Open
Open only during the summer season.
The Stelvio road, which from Bormio leads to South Tyrol and Switzerland, is the dream of those who love mountain roads rich in curves.
History of the road
The Stelvio road existed since the Middle Ages, but it was a risky mountain path. In the early 1800s, Emperor Francis I of Austria wanted a new road that could connect Val Venosta with Valtellina to reach Milan, which was then Austrian territory. The project was entrusted to Carlo Donegani (1775-1845), an expert in high mountain engineering. Work began in 1822 with the involvement of over 2,500 men, including workers, engineers, and geologists: just three years later, in 1825, the road was inaugurated in the presence of the emperor himself.
Until 1915, the Stelvio road was used year-round by carriages, thanks to the efficient work of snow plow operators employed during the winter. During the First World War, it was a theater of clashes between Italians and Austrians, and after the victory on November 4, both sides became Italian: the Pass lost its original significance as a connection between Vienna and Milan, and winter closure was decided. To this day, it is passable in the summer period.
Itinerary
The itinerary is spectacular: 41 turns on the Lombard side, from Bormio, and 48 on the South Tyrolean side up to Prato allo Stelvio, in Val Venosta. Climbing from Bormio, it is possible to reach the Umbrail Pass (2,503 m.) or the Santa Maria saddle that allows entry into Switzerland, directly into Val Monastero. At the summit, the mythical Stelvio Pass (2,758 m.) is the highest mountain pass for vehicles in Italy and the second highest in all of Europe.
FAQ
- When does the Stelvio Pass open and close?
The Stelvio Pass is open approximately from late May to early November (dates may vary based on snow weather conditions) - When is it mandatory to install winter tires and/or have snow chains on board?
In the Province of Sondrio, from October 15 to April 30, there is a requirement for snow chains on board and/or winter tires (it is recommended to have both) - Are there restrictions for certain categories of vehicles?
Yes, transit is prohibited for vehicles taller than 3.30 m and longer than 10 m, while on the South Tyrolean side, transit is prohibited for vehicles longer than 10.50 m - Can I reach the top of the Stelvio Pass by public transport?
Yes, during the summer months Automobilistica Perego operates the line from Bormio to the Stelvio Pass while the SAD operates the service on the South Tyrolean side up to Prato allo Stelvio (BZ)
When does the Stelvio Road open?
It opens approximately at mid/late May (date to be defined)
When does the Stelvio Road close?
It closes approximately at the end of October/early November (date to be defined)
Is the Stelvio road subject to a toll?No, it is free access
Are there restrictions for certain categories of vehicles?
Yes, on the Bormio side, transit is prohibited for vehicles taller than 3.30 m
Do I need to install winter tires or have snow chains on board?
No, but it is recommended to always have snow chains given the altitude of the Pass
Can I reach the top of the Stelvio Pass by public transport?
Yes, in the summer period Automobilistica Perego operates a line from Bormio.
From June 9 to September 13, 2026
Monday-Saturday: 5 daily runs
- departure from Bormio: 8.10-10.10-12.10-14.10-16.10
- departure from Stelvio Pass: 9.50-11.05-13.05-15.05-17.05
Sunday and holidays: 2 daily runs
- departure from Bormio: 9.10-14.10
- departure from Stelvio Pass: 12.05-17.05
Alternatively, it is also possible to reach the Pass from Switzerland with the AutoPostale (the service is guaranteed upon online reservation) and from South Tyrol via local transport SAD.
