If you’re looking for paragliding in Italy, you’ll be spoilt for choice. The country is home to some of the best paragliding sites in Europe, with options ranging from the dramatic Dolomites mountain range to the lakes and coasts. Wherever you go, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views and an unparalleled sense of freedom.

Tandem paragliding is a popular way to experience the thrill of flying, and there are plenty of schools throughout Italy where you can learn how to paraglide. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head to Italy for an unforgettable paragliding adventure!

Top 10 Spots for Paragliding in Italy

When most people think of Italy, they think of delicious food, world-renowned art, and fashion that is to die for. What they might not know is that Italy is also one of the best places in the world to go paragliding.

Italy is truly a paraglider’s paradise. The country is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the world, from the snow-capped Alps to the rolling hills of Tuscany. And with such a diverse range of landscapes, there are plenty of opportunities for both novice and experienced paragliders to find the perfect spot to take off. The weather conditions are also ideal for paragliding in Italy, with thermal currents providing lift and strong winds making for fast and exciting flights.

If you’re thinking of giving paragliding a go during your next trip to Italy, then check out our list of the best places to do it. From the Dolomites to Lake Garda and beyond, there are plenty of incredible spots where you can enjoy some truly breathtaking views. And with experienced instructors to help you every step of the way, you’ll be soaring through the skies in no time.

Bassano del Grappa

paragliding in Italy
Bassano del Grappa

Bassano del Grappa is a beautiful city in the Veneto region of Italy, and it is also a popular spot for paragliding. The city is located in the foothills of the Alps, and the climate here is perfect for gliding. There are several take-off points around the city, but the most popular one is just outside the center. From here you’ll enjoy stunning views of the Brenta Dolomites as you glide through the air. The scenery here is truly breathtaking, and it’s no wonder that Bassano del Grappa is such a popular spot for paragliding.

This is the paragliding spot for you if you’re seeking an adrenaline-packed experience. There are plenty of thermal currents to keep you flying, and when combined with strong winds, they create some fast and thrilling flights.

Lado di Garda

Lado di Garda

Lago di Garda is a mecca for paragliders from all over the world. Situated in the lee of the Alps, it benefits from strong, steady thermals and powerful winds. The scenery is also breathtaking, with rocky peaks, rolling hills, and crystal-clear blue waters.

While it’s possible to paraglide all year round, the best time to visit is between April and October when conditions are at their peak. If you’re looking for a more relaxed paragliding experience, then Lake Como is the place for you.

There are several take-off points around the lake, but the most popular one is Monte Baldo. With its gentle thermals and stunning views, it’s the perfect spot for beginners and experienced pilots alike.

Paragliding in the Dolomites 

The Dolomites are a particularly popular destination for paragliders, as the rocky peaks offer a unique challenge. There are several launch sites to choose from, so you can tailor your experience to your level of expertise. If you’re a beginner, opt for a site with a gentle slope and a good landing area. For more experienced paragliders, there are plenty of sites with steeper slopes and more challenging conditions.

There are several great spots for paragliding in the Dolomites, but some of the most popular include Marmolada, Molveno, Seceda, and Col Rodella.

Marmolada

Marmolada

Marmolada is the highest peak in the Dolomites and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The thermals here are strong and reliable, making it an excellent spot for both beginners and experienced paragliders. Beginners can test their skills in the strong thermals near the peak, while experienced paragliders can enjoy the challenge of flying in the weaker thermals higher up. Either way, Marmolada is a great place to enjoy the sport of paragliding in Italy.

Molveno

Molveno

Molveno is a popular paragliding spot for many reasons. First, the scenery is absolutely stunning. The lake is surrounded by mountains, providing a beautiful backdrop for your flight. Second, the thermals here are strong and reliable. That means you can stay up in the air for a long time and really enjoy the experience. If you’re looking for a place to paraglide, Molveno should definitely be on your list.

Seceda

Seceda

Seceda is one of the most popular paragliding spots in the Dolomites. With its impressive views of the surrounding mountains, Seceda is a truly spectacular place to fly. The thermals here can be quite strong, so it’s a great spot for experienced paragliders.

The key to successful paragliding here is to stay high enough to stay in the thermals, but not so high that you get blown away by the wind. It can be a delicate balance, but it’s incredibly exhilarating when you get it right. If you’re looking for a truly breathtaking experience, Seceda is definitely worth a visit.

Col Rodella 

Col Rodella 

If you’re looking for breathtaking views and excellent conditions for paragliding in Italy, then Col Rodella is the place for you. Located in the heart of the Dolomites, this spot offers both beginners and experienced pilots a chance to enjoy some of the best flyings in the area.

The takeoff is located at an altitude of 7,200 feet, and there are several different landing options depending on your level of experience. Best of all, the scenery is simply incredible, with towering peaks and pristine alpine forests stretching as far as the eye can see. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely glide or an adrenaline-filled ride, Col Rodella is sure to give you an unforgettable experience.

Meduno 

Meduno

If you’re looking for a paragliding destination that’s a bit off the beaten path, Meduno in the province of Pordenone is definitely worth checking out. This small town sits at the base of Monte Valinis, and its paragliding takeoff point offers stunning views of both the Julian Alps and the Adriatic Sea.

There are several different landing options available, so you can tailor your experience to your level of comfort. And if you want to take things to the next level, there are even tandem paragliding options available. No matter what you’re looking for, Meduno is sure to have something that will take your breath away.

Vigiljoch

Vigiljoch

Vigiljoch is located in the province of South Tyrol in Italy and offers some of the best paragliding conditions in the country. The takeoff site is situated at an altitude of 2,100 meters, and there are numerous landing options nearby. The area is known for its stable weather conditions, which makes it an ideal destination for both beginner and experienced paragliders. There are several flying schools in the region that provide paragliding instruction. Vigiljoch is a fantastic alternative for individuals seeking to experience some of the finest paragliding in Italy.

Castelluccio

Castelluccio

Castelluccio di Norcia is a small town located in the province of Umbria in central Italy. The town is situated on a high plateau at an altitude of approximately 1450 meters, making it one of the highest paragliding takeoff sites in the country. The area around Castelluccio di Norcia is known for its stunning scenery and beautiful views. 

The best time to fly is early in the morning when the sun is just rising and the air is still cool. The thermals haven’t started to form yet, so you’ll have smooth flying conditions. As the day warms up, the thermals start to form and can make flying more challenging. But if you’re up for a little adventure, flying in the thermals can be a lot of fun.

There are several launch sites near Castelluccio di Norcia, so you can choose a spot that suits your skill level. Whether you’re a novice or an expert pilot, this lovely region of Italy has ideal flying conditions.

Amalfi Coast

Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast is one of the most popular paragliding spots in Italy. With its gentle sea breezes and stunning views, the Amalfi Coast is the perfect place to take to the skies. The best time to paraglide is in the early morning when the air is still and the sun is just beginning to rise over the Mediterranean.

The Amalfi Coast is a great place to fly because there are many take-off and landing options. You can launch from any number of cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean Sea or land in one of the many open fields.

As you float above the coastline, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of whitewashed villages perched atop cliffs, verdant valleys dotted with castles, and azure waters lapping against rocky shores.

Tandem and Paragliding Schools in Italy

If you’re new to paragliding or if you want to brush up on your skills, there are many paragliding schools located throughout Italy. Most of these schools offer tandem paragliding flights as well as instruction for solo paragliders. Tandem flights are a great way to experience paragliding in Italy for the first time because you’ll be attached to an experienced instructor who will do all the work while you enjoy the ride.

Tandem Paragliding Lake Garda

Location: Via Navene Vecchia, 12, 37018 Malcesine VR, Italy 
Phone: +39 347 960 0730
Web: www.paraglidingmalcesine.com

Fly2Fun Tandem Paragliding

Location: Morettino, 37018 Malcesine VR, Italy 
Phone: +39 334 946 9757
Web: www.tandemparagliding.eu

Sicily Paragliding

Location: Lungomare Giuseppe Giardina, 27, 90015 Cefalù PA, Italy
Phone: +39 320 775 4555
Web: www.sicilyparagliding.it

FAQs about Paragliding in Italy

What is the best time of year to paraglide in Italy?

The best time of year to paraglide in Italy is from April to October when the weather is most stable.

Do I need a license to paraglide in Italy?

You do not need a license for paragliding in Italy, but you will need to take a tandem flight with an experienced instructor if you are new to paragliding.

What are the requirements for paragliding in Italy?

Most paragliding schools in Italy have a minimum age requirement of 18 years old for those who want to fly solo.
Many tandem operators and paragliding schools fly with children as young as 4 years old. They usually have special equipment for tandem flights with children. The age limit for passengers is based on both their physical condition and the wind conditions at the take-off site. The passenger must be in the good physical condition and capable of running and accelerating at least 10-15 meters when airborne.

How long can paragliders stay in the air?

The time it takes to fly to a certain destination can vary depending on the region and type of flight. You may expect a journey time of 1-1,5 hours.

What is a thermal? What is the difference between thermal and Panoramic Flight?

Paragliders use thermal updrafts, which are bubbles and tubes of warm air, to gain altitude and extend their flying time. When using thermals, you can circle in the updraft like a bird and rise without expending any more effort. On a panoramic flight, pilots slowly fly down into the valley.