
Stelvio Pass
A legendary paved mountain pass in the Alps, famous for its 48 hairpin turns and breathtaking panoramic views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light

Stelvio Pass
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A legendary paved mountain pass in the Alps, famous for its 48 hairpin turns and breathtaking panoramic views.
"This place/road is the 'Mecca' for riders. If you ride a motorcycle, don’t hesitate more and just Go."

🚗 Drive Early to Avoid Crowds
Beat the traffic and enjoy the twists and turns with fewer vehicles. Early mornings are best for a serene experience.
🏍️ Motorcycle Mecca
Considered a 'Mecca' for riders, this pass offers an unforgettable motorcycle adventure.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The 48 Hairpin Turns
Northern side of the pass
An iconic serpentine road, offering breathtaking views and a thrilling ride for drivers and cyclists alike.

Summit Views
Top of Stelvio Pass
Panoramic vistas of the surrounding Alps, with cafes and shops offering a welcome respite at the highest point.

Stelvio Bike Day
The entire pass
An annual event where the pass is closed to motorized traffic, allowing cyclists to conquer the legendary climb.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Prepare for the Curves
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive Early to Avoid Crowds
Beat the traffic and enjoy the twists and turns with fewer vehicles. Early mornings are best for a serene experience.
🏍️ Motorcycle Mecca
Considered a 'Mecca' for riders, this pass offers an unforgettable motorcycle adventure.
🚴♀️ Cyclist's Dream Climb
Conquer the 48 hairpins from Prato for a challenging and scenic cycling feat.
☁️ Drive Through the Clouds
Experience a magical moment as you ascend through the clouds for a unique perspective.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive Early to Avoid Crowds
Beat the traffic and enjoy the twists and turns with fewer vehicles. Early mornings are best for a serene experience.
🏍️ Motorcycle Mecca
Considered a 'Mecca' for riders, this pass offers an unforgettable motorcycle adventure.
🚴♀️ Cyclist's Dream Climb
Conquer the 48 hairpins from Prato for a challenging and scenic cycling feat.
☁️ Drive Through the Clouds
Experience a magical moment as you ascend through the clouds for a unique perspective.
⚠️ Be Cautious of Incidents
Be aware of your surroundings; incidents can happen on this busy road.
🧥 Dress for All Weather
Mountain weather is unpredictable; pack layers as temperatures can change rapidly.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Stelvio Pass is overwhelmingly praised for its spectacular mountain views and thrilling, twisty roads, making it a must-visit for adventure seekers, especially motorcyclists and cyclists. Many highlight the unique experience of driving through clouds and the rewarding summit vistas. However, some visitors note that it can get very crowded, and caution is advised due to potential incidents on the busy pass.
"Stelvio Pass is amazing! The roads are twisty and fun, and the views of the mountains are incredible. Totally worth a visit if you love adventure and epic scenery.
Hopefully we can come back on out motorbikes😍"
martine abdul ahad
"I love this road on my motorcycle. I set out at 6am and it was practically deserted. Climbing up at one point you go through the clouds and it was a beautiful new experience for me!! Once you get to the top the view is SPECTACULAR. I rode down again and up again!! The hairpins are lovely, I loved the challenge and will definitely do it again!"
Peter Mifsud
"Went up today and absolutely loved it. My wife was a little anxious but we left early and had the road almost to ourselves. There were of course the early cyclists but not too many cars. A fantastic experience on a motorcycle and my wife absolutely loved it."
Sebastian Jacquin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Stelvio Pass is accessible by car, motorcycle, and bicycle. The most common routes are from Bormio in Lombardy or Prato allo Stelvio in South Tyrol. It's part of the 'Great Dolomite Road' scenic drive.
Stelvio Pass is typically closed during winter months due to heavy snowfall, usually from October/November to May/June. Always check the official opening dates before planning your trip.
Many travelers start from Bormio or Prato allo Stelvio. The climb from Prato is often considered more challenging and scenic for cyclists.
Yes, regular cars can drive on Stelvio Pass. However, some find it less enjoyable for cars compared to motorcycles or bicycles due to traffic and the intense curves.
While often associated with the Dolomites due to its stunning alpine scenery, Stelvio Pass is technically located in the Ortler Alps, bordering the Dolomites region.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entrance fee to drive or cycle on Stelvio Pass itself. However, you may encounter parking fees or costs for services at the summit.
Stelvio Pass is a public road and is generally open 24/7 when weather permits. The main concern is the seasonal closure due to snow.
No, you do not need to book tickets in advance as it's a public road. However, for special events like Stelvio Bike Day, registration might be required.
While generally open to all vehicles, very large RVs or trailers might find maneuvering the tight hairpin turns challenging. Always drive cautiously.
Stelvio Bike Day is typically held on the last Saturday of August. It's a popular event where the pass is closed to motorized traffic.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
At the summit, you'll find souvenir shops, cafes, and restaurants. It's a great spot to take photos, enjoy the views, and rest.
While drivable, some visitors find Stelvio Pass more suited for motorcycles and bicycles due to its extreme curves and potential for traffic.
Every hairpin turn offers a new perspective! The summit provides the most expansive panoramic views of the surrounding Alps.
Yes, there are hiking trails accessible from the pass, offering further exploration of the alpine landscape.
Stelvio Pass is the highest paved mountain road in the Eastern Alps, reaching an altitude of 2,757 meters (9,045 feet).
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography, with fewer crowds and dramatic shadows.
The iconic hairpin turns, the summit with its panoramic views, and the road winding through the mountains are all incredibly photogenic.
Drone regulations vary by region and park. It's advisable to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone.
Popular shots include sweeping aerial views of the serpentine road, close-ups of motorcycles and cars navigating the turns, and cyclists conquering the climb.
The sign at the summit is a classic photo op. Also, capturing the road disappearing into the clouds or the dramatic switchbacks from a distance is highly recommended.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏍️ Motorcycle Enthusiasts
🚴♀️ Dedicated Cyclists
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Driving and Riding the Stelvio Pass
For motorcyclists, the Stelvio Pass is often described as a 'Mecca,' offering an unparalleled riding experience. The sheer number of turns and the dramatic elevation changes provide a constant challenge and reward. Some riders prefer ascending from the Merano side for a different experience. Be mindful of the road's reputation and drive or ride responsibly, as incidents can occur.
Cyclists will find the Stelvio Pass to be one of the most iconic and challenging climbs in Europe. The ascent from Prato allo Stelvio is particularly famous, covering 24.1 km with an average gradient of 7.6%. Events like the Stelvio Bike Day, where the pass is closed to motorized traffic, offer a unique opportunity for cyclists to experience the climb without the usual traffic.
The History and Significance of Stelvio Pass
The pass has a rich history, witnessing various eras and events. It was a crucial route for trade and military purposes. Today, it stands as a symbol of alpine engineering and a premier destination for tourism. The pass celebrated its 200th anniversary, highlighting its enduring legacy and appeal.
Stelvio Pass is not just a road; it's an experience steeped in history and natural beauty. Its status as the highest paved mountain pass in the Eastern Alps adds to its allure, drawing visitors from around the world to witness its grandeur and challenge its curves.
Photography Tips for Stelvio Pass
Consider using a drone for breathtaking aerial shots that showcase the full scale of the pass and its winding path through the Alps. However, always be aware of and adhere to local drone regulations. For ground-level photography, focus on the interplay between the road, vehicles, and the majestic mountain backdrop. Shots of cyclists or motorcyclists navigating the turns can add a dynamic element to your photos.
Don't forget the summit! The panoramic views from the top are spectacular and offer a different perspective. The iconic signpost at the summit is a classic photo opportunity. Experiment with different angles and compositions to capture the unique character of this legendary mountain pass.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit