Overview
The Stelvio Pass, at 2,758 m, is one of the highest paved mountain passes in the Alps and links South Tyrol with Lombardy. Its roads climb in tight hairpins, 48 on the Trafoi side and about 40 on the Bormio side, and the view of the bends from above has become an icon of Alpine road-trips.
The pass lies in Stelvio National Park, with the Ortler, at 3,905 m, the highest peak in South Tyrol, close by. It is a famous target for cyclists and motorcyclists, and the road appears often in the Giro d'Italia. Summer skiing on the Stelvio glacier is possible, and the road is closed by snow for much of the year.
Highlights
- The hairpin bends on the Trafoi side
- The summit viewpoints and views of the Ortler
- Stelvio National Park trails
- Summer skiing on the Stelvio glacier
Best time to visit
The road is normally open from about June to October, when the snow has cleared. July to September is the most reliable. Weather can be changeable, with fog and cold even in summer.
- JanJanuary: Not ideal
- FebFebruary: Not ideal
- MarMarch: Not ideal
- AprApril: Not ideal
- MayMay: Not ideal
- JunJune: Best
- JulJuly: Best
- AugAugust: Best
- SepSeptember: Best
- OctOctober: Good
- NovNovember: Not ideal
- DecDecember: Not ideal
● Best · ○ Good · blank: not ideal. Conditions vary by year, so check local forecasts and access before you go.
Getting there
Fly to Milan (MXP) or Innsbruck (INN) and drive: the pass is about three hours from Milan and two hours from Bolzano. Car and bus services reach both sides in summer. Cyclists often start in Prato allo Stelvio or Bormio.
What to expect
Easy to moderate. Driving is demanding on narrow bends with traffic. Cyclists face a long, steep climb of around 25 km. Take warm clothes, as the pass is cold and windy.
Practical tips
- Check the road opening dates and conditions before you set off.
- Drive with care: hairpins are tight and traffic can be heavy in summer.
- Take a warm jacket, even on a sunny day.
- Cyclists should start early to avoid afternoon storms and heavy traffic.
Frequently asked questions
How many hairpin bends does the Stelvio have?
About 48 on the Trafoi side and around 40 on the Bormio side.
When is the pass open?
Usually from about June to October, depending on snow.
Is it suitable for caravans?
It is narrow and steep with tight bends, so large vehicles may be restricted. Check the rules.
Official sources
Rules, fees, permits and conditions change. Check the official pages below before you travel.
Last reviewed October 2026. Details are for planning only and can change; confirm access, permits and conditions with official sources before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us. Photography: kallerna (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Wikimedia Commons.
