Open
Open during the summer season.
No passage for vehicles taller than 3.30 m and longer than 10 m.
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The Stelvio road, which leads from Bormio to South Tyrol and Switzerland, is a dream for those who love motorcycling and 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 to connect Val Venosta with Valtellina to reach Milan, then an Austrian territory. The project was entrusted to Carlo Donegani (1775-1845), an expert in high mountain engineering. The works began in 1822 with more than 2,500 men including workers, engineers, and geologists: after just three years, in 1825, the work was inaugurated in the presence of the emperor himself.
Until 1915, the Stelvio road was used year-round by stagecoaches, thanks to the efficient work of snowplow operators employed during the winter. During World War I, it became a battleground between Italians and Austrians and, after the victory on November 4, both sides became Italian: the Pass lost its original significance of connecting Vienna-Milan and the winter closure was decided. To this day, it is passable in the summer period.
The route
The route is spectacular: 41 hairpin bends on the Lombard side, from Bormio, and 48 on the South Tyrolean side up to Prato allo Stelvio, in Val Venosta. Climbing from Bormio, there is the possibility to reach the Santa Maria saddle or Umbrail Pass (2,503 m.), which allows entry into Switzerland, directly into Val Monastero. At the summit, the legendary Stelvio Pass (2,758 m.), the highest motor pass in Italy and the second in all of Europe.
FAQ
When does the Stelvio Road open?
It typically opens in mid/late May (date to be defined)
When does the Stelvio Road close?
It typically closes in late October/early November (date to be defined)
Is there a fee for the Stelvio Road?
No, it is freely accessible
Are there restrictions for some categories of vehicles?
Yes, on the Bormio side there is a prohibition for vehicles taller than 3.30 m while, on the South Tyrol side, the restriction is for vehicles longer than 10.50 m
Do I need to have winter tires or snow chains in the vehicle?
No, but it is recommended to always have snow chains on board due to the altitude of the Pass
Can I reach the top of Stelvio Pass by public transport?
Yes, in the summer period, the Perego Transport Company operates a service from Bormio.
From June 9 to September 13, 2026
Monday-Saturday: 5 daily trips
- 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 trips
- departure from Bormio: 9.10-14.10
- departure from Stelvio Pass: 12.05-17.05
Alternatively, it is possible to reach the Pass from Switzerland with the AutoPostale (the service is guaranteed upon online reservation) and from South Tyrol via local transportation SAD.
