5 places to ski on a day trip from Milan
Milan has everything, and what it lacks – like ski slopes – is within easy reach. How can you not love this city?
When the urge for a bombardino and a day on the snow calls, the Milanese pack the car, squeeze skis and snowboards into the boot or onto the roof rack, and set off. Why give up on a ski run when in under two hours you can be on a chairlift with skis on your feet? Exactly. If you have not yet figured out where to ski near Milan and still get back in time for that dinner with colleagues you would rather skip, read on.
We have selected four resorts under 140 km from Milan, plus a bonus spot that, while further away, is easily doable in a day thanks to great transport links. Whether you are dreaming of fast descents, snow parks for an adrenaline rush or the indispensable polenta concia, here are our top picks to make the most of your time and treat yourself to a day in the mountains.
Piani di Bobbio
Just 70 km from Milan, Piani di Bobbio takes the crown as the closest ski resort to the city, ideal for a last-minute outing. What makes it the ultimate convenient destination for the Milanese is the Bus Della Neve service, taking you to the slopes in 40 minutes. Yet Piani di Bobbio is not just close: its 35 km of slopes promise great days on the snow, whatever your level. There is no shortage of mountain huts either, where non-skiers can unwind at high altitude while skiers refuel: our favourite is Rifugio Lecco, combining an enviable view with traditional Valsassina dishes.
Mottarone
Set 100 km from Milan between Lago Maggiore and Lago D’Orta, the Mottarone ski resort offers not just a solid snow getaway, but also the chance to take in panoramic views spanning seven lakes. Across its 15 km of slopes, many of us learned to ski thanks to several beginner-friendly runs. There is plenty for seasoned skiers too, including the Trampolino slope and picturesque tree-lined trails. If you were dragged along to the mountains and skiing is not your thing, there is an easy fix: jump on a bobsleigh or settle in for a multi-course lunch at Rifugio Genziana.
Foppolo
Only 104 km separate Foppolo from Milan: set in Val Brembana, it has plenty of hotels, ice-skating rinks and nightlife spots. If you head to the province of Bergamo to strap on your skis, you will find 30 km of runs divided evenly between blue, red and black slopes. For snowboarders, two snow parks offer plenty of room for tricks and jumps, while cross-country skiing enthusiasts can take advantage of a 12 km trail. If you cannot resist the call of polenta (hard to avoid in Bergamo) or fancy stopping for a bombardino, Ristorante K2 is the place for you.
Madesimo
At 139 km, the drive is well worth the chance to spend an entire day skiing. Following recent expansions, Madesimo offers 50 km of slopes and connections to Campodolcino, Motta and Val di Lei. It is ideal for intermediate skiers, though easier runs are available for beginners. Valchiavenna also offers striking mountain landscapes alongside activities like ice skating, ski mountaineering and snowshoeing, not to mention culture and wellness. Baita Del Sole makes an excellent spot for your après-ski.
Pila
Pila is 185 km from Milan, but it is easy to reach by motorway and has convenient parking right at the foot of the slopes. With 15 ski lifts and 70 km of runs, it is a great choice for skiers of every ability, offering trails for both beginners and seasoned pros. Snowboarders are well catered for too, with the AreaEffe snow park providing plenty of thrills. For those who see a day on the slopes as a culinary pursuit (or simply need a lunch stop to recharge) mountain huts along the runs abound, with Hermitage being our personal must-stop.
