Open
Open during the summer season.
Vehicle access is prohibited for heights greater than 3.30 m and lengths greater than 10 m.
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The Stelvio road, which from Bormio leads into South Tyrol and Switzerland, is the dream of 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 the Val Venosta with the Valtellina to reach Milan, which was then Austrian territory. The project was entrusted to Carlo Donegani (1775-1845), an expert in high mountain engineering. The works began in 1822 with the employment of over 2,500 men among 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 all year round by carriages, thanks to the efficient work of the snowplow operators employed during the winter. During the First World War, it was the scene of clashes between Italians and Austrians, and after the victory on November 4, both sides became Italian: the Pass lost its original meaning of connecting Vienna-Milan, and winter closure was decided. To this day, it is passable in the summer period.
The itinerary
The itinerary is spectacular: 41 switchbacks on the Lombardy 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 of reaching the Santa Maria pass or Umbrail Pass (2,503 m.) which allows entry into Switzerland, directly into the Monastero valley. At the top, the legendary Stelvio Pass (2,758 m.), the highest road 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 determined)
When does the Stelvio Road close?
It typically closes at the end of October/beginning of November (date to be determined)
Is there a fee for the Stelvio road?
No, it is freely accessible
Are there restrictions for certain categories of vehicles?
Yes, on the Bormio side, there is a prohibition of access for vehicles taller than 3.30 m, while on the South Tyrolean side, the prohibition is for vehicles longer than 10.50 m
Do I need to have winter tires or carry snow chains on board?
No, but it is recommended to always carry snow chains due to the Pass's altitude
Can I reach the top of the Stelvio Pass using public transport?
Yes, during the summer, the Perego Bus Company
operates a regular service from Bormio.
From June 9 to September 13, 2026
Monday-Saturday: 5 daily runs
- departure from Bormio: 8:10 a.m.-10:10 a.m.-12:10 p.m.-2:10 p.m.-4:10 p.m.
- departure from Stelvio Pass: 9:50 a.m.-11:05 a.m.-1:05 p.m.-3:05 p.m.-5:05 p.m.
Sunday and holidays: 2 daily runs
- departure from Bormio: 9:10 a.m.-2:10 p.m.
- departure from Stelvio Pass: 12:05 p.m.-5:05 p.m.
Alternatively, it is also possible to reach the Pass from Switzerland with the AutoPostale (the service is guaranteed with prior online reservation) and from South Tyrol via the local transport SAD.
