The 8 Best High-Altitude Towns in Italy

Italy’s mountain towns aren’t just about beautiful backdrops and crisp alpine air—they also offer an excellent quality of life. We’ve picked eight of Italy’s high-altitude towns not only for their natural beauty and charm but also for their welcoming communities, cultural appeal, and excellent living standards. With town score quality of life ratings all above 75, they’re some of the best places for expats looking for adventure, tranquillity, and a taste of authentic Italian living. Cortina d’Ampezzo (Dolomites, Veneto) Nicknamed the “Queen of the Dolomites,” Cortina d’Ampezzo is paradise for outdoor lovers. Sitting at 1,224 metres in the Veneto region, it’s famous for world-class skiing, high-end shopping, and some of Italy’s best dining. It’s just two hours from Venice Marco Polo Airport, making travel easy. The expats will find a lively international community, schools in nearby Belluno, and plenty of English-speaking services. Employment: Tourism and hospitality are dominant here, with seasonal jobs in hotels, ski resorts, and the luxury sector. Digital nomads can benefit from good internet services and co-working spaces (here’s one in the center of the city). Best for: Luxury and world-class skiing. Here’s what some locals had to say about the city: “Go there and you’ll understand…