Passo Gardena is set to limit traffic from 2027: what drivers and riders need to know

What is happening

The Autonomous Province of Bolzano (South Tyrol) is working towards a limited traffic zone, the Italian ZTL, on the Passo Gardena between Val Gardena and Val Badia, inside the Dolomites UNESCO World Heritage area. A change to Italy’s highway code in 2024 allows these zones outside towns where the landscape is of ecological importance.

A trial closure had been expected from 1 September 2026. That has not happened. The province has said there will be no physical restrictions in 2026: no barriers, no permits and no fines. Instead it is running a digital test this autumn, simulating different access rules to see how traffic would shift to the neighbouring valleys and passes.

What 2027 could look like

The aim is to have the zone working in summer 2027, run through a digital registration and access system. Different rules are expected for residents, local workers, hotel guests and day visitors, with cars and motorcycles treated the same way. Who gets through, how many, at what times and at what cost has not been decided. The province says it will consult locals and businesses once the test results are in.

• Similar limits have been floated for the Sella, Pordoi and Campolongo passes, but nothing is settled for them.
• This is separate from South Tyrol’s June 2026 ban on organised motoring events above 1,600 metres, which already applies.

What we suggest

For the rest of 2026, plan the Gardena as normal, and remember that the Sella Ronda passes close for set hours on bike days. For summer 2027, do not build a trip around crossing the Gardena at a fixed time until the rules are published. If you are staying in Val Gardena or Val Badia, ask your hotel how guests will be registered. We will update this page when the province publishes the scheme.

Road guides mentioned

• Passo Gardena · Dolomites
• Passo Sella · Dolomites