Skiing in Italy is more than just world-class slopes—it’s an immersion in Italian culture, stunning alpine scenery, and unforgettable après-ski. With the 2026 Winter Olympics fast approaching, now is the perfect time to experience Italy’s legendary ski resorts before they take center stage. Many resorts are even included on the Epic and Ikon Passes, making access easier than ever. We explore Italy’s top ski regions, must-visit resorts, and insider tips to help you plan the ultimate ski getaway.
Where to Ski in Italy?
The Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage site, boast some of the most dramatic ski terrain in Europe, characterized by towering limestone peaks and vast interconnected slopes. Italy’s other premier, though often overlooked, ski regions span the northern Alps, including Piedmont, Lombardy, Aosta Valley, South Tyrol, and Trentino-Alto Adige. Compared to neighboring Switzerland, France, and Austria, Italy’s ski resorts provide exceptional value, without compromising on luxury or quality. Many are part of expansive ski domains, such as Dolomiti Superski, which grants access to over 1,200 kilometers of interconnected slopes across 12 resorts.
How Many Ski Resorts Are in Italy?
Italy is home to nearly 300 ski resorts, ranging from vast interconnected ski areas to charming, family-friendly destinations. Whether you're carving down perfectly groomed runs, exploring off-piste terrain, or venturing into the backcountry, there's something for every level of skier. With thousands of kilometers of slopes and breathtaking alpine scenery, Italy is a dream destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
Ready to pair world-class skiing with incredible food and Italian hospitality? Let’s dive in.
What’s the Best Region in Italy for Skiing?
The Dolomites are undoubtedly the best region in Italy for skiing, known for their sunny weather, world-class ski infrastructure, and nearly seamless connections between resorts. Two standout ski areas offer the very best skiing in Italy:
Dolomiti Superski – A vast network covering 12 ski areas with over 1,200 km of interconnected slopes, set against the Dolomites' iconic jagged peaks.
SkiRama Dolomiti – A smaller but exceptional ski area, featuring 380 km of slopes across 8 ski resorts, including the stylish Madonna di Campiglio.
While the Dolomites dominate the Italian ski scene, other regions also offer world-class skiing. Below, we break down the best ski areas in Italy and what makes each unique.
The Dolomites (South Tyrol & Trentino-Alto Adige)
Dolomiti Superski
The Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offer Italy’s most iconic ski experience. Home to Cortina, the centerpiece of the 2026 Winter Olympics, this region is known for its dramatic peaks, reliable sunshine, and state-of-the-art lift infrastructure. Dolomiti Superski detailed above, encompasses 12 resorts and is available on the Dolomiti Superski pass along with the Ikon Pass. The Sellaronda ski circuit enables skiers to tour the region in a single day.
SkiRama Dolomiti and Madonna di Campiglio
A smaller but still extensive network, SkiRama offers 380 km of slopes across eight ski areas, including Madonna di Campiglio, Pinzolo, and Folgarida-Marilleva. While not as vast or seamlessly connected as Dolomiti Superski, it offers excellent skiing with more tree-lined runs and a mix of terrain. SkiRama is an Epic Pass partner. Nestled in the Brenta Dolomites, Madonna di Campiglio, with over 150 kilometers of slopes and modern lift systems attracts families, celebrities, and season skiers.
Aosta Valley
Located in Italy’s northwest, the Aosta Valley borders France and Switzerland, offering a stunning backdrop of iconic peaks such as Mont Blanc and the Matterhorn. Resorts in this region are renowned for their reliable snow, expansive ski areas, and high-altitude runs. It’s also a hotspot for backcountry and mountaineering enthusiasts who enjoy a bit more of a risk and a challenge when they traverse the slopes. Two of these are especially great:
Cervinia
Cervinia, located in the Aosta Valley, sits at the foot of the iconic Matterhorn and offers some of the highest-altitude skiing in Europe. With its vast, snow-sure slopes and long, wide-open pistes, Cervinia guarantees excellent conditions throughout the season. Its seamless connection to Zermatt in Switzerland, extends the skiable terrain, making it a top choice for skiers of all levels who want endless cruising runs and breathtaking alpine scenery.
Courmayeur
Courmayeur, nestled in the Aosta Valley at the foot of Mont Blanc, is one of Italy’s most stylish and scenic ski destinations. While its on-piste terrain is relatively compact, Courmayeur is known for its access to legendary backcountry routes, including the Vallée Blanche. With breathtaking views, heli-skiing opportunities, and a quick connection to Chamonix via the Mont Blanc Tunnel, Courmayeur is a top choice for athose seeking a mix of skiing and luxury.
The Milky Way (Via Lattea), Piedmont Region
The Milky Way (Via Lattea) ski area stretches across the Italian-French border, linking renowned resorts like Sestriere, Sauze d’Oulx, Claviere, and Montgenèvre under one extensive lift network. With over 400 kilometers of diverse terrain, it’s ideal for skiers seeking variety, from wide cruising runs to challenging off-piste descents. A host site of the 2006 Winter Olympics, the region boasts modern lift infrastructure and well-groomed slopes, all while maintaining its charming alpine character. Plus, its high-altitude setting ensures reliable snow conditions throughout the season.
Lombardy
Lombardy’s ski resorts combine scenic beauty, challenging terrain, and relaxation. The region is home to Livigno’s duty-free shopping, Bormio’s thermal spas, and the World Cup downhill course. Its proximity to Milan makes it an accessible and enticing option for a quick ski escape. Lombardy, along with the Piedmont region, offers a more chilled out, relaxed, and local flavor, great for those who just want a more relaxed quaint ski holiday.
Apennine Mountains
Far from the bustling Alpine resorts, the Apennine Mountains in central Italy provide a more relaxed skiing experience. Known for their affordability and charm, these resorts cater primarily to families and beginners. Their proximity to major cities like Rome and Florence make them a popular choice for locals looking to escape for a quick ski weekend without venturing too far from Italy’s cultural hubs.
2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics: Combining Sports with a Ski Trip
The 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics promises to be an unforgettable event, combining Italy’s rich culture with the thrill of world-class winter sports. Scheduled to take place from February 6 to February 22, 2026, the games will span across multiple iconic locations in northern Italy, including Milan, Cortina d’Ampezzo, Bormio, and Livigno.
Italy last hosted the Winter Olympics in 2006 with the Turin Games. An Italian ski trip offers a unique opportunity to witness historic Olympic events while skiing some of Italy’s best resorts. With a mix of urban and alpine venues, visitors can experience the best of both worlds—city excitement in Milan and outdoor adventure in the Alps.
Avant Ski has special access to the Olympics, as well as ski tour itineraries that include the Olympics. These spots will fill up VERY fast.
Key locations for the 2026 Milan-Cortina Olympics
Milan
Milan will host the opening ceremony at the historic San Siro Stadium, kicking off the 2026 Winter Olympics in grand style. The city will also be the venue for figure skating and ice hockey events. With its central role in the games, Milan provides a vibrant urban backdrop for these indoor competitions. Milan is also the fashion capital of the world, and that also goes for skiing. These days, gaiters are the talk of the town so check out our Avalon mesh gaiter so you can be in the fashion capital of the world while wearing the most fashionable balaclava.
Cortina d’Ampezzo
Cortina, often called the “Queen of the Dolomites,” will host several high-profile Olympic events, including alpine skiing, bobsleigh, and curling. Its reputation as a premier skiing destination aligns perfectly with its role in showcasing the best of the best winter sports.
Bormio
Bormio will be the venue for the men’s alpine skiing events, including the downhill and super-G races. Known for its challenging slopes, Bormio offers the perfect stage for these high-speed competitions.
Livigno
Livigno is set to host the freestyle skiing and snowboard competitions. These events will highlight the creativity and athleticism of competitors in disciplines like slopestyle and big air, making Livigno a hotspot for fans of adrenaline-filled sports.
Dining in the Italian Alps
Mountain Cuisine
After a day on the slopes, hearty mountain dishes offer the perfect way to warm up and refuel. The cuisine in the Italian Alps is rustic, filling, and deeply rooted in regional traditions. Staples like polenta, risotto, and gnocchi are often paired with rich sauces made from game meats, wild mushrooms, or local cheeses. The Dolomites, in particular, are known for specialties like canederli, which are savory bread dumplings, and speck, a smoked and cured ham that perfectly complements the mountain setting.
Michelin-Starred Dining
The Dolomites are a haven for fine dining, featuring some of Europe’s most celebrated Michelin-starred restaurants. St. Hubertus in Alta Badia is a shining example, with three stars awarded for its dedication to sustainability and local ingredients. Chef Norbert Niederkofler’s “Cook the Mountain” philosophy ensures that every dish embodies the essence of the Alps. Another standout is La Siriola in San Cassiano, where intimate luxury meets culinary artistry. For a more approachable but equally impressive experience, Baita Fraina in Cortina d’Ampezzo delivers a mix of Ladin, Tyrolean, and Italian flavors in a welcoming, family-run setting.
Mountain Huts
No visit to the Dolomites is complete without a stop at a rifugio, or mountain hut. These cozy, rustic lodges are scattered across the slopes, providing skiers with an inviting place to rest and enjoy a home-cooked meal. Inside, the warm glow of a fireplace and wooden interiors set the stage for hearty stews, charcuterie boards, and indulgent desserts like strudel or torta di noci. Many rifugios are family-run and carry recipes that have been passed down through generations. We have the inside scoop on the best rifugios to eat or even stay the night.
Hotels and Accommodations for Skiing in Italy
Italy’s ski resorts offer an impressive variety of accommodations, ensuring that every traveler finds the perfect place to stay. From luxury chalets with stunning views to budget-friendly inns full of charm, Italian ski areas cater to all preferences and budgets.
Luxury Hotels
Hotels in Cortina
Rosepetra Spa Resort and Faloria Spa Resort combine classic, old-world elegance with modern amenities, including award-winning spa facilities that offer a retreat after a day on the slopes. Rosepetra is located just outside the town center. Faloria is near the Faloria Cable Car. The Grand Hotel Savoia has a prime location in town along with iconic architecture and world-class service, making it another excellent choice for those seeking refined luxury.
A notable new addition is the Aman Hotel, opening in time for the Winter Olympics, which is expected to redefine opulence with its signature design and exceptional service. It has already generated significant buzz for its luxurious offerings and prime location.
For those who want more of a ski-in/ski-out convenience, Hotel Tofana Cortina is a top choice, offering direct access to the slopes along with stylish accommodations. Hotel Ambra Cortina and Hotel de Len are also centrally located in Cortina.
Hotels in the Aosta Valley
Le Massif in Courmayeur, Mont Blanc provides a five-star retreat with exceptional service, direct access to the lifts, and a private mountain lodge. Also in Courmayeur, Auberge de La Maison is an intimate chalet-style hotel with rustic luxury, a spectacular spa, and views of Mont Blanc. Cervinia stands out for having luxury accommodations combined with high-altitude skiing. The Hermitage Hotel & Spa is a Relais & Chateau property offering chalet-style elegance, top-notch spas and gourmet dining.
Looking to get into the best luxury hotels in the Dolomites, the Aosta Valley or Lombardy? What about during during the Olympic madness? PS - we have exclusive access to perks at these hotels.
Family-Friendly Options
Italian ski resorts are particularly accommodating to families. In Val Gardena, Hotel Gardena Grödnerhof offers a luxurious experience with a dedicated kids club. Hotel Oswald combines modern comforts with a welcoming atmosphere and kid-friendly services, including ski schools and childcare options.
How to Get to the Italian Alps
Getting to the Italian Alps by Air
Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP)
Distance to Bormio: Approximately 200 kilometers (124 miles)
Travel Time: Around 3 hours by car
Transfer Options: Car rentals are widely available. Alternatively, regional trains and buses connect Milan to the Italian Alps, including Bormio and Livigno.
Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE)
Distance to Cortina d’Ampezzo: About 150 kilometers (93 miles)
Travel Time: Approximately 2 hours by car or shuttle
Transfer Options: Services like Cortina Express and FlixBus offer convenient direct transfers to Cortina and other resorts in the Dolomites.
Getting to the Italian Alps by Train
From Milan: High-speed trains connect Milan to destinations such as Trento and Bolzano, both of which serve as gateways to the Italian Alps. From Trento, regional buses or shuttles reach resorts like Madonna di Campiglio. Travel time to Bolzano is approximately 3 hours.
From Rome: Frecciarossa high-speed trains link Rome to Milan, Verona, and Bolzano, making it possible to reach the Alps in about 5–6 hours total travel time.
Getting to the Italian Alps by Car
From Milan: Driving to resorts like Livigno or Bormio takes approximately 3–4 hours via well-maintained roads, such as the SS36 and SS38.
From Venice: The A27 highway provides access to the Dolomites, with resorts like Cortina d’Ampezzo reachable in around 2 hours.
FAQ
When is the best time to ski in Italy?
The ski season in Italy typically runs from late November to early April, with peak conditions in January and February. March offers great skiing with fewer crowds, and early-season skiing in December can be magical, especially in high-altitude resorts.
Are ski lessons available in English at Italian resorts?
Yes, most major resorts, especially in the Dolomites and Aosta Valley, have ski schools with English-speaking instructors. Private and group lessons are widely available for beginners and advanced skiers alike.
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