Best Time to Go Skiing in Italy

Knowing the best time to go skiing in a certain region can really make a difference in your ski holiday. The second question is where is the best place to ski? Generally, knowing where to visit during the powder months, busy weeks, ski events, and when it starts to warm up around can be hugely beneficial.

There are plenty of fantastic ski resorts all across the Alps, with many of them being in Italy. Italy has a good reputation for excellent snow and even better food. Skiers can reach several ski resorts in no time from the main airport hubs of Milan, Turin, Verona, and Venice. Some even allow a city and ski break, stopping over in iconic destinations.

You are safe in the knowledge that in each month of the ski season in Italy, it’s possible to ride a lift, send a few turns, and enjoy an Aperol Spritz with a remarkable view. Here is our round-up on the best time to go skiing in Italy.

Skiing in Italy in December

December is a great time to really enjoy the warmth of Italian hospitality. With plenty of merry cheer buzzing around ski resorts, Selva Gardena stands out as one of the best places to visit in this festive period. Part of the Sella Ronda circuit, Selva Gardena is dubbed the Christmas Valley of the Dolomites. The village usually has a dusting of early-season snow and there’s a lovely Christmas market open during the whole month. Peruse the artisan stalls which have beautiful hand-crafted presents, delicious seasonal produce, and of course, mulled wine.

The skiing in Selva Gardena is great in December. The snow is fresh, the lift queues aren’t too busy and the atmosphere is wonderful. There’s direct access to the Dolomiti ski area, with more than 1,200m skiable terrain. The state-of-the-art lift infrastructure will get you around the region in no time.

Skiing in Italy in January

The ski season really kicks off in January. It could be the best time to go skiing in Italy. There is a great base of snow and the forecast tends to have much more on the way. Plus, January tends to be a lot quieter, as the festive events have wound down. The slopes are less busy and the temperatures will have dropped, making it a great time to get your ski fix. Courmayeur is one of our favourites to visit during January. The journey from Geneva is short and the ski resort altitude is high, what more could you want? We haven’t even mentioned the views (which are breathtaking!) – the ski resort is set at the foot of the 4,808m tall Mont Blanc.

Skiing in Italy in February

February is the month of skiing for families, and Italy is renowned for its family-friendly ski resorts. Half-Term skiers flock to ski resorts across the country, creating a lovely, buzzy atmosphere. The weather is great at this time of the year too. The temperatures are still cold but the sun tends to come out in the afternoon, just in time for après.

We recommend visiting Champoluc during February. It’s a fantastic choice and is considered the ‘hidden gem’ of the Aosta Valley ski region. The ski resort is relatively undiscovered by Brits, making it the ideal destination for the busier month of February. Transfer times are only 90 minutes, perfect for families with younger children who get restless. There’s more than 170km of ski terrain and the elevation reaches a mammoth 3,550m, ensuring some great skiing.

Skiing in Italy in March

Longer days are ahead once March rolls around, and for the most part, the slopes tend to be much quieter than February. March is one of the best times to go skiing in Italy. Snow depths have typically hit their peak before the April sunshine arrives. Make the most of the short lift queues and the spring weather when you visit ski resorts in this period.

We think Passo Tonale is a fantastic option for a winter getaway. The altitude is high, the conditions are great, and the scenery is remarkable. The terrain is great for all skill levels, making it ideal for mixed-ability groups. The ski resort is part of the Adamello ski area, linking to the Ponte di Legno, allowing skiers access to both valleys. The lift infrastructure is modern, ensuring quick access to the 130km of slopes.

Skiing in Italy in April

If you want to get some good skiing in in April, aim high. There are several ski resorts with plenty of snow by April, but it’s wise to choose correctly. Whilst some regions have an unexpected powder dump in April, it’s not too common. So we advise to pick a high-altitude ski resort if you choose to go away then. On the plus side, the end-of-season parties are incredibly fun. Ski hard in the morning, until the sun starts to warm up in the afternoon, by then it’s time for a well-earned drink. Or two. Soak up the atmosphere of the bars as they end the season on a high!

Now, if you want an excellent combination of snow-sure skiing and a fun après scene, head to Cervinia. Cervinia sits proudly at 2,050m and reaches an altitude of almost 3,500m, so you’ll be delighted with the conditions in April. The ski resort neighbours Zermatt and is at the foot of the iconic Matterhorn Mountain. The skiing is best suited to beginners and intermediates, however, if you pop across the border, challenging pistes await. The town has plenty of lively bars and restaurants. Park up at one of the lively après bars and enjoy the end-of-season vibes.

To find out more about the best time to go skiing in Italy, call our ski experts on 020 7471 7700.