Valle  d'Aosta​

Latest page update: 25 June 2025
By: Dion Protani

Where is

Where is Valle d'Aosta?
Occupying the north-western corner of Italy, bordering France to the west, Switzerland to the north and the Italian region of Piedmont to its south and east, Valle d'Aosta is the smallest in terms of size and least populous of all the Italian regions. 

​Its name, translating simply as the "Aosta Valley" in English, is derived from the Roman settlement of Augusta Prætoria Salassorum which is now Aosta, the regional capital. Over the years, the Augusta part of the name has morphed into Aosta, making this in essence, the "Valley of Augustus", the first Roman emperor.
Regione Autonoma Valle d'Aosta
​Regional capital: Aosta

Population: 123,018 (in 2024 - source)

Size: 3,263 km²

Provinces: 0

Highlights: ​Lys Valley, Breuil-Cervinia, Lago di Place Moulin

What People Ask About Valle d'Aosta

Is Valle d'Aosta worth visiting?
Yes—Valle d'Aosta is worth visiting for its alpine scenery, medieval castles, and ski resorts. Italy’s smallest region offers year-round activities, from winter sports to summer hiking, with a strong blend of Italian and French influences.
What are the main attractions in Valle d'Aosta?
Key sights include the Roman ruins in Aosta, the castles of Fénis and Bard, and ski resorts like Courmayeur and Cervinia. The region is also home to Mont Blanc, the Gran Paradiso National Park, and mountain spas such as Pré-Saint-Didier.
How do I get to Valle d'Aosta?
Valle d'Aosta is accessible by train via Aosta, with connections from Turin and Milan. By car, the A5 motorway links the region to northern Italy, and nearby airports include Turin (about 1h 20m), Milan Malpensa, and Geneva across the border.
What is Valle d'Aosta known for?
Valle d'Aosta is known for its alpine sports, French-Italian bilingual culture, and Roman and medieval heritage. It’s also famous for Fontina cheese, hearty mountain cuisine, and panoramic views of peaks like the Matterhorn and Monte Rosa.
When is the best time to visit Valle d'Aosta?
Winter (December to March) is best for skiing and snow activities, while summer (June to September) is ideal for hiking, mountain biking, and exploring castles. Spring and autumn are quieter but still scenic, especially in the valleys.
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Discover

Discover Valle d'Aosta
The autonomous region of Valle d'Aosta
​Unlike the other 19 official Italian regions, Valle d'Aosta is not split into a series of regional provinces. This is an autonomous region that makes its own laws and has its own regional government.

​There is one similarity with the provinces of the other Italian regions in so much as there are a number of comunes (comuni in Italian) that are governed under the region of Valle d'Aosta, in this case there are 74. The total area of the region is 3,263 km² and the total population currently stands at 125,666.
The capital city: Aosta
The capital of Valle d'Aosta is Aosta itself, the only city in the region and its cultural home. The city is full of Roman monuments including the Arch of Augustus, a Roman Theatre and a city gate named Porta Praetoria. ​
Alpine ski resorts of Valle d'Aosta
​Most visitors are attracted to Valle d'Aosta during the winter when it becomes a popular destination for skiing. It can boast some of the best ski resorts in Italy including Courmayeur and Breuil-Cervinia, as well as two of the world's most famous mountain peaks: the Matterhorn and Monte Bianco (more widely-known by its French version "Mont Blanc"). ​
Castles and fortresses
Valle d'Aosta's geographical position at the confluence of several borders has seen it fought and argued-over throughout its history. Its strategic value has led to an unusually large number of fortifications being built all over its landscape.

​Some of the finest castles in Italy can be seen within Valle d'Aosta's environs including the imposing Fort Bard and the aesthetically-pleasing Castello Savoia among some of the most notable. 
Valley regions
​The latter of those castles, Castello Savoia, is situated in one of the region's smaller valley areas, the Lys Valley. Some of the prettiest villages in the region can be seen here including Gressoney Saint Jean, Lillianes and Fontainemore.

​Further valley regions include the Cogne Valley, part of the Gran Paradiso National Park that Valle d'Aosta shares with Piedmont, and the Valpelline Valley, at the end of which sits the beautiful lake: Lago di Place Moulin. ​
Parks and nature reserves
​This is a region of exceptional natural beauty that can be witnessed all over the valley areas. The Mont Avic Natural Park lies at the end of an incredibly steep, twisting mountain road that will reward your efforts with breathtaking scenery, while the lower reaches of the valley can boast the Marais Nature Reserve and the Parc Animalier d'Introd. ​
The languages spoken in Valle d'Aosta
Those of you with just a keen interest in languages will have noticed the proliferation of French in some of the place names. In fact, both Italian and French are taught in the region's schools, while a third language known as Patois Valdostano is spoken by more than half the population.

​Indeed, many residents of Valle d'Aosta are fluent in all three languages with some of those also able to speak the German dialect that can be heard around the Swiss border towns to the north.

Things to Do

Things to Do in Valle d'Aosta
  • Aosta and the Roman Monuments reflect the region’s ancient past with well-preserved remains such as the Arch of Augustus, Roman theatre, and city walls. The historic centre also includes medieval churches, towers, and the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, all set against a backdrop of Alpine peaks.
  • Courmayeur and the Skyway Monte Bianco sit at the foot of Mont Blanc, offering access to high-altitude scenery and panoramic terraces. The cable car system climbs to Punta Helbronner, where glass platforms overlook glaciers, while Courmayeur itself is a popular base for skiing and mountain walking.
  • Fenestrelle Fortress and Bard Fort are two of the region’s most striking military structures. Fort Bard guards the entrance to the Aosta Valley and houses museums and exhibitions within its ramparts. The Fenestrelle Fortress, although partly in Piedmont, is often visited on cross-regional tours for its scale and setting.
  • Gran Paradiso National Park and Cogne Valley protect Italy’s oldest national park, home to ibex, chamois, and alpine flora. The Cogne Valley provides access to trails through forests and meadows, with routes leading to waterfalls, glacial lakes, and high pastures below the Gran Paradiso peak.
  • Castello di Fénis and the Valley Castles showcase the region’s medieval heritage, with Fénis Castle known for its towers, frescoed chapel, and internal courtyard. Other castles such as Verrès, Issogne, and Sarre are located along the main valley and offer insights into feudal life in the Alps.
  • Monte Rosa and the Gressoney Valley form part of the region’s eastern mountain group, with cable cars to the glacier and views over the Lys Valley. Gressoney-Saint-Jean is known for its Walser cultural heritage, alpine houses, and access to high-altitude hiking and skiing.
  • Pré-Saint-Didier and the Thermal Spa are located near Courmayeur, with hot springs set above a gorge and views of the Mont Blanc massif. The spa facilities include outdoor pools, saunas, and relaxation areas, and the nearby Orrido trail leads to a suspended panoramic walkway.
  • Valpelline and the Bionaz Area offer quieter mountain scenery with traditional villages, alpine lakes, and hiking trails. The Place Moulin Dam near Bionaz creates a long reservoir with scenic walking routes, and the area is also a base for climbing and high-altitude refuges.
  • La Thuile and the Piccolo San Bernardo Pass provide access to skiing, hiking, and cross-border routes to France. The old pass road includes a Roman column and meadows filled with wildflowers in summer, while La Thuile itself has a compact village centre and scenic waterfall nearby.
  • Champorcher and the Mont Avic Natural Park form the southern edge of the region, with larch forests, alpine lakes, and remote trails. The park is less visited than Gran Paradiso but includes mountain huts and circular routes through quiet valleys and granite peaks.
Valle d'Aosta Tours and Activities

Where to Stay

Where to Stay in Valle d'Aosta
  • Auberge de La Maison (Located in Courmayeur, 3 km from the town centre.)
    Nestled at the foot of Mont Blanc, this luxury hotel offers a refined alpine retreat. The property features elegantly appointed rooms, a wellness centre, and a gourmet restaurant with panoramic views. Guests appreciate the exceptional service, serene atmosphere, and proximity to skiing and hiking trails.
  • Hotel Bellevue (Located in Cogne, 2 km from the town centre.)
    Situated in the Gran Paradiso National Park, this charming hotel combines traditional alpine architecture with modern comforts. Amenities include a spa, indoor pool, and a restaurant serving local cuisine. Visitors commend the tranquil setting, attentive staff, and stunning mountain views.
  • Le Massif (Located in Courmayeur, 1.5 km from the town centre.)
    This contemporary hotel offers luxurious accommodations with a focus on sustainability. Features include a spa, rooftop terrace, and a restaurant specializing in regional dishes. Guests highlight the eco-friendly design, exceptional cuisine, and proximity to ski lifts.
  • Chalet Eden Eco Hotel, Restaurant & Wellness (Located in La Thuile, 1 km from the ski lifts.)
    Set amidst the alpine landscape, this eco-friendly hotel offers a blend of comfort and sustainability. The property boasts a spa, restaurant, and rooms with mountain views. Guests appreciate the green initiatives, cozy ambiance, and convenient access to skiing.
  • Hotel Sant'Orso - Mountain Lodge & Spa (Located in Cogne, 1.5 km from the town centre.)
    This boutique hotel offers a luxurious mountain experience with a focus on wellness. Amenities include a spa, restaurant, and rooms featuring traditional alpine decor. Visitors commend the serene environment, high-quality service, and proximity to hiking trails.
  • Hotel Relais Des Glaciers - Adults Only (Located in Champoluc, 0.5 km from the town centre.)
    Exclusively for adults, this hotel provides a tranquil alpine retreat. Features include a spa, restaurant, and rooms with panoramic mountain views. Guests appreciate the peaceful atmosphere, attentive staff, and convenient access to ski slopes.
  • Aethos Monterosa (Located in Champoluc, 1 km from the town centre.)
    This design-focused hotel offers modern accommodations with a touch of alpine charm. Amenities include a spa, restaurant, and rooms with mountain views. Visitors highlight the stylish interiors, excellent cuisine, and proximity to skiing and hiking opportunities.
  • Le Reve Charmant (Located in Aosta, 0.3 km from the town centre.)
    A family-run bed and breakfast offering a cozy and intimate stay. The property features individually decorated rooms and a communal lounge. Guests appreciate the warm hospitality, central location, and value for money.
  • Hotel Bouton d'Or (Located in Courmayeur, 0.8 km from the town centre.)
    This charming hotel offers comfortable accommodations with a traditional alpine feel. Amenities include a sauna, steam room, and rooms with mountain views. Visitors commend the friendly staff, cozy atmosphere, and proximity to ski lifts.
  • Maison Colombot (Located in Aosta, 0.5 km from the town centre.)
    A quaint guesthouse offering a homely stay with personalized service. The property features comfortable rooms and a terrace. Guests appreciate the central location, welcoming hosts, and value for money.

What to Eat

What to Eat in Valle d'Aosta
  • Fonduta valdostana – A rich cheese fondue made with Fontina DOP, egg yolks, milk, and butter, served hot with bread or vegetables. This dish reflects the region’s close ties to nearby Savoy and is especially popular in winter as a warming starter.
  • Polenta concia – Creamy polenta enriched with melted Fontina cheese and butter, sometimes layered or baked until golden. A staple of mountain cooking, it is served with game stews, sausages, or on its own as a satisfying main dish.
  • Carbonada – Beef stew cooked slowly with onions, red wine, and spices, resulting in tender meat and a dark, intense sauce. Traditionally made in the colder months, it is served with polenta and reflects the region’s Alpine and French-influenced heritage.
  • Zuppa valpellinentze – A thick cabbage and bread soup baked with layers of Fontina cheese and rich meat broth until bubbling. Originating from the village of Valpelline, it is a rustic, oven-baked soup made to sustain families through the cold winter.
  • Seuppa à la vapelenentse – A similar variant of the cabbage and Fontina soup, often topped with butter and served piping hot. Prepared in a terracotta dish, it is closely tied to local celebrations and rural home cooking traditions.
  • Tegole valdostane – Thin, crisp almond biscuits shaped like roof tiles, made with hazelnuts, sugar, egg whites, and flour. Originally from Aosta, they are a common souvenir and usually served with coffee or dessert wines.
  • Lardo di Arnad – Cured pork fat seasoned with mountain herbs, garlic, and spices, aged in wooden tubs and sliced thinly. A protected regional speciality, it is often eaten on warm bread or paired with honey and chestnuts as an appetiser.
  • Jambon de Bosses – Air-cured ham from the village of Saint-Rhémy-en-Bosses, spiced and matured at high altitude for a complex flavour. It holds PDO status and is prized for its delicate aroma, often sliced thin and served with rye bread.
  • Chnéfflene – Small flour dumplings similar to spaetzle, cooked in boiling water and served with cream, cheese, or meat sauces. Brought by German-speaking settlers, they reflect the linguistic and cultural mix of the region’s high mountain valleys.
  • Torta di pane – A bread pudding made with stale bread, milk, cocoa, dried fruit, and nuts, baked until firm and served in slices. This dessert reflects the region’s frugal traditions and is often eaten during festive periods or family meals.

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How to Get to [Place Name]

How to Get to Valle d'Aosta
By Rail: Valle d’Aosta is served by Trenitalia regional trains, with the main line running from Ivrea to Aosta and extending to Pré-Saint-Didier. Passengers travelling from Turin or Milan usually change at Chivasso or Ivrea. Journey times are approximately 2 hours from Turin to Aosta and around 3 hours from Milan with one change. Aosta’s station is centrally located, with bus links to nearby ski resorts and mountain villages.

By Road: Valle d’Aosta is well connected by the A5 motorway, which links Turin to Courmayeur, and by the SS26 for local travel through the valley. The drive from Turin to Aosta takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, while from Milan it is around 2 hours via the A4 and A5. The Mont Blanc Tunnel connects Courmayeur with Chamonix in France. Public parking is available in Aosta, Courmayeur, and at various access points for ski areas and hiking trails.

Nearest International Airports:
​
  • Turin Airport (Aeroporto di Torino-Caselle): Located about 115 kilometres south-east of Aosta, the drive takes roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes. It offers domestic and European flights.
  • Milan Malpensa Airport (Aeroporto di Milano Malpensa): Approximately 180 kilometres east of Aosta, reachable in around 2 hours and 30 minutes. It is a major international hub.
  • Geneva Airport (Aéroport de Genève): Situated about 120 kilometres north-west, the drive through the Mont Blanc Tunnel takes around 2 hours. It is a convenient option for visitors from western Europe.
Valle d'Aosta Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations

1. Gran Paradiso National Park
2. Aosta
3. Monte Bianco
4. Breuil-Cervinia
5. ​Matterhorn
6. Courmayeur
7. Fort Bard
8. Castello Savoia
9. Fontainemore
10. Lillianes

​👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Valle d'Aosta
Valle d'Aosta by Category
Archaeological Sites and Museums of Valle d'Aosta
​Castles of Valle d'Aosta
​Natural Sights of Valle d'Aosta
​Orange Flag Towns of Valle d'Aosta
​Parks of Valle d'Aosta
​Things to see in Valle d'Aosta
Top 10 Places to Visit in Valle d'Aosta
Towns of Valle d'Aosta
Valle d'Aosta's Borghi Piu Belli d'Italia
Valley Regions of Valle d'Aosta
Valle d'Aosta Destinations A-Z
Aosta
Aosta Regional Archaeological Museum
Arch of Augustus (Aosta)
​Area Megalitica Saint Martin Corleans
Avise 
Aymavilles
Bard
Bionaz
Breuil-Cervinia
Champdepraz 
Champoluc
Châtillon 
Cogne
​​Cogne Valley
​​Courmayeur
Cretaz
Epinel
Fontainemore
Fort Bard
Fénis
Gaby
Gressoney-Saint-Jean
Hône
Introd
Issime
Issogne Castle
Lillianes
​​Lys Valley
​Marais Nature Reserve
Mont Avic Natural Park
Montjovet
Morgex
Museo dell'Artigianato Valdostano
Nus
Oyace
Parc Animalier d'Introd
Perloz
Pila
Pont-Saint-Martin
Quart Castle
Quart
Roman Theatre of Aosta
Saint-Pierre
Saint-Vincent
Sarre Royal Castle
Ski Resorts of Valle d'Aosta
Valpelline
​​Valpelline Valley
Valtournenche
Verrès Castle
Verrès
Étroubles
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