Practical guide to reach Aosta Valley by plane
Discover how to reach Aosta Valley by plane with this practical guide.
When I decided to fly to Valle d'Aosta, I didn't expect Turin airport would save my vacation.
I remember that January morning well. I had booked a weekend in Valle d'Aosta, finally some days in the mountains to escape work. I wanted to get there quickly, without losing hours on the highway. So, I chose to fly. But what was supposed to be a simple trip turned into an unexpected adventure.
Choosing the airport: Turin Caselle. When you decide to reach Valle d'Aosta by plane, the first question is always the same: which airport to choose? I opted for Turin Caselle, and I must say it was the right decision.
Turin Caselle is about 115 km from Aosta. It's perfect for those who want to reach the mountains without complications. There are direct buses from the airport to various places in Valle d'Aosta in just over two hours. No complex changes, no stress: hop on the bus and you're already heading to the peaks.
Sure, there's also Milan Malpensa as an alternative. It's a bit farther (about 180 km from Aosta), but it offers many more international flights and often cheaper fares with low-cost airlines. Direct buses to Aosta also leave from there, taking about two and a half hours. Those coming from abroad or looking for good prices often prefer Malpensa. But for convenience and proximity, Turin is unbeatable.
Then there's Geneva. The Swiss airport is about 140 km from Aosta and can be convenient if you find good flight deals. The only downside is you need to change buses in Chamonix. It requires a bit more planning, but it's doable.
The unexpected at Turin airport. I arrive at Turin Caselle, collect my luggage, and as I head to catch the bus to Aosta, I feel an annoying itch on my skin. I think it's just stress, but within minutes, the itch becomes unbearable. An allergic reaction 🙃.
I don't know to what, maybe something in the plane's air conditioning, maybe a product I used that morning. Anyway, I find myself with an unbearable itch on my arm. My first reaction is panic: "Now what? Will I miss the bus? Do I need to rush to the hospital?"
Then I see a sign: "Medical Assistance." I don't hesitate and head to the airport clinic. And that's where my opinion of Turin Caselle forms.
Impeccable healthcare! I walk into the clinic and a very kind person greets me immediately. No endless waiting, no complicated forms. They seat me, and in minutes, I'm already with a doctor. Professional, quick, but above all, human. They explain what's happening, reassure me, give me an ointment, and suggest I wait a few minutes before leaving.
In less than half an hour, I feel better. The itch goes away, and I can catch my bus to Aosta without problems. What seemed like a ruined vacation turned into a normal trip, thanks to the airport medical staff's promptness and competence.
Before leaving, I take a stroll through the airport shops. I didn't expect to find so many services: way more than my usual airport. I stop at +39, a shop making bags, suitcases, wallets, and belts following Tuscan craftsmanship traditions. The products have a truly refined design, showing quality care. I buy a wallet for my wife: a nice gift to bring to Valle d'Aosta with me.
Then I head to the Market Autogrill for a snack. They have everything: sweet and savory snacks, local specialties like sweets, biscuits, pasta, chocolate, and liquors. I pick something to eat during the bus ride. The shop is open from 4:30 AM until the last departing flight, really convenient for any travel time.
Practical tips
If you're thinking of reaching Valle d'Aosta by plane, here are some practical tips based on my experience.
The first thing to consider is whether to rent a car or rely on public transport. I chose car rental, and I must say it was the right decision. If you need freedom of movement, especially to explore side valleys and move without time constraints, a car is the best solution.
The roads to Valle d'Aosta are well connected: from the A5 highway, you can easily reach Aosta and all the region's locations. The only thing to consider is the highway toll cost, which affects the travel budget. But it's worth it for the convenience and speed.
If you prefer public transport, know that reaching Aosta isn't as simple as it seems. The train doesn't go directly to Valle d'Aosta from Turin airport. You first need to reach Torino Porta Nuova, then take a fast regional train to Ivrea, and from there, catch a bus to Aosta. It's doable, sure, but it requires time, patience, and good organization. Multiple changes, station waits, connections to catch: it's not the most comfortable solution, especially if traveling with luggage or short on time.