Places to see snow and ski in Italy

The most aware have probably seen that in recent days a blizzard has covered some of the main Italian cities in white. What is worth noting is that the phenomenon is rare in these places: in the case of Rome, it has not snowed with such intensity since 2012 and, in Naples, it has not seen a flake since 1956. It is also not common to see snow in Florence, just frosts. Chances are higher in northern cities like Milan, which has a few snowy days during winter.

So, if you really want to see white landscapes during your trip to Italy, go at the height of the cold weather, between January and February, and include mountain destinations in your itinerary. Luckily, the country is surrounded by the Alps to the north and bisected by the Apennines, so there's always a peak close at hand. Here are some places to see snow that are close to the most visited Italian cities:

Rome – Monte Livata

The closest ski destination to Rome, Mount Livata is located within a natural park just 1 hours by car from the capital. Those who are not motorized can take a two-part bus trip with Cotral: first to Subiaco and then to Livata. In addition to the tracks that cut through the forest, the station has a park for those who just want to have fun sledding.

Venice – Cortina d'Ampezzo

Probably Italy's most famous and beautiful snow destination, Cortina d'Ampezzo is surrounded by the Dolomites, a mountain range that is a UNESCO Heritage Site. The attractions go far beyond skiing and breathtaking landscapes: the village is charming and structured and in the surroundings there are even snowmobile rides. From Venice it's 2 hours and 20 minutes by car or 2 hours by train to Calalzo di Cadore, from where buses leave for the mountains.

Milan – Piani di Bobbio

There are two great reasons to visit Piani di Bobbio. First, the journey takes only an hour by car from Milan. Second, the station has wide slopes with gentle descents, which is great for those with children or learning to ski. Getting there by public transport is also relatively easy: just take a train to Lecco station and then a bus to Barzio, the base of the mountain.

Florence – Abetone

93 kilometers north of Florence, it is the main point to see snow in abundance in Tuscany. Just take a train to Pistoia and a bus to Abetone, with ski slopes of all levels. Activities also include snowshoeing and sledging. Another highlight is the Val de Luce Resort, which has a four-star spa overlooking the mountains.

Naples–Lacene

The best option to reach Laceno, on the outskirts of Naples, is to take the 1h40 drive by car. Immersed in a forest and overlooking a lake, the station has slopes for all levels of skiers and maintains the white landscape with the help of artificial snow machines.