Where is Livigno? What to see and do in summer and winter

Livigno lies in Lombardy, in the province of Sondrio, at an altitude of 1,816 metres. Nestled in a wide, sun-kissed valley on the Swiss border, it forms part of the historic region of Valtellina.

Discover what to see and do in Livigno, whether you’re visiting in summer or winter.

How to get to Livigno

Here are the main ways to reach Livigno:

• by car from Milan: it takes around four hours to drive, either passing through Sondrio and Bormio or via Tirano and Poschiavo along the scenic Bernina Pass;
• from Switzerland: the Munt La Schera Tunnel connects Livigno with the Swiss village of Zernez and is the most convenient and reliable route, especially during the winter months;
• by train: take the Milan-Tirano line to Tirano, then continue by bus towards Bormio and Livigno;
• By bus or private transfer: daily services operate from Milan, Bergamo, Bormio and St. Moritz, with stops in the heart of the village;
• by air: the closest airports are Milan Malpensa, Bergamo Orio al Serio and Zurich, all connected to Livigno by direct transfers or train-and-bus combinations.

Extra-customs zone: what it means

Livigno is one of the few extra-customs areas in Italy, a privilege granted in the 19th century and confirmed even after Switzerland joined the Schengen Area. This means that a special tax regime applies: VAT and customs duties are not charged on many goods, making shopping particularly advantageous.

However, it is important to be aware of the quantity limits when leaving the duty-free zone, as purchases exceeding these must be declared to either the Swiss or Italian authorities.

Walking through Livigno’s historic center and Via Plan

The heart of Livigno is characterised by traditional Alpine architecture in wood and stone. Via Plan, the main pedestrian street, stretches through the centre, lined with shops, boutiques, perfumeries and cosy cafés, perfect for a pause between one shopping stop and the next.

Alongside major international brands, there are many local craft shops selling handmade goods, wool clothing and sports equipment. In winter, the Christmas lights and markets turn the town centre into a charming fairy-tale setting, while in summer, terraces and outdoor seating bring life to the lively promenade.

What to do in Livigno in summer: treks and walks

Livigno is a prime destination for those who love the mountains even in summer. Its hiking trails stretch for over 150 kilometres and cater to every level of experience. Among the most scenic routes is the path leading to the Federia Valley, perfect for those in search of peace and unspoilt nature.

On two wheels in Livigno

Cycling enthusiasts will find Livignoa true paradise on two wheels. The network of routes dedicated to mountain biking and e-bikes is among the most extensive in Europe, featuring itineraries such as the Flow Trail or the Val Minor Tour, which wind through alpine pastures and breathtaking high-altitude landscapes.

The local bike parks offer downhill and freeride tracks of varying difficulty, with dedicated lifts, equipment hire and riding schools available throughout the season.

Ski lifts, cable cars and scenic trails in Livigno

The Livigno ski area offers more than 115 kilometres of perfectly groomed slopes, served by 31 modern and efficient lifts. During the warmer months, cable cars and chairlifts remain open for hikers and mountain biking enthusiasts, providing the perfect starting point for treks, panoramic routes and scenic photography trails.

MUS! Museum of Livigno and Trepalle

To discover the history of Livigno, a visit to the MUS! – Museum of Livigno and Trepalle, is well worth planning. Housed in a traditional 18th-century Alpine home, the museum tells the story of everyday life in Valtellina through agriculture, pastoralism and age-old customs.

Its rooms display household items, farming tools and oral testimonies that together recount the history of a community accustomed to living in a harsh yet captivating mountain environment.

Lake Livigno

The artificial Lake Livigno, cradled between mountains and forests, is an oasis of peace and quiet. During the summer, visitors can enjoy kayaking, canoeing or stand-up paddleboarding, with equipment available to hire directly on the lakeshore. A scenic cycling and walking path encircles the entire basin, perfect for leisurely strolls or morning runs.

In winter, when the lake freezes over, the landscape takes on a dreamlike beauty and often becomes the backdrop for photography events and sporting competitions.

What to do in winter in Livigno: all the activities

Often referred to as the “Little Tibet of Europe” for its dry climate and heavy snowfall, Livigno boasts a ski season stretching from November to May, with slopes suitable for all abilities, from beginners to seasoned skiers. In addition to alpine skiing, the resort is renowned for its cross-country skiing, offering over 30 kilometres of FIS-approved trails, as well as internationally acclaimed snowparks.

The winter experience is enriched by snowshoe hikes, snowmobile excursions and rejuvenating days spent in cosy Alpine spas.

What to eat in Livigno: traditional specialities

Livigno is also a haven for food lovers, celebrated for its dairy production and artisan cheeses, which can be discovered through tastings and guided tours. Local restaurants and mountain huts serve traditional Valtellina dishes such as pizzoccheri, sciatt and polenta taragna, best enjoyed with a glass of full-bodied red wine like Valtellina Superiore.

Many mountain dairies offer immersive experiences, allowing guests to witness the milking process or take part in cheese-making workshops.

How much does it cost to live in Livigno

According to data updated as of January 2026, the average price of residential properties for sale in the Municipality of Livigno is €7,220 per square meter.

As for rentals, the average price stands at around €19.16 per square meter.

*Article translated by Agnese Giardini