Italian Alps holidays

How to reach the Italian Alps

Flight time:

• Flights to the Italian Alps from London typically take between 2 hours and 2 hours 30 minutes. Other major UK airports also offer flights to Milan Airport and Turin Airport, the two main terminals serving the region. Once there, you’ll find a range of transport options to take you to your final Alpine destination.

Transfer time:

• From Milan Malpensa or Linate Airport, you can reach popular Alpine towns like Courmayeur, Livigno and Cervinia in about 2 hours to 3 hours 30 minutes by car or shuttle bus. Turin Airport is even closer, with transfers taking between 1 hour 30 minutes and 2 hours to reach main resorts like Sestriere and Sauze d’Oulx.

Price:

• Transfer options vary widely in price. Shuttle buses from Milan to the Alpine resorts cost between €20–€60 per person depending on your destination, while a private transfer or taxi could set you back €150–€250. Train journeys, where available, are also an option and generally cost between €20 and €40.

Best time to visit the Italian Alps

The best time for holidays to the Italian Alps depends on what activities you’re most interested in. From hiking in the rolling green hills to speeding down snow-covered slopes, there’s plenty of fun to be had in Italy’s mountains all year round.

• December to February is the high season for skiing and snowboarding. With temperatures ranging from -5°C to 5°C and snowfall averaging 1–2m, the slopes are in peak condition.

• March to May offers a great balance, with fewer crowds and good snow conditions in the early spring transitioning to lush, blooming landscapes by late spring. Temperatures rise from 0°C to a pleasant 15°C.

• June to August is perfect for hiking, mountain biking and generally enjoying all the outdoor activities the Italian Alps offer. Temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C.

• September to November sees cooler temperatures and the start of the snow season. It’s an ideal time for quieter holidays and autumn colours. Temperatures drop from around 15°C in September to just 5°C in November.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Italian is the official language, but you'll find that many people speak good English, especially in the ski resorts. Having a few basic Italian phrases is always advisable though.

• Local habits and customs: Italians are known for their warm hospitality. Greeting people with a friendly ‘buongiorno’ (good morning) or ‘buonasera’ (good evening) goes a long way.

• Currency: Italy uses the Euro. ATMs are widely available and credit cards accepted in most places, but having some cash on hand for small purchases is a good idea.

• Getting around: The best way to get around the Italian Alps is by car or shuttle bus. Public transport is available but can be limited in more remote areas. If you’re renting a car, be prepared for mountain driving and ensure you have snow chains or specialised tyres in winter.

• Electricity and plug types: The standard voltage is 230V, with type C, F, and L plugs (two or three round pins). UK travellers will need an adaptor.

• Time zone: The Italian Alps are on Central European Time, which is one hour ahead of GMT.

Best things to do in the Italian Alps

The Italian Alps are a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a mix of thrilling activities, charming resort towns and serene natural beauty. Here are some of the best things to do in this stunning region:

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Mont Blanc: The highest peak in the Alps, Mont Blanc offers breathtaking views. You can take a cable car from Courmayeur to Punta Helbronner for an unparalleled panorama of the surrounding peaks and valleys.

• Sella Pass: Located between the Dolomites’ Val Gardena and Val di Fassa, this pass provides stunning vistas. It’s a popular spot for hikers and photographers too.

• Stelvio Pass: Known for its dramatic switchbacks, Stelvio Pass offers incredible views and is a popular route for cyclists and motorists after a challenge.

The best districts

• Val d’Aosta: This region is home to some of the most famous ski resorts, including Courmayeur and Cervinia. It’s also rich in history with both medieval castles and Roman ruins.

• Dolomites: Known for their distinctive pale peaks, the Dolomites are perfect for both winter sports and summer hiking. Towns like Cortina d’Ampezzo are charming and vibrant.

Parks and gardens

• Gran Paradiso National Park: Italy’s oldest national park offers stunning landscapes, wildlife spotting and numerous hiking trails, making it a haven for nature lovers.

• Dolomiti Bellunesi National Park: This park is renowned for its biodiversity and dramatic scenery. It’s an ideal destination for hiking, climbing and exploring the Dolomites’ natural beauty.

Historical monuments

• Fenestrelle Fortress: Located in the Val Chisone, this enormous fort is known as the Great Wall of the Alps. It’s a fascinating site to explore, with guided tours available.

• Sacra di San Michele (Saint Michael's Abbey): This ancient abbey and pilgrimage site perched on a hilltop near Turin offers stunning views and a rich history dating back to the 12th century.

• Castello di Fénis (Fénis Castle): A well-preserved medieval castle in the Aosta Valley known for its beautiful frescoes.

Regional highlights

• Lake Como: Just a short drive from the Alps, Lake Como offers stunning scenery, charming towns and the chance to relax by the water.

• Turin: Known for its baroque architecture, Turin is rich in history and culture. Explore the Royal Palace and Mole Antonelliana, then enjoy some of the best chocolate and coffee in Italy.

• St. Moritz: Hop across the border into Switzerland for a day trip to this luxurious resort town famous for its winter sports and mountain scenery.

Activities for families in the Italian Alps

Italian Alps holidays are fantastic for families, offering a choice of activities that cater to all ages:

• Ski schools: Many resorts offer excellent ski schools for children and beginners. Places like Courmayeur and Livigno have dedicated areas and instructors to help young skiers get started.

• Adventure parks: Summer or winter, adventure parks in the Alps provide fun for the whole family. Try tree-top climbing courses and zip-lining in places like Dolomiti Adventure Park.

• Hiking trails: There are plenty of family-friendly hiking trails in the Italian Alps. The trails around Lake Braies in the Dolomites are particularly stunning and accessible for children.

• Wildlife parks: Visit Parco Faunistico Le Cornelle or Adamello Brenta Nature Park to see local wildlife such as bears, wolves and deer. These parks often have educational programmes and tours suitable for kids.

Free things to do in the Italian Alps

Exploring the Italian Alps doesn’t have to break the bank. There are plenty of low-cost or even free ways to enjoy this beautiful region.

• Free events: Throughout the year, the Italian Alps host a variety of free cultural events and festivals. In winter, you’ll often find free Christmas markets and outdoor concerts in towns like Cortina d’Ampezzo and Courmayeur. During the summer, many villages host traditional festivals celebrating local customs, food and music.

• Free museums: While some attractions may have entry fees, many museums in the Italian Alps offer free admission on certain days. For example, you can visit the Museo Nazionale della Montagna (National Mountain Museum) in Turin for free on the first Sunday of the month.

Nature and outdoor activities

• National parks: The Italian Alps are home to several stunning national parks. Gran Paradiso National Park offers diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife, while the Dolomiti Bellunesi National Park is known for its dramatic scenery and biodiversity.

• Water sports: The lakes and rivers in the Italian Alps are perfect for water sports. To the south, Lake Garda offers sailing, windsurfing and paddleboarding.

• Cycling and mountain biking: The region offers excellent cycling and mountain biking opportunities, such as the famously challenging zigzags of Stelvio Pass. Bike rentals and guided tours are widely available.

• Skiing and snowboarding: In the winter, the Italian Alps transform into winter sports paradise. Resorts like Cervinia, Courmayeur and Livigno offer world-class skiing and snowboarding facilities. From beginners to experts, the slopes cater to all levels.

Local dishes in the Italian Alps

Given the long borders with Switzerland and Austria, it’s perhaps no surprise that food in the Italian Alps blends northern Italy’s traditional fare with influences from Swiss and Austrian tables too. Here are some of the varied and versatile dishes to look out for:

Some typical dishes

• Pizzoccheri: This hearty dish from the Valtellina region consists of buckwheat pasta, potatoes, cabbage and plenty of melted cheese. It’s then topped with a generous helping of garlic and butter.

• Polenta Taragna: A staple in the Alpine regions, this creamy polenta is mixed with buckwheat flour and cheese, making it a rich and satisfying meal – perfect for enjoying after a day on the slopes.

Meat dishes

• Bresaola: Thinly sliced air-dried beef, typically served with a drizzle of olive oil, lemon juice and a sprinkle of pepper. It’s a light but flavourful appetiser or snack.

• Speck: This smoked ham from the South Tyrol region is often enjoyed with bread and cheese or used to flavour pasta dishes and soups.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Lavarello: Also known as whitefish, this delicate freshwater fish from the lakes of the Italian Alps is usually grilled or baked with herbs and lemon.

• Trota: Fresh trout from clear Alpine streams, often grilled or baked then served with seasonal vegetables and a splash of olive oil.

Sweets and desserts

• Strudel: A popular dessert in the Alpine regions, strudel is a pastry filled with apples, raisins and cinnamon. It’s usually served warm with a dusting of powdered sugar.

• Zelten: This traditional fruitcake, typically enjoyed during the Christmas season, is packed with dried fruits, nuts and spices, making it a festive and flavourful treat.

Local drinks

• Grappa: This strong, aromatic spirit made from grape pomace is a popular digestif in the Italian Alps. It’s often enjoyed neat or added to coffee as an extra shot of warmth.

• Vino di Montagna: Mountain wines from regions like Valtellina and Alto Adige are known for their unique flavours, influenced by the high-altitude vineyards.

Sports in the Italian Alps

The Italian Alps offer a thrilling array of sports and outdoor activities, making it a paradise for adventure enthusiasts. Whether you're seeking adrenaline-pumping experiences or tranquil outdoor pursuits, the Alps provide the perfect backdrop for your favourite sports. Here are some popular activities to enjoy during your holiday:

Skiing and Snowboarding

With world-class ski resorts like Cortina d'Ampezzo, Val Gardena, and Livigno, the Italian Alps are a premier destination for skiing and snowboarding. The region boasts a vast network of slopes suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced skiers. Enjoy stunning mountain views as you carve your way down the slopes, and take advantage of après-ski activities in charming alpine villages.

• Highlights:

  • Extensive ski areas and well-groomed pistes

  • Ski schools and rental shops available

Hiking and Trekking

In the warmer months, the Italian Alps transform into a hiker’s paradise. Numerous trails wind through breathtaking landscapes, offering opportunities to explore lush valleys, alpine meadows, and stunning mountain peaks. Iconic hikes, such as the Alta Via and the trails around Lake Braies, provide stunning vistas and a chance to connect with nature.

• Activities:

  • Guided hiking tours for all levels

  • Opportunities for multi-day treks with overnight stays

Mountain Biking

The Italian Alps also cater to mountain biking enthusiasts, with an extensive network of trails suitable for all abilities. From scenic downhill routes to challenging cross-country paths, riders can experience the beauty of the mountains while enjoying an exhilarating ride. Many resorts offer bike rentals and guided tours to help you navigate the best trails.

• Highlights:

  • Varied terrain and stunning landscapes

  • Bike parks with trails for all skill levels

Climbing and Via Ferrata

For those seeking a more adrenaline-fueled adventure, rock climbing and via ferrata routes provide an exciting way to experience the vertical landscapes of the Alps. Via ferrata routes combine hiking with climbing, featuring fixed cables and ladders to help you navigate steep sections safely.

• Activities:

  • Guided climbing experiences for beginners and experts

  • Stunning views from high-altitude routes

Water Sports

In the summer months, the lakes and rivers of the Italian Alps offer a variety of water sports, including kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. Explore the crystal-clear waters of lakes like Lake Garda and Lake Como, where you can enjoy a day on the water surrounded by stunning mountain scenery.

• Highlights:

  • Rental services and guided tours available

  • Ideal for both relaxation and adventure

The Italian Alps provide endless opportunities for sports and outdoor activities, ensuring that every visitor can find their perfect adventure. Whether you’re hitting the slopes in winter or exploring the trails in summer, your holiday in the Italian Alps promises unforgettable experiences and breathtaking scenery.