As winter approaches, skiers across Europe are checking prices, booking chalets, and dreaming of powder days. The European Ski Price Index 2025/26 by Holidu once again breaks down the real cost of hitting the slopes, analyzing more than 300 ski resorts with over 20 kilometers of trails.
The study combines the average daily accommodation rate with the official price of ski passes to calculate the true daily cost per person — revealing where skiing is most affordable, and where luxury comes at a premium.
This year’s findings are clear: France leads as the most budget-friendly skiing destination, while Austria, Italy, and Switzerland remain the continent’s luxury heavyweights.
How the Ski Price Index Works
Holidu’s Index uses a transparent calculation method that combines:
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Median nightly rental prices (from its database)
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Official day-pass rates from ski resorts
When 2025/26 rates are unavailable, last year’s pre-holiday prices are used as estimates.
The analysis covers two time periods:
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December 21–28, 2025 (high season)
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March 22–29, 2026 (low season)
The result is an average daily cost per person, accounting for both lift passes and lodging — a realistic measure of what a ski holiday truly costs.
The 10 Cheapest Ski Resorts in Europe — All in France
Once again, France dominates the affordability ranking, proving that great skiing doesn’t always require a big budget.
These lesser-known destinations in the Pyrenees and Vercors mountains offer scenic trails, authentic alpine charm, and lower prices, ideal for families and beginners.
| Rank | Resort | Location | Avg. Daily Cost (€) | Slopes (km) | Ski Pass (€) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Artouste-Laruns | Pyrenees | 43.5 | 27 | 24 |
| 2 | Lans en Vercors | Vercors | 44.2 | 23 | 20–24 |
| 3 | Réallon | Hautes-Alpes | 45 | 30 | 25 |
| 4 | Autrans – La Sure | Isère | 45.5 | 20 | 23 |
| 5 | Roubion les Buisses | Alpes-Maritimes | 47 | 30 | 28 |
| 6 | Hautacam – Argelès-Gazost | Pyrenees | 48 | 26 | 26 |
| 7 | Gresse en Vercors | Vercors | 48.5 | 20 | 25 |
| 8 | Crévoux | Provence-Alpes | 49.5 | 21.5 | 27 |
| 9 | Le Collet d’Allevard | Savoie | 51.25 | 35 | 28 |
| 10 | Saint-Léger-les-Mélèzes | Hautes-Alpes | 51.5 | 24 | 29 |
The cheapest resort, Artouste-Laruns, costs just €43.5 per day, offering 27 km of slopes and lift passes for €24.
While they may lack five-star amenities, these French gems make up for it with charm, calm, and affordability.
The 10 Most Expensive Ski Resorts in Europe — Luxury on the Slopes
On the opposite end of the spectrum are Europe’s most prestigious ski destinations.
Five of the top ten are located in Austria, three in Italy, and two in Switzerland — a trio of countries synonymous with alpine elegance.
| Rank | Resort | Country | Avg. Daily Cost (€) | Slopes (km) | Ski Pass (€) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Obergurgl-Hochgurgl | Austria | 287 | 108 | 73.5 |
| 2 | Cortina d’Ampezzo | Italy | 279.5 | 120 | 77–101 |
| 3 | Obertauern | Austria | 276.5 | 100 | 69.5 |
| 4 | Zermatt | Switzerland | 273 | 322 | 75 |
| 5 | Gitschberg Jochtal | Italy | 238 | 51.7 | 63 |
| 6 | Ischgl | Austria | 228.5 | 239 | 72 |
| 7 | St. Moritz – Corviglia | Switzerland | 222 | 163 | 80 |
| 8 | Madonna di Campiglio | Italy | 221 | 60 | 70 |
| 9 | Kitzbühel / Kirchberg / KitzSki | Austria | 214.75 | 185 | 68 |
| 10 | Hintertux Glacier | Austria | 214 | 60 | 65 |
Obergurgl-Hochgurgl in Austria tops the luxury list at €287 per day, offering 108 km of meticulously groomed slopes and top-tier après-ski amenities.
Cortina d’Ampezzo in Italy (€279.5) captivates visitors with Dolomite views, while Zermatt (€273) pairs stunning scenery of the Matterhorn with year-round skiing.
What the Index Reveals
The gap between Europe’s most affordable and most exclusive ski destinations exceeds €230 per day.
But cost isn’t everything — the real difference lies in atmosphere and experience.
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France stands out for accessible slopes and authenticity.
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Austria and Switzerland offer high-end luxury and prestige.
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Italy blends fine food, family-friendly vibes, and the spirit of “la dolce vita.”
Experts advise booking early to secure better rates, especially as warmer winters push up prices in high-altitude areas.
For those seeking luxury, off-peak travel and multi-resort passes can help manage costs.
The Bottom Line
From €43.5 in France to €287 in Austria, Europe’s slopes offer choices for every budget.
Whether your ideal winter holiday means sipping espresso between runs or enjoying caviar in St. Moritz, one thing is certain — the mountains await.
The best ski trip isn’t the most expensive one, but the one that fits your rhythm and your budget.