Stelvio Pass
Italy
One of Europe’s classic alpine drives, the Stelvio Pass links Prato allo Stelvio and Bormio through a dramatic ladder of 48 switchbacks. Expect steep gradients, tight bends, soaring views, and a high-mountain atmosphere that feels especially memorable in clear summer weather.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Prato allo Stelvio
Valley town at the foot of the climb, with orchards, cafes, and a last easy chance to top up fuel.
- Trafoi
Small alpine hamlet on the western approach. The road starts to tighten here, with peaks rising sharply above the valley.
- Three Language Corner
A scenic junction near the pass area where valleys and borders meet. It is a classic photo stop with wide mountain views.
- Stelvio Pass Summit
The high point of the route, surrounded by steep rock and open sky. Expect a busy but unforgettable knot of switchbacks and viewpoints.
- Franzenshöhe
Historic roadside stop above the hairpins. A good place to rest, warm up, and take in the mountain panorama.
- Bormio
Elegant alpine town on the south side of the pass. It is the natural finish point, with thermal baths and plenty of services.
- Bormio Old Town
Stone lanes, churches, and lively piazzas make a relaxed end to the drive. It feels worlds away from the steep climb above.
Where to Eat
- FranzenshöheTyrolean alpine
A classic pass-side stop for soup, strudel, and simple mountain meals. The terrace makes it an easy pause on the climb.
- Pasticceria Caffè GalliCafe, pastries
A popular stop in Bormio for coffee, cakes, and a quick sweet break after the descent. Great for a late-morning refill.
- Ristorante Pizzeria La RasigaItalian, pizza
Casual Bormio dining with hearty pasta and pizza. Useful for a relaxed lunch after the drive.
- Albergo Pirovano RestaurantRegional Italian
A likely mountain-hotel restaurant near Trafoi serving filling alpine dishes. Good if you want a sit-down meal close to the climb.
Things to Do
- Drive the Stelvio Pass hairpinsscenic drive
Tackle the famous 48 switchbacks slowly and enjoy the changing views at each bend. Start early to avoid traffic and buses.
- Viewpoint at the Stelvio Pass summitviewpoint
Stop at the summit for big alpine panoramas and photos of the tightly stacked road below. On clear days, the scale of the climb is striking.
- Orthodox church of Trafoilandmark
A distinctive church in the Trafoi area with a strong alpine setting. It adds a quieter cultural stop before the steepest sections.
- Bormio Termespa
Relax in Bormio’s thermal baths after the drive. It is a perfect reward for a day of switchbacks and mountain air.
Travel advisory
The pass can be closed by snow well outside summer, and traffic is slow on the narrow hairpins. Start early to avoid tour buses and cyclists, and check live road conditions before committing to the summit. Fuel up in the valleys, as services are limited on the climb.