Italian Consumer Group Slams Lift Ticket Price Hikes as Completely Unjustified
Italian consumer advocates are sounding the alarm over what they describe as entirely unreasonable cost hikes for lift tickets this cold-weather period, warning that skiing could become an exclusive privilege for affluent individuals.
Substantial Price Increases Across Italy
Across the Alpine regions and breathtaking Dolomites in the northern territories to the ski runs of Abruzzo, prices are poised to increase by as much as 40% compared to 2021 levels, according to recent analysis.
The prestigious Dolomiti Superski pass, which grants access to all 12 resorts in the premium Dolomite area, will now cost skiers €86 per day this season. In the popular Abruzzo resort, a single-day lift ticket is expected to reach €60, following significant overcrowding last season.
Seasonal Pass Costs and Additional Expenses
At the same time, seasonal ski passes will vary between €755 per adult in Roccaraso to upwards of €1,800 in the Aosta valley.
The cost of renting winter sports gear has also increased, along with hotel accommodations and restaurant prices throughout alpine destinations.
Consumer Group President Cites Unjustified Increases
Gabriele Melluso, leading the consumer protection group, stated that the cost rises—attributed by resorts to increased utility expenses, resort maintenance, and demand for better equipment—were completely unjustified and unacceptable.
"Both because inflation in Italy are under control and energy tariffs, which had increased expenses for mountain facility managers in 2022, have stabilized at previous levels," Melluso noted.
He added that prices have climbed to points where less wealthy individuals are being forced to abandon their traditional settimana bianca, or winter vacation, completely.
Tourism Decline and Broader Context
He noted a significant drop in mountain tourism during the 2024-2025 season, with a million fewer domestic visitors hitting the slopes compared to the previous year due to rising costs.
Even with these hikes, Italy remains a cheaper option for winter sports fans in the European region compared to neighboring Switzerland, 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 the first three weeks of February. Italy's foreign minister, Antonio Tajani, announced on Friday that Italy had submitted a proposal to the United Nations urging a "worldwide ceasefire" during the global competition.
"Through the Winter Games we must also send a peaceful communication and dialogue... to stop warfare during the Games," he declared.
