Italy Ski Resorts

Italy’s ski resorts offer some of the most enchanting mountain experiences in the Alps — from dramatic jagged peaks to world-class cuisine. While predominantly centered in the iconic Dolomites and the Aosta Valley, the Italian Alps also feature the sprawling Milky Way circuit in Piedmont and the high-altitude peaks of Lombardy. Together, these regions form a premier winter destination renowned for its rugged beauty and hospitality.

Italy’s ski resorts are concentrated in four areas, with each area home to multiple ski areas and villages.

In northwest Italy is the Aosta Valley. This area sits on the border between Italy and Switzerland. A highlight experience here is skiing across country borders from Zermatt, Switzerland, to Cervinia, Italy. Skiers will also find panoramic slopes around some of Europe's highest peaks like Mont Blanc, the Matterhorn and Monte Rosa. Much of this area is known for luxury and standout ski resorts include Cervinia, Courmayeur, La Thuile and Champoluc.

Within the Dolomites, there are two core groups of resorts: the Dolomiti Superski and Skirama Dolomiti. The two are about five hours apart and served by different lift tickets, but both feature the range’s iconic jagged peaks and stunning views. Each resort has its own personality, from peaceful retreats to lively hubs.

Dolomiti Superski is the larger of the two, with 12 main resorts and even more villages. Some of its top resorts include Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Alm), Alta Badia, Arabba Marmolada, Cortina d'Ampezzo, 3 Zinnen Dolomites, Val di Fassa and Val Gardena. You can access Dolomiti Superski with Ikon Pass (7 days on the full pass, 5 days on Ikon Base Pass). 

In the Western Dolomites is Skirama. Resorts include Madonna di Campiglio, Pinzolo, Folgarida-Marilleva, Pontedilegno-Tonale, Pejo3000, Paganella Ski, Monte Bondone and Alpe Cimbra: Folgaria-Lavarone. Epic Pass holders can access Skirama. 

Piedmont is bustling with ski areas — more than 45 to be exact. So the terrain feels endless here. Plus, it’s home to the well-known Via Lattea (Milky Way) Olympic circuit. The area has some of Italy’s most affordable ski resorts and towns and caters to all levels. Top resorts include Sauze d'Oulx, Sestriere, Bardonecchia and Limone Piemonte.

Lombardy is also home to a grouping of ski resorts. Depending on how you define a ski area, there are between 20 and 70 areas open for exploration; however, our Experts suggest Bormio, Livigno and Madesimo as highlights to explore. The area is situated in the Italian Alps, and thanks to its high elevation, it has earned a reputation for reliable snow and hosting the World Cup downhill events.

Italy’s ski season opening dates can vary, and in some areas, it’s possible to ski year-round. However, there are some peak times if you’re interested in maximizing snow, sun and scenery. 

Relative to ski resorts like Colorado’s Aspen, France’s Courchevel or Switzerland’s Zermatt, many of Italy’s mountain destinations deliver comparable five-star amenities, like luxury hotels and state-of-the-art ski lifts. The difference is that Italy often offers the same elevated experience at a significantly better value.