Italy’s ski resorts offer a perfect blend of thrilling slopes and rich cultural experiences. From the towering Alps to the stunning Dolomites, these winter wonderlands promise unforgettable adventures for skiers of all levels. The country’s top ski resorts showcase Italy’s unique charm, combining world-class skiing with mouthwatering cuisine and breathtaking scenery.

Visitors can expect more than just great skiing at these Italian resorts. Each destination boasts its character, from cozy mountain villages to modern ski towns. Whether you’re looking for challenging runs, family-friendly slopes, or après-ski relaxation, Italy’s ski resorts have something special to offer every snow enthusiast.

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Best Ski Resorts in Italy

1. Cortina d’Ampezzo

Aerial view of the Tofana ski racing slope at Cortina d'Ampezzo in Italy
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Cortina d’Ampezzo is a jewel in the Italian Alps. This glamorous resort town combines world-class skiing with Italian sophistication. The slopes offer breathtaking views of the jagged Dolomite peaks, creating a stunning backdrop for winter sports.

The ski area boasts over 140 km of runs across three distinct zones. Beginners can find gentle slopes at Socrepes, while intermediate skiers will love cruising the scenic reds at Cinque Torri. Advanced riders can test their mettle on the steep Forcella Rossa or tackle the Olympic downhill course on Tofana.

Beyond the slopes, Cortina charms visitors with its elegant town center. The Corso Italia buzzes with high-end boutiques and cozy cafes.

Après-ski here means sipping Aperol Spritz while people-watching in the piazza. To taste local culture, visit one of the family-run mountain huts serving hearty Dolomite cuisine.

The resort’s Italian flair sets it apart from other Alpine destinations. A mix of chic locals and international visitors creates a lively atmosphere on and off the mountain. With its blend of great skiing, stunning scenery, and refined ambiance, Cortina d’Ampezzo is a must-visit for any winter sports enthusiast.

2. Cervinia (Breuil-Cervinia and Valtournenche)

Ski slope and ski lift at a ski resort in Breuil-Cervinia
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Nestled at the foot of the iconic Matterhorn, Cervinia offers a snow-sure paradise for ski enthusiasts. This high-altitude resort boasts an impressive 360 km of slopes combined with neighboring Zermatt in Switzerland. Skiers can glide across borders, experiencing two countries in one thrilling adventure.

The resort caters to all skill levels, from gentle nursery slopes to challenging black runs. Beginners will love the wide, cruisy blues at Plan Maison, while advanced skiers can test their mettle on the 11 km Ventina run. The Indianpark snowboard area provides top-notch rails and kickers for those seeking an adrenaline rush.

Cervinia’s charm extends beyond the slopes. The resort exudes a cozy Italian atmosphere, with inviting hotels offering ski-in and ski-out access. After a day on the mountain, visitors can indulge in hearty Italian cuisine and warm up with a steaming cup of hot chocolate.

The Valtournenche area adds a family-friendly dimension to the resort. Its gentler slopes and dedicated children’s areas make it perfect for those traveling with little ones. The stunning views of the Matterhorn serve as a constant backdrop, reminding skiers of the majestic beauty of the Alps.

3. Val Gardena

Blue ski chairlift at the Selva di Val Gardena ski resort in Italy
Alexey Oblov / Adobe Stock

Val Gardena is a stunning ski resort nestled in the heart of the Dolomites. This picturesque valley boasts three charming villages: Ortisei, Santa Cristina, and Selva. Each offers its unique charm and access to the vast Dolomiti Superski area.

The resort’s 175 kilometers of slopes cater to all skill levels. Beginners can find gentle runs near the villages, while advanced skiers can tackle challenging black runs like the Saslong World Cup downhill course. The modern lift system whisks visitors to breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.

Val Gardena is known for its warm hospitality and delectable cuisine off the slopes. Visitors can indulge in gourmet meals at mountain huts or Michelin-starred restaurants in the villages. The area’s rich Ladin culture adds a unique flavor to the après-ski scene, with cozy bars and live music venues dotting the resort.

The Alpin Garden Luxury Maison & Spa in Ortisei is a top choice for those seeking luxury accommodations. This adults-only retreat offers stylish rooms, a stunning wellness area, and first-class dining. Its convenient shuttle service makes exploring the village center a breeze.

4. Livigno

Panoramic view of the Dolomites mountains and the Italian Alps at the Livigno, Italy
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Nestled in the Italian Alps, Livigno is a ski lover’s paradise. This charming resort town boasts over 115 kilometers of slopes, catering to all skill levels. The wide, open runs are perfect for beginners and intermediates, while expert skiers can tackle challenging off-piste terrain.

Livigno’s high altitude ensures excellent snow conditions from November through May. The resort’s modern lift system whisks visitors up the mountain quickly, maximizing time on the slopes. After a thrilling day of skiing, visitors can unwind in one of the town’s cozy mountain restaurants.

The car-free village center adds to Livigno’s appeal. Visitors can stroll along cobblestone streets with boutiques, cafes, and bars. The town’s duty-free status makes it a shopper’s dream, with great deals on electronics, cosmetics, and designer goods.

For a luxurious stay, the Park Chalet Village offers stunning chalets. These wood and stone retreats feature private spa baths, saunas, and sensory showers. It’s the perfect place to relax after an action-packed day on Livigno’s slopes.

See Related: Best Regions in Italy for Villa Rentals: Find Your Perfect Getaway

5. Courmayeur

Winter scenery and skiing in Courmayeur, Aosta valley, Italy
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Nestled at the foot of Mont Blanc, Courmayeur is a gem in the Italian Alps. This charming resort offers a perfect blend of world-class skiing and Italian flair. The slopes cater to all skill levels, with plenty of options for beginners and experts alike.

Courmayeur’s ski area boasts stunning views of the surrounding peaks. Skiers can enjoy 100 kilometers of groomed runs and options for off-piste adventures. The resort is known for its excellent snow conditions thanks to its high altitude and northerly aspect.

Beyond skiing, Courmayeur offers a taste of la dolce vita. The town’s cobblestone streets are lined with boutiques, cafes, and restaurants serving delicious local cuisine. After a day on the slopes, visitors can relax in one of the many cozy bars or indulge in a spa treatment.

The resort is easily accessible, with Geneva airport just a 90-minute drive away. Courmayeur’s ski season typically runs from late November to early April, with the best conditions often found in January and February.

6. Sestriere & Val Chisone

Panoramic view of the Sestriere snow-covered alpine village in Italy
Mike Dot / Adobe Stock

Sestriere and Val Chisone offer a stunning alpine experience in the heart of Italy’s Piedmont region. The area boasts breathtaking views of the mountains, with peaks reaching nearly 2,800 meters. Skiers and snowboarders flock here for the varied terrain and excellent snow conditions.

The resort caters to all skill levels, but intermediate skiers will feel especially at home. Red runs dominate the landscape, providing exciting challenges for those looking to push their abilities. Beginners aren’t left out, with gentle slopes near the village perfect for finding your snow legs.

For thrill-seekers, Sestriere doesn’t disappoint. The resort offers heart-pumping black runs and off-piste adventures.

Adrenaline junkies can even try heli-skiing, dropping onto untouched powder from a helicopter. After a day on the slopes, visitors can unwind in cozy mountain restaurants, savoring local Piedmontese cuisine and wines.

The area’s charm extends beyond skiing. Sestriere and Val Chisone boast a rich cultural heritage, with charming villages dotting the valley. Visitors can explore centuries-old churches, sample artisanal cheeses, or soak in natural hot springs for a truly Italian alpine experience.

7. Monterosa Ski – Champoluc

Panoramic view of a ski slope at the Monterosa Ski - Champoluc in Italy
lucianofochi / Adobe Stock

Nestled in the heart of the Aosta Valley, Monterosa Ski—Champoluc is a hidden gem sure to delight ski enthusiasts. This stunning resort boasts breathtaking views of the Monte Rosa massif, the second-highest mountain range in the Alps.

Skiers can enjoy a vast network of interconnected slopes across three valleys. The terrain caters to all skill levels but is especially thrilling for intermediate and advanced riders. With plenty of off-piste opportunities, powder hounds will find their slice of heaven here.

One of the most exciting features is the chance to reach an altitude of 3,275 meters via modern lifts. Visitors can soak in panoramic vistas of the surrounding 4,000-meter peaks from this lofty perch. It’s an unforgettable experience that’ll make anyone feel on top of the world.

The resort’s charm extends beyond the slopes. Charming Alpine villages dot the area, offering cozy accommodations and tasty local cuisine. After a day on the mountain, skiers can unwind in traditional rifugios or sample regional specialties in quaint restaurants.

8. Alta Badia

Panoramic view of the Ski Resort of Corvara at the Alta Badia in Italy
EKH-Pictures / Adobe Stock

Alta Badia is a winter wonderland nestled in the heart of the Dolomites. This charming ski resort boasts 130 kilometers of well-groomed pistes, catering to skiers of all levels. The sunny area offers perfect conditions for hitting the slopes from December through April.

Families love Alta Badia for its beginner-friendly terrain. Nearly half the runs are easy blues, ideal for kids and new skiers to build confidence.

But don’t worry – there’s plenty to challenge more advanced riders, too. The famous Gran Risa black run in La Villa hosts thrilling World Cup races yearly.

One of Alta Badia’s biggest draws is its connection to the Dolomiti Superski network. Skiers can access a massive 500-kilometer of interconnected runs without removing their skis. The iconic Sellaronda circuit loops around the impressive Sella massif, offering breathtaking views at every turn.

After a day on the mountain, Alta Badia’s cozy mountain huts beckon. These rustic refuges serve hearty South Tyrolean cuisine with a dash of Italian flair. It’s the perfect way to refuel and soak in the area’s unique blend of cultures.

  • Rating: 4.8 (1203 reviews)
  • Location: Alta Badia, South Tyrol, Italy
  • Contact: +39 0471 836176
  • Website: Visit Website

9. Madonna di Campiglio

Panoramic view of a ski resort at Madonna di Campiglio in South Tyrol, Trentino, Italy
brusign / Adobe Stock

Madonna di Campiglio is a gem among Italian ski resorts. Nestled in the heart of the Dolomites, this charming town offers a perfect blend of luxury and adventure. The slopes here are a skier’s dream, with over 150 kilometers of trails catering to all skill levels.

Gliding down the pristine runs, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. The resort’s state-of-the-art lift system whisks you up the mountain in no time, maximizing your time on the snow. For thrill-seekers, there’s an impressive snow park with jumps and rails to test your skills.

After a day on the slopes, the town comes alive with apres-ski activities. You can indulge in a relaxing spa treatment, savor delicious Italian cuisine at one of the many restaurants, or simply stroll through the picturesque streets. The resort also offers unique experiences like night skiing and moonlit snowshoe hikes.

Madonna di Campiglio isn’t just for winter sports enthusiasts. The area transforms into a paradise for hikers and mountain bikers in summer. With its stunning scenery and world-class facilities, it’s no wonder this resort is a favorite among locals and international visitors.

See Related: Two Weeks in Italy Itinerary: The Perfect Family Adventure

10. Passo Tonale

Panoramic view of ski resort Passo Tonale, Italy ski slopes
konyt / Adobe Stock

Passo Tonale is a winter wonderland that straddles the border of Lombardy and Trentino. This high-altitude resort boasts snow-sure conditions from November to May, making it a favorite among skiers and snowboarders looking for a long season.

The resort offers a mix of slopes for all abilities. Beginners can find their feet on gentle nursery slopes, while more experienced skiers can tackle challenging black runs. The Presena Glacier provides year-round skiing opportunities, a rare treat in the Italian Alps.

Passo Tonale’s modern lift system whisks visitors up the mountain quickly, maximizing time on the slopes. After skiing, visitors can unwind in cozy mountain huts serving hearty local cuisine. The resort also offers night skiing, adding an extra thrill to the winter experience.

11. Champoluc

Mountain Hut and ski slopes in Champoluc, Italy
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Champoluc is a hidden gem among Italian ski resorts in the heart of the Monterosa ski area. This charming village perfectly blends the traditional Alpine atmosphere with modern amenities, making it an ideal destination for ski enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Champoluc’s extensive network of slopes caters to all skill levels, from gentle beginner runs to challenging off-piste terrain. The resort’s well-groomed pistes wind through picturesque forests and open snowfields, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding glaciers and peaks. Skiers and snowboarders can explore over 180 kilometers of trails across the Monterosa ski area.

For those seeking adventure beyond the marked runs, Champoluc delivers in spades. The resort is renowned for its excellent freeride opportunities, attracting powder hounds from around the globe. Experienced guides are available to lead thrill-seekers to the best backcountry spots and untouched powder stashes.

After a day on the slopes, visitors can unwind in Champoluc’s cozy village center. The resort boasts authentic Italian restaurants serving hearty mountain cuisine and local specialties. While après-ski options are relatively low-key compared to some flashier resorts, there’s still plenty of opportunity to enjoy a relaxing drink or two in one of the village’s welcoming bars.

Different Types of Ski Terrain in Italy

Panoramic view of the slopes and skiers at Cortina D'Ampezzo ski resort in North Italy
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Italy’s ski resorts offer a diverse range of terrain to suit all levels of skiers and snowboarders. From gentle slopes for beginners to challenging runs for experts, the Italian Alps and Dolomites provide exciting options for every winter sports enthusiast.

Alpine Skiing Areas

Panoramic view of the slopes at Cortina D'Ampezzo ski resort in Italy
Alexey Oblov / Adobe Stock

The Italian Alps boast some of the best alpine skiing in Europe. Resorts like Cortina d’Ampezzo and Madonna di Campiglio feature long, well-groomed runs perfect for carving turns.

Cortina’s Tofana area offers steep, challenging descents for advanced skiers. Meanwhile, Madonna di Campiglio has over 150 km of interconnected slopes. You’ll find a good mix of beginner, intermediate, and expert runs here.

In the Dolomites, Alta Badia is known for its wide, sunny slopes, which are ideal for beginners and intermediates. The resort is connected to the Sella Ronda circuit, which gives access to 500 km of pistes.

Freestyle Zones

Man skiing at a slope on the Italian Alps
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Many Italian ski resorts have invested in world-class terrain parks and freestyle areas. Livigno, in Lombardy, is a freestyle haven with multiple snow parks.

The Mottolino Fun Mountain features jumps, rails, and a superpipe. Beginners can practice in the easy park, while pros hit the pro line with big air jumps.

Sestriere, host of the 2006 Winter Olympics, maintains excellent freestyle facilities. Its snow park includes a halfpipe and various jumps and obstacles for all skill levels.

Backcountry Adventures

Skier skiing at the ski slopes in Monte Rosa ski resort
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Italy offers amazing opportunities for off-piste skiing and backcountry adventures. The Monterosa ski area is famous for its extensive freeride terrain.

Alagna, part of Monterosa, is a mecca for powder hounds. Here, steep chutes and open bowls provide thrilling descents for expert skiers. Guided tours are available for safety.

In the Dolomites, the Marmolada glacier offers exciting off-piste routes. Skiers can hire a guide to explore hidden valleys and untouched powder fields.

La Thuile, on the French border, has great backcountry access. Its location allows for heliskiing trips into both Italian and French territory.

See Related: Sustainable Travel in Italy: Eco-Friendly Destinations and Tips

Essential Tips for a Successful Ski Trip

Monterosa ski area and skiers at Monterosa ski, Valle d'Aosta, Italy
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Proper preparation and know-how can make or break a ski trip in Italy’s beautiful Alps. These tips will help ensure a smooth, enjoyable experience on and off the slopes.

Packing the Right Gear

Top view of an open suitcase filled with warm clothes and ski goggles for winter vacation
Africa Studio / Adobe Stock

Bringing the right equipment is crucial for a comfortable ski trip. A quality ski bag can protect skis during travel.

Warm, waterproof clothing is a must. Layers work best for adjusting to changing temperatures. Don’t forget:

Renting equipment at the resort is an option for those who don’t own gear or want to avoid luggage fees.

Panoramic view of the Madonna di Campiglio ski area and ski lift in Italy
Davide / Adobe Stock

Ski lifts can be tricky for beginners. Here are some tips:

  • Watch others to learn proper techniques
  • Keep ski tips up when getting on and off
  • Hold poles in one hand
  • Don’t wear backpacks on chairlifts
  • Ask the lift operator for help if needed

Some Italian resorts have “magic carpet” lifts for beginners. These moving walkways are easier to use than traditional lifts.

Après-Ski Activities

Panoramic view of the Madonna di Campiglio ski area and skiers in Italy
murmakova / Adobe Stock

After a day on the slopes, Italian resorts offer plenty of ways to relax and socialize. Many skiers enjoy:

  • Soaking in hot tubs or saunas
  • Trying local cuisine at mountain restaurants
  • Sipping hot chocolate or mulled wine by a fireplace
  • Dancing at lively bars or clubs

Some resorts offer night skiing for those who can’t get enough time on the slopes. Others have non-ski activities like ice skating or sledding. Italy hotels often have special après-ski packages that include spa treatments or gourmet dinners.