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• The Perfect Dolomites Road Trip Itinerary for 5 Days

The Italian Dolomites are not only one of the most beautiful places in Italy but they are one of the most stunning mountain destinations in the whole world.

Jagged peaks, breathtaking viewpoints, emerald alpine lakes, fairy tale towns, amazing hikes, and delicious food – you can have it all in the Dolomites!

This 5 days long Dolomites road trip itinerary will be perfect for you if you want to discover all the beauty the Italian Dolomites have to offer in a short period of time.

* Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link. *

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Table of Contents

Useful Info for Visiting the Dolomites

How to get to the dolomites.

Although the Dolomites are undoubtedly one of the most beautiful dream destinations in the world , getting there is a little bit tricky as there is no dedicated airport in the area.

Since this Dolomites road trip itinerary will require you to have your own car, if you’re planning to arrive from a nearby country it’s best to take your own car and drive to the Dolomites from your home.

We personally arrived from Budapest and even if it was a 9-hour drive it was much better (and cheaper) to have our own car.

If this is not an option for you, there are many airports in the region to choose from. If you’re looking for a bigger international airport, the best option is to arrive at the Marco Polo Airport in Venice, from there you can reach Ortisei (the first base on this Dolomites road trip itinerary) within 3-3.5 hours.

Another great option is the Orio Al Serio Airport in Bergamo or the Malpensa Airport in Milan, it takes 3 hours to get to Ortisei from Bergamo and 4 hours from Milan. If you’re planning to go on a big Northern Italy road trip , you can easily visit all these places in one trip!

Munich Airport in Germany can be another great option, it takes around 3.5-4 hours to reach Ortisei from Munich. If you have more time you can include a few stops in Tyrol and Bavaria as well, like visiting the Neuschwanstein Castle !

The disadvantage of arriving at Munich is that you need to cross the German-Austrian and the Austrian-Italian border in order to get to the Dolomites and with a rental car it’s not the easiest thing to do.

There are a couple of other smaller airports in the area, like Treviso Airport, Valerio Catullo Airport in Verona, or Bolzano Airport so it’s worth taking a look at them as well.

No matter which airport you arrive at, you will need to rent a car for your Dolomites road trip. I recommend Discover Cars to check the best offers and availability!

Best time to visit the Dolomites

The best time to visit the Dolomites entirely depends on your personal preferences. Although each season has its own charm, for the sake of this Dolomites road trip itinerary I recommend visiting the Dolomites from the end of May until the end of September.

The simple reason is that before or after this the mountains are usually covered with snow and many hiking trails are not accessible anymore. Don’t get me wrong, visiting the Dolomites in winter is still a great idea, just not so much for a road trip!

If you want to avoid the crowds, the best is to visit either in early June or the middle of September. We personally visited in the middle of September and we had the best weather, but of course, it can change from year to year.

All the photos you can see in this article were taken in the middle of September so you can have an idea about what the area looks like around this time.

How much time to spend in the Dolomites

As much as you can! Seriously, the whole area is so gorgeous that you will not believe your own eyes.

As a first-timer, I recommend spending at least 4-5 days in the Dolomites. This will give you enough time to visit the must-see sights such as Alpe di Siusi, Lago di Braies or Tre Cime di Lavaredo.

There are countless amazing hikes in the Dolomites so if you’re an outdoor person and you love hikes, you can even spend weeks in the Dolomites without getting bored.

I’d say the perfect amount of time would be between 1 or 2 weeks but I understand that not everyone has that much time for a mountain vacation.

That’s why I created this 5 day Dolomites road trip itinerary so you could visit all the best places in the Dolomites in just a short period of time.

Overview of Your 5 Day Dolomites Itinerary

Below you can see an overview of your Dolomites itinerary with the highlights that you should visit on each day. For the first two nights, you will stay in Ortisei and you’re going to visit Lago di Carezza, Val di Funes, Alpe di Siusi, and the Seceda ridgeline.

La Villa or Cortina d’Ampezzo will be your base for the second part of your Dolomites road trip, from where you can visit some amazing alpine lakes such as Lago di Braies and Lago di Limides and you can also visit Tre Cime di Lavaredo.

Breakdown of your Dolomites itinerary

• Day 1 : Visiting Lago di Carezza and arriving to Ortisei
• Day 2 : Visiting the Santa Maddalena church and the church of Saint John in Val di Funes, seeing the sunset in Alpe di Siusi
• Day 3 : Hiking at the Seceda ridgeline, driving through Passo Gardena, and arriving at La Villa or Cortina d’Ampezzo
• Day 4 : Renting a boat at Lago di Braies, hiking to Lago di Limides and visiting Lago di Valparola
• Day 5 : Hiking around Tre Cime di Lavaredo, hiking to Cadini di Misurina

Map for your Dolomites road trip

Below you can find a customized map that includes all the locations you will need for this Dolomites itinerary. Nearby airports, parking spots, interesting sights, viewpoints, literally everything!

If you open up this post on your phone and you click on the bracket in the upper right corner of the map, it will open up in your Google Maps app so you can always have it with you.

Day 1 of Your Dolomites Road Trip

The first day of your Dolomites road trip itinerary is all about arriving at the Dolomites and settling in your chosen accommodation in Ortisei/St. Ulrich, which is going to be your base for the next few days.

Fun fact: Did you know that there are three official languages spoken in the Dolomites? That’s the reason why you see multiple names for one place!

Usually, every place has a name in Italian and in German (even on the road signs and maps), and sometimes in Ladin. That’s why you will see names like Ortisei/St. Ulrich, Alpe di Siusi/Seiser Alm, Lago di Braies/Pragser Wildsee and so on. But back to the main topic!

If you’re planning to arrive in Italy by plane, it can take you anywhere from 1.5 hours to 4 hours to get to the Dolomites, depending on which airport you arrive at. However, if you’re driving from another European country, such as Germany or Austria, it might take you even longer to arrive at the Dolomites.

For more details about how to get to the Dolomites, please refer back to the beginning of the article!

Since you can arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon, for the sake of this Dolomites itinerary we’re gonna take the first day easy and you will only have one stop before arriving at your hotel.

Of course, if you have more time, feel free to add some additional stops to the first day of your Dolomites road trip itinerary!

Lago di Carezza

Instead of heading straight to your hotel in Ortisei/St. Ulrich, first make a stop at Lago di Carezza/Karersee!

If you’re coming from either Venice or Bergamo, it’s only an extra 30 minutes (23 km) to get to the lake but if you’re coming from Innsbruck or Munich, you will need to drive an extra hour (45 km) to arrive at Lago di Carezza.

Nestled in the Val d’Ega valley, Lago di Carezza is often referred to as the ‘Rainbow Lake’ thanks to its impressive colors. Legend has it that once upon a time, there was a beautiful mermaid living the lake with whom a wizard deeply fall in love but the mermaid was impossible to win over.

In order to seduce her, with the help of a local witch, the wizard came up with a plan to throw a rainbow from the mountains to the lake and disguise himself as a jewelry salesman.

The wizard indeed stretched a rainbow but he forgot to dress up so the mermaid immediately recognized him and disappeared into the water forever.

The wizard got so angry that he ended up smashing the rainbow into million pieces and throwing it into the lake, where they still continue to shine to this day. Interesting story, right?

Rainbow colors or not, the emerald green alpine lake is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful lakes in the Dolomites and since it’s easily accessible, it’s a must-stop on everyone’s Dolomites itinerary.

There is a parking lot close to the lake where you can leave the car and then walk a few minutes to get to the lake. Parking is free for the first 15 minutes, then it’s €1 for 1 hour, €2 for 2 hours, and €4 for 6 hours.

There is a wooden viewing platform at the entrance of the lake where you can also learn more about the history of the lake, such as the destructive storm that struck in 2018, destroying more than 5,000 hectares of forest just in the South Tyrol region alone.

After that you can walk along the loop trail that goes around the lake, it takes around 20-25 minutes to complete it.

Although it’s undoubtedly one of the best photography spots in the Dolomites, it’s important to know that the whole lake is fenced off and it’s not possible to get close to the water.

That being said, I still keep seeing many photos on Instagram where people are standing or sitting on a rock, right by the lake.

Please be respectful and don’t break the rules just for the sake of a photo, you can take amazing photos by staying out of the fenced area as well!

Arriving to Ortisei

After visiting Lago di Carezza and taking a million photos of the beautiful scenery, it’s time to head to Ortisei/St. Ulrich that will be your base for the following days. From Lago di Carezza, it takes around 1 hour (55 km) to reach Ortisei at a normal pace.

Located right in the center of Dolomites Val Gardena, the charming little town of Ortisei is mostly famous for its hand-made wooden sculptures. The local woodcarver families kept the tradition alive to this very day!

Ortisei is one of the best places to stay in the Dolomites and hence very popular among travelers, thanks to being super close to the Seceda ridgeline and Alpe di Siusi/Seiser Alm. More about them later!

If you have some more time on the first day of your Dolomites road trip, it’s worth taking a stroll in the town and seeing the traditional hotels and gorgeous residential buildings.

A must-visit place is the pedestrian area between the chapel of Saint Ulrich and the Antonius Church which is often described as the most beautiful shopping street in the Dolomites.

In order to follow this Dolomites road trip itinerary, I recommend spending your first 2 nights in Ortisei. We personally stayed at Hotel Angelo Engel which is a 4-star family-run hotel with a large private garden, an indoor and outdoor pool, and an excellent SPA & beauty farm (pictured below).

We had an amazing time there and I can totally recommend this hotel for anyone! You can check the prices and availability here.

If you’re looking for something else or there is no availability at the hotel on your preferred dates, you can find some more recommendations below.

Luxury:  Adler Spa Resort Dolomiti  | Alpin Garden Luxury Maison

Mid-range: Hotel Pinei |  Apartments Villa Venezia Luxury

Budget:  Villa Moroder  | Sule Hof Agriturismo

Day 2 of Your Dolomites Road Trip

Santa maddalena church.

On the second day of your Dolomites road trip head over to Val di Funes in the morning where you can visit two of the most beautiful churches in the Dolomites.

It takes around 45 minutes (35 km) to reach the town of Santa Maddalena from Ortisei and the first church of your day will be the Santa Maddalena church.

This picturesque little church with the Odle mountains in the background is the symbol of Val di Funes and it’s one of the most photographed places in the entire Dolomites.

It’s important to know that you can’t drive up to the church so you need to park your car in the center of the town. There are multiple parking spots in the city, I marked them on the map I shared at the beginning of the article so please refer back for the exact locations!

In order to get to the famous viewpoint, you need to hike for around 20 minutes but it’s a very easy hike, basically, you just need to walk up to the hill across the church.

Search for ‘ Panchina Panoramica ‘ on Google Maps and I’m sure you will find it easily! After that you can visit the church inside if you want, it’s open daily and it features a beautiful Baroque style altar and interesting wall paintings.

Church of St. John in Ranui

The second church of the day is the church of St. John in Ranui, which is another small little Baroque church with an insanely beautiful background.

It takes around 30 minutes to reach it from Santa Maddalena on foot, but if you’re feeling lazy you can go back to your car first and park in a closer parking spot from where you only need to walk 5-10 minutes to get to the church.

There is a built wooden viewing platform close to the parking lot and it’s an amazing place to take photos of the church with the mountains in the background.

The church itself can be also visited for €4 per person and it can be booked for small events and weddings as well.

Sunset at Alpe di Siusi

After visiting the two churches in Val di Funes it’s time to head over to probably the most famous place in the Dolomites: Alpe di Siusi/Seiser Alm!

It’s important to know that driving there is strictly prohibited and if you don’t want to get fined hundreds of euros, you need to follow the rules.

Alpe di Siusi is the largest mountain plateau in Europe and it grants amazing views over the peaks of Sasso Lungo, Sasso Piatto, and Sciliar. It’s a must-visit on every Dolomites road trip itinerary!

You have basically three options for getting there. You can book a hotel for the night, in this case, you are allowed to drive up in your car but only until you reach your hotel (no further) and you can only do it once on the day you arrive.

There are only a handful of hotels at Alpe di Siusi, these two are the closest ones to the famous viewpoint (pictured below): Hotel Icaro***S  and  Sporthotel Sonne .

From Ortisei you can take a cable car to get up to Alpe di Siusi, a one-way ticket costs €16.90 while a round-trip ticket costs €24.90.

The cable car runs from 8.30 am usually till 6 pm which is great if you want to visit during the day, but unfortunately, it’s not good for sunrise or sunset visits. The opening hours vary depending on the season, you can check the exact timetable on their official website .

If you want to visit for sunrise or sunset, the best thing you can do is to drive up to Compatsch and leave your car at the P2 parking lot (I marked it on the map that you can find at the beginning of the article).

You can’t drive up on the road between 9 am and 5 pm without getting a big fat check but if you go earlier or later it’s going to be fine.

After you left the car in the parking lot, you need to hike for around 1 hour to get to the famous viewpoint (pictured above).

I marked the coordinates on the map at the beginning of the article but if you search for ‘ Belvedere dell’ Alpe di Siusi ‘ on Google Maps you will also find it. The hike is super easy, it’s mostly flat and the views along the way are simply breathtaking.

If you have a little extra time before sunset, before reaching the viewpoint turn right and hike down to the ‘ Malga Sanon ‘ restaurant.

You will find a tiny playground in front of the restaurant with a swing, it’s so much fun to take photos there, not to mention the insanely gorgeous background!

Day 3 of Your Dolomites Road Trip

Since this is already the third day of your Dolomites road trip itinerary, you will need to check out from your hotel in Ortisei and move to another one either in La Villa or Cortina d’Ampezzo (more about this later).

But before that, it’s time to go up to the Seceda ridgeline and do a little hiking there!

Since the cable cars run from Ortisei, it’s best to check out from your hotel in the morning, leave your luggage in the car and go up to Seceda. After you’re done with the hike, you will still have time to drive to your other hotel and check out Passo Gardena on the way.

Hiking at Seceda

As I mentioned, the cable cars going up to Seceda run from Ortisei. In case you can’t leave your car at the parking of the hotel after you’ve checked out, there is a big parking lot at the cable car station as well.

A round-trip ticket for the cable car costs €39,50 per person and it operates between 8.30 am and 5.30 pm.

Located in the Puez Odle Nature Park, Seceda has one of the most dramatic ridgelines in the Dolomites with jagged peaks and huge drop-offs.

Once you’re up there, there are countless hiking trails and it only depends on your preference which one you take. If you have time, you can even hike all the way down to Ortisei as well!

Whichever you choose, walking along the ridgeline is a must when visiting Seceda. After you’ve arrived with the cable car, turn left and start walking uphill! There is even a sign on the road pointing to the viewpoint, you simply can’t miss it.

If you’re not much of a hiker, you can go back to the cable car station after you soaked in all the views, but if you’re up for a little exercise, you can hike down to the meadow to Baita Troier Hütte (they have amazing apple pies!).

From there you can either continue your hike to Pieralongia (twin spires – they kinda look like the rocks from Lion King) and then Rifugio Firenze, or you can just go back to the cable car station. Totally up to you!

Passo Gardena

Passo Gardena (Gardena Pass) is a super scenic mountain pass connecting Val Gardena with Val Badia.

Since you’re going to drive in the direction of La Villa/Cortina d’Ampezzo from Ortisei, you will drive through it anyway and since you’re already there, it’s worth stopping for a few minutes to soak in the views.

There is a small hütte called Rifugio Frara where you can park your car and from there you can walk up to the viewpoint (it only takes a few minutes to reach it).

Actually, this is a start of an 11.5 km long like but since it’s a very difficult hike, I wouldn’t recommend it to first-timers (we didn’t do it either).

It’s worth scheduling your arrival to Passo Gardena half an hour before sunset, this way you will be able to see the scenery during golden hour, which is super beautiful!

Arriving to La Villa or Cortina d’Ampezzo

For the second half of your Dolomites road trip itinerary, I recommend staying at another hotel either in La Villa, Cortina d’Ampezzo, or one of the nearby towns.

The simple reason is that the places you’re going to visit on the rest of your Dolomites trip are too far away from Ortisei and it doesn’t make sense to stay there and drive countless hours to reach these sights.

Although Cortina d’Ampezzo is the most popular choice among travelers, we decided to stay at Hotel La Majun in La Villa/Stern and absolutely loved the hotel!

It’s a 4-star family-operated hotel and what makes it even more special is that the owners actually live in the hotel and their mission is to make you feel at home too.

The hospitality was exceptional and the panoramic view from the hotel is simply breathtaking (pictured below). You can check the prices and availability here .

If you’re looking for something else or there is no availability at the hotel on your preferred dates, you can find some more recommendations below, both for La Villa and Cortina d’Ampezzo.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN LA VILLA

Luxury:  Hotel Cristallo – Wellness Mountain Living  | Dolomites Wellness Hotel Savoy

Mid-range:  Boutique Hotel Dolomit  | Hotel Des Alpes

Budget:  Casa Nives | Garni La Ciasota

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN CORTINA D’AMPEZZO

Luxury:  Rosapetra SPA Resort  | Dolomiti Lodge Alverà

Mid-range:  Boutique Hotel Villa Blu Cortina  | Hotel Villa Alpina ***S

Budget:  Hotel Meuble Oasi  | Ciasa Nonna Bon Bon

Day 4 of Your Dolomites Road Trip

Lago di braies.

Start the fourth day of your Dolomites road trip itinerary by visiting the most famous lake in the Dolomites: Lago di Braies/Pragser Wildsee. It’s a very picturesque alpine-like with turquoise-green colored waters and a beautiful mountain panorama.

It’s the perfect place for nature lovers and hikers but unfortunately due to its fame it usually gets insanely crowded during the day so try to plan an early morning visit to be able to enjoy the lake by yourself.

It takes around 1 hour 10 minutes (60 km) to get to Lago di Braies from La Villa, while it’s only 50 minutes (46 km) from Cortina d’Ampezzo.

There are 3 different parking lots close to the lake and although they are big, they can fill up really quickly (especially the closest one) so I can’t stress enough how important it is to get to the lake early.

Chances are that around 9-10 am you will not be able to find a free parking spot at all!

The best things to do at Lago di Braies include renting a rowboat from the boathouse and slowly paddling across the turquoise water and then walking around the lake which takes around 1-2 hours (the distance is 4 km).

The boathouse is open between 8 am – 7 pm pm in July and August, while it’s only open from 9 am to 5 pm between the end of May and the end of June. It opens at 10 am from the beginning of September until the beginning of November. A boat rental costs €25 for 30 minutes and €35 for 60 minutes, reservation in advance is not possible.

What you need to know about photography at the lake

I’m sure you’ve already seen many photos on Instagram, mostly where people are standing on a little pier, surrounded by wooden boats and a stunning reflection on the lake.

What most people don’t disclose is that the pier belongs to a private boathouse and you can’t access it unless you rent the pier for a photoshoot or rent a boat from the boathouse when they are open.

The boat rental only starts later in the day so even if you rent a boat, you will not be able to shoot a picture with reflections and a calm lake. Not to mention that people will be already lining up behind you and you will not have the time to take many photos.

So if you desperately want to have a similar picture (you can see an example here ), your only option is to rent the pier for a morning photo shoot. It costs €150 for one hour, you can find  more information about the rental here .

That being said, I’ve heard stories that many people choose to trespass early in the morning when the boathouse is still closed. But in order to do that, you need to wade through the ice-cold water and then climb onto one of the boats, and then jump from boat to boat until you reach the pier.

Yes, I know, this sounds super crazy and it’s clearly not an example to be followed (please don’t do stupid and illegal stuff like this for a photo).

If you don’t want to rent the pier, you can still get a photo of it if you rent a boat. It won’t be so perfect like the photos you see on Instagram but it’s still beautiful! And this way you can shoot some pictures in the boat as well (see my pictures below).

Lago di Limides

In the afternoon head over to Lago di Limides, which is one of the best hidden gems in the Dolomites. It’s a super picturesque little lake with insane panoramic views and reflections of the surrounding mountains (Mount Lagazuoi and Tofana di Rozes).

I still don’t understand why is it so overlooked by visitors but it just adds to its charm and you can basically have the lake all to yourself in the middle of the day!

In order to reach Lago di Limides, you need to drive to Rifugio Col Gallina and leave your car in the parking lot across the street.

It takes around 1 hour 15 minutes (62 km) to get there from Lago di Braies and the road goes through Cortina d’Ampezzo so if you’re not staying there and want to check out the town, you can include a short stop there.

After you park your car, you need to hike for around 25-30 minutes to reach the lake. Don’t worry, it’s a fairly easy hike (the distance is around 2 km) but the trails are not the best and you basically need to hike uphill almost all the way so wear proper shoes!

It can get slippery and muddy after rain so it’s best to visit when the weather is dry and it hasn’t rained in the last couple of days.

Lago di Valparola

The last stop of the day will be Lago di Valparola, which is a tiny alpine lake located on the top of Passo Valparola (Valparola Pass), not so far away from Rifugio Col Gallina (where you parked the car before going to Lago di Limides).

It’s like a 5-minute drive (3 km) in the direction of La Villa so if you’re staying there, you’re going to drive by it anyway.

There are parking lots on both ends of the lake where you can leave your car to check out the lake and the surrounding panorama.

The lake is visible from the main road but it’s also easily accessible from the road, it takes around 5 minutes to reach it by taking path nr. 24 that goes down to the lake.

Day 5 of Your Dolomites Road Trip

Hiking around tre cime di lavaredo.

The Tre Cime de Lavaredo loop hike is one of the best hikes in the Dolomites and no Dolomites itinerary is really complete without seeing the iconic three peaks.

The entire loop is around 10 km (6.5 miles) and since it’s a fairly easy hike, it’s accessible to almost everyone.

Usually, it takes around 3-4 hours to complete the loop, we personally did it in 3.5 hours with a few photo stops (half an hour break at Dreizinnenhütte is not included).

The hike starts and finishes at Rifugio Auronzo, where you can find multiple parking lots (you can even spend the night there in a camper). Unfortunately, there is only one road leading up to Rifugio Auronzo and since it’s a private road, you need to pay €30 to use it with a normal car.

Try to go early in the morning because later on when the parking lot is full they can close the road and you will have no other option to get up there (apart from a quite strenuous hike).

It takes around 1.5 hours (55 km/35 miles) to get to Rifugio Auronzo from La Villa and 40 minutes (22 km/14 miles) from Cortina d’Ampezzo.

It’s a very straightforward hike, you can’t really go in the wrong direction. The best is to do the hike counterclockwise and start by walking in the direction of Rifugio Lavaredo.

This part is the easiest one as it’s mostly flat, after that you will need to walk uphill so it gets a little more difficult.

The next checkpoint is the Dreizinnenhütte (Rifugio A. Locatelli) where you can find two lakes and a couple of caves as well.

The hardest part comes after this, as you need to descend to the valley, just to walk up on a hill again. It’s still not a hard trail but due to the elevation gain, it’s a bit more difficult.

The last checkpoint is Malga Langalm, after that the route heads uphill again, and not long after you will already see Rifugio Auronzo, from where you started the hike.

All in all, completing the Tre Cime di Lavaredo hike is a must on every Dolomites road trip itinerary! It’s a fairly popular hike due to the insane views so it usually gets busy during the day so try to arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds.

If you want to know more about the trails, check out my step-by-step guide about the Tre Cime di Lavaredo hike !

Hiking to Cadini di Misurina

If you have some energy left after completing the Tre Cime di Lavaredo loop hike, I would recommend adding an extra hike to your day.

There is an insanely beautiful viewpoint along the Cadini di Misurina hiking trail and it would be such a shame for leaving it out of this Dolomites road trip itinerary!

Hiking to Cadini di Misurina is one of the lesser-known hikes in the Dolomites and not many people know about it, therefore it’s less crowded than the Tre Cime di Lavaredo trail.

They have the same starting point from Rifugio Auronzo so it makes sense to do both in one day (you’ve already paid the €30 toll fee after all) but if you want to do the Cadini di Misurina hike, you will have to hike in the opposite direction of Tre Cime.

It takes around 35-45 minutes to get to the viewpoint, depending on your fitness level. It’s only a 2 km (1.2 miles) hike from Rifugio Auronzo but it’s a bit steep (112 m/370 ft elevation gain) and it’s important to know that this hike is not suitable for people with a fear of heights.

If you want to know how to get to the viewpoint pictured above, read my step-by-step guide about the Cadini di Misurina hike !

Please only climb to the viewpoint at your own risk and don’t even think about doing it if the trail is muddy or wet. If you slip and fall from there you can hurt yourself pretty badly so please be super careful!

Planning a trip to the Dolomites?

Then you might want to take a look at all our other travel guides about the Dolomites. I promise, they are just as awesome as this article was!

• Where to Stay in the Dolomites: Best Areas & Hotels
• 11 Most Beautiful Lakes in the Dolomites You Can’t Miss
• 13 Best Hikes in the Dolomites You Don’t Want to Miss
• Tre Cime di Lavaredo Hike: All You Need to Know Before Visiting
• Cadini di Misurina Hike: How to Find the Famous Viewpoint in the Dolomites
• Hotel Review: Chalet Al Foss Alp Resort, Italy
• Hotel Review: La Maiena Meran Resort, Italy

Other Great Destinations in Italy: Cinque Terre | Florence | Lake Como | Lake Garda | Rome | Venice

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70 thoughts on “The Perfect Dolomites Road Trip Itinerary for 5 Days”

Seriously beautiful! We love a good road trip. I’ve only visited the Dolomites in the winter for skiing. Looks like a trip to hike and view the lakes in early autumn is a good call.

Yes I can only recommend going to the Dolomites in late summer/early autumn, it was absolutely amazing! I would love to go back in winter to see the beautiful snowy landscape too.

great work, i love the pins, photography and the useful information here! I lived in Italy for a year and never made it to the Dolomites – now im kicking myself! I think its time to go back!

Oh wow a year in Italy sounds wonderful, I’m sure you’ve seen so many beautiful places there! But yeah next time when you go to Italy I would really recommend going on a road trip in the Dolomites ?

Absolutely love your photos! You know, the entire area of Dolomites is just so magical in any time of the year. We have visited last year in first days of November and the color palette was just incredible. Though chances of getting a day with good visibility are less. I am saving your post for the next time I am there, because I am sure it is one of those places I would want to come back to.

Thank you so much Lena! You are so right, the Dolomites are really beautiful in every season. I would love to see the autumn colors there or the snowy landscape next time I’m visiting!

It was such a great guide to read Kriszti! Loved all the detailed explanations and. your photos are stunning! I would love to visit this part of Italy, maybe next year!

Thank you so much Ophélie! I’m sure you would love a road trip in the Dolomites, the landscape is just so incredibly gorgeous!

Such a detailed ultimate guide Kriszti! And the photos are all absolutely wonderful, it only confimed how high the Dolomites are on my bucketlist! Thanks a lot for all the tips!

You are so welcome Léa! Hope you will be able to visit soon!

I can’t wait to visit the Dolomites. Hiking at Seceda is on top of my list. Apparently I’ve been to South Tyrol and the Dolomites area with my parents and grandparents a couple of times as a child but I can’t remember. I save this for later when I can travel there again ?

Haha I can totally relate, I can’t remember many things from my childhood either. I really hope you will be able to go there next year, it’s such a stunning area!

Wow what a comprehensive post! I’ve pinned this so I can return to it because there’s so much useful information

Thanks so much Kelsey!

Wow what a stunning and unique range! I had no idea you could do so much around the Dolomites!

I was quite surprised too because I didn’t think it either, but it turned out that even spending 5 days in the Dolomites was not enough! Can’t wait to go back and discover more of this amazing area.

I saw a youtube video in quarantine of the Dolomites and have moved it to the top of my bucketlist. This post confirms that! THE LAKES. Your photos are incredible, too. Thanks for sharing 🙂

Thank you so much Carley, I’m so happy you liked this guide! And I can only agree with you, the Dolomites are just simply stunning!

We’ve usually gone to the French Alps for hiking but this has convinced me that the Dolomites are next on the list. They look even more serene and your pictures are stunning!

If you love the French Alps I’m sure you will love the Dolomites as well, especially if you like hiking! There are so many amazing hiking trails in the Dolomites with stunning scenery.

Dolomites has been added to the bucket list. Alpine lake reminds me of Emerald Lake in Yoho National Park – Canada. Many of my trips are decided by something bright, rainbow, or sparkly. PS – your skirts are absolutely adorable.

Thank you so much Chelsea! I would love to visit Canada and all the beautiful national parks in the country!

This is such a great guide Kriszti and I will definitely saving this for my next trip to the Dolomites! Last time I was in the Dolomites it rained the entire 4 days and there were major floods so I couldn’t actually see anything. I hope to go back soon though!

I’m so sorry you had such a bad weather in the Dolomites! Hopefully next time you’re visiting it will be sunny and clear!

WOW!!!! this doesn’t even look real….it looks like something just out of a fairy book tail. I have seen the Dolomites before, but your pictures are absolutely incredible!!! Pinned this to the top of my bucket list. Your article is super complete for anyone looking to visit this amazing place. Thank you!

Aww thank you so much Paula, you just totally made my day! I’m so so happy you liked this article!

This area looks absolutely stunning, I had never heard of this place before! Being in nature is one of the best things to do and I love being in the mountains, so I am adding this to my list of places to visit. Thanks for sharing!

You are welcome! Hope you will be able to do a road trip in the Dolomites soon, I’m sure you would love it!

Amazing! I would love to see St. John’s church. Great guide for a beautiful location!!

Thank you Erinn, I’m so glad you liked it!

The Dolomites are absolutely gorgeous and you’re photos are amazing! I’ve been to Italy 4x and have never been to this area. On my next trip to Italy I’d love to get out of the cities and take this road trip to get in some great hikes!

Thanks so much Vanessa! I can only recommend visiting the Dolomites on your next trip to Italy!

Gosh the Dolomites never get old. The photos are stunning. I need to visit ASAP!

Thank you so much Alanna! Hope you will be able to visit soon!

I loved reading your post! I visited the Dolomites once when I was a kid, but I think I was too young to fully appreciate them. Now that I’ve been seeing beautiful photos all summer long, I can’t wait to go back and explore the Dolomites all over again 🙂

I’m so glad you liked it Sara! The Dolomites are so stunning, I’m sure you will enjoy your trip there!

So. Beautiful! A friend of mine lives in Belgium currently and did a big trip out there just a month or so ago…the envy was real! Saving this one for later. Great post!

Oh I can totally imagine! I would love to go back for a longer time and explore more of the Dolomites!

The Dolomites are stunning, and your photos are amazing! Driving is definitely the best option, but there are full day tours that leave from Venice, if you don’t want to drive yourself.

Thanks for the info Shannon! Luckily we had our own car with us so we didn’t need to look for another options but it’s good to know that taking day tours is a possibility as well!

Thanks for sharing this itinary. Your photos are stunning. I cannot wait to visit the Dolomites!

Thank you so much Kelli, I’m glad you liked the article!

Great post. We are hoping to visit the Dolomites next year. This will be a helpful travel planner

Thank you, I’m so happy that you liked this post about the Dolomites! Hope you will be able to visit next year!

Thank you for your post. I am planning a trip to the Dolomites in mid-October, and noticed that most cable cars will not longer be operating. For the Tre Cime di Lavaredo hike, do we need to get a cable car up? Thanks!

Hi Kate! No, you don’t need any cable cars for Tre Cime di Lavaredo, you can drive all the way up to Rifugio Auronzo where the hike starts. Alternatively you can use the public buses if you don’t have a car. Hope you’re gonna have an amazing trip!!

Looks amazing! Nothing better than a mountain vacation. Thank you for sharing this.

We are looking to go the first week in October 2022. Some of the hotels you recommended close October 1,2, or 3. Others are open. We are kind of stuck with these dates, due to another commitment afterwards. SO, would you recommend we continue pursuing this trip. Or postpone until another year.

Hi! I think this Dolomites road trip works best from late spring to early autumn because in the winter period, lots of roads and hiking trails are closed, and also some hotels close for the season as well. That being said, if you can only go in the first week of October, I think you can still make the best of it! Just be prepared that you’ll most likely need to modify this itinerary. Oh and also, it might already snow during that period!

Hi- I stumbled on your blog …amazing ….my family of four ( two adults and two teens ) are planning a winter ski trip to the Dolomites. The possibilities seem endless…your site mostly touches on spring/summer activities there – any places you can recommend there for the winter ski season ?

Hi Shira! Unfortunately I’ve only been to the Dolomites during summer and fall so I don’t have any personal experience in the winter season. However, I’m sure you’ll find lots of opportunities in winter as well, especially if you love skiing or snowboarding!

Hi, is it possible to go in last week of May? Nice post! Thank you so much!

Yes, I think the end of May is one of the best times to visit the Dolomites.

We a family of 5, two 55-year-olds and three in their mid-20s will be visiting the Dolomites for 5 nights in July/August and would love to follow your itinerary. A few questions we would like to ask would be: – Are all the hikes mentioned in your itinerary doable for normal physical level fitness people? We are not hikers but can walk a long distance (without climbing steep hills). We will also be renting an SUV. Is driving in the Dolomites difficult? What should we be aware of and which part of driving in your itinerary is the most difficult? Last question, How much would the hotels you mentioned and car rental cost (average)?

Hey! Yes, all the hikes are totally doable. We’re not huge hikers either but I found most of the hikes pretty easy so I think you’ll be able to do them as well. There are some winding roads you need to be careful with but other than that, driving in the Dolomites is an amazing experience. I can’t remember any parts that were difficult to drive in. Unfortunately, I can’t really tell you much about the costs – we came with our own car so we didn’t do any rentals and hotels usually use dynamic pricing so it’s hard to stay how much it will cost without checking them individually. I linked the two hotels we stayed at so I would recommend checking their availability/price during your travel dates.

Thank you very much for an informative post about the Dolomites. This unique area in Italy has been on our bucket list for very long time and your post fuels our wanderlust to explore the Dolomites this autumn. Thank you dear and safe travels. Martina x x x

Thank you so much for your sweet comment! I’m so happy I was able to help 🙂

thanks for the detailed post and beautiful photos you had! may i check if is possible for us to drive directly in alpe di suisi area, from your map compatsch to malga sanon swing? Instead of walking for 1 hour. Thank you.

Sorry to miss out this, if I am not renting car, can I reach St. Magdalena/St. John church by bus? I checked google maps there is this option, just not sure how reliable is the public transport in Dolomites area. If not, any car rental company you are aware of that offers affordable rate? Thank you.

I’ve never tried public buses in the Dolomites so I’m afraid I don’t have any reliable information other than the one you gathered on Google. We took our own car to the Dolomites but in other cases, we always check car rental sites like RentalCars, DiscoverCars, etc. and choose the one that has the best ratings and rates in the area.

Hey! No, unfortunately, it’s not possible unless you have a hotel booked in the area. In this case, you are allowed to drive up but only to your hotel, not any further, and you also need to obtain a special permit from your hotel. This is valid on the first day of your arrival, on other days you still can’t drive up between 9 am and 5 pm.

Just wanted to thank you for all this information! Super easy to comprehend, detailed, and informative. My family and I just got back from the Dolomites where we primarily used your blog for our itinerary and it was a fantastic trip. Much appreciated.

Aww I’m so happy to hear that! Thank you for sharing it with me 🙂

Thank you, Kriszti. All helpful info as we plan our trip for March.

So happy to hear that! Hope you’ll have a great trip!

Thank you so much for this post! Do you know anyone that has been to the Dolomites in May? I would really like to spend time there in May but certain information I keep reading makes it sound like a lot is closed in the area then or hikes may not be doable.

Unfortunately not, we’ve been twice so far but both of it was in September. I think hikes should be absolutely doable in May already, the only ones I would really double-check are the ones that require a cable car ride to the trailhead but most don’t. I would love to go back in May too so let me know how it goes! 🙂

Hi Kriszti ,

Did you see Lake Misurina on your itinerary ?

On this trip we only drove by but on our second visit we spent a bit of time at the lake too, it was really beautiful!

i love your frank tips which really help put things in perspective when planning for a trip!

would you by chance have any more info re driving a german rental to the dolomites? e.g. would it be easy to find a rental firm that allows it (i’ve heard some allow with extra fees), as the major rental firms aren’t really clear on this on their websites nor their online rental contracts/selections.

i’m keen on combining a trip to bavaria with the dolomites, but have not been very confident in the planning process due to the lack of info for a multi country trip with a german rental. if logistics are too much of a hassale, i may have to split the places into separate trips or look at renting separate cars in the different countries!

Thanks so much for your nice comment, I really appreciate it! Unfortunately I don’t have any experience with rentals in the area as we always drove our own car from Hungary. Generally speaking, crossing the border with a rental is always a bit complicated but I’m pretty sure that there are some companies who allow this, maybe for an extra fee, so I think it’s best to contact them directly. Sorry that I couldn’t help more!

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The Perfect 3, 4 or 5 Day Dolomites Road Trip Itinerary

Last Updated on March 4, 2024

by Neota Langley

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

The Italian Dolomites are one of the most spectacular mountain ranges in the world. Located in the northeastern corner of Italy, an unforgettable Dolomites road trip itinerary should be on everyone’s bucket list.

Jagged peaks towering over fairytale villages, rolling meadows and turquoise alpine lakes. We’ll be visiting the highlights and some secret spots along the way, so pack your camera and hiking boots to spend the ultimate 3, 4 or 5 days in the Dolomites.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in the Dolomites?

There is no easy answer when it comes to how many days to spend in the Dolomites. There are thousands of hiking trails, mountain passes, alpine towns and lakes to explore.

You could easily spend weeks or even months in this varied region and still have more to discover. For the purpose of this Dolomites itinerary, we recommend you spend between 3 and 5 days exploring the area.

Just passing through, you won’t have time to see all of the highlights. But with 3 days, you’ll have just enough time to visit Alpe Di Siusi, Val Di Funes, Lago Di Braise and Tre Cime. These are the top 4 destinations when visiting this region, but you will miss out on a few of the hidden gems.

Spending 4 days in the Dolomites gives you extra time to experience one of the day hikes the region is so famous for. You’ll have the opportunity to take a break from the crowds at the most popular destinations and head into the mountains to experience nature at its very best.

If you are not into hiking, you could opt to spend the fourth day shopping in Cortina D’Ampezzo, a small town full of designer stores, outdoor equipment shops and a large department store.

If you have time, 5 days in the Dolomites is the best way to experience this incredible area. With the extra time, you can slow this jam-packed itinerary down and take your time soaking in the incredible mountain vistas.

Spend the additional day discovering some of the hidden gems around Cortina, including the painstakingly preserved trenches of Cinque Torri.

Getting To & Around the Dolomites

It’s easy to get to the Dolomites, with several travel options available whether you are coming from further afield or a nearby European destination. 

The Dolomites don’t have a dedicated airport, but there are several nearby cities with international airports to choose from. Three of the closest are Venice Marco Polo Airport, Innsbruck Airport (Austria), and Verona Airport. 

The Dolomites are also well-connected by train. You can take a train from major cities across Europe, such as Verona , Venice , Milan and Paris , to cities like Bolzano, Brixen, or Belluno, which are all gateways to the Dolomites. You can view train schedules here .

Many of the smaller towns and alpine villages are not connected by train, so if you are planning on using public transport to get around, you will have to rely primarily on local buses. 

If you are travelling with your own vehicle or are planning to rent a car ( browse Rentalcars.com for rental car options), reaching the Dolomites is easy. In Italy, you don’t need a vignette to use the motorways like in Switzerland or Austria . If you want to use the toll roads, you simply pay at a booth on entry and exit.

The Dolomites region is connected by winding mountain passes and alpine valleys. Some of the top destinations can’t be reached using public transport, so if you want to truly make the most of this region, it’s best to travel by car. If you don’t want to drive but want the flexibility of a car, there are multi-day private tours that will take you some places in the Dolomites.

The region is also perfectly set up for campervans, with plenty of beautiful campsites in the heart of the mountains. You can hire a camper to live the ultimate van life in the Dolomites if you don’t have your own.

Motorhomes can be tricky to manoeuvre on the narrow mountain passes, so make sure you are confident with the size when hiring a camper and driving in the Dolomites. 

Best Time to Visit the Dolomites

The Dolomites are an adventure playground all year round and there really is no bad time to plan a trip to the Dolomites. When you choose to visit depends on what you want to see and do during your stay, but there are a few key things to note.

The summer is the peak season for tourist hotspots, hiking trails and refugios. The roads and trails can be busy, but the hours of beautiful sunshine and blankets of wildflowers are worth the queues. 

The best time to visit is in the shoulder seasons, from May to June and from September to October. Out of these 4 months, the most magical time to visit is autumn. The forests of the Dolomites are largely made up of Larch trees that turn a vibrant orange colour in October, this makes the landscape feel like something directly out of a fairytale.

The roads and paths are much quieter, but some Refugios will be closed for the season, and the temperatures can drop, so make sure you pack a warm, waterproof coat just in case. 

During the winter months, the landscape transforms into a winter sports paradise. The Dolomiti Superski area, comprising of 12 resorts, is the largest ski area in the world. The Alta Badia area has some of the most magnificent pistes weaving through gullies and harsh rock formations.

Winter is not a good time to visit if you are hoping to hike or climb. Several of the main destinations are closed or are only open to skiers until late April or sometimes into May, depending on snowfall. 

3, 4 or 5-Day Dolomites Itinerary

Now you know more about the region itself, it’s time to put together your ultimate trip. Whether you have 3 days in the Dolomites or 5, this itinerary is jam-packed full of the top destinations and off-the-beaten-path gems. Use this comprehensive guide to prepare for the adventure of a lifetime.

Day 1 – Bolzano, Val di Funes, Alpe Di Suisi & Vale Gardena

Bolzano .

Our itinerary starts and ends in Bolzano, the capital city of South Tyrol in northern Italy. A vibrant and culturally rich destination nestled in the heart of the Dolomites with a unique blend of Italian and Austrian influences.

This city is easy to reach, making it the perfect place to set off on your adventure. We have allocated an entire afternoon to explore this diverse destination at the end of this itinerary but for now, grab a quick bite to eat and a smooth Italian coffee before heading out into the mountains to start exploring. 

Bolzano also makes for an excellent base for the first night.

Val Di Funes 

Val di Funes, also known as Villnöss Valley, is a picturesque valley surrounded by towering mountains. The valley offers breathtaking landscapes and a tranquil atmosphere. It is famous for its two iconic churches, set against the backdrop of the stunning Geisler/Odle mountain range. 

San Giovanni Church in the village of Ranui is the most famous, with photos of the rolling meadow, white stone church, and towering mountains to be found on every social media platform. There are two main viewing platforms, one is a raised platform at the edge of the field, and the other is a short walk up the road towards the church.  

Santa Maddalena Church in the village of the same name is the second church. The grey stone church and Obermesnerhof Farmstead make the perfect foreground to the inhospitable jagged peaks that dominate the horizon. 

However, there is more to do in this picturesque valley than snap photos. If you have time, consider taking one of the many hiking trails from Santa Maddalena. The churches are a hotspot for tourists but take a step out onto the trail, and you’ll see this area is relatively untouched by tourism.

The perfect short hike is the Panoramaweg or the ‘Panorama Trail’, an hour-long route that, as the name suggests, provides breathtaking views across the valley. If you want to hike in the Dolomites, this is an excellent first trail to head out on!

Ortisei & Alpe Di Siusi 

Ortisei is a picturesque town in Val Gardena, Italy, serving as an excellent starting point for a visit to Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Alm), Europe’s largest high-altitude Alpine meadow. Alpe di Siusi is one of the most iconic photography destinations in the region, and it’s not hard to see why.  

From Ortisei, you can easily reach Alpe di Siusi via a 10-minute cable car ride that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Dolomite peaks. Once you arrive at Alpe di Siusi, you’ll be greeted by a stunning natural landscape dotted with charming alpine huts and trails for hiking, biking, and skiing, depending on the season. 

With over 440km of trails to explore and countless rustic mountain cabins, Alpe di Siusi is a haven for any outdoor enthusiast. If you want a short hike and a perfect picnic spot,  take trail 9 heading towards Saltria. This path will lead you through the rolling meadows to the most famous photo spot, Belvedere dell’Alpe di Siusi.

The entire hike is 14km, but this short section to reach the viewpoint is just 3km. When you have finished exploring the plateau, head to the cable car station to get back down to Ortisei to explore a bit of Val Gardena.

Val Gardena

Val Gardena is a breathtaking alpine valley renowned for its natural beauty, charming villages, and world-class outdoor activities. The valley comprises three main villages: Ortisei (St. Ulrich), Selva (Wolkenstein), and Santa Cristina (St. Christina).

The valley exudes a rich cultural heritage, with traditional Ladin architecture, woodcarving, and folk traditions still alive.

Where to Stay in Bolzano

Feichter Hotel & Bistro – This hotel in the centre of Bolzano makes for an excellent place to stay in the Dolomites. They have a number of rooms on offer, friendly hosts and a great buffet breakfast available daily.

Hotel Greif – If you’re looking for something a bit more upmarket during your Dolomites trip, then this hotel is an excellent option. They have a number of elegant rooms to choose from, a great location and plenty of amenities for guests to enjoy.

Bogen Bistro & Apartments – Those after their own space in Bolzano will love these apartments in the centre of Bolzano. They have a range of fully-furnished flats to choose from along with all the amenities associated with a traditional hotel.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Bozano hotels!

Day 2 – Gardena Pass, Lago di Braies, Prato Piazza & Cortina d’Ambrezzo

Gardena pass .

We start day 2 with a thrilling drive over the Gardena Pass. Also known as Passo Gardena or Grödnerjoch, the Gardena Pass is a winding mountain pass connecting the Val Gardena and Alta Badia valleys.

This region is so beautiful that the road trip is part of the adventure. Some of the mountain passes, including the Gardena Pass, are the most spectacular roads in the world.

Take your time, stopping along the route at the many viewpoints before ending up in the Alta Badia Valley on the other side. From here, take the short drive up to the Fanes-Senes-Braies natural park.  

Lago Di Braies 

One of the most famous locations in the Dolomites (and the entire area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site) is the sparkling emerald mountain lake, Lago Di Braies. You’ll want to start your day early for this as during the high season, the road up to the lake closes at 10 am or even earlier if the car parks are full.

There are several car parks on the way up to Braies, the best option is the P2. This car park is the last to fill up but is actually cheaper than the main car park P1. It is a short walk to the lake (around 10 minutes), and there is a food truck at the entrance that is well worth visiting for a bite to eat after your hike. 

Although this is one of the busiest spots in the entire region, it is worth seeing, especially if you are an early riser and can beat the crowds.

If you want to take one of the traditional wooden rowing boats out onto the lake, you’ll find the hire hut at the main entrance to the lake area. One-hour rental is 30 euros, and if you get there early enough in the shoulder season, you may be lucky enough to have the lake to yourself.

The hike around the lake is just over 3km and takes between one hour and two hours, depending on how many photo breaks you want to take along the way. Don’t miss the hidden alpine church hidden in the trees on the western shore before heading back to your car. 

Prato Piazza

The next stop as we drive from Lago Di Braies to our final destination for today, Cortina d’Ampezzo, is the Prato Piazza.

This plateau is a hidden gem known for its natural beauty and tranquillity. Situated at an altitude of 2,000 meters, Prato Piazza is a vast plateau surrounded by majestic peaks, including the famous three peaks of Tre Cime di Lavaredo.

It offers breathtaking panoramic views, making it a paradise for hikers, nature lovers, and photographers. The area is dotted with alpine huts and offers numerous hiking trails showcasing the pristine alpine landscapes.

Prato Piazza is also renowned for its vibrant alpine flora during the summer months, creating a colourful tapestry against the backdrop of the towering mountains. You can drive your car right up to the base of the plateau before heading out on foot to explore.

For a short hike with some of the best views, take trail number 37. Along the route, you will find several war memorials, two Refugios (alpine huts offering food and board) and incredible views across Croda Rossa D’Ampezzo and the surrounding peaks of the Braies national park.

Although similar to Alpe Di Siusi, this area is considerably quieter, so if you want to avoid the crowds, this is the perfect place to relax and take in your surroundings. 

Cortina d’Ampezzo

Our last stop on day 2 is Cortina d’Ampezzo. Often known as the heart of the Dolomites, this town is the gateway to the world-renowned alpine resort, Dolomiti Superski. Known for its stunning natural beauty and glamorous atmosphere, we will be spending the next two days getting to know Cortina and its surrounding mountain ranges. 

Cortina d’Ampezzo is not only famed for its natural beauty but also for its elegant and vibrant town centre.

The Corso Italia, the main street, is lined with high-end shops, designer boutiques, and exquisite restaurants serving delectable local cuisine. The town exudes a unique charm with its blend of Italian and Tyrolean influences, reflected in its architecture and cultural heritage. 

No trip to Italy would be complete without treating yourself to a pizza. Head to Ai Due Forni Di Aldo E Alverà Brothers down a small side off the main high street to find the most authentic, delicious pizza in Cortina.

Where to Stay in Cortina d’Ampezzo

B&B Hotel Passo Tre Croci Cortina – This 3-star bed and breakfast is an excellent place to base yourself in Cortina d’Ampezzo. They have a number of lovely rooms to choose from, a great location and a fantastic breakfast available daily.

Franceschi Park Hotel – This opulent lodge in the mountains is the perfect place to stay while you explore the Dolomites. They have countless beautiful rooms on offer along with a number of plush amenities to ensure you want for nothing during your stay.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Cortina d’Ampezzo hotels!

Day 3 – Tre Cime, Lago Misurnia & the Olympic Ice Stadium

Tre Cime di Lavaredo, also known as the Three Peaks of Lavaredo, is one of the most iconic and spectacular mountain formations you’ll see during your time in the Dolomites. These three distinctive peaks, Cima Grande, Cima Ovest, and Cima Piccola, stand tall and majestic, offering breathtaking views.

To reach the car park at Rifugio Auronzo, you’ll have to take the toll road up the mountain. If you are visiting in a self-contained campervan, you are permitted to go up the night before (after 7 pm) and stay the night – waking up to the sunrise reflecting onto the peaks. If you are driving from Cortina, the road gets very busy, so it’s best to visit as soon as it opens at 8 am to avoid the queues. 

The Tre Cime circuit trail (clockwise) is the best way to explore the area. This hike is suitable for the whole family as it is fairly flat, but it does take 3-4 hours, so make sure you pack snacks and enough water. 

If you want to do a shorter walk, one of the most iconic viewpoints is the Cadini di Misurina, but be aware this route is not suitable for children or dogs due to sheer drops beside the path.  

If you are an experienced hiker and don’t want to pay to drive up the toll road, you can access Tre Cime from the valley below on a 17km circuit trail. Starting in the Antoniusstein Car Park, this path is challenging, with over 1200m of elevation and some scrambling using metal cables and rungs.

Via Ferrata equipment is not required, but it may be a good idea to take a helmet and climbing gloves if you have them.  

Lago Misurina

A quick stop on your way back down into Cortina d’Ampezzo, Lago Misurina sits directly beside the main road, so gives you the perfect opportunity to pull over for a photo opportunity or to visit the large souvenir shop or alpine bar on its shores.

There is a short walk around the lake if you haven’t had enough hiking for today, but a quick stop-off is enough to take in the surrounding beauty. 

Olympic Ice Stadium

Host to the 1956 Winter Olympics, Cortina d’Ampezzo is a must-visit destination for snow sports enthusiasts. However, if you are visiting during the summer months, you can still experience some of the winter magic in the Olympic Ice Stadium.

Here you can enjoy year-round ice skating and various competitions for curling, figure skating and ice hockey. If there are any events during your stay, it’s well worth getting tickets. The atmosphere of the competition is incredible.

Although the building was recently restored, they have preserved the original 1956 building within the more modern surrounds. 

The Dolomites sit on the border between Italy and Austria, so the Tyrolean cuisine on offer is a wonderful blend of Mediterranean Italian and cosy Alpine Austrian cuisine.

There are several restaurants to choose between, including the fine-dining Ristorante Tivoli or the more casual wine bar offering small plates, Enoteca Baita Pie Tofana . If you only have 3 days in the Dolomites, this is the perfect way to round off your trip. 

Day 4 – Lago di Sorapis or Croda di Lago Loop

Lago di sorapis.

The Dolomites are recognised worldwide for their jagged peaks, alpine lakes and endless hiking trails. For day 4, we are combining all of the above and are heading out into the Sorapis mountain range for a hike you will never forget.

This hiking trail is moderate in difficulty, at 14km long with 700m of elevation but is doable whether you are an experienced hiker or not – as long as you don’t have a fear of heights.

This scenic hike starts from the Sorapis car park at the top of the Passo Tre Croci, just a 12-minute drive from the centre of Cortina. The number 215 trail is easy to follow, winding its way through the forest, passing several WW1 bunkers and out onto the mountainside.

This part of the trail can be tricky as you have to rely on metal cables along the rock face for stability, but as long as you don’t look down, this section is over fairly quickly. 

The Refugio before the lake offers board, food and drink and shelter from bad weather should you need it. Once you have arrived at the bright blue lake, you can choose to walk around it on a well-maintained path, but swimming is prohibited.

You can either walk back the way you came no trail 215 or opt to go the quieter way down and take the fork in the path to join trail number 216 to make the hike a circuit. This route may have fewer people to pass, but it comes at a price. There is a section of scrambling and a sharp ascent up a rubble-filled slope to tackle before you can enjoy the descent.    

Croda Di Lago Loop 

Starting from the Giau Pass, the Croda di Lago loop is another jaw-dropping hike just 15 minutes out of Cortina. Starting at the car park at Ponte di Rocurto, the trail leads to the picturesque Lago di Federa, nestled beneath the majestic Croda di Lago peak.

This hike is 13km in length with 800m of elevation, there are a few technical sections, but it is a relatively easy hike if you are used to walking uphill.

This particular loop follows the Alta Via 1, a long-distance hiking trail that traverses the Dolomites until you reach Rifugio Palmieri before looping back on trail number 437.

Day 5 – Cinque Torri, Falzarego Pass & Bolzano

Cinque torri .

If you have 5 days, Cinque Torri is the perfect place to spend your last day. This area is much quieter than the likes of Tre Cime or Lago di Braies, with plenty of space to find your own piece of mountain paradise.

You can opt to take the cable car up to Cinque Torri (Five Towers) or hike up beside the ski slope in the summer months. The hike is a short, steep climb up 360m, but as you reach the brow of the hill, the views over to Cinque Torri and beyond are some of the best in the Dolomites.

This area is not just known for its beautiful views. Once you have reached the Refugio, the WW1 trenches and bunkers around Cinque Torri are well worth visiting. During the conflict, the Dolomites served as a front line between the Italian and Austro-Hungarian forces.

The harsh terrain and challenging weather conditions made the Dolomites a formidable battleground. Painstakingly restored, the trenches and bunkers are now a WWI open-air museum (the Museum of the Great War) and are free to visit.

Before heading back down to the car park, grab a bite to eat at Refugio Cinque Torri. The food on offer here is delicious, from polenta and sirloin steak to truffle pasta. Although there is a large outdoor seating area, there is a small hidden terrace upstairs where you can enjoy a drink with the best views in the house.

Dolomiti Superski Area & Falzarego Pass

As our final day comes to a close, it’s time to head back towards the bright city lights of Bolzano. The drive from Cinque Torri to Bolzano takes around 2hrs but it’s best to allow an additional hour or two for photo breaks along the way.

This drive takes in several mountain passes, including the Falzarego Pass and the Pordoi Pass. No matter which route you chose, you will pass through several Dolomiti Superski areas so if you are planning a winter sports holiday, this is the perfect opportunity to get a feel for the area.

You could also opt to detour to the beautiful Lago di Carezza. This Alpine Lake is small, but one of the most beautiful in the region.

Bolzano is the ultimate endpoint for our Dolomites road trip. After a busy few days of hiking and exploring the wilderness, we bring this itinerary to a close with an afternoon in the city. 

First, wander through the charming streets of Bolzano’s historic centre, admiring the colourful buildings and medieval architecture. Don’t miss the Piazza Walther, a bustling square with a beautiful fountain and surrounded by cafes and shops.

Next, visit the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology. Discover the famous Ötzi the Iceman, a well-preserved mummy of a man who lived sometime between 3350 and 3105 BCE. Otzi was discovered in the Ötztal Alps between Italy and Austria and was naturally mummified within the ice. Learn about the region’s archaeological history and the life of this ancient individual.

Before dinner, take a peaceful walk through the beautiful gardens of Renon/Ritten. Admire the colourful flowerbeds and sculptures, and enjoy panoramic views of Bolzano.

Another busy day and you are sure to have worked up an appetite for one last Tyrolean meal. Situated in a historic building, Batzenhäusl is a popular spot for traditional Tyrolean cuisine. The menu features hearty dishes such as dumplings, schnitzel, and local game, all served in a cosy and rustic ambience.

Alternatively, if you want to finish your trip in style, try Gourmetstube Einhorn . Located in the historic centre, this Michelin-starred restaurant offers a refined dining experience with a focus on regional ingredients and creative presentations. 

A Dolomites road trip truly is an experience of a lifetime. This itinerary whisks you away into a dreamland, the towering white mountains, turquoise lakes and sheer valleys all have to be seen to be believed. Whether you have 3 or 5 days to spend in this majestic region, you’ll be in for a real treat. 

Are you planning to visit the Dolomites? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

One Day in Bologna: A Day Trip from Florence

Northern Italy vs Southern Italy: Which Region to Visit?

The Ultimate 7 to 10 Days in Tuscany Itinerary

About Neota Langley

Neota is a writer for The World Was Here First. Born and bred in Cornwall, she can usually be found with hiking boots on, ready to embark on an adventure. For the last 6 years, she has travelled throughout Europe in her self-built campervan with her trusty canine companion, Ivy. She loves exploring France, the Nordics and spending time in Alpine destinations.

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The Ultimate Dolomites Road Trip Guide

Updated February 2024

This ultimate Dolomites road trip guide should show you why visiting South Tyrol was our favorite trip to date. I’ve bookmarked images from the Dolomites for years now and I have to say, the photos do not do it justice. It’s hard to describe how otherworldly this outdoor haven is in person.

After deciding on a 9-day road trip through the Dolomites, we gathered as much information as possible before visiting. This is the first place where we found it quite challenging to get good advice on the overall details of the trip, so I wanted to share all the knowledge we gathered and learned firsthand. This may be my most lengthy blog post to date and it covers almost every aspect of traveling to the Dolomites.

Road tripping in the Dolomites is certainly the best way to see the area as it is the most accessible by car. Having a car affords you the opportunity to explore limitlessly, so I highly recommend it.

Short on Time? Here Are My Top Picks for the Best Hotels in the Dolomites:

• Adler Lodge Hotel (Alpe di Siusi)
• Mandarin Oriental Cristallo (Cortina d’ Ampezzo, opens Summer 2025)

If you’re keen on capturing the breathtaking landscapes of the Dolomites, don’t miss our detailed photography guide to the Dolomites . Additionally, for those looking to explore the hidden gems of this region, our list of 10 places not to miss in the Dolomites and our guide on the best places to hike in the Dolomites are must-reads.

Without further ado, here’s everything you need to know about road tripping through the Dolomites!

What to Know Before Visting the Dolomites

Here are a few good things to note:

• It’s an incredibly seasonal destination. Most towns shut down entirely from October-December and March-April, as do the gondolas (open for ski season). We were on the tail end of the season (second week of October), so we found most places to be empty which was to our benefit for hiking but challenging for restaurants and accommodations.
• A few of the smaller roads will close down for winter seasons, so best not to visit in the midst of winter if you don’t have to.
• Based on research, I think mid-to-late September would be nice, or early summer before the crowds.
• You could spend anywhere from 1-2 weeks here, pending on what you want to do and see.
• Italian and German are the two languages predominantly spoken.
• It feels more like an alpine region like the alps of Switzerland.
• Always carry Euros.
• GPS or good local cell service is necessary for navigating.
• Pack layers — weather changes fast here. We went on a hike wherein one moment it was sunny, then thundering rain, to fog so thick we couldn’t see, and then clear again.

How to Get to the Dolomites

We opted to fly into Venice, Italy as we wanted to return our car to the same place (best option for pricing). Essentially we did one big loop around the Dolomites. You can fly into major airports like Milan, Verona, or even into Innsbruck, Austria pending on what part of the Dolomites you want to spend time in. Flying into Venice is the shortest amount of time for driving if you’re starting on the Cortina d’Ampezzo side of the Dolomites (Tre Cime di Lavaredo) like we were.

Renting a Car for the Dolomites

We partnered with Hertz Europe for this trip to rent our car for the road trip. Picking up our car in Venice when we landed was really easy as the rental car pick up is right in the terminal. We took the “Super Coverage” for our trip and am really thankful we did after driving for the nine days as it gave us peace of mind. I’d recommend booking your car directly with Hertz Europe to ensure your reservation. One thing to note in Italy, an international driver’s permit is needed — AAA is where you can get one in the US. It is crucial if you get pulled over.

Driving in the Dolomites

We’ve driven before in Italy so we were not foreign to the often fast Italian drivers. Be comfortable with roundabouts, other cars passing you on single-lane roads, and always have a look at the signs. There are some tolls on the routes, which you can pay in either cash or card. Most signage is in Italian or German, so be prepared to have to translate some parking signs into English.

One Note: Gas stations often will not take American credit cards. We had to use cash a few times, so be sure to always carry Euros.

Where to Stay in the Dolomites

When it comes to the Dolomites, there are a ton of options for where to stay — it completely depends on what you want to see and do. We did not want to change hotels frequently so we split our time into two sides with 3 nights in Cortina d’Ampezzo and 4 nights in Ortisei (and one final night in Verona). We were really happy with how we allocated our time and the only change would be to add a night in Alpe di Siusi so we could access the road for sunset/sunrise photography.

From Cortina d’Ampezzo and Ortisei, most sights/hikes were only 45 minutes away, so these two towns were the perfect base to return to each night.

Here’s a map to better see the distance between the two areas:

Where to Stay in Cortina d’ Ampezzo

We stayed in a very budget hotel on the Pocol side of the valley and would not recommend being that far over or this hotel. I’d recommend staying in actual Cortina d’ Ampezzo town or on the Cianderies side as that is the road that leads up to most of everything you’ll see.

There are incredible Airbnbs and the hotel that caught my eye was the soon-to-open, Mandarin Oriental Cristallo, which is set to open in Summer 2025.

Other Areas to Consider Staying in Nearby

• A night in the Lago di Braies area.

Where to Stay in Ortisei

We booked an Airbnb for our four nights just on the side of the mountain and were really happy with having a kitchen and a big space to come back to. There are quite a few options on Airbnb, but they must be reserved in advance. For a night in Alpe di Siusi, the Adler Lodge Hotel is a dream and in Ortisei town, I’d recommend the other Adler Spa Resort .

• Val Gardena area
• Castelrotto
• A night in St. Maddalena

Where We Went in the Dolomites

I’m going to split this into two sections, where we went from Cortina d’Ampezzo and where we went from Ortisei. In each point of interest, I’ll also mention where we dined and any other notes of interest.

From Cortina d’Ampezzo

The town of cortina d’ampezzo.

The ski village of Cortina d’Ampezzo is a great base as there is a ton of restaurants and it’s quite charming. One exceptional experience we had was our two lunches at SanBrite . It was a dining experience similar to what you would see on Chef’s Table and their passion for bringing local ingredients to the plate is beautiful. I’d recommend eating here at least once and also at their second restaurant called Agriturismo El Brite de Larieto . For casual food, we dined at La Tavernetta in town twice as we loved the pizza!

Tre Cime di Lavaredo

This is really what we came for. We went into the park two times during our stay. It’s one road in and out (a fee of 17€ to enter) and takes you to the top where the Rifugio Auronzo is (we ate a few meals here between hikes). We did two main hikes in Tre Cime di Lavaredo. The best part is that with little effort, you can get to incredible views here.

• Cadini Group Peaks Hike ( pictured here ) : I had seen the photos of this shot on Instagram and was amazed by how high the peaks are, so we set out to find it. The first time we were unsuccessful as the fog covered the peaks so we walked the wrong direction. The peaks are just in front of where you park. Don’t follow signs for the rifugios, just go right out and follow the one-way trail there. If you can’t find it, just show the photo to someone there and they’ll point you in the direction. It takes about 40 minutes to hike there and sunrise is beautiful here.
• The Three Peaks Hike: This is the main hike that everyone does and it’s in the direction of Rifugio Lavaredo. The first part is really flat (you’ll see everyone going there, all the tour bus groups) and you can stop at the church or keep ascending for incredible views. You could circle around Tre Cime and make your way all the way around. There are two other rifugios along the loop that you can visit for a rest or snack. We stopped at the viewpoint and made our way back as we had done the other half the day before.

Lago di Braies

It’s a beautiful place to catch the sunrise and I highly recommend coming here for a few hours. It can get crowded so be sure to arrive early and pay to park in the lot near the lake. You can rent boats from June until late September from 10 AM until 5 PM for 15.00€ for 30 minutes and 25.00€ for 1 hour.

Nearby, we stumbled by Latteria Tre Cime on the main road to Cortina d’Ampezzo where we stopped in for lunch and a drink. It’s a local creamery and they have cheese plates and a ton of local products — it was the perfect pitstop.

Lago di Sorapis

This was our most challenging and rewarding hike. We showed up incredibly unprepared and with not the right amount of time, resulting in an hour-long hike back in the dark forest (not recommended). So first off, allow yourself the proper amount of time — from the parking location at Son Zuogo , it is a good 4 hours round trip with no stops. The trail can be challenging to follow, so be sure to follow the markers. There are always a ton of hikers, so ask if you need help. The ascent goes along a very steep path on the side of the cliff with no railing, though there are cables to hang onto. It’s an effort, but this lake is one of the most beautiful places I’ve seen.

From Ortisei

Gardena pass.

On the way to Ortisei, we stopped off here to snap a photo of one of the windiest roads in the Dolomites. It’s so beautiful and loved the views from here.

Ortisei Town

This is where we were based so we popped into town for a few meals and for grocery shopping. We ate at Cascade Pizzeria twice when we were in town. There’s not a ton going on during the off season, but I’d imagine it gets quite busy during peak months.

Val di Funes

We spent a full afternoon exploring Val di Funes by car and it was one of our favorite areas, especially for photography. It’s incredibly picturesque, and we stopped at iconic St Johann in Ranui Church. Afterward, we caught the sunset over the valley and Santa Maddalena from the famous lookout here . We capped off the night with a yummy dinner at Waldschenke in the valley where we had some local dishes.

Our favorite place we saw in the entire Dolomite region was Seceda. We spent the entire day on the mountain soaking in the views and hiking around. To get to the top, you take the gondola from Ortisei town (it’s 30€ per person roundtrip and runs from 8:3-5:30 from June 2 -October 14, dates may change). We had lunch at Baita Troier on the mountain, hiked to Malga Pieralongia Alm hut to see the free-roaming donkeys, and then returned back to the gondola.

Alpe di Siusi

If there is one place not to miss, it’s Alpe di Siusi. It’s the largest alpine meadow in Europe and breathtaking. It can be confusing on how to visit as the roads are closed for the public unless staying at a hotel or arriving before 9 am or after 5 pm to the parking lots in Compatsch . Read my in-depth guide to visiting Alpe Di Siusi for all of the exact details on how to visit this area and the other components of parking or taking the gondola up. The easiest access is the gondola ride from Ortisei.

We spent most of the day hiking around the valley and out to Malga Sanon for an incredible breakfast with the best views. Afterwards, we hiked back to the parking lot and soaked in the scenes along the way. On our way back to Ortisei, we stopped and had lunch at a beautiful farm/hotel called Lafogl .

Another great viewpoint in the area is the drive through the Sella Pass. There are hikes here, though we just stopped to soak in the views of the Sassolungo Peaks.

Lago di Carezza

We had one more free afternoon, so we took the scenic route to see the incredible colors of Lago di Carezza. Along the way, we dined at Ristorante Hennenstall for a filling lunch in a beautiful space. Afterwards, we went to the lake and walked around to enjoy the views. It’s important to note that you can’t actually walk down to the water’s edge as you may see a ton of IG posts from there — there’s a fence which some have jumped over.

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Ps — are you booking a trip soon use my booking checklist.

These are the sites I use most to book my own trips. Using the links below is a great way to support Bon Traveler’s travel journalism at no extra cost to you . If you need help organizing your itinerary, get my free travel itinerary template here .

1. Book Your Flights

Use Skyscanner to find the best flights. It searches 100s of airlines and websites across the globe to ensure you’re not missing out on any route options or deals.

2. Book Your Accommodations

Use Booking.com for hotels and guest houses. They have the biggest inventory and consistently offer the best rates.

3. Book Your Tours & Experiences

Use Viator or Get Your Guide to find the best tours and experiences. They are my favorite tour search engines. I always check both as their inventory varies depending on the destination.

4. Book Your Car

Use Discover Cars or Rentalcars.com to find the best car rental deals. I recommend comparing rental agency reviews on Google to ensure you are booking with the best company in that destination, as the reviews are often more accurate than the car rental search engines.

5. Don’t Forget Airport Lounge Access

Get a Priority Pass membership to gain access to 1,400+ VIP lounges and airport experiences worldwide. The Priority Pass app is the first thing I check when I have a layover. I’ve been a member for over a decade, and having a comfortable place to relax before and between flights makes air travel so much more enjoyable.

6. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

I never leave the country without travel insurance. It provides comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong (ie. illness, injury, theft, and cancelations, etc.). I use it frequently for my travels to stay protected.

My favorite companies that offer the best coverage and rates are:

• World Nomads (best for all-around)
• Safety Wing (best for frequent travelers)

Xx, Jessica

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21 comments.

I have been searching for dolomites tips and this is the best blog I’ve found yet! I am planning a trip through Italy for my honeymoon and am so excited to explore the dolomites. Thank you for sharing this!! – Amanda

Ah thank you! That makes me so happy to hear!!

I only have 3 days to go to the Dolomites and we like to walk but we are not really the hiker type of people, where do you recommend we go or stay for those 3 days?

I would recommend the area of Alpe de Suisi or Lago di Braies.

Hi Jessica, I wish I had found your blog a little bit earlier to plan my accomodations. But anyway we are going to explore Dolomites in a Campervan for 10 days next week and I’m having a hard time to find informations about caravan parks or where we can park to sleep. Would you know anything about that? Thank you so much for your precious informations in this amazing blog!

Hello! Unfortunately, I don’t know anything about the caravan parks so I can’t help much on that one.

Were these day hikes or did you camp? love your detailed blog post of the dolomites! pictures look gorgeous!

these were all day hikes!

What a great post! I am in the early planning stages of a trip here (hopefully for next summer as I love lake swimming) and this is so far the best resource I have found

Your pictures are mind blowing. Loved it. We are planning for short Dolomites trip this october end for 4 days. (I know not a good time) Though we are no where close to Hiking. 🙂 So for us main thing is Scenic views and strolling around.

Can you please help us ?

Current Itinerary –

Day 1 – Land in Verona Early morning Rent the Car Drive to Riva del Garda (2 hrs) From there move along towards Bolzano to catch Great Dolomites Road(Check Lake carrazza, sella pass, …) to reach Cortina dʼAmpezzo

Day 2- Check Cortina dʼAmpezzo and Tre Cime di Lavaredo

Day 3- Early Morning – Lake Braies and then head to Ortesie

Day 4 – Val Garden , and Alpe de siuise and head back to Verona

Does this sound good?

Hey Kunal, this sounds great and should hit the major spots!

High Jessica.Thank you for your wonderful blog and pics .We are flying from New York to Milano on September 23 and will be in the area for 5-6 days.Will follow all your recommendations .We are arriving very early on the 24th and will pick a car at the airport and we’re thinking of driving to Bolzano(2 1/2 hours drive) to rest from the long flight and then drive to Ortisei the following morning to start your route (In the opposite direction) We are thinking of staying two nights in Ortisei and three in Cortina de Ampezzo.Do you think that we should drive directly to Ortisei from Milano?(It is a 37 minutes drive from Bolzano) and rest there instead? That will give us and extra day in the region. I am 72 years old and my friend 56.We love to walk and can do 3-4 miles a day in the city without problems.Do you think we would we able to endure the walk on the trails that you describe? And If we have to omit one or two of the sites because of the shorter stay,which ones would you recommend? We like photography,and prefer to take landscapes of meadows,lakes ,mountains and small villages. Would appreciate very much your opinion.Thank you and have a good day.

Hi Jessica,

Thanks for your thorough blog. I’m exciting for my upcoming trip. I had one quick question: did you have any trouble driving through the routes with your car? Did you need to have 4W drive in any instances? I have rented a car but it’s a Ford Focus so I want to avoid any dangerous areas if I can’t make it through with it.

You shouldn’t need 4WD as long as there is no snow!

Awesome, thank you!!

Hello Jessica, This is a super guide – thank you so much for sharing! I am planning a trip next year to the Dolomites and we are bringing our car from Ireland and will travel through France/Switzerland first. We are not ‘hikers’ though do enjoy easy walking in the countryside. Your photograpjy is stunning, and we are really going to experience something like that. My question is this: Do you think it is worth doing the ‘loop’ as you have mentioned? We will probably travel to Ortisei from Innsbruck, and I am thinking that to base ourselves in Ortisie and Cortina each for a few nights will give us access to the most beautiful scenery?…or would you recommend we complete the loop? Are there any of your locations that you would advise ‘non-hikers’ to undertake?!! Any advice greatly appreciated! Teresa.

Hey Teresa, most of these places are reachable by car or by a light walk so I think it is easy to do without a huge hike. I’d recommend basing out of Cortina and Ortisei to see all of this.

The loop at mentioned for Tre Cime may be a bit more challenging as there is an upgrade in the hike. Hope this helps!

Thanks for this blog post, it’s very informative!

We are planning a trip for next September and would like to know if you found driving through the Dolomites dangerous due to the high peaks? We can see that renting a car is the best option but wanted to check as it would be the first time driving abroad.

Hey Kim. The roads are very well marked and though some are in the mountains, there are hardly any dirt roads you will go on. The majority of all drives are tourist routes which mean they’re easy to use. Of course, driving abroad means a lot of signage in other languages but its quite easy to figure out after a day. I’d recommend having cell service or google maps on at least one phone.

I created a folder on the Dolomites years ago and have been on Pinterest and came across your article. This is really helpful information. My husband and I will be flying into Milan in mid-September for 1 night, then 2 nights at Lake Como. From there – we had hoped to rent a car in Como then spend 4 days driving around Dolomites – then drop the car back at Como the fly out of Milan. If you could only spend 3 to 4 days driving through the Dolomites – what would you suggest. We will hike a little – but really do not have the time on this trip.

I think being near alpe di suisi would provide many options to explore the Dolomites.

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The ultimate 7-day Dolomites Itinerary | Road Trip Guide

The ultimate Dolomites Itinerary, a full guide with the best places to visit in the Dolomites, lakes, hikes and activities. An Itinerary of the Dolomites for every season.

Last Update: March 25, 2024

• Destination

This is the best itinerary across the Trentino Dolomites . An incredible list of experiences through a 7-day Dolomites Itinerary starting in Trento, the Region Capital of Trentino .

We have explored the Dolomites ourselves, enjoying the fresh air of the high peaks, hiking terrain paths to cabins and alpine lakes. Once we sat before sunrise to swim in the fresh water of a glacier lake at 2,000 metres.

The Dolomites are a vast area located in Northern East Italy , within this Itinerary will cover part of it, the most scenic route through the mountains and villages. You will pass by breathtaking landscapes and green valleys, to give the best experience in Italy. The 7 days itinerary of the Dolomites, is perfect for winter, summer and spring. In fact, the Dolomites are a fantastic destination for summer hikes and lakes exploration, but also to skii in the winter or sip a mulled wine in a traditional chalet.

• Enjoy the Brenta Dolomites

As said before the Dolomites area it’s huge, including paths in different Regions. This itinerary it’s crafted around some of the best landscapes in the Brenta Dolomites , in Trentino.

The massive Brenta Dolomites it’s often overshadowed by the most iconic locations not that far. However organizing a road trip in the Dolomites in this part of the Region can assure you less touristic location, but no less suggestive.

Get wild in a unique location, awarded as UNESCO World Heritage Site, a wonderland for hikers and wild addicts.

FOR MORE | Check out the best 30 experiences to do in Trentino

This post may contain affiliate links or Sponsored Links ( read our Cookie Policy ), and useful experiences that we love to suggest to you. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission (for which we are really grateful) at no extra cost to you. Click on it will help us run this website for you, for FREE, funding our project and continuing to travel, informing curious explorers.

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When to visit the Dolomites?

How long should you spend in the dolomites, our dolomites road trip itinerary map, highlights of our  7-day dolomites itinerary, more time for our itinerary, how to get to the dolomites, where to stay in the dolomites, compare your next travel insurance, faq | dolomites travel guide, explore & stay: unforgettable tours & accommodations in the dolomites.

Discover handpicked tours and accommodations tailored to enhance your journey. Act fast—secure your spot before they’re gone!

❤️‍🔥 Our favourite activities in the Dolomites

• 8-Day tour in the Dolomites by Bike // 👉 BEST TOUR!
• Rafting on the river Noce
• Dolomites Best Lakes Day Trip // 💲 BEST VALUE FOR MONEY

🛎️ Book your accommodation

• QC Terme Hotel Bagni Vecchi – Bormio
• Monroc Hotel and Spa: Comfortable hotel with Spa Centre // 💆🏻‍♀️ BEST SPA HOTEL!
• ALPENHEIM CHARMING & SPA HOTEL // 🥾 Close to the Hikes and centre

We will say, Always! This is a trip that you can’t say no to, if it’s summer or winter doesn’t matter. The Dolomites are the kind of place you could visit at any time of the year and still have life experiences. 

According to locals, the best time of the year to visit the Dolomites peaks is around summer , if your main reason it’s just to relax and enjoy the alpine atmosphere. However, consider visiting this area from May to early October. From May to June you can enjoy some trails without crowds like July and August, when locals mainly have their annual leave planned.

Also Springtime it’s wonderful with the meadows covered by wildflowers and animals grazing, enjoying the energy of water through waterfalls and hidden streams.

We crafted our Dolomites Itinerary around Summer but below you can find useful information for other times of the year.

Another good question, but essential to plan a perfect trip to the Dolomites. Depending on the kind of trip you want, the time spent on the Dolomites might vary. We have crafted a one-week itinerary in the Dolomites, mixing activities, hikes and simple sightseeing.

However, you can personalize this trip to make it shorter or longer. On the way to the location mentioned, there are many other activities you can add. Also, you can shorten your trip as a 5-day Dolomites Itinerary , cutting down activities like rafting on the river Noce, which alone will take half a day on your itinerary.

We suggest you don’t plan less than 5 days in the Dolomites . If you don’t have enough time, you might just base yourself in Trento and take short day trips from there. Alternatively, keep your trip around two locations where you want to be based and move from there.

Remember a Dolomites Itinerary it’s not an easy trip like in other Italian places. This needs to be treated as a slow travel itinerary to enjoy better the atmosphere and the infinite activities that trails have to offer. So if you have time enough, plan a 10-day Dolomites Itinerary , to go around the breathtaking landscapes enjoying it fully.

• Day 1 – Lake Tovel and naturalistic gems of the Adamello – Brenta Nature Park
• Day 2 – Sunrise hike to Tret Alpine Lake. An afternoon with Kayak adventure
• Day 3 – Explore the Canyon Rio Sass. Afternoon Rafting on the River Noce
• Day 4 – E-Bike to 2K
• Day 5 – Hiking into the National Park Adamello Brenta, barefoot and tree-hugging
• Day 6 – Lake of Braies and Tre Cime di Lavaredo

Day 7 – Enjoy Trento

Day by day dolomites road trip itinerary.

Day 1 | Reach and Walk along Lake Tovel

The first day of our Dolomite Itinerary will introduce you to the stunning dramatic mountain scenery. Driving through the great Dolomite Roads , surrounded by those giants and green meadows will be fantastic. In today’s itinerary, you will reach the first stop on our Itinerary through the Dolomites, exploring Lake Tovel.

Once upon a time, this basin was turning red in summer because of a unique alga that was giving this strange colour to the water. This has not happened since 1964 because of the low concentration of the alga. The frame of the Dolomites depict in the water, the peaks still covered with snow even in summer, create a memorable mirror effect on the water.

You are enjoying your first bite of the Dolomites, exploring the area of the Dolomites of Adamello-Brenta Nature Park . Today it’s easy, no hike but just a stroll around the Lake, if the temperatures are high enough you might go for a refreshing swim in the lake. The afternoon will be spent around the little towns in the Val di Non . One of the most interesting places is Cles , with the incredible castle overlooking the valley and the Lake of Santa Giustina . You can also visit the Castle if you have enough time.

You are driving across a particular area of Italy. The Val di Non it’s famous for its production of premium apples. Enjoy fresh products from local sellers. If you are looking for places to stay in the Dolomites, check out some Agriturismo. We have been at the Agriturismo Maso San Bartolomeo , 20 minutes away from the lake at Romeno, a small town in the earth of the Apple Valley.

Day 2 | Sunrise hike to Tret alpine Lake. Afternoon Kayak adventure at Santa Giustina Lake

There is no better way to start your Dolomites Itineraries. After a good breakfast, prepare your bag and your swimsuit. The Tret Alpine Lake it’s artificial, located in the Val di Non. The lake’s at 1600 metres, and it’s reachable by leaving the car at the parking lot, hiking the path no. 512. The Lake of Tret it’s often referred as the Lago di Santa Maria or Felixer Weiher.

The drop it’s just about 350 metres, which will take about 1 hour. The path is steep with few flat areas, sounding like you are just meadows and animal grazing. Enjoy a picnic around the lake, take a dive into the fresh water and reach the middle little island swimming.

It might sound hard, but the sunrise hike will reward you with a fresh swim in the lake and an incredible dive in the springs of the Dolomites.

Kayaking in the Dolomites

After the early morning hiking, the afternoon will be dedicated to the visit to another amazing lake. However, the visit to Santa Giustina Lake will be Kayaking . Surrounded by incredible vineyards and green meadows, the lake will surprise you. Santa Giustina Lake it’s an artificial and authentic gem in the Val di Non. The area is often referred to as the Valley of Canyons.

The Lake has got a truly beautiful area, the Canyons. These rock formations, forged by the natural agents and years of erosion, will leave you speechless. Kayaking in the Dolomites, it’s a unique experience that you might not find in other guides. The Canyons are not well known, and we were lucky to be on a trip with locals.

Day 3 | Waterfall and Canyons at Rio Sass and Rafting on the River Noce

As you might understand, we are not all hiking and high peaks views; we aim more for unique experiences in our Dolomites Itinerary.

Your Day three will take you in the narrow passages of a Canyon, many say like Indiana Jones. The Canyon Rio Sass it’s a secure trail, also suitable for children. The platforms and staircases will drop you down 145 metres for about 348 steps, surrounded by ages of erosion, Stalagmites , stalactites and fossils .

After lunch at a local restaurant or agriturismo, there are many around the Canyon Rio Sass , you will drive toward Val di Sole. This is one of the most popular locations in the Dolomites, especially for Summer Experiences. Usually, the professional football teams in Italy use to do the pre-league training here, attracting people during July and August.

Rafting in the Dolomites

The afternoon will be spent, taking another thrilling experience in the Dolomites. Go rafting on the River Noce. This moderate rafting it’s ideal also for first-timers, like us. It was fun and exciting.

National Geographic has listed this area as one of the World’s Top 10 places for river sport . The River Noce it’s the only one listed in Europe in that special ranking.

The river Noce in summer tends to be overflowing, so it’s not possible every day to do this activity. A 15 Kilometre long descent, which it’s an unforgettable experience with a continuous succession of breathtaking rapids, thanks to the confluence of many other streams.

BOOK THE EXPERIENCE HERE!

Day 4 | E-Bike to the top of the Dolomites

Still staying in Val di Sole, in the beautiful area of Dimaro and Val di Rabbi , you have to experience another great activity. E-bike to the top of the Dolomites.

Reach 2.080 metres above sea level to enjoy the unique scenery of the peaks of the Dolomites. The experience we are proposing to you it’s to an e-bike so still a bit of sport, but efficiently. In winter, this path it’s impossible because the snow doesn’t permit easy access to reach the top easily through an e-bike; however, you can still reach the top by 4×4 car adapter for the weather condition.

The summit it’s the Malga Monte Sole , a chalet that will offer you refreshments. You can also spend the night here, enjoying the landscape away from the lights of the city. This is a great alternative with fair prices to spend a unique night in the Dolomites. What paid off was a fresh spring water stream from the top, which I refilled my bottle. It was the best water I have ever tried in my life, so pure, so fresh.

Day 5 | Hiking into the National Park Adamello Brenta, barefoot and tree hugging

Continuing our trip, through experiences in the Italian Dolomites, it’s time for a proper hike in a wide National Park. Today we are taking you through the Stelvio National Park , accessing from the Val di Rabbi path. A Natural Reserve which features many hike trails, surrounded by the white peaks of Dolomites all year round and green meadows. While hiking, you should enjoy the surroundings, leaving the stress behind. Give to yourself a moment of freedom, barefoot in the meadow, relaxing in the cold stream. We enjoyed this activity a lot, because it’s not mere hiking, which is hard for first-timers. With slow peace, the hiking was enjoyable, leaving us time also to take some photos and appreciate every little moment.

While passing the streams, from one bridge to another, hiking through the forest of the National Park, you can stop by for a unique experience, tree-hugging. A sensorial experience in nature that will reconnect you with primordial senses.

Along hiking paths, the Dolomites area offers incredible trekking routes.

Cross the Tibetan Suspended Bridge | Ragaiolo Suspension Bridge

While exploring the routes in the Stelvio National Park , you will cross a beautiful Tibetan Bridge suspended above the Rio Ragaiolo waterfalls.

The Tibetan Bridge of Val di Rabbi it’s at 1366 meters, a 100 meters long bridge suspended 60 meters above the ground. The view from the top it’s insane, overlooking the valley surrounded by the Dolomites. A charming itinerary in the Stelvio National Park, suitable for everyone, kids as well.

More about the Stelvio National Park

Stelvio National Park it’s one of the largest and oldest parks in Italy. This park features some of the highest peaks in the region, with the lowest point of 700 meters above sea level. The highest mountain it’s Ortles peak at 3904 meters a.s.l.

The park has a great variety of flora and fauna, well preserved and protected. The landscape, it’s dominated by the peaks covered by snow all year round. This creates a magical atmosphere difficult to forget. Not far away from the hiking paths, there is also a climber rock, a popular one among those passionate about this extreme sport, the Forni Glacier . This is just one of the over 250 Km market routes suitable for all types of hikers.

Day 6 | Lake of Braies and Tre Cime di Lavaredo

You might have seen this on Instagram, the photos of the reflection of the dolomites in the water of Lake of Bries are memorable. We couldn’t miss this in our Dolomites Itinerary, taking you to one of the most breathtaking locations in the Italian Dolomites.

This lake’s often referred to as Pragser Wildsee. To reach this from the Val di Rabbi, you should wake up early. Driving through the infinite scenery of the Dolomites it’s a lifetime opportunity. 2 hour and a half drive divide the two locations, taking you passing by Bolzano, a mixed language far-north city in Italy, to the nearest border with Austria.

We know that 2 hours and a half drive seems a lot, but you can go fast, with insane scenery and many interesting stopovers along the way. From Lake Braies, you can go trekking on the Alta Via A1 , a spectacular trek on the Alpine peaks of South Tyrol.

Visit Lake of Braies

This lake’s a must-visit in the Dolomites. However, we suggest you plan ahead your trip here. Visiting this early in the morning will be the best idea to skip the crowds. The place tends to be busy, and so it affects your emotions and the vibes of the atmosphere.

If you have time to travel the day before to Lake Braies , get accommodation nearby, letting you wake up early in the morning, on time to enjoy the sunrise over the Dolomites. The colour of the lakes and the orange shadows of the sun on the mountains make this scenery unique in the world.

Just to give you a few information about visiting Lake Braies , it’s that it’s just one hour of parking free of charge, and then every hour it’s €8. You can stroll around the lake for a 5 Km walk surrounded by wilderness. Most of the Instagram photos are taken on a boat which can be rented at the nearby dock.

The price of renting a boat it’s €18 for 30 minutes or €28 for one hour. However, it’s possible to rent the boat just from May to early October. From 10:00 to 18:00 in May, September and October and from 9:00 to 19:00 in July and August.

Tre Cime di Lavaredo | 360 view of the Italian Dolomites

After exploring the Lago di Braies in the morning, you can’t miss the unique sightseeing of the Dolomites. About a 1-hour drive from the stunning lake, there is the Tre Cime di Lavaredo , the three high peaks symbol of the Dolomites.

This is a hard 6-mile trail, passing by the chalets and alpine refugios across the peaks. Despite the hard hike and the high fee (€30 to start the trail and reach the top), it’s a lifetime opportunity to see the world from a different perspective.

At the very top, you will be surrounded by 360-degree views of the Dolomites. Check the official Tre Cime Loop Trail.

The nearest point to rest after a long day it’s Cortina d’Ampezzo, a ski resort location very appreciated by tourists and locals. This day will be the best on our Dolomites Itinerary, don’t skip it. The tre cime di Lavaredo are definitely one of the most popular landmarks in Italy . Check out also our guide to the best landmarks in Europe .

It’s always regrettable when a beautiful trip ends. During many years of exploring the world, we understood how to make it less bitter. On your last day in the Italian Dolomites, you will explore Trento, the Region Capital of Trentino .

The beautiful town centre it’s folkloristic and rich in history and culture. You can enjoy many activities, staying for a bit more in town. However, you can concentrate your energies just walking around the old town.

For a better view of the Dolomites and the town, you can take the Cable Car up to the Sardagna . The peak overlooking the town has got an incredible view over Trento, the Dolomites and the river Adige which it’s passing right in the middle.

If you want to know more about Trento, you should read our post about the most beautiful cities in Italy .

That’s a good idea, you might understand that we have spent a lot of time going around the beautiful Dolomites. We just love it, and we didn’t expect to fall in love so easily with this landscape.

We spent a lot of time around Trento and the surrounding area, visiting incredible places in the Italian Mountains , which will be great to include in a longer guide about the Dolomites .  

Lake Toblino – It’s a beautiful lake, perfect for photography enthusiasts. Enhancing the mirroring of the Dolomites in the turquoise water. The Castle right in the middle of the water it’s just the perfect composition. A scenery that will remain in your mind forever. Lake Toblino it’s easy to reach from Trento in about 30 minutes.

Lago di Sorapis Trek Rail – This is for experts, the lake it’s so beautiful with glaciers all around, which tends to change the colour to the entire surrounding, like with a blue filter on top. About 14 Km trail up to the mountains. Lago di Carezza –  Another lake on our list of places to visit, if you have more time to spend on a Dolomites Itinerary. Driving along the gorgeous Great Dolomite Road, about half-an-hour away from Bolzano, passing by Nova Levante you can reach the Lake of Carrezza. The lake of Carezza it’s famous because of the reflection of the mountains in the emerald green water.

Lago di Resia – This is an off the beaten path destination in the Dolomites, but not less suggestive. The Lake of Resia , or Der Reschensee in German, it’s an artificial lake of 6,6 KM. The attraction of this place it’s a tower bell of an old underwater church. The whole valley it’s today an underwater village. The scenery’s unique with the Dolomites all around.

There are many ways to reach the Dolomites, depending on which area you want to visit. We reached the Dolomites by train accessing from Trento. For us, this is still the best way to reach the Dolomites.

Depending on the starting of your Dolomites Itinerary you might choose your way to reach the Dolomites. However, you can fly to Venice, Milan, Bergamo or Verona.

All those locations are good access points to the Dolomites. We will take into consideration all those airports below and explain the best way. According to that, we suggest you plan your trip around two base locations as a starting point, Trento or Bolzano, both reachable by train.

We wish it was possible to fly directly to the Dolomites, however, it’s possible just to admire it from above while landing in a nearby city. Not many know that you can get access to the Dolomites, also landing outside of Italy. In less than two hours driving, you can reach Bolzano from Innsbruck airport.

The nearest airports for our One-week Dolomites Itinerary it’s Verona Villafranca International Airport, but you can also land at Venice Marco Polo International Airport. Verona, it’s 1 hour from Trento, Venice it’s 1 hour and a half.

Verona Airport – 1 hour away Venice Marco Polo – 1 hour and a half away (Flixbus network available) Milan Bergamo – 2 hours (reachable by Flixbus)

We have reached the Dolomites by Train, travelling from Southern Italy, however, it is possible also from the north, travelling from Germany, Austria or Switzerland .

While travelling through Italy you can check the train timetable on the official website of Trenitalia. However we suggest you book your ticket in advance, the ticketing in Italy can be quite difficult to understand at first.

Getting around the Dolomites

Travelling through the Dolomites by public transport it’s impossible. The links exist, however it will make travelling time to your entire trip, which makes it impossible to be followed promptly. In the South-Tyrol Area, you can check the Public transport network website or using a Trentino Guest Card . This allows you to take public transport and access to activities and places.

You have to rent a car to do a proper itinerary. It’s possible to reach Bolzano or Trento by train or bus, but you have to hire a car from there. Book your car in advance checking the best deals online.

Hiring a car in the Dolomites

Was indeed an entire paragraph regarding hiring a car, and driving it through the Dolomites. Typically those are just one-lane roads, often snowy and full of mountain bends. So you need a Compact SUV or an all-wheel-drive car, which will safely take you all around.

You might understand that depending on when you are travelling to the Dolomites, the demand for car hire can be high or low. However talking with a local, this it’s never low. Expect to pay a fee between £60 to £200 for a week car hire, this excluding insurance, which will raise the price.

We suggest you compare some car hire and match the best price, depending on your needs. Remember always to request the policy on the road assistance, just in case, you never know.

Compare the car hire prices and find a bargain

Driving in the Dolomites

It’s not easy, believe us! Often talking with our friends, in general, about driving in Italy, it comes up as one of the hardest things to get used to while visiting Italy. Driving in the Dolomites it’s difficult because there are often just one-lane roads, steep and full of curves and hairpin bends.

Visiting the Dolomites in winter it’s more challenging, and requires a good dose of driving skills while snowing or facing paths that are often unpaved, covered with snow.

The Closer you are to the north of the Dolomites, the more you will find the signs in Italian and German. Visiting the area of South Tyrol is common, same as the name for the locations, towns and places. It’s required to use the GPS, you might find this useful especially driving at night.

Practice at home, before travelling to the Dolomites. However it is not the same, try to familiarize yourself with narrow roads. The mountains passes are beautiful but full of pitfalls, drive slowly, maintain the distance from your next car. The distance is short, but because of up and downs, it is a slow pace driving, which will prove your driving endurance. Don’t care about locals driving fast on those roads or pushing you to go faster, take your time and enjoy the view.

Depending on your Dolomites Itinerary you can choose the best location where to stay. In this Itinerary we cover the best of the ranges of the Italian Dolomites, taking you from the Trento Province to the Autonomous Bolzano Province, almost to the border with Austria .

For us the best way to enjoy a trip to the Dolomites in one week, it’s to find the perfect spot where to travel from. Renting a car will take you easily from your base to the location designed for daily activity. Below we have sorted a few locations we stayed in and some alternatives to consider. Bear in mind that the Dolomites hosts some of the best ski resorts in Italy .

Most beautiful place in the Dolomites

Where to stay in Val di Fassa

VAL DI FASSA | Dolomites Budget Hotel

Budget | Hotel Diamant Park

The hotel Diamant Park is perfect for families , with a good quality/price balance. The hotel is in Campitello di Fassa, surrounded by high peaks.

The Park Hotel and Club Diamant’s wellness centre offers a relaxation area with a pool with a jacuzzi area, a sauna and a Turkish bath.

BOOK YOUR STAY NOW

WHERE TO STAY IN TRENTO

Trento | budget stay in the dolomites.

Be Place is the ideal place for every season. The facilities are unique and a real bargain for the price. Located in a central position within Trento, you will enjoy long walks around the cobblestone alleys of the centre, or just get away on your bike surrounded by the high peaks. Definitely worth the money checking out.

VAL D’EGA | SOUTH TYROL

Val d’Ega is a beautiful valley in the Dolomites that is known for its stunning mountain scenery and outdoor activities like skiing and hiking. Among the best hikes we must include the Latemar massif. Visiting Val D’Ega you will see that the valley is home to several charming villages like Nova Levante, Carezza , and Nova Ponente, each offering a unique atmosphere and plenty of amenities for visitors.

One of the best things to do in Val d’Ega is to explore the nearby lakes, such as Lake Carezza and Lake Costalunga . These stunning alpine lakes are known for their crystal-clear waters and are a popular spot for swimming, fishing, and other water sports.

The Val D’Ega is well-connected to other destinations in the Dolomites , such as Cortina d’Ampezzo and Val Gardena, making it a convenient base for exploring the region.

WHERE TO STAY IN VAL D’EGA

Sport hotel passo carezza.

Sport Hotel in Carezza is the best accommodation in D’Ega valley, offering short distance from the slope in winter, and short distance from the refreshing shores of Lake Carezza in summer. The Hotel features a Spa, direct access to the ski-lift and is highly rated among travellers, making it a real bargain.

Respect the nature | Responsible Travel in the Dolomites

Often we are so enthusiastic about discovering new places that we forget how fragile the small ecosystem that surrounds us is. To preserve the area of the Dolomites, this became a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

The purpose’s to preserve the natural environment and to sensitize visitors not to contaminate and destroy this fantastic landscape. However, in recent years, over-tourism has put these places to a difficult test. Locations like the Lago di Braies, are becoming the instagrammable location in Trentino .

Which it’s good because it attracts tourism, however not all the travellers are responsible. A few handfuls of unruly tourists can destroy an ecosystem that took ages to become perfect as it is right now. The challenge to which we are called is to keep the territory pristine and make this beauty available for the next generations as well.

Just a few simple precautions can make the difference. Don’t litter and disperse plastic bottles or whatsoever, use instead of a reusable bottle with you. Organize a trip with friends, so you will use just one car to move around, and also split the costs. Avoid the crowds arriving on the spot early in the morning. Respect the local communities, be mindful of local rules and culture.

Travel Insurance

Nowadays booking travel insurance it’s becoming part of the travelling plan. It’s just a precaution and you should consider it even if you are an experienced traveller.

Planning an Itinerary through the Dolomites which includes activities like hiking and some other sports, it’s essential to have travel insurance. However, this is not just indicated because medical problems might occur, but also if your luggage gets lost, the connection between train and flight. Many Rental Cars agencies will lower the cost of car insurance if you have your Travel insurance , or this might cover entirely the costs of car accidents or damage to the car.

For us, having Travel Insurance it’s the way to enjoy our vacation with peace of mind.

Dolomites Alternative Itineraries

A 1-week full dolomites itinerary.

We know how it’s difficult to plan an itinerary of 7-day including flight and commuting from one destination to another. If you have an entire week to spend in the Dolomites, you can live this experience at a slow pace. We love it!

You might add a few locations we suggested to you and have a great time in the Dolomites. Often the itineraries in the Dolomites are split in the South Tyrol area and the Brenta Dolomites , leaving also Trento a bit behind the schedule. However, all these areas are charming and beautiful to visit.

Alternative 5-day Dolomites Itinerary

If you have a relatively short time to spend in Italy, and want to reduce this itinerary to just a 5-day Dolomites Itinerary , you should consider what you want to see at the most. Divide this trip through the South Tyrol area, visiting Lake Braies and the hike to the Tre Cime di Lavarone with a few lakes in between. Alternatively, you can base your trip entirely in Val di Sole and Val di Non with more sports activities.

Check the best lakes in the Dolomites worth a visit

2 weeks itineraries of Dolomites

This is what we call a slow pace travelling. The best way to enjoy the Dolomites fully it’s taking a 2 weeks itinerary. Having more time it’s not mean only visiting more places, but also spending more time in a single place.

Instead of travelling from place to place, and just have a look around, you might plan a few activities more in a single place and enjoy the scenery at different times of the day. You can easily organize your trip through a week spent in Val di Sol e and Val di Non , and the week after through Val di Funes and South Tyrol , spending a few days in Trento at the end of your trip.

| If you like it, you might also like |

Most beautiful lakes in the Dolomites Best Experiences to try in Trentino and the Dolomites A guide to the best cities in Italy to put in your bucket list

We might answer this by just showing off a photo. The Dolomites are the most beautiful natural scenery we have seen. Being a seascape addict, it’s hard to say that, but the Dolomites are the perfect destination for every kind of traveller. Everyone should visit the Dolomites at least once in their life. Some of the best ski chalets in Italy are in the Dolomites area, which it’s insanely beautiful with peaks that are not the highest in Europe, but still worth hiking. The biodiversity of the territory it’s unique, and the same is for the cultural heritage and the traditional cuisine, a middle way between the Italian and the Austrian/German.

Less than other Mountain Destinations in Europe. A wide range of prices makes the Dolomites an affordable destination for travellers in every season. However the most cost-effective period of the year it’s in summer.  Talking about accommodation costs, you can find a hotel on a budget of about 50-60 euro per night.  As far as Michelin-starred restaurants, the typical local restaurants are affordable too. Traditional meals are inexpensive, for a two-course lunch or dinner will cost about €20/€30. To resume a complete one-week itinerary in the Dolomites will cost everywhere about €1000/€1200, depending on your travelling style.

Following this guide, it’s fairly easy to plan a trip to the Dolomites. You should consider booking a flight to Northern Italy, Venice, Verona or Milan, alternatively Innsbruck in Austria. Find the places where to stay, and you can find it above in the post. Hire a car in advance and download our map for offline use. Pack your bag and follow our guide to the best places in the Dolomites.

YES! The Dolomites are ideal for nature lovers, and outdoors enthusiasts. It’s a cost-effective holiday, perfect for a winter trip with ski activities, but also summer itineraries with hikes and mountain sports.

Belluno! This city’s in the Veneto Region, but it’s not easy to reach by public transport from Venice Airport. However, planning to rent a car at the airport you can reach Belluno in about 1 hour. This is a small alpine town, nestled in the Dolomites, with the Piave river passing by.

We suggested a few places in our post, however, it’s good to highlight some Dolomites summer destinations . You can consider Val di Sole and Val di Non for the incredible sports activities and rich in hotels and tourist amenities. You might also consider the Val Gardena and Val di Funes in South Tyrol.

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We're Toti and Ale, avid travellers, award-winning writers, and photographers  living life one stamp at a time. We have been in more than 35 countries, hand in hand, offering inspiring guides on Italian Trip Abroad and other award-winning travel blogs. We are London-based, but we travel the world as Digital Nomads with a purpose: to help you travel more and better in a sustainable way . You can find us here, offering tips for backpackers, itineraries or guides to cross Italy and get on the most insane adventures. Join us as we explore off-the-beaten-path destinations, savour the beauty of slow travel, and make a positive impact on the places we visit.

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5 Day Dolomites Itinerary: BEST Dolomites Road Trip

Looking for the perfect 5 Day Dolomites Itinerary?

Get ready to hit the road for the ultimate adventure through the Dolomites – trust me, this isn’t your average road trip!

We’re talking about a wild ride through northern Italy, boasting stunning peaks, picturesque villages, and some of the clearest lakes you’ll ever see.

I personally explored the Dolomites for 5 days and this itinerary was excellent from start to end, and I highly recommend you follow it too.

Table of Contents

DOLOMITES ITINERARY – OVERVIEW

To help you plan your Dolomites itinerary, this is the Dolomites road trip route I took, starting and ending in Bolzano.

I highly recommend this route if you want to see the best of what the Dolomites have to offer.

Here is a quick glance at how to spend 5 days in Dolomites;

• Day 1: Arrive in Bolzano, rent a car, and drive to Ortisei
• Day 2: Discover Val Di Funes
• Day 3: Ortisei to San Candido (or Cortina d’Ampezzo)
• Day 4: Three Peak Nature Park (Tre Cime)
• Day 5: Lake Sorapis Trail and back to Bolzano

ALTERNATIVE DOLOMITES ITINERARY

In case you don’t want to fly into Bolzano, then you have 2 different itineraries:

• Fly to Milan, rent a car, and drive to Ortisei, following the itinerary above.
• Fly to Venice, rent a car, and follow the itinerary below:
• Day 1 : Drive to San Candido (or Cortina D’Ampezzo), and Lake Sorapis Trail
• Day 2 : Three Peak Nature Park (Tre Cime)
• Day 3 : San Candido (or Cortina d’Ampezzo) to Ortisei
• Day 4 : Discover Val Di Funes
• Day 5 : Drive back to Venice

If you don’t feel comfortable driving, then you could use public transportation around the Dolomites, but it’s not the most reliable.

For this reason, you’re better off booking a tour around the Dolomites , which is a convenient and easy way to see all the best spots.

WHERE ARE THE DOLOMITES?

The Dolomites are a mountain range located in northern Italy.

Specifically, they can be found in the regions of Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol, Veneto, and Friuli–Venezia Giulia.

The Dolomites are a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts because of their stunning peaks and unique rock formations.

Click here or on the image below for an interactive map of the Dolomites.

HOW TO GET TO THE DOLOMITES?

The best option is to fly to one of the airports around the region and rent a car .

There are several airports within driving distance of the Dolomites, including Bolzano, Venice, Treviso, Verona, Innsbruck, and Milan (I personally recommend Bolzano or Venice).

Each of these airports offers different flight options and rental car services, so starting from here is pretty easy.

HOW TO GET AROUND ON YOUR DOLOMITES ITINERARY?

Renting a car in Dolomites is definitely the way to go!

While public transportation is an option, it can be limited and may not reach all of the mountain villages and scenic drives that the area is famous for.

Additionally, having your own vehicle gives you the freedom to fully explore at your own pace, without having to worry about schedules or crowds.

Renting a car in Italy is relatively easy, and there are plenty of reputable companies to choose from.

Discover Cars is the company I booked my rental car with and I highly recommend them. They have many different categories of cars and the cheapest rates.

Car Rental – Search, Compare & Save!

Discover Cars are one of the world’s largest online car rental platforms with vehicles in 10,000+ locations.

Find the right car, in the right place, for the best price guaranteed!

BEST TIME TO VISIT THE DOLOMITES?

For hiking and outdoor activities, the summer months from June to September are considered the best time to visit the Dolomites.

During this period, the weather is typically warm and sunny, making it ideal for exploring the trails and enjoying the stunning landscapes.

July and August are the peak months for hiking due to the stable weather conditions.

If you’re interested in winter sports like skiing or snowboarding, the best time would be between December and April when the mountains are covered in snow.

To avoid crowds and enjoy a quieter visit, consider going in the shoulder seasons of May and June, or September and October during autumn.

These periods offer cool, settled weather and the chance to experience the Dolomites’ beauty without as many tourists.

5-DAY DOLOMITES ITINERARY

Now that we’ve covered all the logistics, let’s get to the fun stuff!

I’ll go through the itinerary day by day so that you can plan the perfect Dolomites road trip.

DAY 1: BOLZANO TO ORTISEI

For the first day of your Dolomites itinerary, you’ll want to arrive in Bolzano, rent a car, and drive to Ortisei, a picturesque village set in the heart of the Val Gardena.

From Bolzano to Ortisei it takes about 45 minutes boasting epic landscapes and breathtaking vistas at every turn.

Ortisei is a great place to stay for at least 2 nights as it is near the major spots on the west side of the Dolomites.

When you arrive, be prepared to be wowed by picturesque streets and charming cafes surrounded by epic mountain peaks.

THINGS TO DO IN ORTISEI

Once you have checked in to your hotel, it’s time to start exploring the incredible locations such as Alps di Siusi and Seceda Peak which I’ve gone into more detail below.

ALPS DI SIUSI

For your first stop, I recommend heading to Alps Di Siusi.

Take a breathtaking ride on the cable car up to the majestic Alps di Siusi, Europe’s largest alpine pasture and a true natural paradise.

From here you will be presented with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountain ranges.

The cable car costs 20 EUR per person (8.00 am to 6.00 pm), while the parking fee is 24 EUR, which is quite expensive but it’s definitely worth it for the views.

Once you’ve reached the top, get ready to explore miles of hiking trails, enjoy a picnic in the meadows, or simply bask in the tranquility of the mountains.

If you want to hike, make sure to stop at the tourist office to get a map of the marked trails.

I recommend taking the Saltria Hike which only takes 1 hour and allows you to see Seceda Peak afterward.

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SECEDA PEAK

After enjoying Alps Di Siusi, get back on the road and head over to Seceda Peak, one of the most remarkable vistas in the Dolomites.

To get here, you can take the cable car from Ortisei, which costs 27 EUR one way or 37 EUR round-trip per person.

You can park your car at the cable car station, and it will cost you 1.90 EUR per hour or 13 EUR per day.

I personally recommend taking the cable car to get to the top and walking back down to have a combination of views and exercise!

On the other hand, if you want to hike up and down, the circuit is 8.9 km long and takes around 3 hours with no break.

The Seceda Peak viewpoint is only about 5 minutes from the top of the cable car which is super convenient.

Walk along the ridgeline trail, take lots of photos, and prepare to be in awe when you see this landscape with your own eyes!

WHERE TO STAY IN ORTISEI

Ortisei has dozens of accommodation options to choose from, so I have narrowed it down to a few of the best places to stay to fit the needs of budget backpackers, luxury travelers, and everyone in between.

See the list of accommodations below that I personally recommend:

Luxury: Hotel Montchalet

Mid-Range: Hotel Grien

Budget: Villa Rier

CAMPERVAN PARKS NEAR ORTISEI

If you’re exploring the Dolomites by campervan, see the list below for recommended campervan parks near Ortisei:

• Camping Seiser Alm
• Camping Marmolada

DAY 2: VAL DI FUNES

On day 2 of your Dolomites road trip itinerary, set out to Val Di Funes for a day trip which is just 35 minutes from Ortisei

Val di Funes is a popular choice among hikers who love to wander the trails and for general travelers who love to be immersed in nature.

The journey up the valley itself is a treat as you wind through the narrow mountain roads, passing quaint hamlets and catching phenomenal views at every turn.

Once you arrive, you can park the car and roam around for a bit, take photos of the famous Church of St. John, and then head further up the valley to Geisler Alm.

THINGS TO DO IN VAL DI FUNES

Here are some unmissable things to see and do in Val di Funes.

VISIT THE CHURCH OF ST. JOHN

The stunning Church of St. John has risen to fame in recent years thanks to Instagram.

Located at the end of Val di Funes, this picturesque church is one of the most iconic and photographed places in the Dolomites.

What sets this charming church apart is its unique position amidst the awe-inspiring backdrop of the Geisler/Odle mountains in the Dolomites – it’s simply breathtaking

Many tourists and photographers come to the Val di Funes specifically to capture this picture-perfect scenery, especially during sunrise and sunset when the warm light bathes the mountains and enhances the beauty of the church.

The Church of St. John is not to be missed on your itinerary of Dolomites.

ADOLF MUNKEL WEG HIKE TO GEISLER ALM

The Adolf Munkel Weg hike is one of the most spectacular trails in the Dolomites, a journey through both woods and pastures, all while tracing along the Geisler/Odle mountain group.

The hike starts at the Zanzer Alm Parking Lot and this moderately challenging route takes around 3 to 4 hours to complete, covering a distance of about 9.2 km.

However, the duration can vary depending on your walking pace and how often you stop to enjoy the stunning views or snap photos.

The stand-out attraction on this hike is Geisler Alm itself, an alpine pasture that is one of the most beautiful in South Tyrol, offering an incredible view of the Geisler Peaks.

Before embarking on this hike, please note that trail can be steep and rugged in parts, so sturdy hiking boots are essential.

Also, remember to pack plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, and your camera!

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VAL GARDENA

After hiking to Geisler Alm, it’s time to make your way back to Ortisei and Val Gardena to enjoy the rest of what this place has to offer.

Val Gardena is made up of three municipalities – Ortisei, Santa Cristina, and Selva Val Gardena. Needless to say, all three are worth visiting.

I recommended exploring Ortisei on day 1 of this itinerary, but if you didn’t have enough time, then this is your chance.

Wander around, have a meal at the cafe, visit the museum, and take some photos.

Santa Cristina is another incredible town to visit, with similar vibes to Ortisei, you will not only have mountain views but also authentic cafes and restaurants, as well as Santa Cristina Church.

Last but not least, keep some time to check out Selva Val Gardena, a spectacular place to see the ruins of Wolkenstein Castle, the viewpoint over the town, and plenty of dining options.

I suggest having dinner here before making your way back to Ortisei for the night.

DAY 3: ORTISEI TO SAN CANDIDO (OR CORTINA D’AMPEZZO)

On day 3, it’s time to depart Ortisei to the picturesque San Candido in the eastern Dolomites, which takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes by car.

Alternatively, you can choose to stay in Cortina d’Ampezzo, which has plenty of great hotels and it’s also closer to the majority of the attractions and hiking trails.

THINGS TO DO ON THE WAY TO SAN CANDIDO

Between Ortisei and San Candido, I recommend stopping on the way to check out some must-see spots which I have listed below.

The first stop on the way to San Candido or Cortina is Bruneck.

Also known as Brunico, there are a few attractions that you can squeeze into your schedule.

Brunico Castles : Take a quick drive up to this historic castle for a glimpse of its structure. You may not have time to tour the interior, but the view of the castle against the backdrop of the Dolomites is worth it.

Bruneck City Center : The center is an open-air museum, and you’ll love hanging out for a while before resuming the road.

Ursuline Church : This church is located right in the city center and is worth a quick visit due to its beautiful architecture.

WELSBERG CASTLE

As you journey through the Dolomites, a swift stop at Welsberg Castle (also known as Monguelfo Castle) is an excellent idea.

Nestled in the quaint town of Monguelfo-Tesido (Welsberg-Taisten), this medieval castle offers a glimpse into the region’s rich history.

If time allows, take a moment to wander along the Castle Path that leads up to the castle for a closer look.

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ARRIVAL IN SAN CANDIDO (OR CORTINA D’AMPEZZO)

When you arrive in San Candido (or Cortina D’Ampezzo) you’ll want to check into your hotel and head straight out to explore!

Consider visiting all or some of the following attractions listed below.

LAGO DI BRAIES

Lago di Braies is an absolute must on everyone’s Dolomites road trip itinerary.

Known as one of Italy’s most beautiful lakes, this bright blue mountain lake in the heart of the mountains offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Lago di Braies is located only 25 minutes from San Candido or about 50 minutes from Cortina d’Ampezzo and it’s a short 1-minute walk to reach the lake from the parking lot.

Take a leisurely walk around the lake on the well-maintained trail, or for a truly memorable experience, rent one of the traditional wooden rowboats available at the lake.

Lago di Braies is also a great spot for photography enthusiasts thanks to its stunning natural beauty.

Don’t forget to capture the iconic boathouse against the backdrop of the lake and the majestic Dolomites.

Lastly, if you’re up for a sweat, don’t miss out on the Alta Via 1 hike , one of the coolest activities around Lago di Braies!

LAGO DI MISURINA

After Lago Di Braies, it’s time to visit Lago Di Misurina, the largest natural lake in the Cadore region sitting 1,754 meters above sea level.

The lake’s crystal-clear waters reflect the surrounding peaks, creating a breathtaking panorama perfect for photography enthusiasts.

Take a leisurely stroll around the lake to appreciate its beauty fully. The trail is easily accessible and suitable for all ages, making it a great family-friendly activity.

Along the way, you’ll find several benches where you can sit back and soak up the serene atmosphere.

In case you have limited time during the day, I suggest you come after the Tre Cime di Lavaredo hike on day 4.

FUN BOB LUGE

If you’re up for an exhilarating activity, then the Fun Bob Luge in San Candido is the perfect adventure for you!

The Fun Bob Luge is one of the most popular summer attractions in the area which offers a thrilling ride down the mountainside on a specially designed sled.

The ride starts beside the top of the chairlift, leading you on a winding journey through breathtaking scenery.

The luge is suitable for all ages and costs just 15.50 EUR per person.

WHERE TO STAY IN SAN CANDIDO

San Candido has dozens of accommodation options to choose from, so I have narrowed it down to a few of the best places to stay to fit the needs of budget backpackers, luxury travelers, and everyone in between.

Luxury: Naturhotel Leitlhof

Mid-Range: Hotel Andermax

Budget: Residence Rogger

WHERE TO STAY IN CORTINA D’AMPEZZO

In case you decide to stay in Cortina d’Ampezzo, which is a great alternative, see the list of accommodations below that I recommend:

Luxury: Hotel De Len

Mid-Range: Hotel Serena Cortina

Budget: Antelao Dolomiti Mountain Resort

CAMPERVAN PARKS NEAR SAN CANDIDO & CORTINA D’AMPEZZO

See the list below for recommended campervan parks near San Candido:

• Camping Olympia
• Camping Toblacher See

See the list below for recommended campervan parks near Cortina D’Ampezzo:

• Camping Dolomiti
• International Camping Olympia

DAY 4: TRE CIME NATURE PARK

On Day 4, you’re heading to one of the most iconic locations in this region – Tre Cime Nature Park.

Parco Naturale Tre Cime is home to the famous Tre Cime di Lavaredo (Three Peaks of Lavaredo), one of the most recognizable mountain groups in the Alps.

With hiking trails that cater to all skill levels, this park is the perfect day trip in the great outdoors.

TRE CIME DI LAVAREDO HIKE

The trek around Tre Cime di Lavaredo is a loop trail that spans approximately 10 kilometers (6.2 miles).

Tre Cime trail is predominantly flat and well-maintained, making it accessible to all levels, and the entire loop takes about 4-5 hours to complete.

While there are mountain huts along the way where you can purchase food, it’s always a good idea to bring plenty of your own supplies such as water and snacks.

Also, wear comfortable hiking shoes and dress in layers because even in summer, it can get chilly at higher altitudes.

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Your journey begins at Rifugio Auronzo, a mountain hut situated at 2,340 meters (7,677 feet) above sea level.

You can reach Rifugio Auronzo by car or bus and there’s ample parking available, but it tends to fill up quickly during peak season so you’ll want to arrive early.

From Rifugio Auronzo, follow the marked trail and you’ll be immediately greeted by stunning views of the Tre Cime and surrounding mountains.

The trail initially takes you to Rifugio Lavaredo, which is a great spot to take a break and fuel up before continuing on the trail to Forcella Lavaredo, the highest point of the trek at 2,450 meters (8,038 feet).

As you descend from Forcella Lavaredo, you’ll pass by the striking Cappella degli Alpini, a small chapel dedicated to fallen Alpine soldiers.

The trail then leads you to Rifugio Locatelli, another mountain hut where you can rest and snack on some food.

After leaving Rifugio Locatelli, continue following the trail back to Rifugio Auronzo to complete the loop.

CADINI DI MISURINA VIEWPOINT

After the Tre Cime hike, if you still have some energy left to continue hiking, I highly recommend the Cadini Di Misurina Viewpoint Trail.

The hike is moderately challenging and takes approximately 45 minutes each way.

You’ll access the trail from Rifugio Auronzo where you initially parked the car for the first hike, which is great because you can do both trails at once.

From here, the trail initially descends before climbing up the opposite ridgeline, leading you to the stunning Cadini Di Misurina viewpoint.

Once at the viewpoint, you’ll be greeted by a breathtaking spectacle – the sharp pinnacles of the Cadini mountain group rising majestically from the landscape.

Don’t forget to bring your camera because the view is truly Instagram-worthy!

BACK TO SAN CANDIDO

After a successful hiking day, you’ll be more than ready to go back to your accommodation in San Candido or Cortina d’Ampezzo.

Get some rest, have a filling dinner, and get ready for day 5, the last day of this Dolomites itinerary.

DAY 5: LAKE SORAPIS TRAIL

On the final day of your Dolomites road trip itinerary, the Lake Sorapis Trail is a must.

This moderate hike is a highlight of the region, leading you to the turquoise waters of Lake Sorapis nestled amidst towering peaks.

Good hiking boots are recommended, and always remember to bring plenty of water and snacks.

From San Candido, you’ll get there in about 45 minutes heading south toward Belluno. From Cortina d’Ampezzo, you can reach the lake in just 25 minutes.

You have a few options, you can hike around the lake which is 1.1 km long and takes around 45 minutes to complete with photo stops or hike the full trail which is 11.6 km long.

Alternatively, instead of taking the in-and-out trail, another option is to do the full loop, passing by Forcella Marcuoira on the way back, but that’s a more challenging option.

No matter which route you choose, as soon as you get to Lake Sorapis, you’ll be rewarded with the sight of its distinctive turquoise waters set against the backdrop of the Dolomites.

DOLOMITES ROAD TRIP – FAQ

Driving around and exploring the strikingly beautiful Dolomites is an experience like no other.

Here are some handy travel tips and things to know before you begin your Dolomites itinerary 5 days.

ARE 5 DAYS IN DOLOMITES ENOUGH?

5 days in Dolomites is enough to visit iconic locations like Tre Cime di Lavaredo, hike to stunning viewpoints like Seceda Peak, and explore charming towns like Cortina d’Ampezzo or San Candido.

You’ll likely have enough time for a mix of outdoor activities, sightseeing, and relaxation.

However, if you’re keen on doing multiple long hikes or exploring more remote areas, you might find 5 days limiting, and I recommend staying for 7 or 10 days.

ARE THE DOLOMITES WORTH VISITING?

Absolutely, the Dolomites are worth visiting because it’s simply breathtaking.

There is a plethora of activities for all seasons – in the warmer months, you can enjoy hiking, biking, and rock climbing, and in winter the region transforms into a snowy paradise perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.

You can explore charming mountain villages, visit historic churches, and sample delicious local cuisine. What else do you need on a vacation to Italy?!

HOW MANY MOUNTAINS ARE THERE IN THE DOLOMITES?

There are 2,200 named mountains in the Dolomites and 18 significant peaks which rise to above 3,000 meters.

These majestic peaks cover an area of 141,903 hectares and offer some of the most stunning landscapes in the world.

ARE THE DOLOMITES ITALIAN OR GERMAN?

The Dolomites are located in northern Italy. They are a part of the Southern Limestone Alps and extend from the River Adige in the west to the Piave Valley in the east.

The region is rich in culture and history, with influences from both Italian and German traditions due to its proximity to the Austrian border.

Although situated in Italy, the Dolomites have a multilingual heritage. In certain areas, German is widely spoken alongside Italian and the local language, Ladin.

So, geographically, the Dolomites are Italian, but culturally, they have a blend of Italian and German influences which makes this region uniquely fascinating.

WHAT ARE THE BEST SCENIC DRIVES IN DOLOMITES?

The Great Dolomites Road from Bolzano to Cortina d’Ampezzo offers some of the most breathtaking scenery.

Other notable drives include the Gardena Pass, the route through Val Di Funes and St. Magdalena, and the road around the stunning Lake Misurina.

WHAT IS THE CURRENCY IN THE DOLOMITES?

The currency used in the Dolomites, like the rest of Italy, is the Euro (€). It’s advisable to have some cash on hand for smaller places where card payments may not be accepted.

However, credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops.

ARE THE DOLOMITES EXPENSIVE?

Yes, the Dolomites in Italy are expensive. And while accommodation ranges widely, budget options start at €50-100 per night.

Car rental is around €50-100 per day, plus parking fees. Expect to spend around €30 per person per day on food. Additional costs like fuel and tolls can add up.

Of course, the cost of your itinerary depends on your lifestyle but I recommend budgeting €250 per person per day as a solo traveler or €200 per day per person as a couple.

WHAT TO PACK FOR THE DOLOMITES?

Here is a list of items I highly recommend bringing with you:

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FINAL THOUGHTS – DOLOMITES ITINERARY 5 DAYS

I hope you enjoyed reading this article, and if you have any questions, please drop me a comment below this post, and I will get back to you as soon as I can.

For a quicker response, be sure to join  Jonny Melon’s Travel Tribe  on Facebook and post your questions or recommendations to our awesome community.

TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or it’s your first trip overseas, here are some useful travel resources to help you kick-start your next adventure!

Search and book accommodation worldwide.

Compare and book cheap flights to anywhere.

Find tickets, tours, and experiences around the world.

Book buses, trains, and transfers online in advance.

Search all rental cars in your next destination.

Need travel insurance for your next trip?

THANKS FOR READING

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Quiz: Which San Diego Adventure is Right for You? 

THE ULTIMATE 5 DAY DOLOMITES ROAD TRIP ITINERARY

Summary: A breakdown of my day by day Dolomites road trip itinerary plus my suggested packing list.

The Dolomites in Italy had always been on my bucket list after seeing pictures of the mountains all over Instagram. I wasn’t quite sure what to expect, but after visiting, the Dolomites quickly became one of my favorite places in the world. 

Because I love this place so much, I wanted to share my ultimate 5 day Dolomites road trip itinerary with you. In this guide, you will find all the information on where to stay, what to see, and even my suggested Dolomites packing list. 

This itinerary is also perfectly suited for the outdoor adventurer and photographer!

I have been to quite a few mountainous areas like Colorado, New Zealand, Montana, and much more!

PLANNING THE ULTIMATE DOLOMITES ROAD TRIP: ESSENTIAL THINGS TO KNOW

The Dolomites are a dramatic mountain range located in Northern Italy close to Austria and Switzerland. In the quaint towns within the region, you will be surprised to find Austrian-inspired architecture as the Dolomites were actually part of Austria at one point before they became a part of Italy. 

There are some essential things you should know prior to planning your Dolomites vacation. 

HOW TO GET TO THE DOLOMITES

Getting to the Dolomites can be a little difficult as it is quite remote, but don’t let that deter you from visiting. I am here to help you plan this trip and to make it as smooth as possible for you!

As you will find below, the Dolomites is best explored by car as many of the locations are spread out and public transportation is not easily accessible here. First, let’s talk about what airport you need to fly into. 

So, how did we personally get to the Dolomites? We had been exploring Italy for two weeks prior to visiting the Dolomites, so for us, we needed to figure out the best spot to go from. 

And that was Venice. Here is exactly what we did. 

First off, did you know Venice does not have any cars? Everything is done via a water taxi. So, we left our Airbnb in the morning and took a water taxi from our Airbnb to the Marco Polo Venice airport. Once we arrived at the airport, we rented a car and drove for 3.5 hours to the Dolomites region. 

After much research, we went with Budget car rentals and chose a small SUV for our Dolomites road trip. The final cost came out to around $500 for 5 days of a car rental. 

Tip: European cars tend to have smaller trunks than American cars. If you are anything like us you packed a lot for this trip but don’t want to take it all with you to the Dolomites. There are storage lockers in Venice that cost around $65 for the 5 days.

Another great option would be to fly into Milan, rent a car, and drive four hours to reach your destination. Northern Italy can be reached by multiple airports, but regardless of which airport you choose you will need to rent a car and drive to your end destination in the Dolomites. 

Below you can find the driving times from the surrounding airports:

Budapest, Hungary-9 hours

Milan, Italy-4 hours

Munich, Germany-3-4 hours

Zurich, Switzerland 5-6 hours

Venice, Italy- 3.5 hours

BEST TIME TO VISIT THE DOLOMITES

Honestly, the Dolomites can be visited at any time of year, but personally, I think the best time to visit is in the Fall season. Let’s talk about why below. 

In the winter, this area becomes a huge ski region, therefore if you are not into skiing then this might not be the best time for you. Although the snow-capped mountains are probably gorgeous I would say there is not much to do other than ski during the winter. 

Visiting in the Fall allows you to still be able to hike the mountain ranges as well as experience the glory of all the Fall colors. During this season, you will most likely find fewer crowds, great weather, and “off-season” prices. 

For your best chance at seeing Fall colors, I recommend visiting in October. We visited October 15th-19th and the colors were just starting to pop. 

Do note, the Dolomites region is essentially a tourist town. If you choose to visit in the off-season you may find a lot of the hotels and restaurants have already closed for the season and don’t re-open until ski season begins. 

This doesn’t mean you can’t visit during that time of year, it just means you may have to pack a few extra snacks for your hikes and day trips. 

HOW MUCH TIME TO SPEND IN THE DOLOMITES

Man, I could spend forever in the Dolomites haha. This mountain region was so magical to me and there are a never-ending amount of lakes and mountains to explore. BUT, if we must narrow it down, then I recommend spending anywhere between 5-7 days here. 

Our trip was basically split up into two main regions: Ortisei and Cortina D’ Ampezzo. 

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING

-There are a lot of tolls on the major highways, so be prepared to pay for these. Credit card is accepted

-There are a lot of speed cameras. Our rental car actually beeped and warned us when a speed camera was coming up. 

-Most people speak English here, so it was fairly easy to get by

-If you are visiting the off-season a lot of the refugios, hotels, and restaurants will be closed for the season. 

-Although there are a ton of beautiful hotels with insane views, we opted to stay in Airbnbs as those were definitely the more affordable options

-It can get quite cold being high up in the mountains, so make sure to check out my packing list below. 

-The Euro is the currency used in the Dolomites, but we found most places accepts card 

SPECIFIC TIPS FOR DRIVING IN THE DOLOMITES (Seiser area)

-It is forbidden to drive in the meadow region of Seiser Alm

-If driving in the Seiser Alm region, you can only drive before 9am and you can’t go any further than the main parking lot in Compatsch. 

-You can’t drive up the roads between 9am-5pm; however if you arrived before 9am you can drive down any time you want

DOLOMITES ROAD TRIP ITINERARY DAY BY DAY

Alright, let’s get to it! I hope you use this Dolomites road trip itinerary to help you plan your trip and have the time of your life!

Below I will discuss the highlights that you shouldn’t miss. For your first two nights, you will be staying in the town of Ortisei.

DAY 1 OF YOUR DOLOMITES ROAD TRIP

The first day of your Dolomites road trip itinerary is all about driving to your destination. Most of your morning and early afternoon will consist of picking up your car and driving to your destination. 

You will be staying in the town of Ortisei. Your first day is what I like to call the “let’s get settled in” day. So, you will only be making one stop this day.

I recommend stopping for lunch somewhere in town and then grabbing some groceries prior to seeing your first Dolomites attraction. 

Stop 1: St. Valentin Church

This church can be easily accessed via a short walk. There are two routes to get to this chapel. 

Either begin near the village center of Seis and look for a brick-paved path that winds up the hillside toward the chapel. You will come across another path carved under a row of trees that brings you to the chapel steps. 

Or if you want an even shorter option drive to the destination, find a place to park along the road, and just walk to the chapel. There are areas that are fenced off, so please remember to follow the LNT principles and avoid those areas. 

Stop 2: Malga Sanon

If you are looking for a great sunset location then I recommend your next stop being Malga Sanon. We were able to drive directly to this location. There is a refugio here where you could normally grab something to eat, but it was closed when we visited.

Here you will find a tiny playground with a swing. I have never swung on a swing with a more gorgeous backdrop. See the picture below. 

Optional Stop: Lago Di Carezza

If you have additional time, I recommend stopping at Lago di Carezza. We, unfortunately, ran out of time and were not able to make it here, but the pictures look gorgeous. It is about 30 minutes out of the way.

If you are coming from Venice, then I would recommend making this stop first. This lake is often called “Rainbow Lake” due to its extravagant colors. This entire lake is now fenced off, so again please respect the LNT policies and do not hop the fence for a better picture. 

Our accommodation for the night was in a cute Airbnb in the town of Ortisei. We split the cost with another couple we were traveling with. 

DAY 2 OF YOUR DOLOMITES ROAD TRIP

Our original plan was to hike Seceda, but because we were visiting in the off-season the Gondola to get here was closed-meaning we would have had to hike about 9.5 miles. Although I am up for a good hike, I happened to be 23 weeks pregnant during this trip and that didn’t sound all that fun to me. 

I have heard this hike is quite steep and can be cold, so if you choose to do it make sure you pack enough layers and lots of water!

Stop 1: Gondola the hike to Saltria

We chose to take the Mount Seuc Gondola located right in the town of Ortisei to the top and from there we began a different hike. 

There were multiple hiking route options once we reached the top: we chose to hike to Saltria. The signposts give you an idea as to how long each hike should take.

The hike to Saltria was gorgeous and mostly downhill the whole way. Once we reached the town of Saltria we found a refugio that was open for lunch, so we refueled our bodies with some bratwurst before beginning the uphill trek back to the Gondola. 

Stop 2: Val Di Funes 

It takes about 45 minutes to get to the Val Di Funes area from Ortisei. After a long day of hiking, we chose to watch the sunset in this area. Here you will find some of the most beautiful churches. 

Your first stop will be at one of the most photographed places in the Dolomites, the church of Santa Magdalena. Unfortunately, you cannot drive up to the famous viewpoint for this church, but there is a small parking lot close by, and from there you can hike 20 minutes uphill to the viewpoint.  

You will need to get back in your car to drive to the next location. (You can walk between the two destinations, but it will take you about 30 minutes. 

Your second stop will be the Church of St. Johann (on google maps this is listed as Kirche St. Johann in Ranui). This church has an insanely beautiful background. There is a wooden viewing platform close to the parking lot. You can visit the inside of the church itself, but it does cost money.

Personally, I think the views are best from the wooden viewing platform. 

We stayed in the same Airbnb in Ortisei this night: Brand new Airbnb 2BR 2BA – $674 Total for 2 Nights ($337 each)

DAY 3 OF YOUR DOLOMITES ROAD TRIP

Stop 1: gardena pass.

Our morning started off with a sunrise photo session at Gardena Pass as we headed towards the next area of the Dolomites that we would be staying in. 

This is a super scenic mountain pass that connects Val Gardena with Val Badia ultimately getting you to your next destination of Cortina d’Ampezzo. 

For sunrise, I recommend stopping at Rifugio Frara where you can park and reach an epic view of the Sella mountains.  

This pass is beautiful both at sunrise and sunset, but if you are using my Dolomites road trip itinerary then I recommend stopping here for sunrise, so you can explore more places the rest of the day. 

Stop 2: Lago di Landro

This is a beautiful lake that is right along the road. You barely even have to walk to get to it. Lago means lake and as you will see there are tons of lakes in the Dolomites region that you can stop at. Some require a hike, others are right off the road. 

This is of course another beautiful lake. There is a trail that you can walk around the lake here if time permits. 

Stop 2: Lake Misurina

For sunset, we chose to go to Lake Misurina. There is a beautiful path along the lake that you can walk around as well. If it is cold, grab a cup of hot tea from the cafe right on the lake. In the summertime, you can also rent canoes and paddle out on this lake.

Optional stop: Lago di Sorapis

Instead of visiting the two lakes above, you could hike to Lago di Sorapis this day. We were pretty tired from our hike yesterday and waking up early this morning (plus being pregnant) so we decided to make today a bit slower. 

This looks like a gorgeous hike and one day I plan to go back to visit, but for now, check out this article that gives you all the details on hiking here.  

Your accommodations for the next few nights will be in the town of Cortina d’Ampezzo. Stay at: Chalet Falorie Airbnb 2BR 2BA – $527 Total for 2 nights  

DAY 4 OF YOUR DOLOMITES ROAD TRIP

Today we decided to focus on some photography, so we chose a sunrise location and a sunset location for the day. In the middle of the day, we chose to head back to our Airbnb nap and edit some photos. 

Stop 1: Lago di Antorno

Yet another beautiful lake that is right off the side of the road. We chose to go here for sunrise and were blessed with some insane colors. It was freezing in the morning, so make sure to dress appropriately. 

Stop 2: Candini di Misurina

For sunset tonight you will be hiking around the Tre Cime de Lavaredo area. You will be doing the hike to Candini di Misurina; however, if you don’t want to relax in the middle of the day as we did then you could add on the Tre Cime de Lavaredo loop hike. 

The Tre Cime de Lavaredo loop hike is a 10km loop that I have heard is fairly easy. On this hike, you will see the three iconic peaks you probably see in a lot of photos. This hike as well as the Cadini di Misurina hike begins and finishes at Rifugio Auronzo. The Tre Cime de Lavaredo loop is best done counterclockwise

You will find multiple parking lots at this Rifugio; however, to get here you will need to pay 30 EUR to enter this park. It takes about 40 minutes to get here from Cortina d’Ampezzo. 

If you don’t want to do this loop then I recommend the short hike to Cadini di Misurina. Personally, I think this location is more stunning and the hike is shorter. A win-win. 

To get to this location, you will hike in the opposite direction of Tre Cime. You can check out my Youtube video for exact directions and what it looks like as it can be a bit confusing. Essentially look for signs marked trail 117. The path is a little discreet. 

If you are afraid of heights this path may not be for you as it is narrow and there are some steep drop-offs, but it is beautiful once you reach the endpoint. 

This place is truly awe-inspiring. It took us about 30 minutes to get here, it was an easy hike and we almost had the place to ourselves. It is a great location for sunset too! Just bring headlamps for your hike back out. 

DAY 5 OF YOUR DOLOMITES ROAD TRIP

Your final day exploring the Dolomites! And maybe my most favorite location on this entire list. Today you will be visiting Lago Di Braies for sunrise. 

Stop 1: Lago Di Braies

If you are staying in the town of Cortina d’Ampezzo then it will be about a 50-minute drive from here. I highly recommend arriving here before sunrise as the parking lot does fill up. This is one of the most popular lakes to photograph. 

You will find tons of photographers here so if you want to get a good spot you will need to arrive early. 

While here you can take a walk on the trail that goes around the whole lake or you can rent a rowboat to go out on the lake. I highly recommend renting one. Personally, I thought it was fun, romantic, and worth the photos. 

The boathouse opens around 930am and costs €25 EUR for one hour, €15 EUR for every 30 minutes after that. The line did get really long, so again this is why I recommend arriving early. 

If you get cold while waiting for the rowboats to open there is a little cafe within walking distance of the lake where you can grab some hot chocolate, coffee, and breakfast. 

After you finish your time at Lago Di Braies it will be time to return to your starting point. For us, this meant driving back to the Venice airport and returning our rental car. 

DOLOMITES PACKING GUIDE

If you are planning to visit in the Fall, prepare yourself for cold weather. The brisk air at these altitudes in the mountains will get ya. Below I have listed out some of my favorite gear to keep me warm. 

It is always important to start with a base layer. When purchasing a baselayer you want to find something that is made out of Merino Wool as this will help wick away any moisture. Avoid cotton. My favorite long sleeve base layer tops and bottoms are from Kari Traa . It is important to have a top and bottom base layer. 

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A mid-layer is another important piece to layering to keep you warm. Kari Traa again offers a great pullover as a mid-layer option. The Patagonia Los Gatos ¼ zip is another one of my favorites. I have it in brown. 

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OUTER LAYER

Your outer layer is extremely important for those bitterly cold days. I would ensure you bring a thicker coat as well as a waterproof layer. For a longer layer, I have the Sundowner Jacket from KAVU . For my waterproof layer, I went with the Marmot Precip Eco Jacket .  Lastly, for extra warmth, I love my Arc’teryx Cerium LT Hooded Down Jacket.

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My favorite boot that you can hike in or just walk around town in is the Blundstone Classic 550 Chelsea boot . If you are looking for a sturdier boot, then I recommend the waterproof Danner Addrika Hiking Boot . And if you don’t like the ankle support then I recommend the KEEN Voyageur Hiking Shoe .

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ACCESSORIES

These are some of my favorite must-have accessories to keep me warm while on the trails. My hands always get cold so I purchased these iphone compatible Icebreaker Sierra Gloves . Of course, you need to keep your ears warm. I have found the ultimate beanie that keeps you warm in the winter. And lastly, this has become my favorite day hiking backpack that is affordable and can fit everything you need in it for the day. 

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FINAL THOUGHTS FROM YOUR OUTDOOR LOVING GIRL

As always, never forget to follow the Leave no trace principles, so that we can leave the Dolomites a better place for the next people to visit. I hope you found this Dolomites road trip itinerary helpful for planning.

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Easy Dolomites road trip itinerary for 3-7 days

Last updated on March 16th, 2024.

The Italian Dolomites ( Dolomiten in German) make an ideal Italian winter getaway. 

A region more beautiful beneath a dusting of snow, there are plenty of things to do in the Dolomites. 

In this post, I’ll be sharing all the places we visited on our 3-day Dolomites road trip itinerary.

The itinerary can also be extended to 7 days in the Dolomites should you prefer to space it out. It all depends on the type of activities you plan to do and how long you spend in each place.  

Use this guide to personalize your own Dolomites itinerary and to plan your own Italy trip .

One of the best places in Italy to visit , visiting the Dolomites is perfect Italy bucket list material. 

Where are the Dolomites? 

The Dolomites are a mountain range in northeastern Italy.  

They’re famous for their unique rock formations, which are primarily composed of a type of carbonate rock called dolomite. 

It’s a destination that’s ideal for spending winter in Italy or a cool European summer vacation .

How to get to the Dolomites 

How to get to the Dolomites all depends on your starting point.  

For us living in the north of Italy ( Vicenza, Veneto ) the journey is a straightforward one. Our drive to the Dolomites can range from 2 to 3 hours, depending on which part we’re visiting. 

For many international passengers, the journey usually begins at Verona Airport ( Aeroporto Valerio Catullo ). It’s one of many international airports in Italy and the closest for visiting the Dolomites. 

Hiring a car 

From here, there are several options for traveling to the Dolomites. One is to rent a car . I’d advise doing this in advance as much as possible, especially if you plan to visit the Dolomites in winter .  

It’s a busy time of year and you’ll be lining up alongside Italian visitors and other international travelers. 

However, it’s possible to customize a Dolomites itinerary without a car. It requires a little more planning and a lot more patience but it’s doable. 

Traveling by train 

Traveling by train is one of the easiest ways to get to the Dolomites from Verona. This choice may be cumbersome for travelers arriving with skiing gear but it’s ideal for those traveling without. 

Trains frequently run from Verona Porta Nuova station to Bolzano-Bozen, with a journey time of around 1hr 28mins. 

From Bolzano, regional trains and buses will take you to some of the best places to see in the Dolomites. Some of these places will also make an ideal Dolomites day trip. They include: 

• Ortisei 
• Cortina d’Ampezzo 
• Castelrotto 
• Corvara in Badia 

Can you visit the Dolomites without a car? 

While it’s possible to visit the Dolomites without a car, having one makes touring the Dolomites more convenient. 

Take the following example.  

The drive from Bolzano to Lake Carezza is a smooth and straightforward 35 minutes. By bus from Bolzano, you’re looking at a journey time of around 1hr, which doesn’t factor in stops or traffic.  

Dolomites tour 

Another alternative option for visiting the Dolomites without a car is to book a Dolomites tour. Wholly convenient and led by an experienced guide, tours of the Dolomites remove the stress of planning it yourself.  

Some tours I’d personally book include: 

The Dolomites tour from Lake Garda 

The Dolomites tour from Lake Garda (approximately 11-hours) includes a visit to towns like Moena, Ortisei and many more. It also includes visiting the Pordoi pass, from which you can enjoy aerial views over Catinaccio, Marmolada and Sella. 

The Dolomites day trip from Venice 

This Dolomites day trip from Venice  full-day tour (approximately 9-10 hours) will take you around the best of the region. Enjoy visits to Cortina d’Ampezzo, Lake Misurina and many, many more. 

Semi-private Dolomites day tour from Verona 

Experience the best views of the Dolomites on this semi-private Dolomites day tour from Verona (approximately 10 hours).

Visit the Val di Fassa, eat lunch in a pretty Alpine village and continue to the Pordoi Pass. The tour also includes a funicular ride to the top of the Piz Boè mountain. 

Best Dolomites road trip itinerary for 3-7 days 

Bolzano (bozen) .

The capoluogo of South Tyrol, Bolzano is a great starting point for any Dolomites road trip itinerary.  

There are plenty of things to do in Bolzano , most of which you can do in 1 day. Explore Bolzano’s colorful town center, visit Piazza Walther, pass by its cathedral and discover the 5,300-year-old mummy. 

Bolzano also makes an ideal place for exploring other places in and around the Dolomites. The public transport connections are good, as are the roads and highways that lead to other places of interest. 

There’s no particular order in which to see the following places. Choose which of these towns and destinations you most want to add to your Dolomites road trip itinerary. 

Bressanone and Vipiteno (Brixen/Sterzing) 

Bressanone and Vipiteno are two small towns in South Tyrol situated north of Bolzano.  

Bressanone’s town center is bigger than Vipiteno’s, many of its attractions which you can easily see in 1 day. Stroll the cobblestone streets, enter its magnificent Duomo and eat traditional Tyrolese food at one of Bressanone’s many excellent eateries. 

On to Vipiteno 

Vipiteno’s town center consists of one main street, Città Nuova (New City). It eventually leads to the ‘older’ part of Vipiteno, which is called Via Città Vecchia (By Old City). Città Nuova is a photogenic street lined with colorful Alpine-style buildings.  

Halfway between the old and new parts is the Tower of the Twelve (Torre delle Dodici/Zwölferturm).   A striking granite clock tower, Torre delle Dodici is known for its unique facade and for the midday bells.

A town so small, but so charming to see in person, it’s worth adding to your Dolomites road trip itinerary. 

For reference, we spent a night at Hotel Restaurant Lilie in Vipiteno. Its location is right on Città Nuova and the rooms are large, cozy and rustic.  

Hotel Restaurant Lilie, Città Nuova, 49 

Suggested length of stay (to see both towns): 1 day and night 

Dolomites road map itinerary

Castelrotto (Kastelruth) 

The gateway to the Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Alm), Castelrotto is popular among skiers, hikers and outdoor travelers. 

But Castelrotto is more than just a destination for outdoorsy types.  

Explore the delightful town center to view the traditional Tyrolean architecture and the Campanile di Castelrotto. Belonging to the Church of St. Peter and St. Paul, the baroque bell tower stands at around 262ft (80m).  

Campanile di Castelrotto, Via Platten, 10A 

We spent the night in Castelrotto at Hotel Zum Turm . With a central location in Castelrotto, the town center was 2 minutes away on foot. 

Hotel Zum Turm, Viale Kofel, 8 

Suggested length of stay in Castelrotto: 1 day 

Ortisei (St. Ulrich) 

Ortisei ( Urtijëi in Ladin ) is one of the most visited towns in the Dolomites. Its location in the Val Gardena valley makes Ortisei popular among skiers and snowboarders in the winter. 

For non-skiers and hikers, Ortisei has plenty of things to do to fill up a day. Visit the town center to see the unique architecture, indulge in homemade cake and coffee or relax in a spa. 

We didn’t spend the night in Ortisei, but the center has plenty of hotels to choose from. Several include: 

ADLER Spa Resort Dolomiti , Strada Rezia, 7, 39046 Ortisei BZ  Classic Hotel am Stetteneck , Strada Rezia, 14    Hotel Maria , Strada Rezia, 49  B&B Villa Angelino , Via Petlin, 12 

Suggested length of stay in Ortisei: 1 day (for non-skiers/hikers)/2+ for skiers and outdoor travelers 

Selva di Val Gardena (Wolkenstein) 

Selva di Val Gardena is another small charming alpine village in the Dolomites.  

Known for its mountain scenery, outdoor activities and traditional Tyrolean architecture, consider adding Selva to your Dolomites road trip itinerary. 

Selva typically attracts Dolomites walkers, hikers and skiers. Sassolungo and Sassopiatto are two prominent mountain peaks and the trails around Selva provide uninterrupted views of the Dolomites. 

Some of my favorite non-skiing/hiking activities include watching the scenery from the car or on foot and dining at Villa Frainela. A down-to-earth eatery offering a selection of homemade cakes and light meals, it’s a delicious way to pass the time. 

Villa Frainela, Streda Dantercëpies, 66 

Suggested length of stay in Selva di Val Gardena: 0.5 days (for non-skiers/hikers)/2+ for skiers and outdoor travelers 

Corvara in Badia (Kurfar) 

A short 36-minute drive from Selva is the ski-lovers town of Corvara in Badia. A skiers’ paradise, ski slopes weave throughout the town center adding a unique feature to Corvara. 

The town’s equally pretty for simply walking around and enjoying the mountain views. Its location in the Dolomites makes Corvara in Badia unmissable for any Dolomites road trip itinerary.  

Come to ski, walk, eat or have a spa day; the choices are endless. 

Suggested length of stay in Corvara in Badia: 0.5 days (for non-skiers)/2+ for skiers 

Dobbiaco (Toblach) 

Situated at the entrance to the picturesque Val di Landro area is the small town of Dobbiaco. The town attracts plenty of visitors for its cross-country skiing, boasting over 200km (124mi) of ski tracks.

Because of this, Dobbiaco is best known for its cross-country ski competitions.  

For those of us who don’t ski, Dobbiaco is still worth visiting. Almost a hidden gem in the Dolomites, its town center perfectly blends the traditional with the modern. Come Christmastime, a small Christmas market, complete with stalls and live music, brings the festive spirit to Dobbiaco. 

Don’t miss its lake — Dolomites road trip itinerary 

During our visit, Lake Dobbiaco (Lago di Dobbiaco/Toblacher See) was completely frozen over.

Personally, I enjoyed seeing it in its frosty state, surrounded by snow-covered trees and basking in a bluey dusky glow. 

We spent the night in Dobbiaco at  Hotel Stauder . Warm and welcoming, we enjoyed the Alpine-style room, mountain views and the short 5-minute walk to the town’s center. 

Hotel Stauder, Via Kurze Wand, 16 

Lake Braies (Pragser Wildsee) 

Lake Braies ( Lago di Braies/Pragser Wildsee ) is one of the most visited —and most beautiful — lakes in the Dolomites.  

A short 20-minute drive from Dobbiaco, it’s an unmissable place to add to your Dolomites road trip itinerary. 

Surrounded by the backdrop of the Dolomite valleys with pine forests, Lake Braies is mesmerizing come winter or summer. Walk or hike the trails surrounding Lake Braies, visit the lake’s chapel or enjoy the views by boat (seasonal). 

Suggested length of stay in Lake Braies: 0.5 days 

San Candido (Innichen) 

San Candido has so many features that make it one of the best towns to visit in the Dolomites.  

They include a charming town center filled with colorful Alpine-style architecture, a historic church and the Rocca dei Baranci mountains. 

San Candido tends to appeal to many winter sports enthusiasts given the many resorts that are close by. 

For everyone else, San Candido has plenty of other non-outdoorsy things to do.  

Visit San Candido’s churches, see the most important museum in the Dolomites, DoloMythos and eat at a traditional gasthof. Ristorante Wiesthaler serves delicious Tyrolese dishes in a warm and rustic historic setting. 

Ristorante Wiesthaler, Via Duca Tassilo, 3  DoloMythos, Via Peter Paul Rainer, 11 

Suggested length of stay in San Candido: 0.5 days (for non-skiers)/2+ for skiers 

Lake Carezza (Karersee) 

End your Dolomites road trip itinerary with a visit to another of the most beautiful places in South Tyrol .   Situated in the Val d’Ega valley near the village of Carezza is the lake of the same name. 

Lake Carezza ( Lago di Carezza/Karersee ) stands at approximately 4,987ft (1,520m) above sea level. In the backdrop are dense forests and clear views of the towering peaks of the Dolomites. 

Stroll around the lake and take in the mountain views or hike one of the several trails. An ideal destination for nature seekers, the emerald green hues of Lake Carezza are something you won’t easily forget. 

What do you think of this easy Dolomites road trip itinerary? Which of the places would you most like to visit? Let me know in the comments below. 

*information correct at the time of publishing

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that I’ve recommended. Thank you for your support.

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Which are the prettiest places to visit in the Italian Dolomites?

1. Ortisei 2. San Candido 3. Corvara in Badia 4. Selva di Val Gardena 5. Lago di Braies (Lake Braies) 6. Lago di Carezza (Lake Carezza) 7. Castelrotto

38 thoughts on “ Easy Dolomites road trip itinerary for 3-7 days ”

Ooh would love to do a road trip through the Dolomites, what a beautiful part of Italy! Would be dream to take a train there and hire a car – thanks so much for all the practical information, deffo going on the list

I’m happy to read that!

I have never heard of this mountain range, but it looks stunning! Thank you for this easy-to-follow highlight of how to spend a short trip there!

The Dolomites are really worth seeing and so are the towns. I’m glad you enjoyed it!

I’ve never considered visiting Dolomites before but I am now. I love the look of Lake Dobbiaco, it looks simply stunning.

It really is beautiful especially in winter 🙂

The scenery and the food sound amazing, I really hope we get to visit one day.

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A Perfect Dolomites Itinerary for Any Length of Stay

Quaint villages tucked away in picturesque valleys, winding mountain roads and hundreds of hiking trails, the Dolomites might come close to my perfect destination. Covering everything from hikes to photography spots, where to eat and drink and accommodation options, this is the ultimate Dolomites itinerary for your road trip.

I love the Dolomites and bloody love a great road trip, so you can bet your ass that I’ve taken the opportunity to combine the two to create the ultimate Dolomites road trip itinerary!

For me, the Dolomites is perfect because one minute you’re white-knuckling it around yet another hairpin bend, and the next minute your cheeks are aching from the ridiculous smile on your face as you drink in yet another phenomenal view.

Pull over, dust off the hiking boots, and within moments you’re heading off on trails where jagged mountain peaks soar skywards and crystal-clear lakes double the impact of the already impressive scenery.

I hope I’m managing to make it sound as mindblowing as it is. I’ve been to a lot of places, but the Dolomites are always there in the back of my mind as somewhere that needs another visit.

I’ve made several road trips through the Dolomites myself. My favourite Dolomites itinerary was the three weeks I spent there in autumn in my van. I know that not everyone is fortunate enough to have that amount of time to spend in the area, so this is a sort of “build your own” Dolomites itinerary.

Whether you’re a hiker, a road-tripper, a foodie, a wine-lover, a solo traveller or heading off on a family holiday, the Dolomites has something for you. This itinerary for the Dolomites has a little bit of everything, and you can cater it to your own tastes very easily.

This Dolomites itinerary gives you single or two-day itinerary options that you can string together to make an overall itinerary for a road trip in the Dolomites that’s perfect for you. At the end of the post, I’ve put together some itineraries of different lengths that you can refer to for inspiration.

So let’s get going with planning your trip to the Dolomites!

DOLOMITES ESSENTIALS

Currency : Euro €

Language : Italian

Money : Cards accepted almost everywhere but have cash on hand for tips and small purchases

Visit in : Summer, autumn or winter

Transport : Public transport is great during high season, but a car is better at other times

Best for : Hikers, foodies, wine lovers and history fans!

The features in this post were hand-selected by a picky diva (that’s me) and some of them are affiliate links. If you buy via these, I may earn a commission on some of these awesome recommendations at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your wonderful support – Cat.

How to use this guide to create your own Dolomites itinerary

First of all, work out what your “non-negotiables” are if you have any. I know that a lot of you will have that one thing you simply must see while you’re here, whereas others might just be happy to piece together something that takes them from A to B.

If you have those non-negtiables, make a list, find them in my single day itineraries and then join them together in a route that makes sense to you. You might find that I’ve already done that for you in the sample itineraries towards the end of the post.

Next, work out how you’re getting to the Dolomites since that will determine where you start your Dolomites itinerary.

The itineraries in this post are intended for visits in summer and early autumn . Outside of these times of year, you’ll have to make some modifications. I’ve noted where significant changes to the itinerary need to be made.

Getting to the Dolomites and where to start this Dolomites itinerary

The Dolomites are the mountains of Northeastern Italy, but there’s no specific airport or train station for the region. Instead, there are several cities that you might end up using as the start and end points for your visit to the Dolomites.

For most people, it makes sense to create a circular Dolomites itinerary so that you don’t have to worry about one-way fees for rental cars. It is, however, entirely possible to create an itinerary starting in one city and ending in another without missing out.

#1 TOP PICK

BEST ITALY CAR RENTAL COMPANY: DISCOVER CARS

For booking your Italy car rental online, I recommend and use Discover Cars . They search both world-renowned international companies and local operators, so you’ll get the best deal!

Starting your Dolomites itinerary in Bolzano

Bolzano is the main city of South Tyrol, the main region of the Dolomites. If you’re taking a train from elsewhere in Europe or Italy, this is a great place to collect a rental car for the region.

I recommend and use Discover Cars to book my rental in advance, and I also have an entire post to help you master renting a car in Bolzano .

You’ll be starting your Dolomites itinerary in the Western Dolomites if you begin in Bolzano.

Starting your Dolomites itinerary in Venice

Venice is a great option for flights if you’re planning to visit the Dolomites . If you rent a car in Venice , you’re only 2 hours or so from the start of your Dolomites adventure!

You’ll be starting your Dolomites itinerary in the Eastern Dolomites if you land in Venice.

Starting your Dolomites itinerary in Innsbruck

Although it might seem rather strange to a lot of non-Europeans, starting your Dolomites trip in the Austrian city of Innsbruck is actually really easy. You can rent a car in Innsbruck , drive over the border to Italy without even stopping, and be in the heart of the Dolomites in under 2 hours.

Innsbruck is actually the closest airport to the Dolomites, and you’ll be starting your trip in the Western Dolomites . Val di Funes is only an hour and a half drive from Innsbruck.

PRO TRAVEL TIP | If you fly in and out of Innsbruck, you can visit the stunning Olpererhütte on your way to or from the Dolomites.

Starting your Dolomites itinerary in Milan

Milan is another really popular entry point into Italy, and opting to rent a car in Milan and then driving to the Dolomites will also mean you start in the Western Dolomites .

It will, however, take you about 4 hours to get to the Dolomites if you start in Milan.

Best Things to Do in the Dolomites

The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Dolomites may only have got their status in 2009, but they’ve been wowing visitors since long before then. From vertiginous mountain passes to turquoise alpine lakes, lush green valleys and the largest Alpine meadow in Europe, there’s honestly something for everyone.

And I haven’t even gotten started on the divine food and drink of the region!

When I started creating my Dolomites itinerary, I did what I always do. I made a list of all the things I wanted to do and places I wanted to visit in the Dolomites and then worked out the most logical route between them all.

I have a full post on the best things to do in the Dolomites , but this is a brief outline of what I think the best things are in each area.

Eastern Dolomites

Arriving or departing venice.

The main town of the eastern area of the Dolomites is Cortina d’Ampezzo . It’s a lovely place to spend a couple of days, especially for foodies visiting the Dolomites ! There are several Michelin-starred restaurants here, and plenty of others well up to the same high standards.

These are the main things to see and do in the eastern part of the Dolomites:

• Tre Crime di Lavaredo – the most popular Dolomites hike with easy options.
• Cadini di Misurina – the Instagram mountain classic.
• Lago di Sorapis – the turquoise stunner, but a tricky hike to get there.
• Lago di Braies – that lake with the boats! Busy but beautiful.
• Lago di Dobbiaco – a beautiful lake with an easy walking loop.
• Lago di Federa and the Croda da Lago loop – stunning in autumn but a moderately difficult hike.
• Cinque Torri – easy access and interesting history with beautiful rifugi.
• Lagazuoi tunnels – significant WWI site with easy cable car access or difficult hike.
• Passo Giau – the snake road with stunning views.

Western Dolomites

Arriving or departing innsbruck, bolzano, verona & milan.

Most people will base themselves in Val Gardena for a visit to the western side of the Dolomites. Three villages form the focus of the valley, with Ortisei and Selva di Val Gardena being popular places to stay.

Here’s what you can easily access from Val Gardena:

• Seceda – cable car access or wonderful day hiking to the iconic ridgeline.
• Val di Funes – idyllic countryside and my favourite mountain restaurant!
• Alpe di Siusi – Europe’s highest alpine pasture stunning at sunrise.
• Sassolungo – a full day hiking around the base of magnificent mountains.
• Vajolet Towers – challenging hiking with incredible views.
• Lago di Carezza – another stunning alpine lake.
• Passo Sella – another iconic driving or cycling route through the mountains.
• South Tyrol Wine Road – technically outside the western Dolomites, but well worth a visit!

Central Dolomites

Arriving or departing innsbruck & bolzano.

Alta Badia is the main hub of the central Dolomites. There’s a big focus on wellness in this area, with luxury hotels and spas dotted around the region. All of the experiences in Alta Badia can easily be accessed from the eastern or western parts of the Dolomites too, as the region is small.

Here are some other things to consider near Alta Badia:

• Summitting Gran Cir – amazing at sunrise, but this is technically a via ferrata.
• Puetz-Odle Altapiano – gorgeous hike that’s long but mostly downhill
• Passo Pordoi & Sass Pordoi – a fun mountain pass and cable car for 360° Dolomites views
• Piz Boè – moderate hike for incredible views starting at Sass Pordoi
• Passo Gardena – stunning drive linking Alta Badia with Val Gardena
• Marmolada – cable car access to the highest peaks of the Dolomites

Day by day Dolomites Itinerary Ideas

Here are some suggested daily itineraries for each region. If you’ve only got a couple of days in the Dolomites, then you should stick to either the east or the west, basing yourself in either Cortina d’Ampezzo or Val Gardena.

With five days or more, split your time between the regions with a couple of nights in each and consider an overnight stay in Alta Badia to link them together.

Arrival Day Dolomites Itineraries

If you’re taking the train to Bolzano then your first day in the Dolomites can be a full day.

For everyone else, even if your flight arrives first thing in the morning, you’re really only going to have a half day in the Dolomites by the time you’ve collected your rental car and driven there. Here are a couple of half-day itineraries for your arrival day in the Dolomites.

Half-day in the Eastern Dolomites Itinerary

The drive from Venice to Cortina d’Ampezzo will take you a little over 2 hours . I recommend having lunch in Cortina, dropping your bags at your accommodation and then having a leisurely afternoon.

If you’d like to stretch your legs, I suggest driving the Falzarego Pass to the Lagazuoi cable car , taking it up to Rifugio Lagazuoi and hiking down through the incredible WWI Lagazuoi tunnels.

If the weather is clear and you’d rather take the opportunity for a slightly easier afternoon with incredible views, take Passo Giau to Rifugio Fedare . From here, hop on the cable car up to Rifugio Averau , where you can then wander down to explore the Cinque Torri area.

Return to your accommodation in the evening and enjoy your first dinner in the Dolomites. Take the opportunity to have a meal at Michelin-starred SanBrite or Tivoli to kick your holiday off the right way!

Half-day in the Western Dolomites Itinerary

To give you an idea of your likely arrival time into Val Gardena, here are the driving times from nearby transport hubs to Ortisei:

• Innsbruck airport – 1.5 hours
• Bolzano train station – 45 minutes
• Verona airport – 2.5 hours
• Milan airport – 4 hours

For a relatively easy half-day excursion, I suggest taking the cable car up to the Seceda ridgeline or Alpe di Siusi , where you can hike as much or as little as you like!

If you really want to embrace the wellness vibes, book yourself a night in one of the best spa hotels in the Dolomites and just enjoy a sauna and a massage before you get cracking with the active part of your trip.

TRAVEL TIP | If you’re driving to the Dolomites from Milan or Verona, make time to visit the beautiful Madonna della Corona. It’ll add a couple of hours to your drive, but it’s well worth it, especially in the evening.

Eastern Dolomites Itineraries from Cortina d’Ampezzo

Each of these Dolomites itinerary days is easiest when done from Cortina d’Ampezzo or another location in the east. Having said that, you can definitely still incorporate these days in a stay that’s based further west – just budget for additional driving time!

Day 1: Tre Cime and Cadini di Misurina

It will take around 40 minutes to drive from Cortina to the car park at Rifugio Auronzo, where you’ll start your visit to Tre Cime di Lavaredo. I have a complete guide you can use with all the details on how to get to Tre Cime di Lavaredo .

I recommend heading up the toll road to Rifugio Auronza car park shortly after the road opens, which will be either 7 am or 8 am depending on the month, to be sure of getting a parking spot. You’ll need to pay a €30 fee to drive up the toll road.

TRAVEL TIP | The toll road to Rifugio Auronzo is closed between late October and late May, with access only possible by snowshoeing or by experienced winter hikers.

There’s a huge variety of hikes to do at Tre Cime di Lavaredo , so you can really choose how easy or difficult you want to make your day here. The easy, shorter hiking trails will take you around 2 hours, but it’s possible to spend at least half a day exploring the 10km loop.

Either bring a picnic to enjoy on your hike or aim to visit one of the wonderful rifugi or Malga Langalm for lunch. Don’t miss the view from Forcella del Col de Mezzo, which is at the other end of the car park to Rifugio Auronzo.

In the afternoon, pay a visit to Cadini di Misurina , which I think wins the award for most breathtaking viewpoint in the Dolomites. It is a more moderate uphill hike to get there, but you can see the worst of it from Rifugio Auronzo and decide whether it looks doable for you.

The Cadini di Misurina hike is about 3.5 kilometres round trip and will take about an hour and a half, depending on how long you spend taking photos!

Depending on what time you get back to your hotel, either relax and have dinner or take the cable car up to Cima Tofana if skies are clear. Just make sure you check the hours so you don’t miss the last lift down!

For thrill-seekers | There are several beautiful via ferrata in the area.

For photographers | Add an overnight stay here to your Dolomites itinerary for the best chance at golden hour views at Cadini di Misurina.

With more time | Stay overnight at one of the Tre Cime rufigi – I’ve personally stayed at Rifugio Auronzo , which is a great spot to access Cadini di Misurina for sunrise. Next time I plan to stay at the Dreizinnenhütte and explore some via ferrata and day hikes.

Day 2: Lago di Braies, San Candido, Lago di Dobbiaco and Lago di Misurina

Get an early start for the 50-minute drive from Cortina to Lago di Braies . From July to mid-September, you’ll need to arrive before the road closes at 9:30 or buy a ticket in advance if you want to park at the lake. I recommend arriving before 9 am.

Spend some time enjoying the lake. There’s a lovely paved loop around the shore, or you could hire one of the photogenic row boats for half an hour on the water for a different perspective! Expect to spend most of the morning in the area.

Drive to San Candido, a lovely little village that’s sadly overlooked on almost every Dolomites itinerary! Have a wander through the village to stretch your legs before finding somewhere for lunch.

On your way back to Cortina, stop off at Lago di Dobbiaco, where you can have another nice walk around a beautiful alpine lake. Lago di Landro is another gorgeous spot, and you’ll find the official Tre Cime viewpoint nearby.

Lago di Misurina is also worth a stop a little further on. You could have dinner in one of the many restaurants here or just enjoy the view before heading back to your hotel.

Day 3: Lago di Braies and Rifugio Biella

Rather than just going to the lake and leaving, hikers should take the opportunity to enjoy the very first stage of Alta Via 1, the Rifugio Biella loop .

Leave your hotel early for the 50-minute drive to Lago di Braies, aiming to arrive between 8 and 8:30 am. You’ll head around the lake to the base of Croda del Becco/Seekofel before embarking on the steep ascent to the Rifugio. Have lunch at Rifugio Biella, and then head back down the way you came.

This is a full day of hiking that will take you about 7 hours.

Return to your hotel for a well-earned rest!

With more time | Overnight near Lago di Braies at Gasthof Huber , one of my favourite hotels in the Dolomites!

Day 4: Lago di Sorapis

This is a full day of hiking, and the trail is not for the faint of heart. You’ll need to get an early start in order to read the trailhead of path 215 at Passo Tre Croci. From Cortina d’Ampezzo, it will take about 15 minutes to reach the parking area.

The Lago di Sorapis hike can be done as an out-and-back hike or, for more of a challenge, turned into a loop. It’s just over 5 kilometres to the lake, and the loop is almost 14 kilometres over Forcella Marcuoira.

Take a picnic to have by the lake, or enjoy lunch at Rifugio Vandelli from mid-June to mid-September.

This hike will take anything from 4 to 5 hours, depending on your level of fitness and whether you do the loop or not.

In the afternoon, you’ll want to take it easy rather than heading off like a mad woman to tick off all the things on your Dolomites itinerary to Lago di Federa like I did! Take a gentle stroll along the Pian de re Spines loop , chill at your hotel or take the cable car up to Cima Tofana if skies are clear.

Day 5: Croda da Lago hiking

While this was, hands down, my favourite hike on my autumn Dolomites itinerary , Lago di Federa and the Croda da Lago circuit are beautiful at all times of the year. I literally won’t shut up about this hike to anyone who will listen!

It’s a 15-minute drive from Cortina d’Ampezzo to the trailhead at Ponte de Ru Curto, and I recommend an early start for the moderately strenuous 13.5km hike. The Rifugio Croda da Lago is a lovely place to stop for coffee and cake or lunch, depending on what time you reach it.

From the trailhead, it takes about 2 hours to reach the rifugio and 5-6 hours to complete the loop.

In the afternoon, drive up Passo Giau and enjoy the views of Mt Ra Gusela before taking the cable car up to Rifugio Averau for an afternoon snack with incredible panoramas.

Return to Cortina d’Ampezzo, or use this day to connect your stay with Alta Badia (1-hour driving) or Val Gardena (1.5 hours driving).

With more time | A lovely alternative is to stay overnight at Rifugio Croda da Lago and complete the loop the following day.

Day 6: Cinque Torri and Mount Lagazuoi

Start your day by driving from Cortina d’Ampezzo to the Passo Falzarego 615 parking area, which is about 20 minutes. If this is full, you might need to continue along until you find a spot higher up the pass.

Your destination is the Cable Car 5 Torri which, as you might expect, will take you up to Cinque Torri! The hiking up here is more of a walk on wide paved paths. Spend some time exploring the outdoor WWI museum before having lunch at one of the rifugi.

I recommend either Rifugio Scoiattoli or, if you still need to work up an appetite, hike up to Rifugio Averau (2.5km, 1h return) or Rifugio Nuvolau (4km, 1.5 h return). The views from the upper rifugi are utterly spectacular.

Either take the cable car or hike back down before driving to Passo Falzarego 7 car park (if you’ve parked at Rifugio Col Gallina, you can leave your car in the same spot). Then take Cable Car Lagazuoi up to Rifugio Lagazuoi where you can have lunch if you were speedy at Cinque Torri and didn’t eat there!

You can do a wonderful hike downhill through the Lagazuoi tunnels, although it’s not for the claustrophobic! You’ll be walking though the old WWI tunnels that were blasted out by soldiers for ease of access. The hike is around 4km and will take just over an hour.

Return to Cortina d’Ampezzo, or use this day to connect your stay with Alta Badia or Val Gardena.

For hikers | You can take the moderately easy path 440 from Rifugio Col Gallina for a 5km hike up to the Cinque Torri, a walk of around 2 hours with the most beautiful views.

Connecting East and West

Day 7: driving the passes between cortina d’ampezzo and val gardena via marmolada summit.

This can obviously be done in whichever direction works for you – either from Cortina d’Ampezzo to Val Gardena or vice versa. Obviously, you can’t control the weather, but this is best done on a clear day so you can enjoy the panoramic views at the Marmolada viewing platform.

Assuming that you’re coming from Cortina, you’ll probably have tackled the Passo Falzarego or Passo Giau already, possibly both.

Passo Falzarego is what you’ll have done on the Day 6 Dolomites itinerary (Cinque Torri and Mount Lagazuoi), and you’ll have driven at least part of Passo Giau on the Day 5 Dolomites itinerary (Croda da Lago).

Either pick your favourite or the one you’ve not already driven, and take that to Malga Ciapela – both routes will take about an hour from Cortina d’Ampezzo.

Once you reach Malga Ciapela, park up and get a cable car ticket to the summit. You’ll take 3 cable cars, and be sure to get off at the second station (Serauta) to visit the WWI museum and sights. If there’s significant cloud cover, I’d recommend just buying a ticket to Serauta.

A visit to Marmolada will take a couple of hours, so once you’re back at the bottom, hop in your car and drive the Passo Fedaia to Canazei. I suggest stopping at lovely Lago di Fedaia for lunch, depending on the time.

From Canazei, you’ll take the absolutely gorgeous Passo Sella to Val Gardena, where you can check into your hotel and have a relaxing afternoon. If you arrive early, you could take the cable car up to Seceda or Alpe di Siusi for a look around.

This route consists of around 2-3 hours of driving time.

With more time | Consider a guided tour of the Marmolada Glacier or skipping Passo Sella and taking Passo Pordoi, Passo Campolongo, and Passo Gardena instead, completing 3/4 of the Sella Ronda but adding an hour of driving!

Central Dolomites Itineraries from Alta Badia

While these Dolomites itinerary days are perfect for a stay in Alta Badia, they can all easily be done from either Cortina d’Ampezzo or Val Gardena with a little extra drive time.

Day 8: Driving the Sella Ronda

While this is technically a driving day, there are so many places where you can stop, stretch your legs and take photos that it won’t really feel that way!

You may know of the Sella Ronda as a famous cross-country ski route, but in the summer, you can drive or cycle the passes. If you’re a keen cyclist, feel free to turn this into a cycling day, but I’d much rather use horsepower than the power of my legs for this one!

You can tackle the route in either direction – you’ll get stunning views no matter what – but some enthusiasts recommend doing it both ways for the full experience!

These are the four famous passes in the Dolomites that you’ll be driving today:

• Passo Gardena – Corvara in Badia to Plan de Gralba; access to Gran Cir
• Passo Sella – Plan de Gralba to Canazei; access to Sassolungo
• Passo Pordoi – Canazei to Arabba; access to Sass Pordoi and Piz Boè
• Passo Campolongo – Arabba to Corvara in Badia

If you’re staying in Alta Badia, simply turn onto the SS244, which is the Passo Campologo.

If you’re coming from Cortina d’Ampezzo, it’s an hour to Arabba, the junction of Passo Pordoi and Passo Campolongo.

From Val Gardena, depending on which village you’re staying in, it’ll take between 10 and 20 minutes. to get to Plan de Gralba.

Driving the full loop will take you around 3 hours, so take your time, enjoy the views and take plenty of photos!

Day 9: Piz Boè and Marmolada

Start your day by driving to the parking area at Passo Pordoi, aiming to arrive when the cable car starts at 9 am. It’s a 30-minute drive from Corvara in Badia, but you can still do this day from Cortina d’Ampezzo (a little over an hour)and Val Gardena (45 minutes).

Take the cable car up to Sass Pordoi, the “Terrace of the Dolomites” at 2950 metres. If you’re not feeling very enthusiastic about an uphill hike at this stage, you can have a coffee, admire the views over Val di Fassa, and then head back to your car.

However, I highly recommend girding your loins for the roughly 5-kilometre hike to Piz Boè and back (because who would I be if I didn’t?!). It’ll take you around 2.5 to 3 hours.

The final ascent to Rifugio Boè is a bit of a scramble with cables and rungs to help you on your way. Persist, though, because making it to the rifugio at the summit will reward you with incredible views and the opportunity for a cold drink!

Now you’re allowed to go back to the car and drive to Malga Ciapela, which will take you around 45 minutes. Take the opportunity to stop at Lago di Fedaia for lunch if you’ve not yet eaten.

Park your car at Malga Ciapela, and then take the three cable cars up to the viewing terrace at Marmolada. Don’t miss the WWI museum at the second cable car station before heading to the top for mountain views that stretch as far as Austria!

Once you’ve finished at Marmolada, you can head back to your hotel for a well-earned shower and dinner. You’re a little over an hour from both Cortina d’Ampezzo and Val Gardena and 45 minutes from Alta Badia.

With less hiking | Ride the Frara cable car from Alta Badia to Jimmi Hütte (amazing food!) for stunning views out over the Sella Group and Piz Boè. This can also be reached by riding the Dantercepies cable car from Selva di Val Gardena. Skip the Piz Boè hike!

Day 10: Gran Cir, Santa Cristina di Val Gardena and Seceda

This is an action-packed day, so if you’re not up for that, this one isn’t for you!

You’re going to start the day by hiking to the summit of Gran Cir. This is technically classed as a sentiero attrezzato, which is an easy via ferrata. It can quite easily be done without any experience if you’re an experienced hiker used to walking on the type of scree that’s found throughout the Dolomites.

I have done this hike for sunrise, but it does require a very early start, depending on the time of year. From the parking areas near Rifugio Frara, it’s about 90 minutes to the summit, depending on your level of fitness and your confidence in the dark on unfamiliar terrain.

Obviously, you can do this hike later in the day and take the cable car to Jimmi Hütte or Dantercepies, which will save you some time and effort! The actual ascent to Gran Cir takes about an hour once you’re on the trail.

If you’ve done the sunrise hike (good for you!) then have breakfast either at Jimmi Hütte or your hotel if it’s included and you’re staying in Alta Badia.

Next, drive to S. Cristina Valgarden/St Christina in Gröden and find yourself somewhere to park, because you’re about to go tandem paragliding! Obviously, you’ll need to book this in advance, but it was hands down one of my favourite things that I did in the Dolomites .

TRAVEL TIP | I did the Panoramic Flight from Mont Sëura to Monte Pana with Gardenafly and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them to everyone. Book a few days in advance when the weather forecast is most accurate!

After your paragliding adventure, it’ll be time for lunch. At this point, you could either head up the Col Raiser cable car and onwards towards the Seceda ridgeline or go to Ortesei, where I highly recommend the Turonda pizzeria. If you opt to go to Ortisei, take the Furnes cable car up to Seceda.

Spend the afternoon wandering around the stunning Seceda area, doing as much or as little hiking as you feel like until it’s time to head back to your hotel. You might want to take the opportunity to book in for a massage this afternoon – you deserve it!

Day 11: Puez-Odle Altopiano

This is a full day hike, and I think it’s one of the best hikes in the Dolomites . In a change from most hiking in the Dolomites, you’ll be doing more downhill than up, because you’re going to make use of the cable cars.

From Corvara, take the cable car to Colfusco, where you have two options.

The first sees you transfer to the Plans Frara cable car (usually opens in mid July), taking you up to Jimmi Hütte. From here, you’ll walk to Rifugio Puez, which will take about 3 hours. You’ll be gaining 450 metres over the first 4 kilometres, but after that it’s pretty much all downhill.

The second will have you taking the Col Pradat cable car up to Rifugio Col Pradat, where it’s an initially steep climb up path 4A to the intersection with path 2, where you’ll continue to Rifugio Puez, having joined the route above. This is a slightly shorter hike and will take about 2 hours to reach Rifugio Puez.

From Rifugio Puez, take path 14 down to the Pra da Ri valley, where you’ll finish your hike after 5 or 6 hours in Selva di Val Gardena. Take the Dantercepies cable car back to Jimmi Hütte where you should enjoy a well-earned cold beverage and then down Plans Frara to Colfusco. Make sure you don’t miss the last cable car at 5:30 pm.

This hike can also be commenced in Selva di Val Gardena if you’re creating your itinerary in the Dolomites from Val Gardena, taking Dantercepies cable car at the beginning of the day.

Western Dolomites Itineraries from Val Gardena

If these Dolomites itinerary days appeal to you most, then it’s best to base yourself in Val Gardena. The three villages here are Ortisei, Santa Cristina and Selva di Val Gardena, and they’re all gorgeous. Ortisei has the easiest access to both Seceda and Alpe di Siusi, while Selva provides good access to Alta Badia.

Day 12: Seceda

You can easily spend a full day exploring the Seceda region. You can access Seceda directly via cable car from both Ortisei and Santa Cristina. It’s a little cheaper from Santa Cristina, but you’ll have to do a bit more uphill walking than if you take the cable car Furnes.

If you’re a really keen hiker, you can ignore the cable cars completely and hike all the way to the ridgeline.

PHOTOGRAPHY TIP | Sunrise can present some challenges at Seceda as you’re shooting into the sun. Sunset gives you last light on the peaks, which is wonderful. If you’re not keen to hike down in the dark, book a night at Rifugio Fermeda or Almhotel Col Raiser . This is also a spectacular spot to try some astrophotography!

I honestly recommend dedicating a full day to exploring here if you have the time. You can read more and plan your trip using my complete guide to visiting Seceda .

Day 13: Sassolungo

You’ll find the parking area for Sassolungo at Passo Sella near the Hotel Passo Sella Dolomiti or the Rifugio Carlo Valentini. It’s a half hour drive from Ortisei in Val Gardena, and will take less time from S. Cristina or Selva di Val Gardena.

Once at Passo Sella, you have two possible options, depending on how fresh your legs are feeling and how strenuous or adventurous you’d like your day to be.

There’s a roughly 17-kilometre loop around Sassolungo, which is moderately hard and will take about 6 hours to complete. It’s recommended that you do the hike in a clockwise direction.

For a more adventurous but less strenuous (I know, what an oxymoron!) option, take the standing cable car up to Rifugio Toni Demetz, and then hike (mostly) downhill for 8.5 kilometres. This route will take about 3.5 hours and is a great option if you get a slightly later start than planned as well.

In the afternoon, you could take the cable car up to Sass Pordoi, enjoy the views at the Seceda ridgeline or relax at your hotel.

Day 14: Val di Funes

Val di Funes is one of my favourite parts of the Dolomites, in part because it feels like a completely different part of the country. Where so much of this Dolomites itinerary takes you through mountain passes, Val di Funes is all rolling pastures and pastoral idyll.

Get an early start, heading straight to the Zannes/Zans car park in the morning – it’s about an hour of driving from Ortisei. Head off on the Adolf Munkel trail, aiming to get to what’s maybe my favourite mountain restaurant on this Dolomites itinerary – the Geisleralm – for lunch.

Whatever you do, don’t rush your meal! After a long, leisurely lunch, stroll back to the car before taking a brief detour to St Johan in Ranui church on your way to the village of S. Maddalena/St. Magdalena. Park near the main road, since it’s almost impossible to find parking in the village unless you’re staying there.

Take a walk along the Panoramaweg for beautiful evening views over the church of S. Maddalena. For all the details, read my post on Val di Funes (coming soon).

With more time | Book accommodation in the village of S. Maddalena/St. Magdalena. Booking at hotels here will give you a DolomitiMobil Discount Card for free public transport and a discount at the Zannes and Ranui car parking areas.

Day 15: Alpe di Siusi

The highest alpine pasture in Europe is a must-see on any Dolomites itinerary. If you’re staying in Val Gardena, the easiest way to get there is via the cable car, which delivers you from Ortisei to the northern end of Suisi.

The more common route is to drive to the village of Siusi and then take the cable car up to Compatsch. Driving to Alpe di Siusi if you’re not staying there adds a whole new level of complexity that you don’t need to wrestle with on your Dolomites itinerary unless you’re planning on being here for a couple of weeks.

Read this post for all the information you need about getting to Alpe di Siusi/Seiser Alm .

You can spend the whole day here hiking the region, or hire a bike and go hut-to-hut sampling the best of what the Dolomites have to offer.

With more time | Book a stay at any of the fabulous hotels in Alpe di Suisi for guaranteed front seats to the sunrise and ease of access to the pasture.

Day 16: Karersee/Lago di Carezza, Tramin and Castelrotto

This is a great day if you want to give your legs a bit of a rest or are wondering what the hell there is to do in the Dolomites for non-hikers! This is primarily a driving day, covering 170km and about 4 hours of driving in total.

Start your day off with a drive to Karersee/Lago di Carezza, via the beautiful Passo Sella, an hour and 20 minutes from Ortisei via Canazei. Although it’s true that the earlier you get here, the fewer people (and tour buses), it’s still beautiful mid-morning.

You can spend about 20 minutes here wandering around the lake, but if you do want more of a challenge, you can read this great guide to Lago di Carezza/Karersee from Mark and Mim of The Common Wanderer. Once you’ve finished here, get back in the car for the hour-long drive to Tramin via Aldino.

Tramin is a picture-perfect village amongst the vines and the home of Gewürztraminer, one of my very favourite wines. And the clue is all in the name! Tramin is a wonderful place for a stroll, some wine tasting and a divine lunch made with local specialities. Aim to spend a couple of hours here.

Once you’ve finished here, take the scenic drive to Bolzano via Caldaro and San Michele which will take about 40 minutes.

Although you could spend half a day in Bolzano, I think the main reason for a visit is to pop into the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology to see the famous 5000-year-old Ötzi the Iceman. Once that’s done, wander down Bolzano’s oldest street, Via dei Portici, and visit the Piazza delle Erbe Market. Aim to spend 1-2 hours in the town.

TRAVEL TIP | Don’t drive into the centre of Bolzano, or you’ll get a fine, as there’s a ZTL in place. Instead, park at one of the large carparks on the outskirts of the city and walk to the centre.

Once you’ve finished in Bolzano, take the scenic route via Siusi to Castelrotto/Kastelruth – around 40 minutes. Depending on what time it is, you could head up for a look around Alpe di Siusi either via the cable car or by parking nearer to Compatsch.

Castelrotto is another cute little town with a beautiful church. You don’t have to stop here, but it’s a lovely spot for sunset. If you’d rather, just stay up at Alpe di Suisi for the sunset! It will only take you 10 to 15 minutes to get back to Ortisei from here.

For photographers | I suggest either staying in Nova Levante to catch the sunrise at Lago di Carezza or reversing this day so that you can be there at sunset.

Day 17: South Tyrol wine road

Stretching from Nalles/Nals to Salorno/Salurn, the wine region of South Tyrol is clearly visible when you’re driving along the A22 – vines stretch across the east-facing hillsides as far as the eye can see. It’s such a dramatic juxtaposition to the jagged mountain peaks you’ll have been looking at for the last few days that it’s almost jarring.

Wine fans will definitely want to make time for this on their Dolomites itinerary. The best place to overnight for this is Bolzano. It can be done from Ortisei, but will add a considerable amount of driving to your day since Nals is an hour from Ortisei.

Cantina Terlano is the most-awarded winery in the region for 2023 and well worth a visit. Wine tastings are available, but you might need to bring your Google translate if your Italian isn’t up to scratch! For more information on the wine route you can take a look at the official website .

You can hire bikes to cycle portions of the route during the summer months. And in even better news, you can get a Winepass if you stay at any of the participating hotels in South Tyrol for free public transport and various discounts on tastings and bike rentals.

How many days do you need in the Dolomites?

Whilst it’s entirely possible to get a taste of the Dolomites in only a few days, I don’t recommend anything less than 3 days unless you just want to drive through the region and see some highlights.

For hikers and photographers, a longer visit will give you the flexibility to deal with unpredictable mountain weather (which is pretty much guaranteed), as well as return to some of your favourite spots. 5 days is the minimum to hit some of the best hikes in the Dolomites.

I’ve returned several times, sometimes just driving through, but it’s the trips where I have days to spare and be spontaneous that I’ve enjoyed the most. The best visit by far was when I spent 3 weeks in the mountains during my pandemic-related midlife readjustment, never to be replicated!

Do you need a car in the Dolomites?

If you’re visiting in the height of summer and you have some flexibility, you don’t need a car in the Dolomites.

If, however, you want to have the freedom to hike when you want, take your time on the trails, and not worry about bus timetables, then I highly recommend renting a car for your visit. You will need a car if you visit outside the summer season, as public transport in the region becomes scarce.

In my opinion, the best way to travel through the Dolomites is by using a rental car for more out-of-the-way hikes, golden hour photo shoots and getting between towns. Use public transport and shuttle buses for more popular tourist spots like Lago di Braies and Tre Cime.

Dolomites Itinerary Suggestions

1 day dolomites itinerary.

With only a single day in the Dolomites, you’re going to need to be laser-focused on what you want to do. I would only visit if you’re under 90 minutes from either Cortina d’Ampezzo, Val Gardena or Alta Badia.

Bear in mind that Tre Cime, Lago di Braies and Alpe di Siusi all have parking restrictions in summer, so you’ll need to arrive early. Parking at the trailhead for Croda da Lago can also be challenging unless you arrive early or late in the day.

If you can get to Tre Cime ( Day 1 ) before 9 am, then I think that’s the best bang for your buck as far as a “Dolomites experience” is concerned. The views here are simply breathtaking. If you’d prefer less hiking then visit Cinque Torri via cable car ( Day 6 )

If you can only get to the Western Dolomites with ease, I’d suggest visiting either Val di Funes ( Day 14 ) for a lovely hike and wonderful mountain hut dining. Alternatively, Alpe di Siusi ( Day 15 ) or Seceda by cable car ( Day 12 ).

2 Day Dolomites Itinerary

For your arrival day, use either of the half-day itineraries depending on whether you’re visiting the east or west of the Dolomites.

On your second day, choose from any of the single-day itineraries depending on your interests!

3 Day Dolomites Itinerary

Use one of the half-day itineraries for your arrival day, once again depending on which side of the Dolomites you’re arriving into.

On your second day, select one of the single-day itineraries from the region you’re staying in.

On your third day, either select another day from the side of the Dolomites you’re in, or use the Day 7 , Day 8 or Day 9 itineraries to see more of the region.

4 Day Dolomites Itinerary

With 4 days in the Dolomites, split your time between Cortina d’Ampezzo and Val Gardena, with 2 nights in each if you have a car. Use the Day 7 itinerary to navigate between the two centres in the middle of your trip.

With 4 days in Cortina d’Ampezzo:

• Day 1: follow the half-day in the Eastern Dolomites itinerary – Cinque Torri or Lagazuoi tunnels
• Day 2: follow Day 1 itinerary – Tre Cime and Cadini di Misurina
• Day 3: follow Day 2 or Day 3 itinerary – Lago di Braies with or without hiking
• Day 4: follow Day 4 or 5 – Lago di Sorapis or Croda da Lago

With 4 days in Val Gardena:

• Day 1: follow the half-day in the Western Dolomites itinerary – Seceda cable car visit
• Day 2: follow Day 14 itinerary – Val di Funes
• Day 3: follow Day 15 itinerary – Alpe di Siusi
• Day 4: follow Day 9, Day 10, or Day 11, depending on the amount of hiking and action you want on your visit

5 Day Dolomites Itinerary

With 5 days in the Dolomites, I recommend that you spend 2 nights in Cortina d’Ampezzo, 2 nights in Val Gardena, and either stay in Alta Badia or a rifugio on your additional night.

Here’s what I would do:

• Day 1: follow the half-day in the Eastern Dolomites itinerary – Cinque Torri or Lagazuoi tunnels and overnight in Cortina d’Ampezzo
• Day 2: follow Day 1 itinerary – Tre Cime and Cadini di Misurina and overnight in Cortina d’Ampezzo
• Day 3: follow part of Day 2 and Day 5 – visit Lago di Braies early and then head to the Croda da Lago hike in the afternoon, booking a night at the Rifugio Croda da Lago
• Day 4: finish Day 5 and Day 15 – complete the Croda da Lago trail, check in to your hotel in Val Gardena and take the cable car up to Alpe di Siusi in the afternoon
• Day 5: follow Day 14 itinerary – Val di Funes, overnight Val Gardena

6 Day Dolomites Itinerary

With 6 days, I think you can create a really great Dolomites itinerary, with 2 nights in Cortina, 3 nights in Val Gardena and 1 night in a rifugio.

Here’s what that would look like:

• Day 4: finish Day 5 and Day 12 – complete the Croda da Lago trail, check in to your hotel in Val Gardena and take the cable car up to Seceda in the afternoon
• Day 5: follow Day 15 itinerary – Alpe di Siusi, overnight Val Gardena
• Day 6: follow Day 14 itinerary – Val di Funes, overnight Val Gardena

7 Day Dolomites Itinerary

For 7 days in the Dolomites, I would add a night in Alta Badia so that you can summit Gran Cir for sunrise. Here’s my suggested itinerary:

• Day 4: finish Day 5 and drive to Alta Badia – complete the Croda da Lago trail, check in to your hotel in Alta Badia and take it easy
• Day 5: follow Day 10 – Gran Cir, paragliding and Seceda, then check into your hotel in Val Gardena
• Day 6: follow Day 15 itinerary – Alpe di Siusi, overnight Val Gardena
• Day 7: follow Day 14 itinerary – Val di Funes, overnight Val Gardena

10 Days or more Dolomites Itinerary

With more than a week, you can hit all my favourite days on your Dolomites itinerary. You could even arrange to do a multi-day hike, like this awesome-looking multi-day hike at Tre Cime that Kati and Sabrina of Moon & Honey Travel recommend.

My Dolomites Itinerary

Here’s what I did on my last trip to the Dolomites. You can read the details in the Dolomites in the Autumn (coming soon).

• Day 1: Drive from Slovenia, overnight Sexten
• Day 2: hiking Val Fiscalina, overnight Lago di Braies
• Day 3: Lago di Braies, overnight Lado di Dobbiaco
• Day 4: Lago di Sorpais hike in the morning, hike to Lago di Federer in the afternoon, overnight Rifugio Croda da Lago
• Day 5: Complete Croda da Lago, drive to Tre Cime and overnight Rifugio Auronzo
• Day 6: Cadini di Misurina, Tre Cime, sunset at Passo Giau and overnight Colle Santa Lucia
• Day 7: Laguzoi, Cinque Torri and overnight Alta Badia
• Day 8: Gran Cir, paragliding and overnight Ortisei
• Day 9: Seceda, overnight Ortisei
• Day 10: Alpe di Siusi, overnight Ortisei
• Day 11: Val di Funes, overnight Val di Funes
• Day 12: Start the drive to Tuscany

As you can see, even with 11 full days in the Dolomites, I couldn’t fit in all my favourite things on that trip! That’s why I keep going back.

Where to Stay in the Dolomites

So, here’s the deal. There are a shit ton of hotel options in the Dolomites, ranging from B&B situations to 5* spa and wellness hotels. All the choice can seem rather overwhelming, and if you want to do all the fun stuff, you’d better be travelling light (or in a van) because you’re going to be relocating a lot!

For solo travellers, I highly recommend staying at rifugio, where you might just make a new friend or 10! You could, in summer, create your entire itinerary around staying at the best rifugi in the Dolomites, but it requires considerable organisation to book.

For everyone, decide first on how many days you have in the area, then follow my recommendations above. You can check out the best hotels in the Dolomites, or decide if you’re only going to look at the best hotels in Cortina d’Ampezzo and Val Gardena.

I would recommend giving some thought to staying near Lago di Braies or at Val di Funes and Alpe di Siusi, where there are beautiful accommodation options.

Where and what to eat and drink in the Dolomites

Part of my love of visiting the Dolomites is because of the amazing foodie scene here.

South Tyrol boasts  21 Michelin-starred restaurants , and I really think that I need to put in more effort to eat at all of them! It’s actually the highest density of Michelin-starred chefs in Italy, which is wild.

Some of my favourite dishes here are  Knödel  (Canederli in Italian) which are dumplings made of bread and cheese. For the meat eaters, they often contain Speck, a local cured ham. You’ll frequently see a dish called Knödel Tris, usually a trio of spinach, cheese and speck dumplings.

Once I got over my childish hysteria at a dish called  Schlutzkrapfen , it became one of my favourite dishes. It’s essentially a cheese and spinach ravioli, although there are other flavours, and it’s wonderful after a day of hiking.  Spinatspatspazlen  is another great spinach pasta dish.

I’m also a huge fan of  Keiserschmarren , a pancake-style dessert chopped into large slices and covered in sweet berry sauce and cream.

Don’t miss trying the local wines – personally, I love a Gewürztraminer and it’s usually from literally down the road. I also love having a Hugo spritz after (or at the mid-point of) a hike – it’s a spritz made with elderflower cordial instead of Aperol, and it’s like summer in a glass for me!

5 Top Tips for the perfect Dolomites Itinerary

#1: don’t try to fit in too much.

This is kind of a do as I say, not as I do situation since I’m Queen of trying to do All. The. Things.

I promise, though, that you will have a much better time in the Dolomites if you don’t try to do too much. Try to stick to one part of the Dolomites rather than fitting 3 hikes into 1 day. Sure, you might be able to do it, but you’ll be too exhausted to take it all in.

Photographers, in particular, have a tough time trying to narrow down everything there is to do in the Dolomites, but I think you can hit the best photography spots in the Dolomites in 5 days .

#2: Allow extra time for mountain roads

It doesn’t matter what Google says, you’re not going to navigate these roads as fast as you think. The passes, in particular, are going to slow you down.

Quite apart from the fact that you’re probably in an unfamiliar car on unfamiliar roads, you’re going to want to pull over at every opportunity to marvel at the stunning views.

#3: Be flexible

This is sort of a continuation of the above, but it’s highly likely that you’ll run into a couple of days where the weather isn’t great. One of the great things about being based in one location for a few nights is that you can shuffle your itinerary to make the most of things.

Of course, if you’ve booked into a rifugio, you might not have a choice and you’ll just have to make the most of it. My number 1 piece of advice though is that if you don’t think that the conditions are safe for you, just don’t go. The Dolomites aren’t going anywhere.

#4: Have the right gear

I can’t stress enough how important it is to have the right hiking and via ferrata gear if you’re planning a trip to the Dolomites.

The hiking here can be challenging and, unless you’ve trained extensively with trail runners, now is not the time to skimp on the hiking boots . You can see my packing list for the Dolomites (coming soon) to give you an idea of my essentials for a visit.

In essence, hiking boots that are well broken-in, lots of layers including windproof and waterproof, and a personal location device . Even though it’s highly unlikely you’re going to be on trails where you don’t see another soul, it can happen, especially in autumn, and it’s better to have a PLB and not need it than the other way around.

#5: Respect the environment and your fellow humans

The Dolomites are a UNESCO World Heritage site, and there are rules in place here for a reason. Make sure to follow the principles of Leave No Trace: don’t leave litter, stay on marked trails, and respect wildlife.

Please practice Leave No Trace principles; plan ahead, stay on trail, pack out what you bring hiking, properly dispose of personal waste, leave areas as you found them, be considerate of other hikers, and don’t approach or feed wild animals.

I’d also remind you that not everything you see on social media is real – a lot of those “tents at Seceda” images were taken by people literally setting up their tent for the photo and taking it down again. Wild camping is forbidden here, so please don’t deliberately break the rules.

There are places where it’s clearly signposted that drones are forbidden – please respect that. Also, I understand that we all want “the shot”, but give other people the chance to have a go at taking it too. Be welcoming, ask other photographers if they’d like to take a shot where your tripod is, and just be a good human.

Visiting the Dolomites FAQ

When is the best time to visit the dolomites.

Although the Dolomites are beautiful at any time, I think that the absolute peak time to visit is September, when the summer crowds have died down, but everything is still open.

Try to avoid the peak season and crowds of July and August. Whilst the weather is beautiful at this time of year, it’s sometimes unpleasantly warm for hiking, and the roads, parking and accommodation options are all packed.

Another great time to visit is in late June and July, when spring brings wildflowers, mountain streams, and snowmelt refills the alpine lakes. Unfortunately, you may also find that snow remains on many of the higher areas, making hiking impossible in some areas.

I personally love autumn in the Dolomites. You still get crisp, sunny days and perfect hiking conditions, along with the beautiful autumn foliage of the larch trees. It is definitely more of a challenge to stay in the region at this time though since almost everything closes in mid-October until the ski season starts in December.

Where’s the best place to stay in the Dolomites?

The best place to stay is the one that lets you tick off most of your Dolomites bucket list items! If you prefer not to move frequently, then I recommend splitting your time between Cortina d’Ampezzo and Val Gardena.

How long should I stay in the Dolomites?

You should plan your Dolomites itinerary for a minimum of 5 days, in my opinion. Longer is always better, and you won’t run out of things to do even on a 3-week stay in the area!

Are the Dolomites worth it?

The Dolomites are 100% worth visiting if you’re into hiking, photography, food and wine. I genuinely think there’s something for everyone here, which is probably why I keep coming back!

How can I get around in the Dolomites?

The easiest way to get around in the Dolomites is by hiring a car . In the summer there are good public transport links and you can also take cable cars into the mountains to shorten a lot of the hikes. Outside the summer hiking and winter skiing seasons, you’ll struggle without a car.

Final thoughts on the Perfect Dolomites Itinerary

So, there you have it! A ‘one-size-fits-all’ itinerary for galivanting around the Dolomites, no matter how long you’re here. But we’ve really only scratched the surface – the Dolomites aren’t really a ‘been there, done that’ kind of place. There’s always a new peak to conquer, a new strudel to taste, and another impossibly clear alpine lake to make your friends jealous with on Instagram.

If you found this post helpful, I’d love it if you’d Pin it and share it with your friends.

Ready to go deeper? Then dive into the good stuff with more of my blog posts about the Dolomites – they’re chock-full of more juicy details and hidden gems. The Dolomites are calling, and I must go – how about you?

Planning A Trip To Europe?

Check out these essential guides, travel tips, and more to help you plan your trip:

ITALY | Plan a perfect first trip to Italy with my Top Tips for Travelers to Italy and Italy Travel Guide

PLANNING A TRIP TO THE DOLOMITES | Here’s what you need to read if you’re visiting the Dolomites for the first time , want to know the best things to do in the Dolomites or want to rent a car in Bolzano

DOLOMITES DAY HIKES | My favourite day hikes in the Dolomites and complete guides for hiking Lago di Sorapis , Croda da Lago , Seceda , Tre Cime di Lavaredo and Cadini di Misurina

DOLOMITES PLACES | My favourite places to visit in the Dolomites like Lago di Braies , Alpe di Siusi and Val di Funes

CENTRAL EUROPE | Follow my Budapest, Prague and Vienna Itinerary for a great visit

AUSTRIA | Plan a perfect trip the capital with my 3 day Vienna Itinerary

HUNGARY | Plan a wonderful 4 days in Budapest with my step-by-step itinerary

CZECH REPUBLIC | 4 days in Prague is enough to get a great taste of this stunning city

TRAVEL INSURANCE | Don’t go anywhere without it! I use and recommend Safety Wing .

THOUGHTFUL TRAVEL | No matter where you go, always be aware of the fact that travel impacts the place and people that live there. Being a thoughtful traveller is more critical than ever. Here are my top tips to make your trip a mindful one.

PHOTOGRAPHY | Love my photos and want to know how to take better shots on your own trips? Then my photography guide is for you. Here’s all the photography gear I use too. Want to buy one of my images? Head to the Print Store .

ESSENTIAL GEAR | You’ll find my travel essentials here, and a complete guide to all my hiking gear here .

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3 Comments on “A Perfect Dolomites Itinerary for Any Length of Stay”

This guide is amazing. Thanks for the hard work you obviously put into making it. Happy travels!

question many hiking trails say closed after mid September is this true? it looks like you do a lot of your hiking in October with the beautiful autumn colours> so if I go in mid October is everything still open and accessible?

Hi Danielle! I’ve hiked extensively in the Dolomites in October, but it’s always a bit of a gamble. If the snow comes early then you’ll struggle to get to some of the trail heads and the higher trails will be covered in snow and potentially quite dangerous. A lot of the rifugi will be closed, as will most (if not all) of the cable cars. I’ve tried to mention in specific hikes the dates that places are open, but you’d just need to be prepared to be flexible. It really is a stunning time of the year to visit if the weather’s in your favour though!

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Ultimate 7-10 Day Dolomites Road Trip Itinerary

The Italian Dolomites are among one of the most beautiful mountain regions in the world. It’s a part of the Alps that is extremely unique and attracts outdoor enthusiasts and all types of tourists from around the globe. If you’re planning your own trip to Northern Italy during spring, summer or fall, and are making a road trip to the Dolomites out of it, I’ve put together this itinerary that you can squeeze into 7 days or elongate to 10 days based on my own tried and true experience!

Disclaimer: This blog post contains affiliate links. I may receive a small commission for purchases/bookings made through these links at no extra cost to you.

Prior to making our way to the Dolomites, we did a TON of research and saved inspirational ideas over the year and a half that we were cooped up from the pandemic. We had originally planned to make our way to Italy in 2020 and had a basis for our Dolomites journey already drawn up, but of course our overseas trip had to be put on hold. Fast forward to fall of 2021 and we were excited to book our flight out finally! Our prior research and knowledge set us up for success for our ten autumn days in the Italian Alps and I hope they will make for a formidable visit for you too!

Table of Contents

How Do I Get to the Dolomites?

The Dolomites are found in the northeast region of Italy and are widely known as the Italian Alps. If you’re flying into Italy with the Dolomites being your first or only destination for the trip, the two main cities you should be looking at to land in are Venice and Milan . But mostly Venice because it is irrefutably closer than Milan is (2-3 hour drive vs. 4-5 hours). And that is where we flew into! We grabbed our rental car from the Venice Marco Polo airport – a Volkswagen Golf perfect for the two of us – and headed for the mountains.

If you’re hoping to minimize your costs and forget about renting a car altogether, you certainly can! In the Dolomites, they have a bus system that will allow you to reach all the main attractions without depending on a car. Of course, this means less flexibility and a dependency on the public transit system schedule. BUT it is entirely possible and a number of people choose this plan of action! You can book your transfer from the Venice airport to the Dolomites for only €15 !

Where Should I Stay in the Dolomites?

Now there are two main areas to consider staying in throughout your Dolomites trip: Cortina d’Ampezzo on the east side and Ortisei on the west . There are certainly magnificent towns and accommodations spread throughout the entire region, but finding a home base within or near the towns of Cortina and Ortisei is key to maximizing the sights you’ll get to see within your time frame. We managed to spend five nights in Cortina and five nights in Santa Cristina Valgardena, a town 15 minutes west of Ortisei.

Itinerary Breakdown

We spread our time in the Dolomites over 10 nights. We needed the extra time to rest up between excursions as Italy was on the last leg of our Europe trip, but had we dedicated 7 full days here, we could’ve made it happen. I’ve broken down the itinerary over 10 days (9 nights) for you but feel free to combine sights and activities if you’re short on time and are hoping to spend at most a week in the Dolomites.

• Day 1 – Travel to Cortina d’Ampezzo This is a day reserved for making your way to the Alps from the city you land in. If you’re lucky to arrive early, you can spend half a day wandering the streets of this quaint town and grab a meal plus food to make for the following days.
• Day 2 – Hike Tre Cime di Lavaredo & Cadini di Misurina Our two favourite hikes piled in one day to make the most of being in this neck of the woods and paying for the daily toll road fee. Be prepared for an early wakeup and food for the road.
• Day 3 – Visit Lago di Braies and other lakes near Cortina A relaxing day to recover from the hikes by taking in the different shads of blue and green water at some of the Dolomites’ most beautiful lakes.
• Day 4 – Hike to Lago di Sorapis A third and optional hike you can add to the itinerary to reach yet another gorgeous lake and mountain.
• Day 5 – Travel to Ortisei, visit Mount Lagazuoi & Passo Gardena Head west to relocate your home base to Val Gardena. Stop along the many scenic spots that highway SS243 has to offer, including the cable car up Mount Lagazuoi and Passo Gardena.
• Day 6 – Get Lost in Val di Funes & Ride Up Sassolungo Take a stroll through the rolling meadows of this former Austrian valley and capture the picturesque churches with a gorgeous view of the Odle-Geisler massif. Head over to the Sassolungo mountain and ride up in the coffin-like cable car to reach the top of this rocky cliff.
• Day 7 – Hike the Seceda Ridgeline Ride up the cable cars to the iconic ridgeline of Seceda to hike the trails to different huts with views of never-ending pastures and mountains all around.
• Day 8 – Alpe di Siusi & Lago di Carezza Watch the sun rise over the largest high-altitude alpine plateau in Europe and the many unobstructed and breathtaking mountain ranges. Visit your final but possibly new favourite lake in the Dolomites for sunset.
• Day 9 – Explore Ortisei (Bonus: Earth Pyramids in Renon) Take a relaxing day to stroll the streets of the quaint Ortisei for your final full day in the Italian Alps, and potentially head further west somewhere off the beaten path to witness an out-of-this-world natural phenomenon.
• Day 10 – Visit Lake Garda and Depart from the Dolomites Make the most of your drive back to your point of origin by taking a day to visit Italy’s largest lake. A few stops at charming and historical towns while driving lakeside as well as checking out a beautiful church built on the side of the cliff will give you the opportunity to finish your trip in Northern Italy on a high note.

Day 1 – Travel to Cortina d’Ampezzo

Depending on where you’re coming from, whether it’s a continuation of your Italy trip or you’re just now flying into the country, make your way to Cortina d’Ampezzo for the day. You’ll likely be starting your journey to the Dolomites later in the day so simply enjoy your drive through the mountain roads, settle into your abode and grab some dinner for the evening.

There are options to do your Dolomites trip without a car – the public bus system is beneficial for those on a tighter budget and is quite dependable. You can even book your transfer from the Venice Marco Polo airport (VCE) to Cortina for only €15 per person !

But for the most ease, convenience and flexibility, I highly recommend you rent your own car for the trip. In early October, we only paid €350 for the entire 10 days to rent from the Venice Marco Polo airport. The rest of this itinerary will assume that you will be taking your own vehicle, hence your road trip in the Dolomites!

When you arrive in Cortina, depending on where you’re staying, you’ll likely have tons of well-rated Italian eats in short walking distance from your accommodations. We enjoyed freshly baked and affordable thin-crust pizza from Ai Due Forni a couple of times throughout our stay and we grabbed delicious and hearty sandwiches for the next day’s hikes from Molo Cortina . Take this evening to rest up and prepare yourself for what’s to come!

There are many cozy hotels and vacation rentals you can stay at in Cortina d’Ampezzo. We stayed right in town along Lago delle Poste which was perfect. Just a short walking distance from the grocery stores CONAD CITY and La Cooperativa, as well as all the good eats in town. If you’re craving some mouthwatering Italian pizza, you can just walk out of your accommodations and into the piazza for some!

Day 2 – Hike Tre Cime di Lavaredo & Cadini di Misurina

Tre cime di lavaredo.

Start your first full day in the Dolomites on a high note with the iconic three chimney peaks: Tre Cime di Lavaredo (Drei Zinnen) . This circuit is by far the most popular hike of the region and demands that you come see it for yourself. The hike is deemed easy to moderate with 10 km in length, 340 m in elevation gain and about 3-5 hours to finish the circuit. This was one of the best hikes we’ve ever been on and I highly recommend saving up a morning to do it! You’ll be glad to come to the area for a sunrise treat over the mountains and valleys, and not have to scramble for parking or deal with high heat in the middle of the day.

If you want to come up to this point for the views without doing the hike, by all means go for it. The mountains are gorgeous and you can see them from the trailhead at the Rifugio Auronzo .

BUT you won’t really get to see the Tre Cime peaks in all their glory. In order to see the iconic frame of the three peaks, you’d have to continue on the trail. The counter-clockwise loop follows trail 101 , passing Rifugio Lavaredo and reaching the Forcella Lavaredo junction where you’ll get your first side-view peak at the peaks (pun may have been intended). This is also where you’ll cross the invisible line that brings you to the South Tyrol region of Northern Italy.

The Tre Cime hike offers beautiful sceneries throughout, our favourite being at the Dreizinnenhütte – or Rifugio A. Locatelli/S.Innerkofler .

Once you reach Forcella Lavaredo, keep right and follow the trail down that continues on 101, passing on the west side of Monte Paterno (Paternkofel) to reach this serene refuge. This will be your first time crossing into the South Tyrol region, an area that once belonged to the Austrian Empire prior to the end of WWI.

By Dreizinnenhütte, there’s an immense valley to gaze down upon, two calm and reflective lakes called the Laghi dei Piani and surrounding mountains that you wouldn’t have been able to see from the trailhead. We spent a good two hours here it was so peaceful! Tons of folks continued climbing upwards to reach these cave windows situated within mountains northwest of the hut. I could only imagine the view they got of the three peaks through these rock windows!

The rest of the loop trail is incredibly well defined and captures different points of view of the Tre Cime, follows the beautiful valley to other mini lakes and a third rifugio called Malga Langalm, and we were all for it! But there’s another iconic hike you have got to do before the afternoon comes to an end.

Cadini di Misurina

The Cadini di Misurina is a short out-and-back trail that leads you to a marvellous and incomparable vista point that you will never forget. It is one of the highlights of this entire Dolomites itinerary and I hope you get the chance to complete it before leaving the Tre Cime area.

From the same trailhead you were at at the beginning of Tre Cime di Lavaredo – Rifugio Auronzo – you’ll begin your hike heading southwards this time, away from the three peaks with your back facing them. The hike is less than 2 km one-way and about 120 m in elevation gain so you might feel the steepness in your lungs and legs. The trail may split here and there so always be on the lookout for red and white striped pole markers and keep following signs for trail 117 .

Not long after starting the hike, you’ll already be greeted by the marvellous spiked peaks that make up this phenomenal mountain group. You’ll also be able to spot some gems down below in the valleys as this hike in entirely exposed with no visual obstructions. The trail is mostly made up of loose rocks and dirt and because the final path to reach the iconic viewpoint consists of a narrow edge adjacent to a drop-off and ends with a narrow ridge, it’s highly recommended not to complete this hike when the soil is wet from recent rain and precipitation. The trail can get quite slippery so reserve this hike on a clear day where it hasn’t rained recently.

The hike really is about the final destination at the end of the ridge. You might arrive and notice others at the vista point already or be lucky to have it all to yourself. It’s intensely humbling to stand at the edge that point amidst the panorama of these formidably jagged peaks often referred to as the Towers of Mordor . Sunset would be a gorgeous time to be shooting at Cadini di Misurina, but anytime throughout the day this place will take your breath away.

Important note: To reach Tre Cime by car, there is a 30€ toll fee in order to drive a car up and park at the trailhead (it’s 20 € for motor-vehicles and 45 € for camper vans). The fee can be paid by cash or card, but fair warning, sometimes the connection is too poor for the card machine to function. The private toll road is open 7am-7pm in the summer months and 8am-6pm in the shoulder months (June and mid-October), however the arm was open to let traffic through when we reached the booth at 6:15am. You can always exit the park after the allocated closing time. There are alternatives to this expensive toll fee if you’re looking to save money. 1) you can park in the free car park at Lago d’Antorno and hike up to Rifugio Auronzo (about 90 minutes with 500 m of elevation gain – a strenuous hike). 2) you can take a shuttle bus from various locations, the closest being Lago di Misurina. The roundtrip cost is 16 per person (one-way is 10) and you may be limited in flexibility with the bus operation times, but it could be advantageous if you’re riding solo.

Day 3 – Lago di Braies, Lago di Dobbiaco, Lago di Landro & Lago di Misurina

Though the Dolomites have but a few easily accessible lakes, each one of them is picturesque in its own way. Whether it’s water colour, mountain views or on-water experience, each lake is distinguishable and worth a visit.

Lago di Braies

If you’ve heard of the Dolomites, you’ve probably already seen images of the Instagrammable Lago di Braies (Pragser Wildsee) plastered online. Is it deserving of its given title “Lago di Instagram”? I would say, yes! The Seekofel massif surround the lake and have incredible rocky and alpine features. The water reflects a deep emerald colour and shines a brighter turquoise in the sun. If you come to the lake early in the morning around sunrise and there’s no rain, you’ll catch a pristine reflection of the imposing mountains on the green water as well as the rustic Italian boats that line the shore.

Our favourite feature of this lake, and likely a huge tribute to why it’s so popular, is the fact that you can take out one of these classical row boats onto the water. The rowing manoeuvres might take some getting used to, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll be flowing in a sea of emerald. Opening hours for the boat rentals vary throughout the season, and even though the sign said “opens at 9am” the day we came, the attendants let us know it wouldn’t be open until 10am. Regardless of the long wait, it was well worth it for us to be there early and at the front of the line.

Check out their website for up-to-date pricing and hours! There are two prices: one for 30 minutes and one for an hour. You pay upfront for the hour and if you only row for half the time, you’ll get the remainder refunded. They only took cash at the time so have the amount of cash ready for your rental! After rowing and docking the boat back, you’ll be able to exit through the hut and select a couple of many amazing Lago di Braies postcards as souvenirs!

Lago di Dobbiaco

An underrated lake also situated in the South Tyrol region like the aforementioned lake, is Lago di Dobbiaco (Toblacher See) . This lake is very much worth the stop as it’s just off the side of the SS51 road coming back towards Cortina from Lago di Braies, about a 25-minute drive from the other lake. Its tranquility brings all the cute ducks swimming along the shoreline and the deep green-blue colour is formidable to look at. I loved that the colour separation between the shallow green water by the north edge and the deeper blue was very apparent. On a non-windy day, you could also see right to the bottom in the shallow section as if the surface were glass, and spot some tiny fish swimming through the pond weeds.

The best view in my opinion is from the north shoreline just a short walk from the parking lot. It also makes for the perfect framing for photography. In this frame, you’ll be able to capture the two different colours of the water as well as the picturesque alpine mountains that are so ideally placed to create a V-shaped valley in between.

Though Lago di Dobbiaco doesn’t often show up on Dolomites visitors’ radars, I was so glad we got to witness its glory and hope you will too. If you’re keen to spend more time here, you could take a light 45-minute stroll around the whole lake, rent a pedal boat for €8/€15 for 30 minutes/1 hour (pricing subject to change), or enjoy a lunch at Seerestaurant (Ristorante al Lago) .

Lago di Landro

Another 10 minutes south of Lago di Dobbiaco is a stunning glacial lake called Lago di Landro (Dürrensee) right next to the same road, SS51. The colour of the water is drastically different from what you’ll have seen so far at the other lakes, as it shines a pastel aquamarine. As the season progresses from summer to fall and later to early winter, the colour will get lighter and lighter as the lake recedes. The reason for this vibrant colour is thanks to something called glacial wash , which is essentially rock flour carried in the glacial melt that trickles down to the lake. And the bright pastel tone is due to the lake sitting on a light grey clay-like soil.

As the lake recedes in autumn, you can walk actually along the shoreline on the wet clay – it definitely gets sticky and slippery to wear good traction shoes if you do! The light pastel blue colour was something, but the captivating sharp multi-peak mountains of the Cristallo massif most definitely caught our attention. This was also our first spotting of fall colours which we found on the south side of the lake in the foreground of the majestic mountains!

Lago di Misurina

The final lake to visit on this day is just another 10 minutes south from Lago di Landro, yet again located right off the road, this time on SP49. Lago di Misurina is one of my favourite lakes and there’s no wonder why there are a number of chalet-style hotels situated around it. This lake has a gorgeous deep blue colour and the water surrounds this cute little island in the centre. There are imposing rocky mountains that completely envelop the lake, so it was neat to walk around the shore to get different vantage points where we captured various beautiful frames that pictured glistening water in the foreground, an Italian chalet hotel in the centre and striking peaks in the background.

The award-winning view, however, goes to the south shoreline because the Sorapis mountains are just so remarkable. You can best capture this view from the north parking lot along Via Guide Alpine, the same location you can rent a row boat or pedal boat if you’re hoping to take in more of the lake from the water. If you manage to visit Lago di Misurina on a day where it just rained, you’ll be lucky to watch the clouds rise behind the south building on Via Monte Piana and above the valley that separates the lake from the magnificent Punta Sorapis.

Note: You’ll notice that after leaving the South Tyrol region and being back in Veneto, the places you visit no longer have a German name as well an Italian. Lago di Misurina is one of those places. Some landmarks in South Tyrol also have a third spelling which is in Ladin, which is the parent language of South Tyrol. The language has been spoken for a thousand years and is still spoken today by 18,000 people in the Val Badia and Val Gardena valleys of the Dolomites.

Day 4 – Hike Lago di Sorapis

If you have the time and energy for a third hike on this trip, Lago di Sorapis is a stellar lake to trek to. A glacial lake much like Lago di Landro, this body of water does dry up in the winter months but is an absolute gem of a crystal blue lake in the summer and early fall. Hiking this trail in early October was still a valuable experience for us even though the lake had receded, but I’ll let the pictures speak for themselves and you can decide if it’s worth the trip for you depending on the season you’re visiting the Dolomites.

The trailhead for Lago di Sorapis can be found at Passo Tre Croci , a mountain pass just 15 minutes east of Cortina d’Ampezzo. There’s a dedicated free parking lot situated along road SR48 about 850 m before the trailhead if you’re coming from Cortina, but if you’re coming here early in the day, you can park right on the road’s shoulder beside the trailhead .

The trail is incredibly well defined with clear signs for trail 215 as well as red-white-red horizontal striped markers painted along the way. Trail 215 takes you straight to Rifugio al Sorapis A. Vandelli , the hut/teahouse located just minutes from the alpine lake, and leads you on an out-and-back hike. Roundtrip, the hike is about 10 km in length and 430 m in elevation gain , and is considered to be moderate in difficulty.

The hike can also be extended into a circuit by climbing a steady ascent along the mountain pass following trail 216 back home, but this route is more technical with some scrambling, and steep with about another 400m in elevation gain. If you’ve got the energy to complete the circuit, then by all means do it! But we only came for the lake view and chose, just like the majority of folks, to hike the same way back down.

The trail starts off very easy and flat and about 15 minutes in, you’ll come across a fork in the road. The most instinctive path heading upwards on the right is in fact not the right way to go, and it’s clearly blocked off with a line of rocks placed across. Take the left path heading down the slope and you’ll be on the right track. The trail continues through the woods and we experienced quite the fog passing through here, but as we emerged through to the cliff edges, we started seeing faraway mountain peaks make an appearance above the clouds and it was phenomenal!

Because of some narrow ledges towards the top of the trail, we recommend only hiking to Lago di Sorapis if the terrain isn’t wet. So avoid rainy days as well as days after which it rained. The ledges aren’t guarded on the cliffside but the rock walls are guided with metal cable handrails. Though I often have nervousness around unguarded heights, I barely felt that on this hike. The trail is definitely steeper in the second half versus the first. But it was easy to pace ourselves, especially with the trail being flat in some sections along the ledges, sometimes traversing wooden plank walkways. Towards the top, you’ll have some metal stairs to climb but nothing crazy and you’ll likely forget the physical effort because you’ll be so distracted by the many layers of mountain views.

Finally, you’ll make it to Rifugio Vandelli and a little further you’ll spot the vibrant turquoise lake and the towering 3200m Mount Sorapis. The Lago di Sorapis hike has a short window in the summer season, starting in July as the snow melts and ending in September when the water recedes. But even in early autumn, there were no regrets for making the beautiful trek up.

Day 5 – Travel to Ortisei, visit Mount Lagazuoi & Passo Gardena

Now that you’ve spent the last few days visiting some spectacular sites on the east side of the Dolomites, it’s time to make your way west towards Ortisei. Day 5 would be spent taking this scenic drive up and down the valleys and stopping at the eye-catching spots that call out to you along the way.

Having the freedom to simply drive and allow your eyes to have control where you stop, even if it’s a random spot, brings a certain kind of joy of appreciating the present. But to give you an idea of what to see en route to Val Gardena, here are a couple spots you can start with.

Mount Lagazuoi

For the history buffs, Lagazuoi Mountain is a top place to be if you want to immerse yourself in WWI history. There’s a cable car that can take you up the mountain where you’ll be in the thick of incredible scenery and be able to walk through the carved out tunnels that the soldiers mined over a century ago. They’re not incredibly advertised but we easily came across a wooden door near the top of the cable car that led us into a cave where there was actually a sniping rifle set up (you can access it of course as it’s barred off). It’s quite the open-air museum, and it’s pretty neat to find yourself in these tunnels where Austrian and Italian soldiers had once set up camp.

The cable car cost varies throughout the summer months and you can check out the new pricing here . It’s one of the only cable cars that remains open later into the fall – from early June to late-ish October. If you’re a keen hiker, you can hike from the gondola parking lot instead, meeting further tunnels and suspension bridges along the way. To our surprise, there was quite a bit of snow and ice that accumulated at the top which we weren’t prepared for. So a word of advice from our experience, always wear your hiking boots when making it up to mountain tops in the Dolomites if you’re not coming in the dead of summer.

The views up here are really something else and they reminded me of home in the Canadian Rockies. You could also spot the Cinque Torri (meaning “five towers”) from up here, another well known hiking area with WWI history to explore. You’d have passed by the Cinque Torri rock formation on your way to Lagazuoi from Cortina on the south side of SR48. It’s a great option for a sunrise hike if you have the time and energy this day, as it’s categorized as relatively easy, or you can simply ride the chairlift which is operational in the summer months from 9am to 5pm – check here for updated pricing.

Back to where we were at the top of Mount Lagazuoi. If you’ve worked up a hunger, you can keep enjoying the panoramic views and a good meal at Rifugio Lagazuoi before heading back down the cable car.

Passo Gardena

One of the most gorgeous mountain passes we’ve ever driven through goes to Passo Gardena (Grödner Joch / Ju de Frara) . It was slow and steady as we drove up the steep and winding road that lead us up from Val Badia to the beautiful pass before we made our way down to Val Gardena.

We couldn’t hesitate to get out of the car and adventure through the high-elevation mountain pass on foot. You can park at Rifugio Frara and from here there are a number of trails you can follow to get different vantage points of the 360-degree vista. It’s a fantastic place to stretch out your legs during the drive to Ortisei or to spend a whole day out hiking in the vast mountains of Northern Italy with few people in sight. If you’re hoping to prioritize Passo Gardena on your way westward, consider doing a hike from here like Cima Pisciadu , or test your fear of heights by doing the rock climbing via ferrata at Gran Cir or Piccolo Cir (a.k.a.”Big Cir” & “Little Cir”), provided you have the proper climbing equipment!

Exploring the area might call for some good food to refuel with. We personally loved dining at Hotel Chalet Gerard, just 7 minutes further down SS243 from Passo Gardena, and indulging in some tasty pasta before ending our day in Ortisei.

Day 6 – Get Lost in Val di Funes & Ride Up Sassolungo

Val di funes.

Towards the north side of the Dolomites is a stunning valley that’s known to show off the Puez – Odle (Geisler) massif like a crown jewel. Val di Funes (Villnöß) is one of the quaintest areas in the Italian Alps and it is home to two monumental churches in the most scenic backdrop.

Santa Maddalena

The medieval Santa Maddalena (or St. Magdalena) church sits atop a vast hill overlooking the town homonymous village of Santa Maddalena. Though it’s a small structure, its gothic architecture makes for such a picturesque view at the forefront of the storybook Villnöss valley with the majestic Odle group (Geislergruppe) lining the back. To visit the church, we found the best and closest place to park was here as you can’t drive up and park at the church itself. We then followed an easy-to-follow uphill walking trail to the church and continued further on for some great photo opportunities.

The trail from the church is actually a paved road for local traffic, so it makes it easy to stroll on for however long you want. We didn’t walk very far – maybe about 10-15 minutes from the church – but noticed the few other folks who were here this morning did continue and followed other trails through the woods uphill. It’s one of the places I felt the most at peace in our entire Dolomites trip. Hearing nothing but the sheep “baa” and the cowbells ring makes you truly appreciate being in this Austrian-Italian countryside.

Note: If you need to use the restroom in this quiet town while no shops or restaurants are yet open, there’s a very clean, public bathroom you can use right beside the church on your way back down that you can use for free. You can leave a small donation in the attached donation box if you’d like!

St. Johann in Ranui

The baroque St Johann in Ranui church lays on a flat pasture on the southeast side of the small mountain village. We managed to park here at the small lot situated within a bus station, just a 3-minute drive from where we parked for St. Magdalena. Visiting St. Johann in Ranui was as easy as crossing the road from the car park, where a constructed photography platform was built. I think the reason for why the locals built this viewing area is because it prevents overzealous tourists from hopping the fence onto private pasture land to snap their photos. Though we felt restricted because we couldn’t get any other vantage points to capture the beautiful structure along the road, it was honestly the best vista anyway.

My recommendation for Val di Funes is to come bright and early to avoid the crowds and to truly feel like you’re living your Sound of Music dream – or was that just my dream? If you wanted to discover more that St. Johann in Ranui has to offer and be able to get close up and personal with the landmark, you could also visit the church with an entrance fee of €4.

Sassolungo Mountains

About an hour’s drive south from Val di Funes, you’ll come to a vast mountain pass called Passo Sella (Sellajoch) . You might start recognizing some of the mountain ranges in the area and that’s because it’s only 15 minutes away from Passo Gardena which you would have passed through the day before.

The Sassolungo (Langkofel) mountain group is one of the most iconic ranges in the entire Dolomites. You’ll be spotting them a lot throughout the rest of your road trip when you’re at the top of the Seceda Ridgeline, hiking through the meadows of Alpe di Siusi and even from the town of Ortisei. The name Sassolungo means “long stone” which is a pretty spot on description of the rock formation that makes up this range. The massif is spread across the earth in a distinctive C-shape arch that opens up to the northwest, which you can see on Google Maps in the terrain view. This is why you’ll have a different view of the Sassolungo group from Passo Sella than you will when in Val Gardena.

You’ll be starting your journey up Sassolungo at the (paid) parking lot across road SS242 from the Hotel Passo Sella Dolomiti Mountain Resort. You may be able to park for free at this mountain resort or the Chalet Sella instead, depending on whether the lot is open for cable car visitors. At this point, you’ll already be greeted with marvellous views of the Sassolungo group on the west and Sella group on the east.

After parking, make your way the cable car station, Telecabine Gondelbahn Forcella del Sassolungo . This will be a highly memorable ride to the top of a mountain if you decide to opt in for the cable car. It’s the most unique gondola I’ve ever seen and consists of a two-person maximum coffin-like lift in which you can only stand the whole way up, and it does NOT wait for you. In order to get on, two attendants would assist you and you’d have to run and jump into the car as it’s moving one at a time. Seems like a lot of fun, or daunting for some!

The cable car would take you all the way up to Forcella del Sassolungo where a lodge called Rifugio Toni Demetz Hütte is insanely built at the base between two monstrous mountains – Mount Sassolungo (Langkofel), the highest peak that the group is named after, and Punta delle Cinque Dita (Fünffingerspitze). To the left of Punta delle Cinque Dita is the second tallest peak out of the five mountains that make up this group. This peak is named Punta Grohmann (Grohmannspitze or Mount Sasso Levante) after Paul Grohmann, an alpinist who in 1869 was the first to conquer the five summits.

Sadly, the Forcella del Sassolungo cableway is the first to close in the fall so it has a short-lived season. You can check the timetable and pricing online for the various cable cars and chair lifts that ride up Sassolungo. If you’ve missed the window and want to venture around the lower parts of the valley, you can roam around the “ City of Boulders” (Città dei Sassi / Steinerne Stadt) where the diverse flora and pines thrive.

A popular circuit hike here you can do in the summer follows trail 525 and goes up the steep and challenging 467m to Forcella del Sassolungo, down the demanding descent to Rifugio Vicenza (Langkofelhütte), makes its way north along trail 526 or 526A reaching Rifugio Emilio Comici, and then continues on trail 526 through the Città dei Sassi to close the loop at Passo Sella. There are many other trails of different levels of difficulty that start from Passo Sella that you can take depending on the challenge and mountain views you want to give yourself.

Day 7 – Hike the Seceda Ridgeline

One of the very major reasons for why the Dolomites was at the top of our bucket list is the famous Seceda Ridgeline . Nothing has ever compared to hiking along the jutting angular mountain peaks lined with green grass all the way to the edges, with vast valley views on one side and endless meadows and and mountains on the other. This was a must-do for us and I hope I can convince you of the same!

The easiest and fastest way to reach Seceda is by taking the Ortisei-Furnes-Seceda cable car. It’s not the cheapest way at a whopping €35 roundtrip when we went (visit here for up-to-date pricing and scheduling), but it’s worth it to save the time and energy for up there. The large parking garage is located right in Ortisei making it double efficient. The first ride (Ortisei-Furnes) consists of a four-person gondola that comes one after the other every few seconds. Once you reach the halfway point, the large bus-like cable car (Furnes-Seceda) comes every 15 minutes and groups of around 20 people at a time. From there, it only takes about 10 minutes to hike up to the first point of the ridgeline.

You could spend endless hours getting lost at the top of the Seceda spires, grabbing the best view at Forcella Pana (Panascharte) and keep continuing along the Odle and Puez peaks as long as you desire. That’s right, what you’d be hiking along are the jagged peaks that you saw from Val di Funes! You might even be able to see into the valley on your left towards the north.

I found it crazy that at such a high elevation in what I would think is a remote area, there were tons and tons of huts dispersed through the grassland towards the south. You’ll likely never go hungry or without shelter if you needed it thanks to all the abundant restaurants that were only walking distance away. This is why some choose to take the Col Raiser cable car from Santa Cristina Valgardena and hike the scenic route up instead, passing many huts along the way to enjoy a meal with a view.

For many photographers chasing Golden Hour, or simply wanting to avoid crowds, and who are up for the challenge can hike all the way up to the Monte Pic summit and Seceda Ridgeline from this small car park in Santa Cristina. If you are keen enough for this climb of at least 750 m for sunrise, you could also take the cableway back down with the Fermeda line, hike a short way east and hop on the Col Raiser down. The walk from the bottom of the latter cable car to your original starting point beats hiking back all the way down from Seceda, unless that’s your thing.

Day 8 – Visit Alpe di Siusi & Lago di Carezza

Alpe di siusi.

You can’t leave the Dolomites without traipsing through the largest high-elevation alpine plateau in Europe. At 52 km², Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Alm) spans so far that it meets multiple mountain ranges. The most famous of course is going to be our beloved Sassolungo (Langkofel) group , now showing off the Mount Sasso Piatto (Plattkofel) meaning “flat stone”. The altitude of Seiser Alm varies between 1680 m and 2350 m as it is spread across such a vast distance.

The best time to visit Alpe di Siusi photography-wise is in the evening for sunset, as the sun hits the Langkofel range to make it glow orange. During sunrise with harsh lighting, the mountains can be back-lit, but coming early in the morning allows you the time to adequately be present in the meadows without rushing to beat the light disappearing. We decided to come for sunrise for that reason and as the day progressed, we made the most of it: walked along trails with no one in sight, greeted some cows grazing, found a bench with a view and enjoyed a light meal just the two of us.

Important note: There are a number of ways to reach Alpe di Siusi, the best method in our opinion being slightly restrictive. Our favourite is by way of driving all the way to Compatsch. But here’s the thing: the road up the mountainous road for incoming traffic to Compatsch is closed from 9 am to 5pm daily. The good news is that you can drive back down at any time of the day. The not so good news is that parking costs €19 for the day (2021 pricing), but the lot is conveniently situated here . If you’re not wanting to drive up or you prefer the flexibility of visiting Alpe di Siusi further in the day, you can take one of two different cable cars. 1) The one that gets you closest to the best viewpoints and comes from the east is the St. Ulrich – Seiser Alm line that comes directly from Ortisei and lands you at the Mont Sëuc cable car station (pricing and timetable here ). 2) The one that gets you to Compatsch and comes from the west is the Seis – Seiser Alm line that comes from the town of Siusi (Seis) (pricing and timetable here ).

We arrived at Compatsch at the early hour of 5am when the stars were still twinkling. We brought our headlamps to hike in the dark, and thankfully, the trail is incredibly flat and well defined with a wide, paved road. The reason for this is because it is meant for cars to drive through, as well as horse carriages which you may see trotting through in the day. As there are a number of huts that people vacation at during the winter months for skiing, and mountain resorts like the ADLER Lodge ALPE, this would be the only way guests would be able to come through. They receive an exclusive permit to drive up the road from Seis to Compatsch at anytime solely on the day they check in.

It was incredible to watch as the frost evaporated and the fog lifted off the green meadows that morning when the sun started to rise on the left side of Sassolungo. It made the hour trek in the dark dodging cow poop here and there worthwhile. The best view in the rolling meadows is at Belvedere dell’Alpe di Siusi, which is where a bunch of us photographers conglomerated. It’s a super spacious area so you’ll never have to fight for a spot! We also wanted to check out this swing located at Malga Sanon which is a great place to grab a meal after hiking around before heading back to your point of origin.

On the way back to Compatsch, we noticed how much the plateau was chair lift galore. We also got to witness the Sciliar (Schlern) massif in all its glory against the blue sky.

Lago di Carezza

I didn’t think I’d come to this conclusion, but I might have to say that this lake is tough competition for Lago di Braies to be the most breathtaking lake in all of the Dolomites. About an hour south of Ortisei, we come to a surprisingly isolated body of water called Lago di Carezza (Karersee) and it might just be our favourite lake in the Dolomites. It’s relatively small and you aren’t able to get close to the water, but its intense, glistening emerald colour with the sharp peaks of the Latemar mountain range in the background make for one of our most adored sights.

An ideal time to visit is around sunset where you’ll see the orange colour gleaming against the mountain peaks. You can walk around the lake to get different vantage points, but since it’s such a short walk, we recommend bringing a light meal here and grabbing a seat at the wooden benches to enjoy the view as long as you can. It can get crowded in the evening as there’s little space along the perimeter of the water, so if you want to come earlier if you’re visiting during the peak summer months, by all means do it.

The parking lot is across the road and is subject to a fee which you pay at the machine to validate your ticket right before you leave. There are different facilities here at this tourism information centre, including restrooms, and after parking you’ll be lead through an underground pedestrian tunnel that leads you to the other side of the road where you’ll see the hidden lake of Carezza.

Day 9 – Explore Ortisei (Bonus: Earth Pyramids in Renon)

The town of Ortisei (Urtijëi / St. Ulrich) is one of the most beautiful towns in South Tyrol and you could spend a few hours aimlessly wandering the narrow streets, grabbing a strong espresso with an Italian/Austrian meal, and visiting a few beautiful churches while playing peekaboo with the Sassolungo range.

One of the cutest chapels I’ve ever seen is St. Anthony’s Chapel, or Cappella Sant’ Antonio . Its white facade with orange accents and tall, narrow roof remind of a storybook monument with its round church bell tower. Another stunning church both on the exterior and interior is the Parochial Church of St. Ulrich, or Chiesa Parrocchiale di San Ulrico . Both of these places of worship are situated in the town centre making them easy to pass by on your promenade.

Photos from Canva

The most marvellous church, however, is the one that hits on a hill top and requires a short hike to reach: the St. Jakobs Church, or Chiesa di San Giacomo (not to be confused with St. Jacob’s Church in town). Parking at the lot by the bus station allows you to walk along the road before taking a sharp left to head uphill to the stunning church with a long spire and magnificent views of the mountains. In total it’s about a 30-minute walk one way, which is still time well spent.

Photo from Canva

Earth Pyramids in Renon (Bonus)

An incredibly unique landscape that is certainly underrated is this pocket of thin, sharp spires that jut out of the earth with round, dark rocks balancing on their pointed ends. It’s a completely natural phenomenon that you would probably scratch your head at to figure out. Their coined “earth pyramids”, hence Earth Pyramids in Renon (Ritten) and they are formed due to continuous alternation between periods of of torrential rain and drought. They are also able to keep themselves from collapsing thanks to the fact that they are in a terrain that protects them from wind.

Important note: We wanted to come check out these fascinating structures up close so we made the treacherous drive up a winding residential road that was the most daunting because it was a one-laner that permitted two-way traffic. It was a bit of a gong show going up when you couldn’t see the cars until they were right in front of you and coming back down the narrow road in the dark. There were definitely a few close calls when we had to pass with an oncoming car at a bottle neck because there were no nearby pull-outs for either of us. So fair warning if you are coming here directly from Ortisei! Arriving here from the south end like from Lago di Carezza will allow to evade this road, but even so, returning to Ortisei will guide you this way for the fastest route. Therefore, I’ve kept this spot as a bonus in the case where you’d prefer not to potentially get yourself in a pickle.

After the stressful drive, we managed to park here in this lot, but there were a number of car parks along the sides of road SP73 to leave our car for our short promenade. To reach the few observation decks of the earth pyramids, you walk back north along SP73 until you reach the point where a walking trail starts on the right side at Cafe Erdpyramiden and keep following signs for trail 24 .

It’s an incredibly easy 10-minute walk from the cafe to reach the first viewing platform. The boardwalk has a couple of benches to sit at to enjoy the view with some information panels to learn about the formation of the funny-looking structures.

You can continue for another five minutes to reach a wooden bridge and go just a little further to catch a view of the surrounding countryside. We loved seeing the sight of the small town with the St. Nikolauskirche church, the orange glowing mountain groups in the distance including the Schlern massif as the sun met the horizon.

Day 10 – Visit Lake Garda and Depart from the Dolomites

You’ve hopefully had the trip of a lifetime in the Dolomites and have hit up all the landscapes you set out to see. Though longer in distance, the most efficient way to leave the Dolomites if you’re heading to Venice (or Milan) would through Bolzano & Trento taking SS12 & A22. It may result in higher toll fees but it’s worth driving on the freeway and making a couple more stops that you couldn’t visit on your way into the mountains.

You could road trip to Italy’s largest lake, Lake Garda for a beautiful lakeside drive, visiting gorgeous, historical waterfront towns. One of the most scenic would be Limone Sul Garda , which translates to “Lemons on Garda”. A stunning town built beneath large cliffs known for its many lemon groves and colourful houses, it makes for such a romantic spot to visit and sip on a spritz or limoncello after a long week of mountainous adventures.

Drive around the lake to take in the views and if you can add it to the list, make your way to the south town of Sirmione . Here you could make a visit to the renowned Scaligero Castle , a fortress built on the water in the 13th century. It’s truly a sight to see and will perhaps remind you of the floating city of Venice.

Santuario Madonna della Corona

If you have time to tack on one final landmark, this historical church constructed right up against the curvature of a mountain side is something you’ll never see replicated. The Sanctuary of Madonna della Corona is an enchanting monument found in a tranquil atmosphere. It’s an hour drive from Sirmione so you can make a judgement call if it’s worth it for you before heading to your final destination. If you opt in to go, the best place to park is here and it’s only a 10-minute walk to reach the iconic panoramic view of this formidable church.

That’s it folks! A packed 7-10 day Dolomites itinerary, perfect for road trips in the summer and early autumn season. If you’ve already been, let me know what your favourite spot in the Italian Alps is and what spots you’re now hoping to add to your list!

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Comments (10).

November 9, 2022 at 9:30 pm

Wow! You’ve inspired me to go! What an amazing guide.

laurenslighthouse

November 23, 2022 at 11:02 am

Thank you so much! It was one of our favourite trips ever.

May 23, 2023 at 12:15 pm

Hello. In October, my wife and I are planning to visit the Dolomites by following your list. First of all, thanks for such good descriptive information. Your article has been a real guide. Is it possible to get the gpx files of the routes you follow? Thanks

June 11, 2023 at 3:39 pm

Hi! I’m glad my itinerary has been a good help in our travel planning, and I hope you’re looking forward to your trip this fall! We went in October as well and the weather panned out well. I don’t have a gpx file of the routes but Google Maps was all we needed to figure out where to go for the locations we went to. If you check out the Wanderlog map I have at the beginning of the article, it’ll show every location and the default route (which is the best route) between locations. Each colour corresponds to a day for this itinerary. If you’re planning on hiking Lago di Sorapis, be sure to save the GPS coordinates of the parking lot I mentioned in the article. Some other parking lots, for example in Val di Funes, should be saved and all you have to do is punch them in Google Maps and off you go! Provided that you’ll be renting your own car, it is easy to get around by following the automatic routes provided by a maps app.

November 9, 2022 at 11:09 pm

Hiking at Tre Cime di Lavaredo looks like a truly amazing experience! This is such an informative post, thank you for sharing.

That hike was beyond our wildest dreams! Thank you for reading!

November 10, 2022 at 2:28 am

What a long interesting guide to the Dolomites. I loved Lago di Sorapis

November 23, 2022 at 11:05 am

Thank you Laura! Have you seen the Dolomites for yourself yet? Lago di Sorapis, in spite of it being fairly dried up early October, was among one of the coolest hike experiences we had here!

Kidianga Tshiunza

October 26, 2023 at 8:02 pm

This is by far the best itinerary to the Dolomites I have come across. Do you think I can plan my entire trip without the help of a “specialist,” so as to save some money? I like it when all my activities are reserved and set, and I don’t mind paying extra to assure everything is planned ahead instead of freelancing. Your thoughts?

October 29, 2023 at 7:33 am

Thank you so much for your kind words! We have personally never sought out a specialist or travel agent to book our trips and have always used our own research on blogs, YouTube and word of mouth to plan out our itineraries to nearly 30 countries in the past 2 years. If you prefer the peace of mind and having an expert to rely on for your travel plans, then please go right ahead! It definitely saves some time and hassle. Instead of booking everything way ahead of time, we often like to do things on the fly because you never know when weather, closures, etc. will work against you and you’ll need to pivot your plans last minute to make the most of the time and money you’re spending. If you have any questions about the Dolomites, I’d be happy to help out!

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The ULTIMATE Dolomites Itinerary for 1-5 days (with Maps!)

So, you want to visit the Dolomites but only have a few days. You need a  short Dolomites itinerary  for a day trip, weekend or visit up to 5 days which gives you ALL the best places in the most sensible order. You need to know  what’s worth your time , what you can forget and where you should stay. 

And here it is- the perfect Dolomites Itinerary for short road trips.

Our Dolomites travel blog posts cover most of our favourite places in more detail, but this is an overview of the routes and itinerary we took, along with driving distances and stops.

Grab a coffee and let’s get started.

*We work hard to make this the best motorhome travel blog and road trip website possible, full of helpful content for you. The website is supported by our readers, so if you buy through links on this site we may earn a commission- at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain our own .

If you find this post useful, you can also treat us to a coffee – we promise to enjoy it while creating more useful content like this- we might even indulge in a biscuit (or two!)

JUMP AHEAD TO...

Why visit the Dolomites?

The Dolomites are unlike anywhere else we have been. We’ve road-tripped around Europe for years- and  this place took our breath away. 

We’d always hurried past Northern Italy before, wanting to explore the Italian lakes, the Alps, or Slovenia- all of which are beautiful and totally worth a visit- but we REALLY wish we’d stopped at the Dolomites earlier.

It’s hard to explain the beauty of these mountains, or how they differ from the Alps or other European mountains we’ve seen. The combination of HUGE green meadows, jagged peaks, hiking trails and some of the most beautiful places we’ve ever seen- the whole package is captivating.

Dare we say it, but after 4 short days, we had completely fallen in love with this region- every corner is another ‘wow’ moment.  And after  Norway , our ‘wow’ meter is set pretty high. 

The Dolomites are now firmly in our top 3 favourite places to road trip in Europe- they really are THAT impressive.

Convinced it’s somewhere you want to visit? Even if you only have a short break? Good- let’s plan your perfect Dolomites itinerary.

What is there to do in the Dolomites?

There are SO MANY THINGS to do in the Dolomites.

It’s a place for outdoor explorations, especially hiking, photography, dog walks, star-gazing, road trips, picnics and just feeling awe-struck at the beauty of nature. Seriously, it’s one of those places where you just want to be outdoors ALL. THE. TIME. Even when the weather isn’t at its best.

In winter, many of the towns become ski resorts, which would be a wonderful way to enjoy the views.

We didn’t have much time to spend in the area, so we didn’t add any of the big or best hikes into our Dolomites itinerary. If you’d like to know more about hiking to a glacial lake or which mountains are easiest/ most fun to hike,   this book  will tell you everything you need to know.

Also, make sure you know   what to wear while hiking  and dress for whatever the weather may have in store- these are big mountains and it’s easy to get sucked in by their beauty and forget the dangers of hiking if unprepared.

Instead, we focused on some of the most beautiful lakes which were just a short walk or short hike away, so we could see as much as possible in the short time we had.

Of course, you can do an all day hike if you wish, but that might not be the best option if you’re short on time. 

Must-Know Tips for your Dolomites Itinerary

Where are the dolomites.

The Dolomites are in northeastern Italy and one of the most beautiful mountain ranges I’ve ever experienced. As well as mountains, there are plenty of quaint towns and fantastic driving roads- making it one of the best road trips in Italy.

The area is protected as a Unesco World Heritage site due to the  ‘series of highly distinctive mountain landscapes that are of exceptional natural beauty. Their dramatic vertical and pale coloured peaks in a variety of distinctive sculptural forms are extraordinary in a global context.’ (taken from the UNESCO website )

Why Is It Called ‘the Dolomites’?

The 250-million-year-old formation also known as the “Pale Mountains” took its name from the French geologist Dieudonné Dolomieu, who studied the region’s geology and dolomitic limestone formations in the 18th century.

When is the best time to visit the Dolomites?

I visited the Dolomites in early October and in my opinion that’s a great time to visit- much better than in high season (which is July and August). 

What is the best way to explore the Dolomites?

Ideally, you want to explore the Dolomites in your own car or vehicle. We visited as part of our motorhome tour in Italy . Foolishly, because we were heading to Croatia, we didn’t take our motorcycles with us, but it’s a fantastic place to go motorcycle touring in Italy. 

If you have a rental car, make sure you take time to add the Dolomites to your itinerary. If you’re only using public transportation, you can still explore the Dolomites, but services might not be as regular as you are used to, so you may wish to spend more than one day in the area.

The town of Ortisei or Cortina D’Ampezzo are the main towns to aim for, especially from Venice – it’s a beautiful drive at any time of year although the route has many hairpin turns and is not advised for those prone to motion sickness.

You can take the train to Bolzano and Val Gardena from Venice, Milan, or Verona.

Where is the closest airport to the Dolomites?

The closest airports to the Dolomites region are in Venice – Marco Polo and Treviso. You can reach Venice from most major hubs across Europe and the US. 

Are the Dolomites Italian or German?

The Dolomites are a bit of both. The language is bilingual – and even trilingual in some places – so expect to find towns and villages sharing Austrian and Italian names, and sometimes even Ladin, the ancient Roman language passed down by the first valley inhabitants.

Almost everyone speaks Italian, German, Italian and English, but don’t be surprised if you find most Dolomites speaking the native Ladin.

What is the Currency in the Dolomites?

The currency in the Dolomites is the Euro, just like in most parts of Italy. All major debit and credit cards are widely accepted, but be prepared for those $5 withdrawal fees if you need to use an ATM for cash and plan for these expenses in advance.

What are the opening hours in the Dolomites?

Opening hours for the lifts, cable cars, and hotels in the Dolomites vary, but you can expect a standard 8:00 am to 7:00 pm timetable for most services. Restaurants hours extend until 10:00 pm or later.

A word of caution: make sure to check your hotel’s check in time carefully as some do not offer reception service after 5 p.m. in selected areas.

How Good is the Internet in the Dolomites?

The four major mobile networks in Italy are  Vodafone, Windtre, TIM,  and  Iliad .

Some town provide free WiFi in the main squares and lift facilities, but if your smartphone supports it, you can have internet on the road with a regional Eurolink e-sim (prices start from $5).

Hiking in the Dolomites

The Dolomites and South Tyrol are a great place for those who love to hike in mountainous areas. The most popular hikes can get busy in summer, so you might wish to start in the early morning for longer day hikes in order to get the route to yourself as much as possible.

For even longer hikes, there are mountain huts (rifugio) all over the place which can be booked in advance and are a great option for multi-day hikes. One of the most popular of these is Rifugio Auronzo on Tre Cime, one of the favorite hikes for many visitors. 

Dolomites for non-hikers

What we really liked was that you  don’t HAVE to go for long hikes if you don’t want to ; many of the most popular locations and lots of the   best lakes in the Dolomites  are quite close to the road and easily accessible. So you can pick and choose exactly what you do or don’t want to see. 

Driving in the Dolomites

In the Dolomites, you can enjoy a few of the most scenic routes Europe has to offer. Driving across the mountains might seem like an intimidating option, especially if it’s your first time in Italy, but driving in the Dolomites is actually way easier than you think!

Is it Safe to Drive in the Dolomites?

The roads are well maintained with road signs in both German, Italian and sometimes English. All passages through the mountains are fairly easy to cross, except for instances of heavy snowfall when you will find them usually closed.

In the Dolomites, people drive on the right side of the road just like in most other places in Europe. The speed limit is 50 km/h in towns and 90 km/h on country roads. As long as you keep an eye out for fuel signs and toll roads, you are sure to have a safe journey in the Dolomites.

NOTE: Be sure to watch out for cattle! They tend to cross the roads frequently in many farmed areas, often without warning signs.

Driver’s License & Autostrade (Toll Roads)

Toll Roads, or  Autostrade  are the common Italian highways, motorways, and freeways marked by easy-to-spot green signs. You’ll need a full driving license or international driving permit to travel on those by car, campervan, or trailer.

If you are traveling on a budget, you can avoid those by taking alternative, longer routes–just be sure your map is up to date.

How Many Days Do You Need in the Dolomites?

As many as you can- and it still won’t be long enough! In this guide, you will discover various options for experiencing the beauty of the Dolomites, whether it’s for a duration of a one day visit, a weekend/ two days or 3-5 days. Aim to spend at least five days if you enjoy hiking and plan to go on Alpine hikes or try a cycling trip.

How to plan YOUR perfect Dolomites Itinerary

Below, I’ll share our 3-day Dolomites itinerary, but before I do, I want to share a couple of quick tips to help you plan your own trip.

• Decide on what is important to you . With only 3 or 4 days in the Dolomites, you will not be able to see it all. Heck, you couldn’t see it all in an entire week! There are just too many things to do. So pick a few things which you REALLY want to see, and enjoy those.
• HIRE/ TAKE a vehicle.  The Dolomites are MADE for road trips. They are perfect for picnics up mountains with incredible views, hiking, late-night photography and getting up early to see the sunrise. This itinerary is designed for road trips- taking public transport will take you much longer, but there are options for bus, train, and shuttle service. 
• If you can,  travel the Dolomites in a motorhome or campervan.  That way, you can stay in some INCREDIBLE locations for much less money than the price of a Dolomites hotel. It’s definitely a more cost-effective option and   campervanning in Italy  is awesome anyway.
• Go out of season . Either May/ June or September/ October. We went at the beginning of October, and it was the PERFECT time- clear days, cool nights with bright stars and incredible foliage. The Dolomites in Autumn are breathtaking.
• Use Google Maps. We plotted all the things we wanted to do and see on Google Maps, and then drove between them. It’s definitely the best way to plan a trip.   Learn how to use Google Maps to create an epic itinerary.

Our 3-4 day Dolomites road trip itinerary & highlights

We didn’t mean to go to the Dolomites at all; we detoured on the way to Slovenia without any plan at all.

Therefore, we didn’t really have a Dolomites itinerary planned and instead just crammed as much as we could into 3 days  (technically, we were there for 4 days but we spent one full day camped at the top of Tre Cime- we’ll get to that shortly!)

One of the most iconic shots in the Dolomites- but is it REALLY worth your time?

Italian Dolomites Itinerary Road map

Map of our dolomites road trip itinerary.

Here’s the route planner for our Dolomites itinerary. You can see the roads we took. Below, I’ll break it down into day-by-day and mileage/ stop points/ things to see in the Dolomites on the way.

Our starting point was Bolzano (A) and finished in Tre Cime (J). Of course, you can add and amend this itinerary or do it in reverse order if you wish.

NOTE- Not every point we stopped at is listed on the map above- Google Maps only allows you to plot up to 10 points at one time for a route map. But it shows all the roads we drove over the three days so you can use it as a Dolomites route planner for your own road trip. 

Dolomites Route Planner

One day in the Dolomites itinerary- what to see, what to avoid and how to plan your route!

Day One (or One Day in the Dolomites Itinerary!)

If you only have one day in the Dolomites, this is the route we would take- unless you go to Tre Cime!

Dolomites One Day Itinerary & Route Planner

Bolzano (A) to Val di Funes (F) • 170km • 5h 40 mins (including stops)

If you only have one day in the Dolomites, this is the itinerary I would pick. It showcases some of the best views, roads, lakes, mountains and more! 

It’s a loop which is easily driveable in daylight hours (both in summer or winter) and is a fantastic introduction to these beautiful mountains. As a first day introduction to the area, it was incredible. 

Day One Route & Highlights

• Driving the Great Dolomite Road (SS241) from Bolzano to Canazei- 2 hours • 76km (Point A- Point C)  READ: 9 essential tips to drive the Great Dolomites road
• Stop at Lake Carezza (Lago di Carezza) en-route (Point B)- this is where we had a late breakfast (TOP TIP: get there early- even in October there were a lot of tour buses arriving.)
• Sella Pass towards Ortisei (SS48, becoming SS242) – 3 hours • 76km  (Point D)- stopped for lunch near the top where you can see Alpe di Siusi- the largest alpine meadow in Europe
• Ortisei to Val di Funes, to see Santa Maddalena church (accurately called St Johanns Church)- the little chapel in the field and one of the most photographed churches in the world. Only a short drive at 40 mins and arrived late afternoon • 32 km (D to E)
• Stayed overnight near Santa Maddalena (see exactly where  here )

Day Two- Dolomites Travel blog

Map and route planner for Dolomites roadtrip planning for two days

Weekend/ Two Day Dolomites Road Trip Itinerary

If you’re visiting the Dolomites for a weekend or two days, I would do Day 1 and Day 2 to showcase some of the best spots in the region. It’s best to have an early start and get as much done as possible- it also means you can take advantage of spaces in the free parking lots.

Val di Funes (A) to Lago di Braies (Lake Braies) (D) on the map above • 130km • 2h 30 mins (NOT including stops)

• Val di Funes to Ortisel (Col Rainer or Seceda Cable Car) – 31 mins • 39km
• Gardena Pass (B/C) – 49 mins • 32km 
• Lago di Braies for evening – 1h10 mins • 59km

This hotel at Lago di Braies  is RIGHT ON THE SHORE of the lake and would be perfect to stay in if you don’t have a campervan.

If you stay nearby and it’s a clear night, getting up to photograph the stars over the lake is a great idea- it’s seriously beautiful.

Day Two – Highlights for where to visit in the Dolomites

• Val di Funes- St Johann’s Church/ Santa Maddalena-   READ : Val di Funes perfect itinerary .
• Col Raiser/ Seceda/ Alpe di Siusi Cable car–visit the top of  Seceda if you can, but motorhome parking at the cable car station is a NIGHTMARE, so Col Raiser is easier for vans to visit.
• An alternative option is to visit Alpe di Suisi (called Seiser Alm in German) on the opposite side- it’s the largest high-alpine pasture in Europe.
• Gardena Pass –  this was breathtaking–well worth going this way instead of the quicker autoroute to Lake Braies.
• Lago di Braies –  we arrived the night before and stayed overnight. If you’re not staying on site, get here REALLY early or you will be overrun by Instagram photo hunters… many in wedding dresses… #notevenkidding.

Day Three- Dolomites Travel blog

Day Three Dolomites Road Trip Itinerary

Lake Braies (A) to Tre Cime (D) • 73km • 2 hours

A shorter road trip route today, with plenty of pretty lakes and stunning views. Don’t miss  Tre Cime di Lavaredo – despite the expense it was our favourite part of the Dolomites.

If you can, stay up there for the night, either in a camper or a tent or at a hostel. You won’t regret it!  

Day Three Dolomites – Things to do and things to miss

• Next morning, get up EARLY to see Lago di Braies at sunrise for the best experience of this beautiful lake. The good news is you’ll see the sunrise and avoid the hundreds of Instagrammers!
• Lake Braies to Lake Misurina – 43 mins • 35km (you pass Lake Dobbiaco and Lake Landro on the way- both pretty and worth a stop)
• Lake Misurina to Cortina d’Ampezzo – 23 mins • 15km (missable- we only went for fuel and shopping)
• Cortina to Tre Cime – 42 mins • 23km
• Stay up Tre Cime for the evening so you can see sunset and sunrise. Both are stunning. We chose to spend two nights up here, but you don’t need to if you’re short on time. 

If you can’t stay up Tre Cime itself (an extra cost, but worth it),  this is one of the closest hotels to Tre Cime – the views are SPECTACULAR!!

Some common questions about the Dolomites:

Dolomites Itinerary for non-hikers- do I HAVE to walk or hike?

We didn’t do many BIG hikes in our 3-day Dolomites itinerary. On the 4th day, we spent it hiking and exploring Tre Cime. But you can easily spend three or four days in the Dolomites and not hike at all if you don’t want to.

When Should I visit the Dolomites?

In our opinion, Autumn is perfect. It’s actually one of our favourite   places to experience Autumn in Europe.  The trees are a beautiful backdrop to the views, the weather is still warm enough to go outside and yet the visitor numbers are much fewer than in summer, which makes the whole experience much better.

September/ October is beautiful. Don’t come any later than mid-October as many of the cable cars/ mountain passes in the Dolomites will be closed and not re-opened until April-ish. Snow and ice can cause difficulties reaching many of the best things to do in the Dolomites during winter, so while it can be pretty, you may not see everything you want to. (Here are some more   incredible places to enjoy in Europe in October )

If Autumn isn’t an option, try and visit May or June, which is a perfect time to enjoy the spring flowers on the alpine meadows. The weather will just be warming up, snow will be mostly melted, and you should get many opportunities to enjoy the spectacular views!

Where can I visit the Dolomites?

The Dolomites are in Northern Italy, about an hour north of Lake Garda. 

How do you get to the Dolomites from Venice/ from Milan?

If you’re doing a Dolomites Road Trip Itinerary (which we highly recommend), you can easily get to the Dolomites from Venice or Milan. 

Venice to Bolzano (the start of our Dolomites itinerary) will take you about 3 hours (267km)

Milan to Bolzano is about 3 and a half hours (278km)

How much does it cost to visit the Dolomites?

One of the advantages to visiting an area with a lot of hiking and photography spots is that it can be visited quite cheaply, especially out of season.

Our 4-day Dolomites itinerary didn’t cost us much at all:

• 4€ parking at Lake Carrezza, plus gifts and souvenir postcard (we collect them)= 25€
• Breakfast and bread for lunch from bakery = 6€
• Col Raiser Cable Car- 40€ for 2 adults and a dog (dog free)
• Cake and coffee at top of Col Raiser = 17€
• Overnight parking at Lake Braies = 8€ (15€ as of 2022)
• Gift shop at Lake Misurina = 35€  (bought amazing woolly slipper socks – worth it!)
• Tre Cime for 2 nights with a motorhome = 70€
• Fuel and LPG = 80€
• Not a thing- we were up Tre Cime! Although there is a restaurant and a shop there, we didn’t use it.

TOTAL costs for Dolomites road trip = 351€

This doesn’t include travel to or from the Dolomites, or food which we already had in our motorhome, but should give you an idea on what you could expect to spend on your own road trip.

Where to stay when you visit the Dolomites?

I’ve mentioned it a couple of times already, but we highly recommend visiting the Dolomites with a motorhome or campervan. That way, you can stay in campsites or use aires (called Sostas in Italy.)

You can either bring your own van, or hire one nearby.

If that’s not an option, hire a car and be prepared to move hotels each night, so you’re not wasting time returning to a hotel back where you started.

The hotels we recommend are:

• Val di Funes- hotel with a hot tub and views of the Dolomites?  Yes please!
• Lago di Braies- right on the shores of the lake!
• Near Tre Cime- you won’t believe these views!

Travel Essentials for your Dolomites Itinerary

Whether it’s a surprise hailstorm in the middle of summer or a spontaneous hike, it doesn’t hurt to be ready to face the unexpected in the Dolomites. Read on and make a list of the essentials that will allow you to relish in the Alpine experience, rain or shine!

What to Wear in the Dolomites

A rain jacket   – ideally lightweight and insulated to accompany you in every exploration.

Sun hat & Sunscreen  – depending on when you visit. Dolomite summers are mild with average maximum temperatures in July and August rarely spiking over 25°C –  but, let’s face it, an unexpected sunburn can really ruin a holiday so it’s best to be prepared.

Sturdy shoes or sandals  – able to withstand spontaneous hikes and the tricky cobblestone streets of the scenic towns along your trip.

What to Pack for the Dolomites

A power bank, travel adaptor, hiking shoes, and your trusty reusable water bottle go a long way in any vacation and will prove essential in your outdoors adventures in the Dolomites. Visiting in May or during the summer months? You might want to pack your swimsuit, but  only if you’re brave enough to try the cold waters in Lake Braies. 

If you want to see more photos of the beautiful Dolomites,  check out our Instagram.

There is so much to see in the area, it can be overwhelming trying to narrow it all down. Here are some of our favourite guides to help:

• Shorter walks in the Dolomites
• The best photo locations in the Dolomites
• Dolomites UNESCO tourist map

We hope you found those itinerary ideas for the Dolomites useful. You might find these posts helpful too:

Kat never planned to buy a motorhome. She also never planned to quit her job as an air traffic controller, go touring around Europe in said motorhome, start one of the UK’s largest motorhome travel websites… or get a cocker spaniel.

Find out how she went from stuck in the rat race to being a digital nomad and inspiring thousands of people to have their own epic adventures here.

If you’d like to connect with Kat, send her an email or follow her adventures on social media.

Last update on 2024-04-10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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12 comments.

Do you have any suggestions on motorhome or camper van rentals in that are?

Love this blog post! I’m planning to go September or October and am inspired by your pictures! Thank you

Love this post! We’re in Bolzano now and about to embark on your 3 day roadtrip suggestion!! VERY excited.

Awesome!!! Let me know how it goes 🙂

The Dolomites are great for your camper I agree, but if you want to see the really dramatic sceneries, a hike is required don’t you think so?

Hikes are awesome, but not everyone is capable or has enough time. But yes- the higher you go, the better the scenery. That’s why we loved Tre Cime so much 🙂

Hi! How were the roads for large (8.5m) motorhomes?

Most of them you’ll be absolutely fine- just go early to avoid buses or other vans coming the other way. And maybe sound a horn before blind bends where you might swing out into the road.

can we do this road trip in a scooter ( vespa )

Absolutely- it would be fun on a scooter. Just remember the roads can be steep, so it would need enough power to get up them and you’ll need to make sure you have fuel.

What an amazing and detailed blog, must say you have shared some really good information. The ideal Dolomites itinerary.

Thank you. Hope you make it there one day. The Dolomites are beautiful.

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Dolomites , Italy , Travel Guide · September 10, 2020

Dolomites Road Trip Itinerary: one week of dreamy lakes & mountains

A road trip in the Dolomites is something everyone should do at least once in a lifetime! After all who doesn’t dream of beautiful green meadows, bright turquoise and emerald lakes and dramatic jagged mountains that seem to come straight out of a fantasy movie?

This impressive mountain range in the northeast of Italy enchanted me so much with all its rough beauty! I was in complete awe every time I took another road, passing cinematic landscapes with magnificent mountain tops and lush meadows, decorated with cute mountain huts. I regretted instantly I had only planned to stay one week.

Planning a one week Dolomites road trip itinerary for the first time can be quite overwhelming! There are so many dreamy places to explore, hikes to do and things you need to take into account! But don’t worry, I have the perfect 7 day Dolomites road trip itinerary for you!

In this Dolomites road trip article I’ll share my personal experiences combined with all the things you need to know. That way you get a good impression of what it is like traveling there and you’ll find all the information you need to organize your trip.

Dolomites Road Trip Itinerary for one week of adventure

Duration of the trip:  7 days / 6 nights Start:  Venice San Marco airport to Misurina: 2,5 hours / 160 km End:  Lago di Carezza – Venice San Marco airport: 3 hours – 180 km My travel period:  Last week of August This road trip is for you if… you like an active trip admiring turquoise lakes and hiking in the mountains.

• Day 1 – arrival at Misurina
• Day 2 – Hiking to Cadini di Misurina & Tre Cime di Lavaredo

Day 3 – Hiking around Lago di Braies, Lado di Dobbiaco & Lago di Landro

• Day 4 – Hiking to Lago di Sorapiss

Day 5 – Cable car to Seceda & exploring Val di Funes

Day 6 – hiking at alpe di siusi, day 7 – a walk around lago di carezza, how to get to the dolomites.

• Where to stay in the Dolomites?

What to take on a Dolomites road trip?

• Additional trips after a Dolomites road trip

Day 1 – Misurina

I landed in Venice and after about 2,5 hours of driving I arrived at my first stop for the first 3 nights: Misurina. (Take into account that you will need to pay toll for using the highway.) Since it was already 3 pm I couldn’t do any big hikes, so I decided to walk around the lake. The trail is about 3 kilometers and takes about 30 to 40 minutes.

On the way you’ll encounter some nice views on the surrounding mountains like Monte Cristallo, Col di Varda, the impressive Cadini di Misurina and the Cimon del Froppa. You’ll even get to see Rifugio Auronzo at the Tre Cime di Lavaredo, which already gives you an idea of the grandeur of these immense mountains! After the walk I enjoyed the sun on one of the benches to take in the nice views and to rest from the flight and drive.

You can also take the chair lift to the Col di Varda. On top you will get an amazing view on the Misurina lake and the surrounding mountains.

Day 2 – Cadini di Misurina & Tre Cime di Lavaredo

Cadini di misurina.

Wake up early to avoid the crowds and traffic, because the Tre Cime di Lavaredo hike is the most popular hike in the Dolomites! If you don’t want to hike an additional 4 km with a height difference of about 450 m, it is best to drive all the way up to Rifugio Auronzo. According to my hotel the toll road during the Summer is open from 6 am until 8 pm (normally 8 am – 5 pm). It costs 30€ (cash only) to drive the road and park your car at the rifugio.

First I did the easy hike to the Cadini di Misurina. You need to follow trail 117 which starts in front of Rifugio Auronzo at the end of the parking lot. If you look away from Rifugio Auronzo, you will see a path leading towards the jagged mountain peaks of Misurina. You can’t miss the path and the arrow indicating it! Just make sure, while doing the hike, to follow the indications and always keep right.

Don’t take any sideways to the left. You will end up at some creepy dangerous paths leading to nowhere else than your death! I know this sounds very dramatic, but trust me, I took one wrong turn and that “path” ended up with me holding on to the mountain side for life with slippery rocks under my feet. Luckily I could still return.

After about 30-40 minutes you will encounter the famous view of the green rocky ridge and the rough jagged mountain peaks of the Misurina mountains. I was speechless. These are some very impressive mountains and I can tell you, if you are standing on that ridge, you will feel so tiny! Honestly I don’t get how some YouTubers/Instagrammers run on this ridge. (Maybe I’m just getting old :D) It is dangerous with steep precipices on both sides. One slip or misstep and you are dead! So be careful when walking that ridge! I spent about 3 hours doing the hike, taking photos, sitting there to enjoy the view and return.

Tre Cime di Lavaredo

After the Misurina hike I started the Tre Cime hike counterclockwise, because I had read this offers the best views. The hike itself isn’t super hard, but some parts are quite steep. I recommend wearing hiking boots. Sneakers will make you slip multiple times on the loose rocks.

I followed the trail to the Rifugio Lavaredo, then continued the least steep path to the “observation deck” called Paternsattel. From there you can choose different paths towards the Rifugio Locatelli alle Tre Cime di Lavaredo (Dreizinnenhütte) which you will see in the distance. I took the lower path, but I think the higher one will offer some more incredible views.

Once you arrive at the Rifugio Locatelli, make sure to check out the lakes on its right. They have two different colors and the view of the lakes surrounded by the stunning mountains is magnificent, especially when it is a sunny day with blue skies and cute white fluffy clouds. Before continuing also make sure to visit the cave. You will find it taking the path up near the Chiesetta Alpina. The view from up there is epic.

I had lunch on a rock in the meadow near the Rifugio Locatelli so I could enjoy the views and the sun. You can also eat at the rifugio, but it was too crowded, especially if you keep Covid-19 in mind. After lunch you continue the path towards Malga Langalm, which is a beautiful meadow with small lakes where you will often find grazing cows. On your way you will find more awesome photo opportunities. This part is more steep and exhausting, especially after a whole day of hiking. From Malga Langalm it is less than an hour to the parking lot.

Don’t forget to stop at Lago d’Antorno on your way back down. It is a small pretty lake which offers another awesome view on the Tre Cime.

To give you an idea; that day I hiked from 7.00 am until 5.30 pm and did 27310 steps, 202 floors and 19,5 kilometers! I was exhausted and I fell asleep at 8.30 pm that night! I will write a more detailed post about this hike later!

Lago di Braies

After a fantastic but tiring day of hiking, it is time for a more relaxed day exploring the lakes of the region. First lake of the day is Lago di Braies (about 40 minutes from Misurina). Make sure to arrive (very) early because the place is super popular and gets crowded fast. That way you can still park your car easily and enjoy the sights in silence (Literally, you don’t even hear birds!).

You can take a walk around the lake and even rent a boat (price for 30 min: 19€ – 60 min: 29€ / opening at 8.30 am in Summer, 10 am in Winter). Since I traveled solo I didn’t rent a boat, because I was worried I wouldn’t be able to row properly or maybe even drop my camera or tripod into the water! But I did enjoy the walk and I totally understand its popularity! Lago di Braies is absolutely stunning with its bright green water reflecting the mountains. I loved the fresh air and the smell of the pines.

Please remember the road to Braies closes from 10 am to 3 pm to avoid the place being overcrowded. If the parking lots are full, they even close it earlier. When I left the place, there was a traffic line to the parking lot of about 1,5 kilometers!

Lago di Dobbiaco

On the way back to Misurina I decided to stop at Lago di Dobbiaco (19 km from Lago di Braies). There is an easy path along the lake, which draws way less tourists than Lago di Braies, even though it offers amazing views as well. I encountered a lot of families with little children who loved to watch the many water birds on the lake. There were even swans! On the northside of the lake you can find a few restaurants in case you want to have lunch here.

Lago di Landro

Nine kilometers south of Lago di Dobbiaco you’ll encounter Lago di Landro. The lake’s surroundings are more rough. To reach its “beach” you have to walk through the bushes since there isn’t a well indicated path, only multiple sandy trails often overgrown by trees.

It is a nice place to just sit and enjoy the sun or have a picnic. People were even swimming here. The reflection in the water of the Cristallo mountain range is breathtakingly beautiful.

Day 4 – Hiking to Lago di Sorapiss, a must during your Dolomites Road Trip

Wake up early to start this challenging hike to the most dreamy turquoise lake you’ll ever see! Park your car for free at the Passo Tre Croci (I started the hike at 7 am and there were only 4 more cars). Here trail number 215 starts to reach Lago di Sorapiss. The hike to the lake is about 5,5 km one way with an elevation difference of 435 m.

The first part of the hike is rather easy with a wide path through the forest. But the second part is very different! It becomes very steep and some parts I had to use both hands and feet to climb over tree trunks and rocks. Multiple metal stairs will help you to climb the mountain (This was a bit scary).

Narrow paths with cables attached to the mountain to hold on to on one side and a significant drop on the other side, will lead you deeper into the mountains. If you suffer from vertigo, you will not like this and several people have returned at this point. I chose to just hold the cables and not look too much at the depth beside me. There was one part with wet slippery sloping rocks that did not have any cables. I was glad there were trees, so I could use the thick branches to hold on to. Because I did not trust that part at all!

It took me 1 hour and 40 minutes to reach Lago di Sorapiss. Which is actually pretty good for someone who spent the past months watching Netflix and did not train at all! The first glimpse of this awe-inspiring lake will leave you speechless. The view of the turquoise milky water, the green pines, the white rocks and the mountains surrounding it is jaw-droppingly beautiful.

First I took a lot of photos since there were barely any people and then I started to hike along the lake counterclockwise. I just couldn’t help myself from taking photos and admiring the stunning views along the way. I paused at the “beach” to have lunch and enjoy the sun. Swimming here is strictly forbidden. So please respect that.

Around 11 am more and more people started to appear. I spent about 4 hours at the lake and then I returned via the same trail. This was more difficult because the trail became very crowded (I don’t understand why people start this hike during the hottest/busiest part of the day) and I had to pass a lot of people, which was a little scary at the parts with the cables. Descending was also more difficult with all the slippery loose rocks and the scary views at times. It took me 2 hours to return. After the walk I drove to my next destination; Compatsch in Alpe di Siusi (2,5 hours drive).

Alpe di Siusi is not accessible by car from 9 am to 5 pm, unless you stay at one of the hotels there (only the day of check in you are allowed to drive between those hours). So keep that in mind if you are planning to go there. If you aren’t staying here, you can park your car at the parking lot in Compatsch (day ticket costs 17€).

Seceda 2500 m

About 40 minutes driving from Compatsch lies Ortisei, a cute mountain village I regret not exploring more due to lack of time. At 8.30 am the first cable car leaves at Ortisei to the top of Seceda. I advise to check the weather in advance to make sure you’ll be able to see the mountains at the top and you’ll wear appropriate clothing. Seceda is 2500 m high so it can be very windy and cold up there. The cost to take the two cable cars (Ortisei-Furnes & Furnes-Seceda) is 34€ round trip per person, so you want to be sure you’ll be able to see something! The cable car ride takes less than 10 minutes.

Once you arrive you will be blown away! Not only by the amount of wind up there (when I was there it was damn cold and super windy!), but also by the insane view of the most dramatic mountain of the Dolomites; Seceda! It has crazy jagged peaks and huge drop-offs which makes it all the more photogenic and mysterious. Especially when it gets covered in misty clouds rolling over it.

When I was there it was super cloudy and cold, but I was still able to get some shots! You can go hiking and you’ll also find mountain huts to warm up with a hot drink or meal. I didn’t do the hikes due to the weather, but if I ever return and the weather is nice, I definitely will!

Val di Funes

After spending hours at the top of Seceda I took the cable car back down and drove to Santa Maddalena in Val di Funes (45 min drive). First I visited the cute Chiesetta di San Giovanni in Ranui (entrance 4€ in small cash). This photogenic little church lies in a beautiful meadow surrounded by magnificent mountains. Unfortunately I couldn’t see much of the mountains due to the cloudy weather. But the views were still very dreamy.

Then I explored Santa Maddalena for a while. You can hike around the town to get some nice views on the village and its church, but the weather started turning bad when I was there so I had to return to the hotel in Alpe di Siusi.

Normally on the sixth day of this Dolomites Road Trip I would be hiking the whole day at Alpe di Siusi to be able to admire the views of the breathtakingly gorgeous mountain tops and the green meadows with their cute mountain cabins. But since a heavy (thunder)storm arrived that night and many more were expected during the rest of the day, I wasn’t able to do that. So I left the mountains a day earlier than planned.

I do advise to plan a day of hiking in this area! Next time I really hope I’ll get better weather so I can do those scenic hikes! A reason for me to return to the Dolomites one day!

View this post on Instagram calm mornings in the dolomites with a beautiful sunrise ✨✨✨ A post shared by Johann Makitrin (@johann.makitrin) on Sep 8, 2020 at 6:58am PDT

On my way back to Venice I made a stop at Lago di Carezza (1h 10 min drive). This is a small alpine lake known for its wonderful bright emerald & turquoise colors and the view of the summits of the Latemar and Catinaccio mountains. I know I cover a lot of lakes, but I assure you that they are all worth visiting. I just couldn’t get enough of these gorgeous treasures of nature!

The lake is surrounded by fences, but it is still possible to take photos and have a nice walk around the lake. Don’t climb over those fences though, because you’ll get fined! Try to get there before 10 am, because it is a popular place!

The nearest international airport is Venice Marco Polo Airport. I rented a car and drove to my first stop, Misurina (about 2,5 hours of driving) to start this Dolomites road trip. You could also land in Innsbrück (Austria) which is a little further. Or, if you live in Europe, drive to Italy using your own car.

Where to stay during your Dolomites road trip?

The first three nights of my Dolomites Road Trip I stayed at Misurina , by the lake. This was the perfect spot, because the furthest place I visited in this region was only a 40 minute drive away (Lago di Braies). At Misurina you have plenty of restaurant options and it is also a nice spot to relax at the end of your day.

• Grand Hotel Misurina (I stayed here and it was great!)
• Hotel Lavaredo
• Quinz – Locanda al Lago
• Hotel Sorapiss
• Hotel Miralago

You could also stay at Cortina d’Ampezzo if you like a more vibrant town. It is only 14 km from Misurina and 1 hour from Lago di Braies.

• Hotel Montana (friends stayed here)
• Hotel Olimpia
• Rosa Petra SPA Resort
• Hotel Capannina

The other three nights I stayed at Compatsch in Alpe di Siusi. Next time I’ll probably choose to stay at Ortisei for 2 nights and one night in Alpe di Siusi. Ortisei is a cute town and the perfect base to explore Seceda and Val di Funes. A night at Alpe di Siusi is perfect to be able to start your hike early and catch the sunrise!

• Piccolo Hotel Sciliar (I stayed here. It is a very basic hotel, but clean!)
• Alpina Dolomites
• Camera Alpe di Siusi
• Hotel Bellavista
• Seiser Alm Urthaler
• Casa Al Sole (friends stayed here)
• Hotel Maria
• Chalet Sophia
• Adler Spa Resort Dolomiti
• Apartment Manuel
• Garni Halali
• Alpenheim Charming & Spa Hotel

On this Dolomites road trip you’ll have to take clothes for all seasons ! During the Summer you will get hot days of 30°C, but in the morning it can be very chilly (5°C wasn’t an exception). In the valleys it can be warm, on top of the mountain it can be cold (or vice versa). So always wear layers. I took various outfits with me in the car, in case the weather would change while driving around.

Hiking boots are a must. Sneakers are often not appropriate to do these mountain hikes due to the loose or wet rocks. You need to make sure you have a good grip so you won’t slip. Hiking boots also protect your feet more.

A backpack filled with food and water is also a must when hiking in the mountains. You need to keep your energy levels up and stay hydrated.

Wear sunscreen ! At high altitude your skin is more exposed to greater UVA rays and you’ll burn fast if you don’t.

Obviously photography gear is something you don’t want to forget since the views in the Dolomites are absolutely stunning!

If you have walking sticks , I recommend taking them as well.

Cash money is necessary in the Dolomites. The toll road to Rifugio Auronzo can only be paid with cash and certain parking lots also require cash.

Additional trips after doing a Dolomites Road Trip

Since I had to flee the mountains a day earlier due to the stormy weather, I booked a night at Treviso, a cute little town also known as Little Venice, that is only 30 minutes from Venice Airport. In Treviso you’ll find the typical Italian squares with palazzos, but also picturesque canals. I really enjoyed exploring this charming town. I only spent an afternoon here, but that was sufficient to get a first good look! I’ll add a mini guide on the blog about Treviso later!

I stayed at Hotel Continental near the central station and the city center.

Since I had an extra day I also did a day trip to Venice. It was easy to take the train from Treviso. It only took 30 minutes to get there and I could spend the whole day wandering through Venice using my own one day walking itinerary !

The last night I prefered staying at Mestre since it was only 15 minutes from Venice Airport. If you want to skip Treviso you can also take the train from Mestre which only takes 5 minutes until you arrive in Venice!

I stayed at the Best Western Plus Hotel Bologna , which was one of the most modern high tech hotels I ever stayed at! The train station was right across the street!

Pin this Dolomites road trip itinerary for later

If you want to help me a little please share this “Dolomites Road Trip” article on Facebook, Twitter or any kind of social media. A small thing for you to do that can make a big difference for me! Massive thanks! If you like the pictures in this article, I suggest to follow  my Instagram account  where you can find a lot more! Don’t hesitate to leave comments or questions down below!

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September 10, 2020 at 8:02 PM

Looks like an absolutely amazing trip. Who took the far away pic on the ridge btw? Was it Tony?

September 10, 2020 at 10:38 PM

No, my new Dutch friends that I met during the hike took that photo with my instructions, since it was too far to take it with Toni the tripod 🙂

May 2, 2021 at 3:44 PM

Great article ! can you tell at what time of the year you went ? and describe the weather ? thank you 🙂

June 2, 2021 at 6:40 PM

Hi! Thanks! All that info is in the article!

August 27, 2021 at 11:36 PM

Hi, what a great trip! I’m currently planning a trip to Dolomites with my mum and so far your itinerary is my favourite! and I absolutely love the photos you took! 🙂 How far in advance did you book the hotels please? I’m looking to go next year in August and just wonder if I should be booking stays already, haha! thank you!!!

August 27, 2022 at 11:16 AM

Hi, I always book when I decide to go on the trip. With Booking.com you can always change your plans when you take the free cancelation option.

August 25, 2022 at 3:35 PM

Hi, thank you so much for your very informative itinerary. I am planning to visit the Dolomites and would definitely go to Tre Cime di Lavaredo. Reading through the description in your itinerary and seeing the photo of the view from the cave you visited I am not sure if the cave is near Chiesetta Alpina or perhaps Chiesetta San Bernardo instead. Would you be able to let me know please? Thank you in advance.

August 27, 2022 at 11:11 AM

Hi, I quote my blog post: “Before continuing also make sure to visit the cave. You will find it taking the path up near the Chiesetta Alpina. The view from up there is epic.” Enjoy your trip!

August 27, 2022 at 11:59 AM

Hi, I’ll look up the cave when I get to Chiesetta Alpina. Thank you for the information again!

August 27, 2022 at 6:16 PM

You’re welcome! You will love it!!

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Home » Blog » Plan the Ultimate Fall Road Trip to the Dolomites of Italy

Plan the Ultimate Fall Road Trip to the Dolomites of Italy

I recently spent some time exploring the Italian Dolomites and now I am convinced that it’s one of the most beautiful places on earth! I’ve lived in mountainous places such as Colorado and the U.S. Pacific Northwest, and traveled to destinations like Peru, Alaska, Switzerland, and New Zealand… and nothing quite prepared me for the jagged peaks of the Dolomites. The scenery literally had us laughing out loud at its sheer beauty and scale!

In this blog post I am sharing all the details about our fall road trip around the Dolomites, including everything you need to know to plan your own visit! You’ll find information about where to stay, what to see, a packing guide, location map, suggested itinerary, and more!

Disclaimer : This blog post is in collaboration with  Backcountry.com and features some affiliate links. This means I get a small commission if you make a purchase (at no extra cost to you). Use code RENEE15 to get 15% off your first Backcountry order (some exclusions apply). You can also learn more about my affiliate policy  here . Thank you for the support!

The Dolomites are a mountain range located in north-eastern Italy, close to the border of Austria. Although they are entirely within Italy, you could be fooled into thinking that you are in Austria due to the style of architecture that dominates the region, and with the most common language being German. This is due to the region belonging to the Austro-Hungarian empire until it was annexed by Italy in 1918.

The mountains in the Italian Dolomites are some of the most dramatic you will find anywhere on earth, and are a haven to outdoor adventurers and tourists year-round. Popular activities during the summer months are hiking, climbing, and biking. Whereas in the winter over 130 kilometers of ski slopes and 400 ski lifts keep visitors coming back again and again.

When to Visit the Dolomites for Fall Colors

We chose to visit the Dolomites in October (2019), partly because of the reduced crowds, but also due to the INSANE fall colors that surround the region at this time of year. Timing fall colors can be difficult as the dates of peak colors can vary year-to-year depending on the weather.

Our research showed that the most common peak autumn colors were around the 15th-25th of October , so we planned our trip within this window. Lucky for us, these dates ended up working out perfectly this year and we arrived to an incredible display of color that lasted throughout our stay.

How to get to Northern Italy

Getting to northern Italy is fairly easy. There are numerous major airports that are within a short driving distance, with the most common for Dolomites access being Milan and Venice . We opted to fly into Milan, pick up a rental car, and drive approximately 4 hours to our first destination in the Dolomites (see a suggested itinerary further down this blog post!) Another option would be to fly into a neighboring country, with cities such as Munich, Zurich, Innsbruck being relatively close.

• Zurich Airport – Switzerland: 5-6 hours
• Malpensa Airport – Milan, Italy:  4-5 hours
• Munich International Airport – Germany: 3-4 hours
• Marco Polo International Airport – Venice, Italy: 2-3 hours
• Innsbruck Airport – Austria: 2-3 hours

How long to spend in the Dolomites

How long you spend exploring the Dolomites of Italy will depend on your style of travel, how much time you typically enjoy spending at each destination, and whether or not your priority is to capture photos.

My husband and I are professional photographers and one of our main goals when traveling is to capture images. We therefore typically allow for longer at each destination to account for any potential bad weather days, changing autumn colors, etc. Our trip to the Dolomites was 8 nights total, split between two main destinations (see more info below).

If you aren’t so focused on capturing photographs then I would say about 5 nights would be a nice amount of time to see the areas highlights.

Where to stay in the Dolomites

The Dolomites has a variety of small towns you can base yourself in. Accommodation options include guest houses, hotels, rifugios, vacation rentals ( Airbnb / VRBO ), tent camping, or staying in a camper van. We opted to stay in apartments booked through VRBO and this ended up suiting our needs really well. Below are the two towns we chose to split our time between:

Ortisei (Urtijëi)

We spent three nights in Ortisei and found it to be a great base to access a lot of the western Dolomites, including Seisler Alm, Val Di Funes, Seceda, St. Valentin Church/Siusi, and Gardena Pass. Note that the town is called Urtijëi in German, which can confuse some visitors.

There weren’t a lot of food options open in October when we visited due to it being the off-season, but there was a couple of really nice restaurants that suited us fine for the time we were there (definitely check out Restaurant & Pizzeria Cascade! )

Cortina D’Ampezzo

Cortina D’Ampezzo was another great base for our activities. We were there for 5 nights and used this as a base to explore the areas further east in the Italian Dolomites, including Tre Cime Di Lavaredo, Passo Giau, Lago Di Braies, Lago Federa, etc.

Cortina D’Ampezzo is actually quite a large town, and numerous food options were open despite it being off-season. With that said, never trust opening hours stated on Google Maps during autumn because many restaurants said they were open when they weren’t. Our favorite food stop in Cortina was the restaurant at Hotel Ciasa Lorenzi , I would definitely recommend checking it out!

Getting around the Italian Dolomites

I think by far the best way to get around the Dolomites is by car . This allows you to have freedom of when and where you want to go, especially in shoulder seasons when there are limited gondolas open. We also noticed that there were limited public transport options available in many of the areas we visited.

We opted to rent our car in Milan and dropped it off in Venice (for a small one-way fee). In fact, we always research car rentals through Sky Scanner , Priceline , and Car Rentals to ensure we get the best deal possible. Be mindful that most rentals in Europe are for manual transmission, so you need to request automatic if that is your preference.

Note that Italian drivers are quite speedy and can be slightly aggressive in the way they navigate traffic – it’s totally normal! Also keep in mind that there are tolls on the major highways (cash or card is fine) and many roads have speed cameras .

Things to know before you visit

• Food options are limited in the Dolomites during autumn. Don’t trust that just because Google Maps says that somewhere will be open that it actually will be.
• Consider traveling with friends to save money. There are a lot of VRBO/Airbnb style accommodations with space for four or more people, and splitting the cost of this will make it cheap for everyone. This also helps break up the costs of entrance and parking fees if you can carpool places.
• A lot of the rifugios, gondolas, cable cars, etc are closed during fall. Be sure to check opening dates online before relying on them to be running.
• The Dolomites are in Italy, and thus use the Euro currency. Make sure to always have some cash on hand as we found that some smaller stores do not accept credit card.
• There are speed cameras in a lot of the towns in the Dolomites. Definitely stick to the speed limit not only for your safety, but also for the sake of your bank account.
• Most people we encountered spoke some English, though keep in mind that Italian and German are the primary languages. It helps to have Google Translate handy!

Dolomites Fall Packing List

Temperatures and conditions can vary during fall in the Dolomites. The average high for mid-late October is around 43-53° Fahrenheit/6-12° Celsius, and the average low is 31-39° Fahrenheit/-1-4° Celsius. It snowed on the mountain peaks during our visit and we did get a couple of days of rain. Below I have suggested some packing items based on what I found most useful during our 8 days, factoring in that we spent most of our time sight-seeing and hiking.

This blog post and the items below are in collaboration with Backcountry.com , who are my go-to for purchasing outdoor and travel gear. They offer free 2-day shipping on orders over $50, easy returns, 24/7 advice from their amazing Gearheads, and they support incredible causes like The Nature Conservancy. Backcountry have kindly offered my readers 15%   off  first-time online orders using code  RENEE15 !  *some exclusions apply

Outer Layers

I found myself reaching for the below outer layers almost everyday of our trip. Some days the cold lows plus icy wind chill even had me layering every single one haha. Most importantly, I would ensure you have at least one warm insulation layer and one waterproof layer for adventure we went on.

For hiking adventures I found myself using the Arc’teryx Cerium LT Down Jacket + Black Diamond Liquid Point Rain Jacket . Then for more casual sight-seeing adventures I was often reaching for my warm Columbia South Canyon Sherpa Lined Jacket (also waterproof) and cozy options such as the Carve Designs Roley Cowl Neck Sweatshirt and Patagonia Retro Pile Vest .

Again, I found myself reaching for these pieces frequently during our time in the Dolomites. My Icebreaker Quantum Full Zipped Jacket was perfect for layering when hiking, and my Patagonia Fjord Flannel and Backcountry Crewneck Sweatshirt were my go-to’s for more casual moments.

Base Layers

Breathable and versatile base layers are your best bet for a trip to the Dolomites. Make sure to pack a least one long-sleeve top (I opted for The North Face HyperLayer Crew Top ) and one short sleeve (the Icebreaker Sphere Crew Shirt is my favorite). Then I would also suggest packing a pair of thermal bottoms for layering under pants during any super chilly mornings. Icebreaker make my favorite thermals and I packed the BodyFit 175 Everyday Leggings for this trip.

Black on black on black 😉 I pretty much just packed a variety of black pants for our trip to the Dolomites haha. My go-to’s were the Backcountry Sundial Tights (fleece lined and cozy!), the Backcountry Millvue Active Leggings , and a pair of black jeans . I alternated the different options depending on how cold it was and what kind of activities we were doing that day. You can’t really go wrong with this set.

Waterproof Shoes

Comfortable, sturdy, and waterproof shoes are a must if you plan to explore the Dolomites. I opted to pack one pair of hiking boots ( Danner Arika Hikers ) and one pair of slightly more casual shoes ( Blundstone Super 550 Series Boot ). Both served me well and I didn’t find myself needing anything else.

You will want some kind of day bag for your adventures in the Dolomites. Being a photographer, I opted for the Peak Design Everyday Backpack (which also acts as a camera bag). If you don’t have a ton of photography gear then I would recommend a bag like the Osprey Skarab 30L or something more casual like a Fjallraven Kanken .

Accessories

These four items are a must! You will 100% want a warm hat/beanie and some kind of gloves during your time in the Dolomites as it gets chilly in the mornings and evenings. Packing a scarf/neck warmer would also be handy if you have the room. A reusable water bottle is another essential (please don’t buy single-use plastic water bottles), and I also used my Petzl Actik headlamp on numerous sunrise/sunset hiking adventures.

Best Places to Visit in the Dolomites

There are almost endless places you could explore in the Italian Dolomites! I have listed some of our favorites below, including some extra information to help you plan your visit. I also marked them all on this map :

St. Valentin Church/Siusi

In the western part of the Dolomites lies the quaint town of Siusi. Sitting on the hilltop above is St. Valentin Church, which can be accessed via a short walk from town. It is a beautiful spot to visit in the early hours of the day or during sunset, with the mountains providing the perfect backdrop for photographs. Besides its picturesque location below Alpe de Siusi, St. Valentin Church is also marveled for its stunning frescoes inside and on its outer walls.

Visiting Seceda was one of the most memorable experiences of our trip to the Dolomites. We woke at 3am so we could make the hike up to Seceda for sunrise. It’s about a 1.5 – 2.5 hour hike to the top depending on your pace. The hike is quite steep, so be prepared and bring enough water. It can also be bitterly cold up there in fall, so pack plenty of layers! We had 2 jackets and were still cold when we got to the top earlier than expected. Make sure to take your time walking down and enjoy the views on the way back.

Note: There is a gondola that runs to the top of Seceda during peak seasons. If you don’t feel like hiking to the top, you can use this depending on the time you visit and if it is currently operating.

Val Di Funes

Val Di Funes was one of our favorite areas in the Dolomites. Our first stop was the Church of St Johann near the town of Santa Magdalena (listed as ‘Kirche St. Johann in Ranui’ on Google Maps). There is a fence which prevents you from entering the property, but there is a small viewing platform which allows you to see the church and snap some photos from a distance. This was definitely worth a quick stop, the backdrop of the Odle mountain range is truly beautiful from here! Apparently you can pay to visit the church but the view from the free viewing platform was perfect for us.

Next we parked in the town of Santa Magdalena and walked about 20 minutes up the road to a viewing point which would provide an epic view of the town at sunset (listed as ‘Chiesa di Santa Maddalena’ on Google Maps). You are not able to drive this road and will get a parking fine if you try. It was definitely worth the walk, the view from up here was incredible and a great way to end the day.

Alpe De Siusi/Seisler Alm

Seisler Alm is the largest high alpine meadow in Europe, and it was absolutely breathtaking! We parked at Compatsch, then walked 1 hour to a location that overlooks some cute cabins for sunrise (photo location marked on the map featured above). You are able to walk as far or little as you feel, but we chose that spot in particular because it is very photogenic for sunrise. Due to limited parking, driving into Seisler Alm is restricted unless you are staying at a hotel within the area (which can be expensive), so factor this into your plans.

Sadly we didn’t get the best weather at Alpe De Siusi (as you can see in the above photo) but it was still beautiful nonetheless!

Gardena Pass (Passo Gardena)

This is one of the main passes in the Italian Dolomites, and it’s absolutely spectacular in fall. Golden larch trees cover the mountainsides and the roads wind through some of the most beautiful scenery you have ever seen. At the top there is a parking lot with access to a beautiful little trail that provides views of the Sella mountains that we really enjoyed. You can also visit the Gardena Pass Chapel while up there.

Giau Pass (Passo Giau)

Passo Giau is another of the popular passes in the Dolomites and provides stunning, 360 degree mountain views. Up at the top of the pass there is a rifugio and many hiking options for those that want to stretch their legs. There is also a small hotel that is open during busier seasons in case you wanted to spend a night close by.

Tre Cime de Lavaredo

I think Tre Cime de Lavaredo might be my favorite area that we visited in the Italian Dolomites. The peaks are absolutely mind-blowing! There are hiking trails, both long and short, that leave from the parking lot and will provide you with some of the best mountain views you can find on earth. There are also multiple refugios (season dependent) that you can stay at in this area, one right at the parking lot, and two others along the hiking trails.

Note: There is a $30 Euro entrance fee per car to enter the area.

Lago Di Braies

In fact, Lago Di Braies felt like the Lake Louise of Italy. It’s so beautiful, but also incredibly busy! With that said, it was still worth visiting to enjoy the scenery for a couple of hours… and the hot chocolate at the cafe there was to die for! The lake is accessible right from the parking lot, and there is a loop trail that goes around the whole lake if you feel like going for a walk. There are also larger hiking trails that leave from this area.

Note: Parking was $6 Euro per car.

Madonna Della Corona

Madonna Della Corona is not in the Dolomites, but it is a short detour on the way to the Dolomites from Milan. To visit the church you park at the town of Spiazzi and then walk down a short, but steep trail. Be sure to take some water with you, we didn’t and regretted it! There are a few food options in town, so you can get a bite to eat here if you are feeling hungry.

Suggested Dolomites Itinerary

We spent a little over a week in the Dolomites and felt like it was a good amount of time for us as photographers who like to take our time to really explore an area. With that said, we felt that about 5-6 days would be perfect for the average traveler. Here is my suggested itinerary for an incredible time in the Dolomites:

Drive from Milan to the Dolomites, making a short detour to Madonna Della Carona on the way. Eat lunch in Spiazzi, then continue towards Ortisei where you will spend the night. If you have daylight hours remaining on your way through to Ortisei, check out St. Valentin Church in Siusi for sunset. Have dinner in Ortisei. We enjoyed Restaurant and Pizzeria Cascades and ate there multiple times while in Ortisei (options were very limited in October).

Hike up to Seceda in the morning. It’s likely that the gondola will be closed if you visit in fall (most in the Dolomites will be), so walking will be your only option. Pack plenty of water and snacks. We did a loop that ended up being around 9.5 miles and 2700 feet of elevation gain, so it’s a pretty tiring walk! But definitely worth it for the incredible views.

If you started your hike up to Seceda nice and early then you should have enough time to get back to your accommodation in Ortisei, rest up for a little while, and then head over to Val Di Funes for sunset. Visit the Church of St. Johann when you first arrive. This is a beautiful stop and great for photos (there is a platform to stand on so you don’t disturb the farmers pastures).

Next, park in town and follow the crowds up to Panorama Di Santa Magdalena (as it’s named on Google Maps). From here you will get an epic view for sunset over Santa Magdalena and the Odle mountains in the distance. We chose to have dinner at Pizzeria Restaurant Viel Nois in San Pietro on the way back to our apartment and it was quite good.

Start day 3 by driving to Alpe De Siusi and walking around Europe’s largest high alpine meadows. You can park at Compatsch and hike in as little or as far as you’d like, it’s such a beautiful area out there. Our favorite spot was about an hour walk towards Adler Lodge Alpe. Please note that you must park at Compatsch and not drive beyond this point as it is a private road reserved for locals and hotel guests only.

Once you have finished up at Alpe Di Siusi, it should be time to head back to your accommodation and check out. Grab lunch and then drive towards Cortina D’Ampezzo, stopping at Gardena Pass along the way. Up at Gardena Pass there’s a cute little church to check out, as well as hiking trails that you can follow. We did a short walk along the trail that heads south towards some towering peaks and that was a nice little hike to stretch the legs and break up the drive.

From here, take your time getting to your accommodation in Cortina D’Ampezzo , admiring the views along the way. There is another pass along the way that was really beautiful, and there are a lot of cute mountain towns you can stop at to stretch your legs. Finish your day by checking in to your accommodation and having a bite to eat – we really liked the restaurant at Hotel Ciasa Lorenzi.

Start your day by eating breakfast at Pasticceria Panificio Alvera (one of our favorite food stops in the Italian Dolomites) and head out for a drive to Passo Giau . The drive up to the pass is beautiful and the whole area is surrounded by golden larch trees at this time of the year. Once at the pass, there are multiple hiking options depending on how adventurous you are feeling. We chose to walk the short but well-maintained path up beyond the hotel to the top of the hill.

Next, drive towards Tre Cime Di Lavaredo , stopping at both Lago Di Misurina and Lago Di Antorno along the way. Once you reach Rifugio Auronzo make sure you have your hiking boots on, snacks and water packed, and set out on the Tre Cime Di Lavaredo loop hike. It’s a 10.3km hike that does a loop around the incredible Tre Cime mountains. Although 10.3km might sound long to some, this hike can be completed by almost anyone assuming you leave time for rest stops. It’s quite an easy hike with not too much uphill, and the views are absolutely breathtaking the whole way around.

Upon completing the hike head back towards Cortina D’Ampezzo, but stop for dinner at Quinz Ristorante dell Locanda or Pizzeria Edelweiss, both located along Lago Di Misurina.

After breakfast, head towards Lago Di Braies (about a 50 minute drive). The earlier you can do this, the better. Lago Di Braies is one of the most popular places in the Dolomites, and gets extremely busy. Don’t let that turn you off though, it’s definitely worth seeing. Be sure to grab a hot chocolate from the cafe near the parking lot, it might be one of the best I’ve ever had! Take a walk on the trail that goes around the whole lake to escape a lot of the crowds.

Next, head back towards Cortina D’Ampezzo, stopping at both Lago Di Dobbiaco and Lago Di Landro along the way. Spend the rest of the day checking out any areas you felt that you would like to see more of.

Wake up, cry about having to leave, then make your way back to the airport. Another option would be to head south to Venice (what we did!) and enjoy some different scenery for a couple of days. 

Responsible Travel

As always, please respect local rules and leave every place you travel better than you found it . Here are some general tips for being a responsible traveler :

• There shouldn’t be any physical evidence that you were there – don’t carve your name into things, don’t leave love locks, don’t litter. For more information about how to reduce your physical impact, check out the 7 Leave No Trace Principles – a program encouraging sustainable exploration of the outdoors.
• Learn how to say “hello” and “thank you” in the local language. Educate yourself on local customs and actions that could be considered offensive (like taking photographs without permission). The first step to being a responsible tourist is being a respectful tourist.
• Think green – don’t leave lights on in your hotel room, don’t leave water running, pack a reusable water bottle/utensils and avoid buying single use plastics, and take public transport when it is an option. Check out my blog post: 6 Easy Things You Can Do to Reduce Your Impact on the Planet .
• Purchase goods from local people to directly support the economy. Choose locally made handicrafts instead of mass-produced magnets, mugs or keychains. When bargaining for goods, consider appropriate pricing rather than a “sweet deal.”
• Don’t participate in harmful forms of animal tourism/entertainment. Check out the World Animal Protection’s  guide to an animal-friendly holiday  for more information on what to look for in wildlife attractions.
• Consider off-setting your carbon emissions for air travel.  My Climate , Gold Standard  and  Carbon Fund  are non-profit carbon offset organizations that I have found to be easy to use and are doing a lot of good in the world.

PIN to read later!

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21 comments

DOES ANYONE KNOW THE HIGHS AND LOW MONTHS IN COMPACCIO, ALPI SI SIUSI, ITALY. THANK YOU.

Your post is awesome! We are planning to visit Oct 2022 and could you tell us how much did you pay for a car rental? Petrol for the 7 days and any tolls and taxes added?

Thanks so much

Hey I’m actually planing my trip for summer and I’d like to know how much are the tolls motorway etc. and tunnels if you went through any. Thanks

These photos are INCREDIBLE! Thank you for sharing another beautiful trip 🙂

Hi, great post. very informative.

I would lke to know if i can all roads are accessible in dolomites from nov 12- nov 19. If yes, can i handle with 2 wheel drive or is it mandatory to have 4 wheel drive.

Any tips or suggestions about driving are welcome.

Thank you for make me dream to travel again ! 🙂 I really love the color of your Arcteryx Cerium LT coat, do you know by any chance the name of the color ? Thank you so much!

• Pingback: Plan the Ultimate Fall Road Trip to the Dolomites of Italy – Travel Ideas Blog

Thanks for this beautiful post! Do you have any Venice recommendations as well? Where did you stay, top things to see, best places to eat? Thanks again, your blog posts really help with trip planning! 🙂

Hi Renee, my girlfriend and I are planning to go to the Dolomites this year in September. We love hiking and especially wild camping. Do you know if this is allowed in the Dolomites? Thanks for your awesome blog. It helped us a lot with our plannings 🙂

Planning a trip to the Dolomites this year! In the picture you have in this blog post with your “outer gear” listed – where is that? I know in a picture above, you list it as “Tre Cime di Lavaredo”, but when I look it up I do not see anything that looks like that. Looking for the hike name if you remember!!! Thank you!!!

Spectacular photos, thank you! We’re heading to Milan in SEPT 2020 on an REI hiking trip. Lake Como and St Moritz are two of the primary stop overs and then on our own to Florence. Your trip details confirmed that Italy is spectacular. Any Florence tips??

Sadly we didn’t get to Florence this time but I would definitely like to visit one day! Enjoy your time in Italy and Switzerland ☺️

Great post! One thing: Ortisei is called St. Ulrich in German. It is called Urtijëi in Ladin which is the most spoken language in that area.

This is such an amazing and detailed guideline! Dolomites have been on my wish list. Now I’ll make sure I go during autumn for the beautiful colors. Thank you so much, Renee, for all the thoughts and effort you put into this post.

I really appreciate that – thank you Cynthia!

I am sooo excited to go here now even more than before!!

Beautiful pictures and very well explained every detail… love this blog, definitely will be visiting the Dolomites soon! Thank you! ♥️

I never even had the Dolomites on my to do list before your blog post, but I certainly do now. Amazing photos and so much useful information. I’m definitely going to reference this when I organise my own trip. Thanks once again Renee for your fantastic travel advice.

That makes me so happy to hear! 🙂

Your content is, as Always, top notch ! Thanks so much for this post, the pictures are AMAZING (like, really in love with these fall colours), I’m a fan of the packing list (even though none of the links work for me as I live in France…) and this itinerary is interesting. Definitely enticing, I sure should add the Dolomites to the “GO SOON” travel list – especially since it’s just on the other side of the border !

Thank you Marion 🙂 I hope you can take your own trip to the Dolomites soon!

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The best things to do in the Dolomites, Italy

Updated On 29th November, 2021

Are you going to Italy and looking for the best things to do in the Dolomites? Are you embarking on a Dolomites road trip itinerary and you’re looking for the best places to visit? Then you’re in luck, because these are the 8 best things to do and places to visit in the Dolomites.

In this blog post, I’m going to highlight the best things to do in Dolomites, the best places to visit in the Dolomites and the best adventures to go on. This is the blog post for you whether or not you are looking for the best hikes in Italy, the best places to visit in Italy, or the next destination for your Italy road trip. Although the nature and the tranquility of the Dolomites couldn’t be further from the hustle and bustle that is Rome , it is still one of the best places to visit in Italy, even for a short weekend break. It’s somewhere that should definitely be on your  Europe bucket list !

Travellers come from near and far to visit the Dolomites. Best known for its iconic hikes, crystal-clear emerald lakes, and epic drives, the Dolomites is the perfect place to visit if you want a proper outdoor trip!

You can visit the Dolomites all year round but it is increasingly a popular destination during the autumn, when the colours burst into life, and the iconic pine forests are painted in their iconic warm, golden tones. If you’ve never visited the Dolomites, then this is when you need to go, and this blog post will tell you everything you need to know to plan your Dolomites road trip. 

Other travel guides you might find useful…

• Europe: the ultimate travel guide
• Top tips for travelling in Europe  
• The best things to do in Austria

The best things to do in Switzerland

• Rome: a complete city guide
• The best things to do in Sicily
• A bucket list of road trips in Europe

Where are the Dolomites?

This UNESCO World Heritage site is a beautiful mountainous region spread across Italy, Austria , Germany , and Switzerland . The Dolomites are in the region of South Tyrol in Northern Italy, but as it’s wedged in-between Italy and Austria, their influence can also be felt. So much so that I encountered more German-speaking locals than Italian-speaking during my 7-day stay. 

As a result, most of the places that you’ll visit in the Dolomites will have both an Italian and a German name – both of which I will reference throughout this blog. 

How to get to the Dolomites…

The Dolomites borders 4 different countries, so you could opt for a long drive to reach this famous mountain range and add it to the ultimate Europe road trip , or fly into one of many smaller airports in the region, such as Treviso, Verona and Innsbruck (Austria). However, the main international airport closest to the Dolomites is Venice, Marco Polo, so that is where I recommend flying into if you can.

The added bonus of flying into Venice is the opportunity for a short city-break to finish your trip, where you can replace the hiking boots with something a little more glamorous. 

Check flight deals here.

At only 3.5hrs away, the Dolomites is easily accessible via public transport, with a fantastic bus service, but I would still recommend hiring a car to make the most of this vast region, especially during the golden hours of the day. Car hire is relatively cheap, but it’s still worth shopping around for a good deal. I rented a small car from Rentalcars.com and paid €130 for 7-days. You can expect to pay anywhere between €100-250, before insurance. 

When to visit the Dolomites…

Being a UNESCO Heritage site, the Dolomites is surrounded by so much natural beauty that it’s worth visiting at any time of the year really. It just depends on what you want to do and what season you’d like to explore it in.

However, it is argued that the best time to visit the Dolomites is in September & early October, bang in the middle of Autumn. This is when the summer crowds have died down, but also when the beautiful autumnal colours emerge and envelop the landscapes over the lakes, the meadows, and alpine forests. This is truly a destination for mountain lovers.

Most hiking trails will remain open at this time of year during your Dolomites road trip, but I’d still recommend visiting either late-summer or early-autumn, as early snowfall in October can lead to peaks being closed, and with it a whole network of hiking trails that access the most incredible views. It would be a shame to miss out! 

As a photographer, I wanted to experience the iconic glow of the Dolomites in autumn bloom, so I visited in early October. However… as luck would have it, the Dolomites had the earliest snowfall in years, and the orange peaks of the trees were quickly blanketed in soft, white snow. Not what I had hoped for, but equally as magical.

Where to stay in the Dolomites… 

There are many small towns dotted around the Dolomites, with their own character and access to popular spots, but the most popular area to stay in is Val Gardena, which consists of three villages: Ortisei, Santa Cristina and Selva di Val Gardena.

Out of those three, Ortisei is the most popular and vibrant town, nestled in the valley between Seceda and Alpe di Siusi. It has a few shops, a public pool, and a variety of cozy restaurants – my favourite being Ristorante Cascade, where the risotto was delicious.

Ortisei may also be the most convenient place to stay for your Dolomites road trip itinerary as it is connected to many of the popular attractions, in some cases without the need of a car. Two of the most iconic hikes on the aforementioned mountains are accessible by cable car from Ortisei. 

Cortina d’Ampezzo is another popular town, a little more lively than Ortisei but also located close to popular hiking destinations like Tre Crime Laveredo, Lago di Sorapiss, and Lago di Braies – one of the most Instagrammable locations in Europe.

Brixen and Bolzano are two other great options of towns to stay in.

Without further ado… Below are some of the best things to do in the Dolomites and the best places to visit during your Dolomites road trip itinerary.

The best things to do in the Dolomites, Italy...

1. row, row, row your boat on lago di braies (pragser wildsee)..

Probably the most famous spot in the Dolomites (and for good reason), is the postcard-perfect lake, Lago di Braies. This emerald blue oasis is high on everyone’s list of top places to visit in the Dolomites, so I recommend getting there early in the morning (before sunrise) to get the best experience. Don’t worry, I’ll be sharing some lesser-known places as well, that don’t require the early alarm.

Whatever time of year you visit, early mornings at Lago di Braies will undoubtedly include a row of photographers lining the banks with their tripods at the ready. Don’t let this phase you as there is still plenty of space for everyone to appreciate this magical spot. It’s an easy walk around the base of the lake as well, where you’ll encounter fewer and fewer people. The circuit won’t take more than an hour, and it’s a must-do on your Dolomites road trip itinerary.

During summer and late autumn (basically before the lake freezes over), one of the best things to do in the Dolomites is to hire the classic wooden rowboats, to explore the lake from the water. They cost €18 for 30 mins which is a little pricey, but worth it to feel totally immersed by the surroundings. Besides, they are not strict on how long you’re in the boat for anyway.

Note: you cannot swim in the Lago di Braies.

2. Capture the sunset at Lago di Carezza (Karersee).

Lago di Carezza, also known as the Rainbow lake, is another stunning alpine attraction you must visit during your Dolomites road trip. Even though Lago di Braies is the most famous, Lago di Carezza can be more impressive. With a backdrop of jagged peaks and rows of alpine forest, the impossibly still waters of Lago di Carezza create a perfect mirror reflection which is a sight not to be missed. 

For the best chance of clear conditions, I recommend visiting at sunrise or at sunset. I photographed this place at sunset all the way through to blue hour, where the sky played canvas to an array of rich colours.

You might think after one lake you’ve seen them all, but that really doesn’t apply to the Dolomites! One of the best things to do in the Dolomites is to see as many lakes as possible, and when the weather is warmer (and the rules allow it), to take a dip. There are so many more lakes in the Dolomites to see, and I’ve listed the best ones below: 

• Lago di Dobbaico 
• Lago d’Antorno
• Lago di Fie
• Lago di Sorapis (note: you cannot swim here)
• Lago di Landro

3. Hike to Lago di Sorapis.

Although I have yet to visit Lago di Sorapis, and I’ve mentioned on my list of the best lakes in the Dolomites, it’s definitely worth a special mention.

This alpine lake really is a hidden gem in the Dolomites as it is one of the few lakes where you can’t simply park up and walk to. So if you’re drawn in by the postcard pictures, one of the best things to do on your Dolomites road trip is to throw on your hiking boots and head out for a 2-hour hike that is mostly uphill. 

Note: it’s illegal to swim in Lago di Sorapis.

4. Take the cable car up to Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Elm).

Alpe di Siusi is a UNESCO Heritage Site and the largest alpine meadow in Europe. It’s one of the most iconic places to visit in the Dolomites, to say the least!

Known for its rolling hills dotted with cute wooden cabins and the famous rocky peaks in the background, Alpe di Siusi is incredibly popular amongst photographers. There’s something for everyone though, whether that be photography, skiing or hiking.

However, the main thing people seem to struggle with is getting to the plateau in the first place. Alpe Di Siusi is not accessible by car unless you’re staying at one of the hotels or cabins in the area.

So, to visit Alpe di Siusi, you have a few options:

• drive to the popular parking spot in Compatsch (€18 per day), and make your way on foot from there. It’s a 30-minute walk, and you can only park your car there before 9 am. After that, the road is not accessible one-way. 
• take the 170 bus from Bolzano that stops at Compatsch, and then walk.
• take the Mont Seuc cable car up from Ortisei.

Taking the cable car to Alpe di Siusi is, in my opinion, the best option and one of the best things to do in the Dolomites. This is the easiest way to reach Alpe di Siusi, and avoids any uphill walking… something of a luxury in the Dolomites!

Since Alpe di Siusi is on a mountain plateau, the walks are fairly easy but can be made harder by taking the longer circuits – some of which are up to 6 hours long. However, I recommend simply following the main path from the cable car down through the alpine forest and into the “hotel region”, where you’ll get a real taste of this beautiful landscape. 

One of the most popular views is just after hotel Malga Sanon, as the road bends to the left where a viewpoint overlooks the whole landscape and the famous cabins that line the foreground.

In a rush? Another fun thing to do on your Dolomites road trip itinerary is to hire some e-bikes. You can pick these up in Ortisei before taking the cable car up, and I’ve heard they are so much fun and a great way to explore Alpe di Siusi. My friend recommended Sport Hans, so check them out.

I was hoping for green hills, but very happily settled for untouched fresh white snow!

5. Go hiking in the historical Tre Cime di Lavaredo (Drei Zinnen).

This three-peaked rocky pinnacle is one of the most famous places to visit in the Dolomites and it’s easily accessible. For the hardcore mountaineers, it’s a half-day hike up the mountain to reach Tre Cime; definitely one of the best things to do in the Dolomites if you’re an active traveller!

Don’t panic if you’re looking for something more gentle as part of your Dolomites road trip itinerary, though… for the rest of us there’s a car park right at the top, alongside a restaurant (Rifugio Auronzo) and the start of a much easier trailhead. The parking is free, but to enter the national park (at the bottom of the mountain) there’s a €30 day fee. Worth it if you ask me. 

The main trail from the car park is a relatively flat 10km loop circuit around Tre Cime that takes roughly 4 hours to complete, although it’s totally acceptable to walk up to the first rifugio (resthouse) and back. Either way, you’re in for some incredible views.

Trail 101 wraps around the mountain in an anticlockwise direction, while Trail 105 takes you the other way. It technically doesn’t matter which you take, unless you’re up there for sunrise or sunset. Trail 101 is your sunrise trail and 105 is the best for sunset. 

While you’re up there, soak up the views but also keep an eye out for WW1 artifacts. This region has so much history and was part of the front line, so there are still remnants of trenches carved into the rock.

6. Feel on top of the world in Seceda.

Seceda is another jaw-dropping mountain ridge, reminiscent of a dinosaur’s back. Seceda is known for the many Geisley peaks that line its ridge, causing hysteria with many landscape photographers, especially when the clouds and fog pour over the summit and tumble away into the valley below. Hiking the Seceda Ridge is one of the best things to do in the Dolomites in summer and late spring/early autumn.

It is much less accessible than most however, with the Seceda cable car from Ortisei providing the only real way up. That’s assuming you don’t want to hike a near-vertical 2 hours. Much like everything else, the cable car costs €30 and takes just under 20 mins to reach the top.

Sadly, due to the aforementioned early snowfall, Seceda was off-limits. In autumn it is supposed to be spectacular, however. Something to bear in mind if you are looking for things to do in the Dolomites in winter!

7. Take in the views on one of the most scenic drives in the Dolomites: Val Gardena Pass (Gröden).

For road-trippers and landscape lovers, this is not a road to be missed. There’s nothing quite like driving in this mountain range, putting a playlist on, and just winding along, enveloped by a seemingly never-ending vista of beauty. For me, it was one of the best things to do in the Dolomites and a highlight of my Dolomites road trip itinerary.

Val Gardena Pass is one of the best (if not the best) drives in the Dolomites. At the top, there are so many cute cabins that you can walk up to and imagine yourself living in, and the view of the road that falls away behind you is stunning. The cabins might convince you to drop everything, leave your city life behind and become a full-time mountain girl (or boy). I found one that was perfect for my 5’2″ self.

Other beautiful scenic drives you can take in the Dolomites:

• Passo Sella
• Passo Pordoi

8. Go swimming in Lake Fie (Völser Weiher).

One of the lesser-known places to visit in the Dolomites, but I was so pleasantly surprised with this one! 

After 2 days of chasing my photographer partner around the snowy mountain tops, I was finally rewarded with some warm autumnal colours at this lake. It was so peaceful and surprisingly warm…. the weather, not the water. Although, Völsher Weiher is one of only a few swimmable lakes in the Dolomites, so if you feel like going for a dip, you totally can, and it’s one of the best things to do in the Dolomites! Just brace yourself for chilly mountain water, and check which lakes you can swim in before you go.

Otherwise, just take a mindful walk around the lake and surrounding forest area, then grab a hot drink and put your feet up… on one of their sunbeds, can you believe it! It can be easy to spend 7 days chasing sunsets on a Dolomites road trip itinerary, so moments like these where you can relax in nature are always well spent.

And that’s it! Those are what I believe to be the best things to do in the Dolomites, especially during a Dolomites road trip itinerary in autumn.

For anyone planning a visit to the Dolomites in summer, you can actually stay in the rifugios located in the most epic spots along the mountains – like the one at Tre Cime di Lavaredo. I expect they book up fast though, so you’ll want to plan in advance.

I would also add the following to your list of places to visit in the Dolomites in summer:

• Cinque Torri

What are your favourite things to do in the Dolomites?

Where are your top tips for planning a Dolomites road trip itinerary ? Anything you’d add?

I’m Sté, short for Stephanie. I’m a 27 year-young photographer & travel blogger who travels between places capturing the untold, the unseen, and the stories in-between. Fuelled by creativity and curiosity, my hope is to inspire others to explore the world beyond and within themselves.

See all of Ste’s adventures here.

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A wonderful dolomites road trip: an itinerary for non-hikers.

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The Dolomites had long been on our list of must visit destinations in Italy. The iconic images of the jagged mountain peaks surrounded by lush greenery filled our Instagram feed. We were yearning to explore this beautiful region. So during this past European summer, we made sure a Dolomites road trip was turned into a reality.

We love exploring the great outdoors, and multiple visits to the Alps has fuelled this further. Yet, our experience in the Alps had been concentrated in Switzerland. We’ve seen the mighty Matterhorn in Zermatt , hiked amongst the cows in Grindelwald and discovered the hidden gem of Adelboden . With Italy being our favourite country in the world, we knew it was time to finally make our long awaited trip to the Italian Dolomites.

Now, whilst we love the outdoors, I wouldn’t exactly call us the most experienced hikers. In fact, half day hikes are more our jam. We definitely push ourselves when we want to. I experienced jelly legs after hiking up to Pulpit Rock in Norway and hiked along the coast in the Cinque Terre. However, as we were planning our Dolomites road trip, I also found myself with a bung knee. This reluctant hiker was even more hesitant around my ability to do the hikes we wanted!

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Dolomites for non-hikers?

I started to do more research on the Dolomites and wondered whether it was worth visiting if we couldn’t partake in hiking. A google search for “Dolomites for non-hikers” would serve up results for the best hikes in the dolomites. Not exactly helpful!

When we found ourselves in the stunning town of Trento for a travel conference, we knew this was our opportunity to finally visit the Dolomites. Trento is located in the foothills of the Dolomites in the Trentino region. We decided to hire a car and just “wing it”, hoping we’d be able to enjoy the beauty of the Dolomites without those strenuous hikes.

I am so glad we did it. Whilst I am sure you would experience more of the beauty of the region on some of the famous hiking routes, it is still possible to experience the Dolomites without those hikes.

So, if you’re looking for a travel guide detailing the best hikes in the Dolomites, this isn’t for you . If you’re looking to undertake a Dolomites road trip at an easy pace, without the need for serious hiking gear, you’re in the right place!

Our Dolomites road trip itinerary will show you the highlights of this region in 6 amazing days.

Day 1: Start your Dolomites road trip

Before we get too far ahead of ourselves, we should ask the question: what are the Dolomites?

The Dolomites are a mountain range in the northern Italian Alps. Deemed a UNESCO World Heritage site, they are one of the most beautiful mountain ranges in the world.

The Dolomites stretch across three provinces of Italy; Belluno, South Tyrol and Trentino.  They are so high north that they border onto Austria. In fact, before World War 2, a large part of this region was part of Austria. This fact won’t go unnoticed on your trip. A significant part of the population speak German. We were surprised to find that we were more likely to find a German restaurant here than a pizza restaurant. Also, most places will have a German name and an Italian name. It can be confusing at first, but it’s important to get your head around this fact. This BBC article will help you to understand the history and political elements of the region.

Due to its location, it’s possible you’ll be arriving from many different directions. Innsbruck is to the north, whilst south of the Dolomites you’ll find Verona and Venice .

Start your journey in Verona

We were adding the Dolomites road trip onto our travels through northern Italy, so it made the most sense for us to start our journey in Verona. It was also the most economical option for car hire. It’s possible to catch a super scenic train from Verona up to Bolzano , but the car hire in Bolzano was about double the cost. During your planning stages, check all options via rentalcars.com .

For your first few nights, we recommend staying in the Val Gardena area . There are 3 main towns that you can choose from here: Ortisei, Santa Cristina Valgardena or Selva di Val Gardena.

We chose to stay in Ortisei and were really happy with this decision for our Dolomites road trip. Firstly, it appeared to be the largest town so had a good array of restaurants. Importantly, this town also has the cable cars up to some of the most scenic spots in the Dolomites area.

The drive from Verona to Ortisei will take about 2.5 hours. The majority of this can be done on the Autostrade. However, if time permits, I recommend making a pitstop in the lovely town of Trento.

Discover the hidden gem of Trento

Trento is a hidden gem of a town that is unlikely to stay hidden for much longer. Aside from it being a beautiful town in its own right, we were there for a travel bloggers conference, Traverse19. So there are a good 400 bloggers and their followers that now know about it!

Having stayed in Trento , we can recommend this as a great place to spend a night if you’re taking your trip very slowly. At the very least spend some time here taking in all of Trento’s beautiful streets and history .

Head to your home base for the next 2 days – Ortisei

After you’ve finished up in Trento, start the drive further north to Ortisei . This mountain town has a small yet quaint pedestrianised centre (it’s pretty much one road!). Yet it’s filled with an array of restaurants and accommodation options. We stayed at the Garni Panoramik , a homely chalet set just behind the town with a 5 minute walk to the city centre. Settle into your accommodation and grab some dinner.

Day 2: Road trip through some of the most stunning mountain passes

Today’s itinerary is all about windy roads and breathtaking views out your car window. In fact, there’s not much walking on day 2 of your Dolomites road trip at all.

Gardena Pass

From Ortisei, travel through the Val Gardena towards the Gardena Pass.

The Gardena Pass is an incredible windy road with stunning views of the Dolomites mountain range . It was one of the most scenic roads we travelled on through the Dolomites. There were loads of “oohs” and “aahs” as we made our way through the valley.

These mountain passes are a favourite amongst cyclists who somehow take pleasure in making their way up the steepest of hills. At times they look like they’re almost going backwards, and I wonder how on earth they manage to get up and down the hills. Good on them I say! It’s certainly not my cup of tea, and they definitely make me feel just a tad lazy.

Given the twists and turns and the amount of cyclists on the road, driving the Gardena Pass can be a little challenging at times. Jeff is our designated driver, and has had plenty of practice driving on the right hand side of the road. But the concentration required can take you away from the natural beauty in your surrounds. My advice is to turn into the parking bays often and stop and take in all the views.

Getting to the Gardena Pass

To get to the Gardena Pass, travel along the SS242 from Ortisei (the main road), then take the SS243 to stay on the Gardena Pass.

A popular stop is near Hotel Cir . There is a large free car park here and there’s the opportunity for a short walk too. If you’re looking to stretch your legs, this is a good spot. From this point, continue along for as long as you want. You’ll eventually need to turn back until you reach the SS42 again. This time, turn left to join the Sella Pass.

The Sella Pass is similar to the Gardena Pass, another amazing windy ride with sharp hairpin turns. It is one of the most famous passes in the Dolomites, connecting Val di Fassa to Val Gardena. Continue to be awed by the majestic Dolomites, as you pass the Sella Towers.

Be sure to watch those oncoming cars and cyclists around the bends. There are sometimes safety mirrors, and sometimes not.

If you’re up for more driving, consider turning off to complete the Pordoi Pass. We didn’t complete this section of the Dolomites, but from what I’ve read this appears to be another stunning drive.

On the completion of the Sella Pass, you’ll pass a town called Canazei . This is a good stop for lunch or additional supplies. We ate at a place called La Cantinetta. It was nothing fancy but decent fare, specialising in pizza.

Lago di Carezza

Continuing along the Great Dolomites Road, turn off onto the SS241 towards Carezza. This is where you’ll spot your first alpine lake. You’ll even get a glimpse of the water from your car on arrival.

Lago di Carezza is one of the stunning alpine lakes you’ve likely seen all over Instagram . Its popularity is for good reason, it’s absolutely breathtaking. An emerald green lake sitting in front of pine trees and the Rosengarten mountain range. Simply beautiful.

Due to its popularity, it’s quite a developed tourist site. There is a large paid parking lot across from the lake. It is free for the first 15 minutes, and then €1 for each hour thereafter. When we visited in June there was plenty of parking available.

The perfect pit stop

There’s a visitor centre at the parking lot with a few shops and good toilet facilities. An underground tunnel passes under the road and takes you straight to the lake.

When you visit the lake you’ll see that it is fenced off. Please respect the rules and don’t jump over it just for a picture. You’re practically on the water anyway, so you’ll be able to take in the views and get some good pics.

If you’re looking to stretch the legs, take some time here to walk along the path around the lake.

From Lago di Carezza it is around a one hour drive back to home base at Ortisei. The easiest path is continuing along the SS241 towards Bolzano and then turning right on the SS12.

By this stage of the day, we were quite worn out with all the driving and sightseeing. We were very much looking forward to a rest by the pool. However, if you want to do more sightseeing, consider stopping by the town of Bolzano if you haven’t yet visited.

Day 3: Visit Europe’s largest alpine meadow, Alpe di Suisi

Staying in Ortisei, what you may not realise is that Europe’s largest alpine meadow is literally sitting high above the mountains surrounding the town. Alpe di Suisi (or Seiser Alm) is a stunning meadow which is a must see in the Dolomites.

Alpe di Suisi is closed to traffic (except local cars) during the day. To reach it by car, you need to get up there early and stay until late. So, my suggestion is to have a break from the driving today and take the cable car.

The bright red cable cars you’ll spot in Ortisei take you up to Alpe di Suisi. Tickets cost €19.90 for a return trip. It’s a high speed cable car, so the journey is quite quick.

Once on the cable car, there should be no confusion on where to alight. There is only one mountain station up the top. In fact, you can just make out the building from the town below in Ortisei.

Arriving at Alpe di Siusi

As soon as you arrive and walk outside, you’ll realise what “Europe’s largest alpine meadow” means. Rocky mountains with a scattering of snow jut out on the horizon, in a line for about 180 degrees.  Leading up to the mountains is a lush field of green pastures, dotted with pine trees and brown mountain huts. It’s jaw droppingly beautiful. I’ve seen my fair share of the Alps and this is definitely my favourite spot.

Now, it’s totally possible to just take the cable car up to the top and take in the amazing views without going for a hike. There is a restaurant and a small shop selling souvenirs, so you could base yourself here for an hour or two if that’s all you’re looking to do.

Get your walking shoes on

If you’re okay with a short walk, there are a number of options. You’ll need to work out how much walking you’re up for, and how far you want to go. Just know you need to walk back to your starting place at the cable car station.

A really simple walk is the path to Malga Contrin . This is a mountain hut with a restaurant. There’s a front deck with table and chairs, plus umbrellas to keep you in the shade. They serve up reasonable food, a mix between German and Italian. We ate lunch here and chose to have sausages and fries, which was around €10. The service was really friendly. We loved sitting out on the deck and taking in the views. They also had a few loungers out in the sun if you prefer to just chill out with a beer in hand.

To get here take a right as you exit the cable car building. There should be a sign pointing towards Malga Contrin, on the path numbered 6A. It looks like it is uphill, but it’s only a short climb and then it is fairly flat. You’ll be walking along the highest part of the meadow, and it will allow you to take in different perspectives of the mountains before you. It should take about 15 minutes each way.

An alternative route

Another option is a longer walk through the meadow, but it does involve more ascending and descending. We did this option and it was far from strenuous. There are lots of places to stop along the way.

If you’re up for even more exploring, take a left as you exit the cable car building. You start a descent downhill, and after a minute or two turn to the right. You’ll be walking along a road which may have a small amount of local traffic (including a few horse and cart). Pass by the fancy Adler lodge, keep walking for around 15 minutes before you see the mountain hut up the hill on your right. There will be a path pointing up to the 6A route (if you hit the iCaro hotel you’ve gone too far). There’s an incline up to Malga Contrin from here, but you’ll be rewarded with a place to rest once you get to the top.

Be sure to get back to the cable car by 5pm

It’s likely this trip won’t take all day, and the cable car closes at 5pm anyway. With your free time in the afternoon, you have so many options.

You could enjoy an afternoon siesta, you are in Italy after all.

If you’re up for another adventure, consider heading up to Seceda . The other cable car in town will take you up to this spot in the mountains. We didn’t have time to do this any justice, so decided to skip it this time. I’ve read it involves a bit of walking too.

You could explore more of the town of Ortisei and enjoy an aperitivo at one of the many wine bars or cafes . Whilst you’re in town, don’t miss the main church in town. We’ve visited our fair share of churches, but in this small town, this church over represents. High, painted ceilings with amazing frescoes, this church was one of importance in the region. Given there aren’t many people about, you may get to explore this one all to yourself.

Finally, there’s a public swimming pool in Ortisei that opens in the afternoon. Give yourself a break and enjoy a swim.

Day 4: Drive to Cortina via the stunning Lago di Braies

For the next 2 nights of your Dolomites road trip, consider a stay in the little town of Cortina d’Ampezzo . This is quite an upmarket ski town. It’s also the home of the winter Olympics in 2026. In the warmer months is a great base for more sightseeing in the Dolomites.

Departing after breakfast, make your way to the Val di Funes area. This valley has some beautiful churches and towns nestled amongst the mountains. There are some iconic photo opportunities here that don’t involve much walking at all.

The most insta-famous of all photos, and the easiest to get, is of Chiesetta di San Giovanni in Ranui . A tiny church in a green meadow contrasted with the tall mountains above it is a stunning sight. However, the popularity of this church is starting to impact its appeal. When we visited there was a large wooden fence around the property with a small walkway that will lead you to the church. The church is actually shut, and the best photo opportunity is back by the fence.

We’ve subsequently read online that they’ve installed turnstiles and are charging €4 each to visit too. Like many places around the world that are suffering from over-tourism, I can understand the need or desire to protect the property, particularly given it is private land.

From the church it is about 1.5 hours to your next stop, the picture perfect Lago di Braies. 

The unmistakable Lago di Braies

If you thought Lago di Carezza was stunning, wait until you see Lago di Braies! This lake with its emerald green colour sitting perfectly amongst the snow capped mountains and pine trees is one of the most stunning lakes we’ve ever seen.

One of the best things about Lago di Braies is that it is possible to get out onto the water in wooden row boats . Prices for the boats were €25 for one hour and €15 for 30 minutes. If you’re not interested in going for a row, they make amazing photo props!

There’s a path that takes you around the lake and a lot of it is fairly flat. Go as far as you can and make sure you stop by the church on the lakeside.

Lago di Braies is a great spot to spend lunch as well. There is a restaurant on site that serves pasta and other mains for around €15-20. There is also a small snack stand with seating serving items like bratwurst with pommes frittes for €8.

There are paid and free parking lots near Lago di Braies. The free parking is a little further away from the lake, and is the first to fill up. The paid parking had a lot of spots when we visited. It cost €6 for 3 hours, and the first 15 minutes was free too (although I urge you spend more than 15 minutes here!). 

Head to Cortina d’Ampezzo

From Lago di Braies, make your way to Cortina d’Ampezzo. It’s about a one hour scenic drive. Along the way you’ll pass quite a lot of beautiful spots where you’ll likely want to get out of the car for some photos. One of those is Lago di Landro Durrensee. This lake has a gorgeous chalky aqua colour, and it’s right on the side of the road. Turn into the carpark on your left hand side.

Arrive at your accommodation in Cortina d’Ampezzo and spend some time walking around the town. We stayed at Meuble Villa Neve . It was well located within walking distance of the main centre. Parking is also available on the main road. It’s quite an upmarket village with boutique shops and one long pedestrianised road. Seek out a spot for some well deserved drinks and dinner. We enjoyed a pizza and aperol spritz at Pizzeria il Ponte.

Day 5: Head to Tre Cime di Lavaredo

The 3 peaks of Tre Cime di Lavaredo are said to be some of the most recognisable mountains in the Alps. Although perhaps not as recognisable as the Matterhorn, the peaks that shoot up in the air are visually stunning. For today’s itinerary, take a drive out to this park, about 40 minutes from Cortina d’Ampezzo.

The path around Tre Cime di Lavaredo is one of the most popular hiking routes in the Dolomites. It’s a 10km path and from what we’ve read, is a challenging yet do-able hike for those with a medium level of fitness. We decided that this was one of the hikes that we were going to try. Yet, for us it wasn’t to be. The hiking path is at quite an altitude. Higher than any other place we’ve recommended so far in this Dolomites road trip itinerary.

We visited in mid-June and the park had only just opened for the season. However, there was still so much snow on the path. Without the proper hiking equipment (eg. our waterproof shoes at the very least) we had to turn back around after about 30 minutes.

However, our experience has aided us in recommending this for non-hikers.

Bring your Euros

The path lies within a national park, requiring an entry fee (quite hefty at €30 per car). The drive ascends to quite an altitude, where you’ll come across the parking lot. From the car park there’s a fairly flat and easy walk for the first 30 minutes to Rifiguo Lavaredo. This is a great spot to grab some lunch.

Along this flat path you’ll be in the midst of the peaks which rise up on your left hand side. Given you’re so close to the peaks, you won’t see them at their best angle. In my opinion it is still a rewarding experience. But, it’s not as beautiful as other places we’ve recommended in this itinerary. As you’re up so much higher in the Alps there are less green spaces to contrast against the rocky peaks.

Check out another lake – Lago di Misurina

Head back towards Cortina d’Ampezzo and stop off at Lago di Misurina. There’s quite a lot of development along the lake, and it’s a great spot to grab some supplies and go for a short afternoon walk.

Once you’re back at your accommodation, freshen up and get ready for a real evening treat.

It’s your last night on the Dolomites road trip, so we recommend you head out for a lovely dinner. Book ahead for a table at Agriturismo El Brite de Larieto . Located a 10 minute drive outside of town, the deliciousness of the farm to table menu is matched by its stunning location. We’ve to thank the guys from Anywhere We Roam for recommending this restaurant to us.

Day 6: Dolomites road trip comes to an end

Sadly, it’s time for your amazing stay in the Dolomites to come to an end. By now you’ve seen the absolute highlights of the beautiful Dolomites.

If you’re heading back to Verona, the most direct drive will take about 3 hours to complete.

However, if you’ve got the time, consider adding some more places onto your road trip itinerary.

Lake Garda is a short drive from Verona and a wonderful place for a road trip . Once we had completed our Dolomites road trip, we headed to Sirmione for a few relaxing days by the water.

Wherever you decide to go from here, we hope you had an amazing time on your Dolomites road trip.

A few notes on our Dolomites road trip itinerary

In our itinerary we recommend staying in two different locations: Ortisei and Cortina d’Ampezzo. However, if you are short of time or aren’t interested in visiting Tre Cime di Lavaredo, consider staying in Ortisei only.

Driving in the Dolomites can be a challenge at times, mostly due to the amount of cyclists that ride up and down the various mountain passes. Read up on our driving in Italy tips before you head off.

Where to stay on your Dolomites road trip

Ortisei’s Garni Panoramik was a great option. Our room was basic yet comfortable. It came with free parking and was located a short walk into town and even closer to the Alpe di Suisi cable car. Breakfast was included and served in their cosy breakfast room.

Cortina d’Ampezzo’s Meuble Villa Neve was very similar to our accommodation in Ortesei. Nothing overly fancy, but clean and comfortable with a free breakfast. It was literally across the road from the pedestrianised shopping strip and a large grocery store.

And if you do happen to amend our itinerary (we take no offence!) and stay in Trento along the way, the Grand Hotel Trento is exactly that. Filled with old world charm expect gold fixtures in your room, a striped decor and a very European red carpet. It’s an old world delight that is luxury from another era.

When to visit for your Dolomites road trip

The best time to visit the Dolomites for a road trip would be late spring, summer, or early autumn. This way you’ll be blessed with long days and hopefully lots of sunshine and warm weather.

We visited in mid-June and many services were just re-opening for the warmer season. As I mentioned earlier, the higher altitude attractions were still covered in snow. This really does change year to year though. If your plans are flexible, and you want to visit at the start of the season, keep an eye out on the weather.

Like most of Europe, July and August are the peak season for tourism. So if you road tripped the Dolomites during this time expect lots of tourists and higher prices. You’ll need to plan ahead at this time of the year and secure your accommodation and car rental well in advance.

If (when!) I visited the Dolomites again I would try and visit during late June or early September.

If you want to visit outside of these times, you must be prepared. It snows from around December until April. Many services shut down completely, such as the cable cars and restaurants, unless they are servicing the ski fields.

I hope this Dolomites itinerary will help you plan an amazing trip. Have you been? Do you have any other thoughts to add for our road trip itinerary for non-hikers? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below.

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3 Responses

Wow, Great article. Road trips are always amazing and i like the fact how you showed the amazing time you had. Lovely pics. Cheers!!

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Dolomites Road Trip Itinerary

1 week Dolomites Road Trip Itinerary

Tempted by a Dolomites road trip ? If you are in love with mountains and nature, you absolutely must discover this region of Italy. Dominated by peaks, you will find many hiking trails and beautiful lakes. On the way for a driving tour in the Dolomites !

How to come to the Dolomites mountains?

If you live far, we advise you to take the plane to Venice . Most of the time you will find great deals on ticket prices. From the airport, all you have to do is rent your car and let yourself be guided on pretty adventures! Compare the best offers on your plane tickets.

To rent a car for your Dolomites Road Trip, you should also compare and book the best price with the Skyscanner comparator .

Dolomites Travel Guide

The Dolomites are a mountain range located in the north of Italy. During this 1 week Dolomites road trip , we crossed two Italian regions: South Tyrol and Veneto. The culture is special there since this territory formerly belonged to Austria. So don’t be surprised: we speak three languages! The premises are therefore all at least bilingual (Italian and German); the third language is Ladin (Rhaeto-Romanic language), still spoken in some municipalities.

Budget for the Dolomites

The budget of a week for 2 people (indicative according to our mode of travel):

• Accommodation € 600 for an entry-level hotel
• Food 420 € for snack at noon and restaurant in the evening
• Transport 370 € for car rental, toll and gasoline

Total: € 1,390

The budget for a road trip in the Dolomites is relatively high. Count at a minimum of € 70 per night for an entry-level hotel. If you are on a tight budget, prefer camping / bivouac. On the contrary, the restaurants are a little cheaper. There are pizzerias that serve pizzas for € 7.

Itinerary for a road trip in the Dolomites

Dolomites road trip:  1 week itinerary, day 1 : what to do in the dolomites.

Arrived in Venice by plane, we traveled 2 hours to reach Bolzano . It is a large industrial and commercial city in South Tyrol with Germanic influences. The main square is very cute, lined with restaurants with terraces with different colored facades. The hyper-center is pedestrianized , pleasant for strolling. For us, nature lovers, the most important thing is what is around ?

The town is bordered by slopes covered with orchards and vineyards. In addition, Bolzano is only 30 minutes from Lake Carezza, a small masterpiece of nature (we talk about it below).

? Restaurant in Bolzano : we ate at the Italia e Amore restaurant. The concept is original: there is an Italian grocery store on the ground floor which offers quality products, then a specialty per floor (meat, fish, etc.). The roof terrace is very nice. Price: €€

Carezza lake

So we started our Dolomites road trip itinerary  with Lake Carezza , located east of Bolzano. Unfortunately, for this first day, the weather was very bad and the lake was not showing its full potential.

A little practical information: Lake Carezza is accessible directly by car. If you are early enough, you will have free parking with 5 or 6 places available at the edge of the path that goes around the lake. Otherwise, you will have to go to a paid parking lot. The tour of Lake Carezza is done quite quickly so, motivate yourself to discover several angles of view! ⚠️ UPDATE JUNE 2019 : the lake was recently ravaged by a storm … many trees are devastated so don’t be too disappointed if you go.

To find out, we slept the day before in Carezza itself, at the Gasthof Meierei , price: 75 € with very complete breakfast.

Day 2 : Dolomites Road Trip

The hike around the sassolungo summit.

We had planned to take a walk after seeing the lake, but the weather dissuaded us. We drove straight to Sassolungo to sleep near our hike the next day. Our hotel, the Passo Sella Dolomiti Mountain Resort  was superb and comfortable! Its location is ideal if you want to hike in Sassolungo . We recommend that you take the half-board option, so that you can dine at the hotel in the evening. It’s quite isolated, so restaurants around can be scarce. We ate very well (too much) and the view from the restaurant is magnificent. To book, it’s here!

Sassolungo hike: practical information

? Total duration: 4 hours – Course: 12 km

You will need to take the cable car to Passo Sella pass, at the foot of the Sassolungo summit. It is one of the oldest cable cars in the valley. The price of the lift is quite high: € 14 per person. You will only take it for 1 way since the hike makes a loop. You can also climb on foot, which adds an hour of walking.

Once at the top you will have to descend a very steep and slippery slope . Bring good shoes, we did it in sneakers and it was complicated. At the bottom of this descent, you will reach the Toni Demetz refuge at an altitude of 2685 m. The path will then pass between the rocks and the forest. Throughout the hike, the scenery is peaceful.

Finally, you will follow path n ° 526 to reach the starting point.

Please note, this hike is not accessible to everyone ! We are quite athletic and we found the start complicated. Ask the hotel for a trail map so you don’t get lost.

San Giovanni Church

Once the hike was over, we took advantage of the return of the sun to visit the Church of San Giovanni in Santa Maddalena. We had seen this church on Instagram and we absolutely wanted to photograph it too. We love the fact that it is lost in the middle of a field, with a superb view of the snow-capped peaks . Please note, since summer 2019, access to this place is chargeable ( € 4 / person) and drones are strictly prohibited.

To conclude this day, we spent the night at Seehof Nature Retreat (infos & rates here) . The hotel has an exceptional SPA , with its heated outdoor swimming pool and its own lake. The setting is incredible, a true haven of peace. The dinner was good, but the breakfast was the best of our life (many choices with only quality products).

Day 3 : 1 week itinerary in the Dolomites

On leaving the hotel, we visited the Abbey of Novacella . A short walk that allowed us to digest the good breakfast we had just had.

Altitude museum

We then headed to the cable car in Riscone for Mount Plan de Corones . At its top is the MMM Corones museum . The architecture is impressive, because the museum has been integrated into the mountain. If you love art, you will enjoy a visit to this Dolomite themed museum.

Les cascades de Riva

L’après-midi, nous sommes allés voir les cascades de Riva , situées dans le parc naturel Vedrette di Ries-Aurina.  Il y en a trois au total. Le parcours pour les trois cascades dure environ 2h. Nous nous sommes arrêtés à la première cascade car Yann avait mal au genou suite à la randonnée Sassolungo. Le chemin traverse une forêt de pins, c’est magnifique et apaisant. On vous conseille vraiment d’y faire un tour !

Riva waterfalls

In the afternoon, we went to see the Riva waterfalls , located in the Vedrette di Ries-Aurina natural park . There are three in total. The route for the three waterfalls lasts about 2 hours. We stopped at the first waterfall because Yann had knee pain after the Sassolungo hike. The path crosses a pine forest, it is beautiful and soothing. We really advise you to take a look!

At the end of the day, head to the Hotel Leitlhof to enjoy the swimming pool with a beautiful view of the mountains. The dinner was excellent and very filling. Its location is great for visiting Lago di Braies (15 minutes by car). Click here to book.

Day 4 : Dolomites travel guide

Lago di braies, the dolomites diamond.

Wake up at 6 am to go see Lago di Braies , THE place we were waiting for the most. You have inevitably already seen this magnificent lake with its boats and its wooden hut on Instagram.

It is probably the most famous place in the Dolomites. G o there very early , around 7am, so as not to have many people. The only downside to this hour is that the boats are not yet available for hire. As this activity is managed privately, the hours are not fixed: they depend on the goodwill of the owner. You can walk around Lago di Braies in around 1.5 hours (distance: 5 km).

We wanted to go back there in the afternoon to go boating. We quickly turned around when we saw the three parking lots crowded with cars, with hundreds of people flocking to the lake.

How to take pretty pictures at Lago di Braies

The best time is around 7 a.m. (good light and few people) or late afternoon (good light but crowded). Strangely, we find this lake prettier when it is in the shade. From 8:30 am, the sun begins to beat on it and this too much light diminishes the romantic side of the place.

Take an accessory that will dress up your outfit (a hat, a poncho). If you want to push the staging and the Instagrammable potential even more, bring a light garland with you!

Tre Cime di Lavaredo hike

In the afternoon, we had to hike to see the Tre Cime di Lavaredo , three mountain peaks that are side by side. We abandoned the idea for several reasons: Yann still had pain in his knee and the weather was starting to cloud over. The price of access to the hike really ended up discouraging us: paying 30 € for parking for 4 hours is overkill. In fact, the path to the Auronzo Refuge, where the hike starts, is private.

Some information for those who want to do it:

? Total duration: 3 hours – Elevation: around 500m – Distance: 10.6km – Difficulty: accessible to all – Parking price: € 30

  Voir cette publication sur Instagram   Une publication partagée par LOWA Official – Outdoor Boots (@lowa.outdoor) le 8 Juin 2018 à 10 :05 PDT

Instead, we stopped at a lake of an incredible green color: the lago di Landro . Then we went to lago di Misurina (less beautiful) to eat our sandwiches and sunbathe by the water.

  Voir cette publication sur Instagram   Une publication partagée par Yann ♡ Aurélie – Blog Voyage (@amoureuxdumonde) le 18 Juin 2018 à 3 :22 PDT

Where to sleep in Cortina d’Ampezzo?

At Hotel Cristallino d’Ampezzo. Price: 90 € per night – dated establishment so the price is high for what it is. Breakfast not great. See on Booking.com

Where to eat in Cortina d’Ampezzo?

Pizzeria “ Al Passetto ” – very good pizzas – 25 € for 2 drinks and 2 pizzas.

Day 5 : Dolomites road map

Lago di sorapis hike.

The Lago di Sorapis and its extraordinary color is our second favorite of the Dolomites. It is the most beautiful lake that we have seen in our life. We really insist on its color which seems unreal. Lago di Sorapis is of glacial origin and is located at an altitude of 1936m.

We recommend that you start around 8 a.m . One, you will be less hot. Second, you won’t be bothered by the world. We came back down from the lake around 11am and we passed dozens and dozens of people going up. This place is very busy in the afternoons and especially on weekends.

Practical information about the hike:

? Duration: 4h – Distance: 13 km – Elevation: 600m

? Difficulty: no major difficulty, except the last climb which is a bit rough. For those who have vertigo: there is a small passage near the void but there is a rope to hold onto.

Day 6 : Last day of your Italy vacation

On the way back down to Venice, we took advantage of our last day to make a detour to Verona . We loved walking around this city! The alleys are very pretty, the city has a crazy charm.

After discovering old Verona, we went up (by car) to Castel San Pietro to admire a panoramic view of the city.

The famous balcony of Juliet Capulet of Romeo & Juliet

We hope you enjoy your Dolomites road trip as much as we do! If you have any questions, we are happy to answer them in comments!

For another great itinerary: here is our Puglia Road Trip in the south of Italy ??

Further Reading...

Where to eat in Lisbon?

Road Trip in South Corsica : 1 week Itinerary

Road trip in Brittany : stay in Finistère

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Road trip in Puglia: what to do?

What to do in rovaniemi the activities.

Article mis à jour le 17 November 2021 par Amoureux du Monde

Dolomites Road Trip: Explore the Best of Northern Italy

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Ultimate One Week Dolomites Itinerary

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Dolomites in Northern Italy are a wonder of impossibly jagged mountains, vertical rock walls and deep valleys that carve their way through the ancient landscape.

From snow sports in winter to hiking and cycling in summer, the Dolomites are an activity playground, intersected by dramatic mountain passes, vast wildflower meadows, and crystal-clear turquoise lakes.

We spent a month exploring the Dolomites and in this road trip planner, we share our seven day Dolomites itinerary, travel tips, things to do and see along the way, and hotel recommendations to help you plan your perfect Dolomites road trip.

Where Are the Dolomites?

The  Dolomites  (Italian:  Dolomiti ; Ladin:  Dolomites ; German:  Dolomiten ) also known as the  Dolomite Mountains ,  Dolomite Alps,  or  Dolomitic Alps , are a mountain range in northeastern Italy, straddling the regions of Veneto, Trentino-Alto Adige or Südtirol and Friuli Venezia Giulia.

The Dolomites form part of the Southern Limestone Alps and extend from the River Adige in the west to the Piave Valley or Pieve di Cadore in the east. The northern and southern borders are defined by the Puster Valley and the Sugana Valley or Valsugana .

The Dolomites are notable for their distinctive Italian-Austrian-German heritage and the valleys of Fassa in Trentino, and Livinallongo and Ampezzo in the Province of Belluno, are home to the Ladins , an ethnic group collectively known as Ladinia.

The native language of the region is Ladin, and you’ll see most road signs actually have three languages; Ladin, Italian, and German!

Is this your first time visiting Italy? Get all the information you need in our Italy Travel Guide , including what to pack, the best time of year to go, getting there, and practical tips to help you have the best trip!

Getting to the Dolomites

Whether you’re taking a road trip to the Dolomites by car, motorcycle, or campervan, self-driving is absolutely the best way to explore this spectacular region of Italy.

Our seven day road trip itinerary shares all the highlights and top spots, but is flexible enough for you can stop whenever you want, try new activities, visit places you see along the route, and have the freedom to change plans at the last minute.

Fly into Venice Marco Polo Airport or Malpensa International Airport in Milan , a three or four hour drive away respectively from Bolzano, the gateway to the Dolomites. With direct flights from America, Europe, and the UK , we recommend booking through Skyscanner for live deals and the best prices.

Are you planning to rent a car in Italy? As one of the largest car hire aggregator companies in the world, we recommend Rentalcars.com because they have massive purchasing power which enables them to secure the best car rental prices, which benefits you when you’re planning a road trip. Be aware that you may need an International Driving Permit to hire a car in Italy.

For a real adventure, hire a motorhome or campervan in Italy. We recommend Motorhome Republic , an aggregate booking site who pull together all the best deals from a number of rental agencies, to offer you a wide choice of options alongside an excellent English speaking expert motorhome Concierge Team.

Driving in Italy

Lots of people will tell you that renting a car in Italy is madness, that driving through Italy is dangerous and the roads and other drivers are a nightmare – and some of it would be true!

But don’t let your fears about driving in Italy put you off taking a road trip through the Dolomites. Take your time as you drive and be prepared for the differences in driving styles from back home. Follow our tips about renting a car and driving in Italy to stay safe and stress-free!

Make sure you have travel insurance you can trust when visiting Italy . We recommend True Traveller for their 5-star TrustPilot reviews, variety of cover options, best activities cover as standard, great prices, and excellent service.

Best Time to Road Trip the Dolomites

The Dolomites can only really be road tripped in the summer months when all the mountain passes are fully open and there is no threat of snow to close the roads.

The whole of the Great Dolomites Road , one of the main routes through the mountains, is only fully open from Bolzano to Cortina d’Ampezzo between  early June  and  mid-September .

Keep an eye on the weather if you’re planning to drive the route in early June or early September , as the skies can change rapidly and be unpredictable in the mountains during the shoulder seasons.

Even in the summer months, the mountain weather can be changeable. Expect gloriously sunny mornings and possible stormy showers in the late afternoon. Temperatures rarely top 25°C / 77°F, with the August average being 17°C / 63°F, perfect for being active.

Dolomites Road Trip Map & Route

We followed this route through the Dolomites, admiring the mirror lakes, alpine meadows and soaring peaks as we drove. Stopping usually involved delicious local foods and the odd glass of Italian wine or beer to wash it all down!

Our route hits all the highlights of this stunning mountain range, and a few lesser known places too. From the small mountain towns typical of the region, to activites like hiking and biking and the fantastic network of cable cars, we fell in love with the Dolomites, and hope you will too!

• Get the Essentials
• Reusable Water Bottle: We love our LifeStraw Go 2 personal water filter bottles, knowing we can top up anywhere and anytime.
• Hiking Rucksack: We both carry Osprey hiking rucksacks , which are designed for the different needs of men and women, making them comfortable to wear and practical to use.
• Hiking Shoes: Phil wears his trusty Meindl Respond GTX low rise hiking shoes and Izzy swears by her Salewa Wildfire Edge approach shoes .
• Hiking Poles: – Phil’s a mountain goat so doesn’t use poles, but Izzy has zero balance and loves her Leki Spin telescopic trekking poles !
• Flask: If you watch us on YouTube , you’ll know we love a cup of tea, especially mid-way through a hike! We’ve used our Lifeventure vacuum flask for years
• Get the Travel Guides
• Lonely Planet Italy
• DK Eyewitness Road Trips Northern & Central Italy
• The Rough Guide to Italy
• Get the Itinerary

Bolzano – Canazei – Cortina d’Ampezzo – Carbonin Schluderbach

• Distance 88m / 142km
• Duration 7 days
• Drive Time 5-6 hours

Thanks to Google Maps

7 Day Dolomites Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1: bolzano.

Considered a bridge between northern and southern Europe and known as the gateway to the Dolomites, Bolzano or Bozen in German, is a city in the Trentino-Alto Adige region of northern Italy that has a rich history and a unique blend of Italian and German-Austrian culture.

Bolzano has been an essential location for trade and movement across the Alps for centuries, and its strategic position is evident in its architecture. One of the city’s most impressive landmarks is Runkelstein Castle, which dates back to the 13th century and is a testament to Bolzano’s strategic importance.

Visitors to Bolzano can explore the city’s 12th century architecture by walking along the Via dei Portici, a beautiful street lined with arches and colorful buildings. The Piazza delle Erbe is another must-see destination, with its vibrant market and historic buildings.

Bolzano is also home to the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology, which houses the famous mummy of Ötzi, the iceman who lived over 5,000 years ago between 3350 and 3105 BCE. Ötzi was discovered in 1991 in the Ötztal Alps at the border between  Austria  and  Italy and is Europe’s oldest known natural human mummy, offering an unprecedented view of Chalcolithic or Copper Age Europeans.

In addition to its history and architecture, Bolzano is surrounded by vineyards and fruit and vegetable farms, and visitors can sample the local cuisine at one of the many restaurants and cafés. Think creamy alpine cheeses, local buckwheat pasta called mezzelune, and Speck Alto Adige , the region’s delicious smoked ham.

• Where to Stay in Bolzano

Upmarket: Castel Hörtenberg – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Hotel Magdalener Hof – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: B&B Hotel Bolzano – Booking.com | Agoda

Looking for the best SIM card deals in Europe for your trip? Check out our guide to the best data SIMs in Europe and get the best deal for your trip to Italy.

Day 2: Bolzano to Canazei

Pick up the SS 241 heading southeast from Bolzano and be prepared to be blown away!

After a series of tunnels and balconies, you’ll emerge into the Dolomites proper. The first of the pale mountains to come into sight is the Latemar massif and the distinctive Torre di Pisa , both of which make it hard to believe that the Dolomites were once a calm and shallow sea!

As you twist and turn on the road, the mighty Catinaccio rises to take your breath away. Also known as the Rosengarten group in German, this massif is a particular shade of pink owing to the presence of the mineral dolomite, which absorbs the sunset and glows pink in the evening light.

The name, which means ‘rose garden’ in German, refers to the legend of King Laurin and his rose garden, a traditional story that explains the colorful appearance of the mountain range.

After a series of tight turns along the Val d’Ega, you’ll pass Lago di Carezza , a small but beautiful lake that is impossibly emerald in color. The crystal clear waters which reflect the sunlight give rise to the name ‘Lake of the Rainbow’, but there is also a legend of mermaids, magicians, and wizards attached to the pool.

Carezza Lake has no tributaries but is fed by an underground spring bringing water from the peaks of Latemar. A circular path encloses the small lake, taking around 20 minutes to walk from the large parking lot on the opposite side of the road.

Soon after, you’ll pick up the SS 48 in Vigo di Fassa . The road follows the Val di Fassa through Possi di Fassa to Canezei , sandwiched between Catinaccio to the west and Marmolada to the east. The Dolomite’s highest peak at 10,965ft / 3,342m above sea level, Marmolada is unsurprisingly known as the ‘Queen of the Dolomites’.

You’re now surrounded by dramatic sheer peaks topped by sharp and craggy rock formations, which sit amongst verdant green meadows sloping down to the bubbling River Avisio, which is followed by the Great Dolomites Road.

In front of you as you drive is a real feast for the eyes; the huge Sella massif , topped by Piz Boè at 10,338ft / 3,151m and slightly to the left is Sassalungo , or ‘long rock’ the highest peak of the Langkofel group .

You’ll arrive in Canazei with enough time to explore the lively town before checking into your hotel and planning the next few days.

• Where to Stay in Canazei

Upmarket: Locanda degli Artisti Art Hotel – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Hotel Dolomiti Schloss – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Chalet Margoni – Booking.com | Agoda

Day 3: Canazei Hiking and Biking

Canazei is the central hub of the Val di Fassa and the perfect place to stop and explore for a few days. Surrounded by so many mountains it can be hard to make a choice about where to go and what to do!

There are lots of cable cars, gondolas, and chairlifts, many of which run in the summer to take hikers and mountain bikers high into the mountains. The network, run by Val di Fassa Lift is extensive and you can take one lift up, hike, or bike to another lift and head down. This means many of the Dolomites hikes have minimal elevation gain, so you can take a hike whatever your level of fitness.

The gondola from Campitello di Fassa to Col Rodella is a great option if you want a taste. With a traditional refugio bar and restaurant at the top and magnificent views of Sassalungo and the Sella group, you can take a gentle walk, a demanding hike, or pick up another cable car across the valley.

There are also bike and electric bike hire outlets, meaning you can cycle the riverside path, the 30 mile / 49km Pista Ciclopedonale , between Canazei and Molina di Fiemme . From Canazei, it’s downhill and there is an 800m elevation gain on the return. Take e-bikes and you’ll be able to do the return ride in a day and not even notice the hills!

After all that exercise we highly recommend visiting  Dolaondes , ideal for swimming, pampering, and relaxing.

From there, head into town to one of the many bars and restaurants where you can grab a pizza, or try local dishes. We recommend Osteria La Montanara, a  Tripadvisor Travelers Choice  serving local food, wine, and beer.

Day 4: Canazei & Sella Ring

The famous ski loop around the Sella Group in winter known as the Sellaronda becomes the Sella Ring in summer, an incredible loop of four paved mountain passes, which you can easily drive in a day.

The Passo Pordoi , Passo Campolongo , Passo Gardena , and Passo Sella are each different but no less spectacular. Along the route there are plenty of places to stop and enjoy a bite to eat, lots of cable cars for a quick trip higher into the mountains, and plenty to see.

Passo Pordoi

The impressive Pordoi Pass tops out at 7,346ft / 2,239m and is one of two passes on the Great Dolomites Road , the other being the Passo Falzarego, which you’ll be driving in a few days.

As you leave Canazei, you’ll start climbing quickly to a fork in the road. The left fork takes you to the Sella Pass, which you’ll also be driving later today. For now, you’ll be taking the right fork to the Passo Pordoi.

A feat of engineering with 33 tornante , or hairpin bends, the road snakes its way through alpine meadows filled with wildflowers and the ever-present towering Dolomite peaks.

Beloved by cyclists and bikers, the Pordoi Pass is usually busy in summer, and the actual pass itself, between the Sella massif and Sass Becé , is lined with shops, car parks, and cafés, and the Sass Pordoi cable car station.

We highly recommend stopping here and taking the Pordoi cableway to the Terrace of the Dolomites on Sass Pordoi, at 9,642ft / 2,939m. The cable car is a technical masterpiece balanced on the edge of a large lump of rock and the five minute journey there is breathtaking in itself, but when you arrive at the top prepare to be even more impressed!

Well above the tree line, the vast lunar-like landscape stretches for over 2.5 miles / 4km to the north and 1.9 miles / 3km to the west. It really does feel like you’re on the moon, with rocky craters and long gorges deep into the massif.

From the cable car station, it’s a fairly challenging hike to Piz Boè with some via Ferrata elements such as steps and rungs to assist you. If you don’t have the four hours or so you’ll need, it’s interesting to wander around the area in the vicinity of Sass Pordoi and enjoy the glorious views.

On the return, you should pop into the Dolomiti Museum 1915-1918 which chronicles the Great War in the Dolomites and the battles on Col di Lana and Marmolada. A little further along the road is the Germanic Memorial of Passo Pordoi built in 1959 to commemorate German-Austrian war dead from both WWI and WWII.

Once you start on the descent from the Pordoi Pass, the landscape softens a little and the road seems blissfully quieter.

Passo Campolongo

The gentlest of today’s mountain passes, the Campolongo Pass is reached by taking the SP 244 from Arabba . Reaching and elevation of 6,151ft / 1,875m, the pass is more of a steady rise than a switchback road.

An area of idyllic gentle slopes and moderate gradients, you can hike or take a cable car higher into the mountains and Cherz’s Plateau for panoramic views of Monte Pelmo and Marmolada and Piz dles Cunturines , or the strange coral-like structures of Bec de Roces .

The views as you come down from Passo Campolongo to Corvara in Badia Kurfar are some of the best along the loop, with Sassongher in the Puez Group to the north and the Sella Group to the west.

Passo Gardena

Our favourite of these four passes, the Gardena Pass (the SS 243 as you leave Corvara) dips and swoops its way between the Sella massif and Pizes de Cir , with sheer rock walls, grassy meadows, and epic views as your companion along the way.

Connecting Sëlva in the Val Gardena on the west side with Corvara in the Val Badia on the east, the landscape changes as you pass through gently rolling topography to unforgiving cliffs and stony riverbeds.

Rising to 7,008ft / 2,136m above sea level and encompassing 17 hairpin bends, this pass is a truly breathtaking drive.

There are lots of stopping places for photos and many hiking opportunities – either on foot from the road or by utilizing the seven different cable car stations along the route.

One of our favorite hikes is to the Seceda Ridgeline , a Dolomites icon, which you can access from the Ortisei-Furnes cable car in Ortisei . You can make the Seceda hike anything from 6 miles / 9km to less than a mile, depending on which cable car you take.

Stop for lunch at Hotel Chalet Gerard , where you can enjoy local mountain dishes on the terrace with the most incredible view!

Val di Funes Side Trip

One of the most photographed valleys in the Dolomites, Val di Funes sits in the shadow of the mighty Puez-Odle massif and offers a surprisingly slower pace and maybe a more authentic experience than busier parts of the wider Dolomites.

This side trip is easy from the Passo Gardena section of the Sella Ring, with the drive to Val di Funes taking around an hour. If you have an extra day, why not stay in one of the valley’s pretty villages and complete the Sella Ring the next day?

Must-sees include the Insta-worthy Baroque Santa Maddalena Church, also known as the Church of St. Magdalena and the onion-domed Church of St Johann in Ranui, also known as San Giovanni Church. Both of these iconic churches are gloriously positioned, with towering peaks and lush meadows just adding to the gorgeousness!

From a hiking perspective, check out the Panoramaweg and Sunnseitenweg trails which overlook the valley as they meander through the rural landscape. The easy and well signed 7km circular route from Santa Maddalena village will take you a couple of hours, with lots of interest along the way.

Passo Sella

The daddy of this quartet of passes, the Sella Pass , located on a grassy saddle that separates Sassolungo from the Sella Group, hits an impressive 7,369ft / 2,246m of altitude. The pass connects Plan De Gralba with Canazei as it skirts along the edge of Alpe di Siusi , the largest alpine meadow in Europe.

One of the Dolomite’s most famous passes with a whopping 32 hairpin bends, some sections of the SS 242 road have a 12.1% gradient making this a fabulous drive, with fantastic views of the nearby Sassolungo Group and its distinctive towers of rock. Because of its close proximity to this mountain group, the Sella Pass makes the perfect jumping-off spot to explore the area.

Make a stop at  Cittá Dei Sassi just before the pass, where there are countless boulders of all shapes and sizes which are great fun for climbing and bouldering. There are plenty of hikes from here, or you can pick up the cable car from the Sasso Pass to the Rifugio Toni Demetz hut at 8,858ft / 2,700m and start your hike from there.

Other Italian Road Trips

The Ultimate Bucket List Italy Road Trip

A Bucket List Amalfi Coast Road Trip

Puglia Road Trip: The Best 7 Day Itinerary + Map & Tips

Tuscan Road Trip: Itinerary, Map & Tips

Sicily Road Trip – Itinerary, Tips & Map

Northern Italy Road Trip: Itinerary, Map & Tips

Great Dolomites Road: Absolutely Everything You Need to Know!

Stelvio Pass: The Best Mountain Road in Italy?

Day 5: canazei to cortina d’ampezzo.

From Canazei, you’ll be revisiting the Passo Pordoi as you head east.

From Arabba, the road traverses rather than climbs the mountains, and skirts around the Col di Lana before heading north to the Falzarego Pass . At the small hamlet of Cernadoi , the road takes a sharp lefthand hairpin to stay on the SR 48 or continues on for the SR 203 south.

As you drive past the hamlet, you’ll note the 10.4ft / 3.2m height restriction sign which refers to the rock-cut tunnel just before the pass. Most motorhomes will have no problem, but larger overland trucks might !

Much of the road is tree-lined and the views are not as impressive as from the Pordoi Pass, but once you’re out of the tree line there is plenty to see, including Sass de Stria , which in Ladin means ‘Rock of the Witch’, after the legend of the witch who lived at the summit.

After the first series of hairpins, make a stop at Castello di Andraz , a medieval castle strategically built on a large boulder in a dominant position over the valley, allowing control of all routes across the Falzarego saddle.

The castle has a chequered history of battles, ruin, and renovation and you can find out about this, and local cultural heritage linked to the Ladin area of ​​the Upper Agordino in the Castle museum.

Back on the road and several more switchbacks takes you to a long balcony and then the tunnel before you reach the pass. Like most passes of the Dolomites, there is a place to park, somewhere to eat, and a shop in which to buy Italian souvenirs.

There is also the Lagazuoi mountain cable car, which takes you to Rifugio Lagazuoi and La Sauna En, the highest Finnish sauna in the Dolomites at 9,062ft / 2,762m!

If you prefer something a bit more challenging, the Lagazuoi Tunnels hike also starts from the pass. Constructed by the Italians during WWI, the 0.6 miles / 1km Lagazuoi tunnel is a fully restored via Ferrata . The route from the pass to the cable car station is around 3 miles / 5km and will take around 4 hours, with 673m of elevation gain.

From the Falzarego Pass continue east along the SR 48. You’ll have fantastic views of the very distinctive Cinque Torri , a small group of actually more than five towers that lies on the south slopes of Falzarego Pass and is part of the larger Averau-Nuvolau group .

There is an easy 1.25 mile / 2km hike up to Cinque Torri which will take you a couple of hours, or you can take the Seggiovia Cinque Torri cable car which will get you there in a few minutes!

From here, there are a few more tight turns and then the road evens out until the village of Pocal , where there are a few last twisting bends before you arrive in Cortina d’Ampezzo.

• Where to Stay in Cortina d’Ampezzo

Upmarket: Rosapetra Spa Resort – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Franceschi Park Hotel – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Hotel Des Alpes – Booking.com | Agoda

Want to plan your own road tri p? Get our step-by-step road trip planning guide to help you organize the perfect trip, or check out our Europe road trip ideas .

Day 6: Cortina d’Ampezzo

The host town of the Winter Olympic Games Milano Cortina 2026 , Cortina is a charming town known for its unique blend of Alpine and Italian cultures and a fantastic base to visit the mountains of the Ampezzo Dolomites .

Located in the center of the Ampezzo Valley, at the top of the Valle del Boite, Cortina straddles the River Boite. The town is ringed by soaring craggy mountains, including Tofane  to the west,  Pomagagnon  to the north,  Cristallo  to the northeast,  Faloria  and  Sorapiss  to the east, and  Becco di Mezzodì ,  Croda da Lago  and Cinque Torri to the south. 

Monte Antelao , at 10,709ft / 3,264m, is the highest mountain in the Ampezzo Dolomites and the second highest in the Dolomites. 

Cortina has some of the best day hikes in the Dolomites, with different levels of difficulty to suit everyone. What they all have in common are fabulous views.

The 3 mile / 5km linear hike from Cortina to Lake Pianozes is a beauty. With minimal elevation, but stunning views and a mirror alpine lake at the end, this 2-3 hour easy hike packs a real punch!

If you like more of a challenge, there is a fantastic  via Ferrata to Cascate di Fanes . Italian for ‘iron path’, via Ferrata are climbing routes that utilize steel cables, rungs, and ladders that are fixed to the rock. Climbers affix a harness that allows them to secure themselves to the metal fixture and limit any fall.

The via Ferrata to Fanes Waterfalls is suitable for everyone, including beginners and families, and equipment like harnesses and helmets can be rented from Snowservice  or  Rock and Ice  in Cortina.

If hiking isn’t your thing but you still want to enjoy stunning views, take the Tofana-Freccia nel Cielo series of cable cars to  Cima Tofana at 10,577ft / 3,244m and visit the Helmut Ullrich Astronomical Observatory at Col Drusciè on the way.

Day 7: Cortina d’Ampezzo to Carbonin Schluderbach

Just 25 miles northeast of Cortina on the SS 51, Carbonin Schluderbach is an idyllic village that was once a timber trading center and home to the Beim Schluderbacher Inn, an important base of Dolomite alpinism.

Local residents brought visitors to Tre Cime de Lavaredo , and Anna Ploner, the innkeeper’s daughter, was the first woman to reach the summit of Cima Grande in 1874.

Surrounded by natural highlights, it’s easy to enjoy the landscape. From the small hamlet, you can hike or take a ten minute drive along Valle Popena to beautiful Lake Misurina for a peaceful swim, or head in the opposite direction for the Prato Piazza , one of the most beautiful high mountain pasture landscapes in the Dolomites.

You can also drive up to Rifugio Auronzo under the shadow of Forcella Lavaredo and take the 15 minute walk to Cappella degli Alpini, a tiny but much photographed chapel. If that’s not far enough, head up to Rifugio Malga Langalm and Lake Rienzquelle on the 6.4 mile / 10.3km Tre Cime di Lavaredo loop.

The route up to Rifugio Auronzo and the parking lot lies in the Tre Cime di Lavaredo National Park , meaning you need to pay an entry fee of €30 (2023) for yourselves and your vehicle.

• Where to Stay in Carbonin Schluderbach

Upmarket: Hotel Soropiss Misurina – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Albergo Chalet Lago Antorno Misurina – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Villaggio Turistico Ploner – Booking.com | Agoda

Italy Road Trip Resources

Here are the websites and services we personally use and recommend for traveling in Italy.

• Search for affordable flights to Italy with Skyscanner
• Search for availability and book hotels and accommodation in Italy with Booking.com
• Find and book the best campsites in Italy with Eurocampings
• Book the cheapest and most reliable car rentals in Italy with Rentalcars.com
• Find and hire your perfect motorhome or campervan with Motorhome Republic
• Get highly rated, reliable, and trustworthy travel insurance with True Traveller
• Check if you need a visa and arrange your documents with Visagov

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