12 Best Italian Ski Resorts

Despite the warmer weather during the winter months, Italy offers some excellent spots for skiing. Generally, Italy tends to be quiter than France or Switzerland making it an ideal choice if you are looking to escape the crowds. The Dolomites and the French, Swiss, and Savoy Alps are some of Europe’s highest mountain ranges that form Italy’s borders. With 18 peaks rising above 3,000 metres, of which 12 offer great skiing opportunity. Given the height, snow is almost guaranteed during the ski season in Italy.

Skiing in Italy offers a much slower pace, relaxed and hedonistic vibe. Lunches, dinners, aperitivi and digestivi are all taken seriously, it is as much about skiing as it about good food and drink. Experience spectacular scenery, indulge in hearty mountain food and dive into skiing, with these best Italian ski resorts. 

 

When is the best time to go skiing in Italy 

The ski season in Italy lasts from December to April. This is when snow blankets the Alps and Dolomites, the temperatures can drop to -10°C. Low tempreature paired with dry air means the snow lasts for longer. If you enjoy mountains, snow, and skiing, Italy should be on your winter bucket list. Discover the best Italian ski resorts below.

 

1Cortina d’Ampezzo

Cortina d’Ampezzo

At home in the Italian Alps, the charming resort town of Cortina d’Ampezzo can be found just two hours from Venice in the north of Italy. Host town of the Winter Olympic Games 2026, this breathtaking mountain destination is renowned for its magnificent landscapes, rich history and outstanding winter sport community.

This winter wonderland outshines rival ski destinations in Europe, catering for skiers of all abilities and boasting three of the world’s leading ski destinations with over 750 miles of snowy slopes. As one of the oldest and most prestigious resorts on the planet, Cortina has a long history of attracting the rich and famous including celebrities like George Clooney. When it’s time to take a break from the thrill of the slopes, Cortina’s idyllic mountain huts are there to greet you with hearty, wholesome menus of Italian cuisine.

Where to stay in Cortina d’Ampezzo: Grand Hotel Savoia – Newly renovated surrounded by the Dolomites. Cristallo – Set in an elevated position overlooking Cortina, and surrounded by the stunning Dolomites.

Discover: More Hotels in Cortina d’Ampezzo

 

 

2Val Gardena

Val Gardena best italian ski resorts

A 25km valley nestled in the Dolomites, Val Gardena is made up of Ortisei, San Cristina and Selva. Home to the longest slope in South Tyrol, Val Gardena offers nearly 400 km of skiing opportunity with an expansive network of connecting lifts, slopes, and trails. Featuring a variety of terrain, skiing in Val Gardena offers some of the world’s most fascinating skiing where you can whizz past frozen waterfalls, through a natural canyon and down the iconic Marmolada Glacier. The resort welcomes skiers of all abilities but offers an outstanding selection of challenging slopes making Val Gardena a top Italian ski resort for expert skiers. Val Gardena is a destination for avid skiers, a ski resort you visit to simply ski and relax rather than experience the apres-ski scene.

Where to stay in Val Gardena: Granbaita Dolomites – Located in the centre of Selva Gardena, shuttle will take you for free within 5 minutes to the main Dantercepies and Ciampinoi lifts. Adler Spa Resort Dolomiti – 100 yards from the Alpe di Siusi small cable car.

Discover: More Hotels in Val Gardena

 

 

3Courmayeur 

best places to ski in europe Courmayeur

Nestled on the Italian side of the highest mountain in the Alps, Courmayeur is a breathtaking Italian village and a leading ski destination in Europe. At the foot of Mont Blanc (Europe’s highest mountain), Courmayeur is perfectly located with stunning Alpine scenery and an iconic cable car ‘Skyway Monte Bianco’ which is a revolving glass gondola that which gently rotate a full 360 degrees for the duration of the ascent treats you to exceptional panoramic views over Mont Blanc stretching to the Matterhorn and Monte Rosa.

When it comes to skiing, Courmayeur boasts outstanding ski terrain and is famous for its phenomenal off-piste opportunities. At 1,224m it is a relatively low ski destination in Europe, however, at least 80% of the main ski area is covered by snow canons, do you the lack of snow is never a worry. The classic Italian resort is one full of character with mediaeval architecture, cobbled streets, enchanting chalets and the added benefit of being car free.

Where to stay in Courmayeur : Grand Hotel Courmayeur Mont Blanc  Brand new property consisting of four chalet style buildings.

Discover: More Hotels in Courmayeur

 

 

4Breuil-Cervinia and Valtournenche

Breuil-Cervinia and Valtournenche

Straddling the border of Italy and Switzerland with views of the Matterhorn, Breuil-Cervinia and Valtournenche is one of the highest Italian ski resorts. Connected to Switzerland’s renowned ski resort of Zermatt, Breuil-Cervinia and Valtournenche offers skiing between the two countries. An exceptional skiing destination for all abilities, expert skiers will find challenges over on the Swiss side whilst Breuil-Cervinia is outstanding for intermediate levels. This phenomenal ski resort is also an incredible choice for those wanting to enjoy Matterhorn skiing without the Zermatt price tag.

Where to stay in Breuil-Cervinia and Valtournenche : Hotel Hermitage Relais & Châteaux –  located at 2050 metres above sea level, at the foot of the Matterhorn, and provides a free shuttle to the ski lifts. Grand Hotel Cervino – Located in a tranquil area but ideal for après scene in Cervinia.

Discover: More Hotels in Breuil-Cervinia and Valtournenche

 

 

5Alta Badia

Alta Badia best italian ski resorts

As one of the best Italian ski resorts for families, Alta Badia is an excellent ski destination for beginners and intermediates. With a laid-back vibe and minimal crowds, Alta Badia is a superb choice for a family skiing trip and outstanding for little ones’ first skiing experience. For more experienced skiers, La Villa in Alta Badia welcomes the Alpine World Cup every December and those who fancy a challenge will enjoy the day-long Gardena Ronda Express circuit that features the world cup downhill slope. Covering six villages, there is plenty to keep all ages entertained away from the slopes too.

Where to stay in Alta Badia : Hotel Sassongher   Mountain retreat surrounded by the dramatic Sellaronda ski loop offering discreet luxury. Hotel La Perla – Wonderful ski-in/ski-out hotel in the charming village of Corvara

Discover: More Hotels in Alta Badia

 

 

6Bormio

Bormio best ski resorts in italy

On the list of Italian ski resorts, Bormio is one that comes with impeccable skiing, indulgent relaxation and a vibrant apres-ski scene. Boasting snow-sure slopes and a traditional Italian town vibe, Bormio is the ultimate Italian ski destination. Bormio is home to the biggest vertical drop in Italy with a summit to base run of 1787 metres. A popular ski resort for families, the main skiing of Vallecetta offers a third of the mountain dedicated to beginners whilst intermediate levels have designated slopes across half of Vallecetta. There is also plenty of opportunity for more advanced levels including Stelvio piste which will be the official host of the 2026 Winter Olympics alpine ski events. Off the slopes, Bormio is a great destination for exploration and relaxation with a breathtaking old town to discover overflowing with charm and three impeccable natural hot springs spas.

Where to stay in Bormio: Sottovento Luxury Hospitality –  Located in Bormio’s centre, 300 metres from the local ski resort. QC Terme Hotel Bagni Vecchi – Features 9 natural hot springs and thermal pool area in its large park. Located in Stelvio National Park, it is 4 km from the Bormio ski lifts.

Discover: More Hotels in Bormio 

 

Related: 12 Best Ski Destinations in Europe 

 

7Livigno

Livigno best italian ski resorts

Amongst the best Italian ski resorts and renowned for its remote, secluded location, Livigno is the most attractive ski destination in Europe. Nestled on a high alpine stage, Livigno is the umbrella for the mountain villages of Santa Maria, San Rocco and San Antonio that now form one resort. Featuring the most impressive terrain parks and one of the longest snow-sure skiing seasons, Livigno boasts 110 km of ski runs. Welcoming the freestyle skiing and snowboarding events of the 2026 Winter Olympics, Livigno offers skiing for all abilities including off-piste and heli-ski opportunities for the most advanced.

Where to stay in Livigno Hotel Baita Montana –  Family-run luxury hotel is just 600 metres from the Mottolino cable car. Bivio Hotel Plaza – Centrally located 300 metres from the Mottolino cable car

Discover: More Hotels in Livigno 

 

8Monterosa

Monterosa best italian ski resorts

One of the world’s largest skiing destinations, Monterosa connects the three resorts of Alagna, Champolus and Gressoney-La-Trinite. With breathtaking views of Europe’s three highest peaks, Monterosa is one of the best Italian ski resorts for views alone. However, the landscape is not Monterosa’s only attraction with the resort boasting some of the best skiing with 180 km of interconnecting lifts, slopes and trails. Off-piste skiers will be in heaven as Monterosa offers miles of fresh powdered terrain and soaring heights whilst heli-skiing opportunities are also available here.

Where to stay in Monterosa: CampZero Resort Situated just 600m from both Champoluc and Frachey, Camp Zero is the ideal base for those who are passionate about the skiing.

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9Madonna di Campiglio

Madonna di Campiglio best italian ski resorts

Offering some of the best Italian skiing, Madonna di Campiglio is a picturesque, untouched destination awarded best slope grooming in Italy. Connecting four villages offering a variety of mountain sports, Madonna di Campiglio is the ultimate winter destination where you can also enjoy ice skating, toboggan slopes and dogsledding amongst many other exciting opportunities. For skiing, Madonna di Campiglio over 150 km of lifts, trails and slopes including the challenging Dolomitica with a 70% gradient and Canalone Miramonti, the home of night skiing. Off the slopes, the charming resort has so much to offer and transforms into a winter wonderland in the run up to Christmas with holiday lights, festive decoration and quaint market stalls.

Where to stay in Madonna di Campiglio: 

Hotel Chalet Del Sogno – Featuring ski-to-door access, luxury, eco-friendly hotel situated in the heart of Madonna di Campiglio, surrounded by the spectacular Dolomites. 

Discover: More Hotels in Madonna di Campiglio 

 

10Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Alm) 

Alpe di Siusi top italian ski resorts

The Seiser Alm is the most breathtaking and the largest high Alpine pasture in Europe. When the alpine meadow of Alpe di Siusi transforms into a magical powdered landscape in the winter months, it is one of the few skiing destinations worldwide with guaranteed snow. With outstanding snow-production facilities across all of its slopes, Alpe di Siusi is one of the most snow-sure destinations on the planet. One of the best Italian ski resorts for families, Alpe di Siusi offers skiing lessons and opportunities for all ages and abilities including the smallest skiers. Alpe di Siusi offers endless skiing opportunities for children through its ski school and ski kindergarten in addition to offering children’s tours and winter playgrounds. Sharing slopes with Val Gardena, Alpe di Siusi also offers plenty of exciting skiing for expert and intermediate levels as well as beginners and children.

Where to stay in Alpe di Siusi : 

Alpina Dolomites – striking glass façade with indoor and outdoor pools, luxury hotel right on the ski slopes in. Seiser Alm Urthaler One of the most eco-friendly holiday havens on the southern side of the Alps. 

Discover: More Hotels in Alpe di Siusi 

 

11Sestriere and Val Chisone

Sestriere and Val Chisone

Part of the Milky Way ski area, Sestriere and Val Chisone is one of the highest Italian ski resorts. Offering the highest altitude of the 7 resorts in the Milky Way, Sestriere and Val Chisone offers a staggering 400 km of trails and slopes with interconnecting links. A resort bursting with history, Sestriere was amongst the first purpose-built ski resorts in the world, created in the 1930’s. A luxurious resort of charm and elegance, Sestriere is a firm favourite of celebrities, royalty and renowned winter athletes.

Where to stay in Sestriere and Val Chisone: Hotel Shackleton – Immersed in alpine landscape, based in the heart of one of the largest ski area in the Alps.

Discover: More Hotels in Sestriere and Val Chisone 

 

12Val di Fassa

Val di Fassa top italian ski resorts

One of the world’s leading destinations for advanced skiing, Val di Fassa is the largest skiing area on the planet. With 1220 km of slopes and trails, Val di Fassa offers endless skiing opportunities with an impressive selection of red and black slopes plus miles of powdered off-piste fields. Part of the Dolomiti Superski, Val di Fassa offers breathtaking views of the Italian Dolomites and seven charming villages provide an idyllic base. A melting pot of Italian and Austrian culture, the villages of Val di Fassa are fascinating to discover with vibrant spots offering exciting apres-ski and quieter locations for a more peaceful experience off-slope.

Where to stay in Val di Fassa : Ciampedie Luxury Alpine Spa Hotel – privileged position, arranged on a large and sunny terrace, Vigo di Fassa dominates the entire valley. Olympic SPA Hotel – Offering a heated outdoor pool after a long day of skiing. Surrounded by the Dolomites.

Discover: More Hotels in Val di Fassa

 

 

List of Italian Ski Resorts: 

 

      1. Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy
      2. Val Gardena
      3. Courmayeur, Italy
      4. Alta Badia
      5. Breuil-Cervinia and Valtournenche
      6. Bormio
      7. Livigno
      8. Monterosa
      9. Madonna di Campiglio
      10. Alpe di Siusi
      11. Sestriere and Val Chisone
      12. Val di Fassa

 

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