Italy's Premier Ski Destinations
Italy's northern borders are marked by the majestic Dolomites and the Alps, home to renowned ski resorts with reliable snow from November to April. The Dolomites boast over 1,200 kilometers of trails across 12 ski areas, while the Val d'Aosta and Savoy Alps offer breathtaking runs that span several hours from peak to town. For those driving, a small car rental is advisable.
Italy's ski vacations are generally more affordable than those in neighboring France or Switzerland, and the skiing experience differs, with a relaxed atmosphere and lower ticket prices, making it ideal for families. For more details on the top ski resorts in Italy, continue reading.
1. Cortina d'Ampezzo
Cortina d'Ampezzo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers world-class skiing and stunning scenery. The Dolomiti Superski pass grants access to 11 other resorts in the region. With a mix of beginner, intermediate, and expert runs, Cortina is family-friendly and will host the Winter Olympics in 2026. The town itself is a hub of luxury and style, with a range of accommodations like the Ambra Cortina Hotel.
Official site: https://www.dolomiti.org/en/cortina/
2. Val Gardena
Val Gardena, with 160 kilometers of trails, is part of a vast network offering nearly 400 kilometers of interconnected skiing. It's known for its long ski slope, La Longia, and challenging terrain for advanced skiers. The villages of Ortisei, Santa Cristina, and Selva Val Gardena provide a cozy atmosphere for relaxation after a day on the slopes.
Official site: https://www.valgardena.it
3. Breuil-Cervinia and Valtournenche
In the Val D'Aosta, Breuil-Cervinia offers the unique experience of skiing under the Matterhorn. The resort connects with Zermatt in Switzerland, providing a vast trail system. Valtournenche complements the experience with additional lifts and beginner-friendly terrain.
Official site: https://www.cervinia.it
4. Sestriere and Val Chisone
Sestriere, part of the Via Lattea ski area, offers a variety of trails for all skill levels and is known for its high-altitude snow reliability. The town, while lacking in traditional charm, provides modern amenities and a range of activities.
Official site: https://www.sestriere-online.com
5. Courmayeur
Courmayeur, on Mont Blanc's slopes, is a fashionable destination with superb skiing and breathtaking views. The resort caters to advanced and intermediate skiers, with luxury accommodations and high-end dining.
6. Alta Badia
Alta Badia is a family favorite, offering beginner and intermediate slopes, as well as the challenging Gran Risa slope for the Alpine Ski World Cup. The resort is known for its relaxed atmosphere and beautiful scenery.
Official site: https://www.altabadia.org
7. Madonna di Campiglio
Madonna di Campiglio is renowned for its well-groomed trails and offers a variety of winter activities. The resort is set in the Brenta Dolomites and provides a mix of challenging and intermediate terrain.
Official site: https://www.campiglio.com/
8. Livigno
Livigno is celebrated for its terrain parks and duty-free shopping. The resort offers a range of slopes for all levels and will host events for the 2026 Winter Olympics.
Official site: https://www.ski-livigno.com/
9. Bormio
Bormio features Italy's largest vertical drop and is a favorite for families and intermediate skiers. The town is also known for its thermal spas and will be a venue for the 2026 Winter Olympics.
Official site: https://www.bormioski.eu/en
10. Val di Fassa
Val di Fassa caters to serious skiers with its challenging terrain and access to the Sellaronda circuit. The resort towns of Canazei and Campitello offer a mix of modern and traditional Alpine charm.
Official site: https://www.fassa.com
11. Monterosa
Monterosa Ski is an off-piste paradise with breathtaking views of Europe's tallest peaks. The area is suitable for experts and includes the charming village of Alagna.
Official site: https://www.visitmonterosa.com/en/
12. Alpe di Siusi
Alpe di Siusi offers guaranteed snow with its snowmaking capabilities. The resort is family-friendly and has excellent facilities for snowboarders.
13. Arabba-Marmolada
Arabba-Marmolada is a gateway to several ski areas, including the Marmolada Glacier. The resort is family-oriented with a range of ski-in-ski-out accommodations.
Official site: http://www.skiarabba.com
Ski Resorts for Families
Italy's ski resorts are exceptionally family-friendly, with many offering beginner slopes, childcare, and family accommodations. Resorts like Paso Tonale, La Thuile, and Sauze d'Oulx go the extra mile for families, offering discounted skiing for children, snow parks, and ski schools.
The Best Ski Resorts in Europe and North America
For more skiing adventures, explore top resorts in Switzerland, France, Austria, and the USA. Each region offers unique experiences, from the legendary slopes of Zermatt to the family-friendly resorts of New England.
