Sestriere, Italy Travel Guide

Discover Sestriere: A year-round destination in Italy's Alps offering world-class skiing, hiking trails, and rich local culture, perfect for adventure and relaxation.

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Sestriere

Nestled in the majestic Alps, Sestriere is a charming town in Italy that beckons to both winter sports enthusiasts and summer adventurers. Known for its world-class ski slopes, Sestriere offers an array of winter activities ranging from skiing and snowboarding to snowshoeing. The town's high altitude ensures excellent snow conditions, making it a favorite destination for snow lovers. When the snow melts, Sestriere transforms into a haven for hikers, bikers, and nature lovers. The surrounding mountains provide stunning trails that offer breathtaking views and a chance to explore the rich alpine flora and fauna. The town itself is quaint and cozy, with a blend of traditional Italian charm and modern amenities. Sestriere also boasts a rich history and culture. Visitors can discover the local heritage through its museums and historical sites. The town's vibrant culinary scene offers delicious Italian cuisine, with local specialties that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you are looking for adventure or relaxation, Sestriere provides an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Italian Alps.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Sestriere.

Visit during the winter months (December to March) for the best skiing conditions.
In summer, explore the hiking and biking trails for incredible mountain views.
Try local dishes like polenta and fondue at traditional Italian eateries.
Check the weather forecast before planning outdoor activities.
Book accommodations early during peak seasons to secure the best options.

Explore Sestriere: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Sestriere

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Via Lattea

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Via Lattea, the ultimate ski resort in the Italian Alps, perfect for winter sports enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

4.3

Diga Del Chisonetto (mt. 2210)

Explore Diga Del Chisonetto in Sestriere, an alpine gem with breathtaking views and outdoor adventures awaiting every visitor.

4.4

The Husky Experience Sestriere

Discover the excitement of dog sledding in Sestriere, Italy, with The Husky Experience, where adventure meets breathtaking alpine beauty.

4.3

Fontana degli Alpini

Explore the stunning Fontana degli Alpini in Sestriere, a breathtaking hiking area nestled in the heart of the Italian Alps, perfect for nature lovers.

4.5

Best landmarks in Sestriere

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Via Lattea

Experience the breathtaking beauty and exhilarating slopes of Via Lattea, the ultimate ski resort destination in the heart of the Italian Alps.

4.3

The Tibetan Bridge

Experience breathtaking views and thrilling adventures at The Tibetan Bridge in Claviere, Italy's premier suspension bridge attraction.

4.7

Olympic Village in Sestriere

Experience the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation at the Olympic Village in Sestriere, your ideal alpine getaway in the heart of the Italian Alps.

3.7

Valle Argentera

Explore Valle Argentera: A breathtaking alpine valley offering stunning landscapes, outdoor adventures, and a taste of authentic Italian culture.

4.7

Best restaurants in Sestriere

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La Cioca

Experience the rich flavors of Northern Italy at La Cioca - your go-to destination for fondue and authentic Italian cuisine.

4.7

Trattoria La Rognosa

Discover authentic Italian flavors at Trattoria La Rognosa in Sestriere – where delicious food meets stunning alpine views.

4.2

Chalet Raggio di Sole

Discover Chalet Raggio di Sole: where exquisite Italian cuisine meets breathtaking alpine views in Sestriere.

4.2

Ristorante Misun La Font

Experience authentic Piedmontese cuisine at Ristorante Misun La Font in Sestriere - a must-visit culinary destination for every tourist.

4.5

Best bars in Sestriere

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La Cioca

Experience the authentic flavors of Northern Italy at La Cioca, where fondue and chophouse delights await in a cozy setting.

4.7

Bar Ristorante Alpette

Experience authentic Italian cuisine in the heart of the Alps at Bar Ristorante Alpette, where every meal is a celebration of local flavors and stunning views.

3.9

I.GLOO Sky Bar and Food

Discover I.GLOO Sky Bar and Food in Sestriere, where breathtaking views meet delightful cuisine in an unforgettable alpine atmosphere.

4.2

Tabata

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Tabata, Sestriere's premier disco club, known for its electrifying atmosphere and unforgettable music.

4.1

Best nightclubs in Sestriere

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I.GLOO Sky Bar and Food

Discover I.GLOO Sky Bar and Food in Sestriere: Where gourmet burgers meet breathtaking alpine views in a vibrant atmosphere.

4.2

Tabata

Discover the ultimate nightlife experience at Tabata, Sestriere's premier disco club, where music and mountain vibes collide.

4.1

#QB#Drink#Food#Coffee

Experience warm hospitality and delicious cuisine at QB Drink Food Coffee in Sestriere, the perfect spot to unwind after exploring the Italian Alps.

4.0

Baraldo

Experience the charm of Baraldo in Sestriere, where cozy ambiance meets delightful drinks and stunning alpine views.

4.0

Best shops in Sestriere

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Market 2035

Discover authentic Italian flavors at Market 2035, a charming grocery store in the heart of Sestriere with local products and delightful culinary offerings.

4.3

Surf Shoppe Sestriere

Explore the Italian Alps with Surf Shoppe Sestriere—your one-stop destination for ski, snowboard, and bicycle rentals.

4.7

La Dolce Vita

Discover the sweet side of Sestriere at La Dolce Vita, where traditional Italian pastries meet alpine charm.

4.6

La Bottega Di Bressan Irma E C. Snc

Explore La Bottega Di Bressan Irma E C. Snc for unique souvenirs and perfumes that capture the alpine charm of Sestriere.

5.0

Explore Sestriere on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Sestriere, mapped for you.

Sestriere Essentials

Sestriere is located in the Piedmont region of Italy, near the French border. The nearest international airports are Turin-Caselle Airport (approximately 100 kilometers away) and Milan Malpensa Airport (roughly 215 kilometers away). From Turin, you can take a train to Oulx-Cesana-Claviere-Sestriere station, which is about 20 kilometers from Sestriere. From there, local buses or taxis can take you to your destination. Alternatively, you can rent a car and drive directly to Sestriere, enjoying the scenic mountain views along the way.
Sestriere is a compact town, and many of its attractions are within walking distance. Local buses connect Sestriere with nearby towns and ski resorts, making it easy to explore the area. Taxis are available but can be more expensive. Renting a car provides the most flexibility, especially for visiting remote areas or traveling according to your own schedule. During the winter season, shuttle services are available to take skiers to the slopes.
The official currency in Italy is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops in Sestriere. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and for tips. ATMs are readily available in Sestriere, so you can withdraw cash as needed. It's always a good idea to inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with card transactions.
Sestriere is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it is wise to take standard precautions. Avoid leaving your belongings unattended and be cautious at night, especially in less crowded areas. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it's always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings. The town is well-patrolled, particularly during the busy ski season.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This is the general emergency number for police, fire, and medical services in Italy. There is a medical clinic in Sestriere that can handle minor health issues, but for more serious conditions, you may need to travel to a larger hospital in Turin. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available in town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress appropriately for the season. In winter, wear warm, layered clothing and waterproof boots. In summer, casual attire is acceptable, but avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local religious customs and traditions. If visiting churches, dress modestly and cover your shoulders. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a polite 'Buongiorno' (Good morning) or 'Buonasera' (Good evening). A handshake is common among men, while women often exchange a light kiss on both cheeks. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't rush your meals; Italians appreciate leisurely dining.
To experience Sestriere like a local, visit the weekly markets where you can buy fresh produce and regional specialties. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about the area's history and culture. Don't miss the chance to explore the surrounding nature trails and take in the breathtaking alpine scenery. For a unique experience, visit during the winter season to enjoy world-class skiing and après-ski activities.

When is the best time to visit Sestriere?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Sestriere

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Sestriere. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloCiao
  [chow]
- GoodbyeArrivederci
  [ah-ree-veh-dehr-chee]
- YesSì
  [see]
- NoNo
  [noh]
- Please/You're welcomePer favore/Prego
  [pehr fah-voh-reh/preh-goh]
- Thank youGrazie
  [graht-zee-eh]
- Excuse me/SorryMi scusi/Scusa
  [mee skoo-zee/skoo-sah]
- How are you?Come stai?
  [koh-meh stah-ee]
- Fine. And you?Bene. E tu?
  [beh-neh. eh too]
- Do you speak English?Parli inglese?
  [pahr-lee een-gleh-zeh]
- I don't understandNon capisco
  [non kah-pee-skoh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseVorrei vedere il menù, per favore
  [vohr-ray veh-deh-reh eel meh-noo pehr fah-voh-reh]
- I don't eat meatNon mangio carne
  [non mahn-joh kahr-neh]
- Cheers!Salute!
  [sah-loo-teh]
- I would like to pay, pleaseVorrei pagare, per favore
  [vohr-ray pah-gah-reh pehr fah-voh-reh]
- Help!Aiuto!
  [ah-yoo-toh]
- Go away!Vai via!
  [vah-ee vee-ah]
- Call the Police!Chiama la polizia!
  [kee-ah-mah lah poh-lee-tsee-ah]
- Call a doctor!Chiama un dottore!
  [kee-ah-mah oon doh-toh-reh]
- I'm lostMi sono perso
  [mee soh-noh pehr-soh]
- I'm illSto male
  [stoh mah-leh]
- I'd like to buy...Vorrei comprare...
  [vohr-ray kohm-prah-reh]
- I'm just lookingSto solo guardando
  [stoh soh-loh gwahr-dahn-doh]
- How much is it?Quanto costa?
  [kwahn-toh koh-stah]
- That's too expensiveÈ troppo caro
  [eh troh-poh kahr-oh]
- Can you lower the price?Puoi abbassare il prezzo?
  [pwah-ee ahb-bahs-sah-reh eel preht-soh]
- What time is it?Che ora è?
  [keh oh-rah eh]
- It's one o'clockÈ l'una in punto
  [eh loo-nah een poon-toh]
- Half past (10)Sono le dieci e mezza
  [soh-noh leh dee-eh-chee eh meh-tzah]
- MorningMattina
  [maht-tee-nah]
- AfternoonPomeriggio
  [poh-meh-ree-joh]
- EveningSera
  [seh-rah]
- YesterdayIeri
  [yeh-ree]
- TodayOggi
  [oh-jee]
- TomorrowDomani
  [doh-mah-nee]
- 1Uno
  [oo-noh]
- 2Due
  [doo-eh]
- 3Tre
  [treh]
- 4Quattro
  [kwah-troh]
- 5Cinque
  [cheen-kweh]
- 6Sei
  [say]
- 7Sette
  [seh-tay]
- 8Otto
  [oh-toh]
- 9Nove
  [noh-veh]
- 10Dieci
  [dee-eh-chee]
- Where's a/the...?Dov'è un/il...?
  [doh-veh oon/eel]
- What's the address?Qual è l'indirizzo?
  [kwahl eh leen-dee-ree-tsoh]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Puoi mostrarmi (sulla mappa)?
  [pwah-ee mohs-trahr-mee soo-lah mahp-pah]
- When's the next (bus)?Quando passa il prossimo (autobus)?
  [kwahn-doh pahs-sah eel prohss-see-moh ow-toh-boos]
- A ticket (to ....)Un biglietto (per ....)
  [oon beel-yet-toh pehr]

History of Sestriere

Sestriere, a picturesque town situated in the Piedmont region of Italy, was established in the 1930s by the Fiat automobile family, the Agnellis. Originally conceived as a mountain resort, it was designed to cater to the winter sports enthusiasts and to bolster the local economy through tourism. The unique architectural style of the town, characterized by its modernist alpine buildings, reflects its origins as a planned resort.
During World War II, Sestriere played a significant role as a strategic location in the Italian Alps. The town and its surrounding areas saw various military operations due to its proximity to the French border. Although it was not a major battleground, the area was crucial for the movement of troops and supplies. Post-war, Sestriere resumed its development as a tourist destination and began to attract international visitors once more.
In the decades following World War II, Sestriere cemented its status as a premier skiing destination. The establishment of the 'Milky Way' ski area, which connects Sestriere with other resorts such as Sauze d'Oulx, Sansicario, and Claviere in Italy, as well as Montgenèvre in France, transformed the town into a hub for winter sports. The extensive network of ski lifts and slopes has made it a favorite among both amateur and professional skiers.
Sestriere gained international recognition when it hosted the Alpine Ski World Cup in 1967. This event marked a significant milestone in the town's history, showcasing its world-class skiing facilities and putting it on the map as a top-tier destination for winter sports. The success of the World Cup paved the way for future international competitions and increased tourist influx.
One of the most significant events in Sestriere's recent history was its role in the 2006 Winter Olympics, hosted by Turin. Sestriere was a key venue for alpine skiing events, and its facilities were extensively upgraded to meet Olympic standards. The influx of athletes, media, and spectators brought global attention to the town, further solidifying its reputation as a premier destination for winter sports.
Beyond its modern history and skiing fame, Sestriere has a rich cultural heritage that is deeply rooted in the traditions of the Piedmont region. The town celebrates various local festivals throughout the year, including the 'Festa della Madonna delle Nevi' in August, which honors the Virgin Mary and includes traditional processions, music, and cuisine. The local culture is also reflected in the artisanal crafts and culinary specialties available in Sestriere, offering visitors a taste of authentic Italian mountain life.