By Arabella Peterson Entertainment 17.09.2025

The Best Beginner Ski Holidays That Won’t Break the Bank

Whether you're hitting the slopes or just in it for the cosy chalet, these budget-conscious holidays around the world are perfect for first-timers.

A few things tend to scare off the ski-curious. Firstly, the thought of hurtling down a frost-covered mountain with nothing but a couple of sticks is an intimidating prospect. Then there’s the cost – skiing can be prohibitively expensive when compared to, say, a camping trip or beachside hostel.

Luckily, the former can be softened by exploring resorts with smaller mountains, gentler runs, and well-rated beginner schools. Or, enough off-slope options to keep you occupied when the rest of your group is soaring down a double black diamond run at the top of the mountain.

The latter is a little trickier. Of course, everyone’s idea of ‘affordable’ when it comes to a vacation is relative – but these ski holidays manage to deliver the alpine magic without the eye-watering price tag.

So maybe you're a seasoned skier ready to tackle the powder like a pro, or maybe the sound of an après-ski hot chocolate and jacuzzi is more your thing. Either way, you’ll find something to love at these winter travel gems around the world.

Europe

Alpbach, Austria

This is one of Austria's smaller, more charming (and slightly cheaper) resorts with relaxed vibes and great beginner packages. The terrain is known for being wide, uncrowded, and unintimidating, making it a stress-free place to learn. Here, you get traditional Alpine charm without the St. Anton price tag. Plus, if you’re steering clear of the slopes, it’s been called one of Austria’s prettiest villages, with fairytale wooden chalets and snow-dusted streets that feel like the inside of a postcard.

Bansko, Bulgaria

This is one of the most affordable ski resorts in Europe with excellent beginner slopes, modern lifts, and English-speaking ski schools. In fact, with inexpensive lift passes, lessons, gear rental, food, and accommodation, you can often book an entire ski holiday in Bansko for a fraction of the price of what you’d pay in the Alps. The charming old town of Bansko blends cobblestone streets and historic architecture with a vibrant après-ski scene and plenty of cosy taverns (called mehanas) serving hearty Bulgarian food and local wine.

La Plagne, France

France is a little on the pricier side when it comes to Euro ski holidays, but this part of the vast Paradiski area offers plenty of budget accommodations and self-catering chalets. La Plagne is famous for its wide, gentle slopes that are perfect for first-time skiers. English-speaking group lessons are widely available and there are dedicated beginner areas separate from more advanced terrain, creating a low-pressure learning environment.

Passo Tonale, Italy

Passo Tonale has lots of wide, open blue and green runs, ideal for new skiers who want to build confidence without feeling crowded or rushed. Compared to glitzy Italian resorts like Cortina or Courmayeur, Passo Tonale offers much more affordable lift passes, rentals, accommodation, and food. Another benefit is that due to its position 1,800 to 3,100 metres above sea level, Passo Tonale has one of the longest seasons in Italy and reliable snow conditions all winter – great for planning (and budgeting) ahead. While it may not have the designer boutiques or five-star flash of other resorts, Passo Tonale has a laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere with plenty of cosy cafés, pizzerias, and mountain huts.

Jasná, Slovakia

The southern side of this Eastern European resort is particularly well-suited to beginners, with plenty of blue and easy red runs that are less crowded than the northern side. There's also a dedicated beginner zone and several highly rated ski schools. Jasná also has a relaxed après-ski scene with cosy mountain bars and Slovak cuisine. Nearby thermal spas and wellness hotels (like the famous Tatralandia water park and Bešeňová spa) offer the perfect way to unwind post-ski without breaking the bank.

Poiana Brașov, Romania

The ski schools at Poiana Brașov are well-regarded, and it’s considered the best-developed ski resort in Romania, with 11 ski runs and a good mix of terrain – mostly catering to beginners and intermediates. Located in the Carpathian Mountains, it offers breathtaking views from the lifts. Just 20 minutes from the beautiful medieval city of Brașov, you get the added bonus of rich culture, architecture, and history – including nearby Bran Castle (aka Dracula’s Castle).

Kranjska Gora, Slovenia

Kranjska Gora is known for its gentle, well-groomed slopes, especially around the main beginner area near the village centre. Many hotels and accommodations are just steps from the slopes, reducing the hassle of getting to and from the mountains for first-time skiers. Nestled in the Julian Alps near the Austrian and Italian borders, Kranjska Gora is picturesque and peaceful, with a friendly village feel. You’re also close to Lake Bled and Triglav National Park, making this an ideal spot for combining skiing with sightseeing.

North America

Big Sky, Montana

In relation to other locations, skiing in the U.S. is pricey overall, but there are a few places with a wider scope of options. Big Sky is certainly more affordable than Vail or Aspen, and less crowded with over 5,800 acres of skiable terrain. Big Sky is known for its state-of-the-art lift system and short lift lines – a huge bonus for beginners who want to maximise their time on the slopes without standing around. Situated in the stunning Rocky Mountains of Montana, Big Sky is far less flashy than many other U.S. resorts, but rich in natural beauty and small-town charm.

Mont Tremblant, Quebec

Mont Tremblant is famous for its well-designed layout with clearly marked green runs, many of which are long, scenic, and ideal for learning. The pedestrian-only village at the base of the mountain is colourful, cosy, and walkable – often compared to a mini Courchevel or Zermatt. You’ll find cafés, creperies, fondue restaurants, and après-ski spots that make you feel like you’re in the French Alps. While not ultra-budget, Tremblant is significantly more affordable than Western Canadian resorts like Whistler or Banff, especially when you factor in lift ticket deals, ski-and-stay packages.

Whitefish Mountain Resort, Montana

Many of the trails here are long, cruisy, and low-pressure, making it easy to build confidence without feeling overwhelmed. The Ski & Ride School is known for excellent beginner programs for both adults and kids, with private and group lessons at lower price points than most big-name resorts. It’s a locals’ favorite, which means you get authentic Montana hospitality and helpful, welcoming energy on the slopes. The nearby town of Whitefish offers great restaurants, breweries, hot springs, and boutique lodging, making it a full winter getaway.

Rest of the world

Thredbo, Australia

In the Snowy Mountains of New South Wales, Thredbo offers a great mix of beginner-friendly terrain, an approachable village atmosphere, and easy access for Aussie travellers looking to stay local. Thredbo is home to Friday Flat, one of the best beginner areas in the country. While Australian ski holidays aren’t cheap by global standards, Thredbo is still often a more budget-friendly alternative for locals compared to flying to Japan, New Zealand, or Europe. Costs can be cut with early bird lift passes, midweek accommodation deals, and road-tripping from Sydney or Canberra instead of flying.

Yongpyong Resort, South Korea

While Korea isn’t as cheap as somewhere like Eastern Europe, Yongpyong offers excellent value for money, especially considering the facilities are Olympic-level. You’ll find affordable ski packages, including lift passes, lessons, and rentals, and accommodation ranges from budget lodges to luxury hotels. It’s also a great alternative to pricier resorts in Japan, while still delivering consistent snow and cultural charm. Nestled in the Taebaek Mountains, the resort is surrounded by stunning pine forests, offering a peaceful and scenic environment.

Valle Nevado, Chile

Set high in the Andes Mountains, just 90 minutes from Santiago, Valle Nevado is South America’s most famous ski resort – and a fantastic option for first-timers looking for a Southern Hemisphere winter escape. Travelling in shoulder season (June or September) can also help reduce costs. There’s no town or village in the traditional sense, but staying on-mountain offers ski-in/ski-out access, and the resort has a handful of hotels, restaurants, and bars for a cosy all-in-one experience.