Italy's Watchdog Slams Lift Ticket Cost Increases as Completely Unjustified
Italian consumer advocates are sounding the alarm over what they call entirely unreasonable price increases for lift tickets this cold-weather period, warning that skiing could become an exclusive privilege for the wealthy.
Significant Cost Rises Across Italy
From the majestic Alps and breathtaking Dolomites in the northern territories to the ski runs of Abruzzo, prices are set to rise by up to 40% compared to 2021 levels, according to fresh research.
The prestigious Dolomiti Superski pass, which grants access to all 12 resorts in the exclusive Dolomites, will now set visitors back €86 per day during the current winter. In Roccaraso, a single-day lift ticket is expected to reach €60, following significant overcrowding during the previous winter.
Annual Ticket Prices and Additional Expenses
At the same time, annual skiing tickets will vary between €755 per adult in Roccaraso to as much as €1,800 in the northern Aosta area.
The expense of hiring winter sports gear has also increased, along with lodging costs and dining expenses throughout mountain resorts.
Watchdog Leader Cites Unjustified Increases
Gabriele Melluso, leading the watchdog organization, stated that the cost rises—attributed by resorts to higher energy costs, resort maintenance, and demand for better equipment—were entirely unreasonable and unacceptable.
"Both because inflation in Italy are managed effectively and energy tariffs, which had increased expenses for ski resort operators in 2022, have stabilized at previous levels," Melluso noted.
He added 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 Wider Perspective
Melluso observed a sharp decline in mountain tourism during the 2024-2025 season, with 1 million fewer Italians visiting ski resorts compared to the previous year due to rising costs.
Even with these hikes, Italy remains a cheaper option for skiing enthusiasts in western Europe compared to nearby Swiss resorts, French destinations, and Austrian locations.
International Event Background
The growing concern over skiing costs comes as the country prepares to host the 2026 Winter Games between February 6 and 22. The nation's top diplomat, the foreign affairs official, announced on Friday that Italy had presented a plan to the United Nations urging a "global truce" during the international event.
"With Milan Cortina we must also send a message of peace and dialogue... to halt conflicts during the Games," he declared.
