Cortina d’Ampezzo, Veneto
Nestled in the Dolomites, Cortina d’Ampezzo is one of Italy’s premier ski resorts. Known for its glamorous ambiance and incredible scenery, Cortina offers world-class skiing and luxurious amenities. The town itself is picturesque, with charming streets, high-end shops, and cozy alpine cafes. It’s also a favorite spot for Italian celebrities, adding to its chic appeal.
Winter Highlights: Skiing, snowboarding, après-ski, and shopping in the stylish boutiques. The views of the Dolomites blanketed in snow are simply breathtaking.
Val Gardena, South Tyrol
Val Gardena, located in the heart of the Dolomites, is a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts. With a network of ski trails that connects to the renowned Dolomiti Superski area, Val Gardena is ideal for skiers of all levels. This area is also known for its unique blend of Italian and Austrian culture, which influences the cuisine and traditions.
Winter Highlights: Besides skiing and snowboarding, visitors can enjoy sledding, snowshoeing, and ice skating. The local Christmas markets and cozy mountain huts are perfect for a post-ski treat.
Bormio, Lombardy
Bormio is an alpine town known for its thermal baths, which have been used for relaxation and healing since Roman times. Located near the Stelvio Pass, Bormio offers excellent skiing options and natural hot springs, making it perfect for both adventure and relaxation. The slopes are challenging, and the scenery is pristine.
Winter Highlights: Ski by day and soak in the natural thermal baths by night. Bormio also hosts World Cup skiing events, attracting athletes and spectators alike.
Turin, Piedmont
Turin is a vibrant city with grand architecture, a rich history, and a fantastic food scene. In winter, the city takes on a magical charm with lights adorning the streets, and the Alps provide a snowy backdrop. Turin is especially famous for its chocolate, and winter is the perfect time to try local hot chocolate, or “cioccolata calda,” which is thick, rich, and comforting.
Winter Highlights: Visit the Mole Antonelliana, explore the Egyptian Museum, and sample Turin’s chocolate and wine. The Christmas markets and winter illuminations add a festive touch.
Bolzano, South Tyrol
Bolzano is a city that bridges Italian and Germanic cultures, making it a unique destination. Known for its stunning Christmas market, Bolzano is also the gateway to the Dolomites. The market fills the town with festive decorations, traditional crafts, and the aroma of mulled wine.
Winter Highlights: Stroll through the Christmas market, sample traditional South Tyrolean dishes, and take in views of the surrounding snow-covered mountains. Bolzano also hosts the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology, home to the famous “Iceman” mummy.
Aosta Valley
Aosta Valley, in the northwest corner of Italy, is an alpine region surrounded by towering mountains, including Mont Blanc and the Matterhorn. It’s known for its beautiful ski resorts, medieval castles, and stunning natural landscapes. Courmayeur is a favorite town here for skiing and offers breathtaking views of Mont Blanc.
Winter Highlights: Skiing and snowboarding in Courmayeur, exploring Aosta’s ancient Roman ruins, and visiting local castles. The food in this region, influenced by French and Italian flavors, is hearty and delicious.
Abetone, Tuscany
While Tuscany is known for its rolling hills and vineyards, the region’s Apennine mountains offer a surprising winter retreat in Abetone. This resort, located near the border with Emilia-Romagna, has a relaxed, family-friendly vibe and a good range of trails, making it perfect for beginner and intermediate skiers. The surrounding forested landscape adds to Abetone’s winter charm.
Winter Highlights: Skiing and snowboarding on beginner-friendly slopes, scenic winter hikes, and relaxing in cozy mountain inns. Abetone is also known for its charming village atmosphere and traditional Tuscan cuisine.
Alagna Valsesia, Piedmont
Alagna Valsesia is a lesser-known gem located at the foot of Monte Rosa, Europe’s second-highest mountain. It’s especially popular with advanced skiers and mountaineers, thanks to its off-piste trails and access to backcountry skiing. Alagna has a rustic charm, with traditional wooden chalets and a serene, unspoiled atmosphere that appeals to nature lovers.
Winter Highlights: Backcountry and off-piste skiing, scenic mountaineering, and snowshoeing. Alagna’s quaint alpine feel and proximity to the vast Monte Rosa ski area make it a must-visit for adventurers.
Livigno, Lombardy
Livigno, situated near the Swiss border, is known as Italy’s “Little Tibet” because of its high altitude and consistent snow coverage. Known for its duty-free status, Livigno attracts visitors with great shopping, vibrant nightlife, and one of Italy’s longest skiing seasons. The town also has an impressive array of slopes and off-piste trails.
Winter Highlights: Skiing, shopping at duty-free stores, and exploring the town’s lively après-ski. The snow park here is a major attraction for snowboarders and freestyle skiers.
Madonna di Campiglio, Trentino-Alto Adige
Madonna di Campiglio is one of Italy’s top ski resorts, known for its impressive slopes, luxurious accommodations, and vibrant après-ski scene. Nestled in the Brenta Dolomites, this destination offers everything from challenging ski runs to beginner trails, making it ideal for all skill levels. The surrounding area has a unique natural beauty, with frozen lakes, snow-capped forests, and dramatic mountain landscapes.
Winter Highlights: Skiing, snowboarding, and enjoying the chic après-ski spots in town. Madonna di Campiglio also hosts winter events like the Hahnenkamm Races and the Snow Sculpture Festival.
