One Of The Most Affordable Ski Resorts In Italy Also Happens To Be One Of The Best

If you're an avid skier, you already know that Italy is a skiing paradise for its unbeatable Alpine slopes. And while the powdered mountains may be world-class, you don't have to break the bank just to experience their terrain. Livigno is one of Italy's best budget-friendly ski destinations that doesn't skimp on quality pistes. The resort is situated near the Swiss border, hours away from the cosmopolitan streets of Milan and the historic sites of Rome. In Livigno, the views are nothing but stunning snow-covered valleys and peaks, begging you to strap on your skis and hit the lifts.

While getting to the resort might not be the easiest journey (there's a network of airports surrounding the area, but they're all at least a few hours away), daily ski passes are a reasonable 63.50 euros for adults (around 70 U.S. dollars, depending on the exchange rate) during the high season and even cheaper during off-peak periods. Junior, youth, and senior skiers are also eligible to receive discounted rates, making Livigno a surprisingly affordable ski destination for the entire family. For the best deals, opt for a multi-day pass. Seven days will cost most adults just 322 euros during mid season, a steal given how much the resort has to offer.

At Livigno, you get a lot of bang for your buck: Skiers can look forward to 100 square kilometers (a whopping 24,711 acres) of skiable area and 115 kilometers (over 71 miles) of ski slope trails. Moreover, there's space for everyone. Cross-country enthusiasts are spoiled with an abundance of terrain, and adrenaline junkies can try their hand at heliskiing, a unique take on the sport that involves a ride up the mountains in — you guessed it — a helicopter. For those looking for a less extreme experience, there are plenty of blue ski slopes ideal for beginner and intermediate mountain athletes. There are also several ski schools at the resort, many with a focus on teaching children how to feel confident on the pistes.

Livigno is also perfect for snowboarders looking for a place to shred — in fact, the resort is set to host both the freestyle skiing and snowboarding competitions during the 2026 Winter Olympics. Given all that the area has to offer, it's not surprising how popular it can be. Expect to run into large teams of skiers training for upcoming competitions, as well as groups of friends and families. The good news is that it never feels too crowded at Livigno, so you won't have to worry about long lines or crashing into other skiers.

Livigno is known for being a skiers' paradise, but with such a large snow-covered area, it also acts as a playground for other winter activities and sports. Ski mountaineering, snowshoeing, fat bike cycling, and snowkarting are all fun and adventurous ways to explore the resort. Prefer an aerial view? Book a "Sky Experience" paragliding session, where you can soar through the mountains alongside a trained professional.

When your legs need a rest, revel in Livigno's après ski scene. For a cozy evening meal, try Kosmo Taste the Mountain, a contemporary restaurant serving dishes made only with local mountain ingredients. For vibrant parties and live music, head to Stalet, where you can grab a meal before dancing the night away.

Another feature of Livigno is its duty-free shopping. Between the ski rentals and outdoor supply shops, you'll find fashion brands, home goods, and other gifts and souvenirs. If you've been looking to buy a new pair of boots or an upgraded laptop, consider snagging it in Livigno's tax-free zone to save money.