19 February 2025
Discover budget-friendly snowboarding and ski resorts in Switzerland that offer winter fun at affordable prices.
Switzerland is known for its breathtaking ski resorts and ski slopes. But as a student, you don't necessarily have to dig deep into your pocket to enjoy winter in the Alps. In addition to the exclusive luxury resorts, there are numerous ski resorts that offer excellent value for money – often with special discounts for students. Whether you're looking for a weekend trip with friends or need a break in the snow between exams: these ski resorts offer unforgettable experiences without breaking your budget.
The Pizol ski area in eastern Switzerland offers breathtaking views of the Alps and a variety of ski slopes for winter sports enthusiasts of all abilities. Pizol has made a name for itself with guaranteed snow and offers freeride and fun park opportunities in addition to the classic descents. The ski area offers exciting challenges for experienced skiers and snowboarders. The day pass for students in high season costs CHF 43.50.
The Stoos ski area in the canton of Schwyz is small but very charming. Situated on a sunny high plateau, it offers classic ski slopes and great views of Lake Lucerne and the surrounding mountains. The relaxed atmosphere and the well-developed beginner areas are particularly worth mentioning. Stoos offers a mixture of sporting challenges and easy descents. The area offers good value for money, making it a perfect destination for beginners who want to enjoy winter sports without large crowds and excessive prices. The day pass for adults in high season costs CHF 56 in the online shop or CHF 58 at the ticket office.
The Aletsch Arena in Valais is a real winter sports paradise. Here you can ski in one of the largest and most beautiful glacier regions in the Alps. With the famous Aletsch glacier in the background, you can experience a breathtaking backdrop. The ski resort offers around 104 kilometres of slopes, which are ideal for both beginners and experienced skiers. In addition, there are numerous freeride trails and snow parks here. The Aletsch Arena not only offers a wide range of slopes, but also numerous discounts for multi-day passes. The area is less crowded than other Valais ski resorts, making for a relaxed atmosphere. Day passes for adults are available in high season starting from CHF 53 for early bookers on the website.
Moléson in the canton of Fribourg is ideal for winter sports enthusiasts who are looking for a small but superior ski resort. It offers a perfect mix of leisurely skiing and breathtaking views of the surrounding Swiss mountains. In addition to the wide slopes, there are also a variety of snowboarding and freeriding opportunities. It is less crowded and offers a quiet atmosphere in which to enjoy the countryside. The day pass is CHF 33 for young people up to the age of 24 – and CHF 42 for adults.
Elm in the Sernftal is a real insider tip for anyone who wants to experience the charm of a small, unspoilt ski resort. Here you can enjoy nature to the full while skiing on the gentle slopes or having fun in the freeride area. Elm is perfect for people who want to experience their first winter adventures on inexpensive ski slopes. Students up to the age of 26 benefit from the youth rate. The day pass costs CHF 40.
There are also various ways to save on accommodation in the Swiss mountains. If you prefer not to stay in an expensive hotel in the ski resort, you can use the following alternatives:
Youth hostels: many Swiss youth hostels offer inexpensive accommodation in the immediate vicinity of ski resorts. They are an inexpensive option, especially for solo travellers and groups.
Holiday apartments and Airbnb: if you book early, you can often find inexpensive apartments or holiday homes in the surrounding villages.
Mountain huts and SAC huts: the Swiss Alpine Club (SAC) operates numerous mountain huts, which often offer inexpensive accommodation in the countryside.
