Five Italian Ski Resorts to Consider for Your Next Trip

Italy has long been one of Europe’s most exciting ski destinations, offering spectacular mountain scenery, world-class cuisine, reliable snow conditions and charming alpine villages. Whether you’re seeking stylish resorts at family-friendly slopes or high-altitude runs with breathtaking views, Italy’s ski areas deliver.

If you’re planning your next Italy ski holidays, these five resorts stand out for 2025/26, offering a mix of glamour, authenticity and unforgettable skiing experiences.

Cortina d’Ampezzo

Cortina d’Ampezzo is often called the “Queen of the Dolomites,” and for good reason. Surrounded by dramatic limestone peaks, the resort boasts natural beauty with a sophisticated atmosphere. Expect chic boutiques and a touch of old-world charm that remains unmatched in Italy.

The skiing here suits a wide range of abilities, from gentle beginners’ slopes to more advanced runs carved into the Dolomites’ rugged landscape. Investment in infrastructure is elevating the resort’s facilities with Cortina hosting key events in the 2026 Winter Olympics, including faster lifts and improved access routes. The style and exceptional scenery make Cortina an excellent choice for those wanting a memorable winter holiday with a luxurious edge.

Val Gardena (Dolomites) 

Located deep in the Dolomites, Val Gardena is a dream destination for skiers who crave variety. As part of the enormous Dolomiti Superski network, it unlocks access to more than 1,200 kilometres of pistes, making it ideal for those wanting to explore new routes every day. The famous Sella Ronda circuit, which loops around a spectacular mountain massif, is a must-do for confident intermediate skiers.

Val Gardena’s villages (Ortisei, Selva and Santa Cristina) offer a warm, traditional alpine atmosphere with strong Ladin cultural heritage. Think staying in wooden chalets and cosy mountain huts, and sampling excellent regional cuisine.

Madonna di Campiglio 

Madonna di Campiglio is known for its refinement: a beautiful resort with an impressive ski area and a polished après-ski scene. It offers reliable snow conditions and scenic wooded runs accessible via modern lifts, creating a smooth, enjoyable ski experience.

One of Madonna di Campiglio’s strengths is its accessibility. It’s often easier to reach from airports compared with some high-altitude resorts, and it benefits from good road links. It’s a standout option for skiers looking for a full-service resort.

Cervinia (Valle d’Aosta)

Cervinia is hard to beat if snow reliability and vast open runs are at the top of your wishlist. Situated at high altitude in the Valle d’Aosta region, the resort boasts one of the longest ski seasons in Europe, often opening earlier and closing later than its rivals.

Cervinia’s wide, smooth pistes are perfect for intermediates, long-distance cruisers and those who appreciate calm, uncrowded slopes. The resort also links with Zermatt in Switzerland, giving you access to some of Europe’s most iconic mountain scenery, including jaw-dropping views of the Matterhorn.

Courmayeur & Western Alpine Picks

Courmayeur and the western Italian Alps have a unique style of mountain culture. Courmayeur, sitting beneath the mighty Mont Blanc, delivers varied terrain and superb mountain dining (especially at the region’s celebrated rifugios).

The western resorts tend to feel slightly quieter than the Dolomite giants, appealing to those who want a more intimate alpine experience. They’re also well positioned for those arriving from Western Europe, thanks to efficient transport links and shorter transfer times from some airports.