Italian consumer advocates are sounding the alarm over what they call completely unjustified price increases for lift tickets this winter season, warning that skiing could become a luxury reserved for affluent individuals.
Significant Cost Rises Across Italy
From the majestic Alps and stunning Dolomite mountains in the northern areas to the slopes of Abruzzo, prices are poised to increase by as much as 40% compared to 2021 levels, according to recent analysis.
The popular Dolomiti Superski ticket, which provides entry to all 12 resorts in the exclusive Dolomites, will now cost skiers €86 per day this season. In Roccaraso, a daily ski pass is expected to reach €60, after experiencing significant overcrowding during the previous winter.
Annual Ticket Prices and Additional Expenses
Meanwhile, annual skiing tickets will range from €755 per adult in Roccaraso to upwards of €1,800 in the northern Aosta area.
The expense of hiring ski equipment has also increased, along with lodging costs and restaurant prices throughout alpine destinations.
Consumer Group President Cites Unjustified Increases
Gabriele Melluso, leading the consumer protection group, stated that the price increases—which operators blame on increased utility expenses, resort maintenance, and demand for better equipment—were completely unjustified and not acceptable.
"Both because inflation in Italy are managed effectively and energy tariffs, which had raised operational costs for ski resort operators in 2022, have returned to normal," Melluso noted.
The president further stated that prices have climbed to points where budget-conscious visitors are being forced to abandon their traditional settimana bianca, or winter vacation, altogether.
Visitor Decrease and Broader Context
Melluso observed a sharp decline in mountain tourism during the current winter period, with 1 million fewer Italians visiting ski resorts compared to the previous year due to rising costs.
Even with these hikes, Italy remains a more affordable destination for winter sports fans in the European region compared to neighboring Switzerland, French destinations, and Austrian locations.
Olympic Context
The growing concern over skiing costs comes as the nation gets ready to host the 2026 Winter Games between the first three weeks of February. The nation's top diplomat, the foreign affairs official, recently stated that Italy had presented a plan to the United Nations calling for a "global truce" during the international event.
"With Milan Cortina we must similarly convey a peaceful communication and conversation... to halt conflicts during the Games," Tajani emphasized.
