milky Way) ski area has sheltered, tree-lined runs galore. The lion’s share is on the Italian side, easily reached from Sauze d’Oulx . With two-thirds of posted areas rated red, this is prime terrain for intermediate skiers; and in a resort of this size, there’s always somewhere to see off the crowds.

Despite being a well-oiled machine of the winter sports industry, the core of Sauze d’Oulx village has kept its charm: cobblestoned and lined with trattorie pouring out Piedmont wine to accompany polenta with rabbit, deep-fried vegetables and other northern Italian fare.

Cost of accommodations: Self-catering apartments offer the best value, with week-long stays close to Clotes chair lift costing less than €600/$642USD.

High-season lift pass price: €212/$227USD for six days (Via Lattea Italian side).

How to get to Sauze d’Oulx: 90-minute private transfers from Turin Airport to Sauze d’Oulx cost around €40/$42USD. Halve that with a bus to Porta Nuova followed by a train to Oulx station.

4. Jasná Nízke Tatry, Slovakia Best for: night skiing

Slovakia ’s largest ski resort has high peaks and low prices. Jasná is a 30-mile (49km) spider web of pistes astride Mt Chopok (6640ft/2024m), with around 20 speedy lifts, snow-making across more than half its area, a freeride zone and night skiing. 

Jasná’s also at the heart of Slovak highland culture, which means fireside yarns about folk heroes accompanied by hearty shepherd cuisine. The latter adapts well to the budget skier’s table: a whopping serving of national dish bryndzové halušky (gnocchi-sized dumplings with sheep’s cheese and bacon) leaves enough change from a €10 note for a couple of Zlatý Bažant beers. 

For more mountain magic, Vlkolínec , a fairy-tale 14th-century hamlet roosting on a hillside, is only 45 minutes away.

Cost of accommodations: Double rooms in Jasná start from €100 per night. 

High-season lift pass price: Prices start at €154/$165USD for six days (via Gopass ; €274/$293USD with night skiing).

How to get to Jasná: Budget flights reach Poprad-Tatry Airport, which is less than an hour’s drive away. Direct transfer by private car can cost from €30 per person. Alternatively, a taxi, train and bus combo (via Liptovský Mikuláš) costs less than €10.

5. Boí Taüll, Spain Best for: après-ski culture

Boí Taüll towers at 6626ft (2020m) above sea level... and that’s its lowest point. Some of the Pyrenees’ highest pistes are here, draped across a resort that’s crowd-free, family-friendly and north-facing – crucial for long-lasting snow.

Once you’re in, this is a sweet ski area with 28 miles (45km) of mostly red and black (advanced) trails. Off the slopes, Catalan warmers like spiced snails and trinxat (potato-cabbage hash) fend off the cold, while a chocolate-oozing crepe from Ca la Pepa makes for a delectable low-cost dessert. The region’s architectural riches also buoy the selection of budget après-ski activities on offer, with visitors able to spend lazy afternoons ogling world-famous frescoes in the Vall de Boí’s nine Unesco-listed Romanesque churches.

Cost of accommodations: Move fast to secure an apartment or hostel for less than €450/$482USD a week.

High-season lift pass price: €228/£244USD per six days.

How to get to Boí Taüll: By road, it’s quicker from  Toulouse-Blagnac than from Girona or Barcelona-El Prat airports. Change buses in Vielha to reach Taüll.

6. Białka Tatrzańska, Poland Best for: beginners

Poland ’s biggest winter sports resort, Białka Tatrzańska , is a concoction of beginner ski terrain, country hospitality and views of the Carpathian Mountains. Kotelnica, Bania and Kaniówka form one interconnected ski area (11 miles/18km in all) that’s ideal for skiers still finding their feet. Once confident, the same lift pass grants access to neighboring resorts where harder challenges await. For the perfect après-ski treat go to Terma Bania for toasty-warm outdoor bathing with views of the Tatras.

Cost of accommodations: Private rooms, often dressed with wood-carved furniture and grandmotherly lace, are a snip at around €40/£42USD, usually including a monster breakfast. Speaking of food, traditional Polish pierogi (dumplings) and żurek (sour soup) cost less than €4/$4.28USD, and shots of Żubrówka (bison grass-infused rye vodka) are generously free-poured.

High-season lift pass price: €128/$137USD for six days for the multi-resort Tatry Super Ski Pass .

How to get to Białka Tatrzańska: Private transfers from Kraków Airport are good value for groups (around €105/$112USD for four people) while public buses from Kraków Główny train station (two hours) are great value (around €8/$8.60USD).

7. Sudelfeld–Bayrischzell, Germany Best for: experienced skiers

Compared to expansive resorts in neighboring Austria, 19-mile (31km) Sudelfeld–Bayrischzell is modest – but so are its prices. There is extensive use of snow canons throughout the season, giving skiers access to a swathe of exciting red runs and a freeride area that’s ideal for experienced riders. Meaty Bavarian dishes aren’t always cheap, but low-cost mainstays like currywurst and flammkuchen (baked flat-breads slathered in sour cream and onions) will keep you full and leave funds for sampling a stein or two of Weissbier.

Cost of accommodations: A week’s stay in a snug guesthouse will set you back €550/$589USD (a significant saving on the big-name cross-border resorts). Those wanting to slash costs further can opt for dormitory-style accommodations, such as that found at Jugendherberge , where bed and breakfast comes in at an incredible €25/$26.70USD a night.

High-season lift pass price: Around €260/$278USD per six days.

How to get to Sudelfeld–Bayrischzell: From well-connected München Hauptbahnhof there are regular trains (€27/$29USD, 90 minutes) to Bayrischzell.

8. Val Cenis, France Best for: long blue runs

Who needs Val d’Isère’s glamorous ski scene when the  French Alps can be yours for a très petit price tag? The five villages of Val Cenis access 78 miles (125km) of velvety trails. Beginners can roam far, with blue runs extending from village level to the top of the resort – a sky-scraping 9186ft (2800m) in altitude – plus there are abundant red and a handful of black runs. You’re also a mere schuss from the Italian border, meaning authentic pizza at moderate prices – what more could you ask for?

Cost of accommodations: Apartments that sleep four to six people regularly go for €550/$589USD per week; per person, those are hostel rates for a balcony view of the Alps.

High-season lift pass price: From €227/$227USD for six days.

How to get to Val Cenis: Turin, Grenoble and Chambéry airports are all less than two hours away. By public transport, TGV (fast train) hub Modane is a 45-minute bus ride from the valley (from €13.50/$14.46USD).

This article was first published Dec 19, 2018 and updated Nov 9, 2023.

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The best affordable ski holidays in Europe

From hidden snowy landscapes to underrated eastern European destinations, these are the top spots to ski for a steal

Skiing has developed a reputation as an expensive pastime. It’s a  hobby too often reserved for those who don’t flinch at the  cost  of a luxe resort in the Alps or Pyrenees – but l uckily, there are hundreds of resorts dotted across Europe, and some of the most unexpected locations offer an affordable holiday on the slopes. Popular skiing destinations such as France , Austria and Italy don’t have to mean splashing out – dramatic mountainscapes and miles of runs can be enjoyed on a budget if you know where to look. Off-the-beaten track destinations such as Slovenia and Bulgaria also have more than their fair share of snowy landscapes perfect for snowsports, with fewer crowds and more pleasing prices. 

All prices used reflect the 2024 ski season at the time of writing and may be subject to change. 

India-Jayne Trainor is a British-Australian travel writer based in London.  At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our  editorial guidelines  and check out our latest  travel guides  written by local experts.

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Europe’s best budget-friendly skiing

1.  Les Menuires, France

A slightly more affordable way to hit up France ’s famous  Les 3  Vallées (Three  Valleys), Les Menuires is frequently overshadowed by the mighty trio of Val Thorens, Méribel and Courchevel. Sharing its ski area with the latter two, staying here allows access to 370 miles of world-famous slopes that have something for everyone, from those snowploughing on their first skis to experts wanting to go off-piste. Accommodation is made up of 1960s architecture and high-rises: it’s basic, but that’s what makes the resort affordable. Plus, when the days are spent out on the pistes and evenings are filled with apres-ski, aesthetics aren’t a priority. 

Ski passes for the 3 Valleys, including Les Menuires in the 2023/24 season cost €300 (£262) for six days. Crystal Ski offers seven-night half-board holidays starting from £588pp.  

2.  Borovets, Bulgaria

One of another trio of resorts, this time in Bulgaria. Borovets, along with its counterparts Bansko and Pamporovo, hide some of the most underrated and budget-friendly skiing in Europe.  Easy to reach from Sofia, Borovets enjoys guaranteed powder thanks to its prime location in Rila, Bulgaria’s highest mountain range. Expect comfortable hotels, gear rental and ski lessons for less than half the price of the average trip to St Anton or Val d’Isere – particularly when the week-long ski pass is less than £200 (€228). With 58km of pistes, it’s smaller than many European ski resorts – but the slopes here cater mainly to beginners and intermediate skiers, making it ideal for those keen to try out the sport without breaking the bank. 

Hotels in Borovets start at around €45 ( £40) per night, while lift passes including equipment hire cost €367 (£321) for seven days. Balkan Holidays offers packages for return flights from the UK and seven nights’ accommodation for £498 per person.

3.  Vogel-Bohinj, Slovenia

Slovenia , usually popular for summer trips to the shores of Lake Bled, also gets stellar snowfall not far away in Triglav National Park. There are just 22km of slopes, many of which are easy and gentle, but there’s also plenty of off-piste terrain for adventurers to explore. Overlooking the icy waters of Lake Bohinj, the lift passes are around half the price of other notable European resorts, while Bled and Ljubljana are less than an hour’s drive away.  

Ski passes at Vogel-Bohinj cost €220 (£192) for seven days for adults, and €110 (£96) for children. Heidi offers one week holidays including flights, accommodation and private transfers for £824pp.

4.  Livigno, Italy

Over 115km of slopes, a terrain park full of black runs and duty-free shopping are what draw most people to the slopes of Livigno, which is part of the Italian Dolomites. Food here is well-priced as is the comfortable chalet-style accommodation – and lift passes can be combined to include access to nearby St Moritz, where budget is a word not often heard. Livigno is a fairly easy drive from Milan and has loads of late-night bars and clubs, making it popular with a young, party-loving crowd. 

There are affordable direct flights from across Europe to Milan Bergamo Airport. Ski passes in high season for 2023 are €345 (£301) for one week and hotels start at around €250 (£219), based on two sharing over seven days. 

5.  Arinsal, Andorra

Andorra may be small but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in mountains – there’s one almost everywhere you look. In their well-respected Vallnord ski region, Arinsal has 90km of slopes reaching over 2,500m. The higher elevations are home to the red and black runs, while intermediate skiers should head to the area around Pal, which offers challenging pistes alongside ski schools to brush up on skills. The nightlife here has a bit of a wild reputation and Andorra la Vella is a day trip away for non-skiing days. Best of all, multi-day ski passes don’t have to be used consecutively. 

Crystal Ski has seven-night packages available for 2024, including flights to Toulouse, starting at £535pp based on two people in self-catered accommodation. They also offer free child lift passes. 

6.  Ischgl, Austria

Whether you snowboard, ski or simply après, Ischgl in Austria ’s western Tyrol mountains ticks all the boxes for an action-packed ski holiday that comes in (mostly) under budget compared to other resorts. Ischgl has joined forces with the nearby Swiss resort of Samnaun, meaning there are 365km of trails for all abilities, along with excellent off-piste areas. This golden combination of resorts enjoys a long season, usually from November to May – and if you arrive at the start or tail end of the season, the lift pass is slightly cheaper. Accommodation is varied, with many ski-in ski-out options, but these tend to get booked up before the first powder even hits the ground. 

Direct flights from London to Innsbruck start at £66pp (€75) in January 2024. Sunweb has holiday deals for £645pp for seven days, inclusive of accommodation and lift passes, but excluding flights. 

7.  Serre Chevalier, France

Boasting the largest ski area in the southern Alps –  with more than 250km of pistes  – the lesser-visited Serre Chevalier suddenly seems far more affordable when you consider the range of nearby accommodation options. Surrounding Serre Chevalier are the towns of St Chaffrey, La Salle Les Alpes, Le Monêtier-les-Bains, Briançon and Chantemerle, all offering plenty of places to stay. The latter three towns each have their own lift passes if you don’t want to go for the combined Serre Chevalier pass, which is less than €300 for the week. Although there’s terrain for all levels, Serre Chevalier is particularly family-friendly, with beginner runs, family passes and limited late-night après parties. 

Ski passes at Serre Chevalier for a family of four costs €1275 (£1114) for a week during high season.  Snowtrex offers family holidays based on two adults and two children from £554pp, including six-day lift passes. 

8.  San Vito di Cadore, Italy

In the Italian Dolomites, there’s one name that hogs the limelight in the skiing world, and that’s Cortina d’Ampezzo. However, right next door, the tiny town of San Vito di Cadore offers a low-cost alternative. With just 20km of runs, this place is ideally suited for those learning to ski or families with little skiers – there are nursery slopes, family discounts and an amusement park. San Vito di Cadore is, however, part of the Dolomiti Superski Complex, which covers a whopping 1200km of pistes. With the Skipass de Valle you can access all of these, including Cortina d’Ampezzo, Alpe di Siusi and Val Gardena. 

Wizz Air has flights to Venice in January 2024 from £38 (€43). Ski passes at San Vito di Cadore cost €42 (£37) per day for adults and a double room in Hotel Boite starts from just £79 (€90) per night.  

9.  Jasná Nízke Tatry, Slovakia

The largest resort in Slovakia and definitely the most budget-friendly, Jasná, in the lower Tatras mountains, has all the goulash, fresh powder and quality gear you could ask for. With accommodation often coming in at less than £30 (€34) per night, restaurants serving hearty eastern European cuisine and 50km of pistes, Slovakia might well be the best affordable ski destination in Europe. Runs range from beginner to expert, and activities that don’t involve snow include Tatralandia Aquapark and some popular nightclubs frequented by local tourists – we’ll say na zdravie to that.  

Ski passes for high season 2023/24 in Jasná are €45 (£39) per day. Direct flights with WizzAir fly from London to Poprad and start at £36 (€41) in January 2024. Snowtrex has seven nights at the Residence Nube d'Argento for £192 (based on two sharing). 

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The Most Budget-Friendly Ski Destinations In Europe To Visit This Winter

Skiing isn't often thought of as a budget-friendly vacation activity, and depending on where you're going, it's not. Excluding flights and accommodations, skiers can still expect to pay well over $1,000 each to tackle Europe's most luxurious slopes for a week (Zermatt in Switzerland, St. Anton in Austria, and many others). Ski resorts in Europe offer some of the most sought-after slopes in the world, and the Alps that run through France, Italy, and much of southern Europe feature pristine runs with a fabulous range of difficulties among the pistes on offer. However, these world-class skiing experiences come with a price. 

That said, planning a budget skiing trip isn't impossible, and finding great destinations — including those tucked into hamlets along these legendary Alps peaks — is actually quite achievable. Europe is gifted with an enormous range of geographies, including numerous surging mountain ranges that deliver some of the world's most enthralling hiking, skiing, and outdoor adventure opportunities. From the magical climes of Eastern Europe, such as those found in Bansko and Borovets in Bulgaria, to the hidden gems along the Italian and French border, Europe boasts plenty of quality yet budget-friendly ski destinations worth considering.  

Bansko, Bulgaria

Bansko is a ski town located in southwest Bulgaria. Situated about two hours by car from Sofia and fairly close to both the North Macedonian and Grecian borders, Bansko is nestled in the foothills of the Pirin Mountains, and the country's Pirin National Park encompasses its landscape. During the colder months, skiing and snowboarding take over the town, and there's even a large contingent of digital nomads that flock to the community. Along with providing excellent winter recreation, the mountain environment is also home to a number of hot springs. Visitors will find both luxurious hot spring amenities, as well as free, community spring baths around the area.

When considering budget skiing, Bansko is a fabulous destination, with a lift ticket currently going for just 515 Bulgarian Lev ($282) for six days on the mountain at Bansko Ski Resort . Once you've got your passes, the ski resort opens up with 47 miles of skiing landscapes and a peak altitude of 8,202 feet. The mountain runs sprawl across 18 individual ski slopes with two black pistes and 11 red slopes for experienced skiers, as well as six blue and two orange runs for beginners. Skiing here is inexpensive, but it's certainly not lacking.

Białka Tatrzańska, Poland

The Super Ski Pass unlocks 95 ski slopes across ski resorts in Podhale, Spisz, and Pieniny, and the lift pass currently costs $137 for six days, making it a fantastic bargain. The ideal home base to access these resorts, the town of Białka Tatrzańska is situated in Poland's southern extent, just shy of the Slovakian border. Getting here from Kraków will only take about two hours by car, and you can travel directly to the ski town by bus from Kraków for a bargain price, too.

Once you're up on the rise of the Tatra Mountains, there's truly an abundance of slopes to choose from. The area is covered by 37 miles of ski slopes and almost 12.5 miles of cross-country trails (across seven individual runs) for skiers to explore. Many ski resorts also feature snow park zones for those looking for intense speeds and terrains with boxes, handrails, and jumps. Throughout the various resorts, you'll find both advanced slopes and beginner pistes, making for an inexpensive ski community that's ideal for advanced skiers, beginners, and families. Another budget-friendly skiing alternative to Switzerland , the resort village of Zakopane is also only 14 miles south of Białka Tatrzańska. 

La Thuile, Italy

Abutting the border with France and directly across Mont Blanc from Chamonix, the town of La Thuile sits in the shadows of some of Europe's most iconic peaks. The Matterhorn's pyramid top is just a short distance off to the east (as well as Switzerland's Mont Vélan and Grand Combin), and Grandes Jorasses and Aiguille des Glaciers within the Mont Blanc expanse provide stunning visual relief from the west and north. There are also a few reliable road routes that span the mountainous terrain, allowing for access to Montreux and Lausanne to the north, as well as Geneva on the other end of Lac Léman. 

Geneva, in particular, acts as a potential access point for skiers coming to this northern corner of Italy to bask in the alpine air. La Thuile is actually 30 minutes closer to Geneva than Turin (an hour and a half versus two) by car, and Milan (three hours) is also within a reasonable distance. In essence, you can enjoy a similar experience of skiing in Switzerland without the lofty price tag. 

Upon arriving in La Thuile, skiers can expect all the trappings of a remote mountain community, as well as the endearing charm that dominates their allure. Moreover, La Thuile is an inexpensive destination to partake in winter activities, with a six-day pass in the high season going for €285 ($305). The community's Espace San Bernardo ski park covers 95 miles of slopes, attracting both novice and experienced skiers. 

Ruka, Finland

Ruka is located in the far north of Finland, placing it firmly within view of the Northern Lights. The town is also not far from Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort, one of the country's preeminent Arctic resorts for Northern Lights viewing . In Ruka, a lift ticket will currently cost you $217 during the low season (October, November, and after May) and $242 during the high season (December to May).

Ruka Ski Resort offers 200 days of open skiing, with the season officially kicking off in October, allowing for last-minute holiday planning most of the year. Ruka features 39 slopes of varying difficulty, as well as 22 lifts. There's also a walking trail for those looking to take a break from the powder while still enjoying the fresh alpine air in this extreme latitude.

Beyond skiing, Ruka is situated near the Lapland region's Oulanka National Park. Visitors can kayak, mountain bike, and hike in this gorgeous outdoor environment. While this part of Finland is often overlooked due to its remoteness, the natural scenery is truly magical up this far north.

Jasná Nízke Tatry, Slovakia

This Slovakian hamlet of snow sports is a fantastic budget option for anyone making the trek over to Europe. The mountainside community of Jasná Nízke Tatr is right in the heart of Slovakia; it's about a three-and-a-half-hour road journey from Bratislava to Jasná Station (or roughly four from nearby Vienna or Budapest). Once you're in the resort area that climbs up the side of Mt. Chopok, you'll come face to face with 20 quick lifts that facilitate 30 miles of ski slopes. More than half the resort is supported by snow-making machines as well, so even if the weather isn't at its absolute peak, the resort is still fully coated in perfect, powdery snow. As far as budget skiing, lift passes to ski at Jasná typically cost around $145 for six days. 

This resort also offers night skiing, and if you're considering a multi-stop ski holiday that covers a few destinations in Europe, Jasná is one location among 10 resorts strewn across Central Europe that can be skied with the Smart Season Pass. Additional slopes in Poland, the Czech Republic, Austria, and elsewhere in Slovakia fill out a lineup covering about 125 miles of pistes.

Borovets, Bulgaria

Only about 90 minutes away from the Bulgarian capital of Sofia by either train or car, Borovets is an outdoor sports paradise, with hiking, climbing, equestrian activities, tennis, paintball, and paragliding available on and around the resort town's slopes. Come wintertime, however, the terrain naturally becomes inundated with snowboarding, skiing, night skiing, as well as winter horseback riding.

Currently, a ski pass for the resort only costs around $200 for six days on the slopes during peak seasons. Borovets is characterized by mostly red and blue runs, leaning toward beginner and intermediate skiers. However, even if you're a steadier rider, the atmosphere off the slopes still provides much to get excited about. Borovets is a famed spot for those seeking the nightlife aspects of a ski vacation and is a well-known destination for evening drinks and bachelor parties. Cheap drinks on tap add to the budget-friendly nature of Borovets, and the nightclub atmosphere is potent.

Vogel, Slovenia

Vogel isn't a gigantic skiing destination, as the slopes of Vogel Ski Resort only cover 13 miles of trails that span beginner and intermediate difficulties. While this may not be the most ideal spot for advanced riders, Vogel pairs its cheap lift tickets with some spectacular sightseeing. The cost of a lift pass for six days is currently just $214, which also includes access to the slopes in nearby Kranjska Gora . The area is buffered by the Bohinj Valley (and Lake Bohinj) and sits in the shadows of Mount Triglav, a historic mountaintop of early Slavic mythology. 

On top of the skiing available here, wintertime paragliding and snow tubing are also exciting activities to add to your itinerary. Slovenia is an underappreciated gem in the landscape of Europe, and with a car journey only taking about 90 minutes from Ljubljana (and a train requiring about two hours), this is a great place to unwind on the slopes midway through or at the end of an epic European getaway.

Sauze d'Oulx, Italy

The Italian ski town of Sauze d'Oulx is located just outside Turin amid a number of remarkable peaks along the France-Italy border. The Via Lattea ski area spreads out across 273 miles of forested mountain climbs that actually pour over into France. However, the majority of the ski slopes and infrastructure are situated on the Italian side, serviced primarily by Sauze d'Oulx. A lift pass for six days during the high ski season will only set you back a little over $200. 

Since the region receives plenty of sunshine throughout the year, the majority of the runs in this ski area are buoyed by artificial snow machines, augmenting the surface without hesitation if the need arises. Sauze d'Oulx is dominated by intermediate blue and red runs, providing a great environment that caters to casual skiers and snowboarders. However, this ski paradise also facilitates off-piste skiing opportunities, and local English-speaking guides are available to take advanced skiers to untamed mountain trails.

Mayrhofen, Austria

Skiing in Austria is a magical experience. The country's south is dominated by alpine forests with mountaintops of the Alps coursing through the landscape. Its western reach is particularly blessed when it comes to skiing, and Mayrhofen is but one fantastic destination. Roughly an hour by car from Innsbruck (and just a bit longer by public transit), Mayrhofen is situated delicately within the rising fingers of a range beginning with the Hochfeiler peak that separates Austria from its southern border with Italy.

Mayrhofen isn't as cheap as some of the other destinations on this list, with a six-day Superskipass costing $372, but you'll enjoy access to a truly sprawling landscape of ski lifts and slopes in the region. The pass allows you to access the entire skiing infrastructure in the Zillertal region, which encompasses 338 miles of slopes and 180 lifts across four gigantic skiing areas. This is a great option for those looking to mix up their runs a bit with multiple days or novel slopes in a truly fabulous environment.

Aussois, France

Cheap prices may seem too good to be true in France, but you'll find them in Aussois . A six-day ski lift package starts at $110, with undiscounted adult prices still going for a vastly affordable $206. While the Sauze d'Oulx resort trails filter into France to the southwest, Aussois sits directly north of this complex, sprawling across the Vanoise mountain massif. 

Skiers traveling to this French hamlet will find 34 miles of skiing slopes, and they all face south, meaning you'll need to plan a visit during the height of the winter season for the best experience. Still, a trip here is one that's gifted with very light crowds, even at the height of peak skiing season. Furthermore, a lift pass includes access to the five surrounding ski resorts in the area. This means that a six-day ski trip to Aussois allows you to carve up powder on a new set of slopes every day of the trip. 

Jahorina, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Great skiing isn't contained to just the northern or mountainous eastern extents of Europe. Jahorina, located in the Balkans, is an incredibly cheap destination to hit the slopes, with peak season lift passes going for $118 for six days. Located less than an hour from Sarajevo, the mountain played host to a number of events during the 1984 Winter Olympics, reflecting the quality of the slopes. However, we should note that Jahorina is a low-altitude mountain compared to others on this list, meaning a ski trip here is best planned for the peak season during January and February. 

The mountain features a healthy mix of rated slopes to accommodate all types of skiers. Recent investment in the resort has also improved the lift systems, and snow-making capabilities have been added to nearly half the downhill tracts, resulting in a fantastic place to ski in Europe for a bargain price.

10 Cheapest ski resorts in Europe to enjoy this Winter

When the sun goes out, to some people, it’s the end of the traveling season until the next summer but to the adventurous, winter is another season to see the world from a different perspective. And with winter around the corner, some people are looking to stay active and adventurous and one of the first winter activities that come to everyone’s mind is winter skiing. Honestly, everyone would want to head up to the mountains, enjoy the alpines and the thrill that comes with dodging trees while slopping down the mountain skiing – but let’s face it, skiing doesn’t come cheap. But what if I told you that I’ve got a list of the cheapest ski resorts in Europe that you can enjoy without having to sell an arm or leg.

Yes, some of them may not be the most famous ski resorts in Europe but you’ll still have a blast in the alpines. And I realize that the word “cheap” is relative but to give you a hint, the cheapest European ski resorts included in this list are ones whose ski pass is less than 250 € for 6 days.

Cheapest ski resorts in Europe

1. les houches, france.

Although it is a bit overshadowed by other famous and pricey ski resorts like Courchevel in the French Alps, Les Houches is one of the cheapest ski resorts in France right in the Chamonix Mont-Blanc valley. Imagine getting the incredible views of Mont Blanc while going easy on your wallet.

With a huge price tag that comes with opting for other Chamonix ski resorts even going as far as 500 € in the high season, Les Houches is one of the affordable ski resorts to opt for. And with an elevation of ( 950 – 1900) m and 55 km of slopes, even beginners and intermediate skiers are guaranteed utmost ski fun while taking in all the views from the summit – making it one of the best ski resorts in Europe for beginners. The ski pass to Les Houches goes for 44 € a day and 221 € for 6 days.

2. Livigno, Italy

Located in the Italian alps along the Swiss border, Livigno is often not regarded as a beginner ski resort. With a cross-country skiing on a track of around 30 km and a whopping 115 km of slopes, Livigno offers off-piste skiing for professionals who want to spread their wings while skiing in one of the cheapest ski destinations in Europe.

Another feature that makes Livigno one of the best value ski resorts in Europe is the incredible terrain park which has pro-sized jumps that can only be enjoyed by experts. But worry not if you’re a beginner, there are hundreds of ski trainers onsite to help you in case you need assistance. With all that, it’s even shocking that Livigno qualifies to be on the list of cheap ski destinations in Europe but with a 6-day ski pass of 247 € and 50 € daily – it is surely a great bargain.

Elevation of Livigno ski resort:   1,820 m – 3,000 m

A quick tip : If you choose to say in hotels or apartments associated with Livigno, you might qualify to get a free ski pass.

3. Borovets, Bulgaria

Located in the northern slopes of Bulgaria’s Rila Mountains, Borovets is a perfect ski destination with one of the cheapest ski pass in Europe. With the ski price so cheap, Borovets receives a certain number of party people who want to enjoy the beautiful sceneries of blue and red runs of the resort while still having fun.

Due to the top-notch quality of ski instructors, Borovets is perfect for both beginners and intermediate skiers but also professionals can enjoy the wide-open pistes in the upper half of the mountain which is above the tree line. Parents also have an opportunity to enjoy the 19 ski runs with a total of 58km ski pistes which all vary in difficulty because of the availability of a ski daycare for kids between 4 and 8 years.

On top of skiing, Borovets offers other winter sports like snowboarding, night-skiing, cross-country skiing, ski-doo, biathlon, and many others. And should any unfortunate accident happen, the mountain rescue service that operates 24 hours will be available for immediate help. The ski pass to Borovets goes for 30€ a day and 164€ for 6 days.

Elevation of Borovets ski resort:   1350 m – 2560 m

4. Val Cenis, France

If you’re looking for the best cheap ski resorts in Europe that don’t suffer from long lift queues, then this French Val Cenis ski and mountain resort situated in the Haute-Maurienne region of the French Alps and also close to the Italian border is a perfect place to go.

The resort lies on 5 villages stretching over 125km of velvety trails, meaning that skiers can roam far on various runs of blue and black extending from the village level to the top of the resort as well as enjoying beautiful sceneries of red runs.

What makes Val Cenis stand out more than the other ski resorts is the existence of blue pistes from the top to the bottom allowing beginners to enjoy the heights of the mountain they might not have been able to reach at other resorts. On top of that, Val Cenis has the largest run in Europe spanning a length of 10 km. Though Val Cenis may not be so known as other ski resorts, it is definitely worth visiting especially if you’re looking for the cheapest place to ski in Europe that doesn’t comprise quality and beautiful sceneries. To enjoy the lesser-known but picturesque resort of Val Cenis, you can pay 39€ for a day pass or 214€ for a 6-day pass.

Elevation of Val Cenis ski resort:   1300 m – 2730 m

5. Uludag, Turkey

If you’re looking for one of the cheap ski resorts in Europe, then Uludag in Bursa, Turkey is your ultimate ski destination. With Uluday being the highest mountain in Turkey and also an extinct volcano, it adds to the thrill of skiing through the amazing hills and forests.

Uludag has a total number of 16 lifts, and 28 km pistes with various difficulty levels which makes it a perfect ski resort for both beginners and professional skiers. Other than skiing, you can also do snowboarding and hiking at Uludag. The cost of skiing through the snowy pristine tracks of Uludag is 57 € for 5 days but you can also get a day ski pass for just 19€.

Elevation of Uludag ski resort:   1767 m – 2322 m

6. Andermatt, Switzerland

We all know Switzerland is home to some of the best ski resorts in the world but they also come with a huge price tag and the only opportunity to ski in a world-renown ski destination at a cheaper price is by opting for Andermatt which is probably the cheapest in the country.

Andermatt is located in the heart of the Swiss Alps with two main skiing areas, Natschen, and Gemmstock – with Gemmsock reaching the highest skiing elevation of 2,963m. The snowy beautiful ski grounds offer many terrains and 31 km of slopes perfect for many other activities for non-skiers like snowshoeing, sledging and many others.

And if you want to splurge a bit, don’t miss enjoying Chedi Andermatt’s spa – a hydrotherapy and hot outdoor pool perfect to relax from after a countless number of ski runs. Though Andermatt might be a bit pricey compared to either Uludag in Turkey or Borovets in Bulgaria, the 40€ daily ski pass is worth paying for.

Elevation of Andermatt:   1289 m – 2999 m

7. Jasna, Slovakia

With a total of 41 trails covering 49 km of piste, Jasna is considered to be that largest and the most famous ski area in Slovakia, perfect for both beginners and pros because of its various difficulty levels. The resort also has a 12km off-piste to roam around freely.

Jasna has a number of tree runs that add to the thrill of skiing on soft terrains plus night skiing for those who want to stay out in the night. Other activities for those who are less confident on the slopes include night sledging, snow bike, ski fox, and snow scoot. To enjoy this largest ski resort of Jasna in Slovakia, you can pay 35€ for a day ski pass or 224€ for a 6-day ski pass.

Elevation of Jasna:   943 m – 2024 m

8. Bansko, Bulgaria

Located at the foot of the Pirin Mountains in the southwest of the country, Bansko is one of the popular and the best ski resorts in Bulgaria.

With approximately 75km of pistes of different difficulty levels, as well as 9km of high adrenaline cross-country skiing, Bansko has the longest ski runs in Bulgaria perfect for beginners, intermediate skiers, and professionals who are looking for cheapest ski holidays in Europe.

Another advantage of the Bansko ski resort is that unlike other cheap ski resorts in Europe that wrap up their ski season in April, Bansko stays open till mid-May giving skiers an extra month to enjoy the snow while roaming around the smooth ski trails. To Ski through some of the longest ski runs in Bulgaria, you’ll need to pay for a daily ski pass of 33€ or a 6-day ski pass of 194€

Elevation of Bansko:   990 m – 2560 m

9. Hintertux Glacier, Austria

There is nowhere in Austria or in the world (except at Zermatt in Switzerland) you’ll find a 365-day operating ski resort than at Hintertux. And with over 60 km of slopes in various difficulties and free-ride runs at the Larmstange, amateurs and pro skiers are bound to have a great time all year round.

Though the resort is always open for skiing all year round, it gets even better in winter when Hintertux Glacier merges with other nearby ski mountains of Zillertal – Eggalm, Rastkogel, Finkenberg, Penken, and Ahorn to form one huge snow-sure Ski-& Glacier World Zillertal 3000. This means that skiers and other winter sports enthusiasts have over 202 kilometers of pistes while using just one single pass. – Now that’s a real bargain! To make your run through the 60 km slopes, it will cost you 55€ for a day pass or 266€ for a 6-day ski pass.

Elevation of Hintertux Glacier: 1500 m to 3250 m

10. Vemdalen, Sweden

Nestled among the deep forests and high mountain tops, Vemdalen is not only one of the largest ski destinations in Sweden but also one of the cheapest European ski resorts to visit for an ultimate fun ski getaway.

With a total number of 58 slopes and pistes which are 52km in length, Vemdalen consists of three different areas which are varied in difficulty making it perfect for both beginner skiers and professionals.

On top of skiing, a number of other fun activities are possible on the slopes, including night skiing for those who want to enjoy the stars while having fun, sledding, cross country skiing, and many others. You might think that it costs an arm to ski at Vemdalen but it is just 200€ for a 6-day ski pass.

If you were about to give up your dream of skiing because of how expensive it is (actually some people refer to skiing as a “rich people’s” winter sport), I hope this list of the cheapest ski resorts in Europe has given you options of the ski resorts you can go to for a fun-filled ski trip without leaving an extremely deep hole in your pockets.

Disclaimer: All the prices included in this article were accurate at the time of publishing it. For updated prices, please check the official websites of each individual ski resort.

*The adventurous feet is a proud member of the Amazon Associate and other affiliates which  means that if you purchase anything through this website, I might get a small commission without any additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting The adventurous feet

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Cheapest Ski Resorts in Europe

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Skiing is a pleasure, a pure pleasure. Sliding, discovering breathtaking landscapes,  feeling  fresh air on one’s face and the softness of the sun, ... Millions of ski lovers enjoy  the best ski resorts in Europe every year.

Many people think that skiing is for the rich. As a matter of fact Europe is home to a large number of luxurious ski resorts , but there are very good ski resorts offering ski passes and much more affordable accommodation too.

We have selected for you the ski resorts with the best slopes and infrastructure at prices that are much more affordable than average. Book your stay now at the best price guaranteed  in one of the best and cheapest ski resorts in Europe .

Bansko is located in Bulgaria, a country with growing tourism thanks to the quality of its beaches,  cheap hotels, beautiful landscapes, the kindness of its inhabitants but also the quality of its ski resorts.

Bansko is one of the most famous ski resorts in Bulgaria. With 50 km of slopes and 14 lifts it is very popular with travellers from all over the world who appreciate the excellent value for money of one of the cheapest ski resorts in Europe  from 400 euros / dollars a week! 

Select your accommodation at the best price guaranteed for an economic holiday in one of the best and cheapest ski resorts in Europe.

For an average price of 500 euros/dollars a week , you can enjoy a skiing holiday in the province of Sofia, Bulgaria, in Borovets, one of the cheapest ski resorts in Europe.

Come enjoy 60 kilometres of slopes and 13 lifts. The Borovets ski resort is awaitng you, your family and friends from December to early May. Snow and thrill are guaranteed! Treat yourself to an exceptional experience, like staying in a luxury hotel for the price of an entry-level hotel. We recommend, for example, the "Yastrebets Wellness & Spa" hotel which is at the foot of the ski slopes.

You will enjoy its gourmet restaurant, unforgettable evenings at the piano bar and great views of the ski slopes from the terrace of your room. Book your hotel at the best price guaranteed in Borovets . It is one of the best and cheapest ski resorts in Europe.

Vogel-Bohinj

More and more travellers discover Slovenia and its beautiful unspoiled nature each year.

It is a dream destination for winter sports. Vogel is a very beautiful ski resort located on the summits of Bohinj. The European Commission awarded this destination of excellence for its particular care for the environment.

Vogel offers 22 kilometres of slopes and a snowboard park. You can enjoy a very nice week holiday in this ski resort for an average price of 600 euros / dollars a week for two people during the high season.

For those who care about ecology but also their comfort, the  " Bohinj Eco Hotel " will welcome them in an oasis of peace with panoramic views of the Alps. Discover our selection of hotels at the best price guaranteed in Vogel-Bohinj and book your winter holiday in one of the cheapest ski resorts in Europe.

Serre-Chevalier-Briançon

A French ski resort offering stays for two people for  less than 800 euros / dollars a week is not usual.

This ski resort does not lack arguments to seduce you. In addition to the very attractive price of its accommodation, this ski resort offers nearly 250 kilometers of slopes for snowboarders and skiers in search of beautiful landscapes and unspoiled nature.

Book your stay now at the best price guaranteed in one of the best and cheapest ski resorts in Europe.

Jasna - Demänovská Dolina

The long tracks ( more than 40 kilometres long) and 27 lifts are awaiting you in Jasna . It is one of the cheapest ski resorts in Europe and the perfect place for skiers and snowboarders in search of very good infrastructure and attractive prices.

Two adults in high season can enjoy  beautiful hotels just a few metres away from the ski lifts for 1000 euros / dollars a week . The " Hotel Galeria Thermal Bešeňová "is one of them . Select your hotel at the best price guaranteed in Jasna, one of the best and cheapest ski resorts in Europe.

Les Houches

With more than 50 km of slopes and 15 lifts Les Houches (very near the Chamonix valley) is a perfect place for families and beginners; the accommodation  in Les Houches is much more affordable than in any nearby resorts. The average price of a hotel in this ski resort is 1100 euros / dollars a week for two people ! 

We recommend the " RockyPop Hotel ", with air-conditioned rooms, ski lessons, children's playground and restaurant. This hotel has it all! The ski resort benefits from a modern shuttle service to the slopes. Book your hotel at the best price guaranteed in one of the best and cheapest ski resorts in Europe.

Ski resorts in Italy often offer attractive prices for stays but also for ski passes. With its 115 kilometres of slopes and 30 lifts, this ski resort will welcome you from the end of November to the beginning of May for unforgettable winter holidays in one of the best and cheapest ski resorts in Europe.

The average price for a stay in Livigno is 1500 euros / dollars a week , for two people, in high season. Do not waste time and select your hotel today at the best price guaranteed in Livigno .

Poiana-Brasov

Located in Romania, the Poiana Brasov ski resort offers 13 km of slopes and 10 lifts and will welcome you from early December to early April for an average price of 600 euros a week in high season for two people.

Book your stay in Poiana-Brasov now ; it is one of the cheapest ski resorts in Europe.

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10 best cheap ski holidays for 2023/24: Deals to France, Austria, Switzerland, Slovenia and more

From resorts offering high-altitude slopes to family-friendly packages, here are the top ski deals to book now for next season, article bookmarked.

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It won’t be long before the ski season is upon us again, typically kicking off from late November and running until as late as May in some high-altitude European and North American resorts.

While the UK is home to more than its fair share of snow-loving skiers and snowboarders, it can be a pricey pursuit. Lift passes, equipment hire and lessons can quickly add up, on top of the regular holiday costs of accommodation, travel and food and drink.

However, whether you’re looking to plan a trip with friends, family or your other half, there are budget ski breaks available if you know where to look.

From varied terrain in Chamonix to family-friendly resorts in Austria and vibrant apres-ski in Andorra, we’ve compiled some of the best deals that combine flights and accommodation, ranging from under £400. They include hotels with half-board options, as well as cheaper self-catering accommodation too.

Keep reading for cheap ski holidays in Europe booking now for 2023/24.

Read more about skiing holidays :

• Best ski hotels across Europe 2023
• Sustainable skiing: a fun train trip to Andermatt
• Why Abruzzo in Italy should be your next family-friendly ski trip

Les Deux Alpes, France

Popular French ski resort Les Deux Alpes has the largest glacier slope in Europe. The high-altitude ski area offers 200km of varied pistes, while advanced skiers seeking some serious off-piste terrain can head to nearby cult freeriding resort La Grave. Skiworld is offering seven nights at Multi Residences 1650 apartments for four people from £384pp, self-catering, including return flights from Birmingham and transfers, departing 6 January 2024.

Serre Chevalier, France

Serre Chevalier in southeast France boasts 250km of runs, with 80 per cent of its north-facing, snowsure slopes set over 2,000m. The ski resort is near the Italian border at the crossroads of five preserved Alpine valleys. Inghams has seven-night packages to Aquisana Apartments in Villeneuve, which includes access to an indoor pool and is just a five-minute walk from nearby bars and restaurants. From £442pp, self catering, based on six sharing an apartment, including return flights from London Luton and transfers, departing 6 January 2024.

Chamonix, France

Popular resort Chamonix sits at the base of Mont Blanc, the highest peak in Europe at 4,809m. This mountain town in the French Alps has several ski areas, and its season runs from December to May. British Airways is offering a seven-night stay at RockyPop Hotel in Chamonix for £428.50pp, room only, including return flights from London Gatwick and transfers, departing 13 January.

Arinsal, Andorra

Arinsal is one of the three resorts in Andorra that make up the Vallnord ski area (along with Pal and Ordino-Arcalis), which offers 63km of slopes in total, best-suited to beginners and intermediates. The village has a vibrant apres-ski scene. Crystal Ski Holidays has seven nights at the four-star Hotel St Gothard in Arinsal from £587pp, half-board, including return flights from Manchester and transfers, departing 17 December. There’s also a buy one lift pass, get one free deal available.

El Tarter, Andorra

Andorra’s El Tarter ski resort gives access to the 210km Grandvalira area. While there are plenty of family-friendly and intermediate slopes, the resort is home to the El Tarter snowpark, where freestylers can practise their tricks, plus an FIS-approved downhill run, the Àliga. Neilson is offering a seven-night holiday to Chalet Motxo for £699pp, chalet board, including return flights departing London Gatwick on 7 January 2024, transfers and ski coaching.

Borovets, Bulgaria

Borovets is a ski resort in southwest Bulgaria, offering 52km of pistes. It’s set among the mountains in Rila National Park at an altitude of 1,390m, and is best-suited to beginners keen to bone up on technique (rather than adventurous intermediates). Loveholidays.com has a seven-night trip to budget hotel Samokov for £384pp, B&B, including return flights from Bristol Airport, departing 24 February.

Ischgl, Austria

The Austrian resort of Ischgl is known for its snowsure, high-altitude slopes and buzzing apres-ski. There’s 239km of slopes to explore via a comprehensive lift system, featuring 45 lifts and cable cars. Plus, it’s also linked across the border to the Swiss ski resort of Samnaun. Snowtrex is offering four nights at Apart Fliana, sleeping six, from £307pp, self catering. The price for 26 November departures includes lift passes but excludes flights and transfers; the nearest airport is Innsbruck.

Serfaus, Austria

Serfaus village is part of the Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis ski area in the Austrian Alps, which offers 124km of slopes. This family-friendly resort has 30km of cross-country ski trails, including eight routes at high altitude. Sunweb is offering a seven-night self-catering holiday at Vaya St. Zeno Lodge, sleeping four, from £676pp, including return flights from Luton, departing 10 December.

Kranjska Gora, Slovenia

Kranjska Gora in northwest Slovenia has a small ski area of 30km and 22 ski lifts, with slopes best suited to intermediates. Crystal Ski Holidays offers seven nights, half-board, at the Hotel Kompas from £823pp, including return flights from East Midlands airport and transfers, departing 23 December.

Crans-Montana, Switzerland

Swiss village Crans-Montana is home to a ski area overlooking the Rhone River valley. The area offers 140km of slopes suitable for all levels of skier and snowboarder. There are also cross-country trails and a snow park. We Ski is offering seven nights at Yuca B apartments, self-catering, for £756pp, including return flights from Birmingham and transfers, departing 20 January.

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Road is Calling

Skiing in Europe: 17 Best Ski Resorts From Budget to Luxury

Are you looking for some ideas on where to go skiing in Europe? I would love to share my favorite ones.

When I was working as a travel advisor, on many occasions I have been helping my clients to book ski package holidays around Europe. So, basically, this list below consists of those destinations where I personally went or/and where my clients spent their winter vacations and have been really happy.

A lot of these ski destinations will perfectly suit budget travelers. I know how costly ski holidays can be, that’s why my goal is not only to write about fancy ski resorts but also about ideas for cheap ski trips.

Also, all of these destinations offer both tracks for beginners and black slopes for ski experts as well as fantastic landscapes, cozy restaurants and entertainment for every taste.

Take a look at this detailed list with suggestions where to go and how much it will cost, starting with cheap ski holidays in Europe and finishing with unique ski resorts for luxury experiences.

Check the table of contents to navigate quicker:

Cheap Ski Holidays in Europe

Bukovel, ukraine.

I would love to start my list with skiing in Eastern Europe since this part of the continent has quite a few fantastic ski resorts that really don’t cost a lot.

Bukovel is considered the most popular and the most expensive ski resort in Ukraine . However, compared to ski resorts in Western Europe , it is actually rather cheap.

A single ski pass for a day costs 35 euros and is valid for all lifts. If you get there before 9 am, there is a discount and the price is 25 euros. For €18 you can ride for 3 hours. When purchasing a ski pass online in advance for a certain date, 40-50% discounts are available as well. On weekends and during the holidays, everything is more expensive by 30%.

Officially, the beginning of the season starts in December. However, the opening of the ski season can be earlier – at the end of November. It depends on weather conditions and steady temperature. The peak of the ski season in Bukovel starts with holidays at the end of December and lasts all the way into January. This is the time when prices for accommodation, ski passes, and food are the highest. The first part of February is still busy too but in the second half of the month, things get much calmer.

As with the opening, it’s not possible to know exactly when the ski season ends. It also depends on the weather. Last year, for example, my friends were still skiing at the beginning of April.

Bukovel’s skiing tracks have a total length of 50 km. 41 of them have medium difficulty, 8 designed for professionals, and the rest for beginners. The longest track is 2,132 km long.

There are 3 ski schools and rental centers where both athletes and amateurs can rent high-quality modern equipment and get a lesson from professionals. You can ski or snowboard in Bukovel even when the sun goes down. The tracks are well lit until late time.

With the number of fancy mountain chalets and cheap hotels , it is easy enough to find accommodation on any budget. But there are also some truly amazing cheaper ski resorts in Ukraine , worthy as much attention as Bukovel.

COST OF SKI TRAVEL IN BUKOVEL

Ski Pass: from 18 euros per day. Equipment Rental: from 5 euros per day for a ski set (skis, boots, poles, and helmet) for adults. Accommodation: from 20 euros per night. Food & Drink: 8-20 euros per day for one.

BEST PLACES TO STAY:

Eco hotel Krasna Polyana – a unique eco-friendly hotel with a somewhat quirky Ukrainian design with stylish rooms, panoramic pool, and a cool restaurant with authentic Hutsul cuisine. It is always fully booked. Make reservations in advance.

Amarena Spa – always clean and nice rooms, good service, and delicious breakfast. Within walking distance to the tracks of various difficulty.

Al’pin  – a budget hotel not far from the slopes. Prices start from 40€ per room for two.

The best way to get to Bukovel is through Ivano-Frankivsk city. If you are coming from Krakow to Lviv by train or bus, hop on another train (or rent a car ) in Lviv to Ivano-Frankivsk. From pretty much any other city you can also come by train. If in Kyiv , you can also fly. From Ivano-Frankivsk, there are regular marshrutka taxis and buses to Bukovel.

| RELATED POST ||

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BEST CITIES TO VISIT IN UKRAINE ON YOUR FIRST TRIP

Udulag, Turkey

Most likely, when thinking about skiing in Europe, Turkey doesn’t really come to mind. Right? In general, people mainly think about travel to Istanbul , Cappadocia , and the coast. Not so much about going to ski in the Turkish mountains . However, it is not only a wonderful beach holiday destination but a place where you can ski, visit ancient sights, soak in hot springs , and eat delicious food .

Many people don’t know that but in winter, this country offers skiing in the mountains with elevations ranging from 2 to 3 km. One of the most popular and famous ski resorts in the country is Uludag. It is suitable for a wide range of skiers and is rather cheap.

A lot of vacationers to Turkey know about the “all-inclusive” format of hotels along the coast. But even in winter, every major hotel in the area near Udulag mountains follows the same standard, has its own ski lifts and offers packages that include accommodation, meals, and skiing. Traditionally, high-quality service combined with relative cheapness allows Turkey to be one of the leading destinations for all-inclusive ski holidays.

Also, thanks to the gentle slopes and excellent ecology, Uludag is an ideal family ski resort in Europe.

Going to ski in Udulag, Turkey can be especially a great trip if combined with a visit to Istanbul and Bursa.

COST PER DAY FOR ONE

Ski Pass: from 23 euros per day. Equipment Rental: from 10 euros per day. Accommodation : from 60 euros per night but that’s all-inclusive, so all food and drink are covered. Some resorts even include a ski pass. But you need to take care of your own flight.

HOTELS FOR SKI PACKAGE HOLIDAYS IN UDULAG:

5* Bof Hotel – all-inclusive nonalcoholic family-friendly hotel. The food choices are ample, the rooms are spacious and always very warm, the grounds are gorgeous, and the staff is very helpful. It has its own sauna, pool, and a couple of hammams . Ski school and skiing areas are nearby but ski equipment is not included in the price.

4* Agaoglu My Resort Hotel – another all-inclusive hotel which includes alcohol options but has lower ratings. It has a beautiful spa, somewhat limited food options, clean rooms, and friendly staff. Check the reviews to get a better idea.

Gudauri, Georgia

Of all the ski resorts in Georgia , the leader of the winter recreation is Gudauri. The unique natural conditions, the absence of avalanche danger, and the great popularity among investors attract more and more tourists each year.

The main features of Gudauri are its excellent conditions for freeriding as well as a particularly long skiing season which lasts 7 months here.

The elevation difference is 1,000 meters, the average length of the ski tracks is 2-3 km, and the longest descent is 7 km.

This resort town may appeal not only to lovers of skiing from the slope but also to fans of cross country skiing and walking in snowy picturesque valleys. The creators of the ski complex tried to make it not inferior to European counterparts in terms of comfort and safety, so you can go there knowing that it is a wonderful resort for beginners and families with children.

Gudauri is located on the Military Road from Tbilisi to Kazbegi . There is so much to do in the area and along this road. Check my guide with all the amazing sights and how much you can do while in the area.

THE COST OF SKI HOLIDAY IN GUDAURI

Ski Pass: from 17 euros per day. Equipment Rental: from 11 euros per day. Accommodation: from 35 euros per night per person. Food & Drink: 8-20 euros per day for one.

BEST PLACES WHERE TO STAY:

New Gudauri Loft – a cute studio for two people (or even four) who are on a budget.

Soncho Gudauri  – Very simple budget hotel with clean spacious rooms but limited toiletries and breakfast options. The lift to the tracks is behind the hotel.

Tsar Bani – one of my favorite boutique hotels in Gudauri. It’s a bit more pricey but worth every penny. The hotel is small but very clean and has an interesting design. It has only 6 or 8 rooms, each of them comes with its own theme and balcony with fantastic views. Breakfast is included and homemade, includes oatmeal, omelette, fruits, coffee, and tea.

Jasna, Demanovska Dolina, Slovakia

Ski resort Jasna in Demanovska Dolina next to the famous town of Liptovsky Mikulas is named as one of the best ski resorts in all of Eastern Europe. There are trails for children and separate paths for riding on snowmobiles. The season in Jasna lasts from December to the end of March.

The resort has 13 lifts with a total capacity of 11,800 people per hour, and the number of ski runs totals 14, of which 3 are of high complexity, 8 are of medium difficulty and 3 are easy.

The main hotels are located 20-300 meters from the ski lifts, while cottages and pensions are located below the ski area. Those hotels that are located farther, have shuttles run from them to the ski lifts.

The cost of a one-day ticket for adults is 28 euros, for children (6-18 years) – 20 euros; for 6 days for adults – 138 euros, for children (6-18 years) – 97 euros. The nearest airport is Poprad (60 km). If you are looking for a cheap  winter city break in the EU  where you can ski, Slovakia is the best place for that.

THE COST OF SKI HOLIDAY IN JASNA

Ski Pass: from 28 euros per day. Equipment Rental: from 7€ per day for a snowboard. Accommodation: from 35 euros per night for the private room for two in the guest house but it’s not in the valley, 10 min drive from Jasna. Food & Drink:  20-25 euros per day for one.

RECOMMENDED SKI RESORTS:

4* Hotel Grand Jasna – One of the best hotel chains in Slovakia with a huge spa, amazing breakfasts, and very upscale rooms. Prices for their rooms start from 90€ per night (if booking in advance through the aggregate) but taking into consideration that this is a luxury hotel, prices are not that high compared to the hotel of the same level in Austria, France or Switzerland.

4* Hotel Partizan – eco-friendly hotel in the middle of the forest with beautiful views from the room and wonderful spa.

2* Hotel SKI & Al Pacin BAR – in the heart of Domanovska Dolina with a few tracks starting behind the hotel.

Spindleruv Mlyn, Czech Republic

Another wonderful budget destination for skiing in Eastern Europe is the Czech resort Spindleruv Mlyn. In fact, this is a truly amazing place to visit in the Czech Republic during any time of the year, not just winter.

It is the country’s most famous international mountain recreation center. The mountains are not high with the largest Snezka mountain reaching 1,602 m above sea level .

Spindleruv Mlyn is located 130 km north from Prague in the Krkonossky National Park. And by the way, with this location, you can combine three activities in one trip: see fabulous Prague in winter , stay in one of the magical Czech castle hotels , and go skiing.

In winter, this picturesque mountainous region becomes a real paradise for lovers of alpine skiing, cross-country, and off-piste skiing . The ski season lasts from December to April.

The resort consists of several villages (ski centers) such as Svaty Petr, Bedrichov, Labska , and Predni Labska . Each of them has slopes for professionals and beginners and besides skiing, you can also go snowboarding. There is also a ski school for adults and children with English-speaking instructors.

Lift subscription for the day during the high season costs 28 euros for an adult and 18 euros for children. During the low season – 20 and 13 euros respectively. A six days subscription for adults is 117 euros (in low season 86) and for children – 76 euros (55 in low season). The nearest international airport is Prague.

COST OF SKI HOLIDAY PER DAY FOR ONE PERSON IN SPINDLERUV MLYN

Ski Pass: from 28 euros per day for adults. Equipment Rental: from 20 euros per day. Accommodation: from 20 euros per night. Food & Drink:  12-25 euros per day.

WHERE TO STAY IN SPINDLERUV MLYN:

4* Hotel Savoy  – a very nice upscale hotel where rooms start for less than 90€ per night for two.

3* Hotel Olympie – rooms with views and kitchenettes, close to the ski bus stop and main ski areas. Great price for two people in the center of Svaty Petr village.

1-bedroom flat – a budget 1-bedroom apartment for up to 3 people.

Vogel, Slovenia

Vogel ski resort is located in the Julian Alps at an altitude of 570 meters above sea level on the banks of the picturesque Bohinj Lake. There, you can go skiing, sleighing and snowboarding. Also, there is a night skiing service if you are more for that.

The resort also has a ski school and a cross-country ski school. This center is best suited for families with children and for skiers of different skill levels. Due to its unique geographical location, snow cover here stays on the ground from December until early May.

There is also another resort not far from Vogel – Kobla . Being only 20 km away from Vogel it is mainly a beginner to an intermediate level resort with pistes on wooded slopes.

Lift subscriptions cost 26 euros for one day for adults and 17 euros for children (under 14 years). 6 days pass costs 140 euros for adults and 91 euros for children. Bohinj is located 80 km from Ljubljana. If renting a car is not an option (which is always expensive there), it takes just an hour to get by bus. And there should be free buses between Vogel – Kobla ski resorts.

THE COST OF SKI HOLIDAY IN VOGEL

Ski Pass: from 26 euros per day. Accommodation: from 50 euros per night for a private apartment for two. Food & Drink:  20-25 euros per day for one.

4* BOHINJ ECO Hotel

Apartment Marketz  – a very nice cozy budget apartment for two.

Pal and Arinsal, Andorra

An excellent snow cover and well-developed infrastructure are distinctive features of these neighboring resorts of Andorra. Arinsal and Pal ski resorts have a combined modern ski lift with a capacity of 500 people per hour.

Pal resort will appeal to beginners  or those who have been skiing for a while but are not very confident.  Arinsal is designed more for the advanced level . In both Arinsal and Pal you will be pleased with a combination of magnificent views and mountain nature, excellent ski slopes and many restaurants, cafes and bars. Skiing schools also operate in each resort village.

A ski pass costs 39 euros for adults, 33.5 euros for young people (12-17 years old), and 28.5 euros for children (6-11 years old). For five days, prices will be 170 euros for adults, 146 for youth, and 122.5 euros for children. There are discounts for older people. Children under six years old ride for free.

Resorts are located 9 km from the capital Andorra la Vella which is known as a duty-free retail hub and 7 km from Escaldes, the commercial hub of Andorra. The nearest international airport in Barcelona is 32 km away.

Besides skiing, there is a number of historical attractions in Andorra, including Romanesque churches and chapels, a number of beautiful bridges, and buildings in a medieval style. In the eastern district of the capital, there are two amazing thermal spas Inuu and Caldea. You can swim under the glass dome in the most diverse (with a jacuzzi, cascades, with and without flow, etc.) pools with healing thermal waters.

Come from southern France or from Barcelona to Andorra by car and enjoy one of the best ski resorts in Europe at reasonable prices!

ANDORRA SKI HOLIDAYS COST

Ski Pass: from 39 euros per day. Equipment Rental: from 18€ per day for boots, skis, and helmet. Accommodation: from 40 euros per night. Food & Drink:  18-25 euros per day for one.

BEST SKI HOTELS IN ANDORRA:

3* Xalet Verdu – a budget option for those who want to stay in the mountain village Arinsal.

4* Hotel Paloma – hotel with stylish decor, impressive mountain views in a very quiet setting. It is located close to Caldea Thermal Spa, Andorra la Vella, and at the same time to ski tracks.

Formigal, Spain

Formigal is one of the most famous resorts in the Spanish Pyrenees. It is located near the town of Sallent de Gallego, 5 km from the French border. This is the largest and most modern ski resort in Spain . 137 km of tracks are laid here with the maximum height of the tracks of 2250 m above sea level. The ski season lasts from December to March.

Formigal is positioned as a family ski resort. It has many playgrounds for kids, kids areas, and more than 200 instructors who are ready to teach little ones how to ski. Wide slopes are suitable for both beginner and intermediate skiers.

A daily subscription for ski lifts costs 42 euros. Six days of skiing – 220 euros.

The nearest airports to the ski resort of Formigal are in Zaragoza – 170 km, French Toulouse – 275 km, and Barcelona – 375 km. It takes an hour and a half to get by bus from Zaragoza to Formigal.

If you are thinking to combine your skiing trip to Formigal with some time in Barcelona, read my extensive travel guide on what NOT to do in Barcelona as a tourist  and what to do on Valencia to Barcelona drive . Also, here are my guides on winter travel in Spain and winter travel in Madrid , if having the intention to travel around the country. If planning to rent a car in Spain , this guide will definitely come in handy too.

FORMIGAL SKI HOLIDAYS COST

Ski Pass: from 42 euros per day. Equipment Rental: from 38€ per day, including boots and helmet. Accommodation: from 50 euros per night for a stay in the hotel. Food & Drink:  20-25 euros per day for one.

BEST HOTELS IN FORMIGAL:

3* Hotel Villa De Sallent

4* HG Alto Aragon – great price for a beautiful elegant hotel with clean rooms, a good atmosphere, and service. The hotel is overlooking the sky, mountains, and valley and has a free shuttle to the slopes.

Bansko, Bulgaria

Bulgaria is one of the cheapest places to visit in Europe , so you can expect that its ski resort will be cheap too.

Bansko is a relatively new ski resort town in Europe, but surprisingly it attracts skiers even from outside Europe. Bansko is located in southwestern Bulgaria at the foot of one of the most beautiful mountain ranges – the Pirin Mountains. In addition to offering cheap skiing in Europe, it also has a beautiful old town with many attractions.

If your goal is to ski, plan your visit to Bulgaria  from mid-December to mid-April. At this time, there is a stable snow cover two meters thick. Bansko will delight you with excellent service and modern infrastructure. The resort offers 6 ski tracks with a total length of 14 kilometers . They are located at an altitude of 2500 meters above sea level.

In Bansko, you can stay in cozy cheap hotels or expensive apartments, the choice is yours. A luxury place, by Western Europe standards, won’t cost a lot.

A ski pass for a week costs 150 euros for adults and 85 euros for children under 12 years. The entire ski package for the same period ( which includes equipment rental, a ski pass, and ski school subscription ) costs 250 euros for adults and 148 euros for children.

Bansko is 160 km from Sofia. From Sofia Airport, take a taxi for 10-12 leva (about 2 euros) to the bus station, and from there for the same amount take a bus to Bansko. Travel time is three hours.

BANSKO SKI HOLIDAYS COST

Ski Pass: from 30 euros per day. Equipment Rental: from 15€ per day. Accommodation: from 25 euros per night for the hotel room. Food & Drink:  10-20 euros per day for one.

BEST HOTELS IN BANSKO:

5* Amira Boutique Hotel  – simply the best hotel in Bansko. It offers everything that you may need for less than 100€ per room for the entire family.

3* Bizev Hotel  – for such a price this is the best you can get. Exceptionally clean rooms, the staff is friendly, breakfast is delicious and hotel is confidently located not far from the Bansko center. Check the reviews. Guests are really happy, especially taking into consideration how affordable this stay can be.

Poiana Brasov, Romania

Poiana Brasov is considered the elite and most beautiful ski resort in Romania. It is located at an altitude of 1030 meters, surrounded by coniferous forests , near the ancient city of Brasov . There are 12 tracks with a total length of 14 km , two ski jumps and constantly working chairlifts. The resort is famous for its eco-friendly hotels, clean air, and wonderful landscapes.

For outdoor activities, visitors can find artificial skating rinks, a horse riding center, sports grounds, hotels with swimming pools, and saunas. In addition, the resort village has many restaurants and cafes where you can try the national Romanian cuisine and watch performances by local musicians and dancers.

2* hotels in Poiana Brasov start from 50 euros per room for two people. Accommodation in 3*-4* class hotels costs between 70-100 euros per night. A stay in a full-service hotel on average goes for 300 euros per night. A 4-day ski pass costs 85 euros for adults and 39 euros for children. It is much cheaper than a day pass that costs 30 euros.

POIANA BRASOV SKIING PRICES

Ski Pass: from 30 euros per day. Equipment Rental: from 12€ per day for the standard equipment for adults which includes skis, boots, and ski sticks. Accommodation: from 80 euros per night for the 4* hotel room for two people. Food & Drink:  20-30 euros per day for one.

WHERE TO STAY IN POIANA BRASOV:

Teleferic Grand Hotel  – a panoramic 4* Mountain View hotel where you can experience luxury on a budget. Everything just feels right there. All guests get free access to the spa center which includes an indoor swimming pool, an outdoor hot tub, and three types of saunas.

Ana Hotels Sport – another 4* hotel with cozy and pleasant rooms, spa center, restaurant, and great location.

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Zakopane, poland.

The winter capital of Poland the town of Zakopane is sheltered in a valley between the mountain peaks in the very south of the country with only 110 km away from Krakow. A lot of people love Zakopane for a moderately warm and snowy winter, thermal springs, cozy Polish huts, and national cuisine with huge portions .

In the vicinity of Zakopane, there are 10 ski resorts with 90 ski lifts for both amateurs and professionals. Some are located within the town, and some are outside. Fans of relaxed skiing, sledding, snowshoeing, and at the same time lovers of extreme skiing can find Zakopane as a perfect ski vacation spot.

Among all resorts, the most famous are Nosal, Kasprowy Wierch, Butorowy Wierch, Polana Szymoszkowa, and Gubalowka.

The nearest airport to the resort town is in Krakow. You can get from there to Zakopane center by train. It takes a little more than three hours and a ticket for one adult costs 23.60 PLN (about 5.5 euros).

The most convenient way to get from Krakow to Zakopane is by bus or by rented car. Trains run between cities regularly but this option is the longest of all.

It is easy to find cheap accommodation in Zakopane. There are very budget options that start from 40€ for an apartment , villas for 50€ and then there are hotels from 70€ per night .

Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany

Garmisch-Partenkirchen is a classic mountain resort in Germany with rich traditions of alpine places. It is located in the northern part of the Eastern Alps at an altitude of 940 m above sea level, not far from the highest peak in the country – Zugspitze (2,966 m). Two skiing areas of the resort are located on the Zugspitze and Garmisch-Classic plateaus and make a total of 62 km of pistes.

The resort has about 30 upscale hotels, 30 mini-hotels, 8 B&B hotels, and over 70 guest houses . The best hotels are the Grand Hotel Sonnenbichl and Dorint Sporthotel . But much more interesting is to stay in one of the traditional Bavarian hotels such as Hotel Reinaldo Partenkirchner Hof or  Biohotel Garmischer Hof .

A 2-day ski pass costs 79 euros for adults and 43.5 euros for children (6 to 13 years old). Six days of skiing cost 212 euros for adults and 117 for children.

The resort town is located an hour and a half drive from Munich International Airport and a 50-minute drive from Innsbruck Airport. You can get there by car from Munich via the A-95 motorway or from the south from Innsbruck towards Mittenwald.

Livigno, Italy

Livigno is Italy’s largest ski resort. It is located 35 km from the city of Bormio, near the Swiss border. There are very good weather conditions, the snow cover reaches 2.5 m. At the same time, there are almost no winds, which gives a significant advantage to this resort compared to others. The season lasts from November to April. Livigno today is one of the best ski resorts in Italy.

A subscription for lifts for adults for a day costs 41 euros, for children – 34 euros. Six days of skiing cost 198.5 euros for adults and 138.5 euros for children.

Livigno is 235 km from Milan. From Milan Airport to Livigno you can take a bus for 30 euros. It takes 4.5 hours to get there. On the way, you can enjoy wonderful views from the window.

Schladming, Austria

Austrian Schladming is located at an altitude of about 750 m above sea level and 90 km from Salzburg. The resort is rightfully among the ten best world resorts and still, it is not overly expensive . I add it to the list of mid-range ski resorts.

Schladming features well-equipped trails and predictable terrain . It features 86 ski lifts and a free shuttle to anywhere in the region . The best time to visit the ski resort is from December to April.

A daily subscription for ski lifts for adults costs 46 euros, for children under 15 years old – 23.50 euros, for teenagers under 19 years old – 36 euros. A six-day subscription costs 227 euros, 113.50, and 117 euros, respectively.

The closest airports are Salzburg (90 km), Linz (185 km), Graz (190 km), Munich (290 km), Vienna (300 km), and Innsbruck (320 km). The resort can be reached by bus from Salzburg in just 45 minutes. The nearest train station is Schladming.

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Laax, switzerland.

The Swiss Laax is notable for being located on a very picturesque, sheltered from the winds mountain terrace in the Swiss Alps . This resort is part of the famous Alpine Arena, which also includes the neighboring ski resort villages of Flims and Falera.

The elevation difference on the Laax slopes is about 700 m. 29 lifts operate here and there are 60 equipped tracks. The longest of the tracks stretches for 14 km . 28% are green trails designed for beginners only who are learning the basics. 32% of tracks are blue and of medium difficulty. 22% are red or difficult tracks. And 18% of the slopes are designed for fans of real extreme sports on black tracks.

Freeriders also have access to 40 km of slopes. In addition, at altitudes from 750 to 1550 m above sea level, there are 56 km of slopes for cross-country skiing and 6 km of them can be used in the dark , as they are lit. Laax also has two illuminated toboggan runs and excellent conditions for snowboarding.

Children and adults can learn how to ski at two ski schools and a snowboard school. An interesting local history museum and a megalith park are open here. And in neighboring Flims, tourists can visit the small church of St. Martin, which was built in the 9th century.

Costs And How to Get There

Of the three ski areas, Laax has the status of the best prices in terms of housing and services. Holders of the hotel’s guest card or ski pass enjoy free access anywhere in all three villages.

A ski pass per day costs 70€ for adults, 47€ for teens from 13 to 17 years old, and 23€ for children from 6 to 12 years old. A six-day ski pass costs 392€ for adults.

Prices for a very basic room start at 70 euros.

Zurich and the “Alpine Valley” are located 150 km from each other. If not renting a car, at first you need to reach the town of Chur. Then from Chur to Laax, it takes 30 minutes to go by bus. In high season, express buses cost 68 euros to go from Laax to Zurich Airport and vice versa.

Are, Sweden

The Swedish Åre is considered the largest and most developed ski resort in the country . It consists of four villages connected by bus routes and has five ski areas. One of the best ski lifts in Northern Europe is here. And 100 km of diverse tracks with a lot of good snow on the slopes guarantee a great ski season from early November to mid-May.

Many people love this resort for how conveniently everything is located. No matter where you stay, it will be easy and quick to get to all the mountain slopes. The lifts are built that way that you can ride all day long without interruption . And besides that, both skiers and snowboarders can use all slopes.

In addition to skiing, guests of the resort village can go horse riding, dog or reindeer sledding, ice skating, and renting a snowmobile . Also, this resort offers winter fishing and is a popular destination for climbing.

Ski schools are excellent and the service is outstanding. A ski pass for an adult (16 to 64 years old) per day costs 44 euros, for adolescents (8-15 years) and older people (65+) 34 euros. Children under 7 years old are free of charge but only if they wear a helmet. Five days of skiing will cost adults 195 euros while teenagers and older people 153 euros.

THE BEST WAY TO GET TO ARE is to fly to Ostersund and from there go by train in one hour or by bus in 2 hours (prices start from 12 euros). Another option is to fly to Stockholm, from where it takes about 9 hours to get to Are by train and prices start from 55 euros.

Ruka, Finland

For those who would like to ski in Finland but are not afraid to freeze should look into Ruka. It is suitable for those who feel comfortable in very, very cold weather. The fabulous Lapland starts from here, and the Arctic Circle is relatively a short drive away.

If almost everywhere in Finland all resorts are mainly hills, then you can be sure you’ll see real mountains rise in Ruka . The ski season here is the longest in Finland (and probably in Europe) and lasts from October to May , and the last slope is closed by mid-June.

The advantages of Ruka are considered perfect tracks as well as convenient and fast lifts . Another advantage is a very large flat ski track which goes for about 200 km and has 21 km with lighting.

In total, this ski resort has 21 lifts, 34 slopes and most of them are suitable for skiing in the dark . The longest descent is 1.3 km and there is also a magnificent freestyle center with a mogul track.

In addition, Ruka is very popular with snowboarders as the local park is considered the best in Europe and meets FIS SuperPipe standards. It has 3 halfpipes, jumps, rails, and a great track for border-cross skiing. For cross-country ski lovers, overall, there is almost 500 km of ski slopes with 40 km of them being illuminated.

A daily pass for adults costs 42.5 euros, for adolescents (12-17 years old) 36 euros, children (6-11 years old) 27 euros. A seven-day ski pass for adults costs 207 euros, for teens – 175 euros, for children – 132.5 euros. Children under 6 years old accompanied by adults are allowed on all lifts for free.

If buying ski passes online, they will be cheaper. Also, when buying family packages, expect to get a 30% discount.

Travelers who have a ski pass, during the working hours of the ski lifts can travel by bus between Ruka and Kuusamo for free.

The nearest airport to Ruka is in Kuusamo. Therefore, you can catch a shuttle from there which takes less than 30 minutes to get to the resort town. Throughout the winter season, flights from Helsinki fly daily to Kuusamo airport.

This is my list of destinations for skiing in Europe. If you would like me to help to book your ski trip, send me a  message through this form .

If you have any questions or comments to add, please feel free to do so!

Anya is originally from Ukraine but in heart she is a citizen of the world. She is working online and that’s why has an opportunity to travel a lot and live in different countries. At present time, she is based in Spain while waiting for the war in Ukraine to be over to be able to return home. On this blog, her main goal is to inspire others to travel to under-the-radar places and discover the world while working remotely.

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I’ve got a ski trip planned for Slovenia over new year and I’m super excited for it! I’ll definitely be hitting up Vogel – it looks like such a scenic ski resort 🙂

Lucky you! 😉 You’ll love it, Slovenia is so beautiful in winter and Vogel is the place to be!

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SkiEurope is a leading winter tour operator from North America to Europe. We provide winter vacation arrangements in over 60 resorts in seven European countries: Andorra, Austria, Bulgaria, France, Germany, Italy, and Switzerland, and Summer Skiing in South America.

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The Best Budget Ski Resorts Across Europe

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Looking to hit the slopes this winter? Check out this handy guide to finding Europe’s most affordable resorts.

It’s almost time to dust off the salopettes, find the goggles hidden underneath the bed and open the ski wax for the first polish of a brand spanking new season. If you’re looking for inspiration for where to go on a budget then look no further. The following guide is based on a six-day lift pass, equipment hire, ski school and lunch on the slopes.

1. Kranjska Gora, Slovenia – £325.47

Top spot goes to Kranjska Gora right on the border between Slovenia, Italy and Austria. Expect great skiing at a fraction of the cost of its more fashionable neighbours.

2. Bardonecchia, Italy – £347.12

Considering its pedigree ( Bardonecchia hosted the snowboarding events in the 2006 Winter Olympics) it’s amazing the resort has remained affordable. This is probably owed to the high number of great ski resorts across Italy.

3. Bansko, Bulgaria – £351.54

This charming resort is popular with Russians and Greeks looking to hit the slopes come winter. Bansko is also home to some exceptionally long and challenging runs which make it perfect for both beginners and experienced skiers.

4. Sestriere, Italy – £399.85

Sestriere is a popular resort with young Italians looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Turin and Milan. Aprés is best served with pizza – this is Italy, after all!

5. Morzine, France – £410.47

One of only two French resorts to make the list, Morzine has it all – great snow, alpine runs and good connections to other resorts so you never run out of options.

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6. Ellmau, Austria – £431.97

Austria boasts some of the best ski slopes in the world. You probably won’t find too many opportunities at Ellmau because of the low altitude, but it’s well connected by local bus routes to other resorts in the SkiWelt area.

7. Cervinia, Italy – £442.93

There’s nothing quite like skiing past the Matterhorn mountain. Cervinia’s skiing is top rate with a good mix of challenging and laid back runs, and large enough to mean you never have to hit the same slope twice in one day.

8. Soldeu, Andorra – £448.86

Soldeu goes pretty high (2,580m) for the Pyrenees, which can start to suffer from slush earlier than the Alps. Since 2007, the resort has hosted regular world cup races so you know the skiing will be good!

9. Ruka, Finland – £453.08

Most people wouldn’t think of Finland when it comes to planning a ski holiday, but Ruka is popular with fellow Nordic nations, as it boasts the best terrain for cross-country skiing (a leg-crusher of a pastime) and snowmobile tours.

10. La Thuile, Italy – £454.19

Only last year La Thuile hosted three World Cup competitions (two downhill and one super G). The former mining town is now one of the best resorts in Italy with loads of runs that vary from short and simple to long and intense.

11. Les Deux Alpes – £461.88

France’s second oldest ski resort is still great value for money. You’ll find year-round skiing conditions on Europe’s largest skiable glacier and some impressive vertical drops that will set hearts racing.

The information used in this article comes via Post Office and Crystal Ski Holidays.

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Europe Resort Vacation Packages | Ski The Alps

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Experience a place where skiing is deep-rooted in the culture and way of life. Skiing has existed in Europe's Alps for several hundred years. First as a means of transportation through the rugged mountains and more recently, as a fun way to recreate during the winter months.

Throughout France , Switzerland , Italy , Austria and Germany ski vacationers can experience dozens of perfectly preserved villages and hamlets boasting original chalets, hotels, inns, and restaurants. A Europe ski vacation is also great for the skier or snowboarder who enjoys their leisure time. On-mountain restaurants offer sunny patios, mind-boggling views, and world-class wine lists, sometimes making the Alpine dining scene and après-ski experience a more popular activity than the top-notch skiing.

If you don’t ski or snowboard or you like to include other things on your Europe ski vacation, Ski.com has the inside scoop on plenty of other activities, including snow tubing, zip-lining, fat biking, ice skating, shopping, paragliding, spa treatments, and of course, dining.

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Ski.com's Mountain Travel Experts boast deep backgrounds in European Travel. We know the best resorts for beginners and intermediates, along with which mountains are family-friendly and perfect for skiers on a budget. Additionally, we've vetted the accommodations firsthand and know exactly which ski chalets have the best beds, ski-in ski-out access, and modern amenities. Whether you’re worried about the details concerning international travel to the mountains, or you just want someone to do it all for you, a Ski.com Mountain Travel Expert will take all the stress out of the planning process. We know which ski resorts are near major airports across Europe, how to get there, and what spa to use upon arrival.

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Zermatt, Switzerland

Idyllic village, views of the Matterhorn

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Off-piste adventures, base of Mont Blanc

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While the pros may rely on sponsors, for most of us mere mortals, skiing can be a pretty expensive pursuit. But your favorite winter sport needn’t burn such a daunting hole in your pocket. There’s some cool and fairly cheap skiing to be had in alternative ski destinations across Eastern Europe, where you’ll save on everything from a ski pass and hire to hotels , food and drink without giving up great snow.

With the help of hefty investment in recent years, these resorts are beginning to seriously compete with the swanky slopes of the popular French, Swiss and Austrian Alps. Sure, they’re smaller than (and perhaps not quite as sophisticated as) their ritzy neighbors but the snow is just as white and fluffy … only far less crowded and at half (or maybe even a third) the cost!

Here’s our list of the 7 best Eastern European resorts for a low-cost skiing holiday.

Spindleruv Mlyn – Czech Republic

Snug in the powdered peaks of Krknose (literally The Giant Mountains), the highest mountain range in the Czech Republic, sits tranquil Spindleruv Mlyn , one of four main resorts in the area. From kid-friendly runs to a snow-stacked terrain park and miles of unspoilt cross-country trails, Spindleruv Mlyn is a serious bargain – and the gorgeous National Park surrounding it is a UNESCO classified biosphere reserve.

Head down to the charming snow-capped village, when your ski day is spent, where the smell of simmering stews and piping hot pancakes seems to linger permanently in the air. For a new and eccentric experience, the local Novosad Brewery offers an unusual spa treatment – soaking in fizzy golden beer baths!

Jahorina – Bosnia

Home to the women’s skiing events of the 1984 Winter Olympics, Jahorina and its snowy peaked neighbors attract downhillers in search of a taste of international snowsport standards.

Standing proud among the tallest Dinaric Alps of Bosnia, Jahorina’s tidy wide slopes are crisp and inviting – towering over the equally charming little town of traditional chalets and foothills coated in fir trees.

Only a stone’s-throw from Sarajevo and a favorite among the après-party inclined, this Balkan budget destination makes for a great ski and city break combo, not to mention its glowing reputation among nature seekers, who flock here faithfully for the hiking, sledding and fresh alpine air.

Bialka Tatrzanska – Poland

Zakopane is Poland’s biggest and most recognized resort but if you want to ski on the cheap and avoid the clumsy crowds, head to the tiny picture-perfect village of Bialka Tatrzanska .

The resort’s wide, sweeping, tree-lined slopes are very family-friendly and best for beginners and intermediates to sharpen their skills. A taste of the local smoky sheep’s cheese and cranberries with a warm cup of rum-spiked tea works great as a midday energy boost.

The nights are pretty quiet in this rural refuge but a dip in the steaming outdoor pools of the local geothermal baths is a relaxing – and pretty! – end to the day.

Jasna – Slovakia

One of Slovakia’s best kept secrets, nestled in the Demanovska Dolina Valley, Jasna is a real-life winter wonderland of snow flurry and pine trees, where pistes cut through wilderness and backcountry skiing through national parkland.

While Chopok peak lures its fair share of adventure-seekers with its 3,280 foot vertical drop and multiple freeride areas, newcomers can hit the excellent ski schools or wander off-piste with an expert Slovak guide.

The après-ski scene is on the quiet side and revolves around local brews and hot perogi dumplings but you can always brave the chilly evening air and slice up the last of Chopok’s powder on an illuminated night run.

Bansko – Bulgaria

Recently modernized Bansko is becoming a top destination for snow lovers seeking both good powder conditions and nights that offer a little (a lot!) more than hot cocoa by the fire.

Although extremely beginner-friendly, the resort is not all bunny-slopes – the reds can definitely hold their own and riding full speed through the skyscraper spruces of the glades is as thrilling as it is visually spectacular.

Bulgaria’s biggest resort can sometimes get a little congested on the lifts, but that’s nothing a cozy late breakfast can’t solve. And you’ll want to sleep in … you won’t find any scary black pistes up top but Bansko’s legendary bar scene is as much of an adrenaline rush as you’ll need.

Kranjska Gora – Slovenia

Sitting pretty in the majestic Julian Alps, bordered by Austria and Italy and blanketed in hefty pine forest, is quiet and family-friendly Kranjska Gora .

What this Slovenian resort lacks in challenging terrain, it more than makes up for in gentle, well-groomed runs, compact nursery slopes and a stunning landscape to go with the copious amounts of cross-country trails. It does lay claim, however, to a World Cup black run that has been testing slalom stars from around the world for more than 50 years.

Despite its pedigree, Kranjska Gora is free of prestige and the prices that go with it – you don’t need to be a celebrity to get a guesthouse on the piste.

Popova Sapka – Macedonia

Standing higher than most Eastern European resorts, you’ll find Macedonia’s Popova Sapka , nestled in the cushy rounded peaks of the Dinaric Mountains.

The town, with its veil of white and empty streets, is in a state of perpetual slumber, perfect for those in search of a secret hideaway. The lifts may be a little old school but the smooth, unmarked slopes are definitely worth it – especially since you’ll have them all to yourself.

If you’re determined to venture even further into the virgin white, you’re in luck, Popova Sapka is home to Europe’s first and only Snowcat operation! A converted snow groomer takes you into the immaculate back-country where you can freeride to your heart’s content.

Not sure which ski resort would suit you best? Try our Trip Finder feature – over 70 ski destinations have just been added!

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P eople often ask “which is the best  ski resort ?” – but there are as many answers to that question as there are types of skier and snowboarder.

Beginners will want to be on different pistes to speed demons, while young families might not like the après haunts favoured by party animals.

There are also trips to the slopes by train for the more sustainably minded, great value and catered chalet breaks (depending on your budget) and winter wonderlands for walking if your partner doesn’t fancy skiing.

With so many snow sports destinations to choose from, here’s a selection of resorts chosen with certain types of skiers in mind, to help your 2024/2025 winter holiday go as smoothly as a groomed green run.

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The Three Valleys, France

Best: by train.

You can reach many ski resorts in Austria and Switzerland by train (see snowcarbon.co.uk ) but none is as convenient as the direct service from St Pancras to the French Alps .

Eurostar cancelled its popular service in 2020, but tour operator Travelski Express stepped in to offer direct trains as part of a package deal that includes ski passes and accommodation in certain resorts.

In 2022 it added more resorts, including two more in the massive Three Valleys ski area: high-altitude Val Thorens and chic Courchevel . You travel out on Friday night so you can ski for seven days in the world’s biggest ski area and return the following Saturday evening.

Borovets, Bulgaria

Best: on a budget.

Borovets in Bulgaria came second in the Post Office’s annual survey of best-value ski resorts. But what’s it like?

The 58km of slopes are spread over three distinct sectors. The highest, Markudjik, has Alpine-like views across snowy peaks. In Sitnyakovo, beginners’ pistes wind through dense fir forest crossing steep red and black runs with views of the modernist village.

And if you take the egg-shaped, fibre-glass gondola (straight out of the 1980s) to Yastrebetz, you have spectacular views across the plain.

The instructors are good, most hotels have pools, and excursions are affordable. So it’s the hands-down choice for those on a budget – or was until Crystal Ski launched even more budget package holidays to Bosnia-Herzegovina . Now that’s a destination for the adventurous.

Jungfrau, Switzerland

Best for: non-skiing partners.

What to do if you ski and your partner doesn’t? Go to Switzerland , where trains double as ski lifts, and a service from Zurich airport cuts the journey time to the Jungfrau region by an hour.

Here you can both visit Mürren’s revolving Piz Gloria restaurant – the setting for On Her Majesty’s Secret Service – with its clifftop (but safe) walking routes. And you can recreate Bond’s famous chase, while your partner takes the cable car back down.

It is mostly walkers who take the railway inside the imposing north face of the Eiger to the restaurant overlooking the Aletsch glacier stretching 23km into the distance. Again your partner can race you down – in a train that trundles alongside the piste.

For a more equal contest, try Grindelwald’s slopes, where the pistes criss-cross runs full of tobogganers through quaint villages.

Pays de Gex, France

Best for: a short break.

It may come as a surprise that Geneva, which has a steady stream of low-cost flights, has resorts that are just 20 minutes to an hour’s drive away.

Pays de Gex , in the Jura mountains, has three such downhill ski areas: Lélex-Crozet, Mijoux-La Faucille and Menthières. All are small, traditional communes where lift passes start at €20 a day.

For cross-country skiing, head to La Vattay-Valserine with its 130km of trails.

Söll, Austria

Best for: après.

Austria is the undisputed home of après-ski and few venues can rival the famous Mooserwirt bar in St Anton . But for somewhere less expensive try Söll.

The party town is popular with younger crowds with its large, club-like venues and is part of the giant SkiWelt area. This in turn has teamed up with another big area, KitzSki, a three-minute bus ride away, to offer a combined pass. So you can earn your beers doing a circuit involving 88km of descent covering an astonishing 17,000 vertical metres in a day.

As long as you don’t overdo it on the schnapps, you can reach the slope where Dave Ryding became the first Briton to win an Alpine skiing World Cup race in Kitzbühel in 2022. Ski hard – celebrate harder!

Ruka, Finland

Best for: santa.

Finland is a favourite for young families wanting a winter holiday that focuses on visits to Santa, Northern Lights watching, cross-country skiing, dog and even reindeer sledding, as much as downhill skiing.

For a long time, there were just two main options – Levi and Ylläs. But a third resort, Ruka , is catching up fast, with a new gondola and a new village with a more Alpine feel than its rivals.

The skiing couldn’t be more different to the Alps , though. At this latitude the sunrise/sunset bathes the rime-covered fences in a pink light for just a few hours each day, after which the slopes are floodlit. The pistes are fairly short, though you might be grateful for the excuse for hot chocolate breaks when it’s cold, and most of the cabins and apartments have saunas to warm up in.

You can ski in Ruka any time until early May, however British tour operators only offer packages and direct flights until early February.

Geilo and Voss, Norway

Best for: late-season family skiing.

If you’re looking for an Easter break, any of the higher resorts (as well as lower Austrian ones, which have invested heavily in efficient snow-making) will guarantee snow-covered pistes. But for those looking for a winter wonderland, Norway keeps its snowy garb for longer.

The “green line” light rail service from Bergen airport means you can reach resorts such as Geilo , with its 34km of pistes spread over two sides of the valley, with just one change of train.

And it’s worth stopping at Voss, with a 3S gondola that takes you direct from the platform to the slopes. The connections from here are so good that you can leave the slopes after 3pm and be in the airport at 5.30pm for your evening flight back home.

Innsbruck, Austria

Best for: a city ski break.

A city ski break is ideal for skiers who like the bright lights too, and this season 23 of Innsbruck’s cultural attractions are covered by its Ski Plus City Pass , including Lumagica – an outdoor light show at the Hofgarten palace.

All 13 of Innsbruck’s resorts are 15 to 75 minutes from the city centre by tram, bus or train, and they include the Stubai glacier, with its 42km of runs, and Kühtai, one of the highest resorts in the Alps.

For the most spectacular views over the city, try the Nordkette, which you can reach from a new terminal in the city centre. And don’t feel self-conscious; you’ll see plenty of other people in ski gear in the heart of this buzzing university city.

Grandvalira, Andorra

Best for: english-speaking instructors.

Tiny Andorra still manages to be one of the biggest destinations for British skiers. One of its greatest attractions, apart from the sunshine, is the number of native English-speaking instructors.

A further attraction this winter is that its three ski areas have banded together to offer countrywide ski passes. So skiers on the lofty 210km of Grandvalira pistes that stretch from Pas de la Casa to Canillo via Soldeu can now buy passes giving access to the more tree-lined 63km of slopes of Pal-Arinsal or the 30km at freeride mecca Ordino-Arcalís and vice versa.

Getting between the areas still involves buses (though tour operators hope to lay on coaches for day trips, if there is demand), but you can take the opportunity to go duty-free shopping en route in the capital, Andorra la Vella, which also has the giant Caldea thermal spa.

Dolomiti Superski, Italy

Best for: scenery (and history).

Every resort boasts spectacular scenery, but the rose-tinted rocks of the Dolomites are especially eye-catching. And in the Dolomiti Superski area, you get prime views as you do clockwise and anti-clockwise circuits of the magnificent Sella Gruppo massif, which is in the centre of an area that has a mass of pistes to explore, coming off it like the spokes of a wheel.

The area is known for its restaurants, but history buffs will also jump at the chance to do the Grande Guerra circuit – a tour on skis of the trenches and fortifications of the First World War, when this area was fought over between the Austrians and Italians. The tour finishes with a ski lift with a difference – a horse-drawn sled that tows you to Armenterola.

Bad Kleinkirchheim, Austria

Best for: spas.

For spa-lovers, there can only be one country of choice – Austria . Its hotels are replete with a mass of steam rooms, saunas, indoor and outdoor pools and relaxation rooms in which to soothe aching muscles and reacquaint yourself with numb digits after a day on the slopes.

So how to choose between them? Well, for those who like southerly, sunny skiing and affordable prices, Ryanair this winter is flying direct to Klagenfurt from Stansted and Manchester. From here, the spa town of Bad Kleinkirchheim is just 50 minutes away.

The picturesque ski-in/ski-out resort has 103km of pistes, including the challenging Franz Klammer run, as it is home to Olympic downhill legend Franz Klammer. Perhaps you’ll even bump into him in the steam room...

Tignes-Val d’Isère, France

Best for: chalet lovers.

A combination of tighter labour laws, Brexit regulations, Covid fears and staff shortages meant that what was one of the most popular ways of going on a ski holiday – the catered chalet – all but disappeared in 2020.

However, after making a comeback post-pandemic in the form of the “contactless chalet”, where you find all your meals pre-prepared in the fridge and have breakfast delivered every day, keen skiers are slowly shifting back to the wined and dined lifestyle of chalet board luxury.

In Val d’Isère , one of France’s most famous resorts and an off-piste mecca, the chalets don’t come cheap, but for those lusting for the most convivial of holidays and fireside evenings, it might be just the ticket.

Heading for the pistes with the whole family? Here’s why Abruzzo in Italy should be your next ski holiday

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Europe Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 18, 2024

From beautiful Paris to smoke-filled coffeeshops in Amsterdam, Oktoberfest to La Tomatina, Europe is a massive, diverse continent with an unlimited assortment of things to see and do. You won’t have any problem filling your time, whether you’re backpacking Europe for a few months on a budget or just spending a few weeks there on a well-earned vacation.

The continent boasts wonderful beaches, historical architecture, amazing wine, and tons of world-class festivals. Every country is incredibly different from the next too, providing limitless variety in what you do during your trip.

I first backpacked Europe in 2006 and was hooked immediately. I’ve been visiting every year since, have run tours around the continent, and even wrote a book on traveling in Europe . It’s a destination I love and never get tired of exploring.

This guide will give you an overview of Europe and the tips and tricks you need to start planning your trip. I’ve also written extensive travel guides to each country on the continent (linked below in this post) so you can get more in-depth information for your specific itinerary too!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Europe

Click Here for Country Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in europe.

1. Tour the Greek Islands

These islands are the mecca of summer beach fun and each is unique in its own great way. There’s Ios (beach party central with archeological ruins and awesome boat tours); Kos (ancient ruins and nature); Crete (Bronze Age ruins of Knossos, hiking, beaches, and wine), Santorini (iconic blue water, white buildings, and local wineries); Mykonos , (the upscale party island with beautiful beaches, villages, and sunsets), Naxos (best island in the Cyclades). Plus, Milos, Corfu, Lemnos, Zakynthos, and so many more! With hundreds of islands in the country, you can always find what you are looking for!

2. Ride the rails

Europe is famous for its international rail system. Rail passes like the Eurail Pass have been around forever and still make it very easy to get from country to country on a relatively small budget (and with lots of flexibility). Europe has some of the fastest trains in the world that travel up to an incredible 217 mph (350 kph). The whole continent is connected by trains and there’s a growing push for even more connections and long-distance, high-speed trains in order to reduce flying and help combat climate change. There’s nothing more quintessential than riding the trains in Europe and I encourage you to take as many trains as possible. It’s one of the best ways to see the continent.

3. Get lost in Paris

The “City of Lights” is everything people say it is. I fell in love with it the first time I stepped foot in Paris . The city is just magical. You have a ton of museums, cafes, jazz clubs, famous art, and beautiful architecture. I love just strolling around the streets of the Quartier Latin (Latin Quarter) or Montmartre neighborhood as it makes for a breathtaking day. Another one of my favorite things to do here is just sit in the Jardin des Champs-Élysées park and picnic like the Parisians. For something a bit different, check out the famous Catacombs and Paris Sewer Museum. With so much to offer in the way of culture, history, and gastronomy, it would take years to see everything here but you can still get a good feel of the city in a few days.

4. Go city hopping

There are so many amazing cities in Europe that we’d need a top 100 to list them all. Here are some of my personal favorites and must-see cities: London is rich in history, culture, and the famous Big Ben clock; Edinburgh is a vibrant medieval city with cozy pubs and a famous castle with a huge New Year’s Eve Party; Amsterdam has cozy coffee shops and canopied tree-covered canals; Berlin has a wild party scene, street art, and the Berlin Wall; Barcelona has tapas, beach, and unique Gaudi architecture; coastal Lisbon has colorful tiles, old tramcars, cobblestone streets and plenty of fresh seafood; Prague has a beautiful intact Old Town, incredible architecture and eclectic bars; Tallinn Estonia has beautiful medieval buildings with colorful roofs. Florence  is a mecca for Italian Renaissance architecture, art history, and gelato; Stockholm mixes medieval architecture and modern art and design. Crisscross the continent, take in the culture, and enjoy all the historic cities!

5. Hit the Alps

Whether you go skiing in the winter or hiking in the summer, the Alps hold some of the most breathtaking views in all the world. You don’t even need to be an expert hiker because there are mountain trails for all levels and crystal-clear Alpine lakes. Check out the spectacular Eibsee trail loop in Bavaria at the foot of Die Zugspitze, Germany’s tallest mountain, for the clearest, multi-colored, sparkling lake you’ve ever seen. Or the Männlichen Kleine Scheidegg Panorama trail in Switzerland’s stunning green and snow-capped Alps. Or visit Italy’s Dolomites in South Tyrol for the scenic Seceda trail. The Alps have trails for every fitness level and in every season.

Other Things to See and Do in Europe

1. tour amsterdam.

I love Amsterdam so much that I lived here for a short period of time in 2006. Here cobblestone and brick streets weave around lovely canals as people ride their bikes to and fro. My favorite things to enjoy here are Amsterdam’s vibrant art and music scene and there are also a ton of interesting museums here like the Anne Frank House, FOAM, the history museum, and the hemp museum. Be sure you get out of the center into Jordaan and Oost with their wonderful outdoor cafes and fewer tourists. Also, a visit to Amsterdam wouldn’t be complete without a canal cruise to visit the many islands and there are many to choose from that include snacks and drinks, sunset cruises, live guided tours, and more.

2. Hang out in Barcelona

Barcelona is a city that goes 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It truly could give NYC a run for the “city that never sleeps” title. Be prepared for late-night dinners and parties until dawn. Besides a great food and nightlife scene, there is a wonderful beach, tons of Gaudi architecture (including the fairytale-like Parc Güell, as well as the iconic Sagrada Familia , which has been under construction for over 100 years!), incredible food tours, one of the best history museums in the country, and lots of outdoor spaces. What I love about Barcelona is that when you’re ready to chill, you can wander around Parc de la Ciutadella and marvel at the majestic fountains, plant life, and buildings created from an ornate military fortress.

3. Visit Berlin

Hip and trendy Berlin is an energetic destination. It is one of Europe’s most affordable capital cities, with a vibrant music and art scene and a growing foodie movement. Be sure to spend some time learning about the city’s darker history via the many excellent museums, memorials, and landmarks. The East Side Gallery, a section of the Berlin Wall that’s now painted with murals, and the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe are two especially powerful reminders of Germany’s past. For all periods of German history, don’t miss the Deutsches Historisches Museum (German Historical Museum) – it’s one of the best history museums in the world. Once you’ve had your fill of history, relax in Berlin’s many green spaces, from Tempelhof Field, the site of a former airfield and popular local hangout spot, to Tiergarten, a tree-covered former hunting ground for 17th-century aristocrats.

4. Drink beer at Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest is a must for anyone going to Germany at the end of September. While not a budget option since beers now cost 15 € a maß, I love the energy and friendly camaraderie this event inspires. For two weeks, millions of people from all over the world gather for lots of beer, excitement, music, and wild fun. Watching thousands of people sing together, raising quart-sized beer mugs for endless toasts, and enjoying the general party atmosphere makes you feel good about the world. (Or maybe that’s just the beer?) Just be sure to book your accommodation well in advance and be prepared to pay top prices for them. If you don’t have an outfit, don’t worry, there are plenty of shops even at the main train station where you can buy a Bavarian dirndl dress and men’s lederhosen.

5. Experience London

Get a taste of English culture in diverse London . The museums here are some of the best in the world (most are free) and include the Tate, the British Museum, the City Museum, the National Gallery, the Historical Museum. There’s no shortage of iconic sights here as well, with Big Ben, the House of Parliament, the London Eye, the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, and of course, Buckingham Palace. I love London’s diversity because of the countless international eateries with great food and wonderful pub culture, perfect for after a long day seeing the sights. Head to Brick Lane on the weekends for some amazing food and craft markets. I prefer Paris to London, but there is something sophisticated and fun about London. Just watch those pints — London is not a cheap destination!

6. Get outdoors in Scandinavia

My favorite region in Europe is Scandinavia. The quality of life here is high, the people are beautiful and friendly, and the cities are clean and historic. Cycling the cities, taking canal tours, hiking the vast forested areas, archipelago hopping, enjoying fika (a Swedish coffee break), and warming up in saunas are just a few of the popular activities that await you here. True, this area of Europe is not cheap, but there are plenty of ways to reduce your expenses. Don’t let the high prices scare you away. Highlights for me include Copenhagen , Stockholm , Gotland, Norway’s fjords, and Lapland in Finland .

7. Get enchanted in Prague

Prague has an amazing history and is one of the most beautiful and picturesque cities I’ve ever seen. Highlights include the 9th-century Prague Castle, the magnificent Charles Bridge (built in the 14th century and one of the oldest standing bridges in the world), the 10th-century old square with its iconic astronomical clock, and the winding Jewish Quarter. Even if you only have a few days there don’t miss the free walking tour which is one of my favorites in Europe and the best way to learn about the Old Town and the tragic history of the city that went from thriving Bohemian capital of art, music, and literature to part of the Iron Curtain after WWII. Some of my favorite gems here include the fantastic black light theater shows in 4D and the one-of-a-kind medieval dinner show in an old tavern complete with musicians and jugglers not to mention hearty food and drinks. During the weekends it heaves with people enjoying the bars, cheap beer, and delicious food so try to visit during the week (and in the spring or fall) to beat the crowds.

8. Relax on the French Riviera

Here, you can pretend to live the high life for a little bit. Have fun in the sun, relax on the beach, swim in azure blue water, hobnob with the rich and famous, and sail on (or gaze at) gigantic yachts. As for cities, Nice is nice with its palm-tree-lined promenade, old town, and many art museums. If you want to go see how the rich and famous live, spend an afternoon checking out Cannes to soak up some glamorous vibes on La Croisette where they hold the famous Cannes Film Festival. The kingdom of Monaco with its tiny streets, beautiful buildings, and world-famous casino is just a skip away too.

9. Enjoy the great outdoors in Interlaken

Located in the beautiful mountains of Switzerland, Interlaken is a gorgeous place to unwind with fantastic hiking, delicious hot chocolate, and plenty of outdoor sports. The area is full of natural attractions to explore, including the St. Beatus Caves (complete with a legendary dragon), the cascading 500-meter-high (1,640 feet) Giessbach Waterfalls, the Jungfraujoch mountain railway (which leads to the highest train station on the continent), and a plethora of lakes (hence the town’s name). It’s a good alternative to all the cities and museums. Interlaken is also a popular party destination for backpackers and other young travelers. By far, my favorite scenic and visually stunning trail was the Oberberghorn panoramic hike, where you can wander the green mountain ridge ogling the amazing views and the turquoise-blue Brienzersee.

10. Experience history in Rome

In this thriving historical city, you can’t walk two feet without stumbling over a ruin, making Rome a history buff’s dream. Its tiny streets are perfect for wandering as you explore the Colosseum, see the Forum and Palatine Hill, visit the Pantheon, spend time in Vatican City, admire the Spanish Steps, and toss coins into the famous Trevi Fountain. The skip-the-line tickets can definitely be worth it so you don’t waste time waiting outside attractions. Rome also has amazing food (it’s Italy, after all) and nightlife. Visit the Trastevere area for a taste of “local” Rome and chill bars. It’s my favorite area in the city because you feel like you’re in a small village in the middle of a big city.

11. Hike around the Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is my favorite part of Italy. These five beautiful cliffside towns are perched near warm waters and beautiful olive and grape groves. There are wondrous and strenuous hikes in these hills; for a real challenge, take trail #8. Or just walk the coastline for something less difficult. Many activities here revolve around the coastline: kayaking, swimming, having a beach picnic or visiting the Technical Naval Museum. If you happen to be here in December or January, don’t miss the Nativity Manarola, the world’s biggest lighted nativity scene.

12. Tour Krakow

Krakow looks like it stepped out of a medieval postcard. It’s a hip, trendy, and youthful city that’s the center of education in Poland, meaning there are a lot of university students here. Most travelers come to party here (the vodka is cheap) but try to enjoy the city’s history and food besides just the bars. Walk the Royal Road through the Old Town to the 13th-century Wawel Castle, tour Schindler’s Factory (where Schindler saved over 1,200 Jews during World War II), and visit the sobering Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp. You can also take a fascinating day trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Wieliczka Salt Mine, a 13th-century mine with cavernous chambers, statues, chapels, chandeliers, and cathedrals all carved out of salt.

13. Visit the ruin bars in Budapest

The coolest nightlife in all of Europe is found in Budapest . Built in abandoned buildings, ruin bars feature funky art installations, repurposed furniture, and quirky decor. They are amazing, fun, and great places to meet locals, as people of all ages flock here. Open since 2001, Szimpla Kert is the original ruin bar and one of my favorites, along with Instant-Fogas Complex, which takes up an entire building and is actually many different bars in one. Don’t skip the ruin bars — they’re one of the most unique things about the city!

14. Explore Cornwall

The best part of England is outside London, yet unfortunately, not a lot of travelers leave London. Head west to the area of Cornwall for cheaper prices, welcoming locals, natural beauty, great hiking, rolling hills, plenty of medieval castles, and picturesque small towns. If you like biking, the Camel Trail from Bodmin to Padstow is worth the trip and you even pass by a local vineyard. It’s an easy way to spend a day (and it’s pretty flat so it’s not too hard to do.) Plus, I had the best fish and chips in Cornwall! Overall, it’s what you think of as “traditional England.”

15. Walk the Camino

El Camino de Santiago (The Way of Saint James) is an ancient pilgrimage route that stretches from France all the way across northern Spain. It is a 500 mile (800 km) trail that winds through incredible terrain, ending in Santiago de Compostela at the cathedral where St. James is supposedly buried. As a pilgrim, you get a “pilgrim’s passport” which allows you to stay in affordable pilgrim-only hostels, making this a surprisingly budget-friendly adventure. While it usually takes over a month to complete, you can just walk a section if you don’t have the time. To receive a “Compostela” (certificate of completion), you just need to walk the last 62 miles (100 km), which generally takes 4-5 days.

16. Throw tomatoes during La Tomatina

By far my favorite festival, the largest food fight in the world happens during the last Wednesday of August in Bunol, Spain. What started in 1945 as a local brawl has turned into a massive event drawing tens of thousands of people from all over the world. For about an hour, everyone throws tomatoes at each other, leaving streets ankle-deep in tomato juice. Afterward, everyone walks down to the river, cleans off, and then heads to the town square for sangria and music.

17. Find Dracula in Romania

Not a lot of people visit Romania but this underrated country in Eastern Europe has undiscovered yet picturesque medieval towns like Brasov (home to “Dracula’s castle”), Sighisoara, and Sibiu; gorgeous beaches on the Black Sea; and incredible hiking in the Fagaras Mountains — all at dirt-cheap prices. Other major sights include frescoed Byzantine monasteries, the steepled wooden churches of Transylvania, the hip university town Cluj-Napoca, the post-communist capital of Bucharest, and the Danube Delta, a huge nature reserve.

18. Drink whisky in Islay

Whisky has a long history on Islay , an island off Scotland’s west coast. It’s been made there since the 16th-century — first in backyards and then, starting in the 19th-century, in large distilleries. Over the years, whisky from the island came to be considered a specialty and was used to flavor a lot of other blends on the mainland. There are currently nine working distilleries on the island, all located along the island’s shores, with Laphroaig, Ardbeg, and Lagavulin being the most famous. Most distilleries here make single-malt Scotch, meaning that only one type of grain (barley) is used. My visit here was amazing and, even if you don’t like whisky, there are tons of good hikes and walks throughout this magnificent island.

19. Explore Iceland

Iceland is a magical country with majestic waterfalls, hidden hot springs around every corner, and sweeping vistas unlike anywhere else in the world. After my first visit, the country quickly became one of my favorite countries. With whale watching in the summer, the northern lights in the winter, and geothermal baths for soaking in year-round, there really is no bad time to visit! While Iceland’s main draw is the epic natural landscapes, it’s worth spending a couple of days in Reykjavik with its café culture, artsy feel, and brightly colored wooden row houses.

20. Sail the Croatian coast

With calm winds, short distances, a coastline littered with over 1,000 islands, and countless historical sites, Croatia is one of the world’s best sailing destinations. If you can, go during the shoulder season when you can find some great deals. Plan to stay at least a couple of days on one of the islands, with the most popular being Brac, Hvar, Krk, Cres, and Lošinj. However, don’t be afraid to get off the beaten path and explore some of the lesser-known islands such as Silba, Vis, and Lastovo. If you want to splash out and spend a week partying on a yacht, check out The Yacht Week, which hosts week-long parties, complete with DJs, from May-September. You can book a full boat to share with friends or just a cabin if you’re traveling solo. Prices start at 5,250 HRK per person and go up to 9,300 HRK.

21. Explore the Balkans

While the Balkans have become more popular with backpackers in recent years, it’s still largely overlooked by most budget travelers, despite being an extremely budget-friendly region. The Balkan peninsula is home to great (and again, overlooked) wine, beautiful medieval towns like Kotor and Mostar, stunning mountainous landscapes, beautiful pebble beaches, coffee culture, fresh, hearty yet inexpensive food, and museums covering the area’s history, including the most recent turbulent events of the early 1990s. I especially loved my time in Albania . Don’t miss the beautiful beaches in Ksamil, nicknamed the “Maldives of Europe’ as well as the mountain village of Gjirokastër, which was occupied by Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans. The Balkans have so much to offer for every budget and every country has its unique cultural flavor.

22. Take a wine tour in the Loire Valley

Located in central France, the picturesque Loire Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage site and stretches 280 kilometers (174 miles) along the Loire River. One of the major wine-producing regions of France, the area is home to some of the best wines in the world, with over 1,000 vineyards open to the public. Even those who don’t drink wine will enjoy the beautiful small towns, great food, and the region’s over 300 impressive chateaux. I loved the medieval Chenonceau Castle and Chateau Villandry and the small villages like Saint-Florent-le-Vieil. Spring and Autumn are my favorite times to visit because you can go biking and do outdoor activities when it’s not too hot and there are fewer people. It’s an area not to be missed.

23. See Fado in Portugal

Fado is an important musical tradition in Portugal , originating in Lisbon and stretching back some 200 years. The word “fado” likely stems from the Latin word for fate, and it’s very haunting, poetic, and emotional music. Most of the songs follow themes of loss and mourning, and the music was popular with the working class (especially sailors). Performances normally take place in restaurants during dinner. In Lisbon, head to Clube de Fado, Tasca do Chico, Parreirinha de Alfama, or Senhor Vinho.

24. Tour green Slovenia

Slovenia is one of Europe’s least-visited destinations, which is mind-blowing to me because it’s an amazing place to visit. Slovenia offers all the beauty of Western Europe but at a fraction of the cost and with a fraction of the crowds. Perfect for outdoor adventure lovers, Slovenia offers rugged mountains, untouched landscapes, fantastic ski resorts, plentiful wine, sprawling cave systems, incredible food, and postcard-perfect lakes, such as the famous Lake Bled with its castle on an island. I loved Piran, Slovenia’s often overlooked coastal Venetian-style harbor town that was actually founded 3000 years ago. Stroll around its beautiful windy cobble-stoned streets, beautiful plazas, and take advantage of the many affordable restaurants right on the water. Make sure to also spend a few days in the country’s capital, Ljubljana, known as one of the continent’s greenest and most livable cities. Take a river cruise to see the city and enjoy the friendliness of the locals.

  For more information on specific countries in Europe, check out the guides below:

• Albania Travel Guide
• Austria Travel Guide
• Belgium Travel Guide
• Belarus Travel Guide
• Bosnia & Herzegovina Travel Guide
• Bulgaria Travel Guide
• Czechia Travel Guide
• Croatia Travel Guide
• Denmark Travel Guide
• England Travel Guide
• Estonia Travel Guide
• Finland Travel Guide
• France Travel Guide
• Germany Travel Guide
• Greece Travel Guide
• Hungary Travel Guide
• Iceland Travel Guide
• Ireland Travel Guide
• Italy Travel Guide
• Latvia Travel Guide
• Lithuania Travel Guide
• Malta Travel Guide
• Moldova Travel Guide
• Montenegro Travel Guide
• Netherlands Travel Guide
• Norway Travel Guide
• Portugal Travel Guide
• Poland Travel Guide
• Romania Travel Guide
• Scotland Travel Guide
• Slovakia Travel Guide
• Slovenia Travel Guide
• Spain Travel Guide
• Sweden Travel Guide
• Switzerland Travel Guide
• Ukraine Travel Guide

Europe Travel Costs

Accommodation – Accommodation prices vary greatly by region. In Western Europe, hostel dorm rooms cost between 25-45 EUR per night, depending on the room’s size and the popularity of the hostel. I stayed in a 6-bed dorm in Berlin for 20 EUR, while the same one would have cost me around 45 EUR in Paris. A room in Paris costs on the higher end and a room in cheaper Athens costs on the lower end.

In Eastern Europe, hostel dorm rooms cost between 10-15 EUR per night depending on the size of the dorm room and the popularity of the hostel. The further east you go, the cheaper it gets. Expect to pay around 30-60 EUR per night for a private room that sleeps two.

In Scandinavia, hostel dorm beds cost around 25-45 EUR, while private rooms are 65-80 EUR. Budget hotels start around 85 EUR.

Most accommodations offer free linens, free Wi-Fi, and a lot offer free breakfast, but it’s important to check specific websites for exact amenities.

Campsites cost between 10-15 EUR per night for a basic plot for two without electricity.

Food – Food traditions in Europe run deep, stretching back centuries to become integral parts of each country’s culture. From baguettes in France to tapas in Spain, from hearty Eastern European stews and goulash to the fresh vegetables and olive oils of the Mediterranean, European cuisine varies as much as the countries themselves. Food prices differ greatly across the continent, so check individual country guides for specifics.

But no matter where you are, even in the more expensive countries, finding places to eat within your budget is easier than you might think. Throughout Western Europe, you can find small shops, street food stalls, or food trucks where you can get sandwiches, gyros, kebabs, slices of pizza, or sausages for between 3-7 EUR. These shops are most often found in train stations, bus stations, and main pedestrian areas, and offer cheap food alternatives that can have you eating on 12-17 EUR per day. Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 7-10 EUR for a combo meal.

Turkish, Middle Eastern, and Vietnamese eateries abound in Germany, while Indian food is incredible and everywhere in the United Kingdom. Meals at these restaurants usually cost between 8-12 EUR.

Restaurant meals in casual, traditional eateries generally cost around 13-25 EUR for a main dish and drink. Food is much cheaper in the east than in the west, and in the west, northern regions like Scandinavia and the UK are more expensive than southern countries like Spain, Portugal, and Italy.

In Eastern Europe, even if you are eating out for all your meals, you can still get by on a food budget of as little as 15 EUR per day.

For drinks, a pint of beer is 2-5 EUR, a glass of wine is 2-7 EUR, a cappuccino is 2-5 EUR, and cocktails range from 6-14 EUR.

If you eat out, do so at lunch and get the prix-fixe menu (two-course or three-course set menu). Restaurants offer this set menu during lunch, and with prices between 10-20 EUR, it’s a way better deal than the regular dinner menu. You can also get affordable lunches at outdoor markets. So many European cities have huge fresh food markets throughout town.

You can cook your own food for around 45-65 EUR per week. This gets you basic staples like rice, pasta, seasonal produce, bread, and some meat. You can save money by shopping at discount supermarkets like Profi, Lidl, Aldi, and Penny Market.

If you want to save big money on meals, head to one of the markets, pick up some cheese, wine, bread, meats, or anything else, and go to the park for a picnic. (Or grab a sandwich for later!) You’ll find the locals doing the same thing, and it’s one of the cheaper ways to get a true taste of local food.

Backpacking Europe Suggested Budgets

Prices for travel in Europe vary greatly depending on how far north, east, south, or west you travel. If you stick to the budget accommodations, food, and tours listed here and use all my tips on saving money, you need about 65-110 EUR per day in Western Europe, 40-50 EUR in Eastern Europe, and about 85-130 EUR in Scandinavia.

Those numbers reflect a traveler who stays in hostels, cooks some meals and eats out cheaply, enjoys a few drinks, and sticks to free and cheap activities like hiking, walking tours, and enjoying nature. This is your typical backpacker budget. You aren’t going to have a fancy time, but you aren’t going to want for anything either.

However, by getting tourist cards and rail passes, avoiding flights, occasionally Couchsurfing or camping, cooking all your meals, and not drinking, you can travel a lot cheaper. On this budget, you could do Western Europe on 35-45 EUR per day, Eastern Europe on 20-25 EUR, and Scandinavia on 50-65 EUR. That would require you to take a train or a bus or hitchhike everywhere, skip most museums, and limit how often you go out.

Generally, the suggested daily budget for Europe is 80-120 EUR. You can use the chart below to get an idea of how much you need to budget daily. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Europe Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Individual country guides have more specific information on how to save money in them but here are some general tips on cutting your costs while you explore Europe:

• Picnic – This continent has a lot of little shops where you can buy pre-made sandwiches or ingredients to make your own. Many supermarkets have delis as well where you can get food to go. Buy some food, eat outside, and watch the city and its people go by. It’s a much more enjoyable and cheaper way to eat.
• Eat local and cheap – Not into picnicking? Eat at local sandwich shops, pizza parlors, Maoz, Wok to Walks, and outdoor street vendors. Avoiding restaurants and eating at a lot of the local “grab n’ go” places gives you a taste of the local cuisine at a much cheaper price. If you’re really on a budget, use your creative cooking skills to prepare meals at the hostel as well.
• Stay with a local – Hostels can add up really quickly. If you don’t have any friends with whom you can stay, consider using Couchsurfing , which connects you with locals who let you stay with them for free. Plus, they tend to also have meetups to meet other locals and travelers. It’s a great way to save on accommodation and meet a local who can share their insider tips and advice.
• Camp in a garden – A very good camping service specific to Europe is Campspace , which allows you to pitch a tent in someone’s backyard for free or for a small fee (around 10-20 EUR). All of the garden owners have profiles that tell you what services and facilities they offer. Also, many countries allow wild camping (like Sweden), which can save you a fortune if you have a tent.
• Take the bus – Budget bus companies like Flixbus can take you across the continent for cheap. I personally feel it’s best for day travel as sitting up for an overnight bus isn’t really ideal for sleeping. It isn’t glamorous, but with tickets starting at 5 EUR, you really can’t complain!
• Get a Rail Pass – Eurail Passes have saved me hundreds of dollars. If you are traveling far distances and through many countries, they are a great deal.
• Take the free city tours – One of the great things about Europe is that you can find free walking tours in all the major cities. They can be a great way to see the city attractions, take in some history, and learn your bearings without spending any money. Just make sure to tip your guide at the end!
• Plan accordingly – Plan your trip around Europe so you avoid doubling back. Transportation is a big expense so proper planning can save you a lot of money (and time). Go in a straight line or a loop. Booking your accommodation ahead helps you save as well since cheap, good places unsurprisingly get reserved first. One thing I’ve learned is that waiting until the last minute means you get stuck with expensive places or cheap places no one wants.
• Fly cheap – If you know where you are going and a train won’t do, try to book flights early. You can often get round trip fares for as little as 5 EUR from many of the European discount airlines like Ryanair or Wizz. Many capital cities have smaller airports farther from the city with ‘inconvenient’ times but cheaper fares. Keep in mind you might need to factor in an early morning Uber or taxi if the busses aren’t running and you have an early flight!
• Drink less – Those 5 EUR beers add up. Hit happy hours or pick and choose when you party. Hostel bars are a good place to get cheap drinks or buy your alcohol at the supermarket. Plus, in Europe, it’s legal to drink outside in parks, plazas, by the lakes or rivers. You’ll find you can save a lot of money by not going to bars and clubs. Partying your way across the continent will destroy your bank balance in no time.
• Get a city tourist card – Many local tourism offices sell a tourism card for all their attractions, tours, and restaurants. This card gives you free entry and substantial discounts on all the attractions and tours in a city, free local public transportation (a huge plus), and discounts at a few restaurants and shopping malls. They save a ton of money. If you plan on doing a lot of sightseeing, get one of these cards.
• Rideshare – If you’re flexible in your schedule, use the ridesharing service BlaBlaCar to catch rides with locals between cities (or countries) by paying a small fee. It’s like Airbnb but for rides. I used this service in Switzerland and, not only did I save a lot of money, but I got to meet interesting people and learn about local culture and life. Drivers are verified and it’s perfectly safe, though sometimes rides cancel at the last minute (which is why you need to be flexible). Check their ratings first and try to use rides where the person has done many trips.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water is safe to drink in most of Europe, so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.
• Get a HostelPass – HostelPass is a discount membership for hostels in Europe. Members get 10-20% off select hostels around Europe, as well as perks like free breakfast or free drinks. There are discounts on tours and activities too. It’s a great way to save money if you’re bouncing around Europe as they have hostels in 18 countries around the continent.

Where to Stay in Europe

Europe has a ton of budget accommodation options. The individual country and city guides have tons of recommendations but here’s a short list of some of my favorite budget hostels and hotels around Europe:

• The Flying Pig (Amsterdam, The Netherlands)
• Hotel 54 (Barcelona, Spain)
• Generator Hostel (Copenhagen, Denmark)
• Harcourt Hotel (Dublin, Ireland)
• Castle Rock (Edinburgh, Scotland)
• Ios Palm Pansion (Ios, Greece)
• Greg and Tom’s Party Hostel (Krakow, Poland)
• Largo da Sé Guest House (Lisbon, Portugal)
• Sophie’s Hostel (Prague, Czech Republic)
• The Yellow (Rome, Italy)
• City Backpackers (Stockholm, Sweden)

How to Get Around Europe

Public transportation – Transportation around most European cities is by tram, subway, or bus. Prices are typically around 2 EUR for a one-way ticket in Western Europe and closer to 1 EUR in Eastern Europe. Most large cities also have day passes available that offer unlimited public transportation. These passes are usually 5-12 EUR per day.

In large cities with international airports, there is usually a bus or train available that ferries travelers from the downtown core to the airport. Expect to pay around 5-15 EUR to get to/from the airport.

Bus – Buses are not quite as comfortable as Europe’s trains, although certain lines do have great amenities (like roomy seats and Wi-Fi). While buses are not the most efficient way to travel around the continent, they’re certainly dependable, reliable, and cheap. You can find last-minute rides for as little as 5 EUR. A route from Berlin to Munich is about 25 EUR, while Paris to Bordeaux can be as low as 10 EUR. Longer routes, like Amsterdam to Copenhagen, start at around 47 EUR.

Each country has its own national bus service, but some lines also take you long distances internationally. Megabus and Flixbus (which now owns Eurolines) are the most popular companies.

Train – Train travel is a great way to see Europe. Intercity train prices vary wildly from country to country, depending on whether you take the slow train or a high-speed train and how far in advance you book. For example, a high-speed train from Berlin to Munich costs around 38-60 EUR, Bordeaux to Paris is about 50-85 EUR, and Madrid to Barcelona ranges from 45-85 EUR. Non-high-speed trains and other intercity lines are a lot cheaper, generally costing about 40-50% of the price of high-speed trains. Eastern Europe inter-country trains usually cost between 45-100 EUR when the ticket is booked last minute. Short train rides of 2-3 hours within countries cost about 27 EUR.

To find routes and prices for trains around Europe, use Trainline .

You may also want to consider getting a Eurail Pass , which allows travelers to explore Europe by providing a set number of stops in a specific time period. These passes are continent-wide, country-specific, or regional. It can potentially save you hundreds of dollars.

Ridesharing/Car sharing – If your schedule is flexible, use a ridesharing service and catch rides with locals between cities (or countries). Drivers are verified and it’s perfectly safe. BlaBlaCar is the most popular.

If you’d rather rent a car yourself and find passengers to share a ride with, use Discover Cars to find the best car rental prices.

Flying – Budget airlines are so prolific that competition helps keep fares low. You can often find tickets where the fare is just 5 EUR round-trip! Companies like EasyJet, Ryanair, Wizz, and Vueling offer mind-blowingly cheap flights throughout Europe. Book at least a month early to scoop up great deals.

Make sure that the airport they fly into isn’t too far out of your way (transportation from the secondary airport sometimes negates the savings from using the budget airline itself).

Keep in mind that you’ll have to pay to check your baggage on these cheap flights. It costs about 25-39 EUR for one checked bag. If you wait to pay for your luggage at the gate, you end up paying almost double. Travel carry-on only to avoid this added cost.

Hitchhiking – Hitchhiking in Europe is very safe, but it’s not for everyone. Hitching is quite common around the continent and I’ve met a number of travelers who have done it (I, myself, traveled this way in Bulgaria and Iceland). Some countries are very supportive (Romania, Iceland, Germany) while others may be a bit more time-consuming (Italy, Spain). HitchWiki is the best website for hitchhiking info.

Here are my suggested articles for how to get around Europe:

• 7 Cheap Ways to Travel Across Europe
• Are Eurail Passes a Giant Scam or Do They Save You Money?
• The Ultimate Guide to Finding Cheap Flights

When to Go to Europe

There’s no wrong time to visit Europe. Peak season is summer, when Europe gets crowded and August is the time most European families are at the beach so everything becomes more crowded and expensive. But the overall atmosphere and weather are great during this time, so it’s still worth visiting during peak season (just book your accommodation in advance — especially in August). Keep in mind it’s much hotter in summer so if you like AC, be sure to check that your hostel or hotel has it before you book. You can expect the most crowds in Western Europe. For this reason, I feel summer is a great time to visit the Balkans and the Baltics because many people head to the beaches in Spain, France, Italy, Croatia, and Greece.

Shoulder season is spring and fall (April-May and September-October). It’s still warm during this time but there aren’t as many crowds and prices are cheaper. This is my favorite time to visit hotspot places like Spain, Croatia and Greece, where it’s still hot enough to swim in the sea but you have way more room on the beach. It’s also a good time to go hiking in the Alps in Germany, northern Italy, Slovenia and Switzerland because it’s cooler during the day so you’re much less sweaty on the mountain without shade. The weather is good, the crowds are smaller, and the prices lower.

Winter is from November to February but in much of Central Europe, it’s wet and cold until March or April. It gets cold, even as far south as it gets (like Greece). On the other hand, the Christmas season has Christmas markets and festivals galore! Even if it’s cold, this is a cultural tradition you can’t miss and why I love Europe in December. There is hot mulled wine, sweets, and plenty of hot snacks, which vary by country. One of my favorites is Prague because the Old Town Square is lit up with a gigantic tree with aromas of crispy cinnamon pastries and mulled wine. Berlin takes their Christmas markets very seriously, so there are around 80 different markets with special themes.

Winter is fantastic in Europe for skiing and snowboarding but it doesn’t have to break the bank if you plan carefully. While Switzerland and France are probably the most famous, they are also expensive, but there are plenty of budget winter options.

How to Stay Safe in Europe

Europe is very safe for backpacking and solo traveling, even if you’re traveling solo, and even as a solo female traveler. Violent crimes against tourists are very rare. In fact, some of the safest countries in the world are in Europe. (I wrote a whole article about how Europe is safe to visit right now .)

That said, there are scams and petty crimes you should watch out for, especially around popular tourist landmarks. The most important thing to be aware of is pickpockets in crowds and on public transportation. Zip your bags and don’t put your mobile phone in a jacket pocket where someone could quickly take it. This should be obvious but don’t flash your money to let everyone know you have a huge wad of cash.

When choosing a hostel, look for ones with lockers. It’s always a good idea to carry around a padlock or combination lock. Most hostels are safe and travelers respect each other and I’ve rarely seen things happen to people’s valuables. Nevertheless, I always think that prevention is better.

As anywhere, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). When at the bar, always keep an eye on your drink. Avoid walking home alone at night if you’re intoxicated.

For female travelers in particular, it’s always a good idea to have a bit of extra money on you just in case you need to take an Uber or taxi back by yourself so you don’t take unnecessary risks to save money. If you’re using apps to date people while traveling, please use common sense and meet in public places. Since I’m not a female traveler, please check out the numerous female bloggers who have first hand knowledge of this.

If you’re worried about scams, you can read about common travel scams to avoid here.

If you rent a vehicle, don’t leave any valuables in it overnight. Break-ins are rare, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Be aware that the UK drives on the left and that most rental cars in Europe will have manual transmissions unless you request otherwise.

When hiking, always bring water, sunscreen, and bandaids or foot plasters. There is nothing worse than being halfway up the mountain with a blister and nothing you can do about it!

Likewise, when at the coast, don’t forget not only to wear sunscreen! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen people get burnt to a crisp the first day. Be sure to check the weather before you depart and dress accordingly.

If you do experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary to loved ones so they know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Europe Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

GO DEEPER: Nomadic Matt’s In-Depth Budget Guide to Europe!

While I have a lot of free tips on Europe, I also wrote an entire book that goes into great detail on everything you need to plan a trip here on a budget! You’ll get suggested itineraries, budgets, even more ways to save money, my favorite restaurants, prices, practical information (i.e. phone numbers, websites, prices, safety advice, etc etc), and cultural tips.

I’ll give the insider view of Europe that I got from years of traveling and living here! The downloadable guide can be used on your Kindle, iPad, phone, or computer so you can have it with you when you go. Click here to learn more about my book on Europe!

Europe Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more tips for your trip? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Europe travel and continue planning your trip:

The 7 Best Hotels in London

10 Scotland Road Trip Tips You Need to Know Before You Go

The Perfect 7-Day Croatia Itinerary

The 6 Best Hotels in Copenhagen

The 6 Best Hotels in Florence

The 7 Best Hotels in Madrid

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