3 day dolomites tour

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.

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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!

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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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Travel, Hiking, Food

3 Days in the Dolomites: The Best Dolomites Summer Itinerary

Only have 3 days in the Dolomites? This 3 day Dolomites itinerary shows you the best places in the Dolomites.

The Dolomites is one of the most beautiful places in Italy that many people have never heard of. Indeed the turquoise and emerald lakes and pale peaks do not scream typical Italy if your impression of Italy is ancient ruins or coastal towns.

The unique geological formation of the Dolomites is characterized by towering peaks, dramatic rock formations, and breathtaking valleys. The stunning landscape of the Dolomites has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Dolomites offers endless opportunities for hiking, climbing, and other outdoor activities in the summer and many people even take their kids to the Dolomites to enjoy the scenery and easy hikes.

Having three days to explore the Dolomites is a great way to experience the beauty and adventure of this incredible region. Even just 3 days in the Dolomites can take your breath away and show you the diverse beauty Italy has.

This blog contains occasional affiliate links, where I receive a small commission on sales of the products/hotels that are linked at no additional cost to you. In addition, as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases .

Where is the Dolomites

Located in northeastern Italy near the Austrian border, the Dolomites is a large mountain range that form part of the Alps.

The Dolomites is a large area divided by 3 regions: South Tyrol, Trentino and Belluno . The Dolomites actually mean “Pale Mountains”; the name derives from the appears of the peaks made of carbonate rock dolomite.

Historically the Dolomites were part of Austria. The mountain range ran through the Austro-Hungarian and Italian border during World War I.

Both sides used mines during the war, which resulted in the creation of Via Ferrata , protected path along the cliffs above the mines. Via Ferrata now has become a tourist attraction and is one of the most popular things to do in the Dolomites

Nowadays the Dolomites belongs exclusively to Italy. This is the reason why the names in Dolomites are in both Italian and German and the food in the Dolomites have heavy Austrian influence.

When I was in the Dolomites I saw a lot of German speaking visitors and the hotel and restaurant staff all speak German, Italian and some English. Sometimes it made me wonder if I was actually in Italy!

How to Reach The Dolomites

The Dolomites is a lot easier to get to than you think! The closest airport is Venice or Innsbruck . I personally recommend that you fly into Venice if you plan to end your trip in Italy because it’s expensive to rent a car in one country and return it in a different country. We used Discover Cars and it was better to rent and return the car in Italy.

From Venice it’s about a two hour drive to the Dolomites (but depends on where in the Dolomites you are going) and it’s about 2.5-3 hours drive from Innsbruck. The road from Venice to the Dolomites was pretty easy to drive on compare to what you will experience later when you drive between towns in the Dolomites.

Do I need a car in the Dolomites?

Although during peak summer months there are buses in the Dolomites and trains to major towns of the Dolomites, it’s definitely the easiest to have a car in the Dolomites.

The Dolomites is a large region with a lot to see and do. Although there are buses to major sights like Lago di Braies and Tre Cime, the buses are not always frequent (or as frequent as you’d like) and you often need to transfer to reach your final destination.

For example, one of my friends took a bus to Lago di Braies, it took her two hours to get there and she had to spend 6.5 hours there to wait for the bus to go back. So yes it’s do-able to take the bus, but it’s not the most convenient if you want to see multiple things in one day.

Renting a car is easy in the Dolomites and car rental agencies such as Discover Cars is one of the most popular and reliable car rental options. You can rent the car from the Venice Airport to start your 3 days in Dolomite adventure.

Driving in the Dolomites – What You Should Know

Driving is more convenient in the Dolomites but the roads are not always the easiest to drive on. Oftentimes you have to drive on very windy and narrow roads with crazy aggressive locals drivers tailgating you, which can be annoying and stressful.

Some roads are only wide enough for 1 car so you need to be prepared to yield or even back up. I personally found driving in the Dolomites a bit stressful but still manageable.

Before I went to the Dolomites, I read online that Italian car rental agencies require an International Driving permit , which you can easily get from AAA if you are based in the US. However nobody asked me for it when I was there but just something to keep in mind in case they ask.

It is likely that you will get a diesel car if you are renting an automatic car. I never had this issue before but our diesel car ended up having a dashboard light that said “ DEF low , refill soon”.

Coming from the US, I had no idea what that meant! Basically you just go to any gas station and tell them you need the fluid, which goes into the DEF/AdBlue tank next to gas (see photo below).

Another thing you should be aware of while driving in the Dolomites is that everything takes longer than you think. We relied on both Google Maps and our car’s GPS (Google Maps was more accurate) and there were random road closures and detours we had to take.

Sometimes the junctions can get quite confusing and you may end up driving on the highway in the opposite direction for 20 minutes before you can get off and get back on the highway to go to the other direction.

There were also a number of car accidents on the highway since people drive so aggressively so on average I would add 30 min to an hour to your planned commute time.

Areas of The Dolomites

As mentioned earlier, there are 3 provinces in the Dolomites. For this 3 day Dolomites itinerary I will only focus on the province of South Tyrol (Sudtyrol in German). Within South Tyrol, this itinerary focuses on 3 areas, Val Gardena, Val di Funes and Sexten Dolomites .

The reason I focused on these three distinct areas is because they offer some of the best places to visit and hike in the Dolomites.

The Sexten Dolomites near Misurina has the famous Tre Cime (Drei Zinnen in German; three peaks in English) hike and it’s also close to the legendary Lago di Braies (Pragser Wildsee in German). It is more on the eastern side of the Dolomites region.

Val Gardena and Val di Funes are more west of the Misurina area (~2-3 hour drive). Val Gardena is where the town of Ortisei (Urtijëi in German) is located, as well as the famous Seceda and Alpe di Siusi.

Going slightly north from Val Gardena is Val di Funes (Villnöß in German); it is where the village of Santa Magdalena and Puez-Odle Nature Park are located.

These names may mean nothing to you, but just keep them at the back of your mind. After you read through the itinerary they will make sense to you.

Best Time to Visit the Dolomites

The Dolomites is popular to visit all year round depending on what you want to do.

Skiing and snow sports are popular in the winter . The Dolomites have numerous ski slopes and the towns and ski resorts all turn into winter wonderland. Some of the fancy ski resorts can cost up to $800 a night like the Adler Lodge in Alpe di Siusi/ Seiser Alm. Many Europeans go to northern Italy for weeks to enjoy their winter holiday. Sometimes roads are closed or blocked due to snowstorms so definitely do your research before you go.

If you are interested in outdoor activities such as hiking then you should consider visiting the Dolomites from May to early October when the weather is pleasant and when there’s no more snow on the trails. Most cable cars also have different hours of operation during the summer peak months so be sure to check the cable car websites when you plan your trip.

If you are expecting perfect summer days in the Dolomites then you probably will be disappointed. Summer in the Dolomites is one of the wettest times . I had friends telling me when they went to the Dolomites in the summer it rained the entire week they were there.

I visited the Dolomites in mid September and got totally lucky with perfect summer days the entire time I was there. However it did rain 5 days before I visited and it rained for a week after I left.

When I was visiting the Dolomites in mid September the temperature varied a lot during the day. It was cold in the morning and at night (~40s-50sF/ 10C) and it got super hot under the sun during the day (~85F/ 28C). See below for an annual temperature chart and monthly precipitation.

Keep in mind that summer is one of the busiest times in the Dolomites, especially on the weekend. Cable cars, lakes and hiking trails get crowded early in the morning so set your expectation to avoid disappointment.

Travel Insurance for the Dolomites

I always recommend getting travel insurance before any trip as you never know what could happen (hiking injuries, theft, flight delays, lost baggages, etc) and you don’t want to end up paying for everything out of pocket.

I have been using World Nomads and Safety Wing when I travel. We had a terrible experience during our honeymoon in New Zealand without insurance so after that I’ve learned to always get travel insurance before my trips, especially hiking trips! Safety Wing covers multiple countries under one trip so you just need one policy. They also have some Covid related coverage so they are worth checking out.

World Nomads provides travel insurance for travellers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

3 Days in the Dolomites Itinerary

3 Days in the Dolomites is not a lot of time but it will give you the opportunity to visit the most beautiful places in the Dolomites. There are some hiking involved but the trails in this Dolomites itinerary are pretty tame/ easy so the whole family can enjoy.

Day 0 : Arrive in Venice Day 1 : Tre Cime di Lavaredo & Cadini Peaks Day 2 : Lago di Braies & Santa Magdalena Village & Lago di Carezza Day 3: Seceda & Alpe di Siusi/ Seiser Alm

This 3 days in Dolomites itinerary requires you to visit in the summer/early fall assuming roads are closed during the winter. In addition you absolutely need a car to do this itinerary as it covers a large area in South Tyrol and buses can’t get you to these places in a reasonable amount of time.

Day 0 – Arrival in Venice

After you land in Venice, pick up your rental car at the airport. The rental car building is a building outside of the terminal of the Venice airport.

If you land in Venice early enough and you are not too tired from the flight, I suggest you start driving to the Dolomites since it’s only 2 hours away. However if you landed at night or are simply too tired, you should book a hotel near the airport to crash.

I stayed at the Best Western near the Venice airport and it was sufficient for the night. They also have breakfast (at an additional cost).

Day 1 of 3 Days in the Dolomites – Tre Cime di Lavaredo & Cadini Peaks

Tre Cime (Drei Zinnen) is known as the Three Peaks and it is a group of mountain peaks famous for their distinct tower shapes. Up until 1919 the Three Peaks were on the border of Italy and Austria but now they are Italian.

You can hike around the Three Peaks to fully appreciate their glory from all angles. The hikes around the peaks are easy (if you do the day hike) and this is why the Tre Cime di Lavaredo hike is perhaps the most popular and crowded hike in the Dolomites.

If you want to do the day hike to Tre Cime, there is a 3.5 – 4 hour loop hike that let you go around the peaks. There are 3 huts (Rifugios) along the way. After the third and the most famous Rifugio (it’s white and red in appearance), you can follow the sign for path 105 and go around the peaks to complete the loop.

Alternatively, you can hike as much as you like on the route as the path to the second Rifugio is very flat, suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. Many people either hike to the view point (the hill after second Rifugio) or to the third Rifugio (the one with the best view) before heading back the same way.

I did hear from my friends that the loop is narrow and rocky and if you are scared of heights you shouldn’t do it since you already saw the best view at the view point and at the third Rifugio (Rifugio Locatelli).

Logistics of Hiking Tre Cime di Lavaredo

There is a massive parking lot at Rifugio Auronzo (Rifugio No.1). Parking is €30 cash only (it may be more when you visit since I went a while ago). If you go after 10am you run the risk of the park lot being full then you need to park down the hill and hitch hack back up to the Rifugio.

We went at 10am in mid September and the parking lot was mostly full, so if you visit during June to August you should get there even earlier. The gate to the parking lot opens from 8am to 5pm.

Once you park the car, follow the path everyone walks on ( 101 ) to Rifugio Lavaredo (Rifugio No.2). The path is super wide and flat and I saw people with strollers and wheelchairs.

Once you go past Rifugio Lavaredo, you will climb uphill for 30 minutes until you come to a view point of the side of the three peaks. Some people turn back at this point but you can continue walking 40 minutes to Rifugio Locatelli (the red one, or I call it Rifugio No.3).

Rifugio Locatelli has really really good food and desserts and you can sit outside with the best view of Tre Cime. The hike there was some uphill but I promise the view is worth it.

At Rifugio Locatelli the path splits. You can either go back the way you came or follow signs to go around the towers to complete the loop.

The Cadini Peaks

Most people go to Tre Cime/ Drei Zinnen for the famous three peaks hike. Little do they know there is another amazing view point opposite of where the three peaks are. You can actually see the Cadini Peaks when you hike back from Tre Cime; the peaks are pretty distinct and magnificent.

The hike to the Cadini Peaks view point starts at the Tre Cime parking lot, opposite of where the 101 trail is. It takes about 40 minutes one way to get to the view point. The latter half of the hike is on a very narrow path next to a cliff but the view is totally worth it.

Here is my blog on how to get to the insanely beautiful Cadini Peaks from Tre Cime . I definitely recommend combining the two hikes to maximize your day and your €30 parking.

Where to Stay near Tre Cime

There are a lot of options when it comes to where to stay near Tre Cime. The biggest town to stay in is Cortina d’Ampezzo and there are a lot of hotels and restaurants in the town. Alternatively you can stay in Misurina, Auronzo, or go a little north to a small village called Dobbiaco/Toblach.

I stayed in Dobbiaco because it was closer to Lago di Braies for the next morning compare to Cortina d’Ampezzo. I stayed at Hotel Rosengarten which was amazing; our room had its own sauna and balcony. It has a restaurant on site but also a few minutes drive to other great restaurants in the area.

Day 2 of 3 Days in the Dolomites: Lago di Braies & Santa Magdalena Village & Lago di Carezza

Day 2 of your Dolomites itinerary is pretty packed, with a lot of driving between towns. However you will see some of the most beautiful places in the Dolomites on this day.

Morning: Lago di Braies

Start your day bright (or dark) and early to visit the famous Lago di Braies (Pragser Wildsee in German). If you stayed in Dobbiaco, it should only take you about 30 minutes to drive to Pragser Wildsee.

Lago di Braies is part of the UNESCO heritage sites in the Dolomites and it also is one of the deepest lakes in the Dolomites with the deepest point at 36m.

The lake became famous because it was featured in the Italian TV show “Un Passo dal Cielo”. In recent years it was also frequently seen on social media as a “must see” in the Dolomites.

Lago di Braies is not all hype fortunately; the lake’s turquoise colored water together with the perfect reflection of the mountains surrounding it make it truly postcard perfect.

When You Should Visit Lago di Braies

The lake is open all day long but I suggest you visit either really early in the morning or late in the afternoon from May to October (you don’t want to go in the winter or spring when the lake is still frozen).

From  July 10 to September 10 , between 9:30am to 4pm, Lago di Braies (and the Pragser Tal Valley) can only be reached by public transportation, on foot, by bike or having a  valid reservation  if you are driving.

I got to Lago di Braies around 7:20am on a Monday in mid September and there were already a row of photographers by the lake shore and a few Instagrammers taking photos.

Around 8am most of the photographers left so it was actually much nicer because there was still the perfect reflection on the water without all the people getting in my photos. By 9am regular visitors started arriving and by 10 it was pretty crowded at the lake.

You can spend as little as 30 minutes at the Lago di Braies just taking photos or as long as 3-4 hours hiking around the lake and rowing a boat .

The hike around Lago di Braies is easy and relatively flat with some uphills and stairs but nothing too bad (you can do it even if you are old or not fit). I really enjoyed the walk since it got me away from the crowd and you get to see the other side of the lake.

The boat rental at Lago di Braies doesn’t open until 10am and boats do run out during peak summer time. In fact in recent years they cut down the number of boats available to 10 and you can only rent the boat for 30 minutes.

See below for Lago di Braies boat rental prices:

• Shared boat ride experience (you share with other people, 5 max per boat):  15 Euros for 30 minutes
• Private boat ride experience:  50 Euros for 30 minutes
• Shared boat ride + E-bike rental:  69 Euros for 30 min boat ride

Check out my comprehensive guide on visiting Lago di Braies/ Pragser Wildsee .

Noon: Drive to the Village of Santa Magdalena (Santa Maddalena) in Val di Funes

The idyllic village is Santa Magdalena sits in Val di Funes in front of the magnificent Odle/Geisler massif in the Puez-Odle Nature Park .

Most people visit Santa Maddalena to see the picturesque Medieval Church from a view point up the hill. Others use St. Maddalena as a base for the hikes in Puez-Odle Nature Park.

It takes about 2 hours to drive to St. Maddalena from Lago di Braies. The roads to Santa Maddalena are not exactly wide or easy to drive on, so expect some narrow twist and turns on your way there.

You may also want to budget more time to drive to St. Maddalena in case you get lost (or in case of random road closures).

Once you arrive in St. Magdalena, you will find different signs for parking so just park where you can in the town. After you park the car, take a moment to explore this quaint village and find a place for lunch.

The famous view point of Santa Maddalena is outside of the town. To find the viewpoint, you should search for “ Panorama di Santa Magdalena ” on Google Maps, it gives you a more accurate direction to the view point, which is up the hills .

It takes about 20-30 minutes to walk to the view point from the town of Santa Maddalena and it is mostly uphill walking.

See my blog for more detailed information on how to find the view point in Santa Maddalena .

Afternoon: Visit San Giovanni Church (Church of St. John of Nepomuk)

Aside from the Santa Maddalena church, there is another famous and frequently photographed church in Val Di Funes called San Giovanni Church .

The San Giovanni Church is a small church located in Ranui in the foot of the Odel Dolomites. The mine owner Michael von Jenner commissioned the construction of this church in 1744.

It is easy to visit San Giovanni Church since it’s literally a 5-10 minute drive from St. Magdalena. When you look for directions, put “Kirche St. Johann in Ranui” in Google Maps and it will lead you right there.

There is a parking lot at where the Google Map location takes you. From there you can actually walk to the church and look inside.

Alternatively if you only want to photograph the church with the mountain peaks behind it, you will have to park on the side of the street at the beginning of the road leading up to the official parking lot.

There is a small platform that you can walk on to take the photo (the area is fenced off and the small platform is the only place for you to stand to see the church and take photos). You can find instruction on how to get to this church from my blog here .

Sunset: Lago di Carezza

The last stop of your Day 2 in the Dolomites is Lago di Carezza (Karersee in German). It’s a small alpine lake in South Tyrol in the foot of Rosengarten mountain range.

Located not too far from the city of Bolzano, Lago di Carezza draws tons of visitors with its emerald colored water and the perfect reflection of the peaks.

It will take you at least an hour to drive from San Giovanni church to Lago di Carezza so make sure you budget enough time so you don’t miss sunset. Sunset is the best time to photograph the lake (or you can visit during sunrise, with even fewer people).

Note that there is a fence all around the lake and signs that prohibit people from hopping the fence to get down to the lake. But many instagrammers blatantly ignore the sign and hop the fence. Don’t be that person and do respect the place you are visiting.

After you visit the lake, you can either drive 40 minutes to the large town of Ortisei (Urtijëi) to spend the night or stay at a hotel near Lago di Carezza.

I decided to stay near the lake since it was getting late and the place I stayed at was a cute apartment called Residence Chris Appart . If you decide to stay in Ortisei, consider Hotel Garni Snaltnerhof , which is located in the center of Ortisei.

Day 3 of 3 Days in Dolomites: Seceda & Alpe di Siusi

This is the last day of your short time in Dolomites and you will be seeing some of the best mountain peaks and views in the Dolomites without much efforts.

Morning: Seceda

Seceda is a mountain located in Val Gardena above the town of Ortisei. Its chiseled hill side is one of the major draw point and gained social media success on Intagram.

Seceda is actually one of the biggest reasons why I wanted to visit the Dolomites so you can imagine my excitement to finally visit this mountain.

There is a live webcam at Seceda so you can always check the condition up there before you go (there is no point to go if you can’t see anything).

How to reach Seceda

Seceda is located above the town of Ortisei, a large touristy town in the heart of Val Gardena. If you are staying near Lago di Carezza, then you need to check out really early to drive about an hour to Ortisei to take the cable car to Seceda .

There is a cable car that take you to the mountain summit of Seceda, check the official schedule and opening/closing time here .

The cable car station is in Ortisei and there are a lot of signs in the town of Ortisei that point you to the cable car station.

There are a couple of different parking lots at the Seceda Cable Car. If you go during peak summer months there’s a risk that the parking lots would get full, so i recommend going as early as possible.

The first cable car to the top of Seceda starts at 8:30am during the summer time and you can purchase tickets at the counter (you don’t need to buy it online).

There are two types of tickets, one to the middle station, then to the Seceda summit (get this ticket). If you are visiting in the summer time, you really should go up with the first cable car to beat the crowd.

Once you are on top, you can walk around to the Seceda photo point (there is a sign pointing to it) or just keep walking around and taking photos. There are hikes on top of Seceda too, so if you want to hike you can do that also.

Lunch: Ortisei

After you come down from Seceda, you can spend some time in Ortisei since there are a lot of restaurants in town. One of my favorite restaurants in Ortisei is Ustaria Da Checco ; it’s a little bit on the pricey side but the food is really good.

Afternoon: Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Alm)

After lunch and resting a bit, be sure to visit another amazing place which can be easily reached by cable car from Ortisei: Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Alm in German).

Alpe di Siusi/ Seiser Alm is the largest Alpine meadow in Europe and it’s one of the most popular ski area in Val Gardena. Located at the altitude of 1680m, the scenic Alpe di Siusi sits in the foreground of Langkofel Group.

Many people come to Alpe di Siusi because there are a lot of hiking trails here and photographers love coming here for the classic photo of the meadow especially during sunrise. There is a webcam at Alpe di Siusi that gives you live condition of the area.

How To Get To Alpe di Siusi

Alpe di Siusi is car-free, meaning that between the hours of 9am to 5pm, you cannot drive up there unless you have a valid hotel reservation.

If you get caught driving at Alpe di Siusi without a hotel reservation, you will be heavily fined.

There is a cable car from Ortisei to Alpe di Siusi near the Ortisei town center that can take you straight up that cost about EU 20 round trip.

However the cable car hours are pretty much between 8am to 6pm (sometimes 5pm depending on the season). For more information of the Seiser Alm cable car, see information on the official website .

Once you get to the cable car station at Alpe di Siusi, you have to walk down towards the “Adler Lodge” then continue down the road for another 10 minutes till you hit the best view point of Alpe di Siusi .

The “hike” down is easy and it takes about 20 minutes but you will need to walk all the way back up to the cable car station, which can be a little tiring especially if it’s hot.

If you have more than 3 days in the Dolomites and want to hike around Alpe di Siusi/ Seiser Alm, consider staying up there for the night. You can get the best sunset/sunrise photos and fully explore the plateau.

The best hotels at Alpe di Siusi is undoubtedly the luxury resort lodge Adler’s Lodge but it’s really expensive and requires minimum of 3 nights booking. Another nearby hotel is Sporthotel Sonne , which requires minimum number of nights for booking also.

Alternatively you can stay in the town of Compatsch , which has cheaper and more hotels. The only drawback is that it’s about a 45 minute walk to the Alpe Di Siusi view point if you want the sunrise shot.

Is 3 days in the Dolomites Enough?

3 days in the Dolomites is actually a really short amount of time, and I personally would suggest at least 5-7 days in the Dolomites to fully experience it.

However if you are limited on time and just want to see the most beautiful places in the Dolomites then follow my itinerary.

If you do have more than 3 days in the Dolomites, then you can either spend more time at Seceda or Seiser Alm, do the hikes in Puez-Odle Nature Park , hike to Lago Sorapis , do a Via Ferrata or visit the Passo Giau . The choice really is unlimited if you are into outdoor activities and hiking.

Other Useful Things to Know Before You Travel to the Dolomites

Hotel receptions are not 24 hours in the dolomites.

One thing that added to my stress of traveling to the Dolomites is that hotel front desks are not always there. Generally they are there between 8am to 5pm but anything before or after those hours are questionable.

Why this mattered to me is because I was getting up really early every morning to get to the lakes and cable cars to beat the crowds. The hotels only took payment upon check out so I was quite stressed that nobody would be there to let me check out.

If you need to get somewhere really early, be sure to tell the hotel front desk the night before so you can make payments (or take care of parking if they have a paid parking garage).

It takes you longer to get to places in the Dolomites than you think

Buses are not always frequent in the Dolomites and you may need to transfer multiple times to get anywhere on public transportation.

Driving in the Dolomites is also tricky because of the windy roads, confusing directions and random road closures. Always budget more time to your travels when driving in the Dolomites so you don’t feel rushed like I did.

You can use credit cards most of the time in the Dolomites

I was worried about how much cash to have with me in the Dolomites because I wasn’t sure if places accept credit cards.

Most hotels and restaurants in the Dolomites accept international credit cards, but you should still have cash for parking and bathrooms (get coins for bathrooms).

If you plan to eat at the rifugios on your Dolomites hikes then you should also consider bringing some cash. Some lodges accept credit cards whereas others prefer cash.

You can [probably] fly drones in the Dolomites

Out of all the mountainous places I’ve visited, Dolomites is probably the most lenient when it comes to drones.

Most places in the Dolomites don’t have signs prohibiting drone usage and I saw many people flying their drones at Tre Cime, Lago di Braies and Seceda. Although rules can change but for now it looks drone friendly although it can be annoying to other people who are trying to enjoy some peace and quietness in the wilderness.

Don’t expect Italian food in the Dolomites

Although the Dolomites is technically in Italy now, it hasn’t always been. If you are expecting amazing pasta and pizza in the Dolomites then you may be disappointed. Although most restaurants do offer some pasta and pizza dishes, you will more likely to find Austrian food and local Tyrolean cuisine.

We had a lot of sausage, meat and Tyrolean dumplings in the Dolomites although we occasionally found a pizzeria here and there. The Italian food cannot be compared to what you would find in Florence and Rome.

Locals drive fast

Italian drivers are known to be aggressive and it is no exception in the Dolomites. As I mentioned earlier, even on narrow windy roads the Italian drivers can be really aggressive and sometimes borderline reckless.

There are also autobahn/ highways in the Dolomites and there is no speed limit, so you can expect cars zooming past you at 120-150 km/h.

What’s interesting to me (coming from the US) is that although drivers can be very aggressive, everyone stays on the right lane (if there are more than 1 lane) and people only use the left lane to pass. Once they pass they automatically go to the right lane, which I thought was courteous.

Other Italy Travel Resources

If you are traveling to Italy I have some other blogs that might interest you!

• How to spend 10 days in Italy – 4 Amazing Itineraries
• How to spend one day in Florence
• One Week Amalfi Coast Itinerary
• Best things to see on the Amalfi Coast
• Best things to do in Marsala, Sicily
• Best things to do in Trapani, Sicily
• Other Dolomites blogs

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The perfect 3 days in the Italian Dolomites

• Daniela Ene
• February 24, 2020 June 22, 2020

The Dolomites are a subgroup of the Alps in South Tyrol, just by the Italo-Austrian border. Mainly popular for its gorgeous ski slopes and resorts, this area transfigures into every hiker’s paradise during summertime. If you’ve got no idea about the Dolomites and they are not on your bucket list, then you are most likely unaware of one of Europe’s natural wonders. But I can promise you: by the time you’ll have read this post, you will most likely want to teleport to this amazingly beautiful place. Let’s take a look at what you can do in 3 days in the Italian Dolomites!

Table of Contents

How to get around?

The Dolomites were part of our 10-day northern Italy itinerary. You can also simply focus on this area only though. Fly to either Verona or Venice, if that’s the case. Having Verona airport as the starting point of your trip will help you trace the route we picked. The total costs of the trip at the end do  not  include the flights.

Given the short time, the places we wanted to see and the distance between them, we decided to have a car rented for this trip. We highly recommend you do the same, especially if you also have only 3 days in the Italian Dolomites! We got our car through rentalcars in Verona, a manual gearbox Fiat Panda. The owner company was GoldCar, one we had previously heard some bad stories about. Despite all odds, we had an overall satisfactory experience with them – no fake damage bills! Also good to know, should you ever wish to rent a car in Italy, you must own a credit card.

If you don’t have a driver’s license or just want to avoid the hassle of renting a car, no worries! There is a decent network of buses and trains running around the Dolomites. However, transfer times will increase, you will depend on schedules, and your overall comfort may be slightly lower.

Rented car, total expense

• Car : 125€/3 days (including full-insurance)
• Young driver fee: 26€ (only appliable to drivers under 26 of age)
• Highway tolls: 35€
• Parking taxes: 21€
• Parking fine: 30€

Where to stay in Dolomites?

Our accommodation base was Bolzano, a small and cozy mountain city in south Tyrol. Thinking back, we would probably split our stay in order to drive shorter distances. We stayed in this B&B , perfectly suited for our 3 days stay in the Italian Dolomites. A small double room with private bathroom, self check-in and check-out, a couple of parking spots around… As well as that, the location was perfect, just few steps away an awesome biergarten and the center!

• accommodation: 123€/ 2 nights Mary’s Apartments Bolzano

Day 1: Seceda Peak

Our first stop in the Dolomites was the gorgeous Seceda peak, 2500m above sea level. We had been keen on seeing it for so long! Just after picking up our car in Verona airport we headed straight away towards Ortisei (German: Sankt Ulrich). It took us two hours and a half to reach this little village and start our way up to Seceda.

The fifteen minutes ascend is divided into two segments: Ortisei to Furnes, then change to Seceda. Tickets for both routes combined cost 24€ one-way or 32€ for the return. Our initial plan was to go there by cable car and come down on one of the several hiking paths so we just bought two tickets to our destination and hopped on the cable car ride. Within moments we were up high, with stunning views over the Dolomites!

Once we got to the top, we spent two hours hanging around and taking loads of pictures. The nature at Seceda is just incredible! Soon, the weather had its word though. A grueling rain woke us up from dreaming and we were run off to the ”rifugio”. All wet and cold, we both agreed it would be stupid to try walk our way down. Luckily, we could still take one of the last cable cars going back to Ortisei, which costed us another 12€. We changed inside the car, got warm and then off to Bolzano, so we could check-in and then have couple of hours more to explore the city.

• cable car: 24 + 12 = 36€/ person
• Ortisei parking tax: 6€
• Bolzano parking tax: 2€ (parking is free between 21:00 – 8:00)
• food: 30€/ person
• snacks: 15€

Day 2: Lago di Braies, Tre Cime di Lavaredo

Lago di braies.

Lago di Braies(German: Pragser Wildsee) is undoubtedly one of those places that seem too beautiful to be true on social media. In our 2nd day, we woke up at 6am and took the road to the lake. Starting early enough to avoid traffic jams and huge crowds of tourists is always a good idea. From Bolzano to Lago di Braies it is roughly an 1 1/2h drive. Do you worry about parking? You should know there is a parking lot just by the lake (P2) – 6€/ 3h.

Just around the corner, Pragser Wildsee reveals you exactly the image you were expecting. A blue, clear, shallow lake reflecting the mountains in the background – still covered by morning mist and clouds. But please don’t let yourself deceived by the instagrammers’ outfits! It’s actually freezing, especially in early hours, so if you wanted to pose in a poshy dress…well, think again!

All around the lake’s shore you’ll see many photographers with impressive gear, trying to take their most stunning shots. Another nice option you have at Lago di Braies is the boat ride. Public boat rental is available after 9am. Also, for those wishing a lifetime memory, private shootings are being organised before 9. However, you have to get around 150€ out of your pockets for that. We chose the 1h easy walk around the lake and Vlad took care of our own ”shooting”.

After more than 3h at this marvellous location, we hit the road towards Tre Cime natural park. As we were exiting the parking, we saw huge car queue on the other side, with people waiting to get as near to the lake as possible. Once again, being early birds is worth it!

Tre Cime di Lavaredo

Route : Lago d’Antorno – Rifugio Auronzo – Rifugio Lavaredo – Rifugio Locatelli – Rifugio Auronzo – Lago d’Antorno Time : 6 hours Difficulty Level  : Low Access in the natural park costs 30€/car and includes parking at Rifugio Auronzo.

One of the most famous formations in the Alps, Tre Cime di Laveredo consists of three high peaks (Cima Piccola, Cima Grande, Cima Ovest). Formerly part of the border between Italy and Austria, Tre Cime can only be seen as a thin cultural line nowadays, mixing together the Italian population with the German speaking minority. In fact, the whole region makes you forget you are actually in Italy. Everything due to the powerful German influences concerning language, architecture and cuisine. Lago D’Antorno is 1h away from Pragser Wildsee by car. Only 6km further was our hike’s starting point, Rifugio Auronzo. However, with a very long stream of cars ahead of us, we could slightly move any further. We made up our minds and decided we were going to trek all our way up. As about the car, we left it on a 120′ limited time parking spot, although fully aware there was no possible way we could be back in two hours.

Awesome views and a parking fine

Even if it’s not marked at the beginning, the trail starts just parallel to the road. Loads of other ambitious tourists were joining, so we couldn’t get lost. The way to Rifugio Auronzo is not difficult, although it’s mostly climbing up so be prepared for a good hike!

From Rifugio Auronzo to Rifugio Lavaredo, and further on to Rifugio Locatelli the trail is basically plateau. Trust me, it will feel so welcome after the constant effort before! The views you get are simply spectacular. You’ll take many breaks, not only because of tireness, but for the thousands of pictures you’ll wish to take. Going back to Auronzo from Rifugio Locatelli may get a bit more challenging. Despite that, you’ll be very proud to have finished the whole tour at the end.

However, if you are not in the best condition or just don’t feel like walking any longer, stop at Rifugio Lavaredo. Get your best glimpse over the three majestic mountain peaks, and then turn back to Rifugio Auronzo on the same path. Here you can find homemade food, salads, sandwiches, hot drinks, beer, prosecco, basically anything you need in reward. As for us, we had a nice paninni and a glass of Apfelschorle. Fourty-five minutes under the bright sunshine went by so fast!

Watching car by car drive down the twisting road reminded us we still had 6km to walk in order to collect ours. This time we took the driveway and not the woods path we came up on. The way down was much easier, and we kept on running till we could spot the our Fiat’s shining yellow. And a tiny 30€ parking fee under the windshield wipers 😉

No need to ask why, we had just exceeded the free parking time by 4 hours 🙂 Our efforts to understand what the Italian note said were in vain. Eventually, we found out it was impossible to pay it via internet, so we needed to get to a post office. Which, btw, were all closed the next day, as August 15th is a bank holiday in Italy. So we had to pay the fee and return the car until midday on August 16th in Verona. Easy!

• P2 Lago di Braies: 6€/3h
• Rifugio Auronzo snack: 7€
• Bolzano dinner : 35€
• Parking Bolzano : 1€

Day 3: Lago di Carezza, Val di Funes, Geisler Alm

The last of our 3 days in the Italian Dolomites started with one more early wake-up call. Our first schedule checkpoint was Lago di Carezza, another splendid lake with breathtaking views. The lake makes a 45 minutes drive from Bolzano. We checked-out from our apartment, departed towards the lake and arrived there at around 8 am. If you visit the Dolomites, make sure you don’t miss this place as well. The images below speak for themselves. Astonishing mountains arise behind the layer of tall fir near the emerald green water. Trust me, all your expectations regarding this lovely place will be fulfilled!

By the time we got there, only very few backpackers were around. We could enjoy the entire place for ourselves! We took a walk surrounding the lake, ate raspberries from the woods before making our way to Val di Funes.

Now that’s where we have to admit we lacked some pieces of information. Unfortunately we were unable to find ”Val di Funes” on neither Waze or Maps. We soon realised this was actually a bigger area consisting of several little villages (San Pietro, Santa Maddalena). Asking around for directions was useless, we couldn’t spot any image of the place we had in mind.

This is when we decided to make a sudden change to our plan. We recalled there was a very beautiful mountain cabin called Rifugio Odle – Geisler Alm, which by chance was also very close to our location. Fifteen minutes we parked at the crossroad just before the San Giovanni church, in Santa Maddalena. Free parking made us even happier 🙂

Geisler Alm

The hike to Geisler Alm should take 2h and is marked, as it’s a forest road designed for 4×4 vehicles. We climbed all the way up at a rather fast pace and cut this to 1 1/2h. Once you get out of the woods, you’ll be greeted with this landscape:

Up above, Rifugio Odle has a nice bavarian-style restaurant with great outdoor seating. We had prepared a picnic, so we ordered two beers and an Apfelschorle and laid on the grass, admiring the amazing views.

Nearby, there are also a playground for children, a small farm and a relaxation area with wooden chaise-longues facing the mountains. Yep, you can be as lazy as it gets! We sat there for hours and took loads of pictures before heading back to Chiesa di San Giovanni. Our day turned out to be even better than expected!

• Lago di Carezza parking: 6€
• drinks at Geisler Alm : 15€

TIPS and TRICKS

• If you travel Dolomites by car, be careful: you should only park in blue-marked areas. Don’t leave your car in white-marked areas, they are private and you will pay serious fines.
• Pay highway tolls in cash to avoid card payment issues and the possibility of not getting your number plates registered in the system.
• Dolomites weather can be chilly, even during summer. Dress accordingly. Don’t even think you won’t need a jacket!
• Spending 3 days in the Italian Dolomites is awesome for first-timers. But be sure you can make your stay longer!

Total expenses: 670€/ 2 people

Our 3 days in the Italian Dolomites ended with this view, driving back to Verona. Summary: we slept little hours, walked A LOT, spoke „italian”, german and english, drank craft beers and ate traditional bavarian food in Italy. After all, we wouldn’t change a thing and look forward to coming here again sometime!

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Where Jess Travels

Dolomites 3 Day Itinerary: The Perfect Weekend in Italy

Searching for the ultimate Dolomites 3 day itinerary ? You’re in the right place – I recently returned from the perfect long weekend exploring this magical destination.

Visiting the Dolomites is a trip that’s long been on my bucket list. I had dreams of frolicking through the meadows, swimming in the alpine lakes, and dining on hearty dishes in the Rifugio’s.

And this September I made that dream a reality as we spent 3 days exploring the region.

3 days in the Dolomites definitely wasn’t enough time to see everything I wanted to see, but it was a great introduction.

In this guide, I’ll cover everything you need to know to plan the perfect 3 day trip to the Dolomites . Including how to get there, where to stay, how to get around, and a day by day breakdown of activities and hikes.

➡️ I’d really recommend hiring a car to visit The Dolomites. Public transport options are limited so having a car gives you more flexibility to explore the area at your own pace.

DOLOMITES 3 DAY ITINERARY: QUICK INFORMATION Fly into | The Dolomites is served by Venice, Bolzano, Verona, Milan, Munich & Zurich. Most people (including us) fly into Venice Getting around | Hiring a car is the best way to explore the Dolomites as public transport in the area can be unreliable Where to stay | Cortina d’Ampezzo for the Eastern Dolomites, and Ortisei, Santa Cristina, and Selva di Val Gardena for the Western Dolomites. Find the best places to stay on  Booking.com

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Where to base yourself for 3 days in the Dolomites

Something that I think is helpful to know before we get into this guide is that the Dolomites is huge , and whilst places might look close by on a map, mountain roads don’t lend themselves to speed.

So if you’re only visiting for 3 days, I’d recommend basing yourself in one place and exploring that area. Otherwise, you’ll spend a lot of time driving from one side to the other.

Eastern and Western Dolomites

It can be helpful to think about the Dolomites in terms of East and West, and I’d recommend choosing one side if you’re only here for 3 days.

The Eastern Dolomites includes places like:

• Lago di Misurina
• Cortina d’Ampezzo
• Tre Cime di Lavaredo
• Cortina d’Ampezzo
• Lago di Braies
• The Cinque Torri

The Western Dolomites includes places like:

• Alpe di Siusi
• Val di Funes (and Geisler Alm)
• Val Gardena
• The Puez-Odle Nature Park

Where we stayed

We were lucky enough to be staying at the incredible Miramonti hotel for work, which is based above Merano in the Western dolomites.

So, we focused our time on the Western Dolomites for this trip, and more specifically South Tyrol, visiting Seceda , Alpe di Siusi and Val di Fune s .

I desperately wanted to visit Lago Di Braies and Tre Cimi but we’d have wasted so much time getting there when we could have been exploring.

Usually, I’m a “pack as much as I can in” kind of traveller but this hotel was so incredible we wanted to take time to enjoy it and relax.

So perhaps we could have crammed more in, but this way worked for us. And by the end of the trip I felt as though I’d truly discovered an area, rather than only scratching the surface of multiple places.

HOTEL RECOMMENDATIONS (WESTERN DOLOMITES)

If you’re planning on visiting the Western Dolomites , I’d recommend basing yourself in Ortisei, Santa Cristina or Selva di Val Gardena.

1. Hotel Digon

Hotel Digon only has 21 rooms, so it has a small and intimate feel. There’s a complimentary breakfast included in the room rate, and free parking on site.

Outside is a large infinity pool that’s heated all year round, offering incredible views of the mountains.

There’s also a restaurant at the hotel serving traditional South Tyrolean cuisine.

2. Alpenhotel Rainell 

Alpenhotel Rainell is only a 15 minute walk from the cable car station, and offers incredible views from the mountain pool.

There’s also a sauna area, landscaped garden for sunbathing, and an extensive leisure and sports programme.

The hotel is made up of rooms and apartments depending on your group size and preference, and there’s also a brilliant restaurant on site.

3. Alpin Garden Luxury Maison & Spa

Alpin Garden Luxury Maison & Spa is an adults-only hotel with a focus on wellness.

Their wellness centre is split across 2 levels and includes a Finnish sauna, Turkish bath, Biosauna, Salt-sauna, relaxation areas, a heated outdoor pool and whirpool, and an indoor pool and whirpool.

You’re only 10 minutes away from the centre of Ortisei and a 20 minute walk from the cable car station.

HOTEL RECOMMENDATIONS (EASTERN DOLOMITES)

If you’re visiting the Eastern Dolomites , I’d base yourself in Cortina d’Ampezzo. It’s a big town with lots of restaurants, and it’s under an hour from Tre Cime and Lago di Braies.

1. Hotel de LEN

Hotel de LEN only has 22 rooms, including 2 suites, so expect a really personalised feel from your stay.

The interior is refreshingly modern, and there’s an incredible spa on the top floor boasting a bio-sauna, steam room, ice waterfall, and a hot tub.

Restaurant de Len serves up local ingredients on a curated menu, and the cosy hidden bar is the perfect place for a cocktail after a long day hiking.

2. Dolomiti Lodge Alverà

Dolomiti Lodge Alverà has a more classic mountain lodge style, with some rooms having their very own freestanding bath tub.

There’s an on site restaurant and terrace with incredible views of the mountains, and a heated indoor/outdoor swimming pool.

As much as I absolutely loved staying in Miramonti, it was truly one of the most incredible hotels I’ve been to, its located on the edge of the Dolomites and it was a long drive to everywhere we visited. So for your first visit to the area, I wouldn’t recommend it.

GETTING TO THE DOLOMITES

There’s a number of airports that serve the Dolomites, and which one you choose will depend on where your accommodation is.

Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE): Venice is the most popular choice for a trip to the Dolomites, and where we flew into. It’s well connected to major international airports, and a 2 hour drive from towns like Cortina d’Ampezzo in the Eastern Dolomites.

Verona Airport (VRN): Verona Airport is a good option for those planning to explore the western and southern Dolomites, including areas like Trentino and the Val di Fassa.

Innsbruck Airport (INN): Innsbruck is under 2 hours from the South Tyrol region of the Dolomites, and around 2 and a half hours from Trentino and the Val di Fassa.

Bolzano Airport (BZO): Bolzano Airport is the closest airport to the heart of the Dolomites, but there’s limited international flight options.

Milan Airports (Milan Malpensa, Milan Linate): Milan is the furthest away from all of the airports listed here, but it could be a good option if you’re visiting the Western Dolomites.

HIRING A CAR

Without a doubt the best thing we did on this trip was hiring a car . There is public transport in the Dolomites, but it’s not always reliable, and if you’re visiting off season, it doesn’t run at all.

➡️ I use   Discover Car   whenever I’m hiring a car abroad. They compare lots of different providers to find you the best price. Plus, I’ve never had any bad experiences where they won’t give you your money back at the end like you sometimes hear about with dodgy car hire companies. The process is always really simple and stress-free.

Having a car meant we had complete flexibility to go where we wanted , when we wanted. It also allowed us to change our plans last minute if we wanted to add a detour to a new spot we’d seen online.

The roads through the Dolomites are mostly wide, motorway-type roads, so driving here is really easy.

DOLOMITES 3 DAY ITINERARY

We spent 3 days exploring the Dolomites in early September, and here’s everything we packed into our long weekend.

DAY 1: SECEDA

On our first day in the Dolomites we headed to Seceda , a mountain in the Puez Odle Nature Park famed for its jagged peak.

As the clouds glide over the top of the mountain, it feels as though you’re in the sky. It’s truly one of the most magical places I’ve ever visited.

Seceda is the perfect place for your first day as there’s very little effort involved in getting to the top, but the reward is huge. It’s a great introduction to the beauty of the Dolomites.

To visit Seceda Mountain, you’ll need to make your way to the  town of Ortisei.

Driving is the easiest way to reach Ortisei, and I’d strongly recommend  hiring a car  in the Dolomites to give you full flexibility with your plans.

➡️ Read my full guide to visiting Seceda h ere

Getting to the summit of Seceda

There’s a couple of options for getting to Seceda, depending on your fitness level and the amount of time you have.

The easiest way to reach Seceda (and the route I chose), is to  get the cable car from Ortisei.

You’ll first take a cable car from Ortisei to Furnes (located at 1,720m), and then you’ll switch to another one that takes you up to Seceda (at 2,500m). The journey takes about 15 minutes in total.

A return journey costs €39.50 for an adult ticket and €21.00 for a junior ticket.

You can take dogs and bikes up with you, but they cost an additional €5.00 each.

Once you add on the cost of parking, this definitely isn’t a cheap activity, but I promise it’s worth it.

Parking for the cable car

The cable car station is located in Ortesei, and it’s called  Funivie Seceda Spa  on Google Maps. There’s a car park at the cable car station which costs €13 a day.

There’s a parking attendant in the car park and you’ll need to pay as you enter. Cash is preferred but card is ok too.

Cable car opening hours

The cable car runs from 08:30am – 17:30pm.

The cable car is only open during the summer months, which this year will be from  May 31 until November 3, 2024 )

HIKES AT SECEDA

There’s a number of hiking routes around Seceda and they’re all beautiful, so I wouldn’t worry too much about which one you take.

Short hike to the viewpoint

Turn left as you come out of the cable car and you’ll see a sign pointing in the direction of the viewpoint.

It’s a short 10 minute walk but it is uphill, so I’d recommend doing this first (we left it until the end when I was already exhausted, which was a bad move).

Up here, you have incredible panoramic views over the Odle, Sassolungo and Sella Group mountain groups, as well as views towards Alpe di Siusi, Val di Funes and as far as the Austrian alps on a clear day.

From this viewpoint, you can continue along the path and loop back round to the cable car station, which will take about 35 minutes in total.

I’m not good with heights, so we chose to head back the way we came as I didn’t want to get to close to the edge. There is a fence there, I’m just a big baby when it comes to heights.

Hiking hut to hut

If you want to spend longer at Seceda, hiking hut to hut is a brilliant way to spend the day. We didn’t follow a particular route, but ended up on a circular walk that took us around 3 and a half hours, including stops at multiple mountain huts and time to take pictures.

There’s around a dozen Rifugio’s (mountain huts) at Seceda, and they’re the perfect place to break up a hike with a beer, cake or a leisurely lunch.

Below is a look at our route – the gap is where we stopped it at Sofie Hut for lunch at the end.

From the cable car station, it’s only a few minutes to the first hut, Sofie Hut. This was my favourite hut at Seceda and we actually stopped here for lunch at the end of the hike.

The portion sizes are huge and the food is hearty and delicious. We had the carbonara and the ribs and it was some of the best food we had during our whole trip.

The views here are incredible and there’s plenty of sun lounger style chairs to relax in and admire them.

Next we stopped at Mastlé Hut, which is a lot smaller than Sofie Hut and perfect for a quick snack.

Then we headed to Daniel Hut , for a drink. This hut is huge and has a large sundeck which is perfect for relaxing on.

I tried a Hugo spritz for the first time here, and fell in love with it. The drink comes from the South Tyrol area so you’ll see it in most bars in the area. It’s made from Prosecco, elderflower liqueur, sparkling water and mint.

It’s a really refreshing drink and a brilliant way to break up a long walk.

Fermeda-refuge

Fermeda is the only place on Seceda where you can get wood-fired pizza, so it’s a great place to stop if that’s what you’re in the mood for.

This hut is run by the Runggaldier family and gets a 4.7 star rating, so you can expect great food and excellent service.

They serve a traditional South Tyrolean menu with produce from their family farm.

DAY 2: VAL DI FUNES AND GEISLER ALM

Geisler Alm is a Rifugio (or mountain hut) based in South Tyrol, an area that includes part of the Dolomites range.

You’ll find Rifugio’s scattered all over the Dolomites, ranging from basic to luxury, with some offering overnight accommodation for hikers. But all of them provide food and drink, and the concept of walking, then stopping at a Rifugio, was one of my favourite things about our trip.

If you’re not an avid hiker (as I am not), Rifugio’s are a great way to break up the walk, whether it’s for coffee and cake, a quick beer, or a lunch stop.

Geisler Alm is one of the most picturesque Rifugio’s in the Dolomites. It’s run by the Runggatscher family, and as well as serving delicious food with excellent service, it’s most famous for its incredible location and views.

➡️ Read my full guide to visiting Geisler Alm here

Where is Geisler Alm?

Geisler Alm is located in Val di Funes, a 24km-long valley in South Tyrol. It’s worth dedicating at least half day of your itinerary to exploring the area as there’s lots to see.

I’ll cover some other points of interest at the end of this blog post.

Where to park to visit Geisler Alm

The best car park for visiting Geisler Alm is Zannes/Zans Car Park . You’ll pay the parking fee at the booth upon entry and you can stay for as long as you like.

Parking costs €8 for the day and you can pay with cash or card .

How far is the hike to Geisler Alm?

From the car park to Geisler Alm, it took us about an hour and a half. You’ll then need to hike back which takes about an hour.

On the way, we were stopping to take pictures, but on the way back we didn’t stop at all.

Total hike time = 2 and a half hours + extra time at the Rifugio.

Hike details to get to Geisler Alm

Geisler Alm is located along the Adolf Munkel trail, a walking route that runs along the Odle/Geisler mountain group.

Many people choose to hike to whole trail, but we decided to take a shorter, circular loop that passes Geisler Alm and starts and ends at the car park.

Step by step hike details

The trail starts in Zannes car park. We parked in a space the furthest away from the booth, and found the nearest sign at the back of the car park.

You’ll start off following trail number 6 to Geisler Alm/Rif Delle Odle .

From here, you’ll walk along a tree-lined boardwalk and you’ll mostly be following a gravelled path through the woods for a while.

After a short walk (around 1 mile), the route automatically joins the Adolf Munkel trail (number 35) signposted towards Geisler Alm/Rif Delle Odle .

You’ll need to cross over the bridge and turn left on trail 35.

As the Adolf Munkel trail runs along the Odle/Geisler mountains, you’ll get some amazing views at this point in the hike, so have your camera ready!

You’ll come across signs along the way, just keep following #35 towards to Geisler Alm/Rif Delle Odle .

At this sign, you’ll want to keep left, where you’ll be around 30 minutes from Geisler Alm.

After a while, you’ll come to another sign. Keep right to join trail #36a towards to Geisler Alm/Rif Delle Odle . From here, you’re only 20 minutes away.

This part of the hike is mostly through woodland, but you’ll get a few glimpses of the mountain range.

And finally, you’ll get to a final sign, where you’ll follow trail #36 towards to Geisler Alm/Rif Delle Odle . You’re only 5 minutes away now.

THINGS TO DO AT GEISLER ALM

After 5 minutes, you’ll arrive at Geisler Alm, which was easily one of the most incredible places we visited on our trip to the Dolomites.

The hut is overlooked by the mountain range and it’s the perfect place to stop and catch your breath.

There’s plenty of chairs and benches around the grounds so you can relax and marvel at the mountains. But the hut is most famous for its cinema style chairs that mean you can actually lie down and rest.

Most people visiting Geisler Alm also stop for lunch here. They serve traditional South Tyrolean cuisine, made using produce from their kitchen garden and neighbouring farms in Val di Funes.

Expect dishes such as goulash, burgers, dumplings, ribs, lamp chops, venison, risotto and carpaccio.

This Rifugio gets a rating of 4.6* from over 2,000 reviews, so you can trust that you’re going to have a good meal.

Some people choose just to grab a drink here, and there’s also a variety of cakes and sweet treats if you need a sugar boost.

If you have children with you, there’s also a playground and a large meadow for them to run around in. And there’s cows in the far field that you can go and say hello to.

Visit San Giovanni Church

Whilst you’re in Val di Funes, I’d recommend stopping off to see San Giovanni church.

The San Giovanni Church, or the Church of Saint John is located in the small village of Ranui, a 10 minute drive from Zannes car park, so it’s well worth a visit before or after Geisler Alm.

The car park for the San Giovanni church can be found with these co ordinates (46.6370170, 11.7208360) and costs €2.

For the best viewpoint of the church with the mountain range in the background, there’s a clearly marked photo spot on the right as you drive up to the car park.

You can also get a closer look at the church by paying €4 cash at the turnstile. You won’t be able to go inside.

Best time to visit: I’d strongly recommend visiting San Giovanni first thing in the morning or later in the afternoon, otherwise the light will be far too harsh and wash out the mountains. We didn’t time it particularly well so learn from my mistakes.

DAY 3: ALPE DI SIUSI

For our final day in the Dolomites, we headed to Alpe di Siusi.

It’s the highest large alpine meadow in Europe and the perfect place to immerse yourself in the hut to hut hiking culture.

There’s 790 different plant species that grow on the meadows, as well as birds, deer and other wildlife that call this magical place home.

➡️ Read my full guide to visiting Alpe di Siusi h ere

Getting to Alpe di Siusi

There’s a couple of options for getting to Seceda, depending on what time of day your visiting.

Driving to Alpe di Siusi

To reduce traffic at Alpe di Siusi, car access is very limited. Unless you’re staying in a hotel on Alpe di Siu si , you can’t drive up between 9am and 5pm .

If you’re driving, you’ll need to make sure you pass the S. Valentino forest station before 9:00 a.m.

There’s two car parks to choose from on Alpe di Siusi. I’d recommend the one closest to Compatsch, as this small town is where the hikes start from.

P2 car park at Compaccio

Location |   Google Maps

Parking Charge  | 24 EUR per car

Distance from Compatsch | 1 minute walk

P1 Spitzbühel car park

Location | Google Maps

Parking charge | Free

Distance from Compatsch | 25 minute walk

Taking the Cable Car to Alpe di Siusi

If you’re arriving after 9am (as we did), don’t worry. You can take the cable car up to Alpe di Siusi and it’s really easy.

The  Seiser Alm Aerial Cableway ( Google Maps ) is located in the town of Siusi and one cable car will take you from the bottom up to Compatsch on Alpe di Siusi.

There’s a large free car park at the cableway station with plenty of spaces.

The cable car runs from 8am – 6pm or 7pm depending on the month. In the peak summer months it runs until 7pm.

The cable car closes in the winter, and this year is open from  May 18 until November 3, 202 4.

Cable car cost

As of Summer 2023 when we visited the Dolomites, the cable car prices were:

One way | €16.00 Return | €24.00

Children under 8 | Free

Junior (16+):

One way | €10.00 Return | €14.00 Family – 2 adults + children:

One way | €36.00 Return | €52.00

You can take bikes on the cable car at a cost of €6.00 one way. Dogs can also come at an extra charge of €2.00 one way

How long does the cable car take?

It takes around 20 minutes to get to Compatsch from Siusi in the cable car.

Taking the bus to Alpe di Siusi

There’s several bus routes that will take you to Alpe di Siusi. Find more information here.

When’s the best time to visit Alpe di Siusi?

This will completely depend on what you want to do when you’re there. In summer, the main thing to do here is hike.

In winter, the main activity at Alpe di Siusi is skiing.

We visited Alpe di Siusi in early September and it was perfect for us. The summer crowds had disappeared and so had the heat, so it was an ideal temperature for hiking. And we could enjoy lunch outside at the huts.

In terms the best time of day to visit, the only thing to consider here is that the last cable car down from Alpe di Siusi runs at  7pm , so make sure you give yourself enough time to explore.

How long do you need at Alpe di Siusi?

Our circular walk around Alpe di Siusi took 2 hours, plus 30 minutes for lunch.

I’d allow at least 3 hours to explore Alpe di Siusi, have time to take photographs, and enjoy a lunch in one of the huts.

We took quite a leisurely approach to our time in the Dolomites and spent a lot of time relaxing in the hotel as we didn’t want to feel rushed.

But you could visit Alpe di Siusi in the morning, and then head to nearby Seceda or Geisler Alm in the afternoon.

Circular hike at Alpe di Siusi

We visited Alpe di Siusi on our last day in the Dolomites, so we had a flight to catch from Venice in the evening and little time for a huge hike or any mistakes along the way.

I had a few things I wanted from my hike and I couldn’t find a guide that met my requirements, so I’m hoping this one will help you if you want the same things. They were:

• A circular walk that started and finished at Compatsch cable car station
• I wanted to bypass the famous photo spot on Alpe di Siusi
• And I wanted to have lunch at a Refugio half way through

The route we took to achieve all of those things is below:

Head left from Compatsch cable car station

With Compatsch cable car station behind us, we went left down the path.

The beauty of Alpe di Siusi is that you’re met with incredible views as soon as you step out the cable car, so there’s lots to see straight away.

Continue following trail #14b

You’ll catch some pretty impressive views of the jagged peaks of Sassolungo to your right.

At this point, the walk enters through woodlands and you won’t have any views for a while, but keep following the signs to Monte Piz .

You’ll soon come to a clearing and you’ll want to turn right, following trail #3 to Monte Piz .

After a while you’ll head past a hotel and restaurant on your right, and directly in front will be two gravel paths. You’ll want to turn left and follow trail #14b towards Icaro, St Ulrich and Ortisei .

This was my least favourite part of the hike. There’s no view and it’s all uphill, so it’s tiring and there’s nothing to distract you. But it doesn’t last long so keep going.

You’ll soon see the jagged peaks of Sassolungo again, and you’ll make your way past ICARO hotel on the left.

Follow trail #6 towards Adler Mounten Lodge .

Now you’ll be back in the meadows, on a flat, wide path, surrounded by incredible views.

The beauty of doing the uphill part of the hike early on when you have the most energy, is that the rest is fairly flat.

Alpe di Siusi photo spot

After about 15 minutes on this path, you’ll come to a bench with a sign to let you know you’ve arrived at the famous photo point.

In case you just want to visit the photo point, or you get lost, here’s the Google Maps location .

There was no one else here when we arrived, so we spent time admiring the view, taking photos and flying the drone. It’s truly incredible, I can’t believe places like this exist.

Trail #9 to Hotel Restaurant Sonne

After admiring the view, continue along the path, following signs to Hotel Restaurant Sonne. If you like, you can stop at the Sonne hotel for a drink as the views are incredible, but I’d recommend continuing on for food.

Trail #6b to Compatsch

Once you get to the Sonne hotel, you’ll want to turn right, following trail #6b towards Compatsch (where we started).

From the Sonne hotel, it’s only a 15 minute walk to Malga Sanon (the Sanon Hutte), where we stopped for lunch.

Malga Sanon serves up hearty South Tyrolean food, perfect for refuelling after a long walk. There’s a large playground for children, and it’s also where you can get the iconic heart framed photo of the Sassolungo.

We ordered the Goulash and the ribs and they were both delicious.

Follow signs to Compatsch

At this point, the route is fairly easy as you’re following signs back to Compatsch. It takes about an hour to get back from the hut.

After a while you’ll come to a fork in the road at which point you could turn left and head to Rauchhütte , another Rifugio that serves fresh, homemade pasta dishes. This was my first choice of restaurant but we didn’t have time for the detour.

For the last part of the hike you’re walking along a road, until you get back into the meadows for the final 15 minutes to the cable car station.

DOLOMITES 3 DAY ITINERARY: WHAT TO PACK

A water bottle: There’s plenty of water fountains around the Dolomites perfect for refilling your bottle. I have this Stanley bottle , it keeps water cold for over 12 hours, and has a straw for easy drinking A backpack: I have this Osprey backpack which is perfect for day hikes. There’s space for my camera equipment, extra layers, snacks and my water bottle in the side. Hiking shoes: I’d recommend a pair of hiking shoes or boots for your trip to the Dolomites. They don’t need to be expensive but they’ll support your feet much better than trainers. These are a great option for your first pair of boots, and they’ll last a long time. A raincoat: The weather can change quite quickly in the mountains, so I’d pack a raincoat just in case. I always like to carry a pac a mac as they don’t take up much room.

DOLOMITES 3 DAY ITINERARY : FAQS

Is 3 days in the dolomites enough.

3 days in the Dolomites will give you an insight into the magic of the area, and will be enough time to visit a few places really well. The Dolomites is huge though, so don’t expect to cover it all in 3 days.

What month is best to go to the Dolomites?

This depends on what you want to do there. In the summer, hiking is the main activity in the Dolomites, and in winter, it becomes a ski destination. We visited in September which was the ideal month for hiking, as the crowds and the blazing heat had disappeared.

Where do you fly into for the Dolomites?

The Dolomites is served by a lot of airports, so you’ll have plenty of choice when it choosing an airport. Where you fly into will mostly be dictated by where you’re staying. Venice serves the Eastern Dolomites Verona, Innsbruck, Bolzano

Do I need a car in the Dolomites?

Yes, I’d definitely recommend hiring a car in the Dolomites. There is public transport in the Dolomites, but it’s not always reliable. Having a car meant we had complete flexibility to go where we wanted, when we wanted, and add in any stops along the way.

Is the Dolomites closer to Milan or Venice?

The Dolomites is closer to Venice than Milan , which makes Venice airport a more popular choice for visitors to the area. It takes 2 hours to drive from Venice Marco Polo airport to Cortina d’Ampezzo, and over 4 hours from Milan Bergamo airport.

Are the Italian Dolomites expensive?

Yes, the Italian Dolomites are expensive . As with all mountain regions, you’ll pay a premium for food and drink here, especially if you’re eating in restaurants. Accommodation here is pricey too, but if you book in advance you’ll be able to find something that suits your budget.

DOLOMITES 3 DAY ITINERARY : THE WRAP UP

There you have it, my (rather chunky) Dolomites 3 day itinerary.

I hope this has made your trip planning somewhat easier. If I can give you one piece of advice it’d be to not overthink it too much, wherever you go, it’ll be amazing.

There’s no place quite like it.

Hi, I'm Jess, the founder of Where Jess Travels. After studying Psychology at University, I pursued a career in Marketing for 7 years, whilst taking as many trips as my annual leave would allow. I now work full time on my blog, sharing destination guides and hotel reviews.

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3-Day Dolomites Itinerary: How to Explore Trentino-Alto Adige by Car

Last Updated on March 12, 2024 by Michela

One of Italy’s most beautiful regions actually doesn’t look much like how you picture Italy to be at all. Trentino-Alto Adige is Italy’s northernmost region. Cozied on Austria’s border, the landscape here is dominated by the characteristic jagged stone peaks of Le Dolomiti, a mountain chain apart of the Alps. The Dolomites are a geographical wonder and it’s hard to not gawk at every mountain and valley you’ll pass on the sparse, narrow roads. Fortunately, to help you navigate these winding streets and ensure you don’t miss a thing, I am dishing my perfect 3-Day Dolomites Itinerary.

The jagged Dolomites stretch out over two regions of Italy, Trentino-Alto Adige and Veneto.

There’s really no better way to see this UNESCO World Heritage Site than by car!

You could always pay for a tour company, but having no say in what you get to see and less flexibility takes the fun out of discovering places on your own!

I’m going to make this road trip guide as thorough as I can by suggesting where to go, to the best towns to stay in!

Consider also fitting this itinerary into a broader northern Italy itinerary to make sure you hit all the bucket list stops.

For more help planning, check out my driving in Italy guide and how to save money on a road trip and create an effective budget.

Some of these links are affiliate links. This means if you make a purchase through that link, I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Read my full disclosure !

3- Day Dolomites Road Trip Itinerary

Some notes about this itinerary:

I personally traveled from Lombardy to the Trentino-Alto Adige region. A more popular route may be to travel from the Veneto region if you’re coming to the Dolomites from Venice. In this case, I would recommend doing the itinerary backward.

In any sense, you don’t have to follow this itinerary to a tee.

I tried to create it by factoring in the things I experienced – the perfect locations to stay, the time it took to drive between places (it takes longer than you think since you’re surrounded by mountains,) so that I could use that insight to help you plan your own!

This itinerary is basically one big suggestion for you to take into account when planning yours.

I’ve included all the places, popular and hidden gems alike, that I wouldn’t want you to miss!

Good to Know: You’ll need an International Driving Permit to drive in Italy!

On day 1, coming from the Lombardy area, you’ll be making your way into the heart of the Dolomites.

Lago di Carezza

The earlier you can arrive at Lago di Carezza, the better. That’s because sunrise is the evenest lighting for photography purposes. Oh, and one other reason – the angle of the sun at sunrise makes the lake a literal mirror.

At midday, when I arrived, the lake was still gorgeous, just less of a crisp reflection.

At Lago di Carezza, parking is super close by and you will have to pay a small parking fee.

The walk around the lake could be done in less than an hour! It’s a great quick and stunning stop on your road trip.

Eating Nearby

If you do arrive at Lago di Carezza around midday, there is an amazing, authentic alpine grill nearby for lunch. Mini BB Pitt is a rugged mountainside lunch in which meat, veggies, fresh cold cuts, and more are cooked right in front of you. Enjoy some South Tyrolean cuisine while you can – if the landscapes don’t make your visit, the food will!

While in the Dolomites, I suggest visiting a town or two in between all the nature you’ll be visiting.

That’s because the region of Trentino-Alto Adige is unlike any other in Italy. From the architecture to the terrain to the people, it’s a cool-toned, woody mix of German and Italian culture.

On the border with Austria means the whole region is basically bilingual – almost every spot also has a German name for its Italian name.

I loved visiting Bressanone for its small alpine town charm and feel. Discover the 10 best things to do in Bressanone to spice up your road trip!

The rough stone, the red-spired churches, the ice blue river cutting through the town are juxtaposed by the warm green mountains surrounding the valley in which it nests completely contrasting the Mediterranean picture that comes to mind when you think of what Italy is.

Bressanone is a town famous for its Christmas markets in the winter. So if you’ve ever desired to frolic in an idyllic European Christmas market, Bressanone may be your chance.

It’s perfectly located between Lago di Carezza and the rest of the stops on day 1 for an afternoon stroll.

Alpe di Siusi

If you have the time, drive or hike up to Alpe di Siusi, or Seiser Alm, its German name.

I didn’t because I spent too much time at the next destination (scroll to see my favorite day 1 spot!), but I do wish I did. Fun fact: it’s the largest alpine meadow in Italy.

This alpine meadow is an even, hilly land dominated by huge Dolomite peaks that soar above it.

Val di Funes

My favorite stop of this day – the dreamy Val di Funes!

I’m not exaggerating when I say dreamy – in fact, I’ve dreamed of seeing Val di Funes for years!

It’s my must-do on Day 1 of this 3-day Dolomites itinerary.

You’ll drive down a dead-end road passing fields of bright green and tiny cabins spaced out across the acreage. But the dreamy part?

These bright green fields are the foreground for those cool-toned, sharp peaks.

There are two famous photo spots here, the church of Santa Maddalena and Chiesetta di San Giovanni.

Enjoy what will feel like a living painting by driving to San Giovanni Church and taking a few steps up the hill across the church. For reference, you can look at my specific guide on h o w to visit Val di Funes .

I set up a perfect picnic for the last stop of the day and I couldn’t have dreamed up something more beautiful.

In Val di Funes, you’re also close to the famous Adolf Munkel Trail for those who like to hike.

Day 2 is full of majestic mirrored lakes to blow your mind. Expect to set your alarms early & have a bit of a long day in order to fit in all the magical places of your second day.

Lago di Braies

Speaking of setting your alarms early, there’s no better time to see what is likely the most famous site of the Dolomites than as the sun rises.

Even upon arrival at dawn, you will still find a decent amount of people setting up their cameras like you. That’s because Lago di Braies is one of the most beautiful lakes in the world and the lighting at sunrise is the best in which to capture its beauty.

It’s a living mirror of the mountains that tower over it – add that to the aesthetic wooden rowboats floating on the still surface of the water.

If there’s any spot you should visit on day 2 of this 3-day Dolomites itinerary, it’s Lago di Braies.

You can plan your perfect trip to visit Lake Braies using the tips in my in-depth guide .

I highly recommend hiking around the lake. The whole path takes about an hour and you’ll discover unique views aside from the classic Instagram photos you see of Lake Braies.

The one downside to arriving early in the morning means the boathouse won’t be open yet.

If you’d like to ride on the lake in a wooden boat, the boathouse usually opens around 9 am and it costs 18 euros per half hour for a boat.

You will have to pay a parking fee. And don’t forget your camera gear for this spot! I highly recommend my travel gear essentials if you’re wondering what to bring!

Good to Know: The German name for Lago di Braies is Pragser Wildsee. Don’t let the navigation or road signs confuse you, as all of them in this region list both Italian and German translations!

Lago di Dobbiaco

As you leave Valdaora, the main road then leads you to the towns of Dobbiaco and San Candido.

These are also towns known for their Christmas markets.

Lago di Dobbiaco is an expansive lake, again with beautiful reflections. A walking trail around the lake makes it easy to hike (no worries, it’s all flat around.)

If you like to bike, Lago di Dobbiaco has a bike trail that runs through it and I saw many people biking! It’s a lovely setting for a ride.

You will have to pay for parking, but it’s inexpensive and this is also a stop where you don’t have to spend too much time unless you plan to walk all around.

Lago di Misurina

Lago di Misurina is another beautiful lake in the Dolomites. It’s a very romantic setting and a bit more lively atmosphere than the other mentioned previously. With a few shops as well as a picturesque hotel at the end of the lake, taking a stroll along Lago di Misurina is a perfect afternoon break.

I personally adored the area around Lago di Misurina. The peaks of the surrounding area, including Tre Cime, look so stunning and crisp in this wide-open valley. The clear view of the mountaintop meeting the sky takes your breath away.

Driving up to Lago di Misurina, you’ll pass many mountain bikers and encounter many hikers also visiting the lake (parking could get crazy!)

Along the road where cars park is fields of horses and cows. I about died when I saw them! After I strolled lakeside, I backtracked the road entering the area to snap photos of the beautiful animal inhabitants of the Dolomites.

The Tre Cime di Laveredo is one of the most famous peaks of the Dolomites.

If you have the time, I highly recommend the hike! I didn’t have the time, but I so wish I had gotten closer to this natural wonder.

An extra tip if you’re an avid hiker, the Dolomites are full of “rifugio” which are small accommodations at the mountaintops for those planning to hike most of their trip.

The magical Dolomite peaks will be your neighbor in these alpine, wood cabin refuges!

Rifugio Auronzo is near Lago di Misurina and Tre Cime if you desire a breathtaking mountain stay during your hike.

On day three of your 3-day Dolomites itinerary, there are sort of two directions you could go.

I would suggest staying the overnight of day 2 in Cortina d’Ampezzo, the luxury ski town of the Dolomites. This is also the best route to go if you are heading next or back to the Venice area.

If you’re traveling back to the Lombardy region, you’ll basically have to backtrack the road you’ve been taking this whole journey, but it won’t be a complete waste of the day if you stop at Lago di Tovel and the Val di non.

And if you have the energy, you can see both! Stay at Cortina d’Ampezzo for the night and morning and make your way to Lago di Tovel in the afternoon.

Cortina d’Ampezzo

After ending your day at Lago di Misurina and Tre Cime, Cortina d’Ampezzo is nearby. With lots of options for accommodation, it’s a perfect town to stay in on your second night, as I mentioned before.

Cortina is famous in Italy as a ski resort town. It’s especially a must-do if you are traveling in the winter and desire to ski in the Alps.

I actually didn’t visit Cortina d’Ampezzo because I was traveling the other way! But before my trip, I had researched the resort town anyways in case I stopped there.

Val di Non & Lago di Tovel

Lago di Tovel is quite the journey to get to. You have to go off the main highway and drive another 45 minutes to an hour to reach the Adamello Brenta National Park in which it’s housed.

The drive may sound like a lot, but I promise it’s worth it.

Especially because the drive is extremely scenic; you’ll be winding through mountainside roads atop steep cliffs lined with endless apple orchards to the barely visible valleys below.

And if you manage to drive through without stopping for a bite (good luck!), you’ll soon reach Lago di Tovel.

Lago di Tovel is a huge lake with a beautiful walking trail all around. There are countless spots to climb down to the shore where you can enjoy the vast landscape and the fresh alpine air.

It’s a perfect half-day activity. There is a small museum as well as a restaurant midway through the hike. You will also need to pay for parking!

Honorable Mentions for a 3-Day Dolomites Itinerary

My dreams of seeing the Dolomites had much to do with its beautiful lakes and picturesque valleys. But there’s so much more to see!

You can really customize your road trip to your interests. There are endless activities in the Dolomites including camping, hiking, mountain biking, and photography.

Here are some honorable mentions that you may want to consider working into your 3-Day Dolomites itinerary (and that are still on my bucket list!):

• Lago di Sorapis
• Cinque Torri Hike
• Lago di Landro
• Seceda Hike
• Lago di Resia
• Monte Piana First World War Museum (near Lago di Misurina)
• Puez Odle Nature Park

Dolomites Weekend Itinerary Map

Here’s a map of the locations I talked about which can help you better visualize your itinerary. If you want to take inspiration from this post to create your own map, follow the easy instructions on my guide to Google Maps Trip Planner !

Where to Stay

I have an entire guide on the best places to stay in the Dolomites .

Regarding this itinerary, I narrowed my options down to the area of Valdaora. It was the most central location between all of my bucket list stops on the itinerary.

I stayed at the Hotel Scherer and highly recommend this hotel for its room size and offering of both breakfast and dinner included (of which both meals were actually delicious!)

It had a lovely outdoor area in the back, as well as a sauna included.

If you’re looking for luxury accommodation in the same area, I highly recommend Hotel Hubertus , known for its incredible infinity pool.

Other towns known for their central locations and options for accommodation include the Val Gardena area like Ortisei, Cortina d’Ampezzo , and Bolzano .

The SGTD Take

A 3-day Dolomites itinerary will be a whirlwind adventure. You will see so many beautiful places in such little time that you’ll be pinching yourself very often!

Leave room for spontaneity on your itinerary – you’ll be wanting to pull over frequently to take in the views!

Italy Trip Planning Resources

• Accommodation : For Italy, I mainly use Booking.com to search and book places to stay.
• Booking flights : I like to search for flights through Skyscanner , but I also book direct depending on the airline.
• Activities & experiences : For things to do that require a ticket, and for more unique trip activities, I use Musement .
• Road trip : For renting a car, I get the best prices by comparing companies with AutoEurope . I then use ViaMichelin to estimate road trip costs and Autostrade.it to find gas stations/have live updates on traffic.
• Transportation : Traveling by public transportation is a great way to see Italy. I use Trenitalia or Trainline to book tickets for trains and Flixbus for long-haul bus trips.
• Accessories : I always travel with this portable charger to stay connected and with a universal adapter to accommodate Italy’s plug types.
• Need help planning an itinerary? Fill out my form for a custom itinerary request !

Don’t forget to save these beautiful places to your Pinterest board!

I hope a Dolomites road trip is in your near future! Suggest your favorite Dolomites sites or a place you dream of going in the comments – I’d love to know!

Michela is a travel writer and photographer living in northern Italy. She is passionate about helping people make the most of their travels by sharing advice gained from her personal experiences, off-the-beaten-path destinations and time-saving quick itineraries. Browse her top articles or have her help you plan your itinerary to your dream destination!

Find me on: Web | Instagram

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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 2024-04-08 / 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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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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The Dolomites Tours & Trips

Find the right tour package for you through The Dolomites. We've got 48 trips going to The Dolomites, starting from just 4 days in length, and the longest tour is 12 days. The most popular month to go is September, which has the most tour departures.

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• Hiking & Trekking

Hiking in the Dolomites

Great value for money. Good tour guide. Excellent travel company. Some days the hiking was a bit light. Would have given it 5 stars if the hiking was every day. Also tourradar/intrepid could also consider providing a higher cost tour where we stay at different refuges every day. This will reduce the transportation constraints and time and increase the Dolomites amazing experience.

• Mountain Hikes

The tour was very nice with amazing views and Andy was a great guide. It would have been nice if the hotel we stayed at offered something warm for breakfast as well instead of just plain sandwitches, cereal and sweets.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Classic Dolomites - Premium Adventure

Great trip , our guide Rob was brilliant hotel great.

• In-depth Cultural

4 Days DOLOMITES TOUR - from Milan

allesandro and our driver were wonderful

Dolomites Adventure

Walks in the Italian Dolomites

The hotel was great, friendly service, yummy food and lots of it. The walks were great, the app worked well. Unfortunately, being a bit early in the season meant some of the walks were not available, we didn’t find out until trying to get to the start. The hotel thought they were open also. A couple of other walks would then give other options. Overall I really enjoyed it all.

• Self-Guided Cycling

Innsbruck - Verona

• Sightseeing

Alpine Adventure: Discovering the Dolomites

• Coach / Bus

Dolomites Explorer From Venice - 7 days

• Wine tasting

Venice to Milan: 7-Days Alps & Dolomites Tour

Amazing Dolomites Alps – ITALY

Dolomites Guided Walk

It was a great trip. people were very friendly. Guide paid lot of attention to the safety of the walk. One of the Refugio did not have hot water (should look into it). The other Refugio had too many people in one dormitory. Never the less an excellent trip..

Italian Lakes & Alps Express - 5 days

The Magic of Dolomites: Alpine Adventure

Dolomites of Cortina Explorer - Self-Guided Hike

What people love about the dolomites tours.

What an excellent adventure! Our leader, Andy, was just top notch! So, knowledgeable and accessible. I highly recommend this trip!! Jan

The Dolomites Tours starting in:

• Venice (13)
• Explorer (31)
• Fully Guided (29)
• Personalized (24)
• Family (22)
• Hiking & Trekking (20)
• Bicycle (16)
• Private (14)
• Self-Guided (14)
• Active (10)
• Partially Guided (5)
• Small Group (17)
• 7 Day Tours (18)
• 10 Day Tours (21)
• Spring 2024 (16)
• Summer 2024 (35)
• Fall / Autumn 2024 (36)
• Winter 2024 / 2025 (2)
• Spring 2025 (4)
• Summer 2025 (4)
• Fall / Autumn 2025 (4)
• April 2024 (7)
• May 2024 (16)
• June 2024 (24)
• July 2024 (31)
• August 2024 (29)
• September 2024 (35)
• October 2024 (18)
• November 2024 (1)
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• January 2025 (2)
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• March 2025 (3)
• April 2025 (1)
• May 2025 (2)
• June 2025 (4)
• July 2025 (4)
• August 2025 (5)
• September 2025 (4)
• October 2025 (1)

Other Regions in Italy

• South Italy (628)
• Northern Italy (333)
• Central Italy (290)
• Sicily (232)
• Campania (179)
• Amalfi Coast (177)
• Tuscany (177)
• Puglia (126)
• Italian Alps (112)
• Apulia (110)
• Prosecco (110)
• Italian Lakes District (70)
• Veneto (69)
• Trentino Alto-Adige (64)
• South Tyrol (49)
• Lombardy (47)
• Weather in the Dolomites 2024/2025

Travel Styles

• Singles and Solo (34)
• For Couples (10)
• Seniors (20)

International Versions

• English: The Dolomites Tours & Trips
• Deutsch: Dolomiten Rundreisen
• Français: Circuits en Les Dolomites
• Español: Circuitos por Los Dolomitas
• Nederlands: De Dolomieten Rondreizen

3-Day Via Ferrata Tour through the Dolomites

Conquer the Queen of the Dolomite Mountains, Marmolada, during this 3-day action packed tour. At the end of each exhilarating day, you'll rest among the serenity of beautiful mountain huts.

During our 3-day tour we’ll cover some of the protected climbing routes that were first made during World War I to get to Marmolada, the Queen of the Dolomites. Marmolada is the highest mountain in the Dolomites (3,343 meters) and has several summits. It is also home to the Marmolada Glacier, the only glacier in the Dolomites. We’ll climb different intermediate level via ferratas each day. We'll also visit the Marmolada Glacier. After long days of exhilarating climbing, we’ll come to rest at some beautiful mountain huts. These include: the Padon Refuge, situated opposite the Marmolada Glacier, and the Pian Dei Fiacconi refuge which is the gateway to the glacier and the site of stunning views of the Sella Group and the Fedaia Lake. *Price given is for only 1 person. The price per person decreases as your group size increases. Please contact me for final pricing.

Renato Bernard Dolomite Guide

Select dates, please select date.

Add your travel dates for exact pricing.

This trip has a duration of .

What to bring

• Footwear that's suitable for both hiking and climbing
• Clothing that's suitable for the season
• Camera (cause you're going to want to capture these views)

What's included

Similar experiences.

marangu 5 days

cocacola route

MACHAME 6 DAYS

RUSH TIME CLIMBER

MACHAME 7 DAYS

HIKKING BEGGINER

LEMOSHO 9 DAYS

FULL MOON ADVENTURE

from $1,071

Please contact us if there are any questions: 706-310-5094

The best 3 day hiking itinerary in the Dolomites

The Dolomites are a stunning mountain range in northern Italy. Towards the end of spring and summer they become a haven for hiking, cycling and outdoor activities. It’s a completely underrated place and in fact so many people don’t know it exists! I visited in June 2022, over 4 days. So, here’s my itinerary of how to have the best three days hiking in the Dolomites. You’ll see stunning mountain ranges, use cable cars, admire beautiful blue lakes and picturesque villages. 

The itinerary

This itinerary doesn’t include a travel day, so depending on where you’re coming from, you may need to add a travel day. We were based near Cortina d’Ampezzo so each day starts with driving to the respective hike.

Day 1: Tre Cime di Lavaredo, Lago d’Antorno & Lago Misurina

Today is the day that you will be going to one of the most famous hikes and iconic sights in the Dolomites, Tre Cime di Lavaredo. Three huge protruding rocks surrounded by mountains, valleys and a few small lakes. This hike takes around three and a half hours and is quite easy. Note it costs €30 to access the road to the parking, which seems steep but is worth it. For more information on the Tre Cime di Lavaredo loop check out my post here

After completing the hike, on the way back stop off at Lago d’Antorno. A small but beautiful lake where you can take a short 20 minute stroll around the lake. Slightly further on you’ll come across Lago Misurina. This lake is huge and again you can walk around it but can also hire pedal boats to explore. 

Day 2: Hike from Col Raisier to Seceda, Santa Maddalena & Lago Di Braies

Today is a full day out. With one big hike, one small hike and also visiting the famous Lago di Braies. I recommend following the hikes in this order, as the first big one requires using the Col Raisier cable car which is open from 08:30 – 17:30. I’d suggest leaving fairly early in the morning around 7am. Take a packed lunch so that you can get to the Col Raisier cable car around the time it opens so you can make the most of the day. 

So the first hike you’ll be doing today is from Col Raisier to Seceda Ridge. Seceda is another famous site in the Dolomites and it is amazing! The hike itself takes around 4.5 hours and is a little steep in some places. However you are rewarded with stunning views at every point. If you don’t fancy hiking you can take a different cable car to Seceda Ridge and then do a short hike up there to Pieralongia, take a look at my post here for more information. 

After getting the cable car back down it’s time to hop in the car and drive to Santa Maddalena. This drive is about an hour away and when you get here, follow the signs to parking for the church. Here follow the signs to Santa Maddalena or ‘Kirchsteig’ which means church path in German. Once at the church it’s a short 15 minute to this amazing viewpoint! Check out my post here for details on how to get here. 

From here, it’s now on to part three of today, Lago Di Braies. The most recognised Lake in the Dolomites, picture perfect! It’s about 1.5 hours drive from Santa Maddalena. Once you get here you can choose to walk around the lake or actually what we did is hire a boat to row on the lake which was so much fun! The boat hire closes at 6:30 so ensure you get here by 5:30 latest if you do want to hire a boat, it’s also really cheap €20 for 30 minutes and 4 people can go in one boat. 

Day 3: Lago Di Sorapsis

Today’s hike is a moderate/tough 4-5 hour round trip but is so worth it when you see Lago di Sorapsis. It’s one of the most stunning lakes you will ever see. It’s only about a 20 minute drive from Cortina d’Ampezzo to the start of the trailhead. The parking for the hike is along the road just past the Hotel Passo Tre Croci. I’d recommend getting here early and starting the hike around 7:30/8am. You’ll find that the later you start the more people you’ll encounter and have to wait behind on the path. This will add time and can be frustrating.

The trail is quite steep in some places and some tricky places where you can hold rope to help you. When you get to the lake make sure you walk all the way round to experience it in it’s entirety. Take time to soak in the pristine, serenity and beauty of the lake. 

This hike was my favourite in the whole trip and I would absolutely recommend it! 

With more time

If you have more time, then you may want to check out these other hikes/lakes too. They’re on my list for next time!

• Adolf Munkel Trail
• Lago Di Carezza

How to get to The Dolomites & get around

The easiest way to get the Dolomites is to fly to Venice and then drive about 1.5/2 hours to where you’re staying. Driving to the Dolomites is actually really quite easy. From Venice you pretty much drive on the motorway most of the way there until you reach the start of the mountain range. Here the roads become a little windy and are one lane each direction but not too bad at all. 

I’d definitely recommend hiring a car for this trip. You’ll have greater flexibility in terms of what hikes you want to do and when you can start them. There are public buses however they are slower, will definitely add a lot of time to your journey and require more planning. 

Where to Stay

We based ourselves in Cortina d’Ampezzo. This was because it’s a good base for the a lot of the hikes we wanted to do including the famous Tre Cime di Lavaredo. 

We stayed in this beautiful Airbnb Cesa Tuze and would 100% absolutely recommend it. The hosts were unbelievably accommodating, flexible and really kind. The place was amazing, with four of us sharing two bedrooms and two bathrooms and we had a fully functioning kitchen which was so useful for preparing lunches for our hiking days. 

When to go to the Dolomites

The best time to go hiking and avoid the crowds is June or September. I can imagine the roads and hikes are very busy and crowded in July-August. Also I think I personally would find it too hot to hike then, so it’s good to visit in the shoulder seasons.

• Make sure you have good sturdy hiking boots & socks, you will need them. We walked at least 20,000 steps every day! So you want to make sure that your feet and ankles are supported and are wearing the right footwear. Along with hiking boots, make sure you wear hiking socks 
• Put suncream on. You’re up high in the mountains and if you have good weather like we did when it was 30 degrees at some point throughout the day, you’ll definitely want to make sure that you put suncream as you don’t want to burn. 
• Bring a container to pack your lunch in for the day. We made a really easy 10 Minute Meal of couscous, frozen veg and chickpeas to make sure we had a good balanced meal along with our snacks whilst hiking. A packed lunch because it gives you more flexibility for the day. And if a hike takes you longer or you want to spend more time like looking at the view then you’re able to do that 

I hope you have the best time hiking in the time it’s like I did. I would absolutely recommend it and I honestly can’t wait to go back and explore more of the area!

Related posts

How to hike the amazing Kjeragbolten

How to hike the famous Pulpit Rock

How to hike to the stunning Lago di Sorapsis

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• Trip Styles
• Destinations

• Trip Destinations
• Alps Guided Treks

Italian Dolomites Trek

Venice, italy, trip highlights.

• Famous Mountains
• Dramatic Cliffs & Valleys
• Unique Wildlife
• Charming Villages
• Wonderful Accommodations
• Exquisite Regional Cuisine
• Amazing Natural & Cultural History

Description

This amazing trip follows a gorgeous itinerary through unforgettable mountains with stunning views, cozy 3-star accommodations and regional cuisine. We focus exclusively on the Italian Dolomites, one of the most spectacular mountain ranges in the world! The Dolomites are a recognized UNESCO World Heritage Site, universally valued for their unique and exceptional natural beauty. Geologically distinct (consisting mostly of high-quality limestone) and with fantastically unusual shapes and features, they have inspired artists, scientists and outdoors enthusiasts for centuries.

Alternating between towering, alpine passes and lush, diverse valleys, we explore a wonderland of scenery and adventure. The magic of these Italian landscapes emerge in detail as our week progresses and we discover alpine plateaus, dramatic massifs, pristine rivers and lakes, fields of wildflowers, fairy-tale villages, awe-inspiring mountain vistas and a lot more.

$3755 Per Person

$265/$600 single supplement.

The scheduled rate for this trip is based on double occupancy. Single rooms are available on a limited basis for an additional single supplement. The price of the single supplement is dependent on what size room is available at the time of booking. If you’d like to upgrade to a single room, please let us know when you register.

DIFFICULTY LEVEL 3

Scale of 1-5. 1 is least difficult; 5 is most difficult

Hiking Distances:

Up to 10 mi

Backpack Weight:

Moderately Rugged

Max Daily Elev. ↑↓:

Up to 2000 ft

Heights Exposure:

Please Note: Terrain, Elevation Gain and Heights Exposure ratings reflect the section or day of the trip with the maximum difficulty of each. Much of the trip is at easier levels. See the trip itinerary for more detailed information.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS OF THIS TRIP

• Hiking uphill or downhill with a 8-12 lb backpack for 6-8 hours
• Maintaining balance and footing on variable, uneven terrain
• Potentially hiking across snow
• Hiking with occasional, significant heights exposure

SOLITUDE LEVEL 2

1 least solitude, 5 most solitude

We rate this Alps hiking tour a solitude 2. You can expect as much as an hour of solitude at a time.

•   Travel to
•   Minimum Guests

We require a minimum of 2 guests to confirm this trip. If booking within 90 days of the trip date, we require a minimum of 4 guests to confirm this trip. If a trip date is not confirmed yet, you can register and will be notified when the trip is officially confirmed. We recommend not making final travel arrangements until your trip meets the minimum number of guests and is confirmed.

In most cases, if a trip does not reach the minimum number of guests, you may choose to transfer to another trip date or another trip, be refunded your payments in full, or you may have the choice to pay a supplemental fee to run the trip with fewer guests. We make the final determination for these trips 65-60 days before the departure date.

Private Trips

Travel in perfect company by booking a private trip exclusively for your group!

Our sliding scale for private trips is based on the final number of guests in your group. Rates are per person and do not include sales tax, national park fees or guide gratuity. The final rate is based on the actual number of guests on the trip and may adjust based on cancellations or additions.

Please Note: you can also enjoy a private trip at our normal scheduled rates by filling any empty tour to capacity. However, if group members drop from the tour those spots will automatically become available on our website for instant booking. By purchasing a private trip at the rates listed below, your trip will remain exclusive to your group regardless of cancellations. 

Private Rates FOr This Trip

• 2 people: rate x 2.5
• 3 people: rate x 2
• 4-5 people: rate x 1.5
• 6-10 people: rate x 1.15
• 11-12 people: standard rate
• 13+ people: contact us for availability and pricing

*all rates are per person and single supplements apply

Learn About Our Private Trips

• Vehicle Transfer: 2.5-3 hours

On this  Alps hiking tour , we begin with arrival at Venice International Airport. Please arrange your flight to arrive at or before 2:30 P.M. After rendezvousing with your guide and group at the airport arrival terminal at 3 P.M., we will transfer via a private shuttle to our accommodations in the small village of Pocol just outside of Cortina d’Ampezzo. This scenic area will be our home for the next 4 nights and boasts fabulous views of the surrounding mountainous landscape. Once settled into our rooms, your guide will conduct a brief orientation meeting to discuss the specifics of your trip before enjoying our first dinner together. The food in this region is a mixture of Austrian, German and Italian influences; which is common in many areas of the Dolomites.

• Hiking Distance: 6.2 mi (10 km)
• Elevation Gain: 1150 ft (350 m)
• Elevation Loss: 2346 ft (715 m)
• Trekking Duration: 4.5 hours

We begin today with buffet breakfast spread at our hotel before taking a short private transfer to the starting trailhead for today’s hike. Our hike takes us towards an amazing mountain pass. After skirting beneath the towering limestone cliffs of Averau, we will stop and have lunch at the Averau Refuge surrounded by stunning views of the Italian Dolomites, before continuing down to another refuge, Scoiattoli. This stretch of our hike is directly across from the stone towers of Tofane and the world famous Cinque Torri. Climbers from around the globe love these towering pillars, and you will see why – they are dramatic, sheer and awe-inspiring. We will visit several fascinating World War II relics including mountain bunkers and defensive outposts, which for many guests is an unexpected highlight. After soaking in the views and learning some of the region’s fascinating history, we’ll descend gradually back towards civilization and catch a short transfer back to our accommodations. Once back at our accommodations we’ll have time to relax before dinner at our hotel, with the Alps as our backdrop.

• Hiking Distance: 7.2 mi (11.6 km)
• Elevation Gain: 1330 ft (405 m)
• Elevation Loss: 3050 ft (930 m)
• Trekking Duration: 5-6 hours

Day 3 starts with another short transfer after another European buffet breakfast spread at our hotel. On today’s hike we start from the road at the Giau pass. Along the way we’ll cross over 3 small passes on our way to a high plateau with an alpine pasture and amazing views. Once through this area we’ll continue ad drop down to the picturesque high elevation Federa lake where we’ll sit down for a delicious trail lunch. After lunch we’ll descend to our awaiting transfer along a beautiful forested path crossing a river along the way. Once back at our accommodations we’ll have time to relax before dinner and tonight’s meal is planned at a fabulous hand-picked restaurant in the charming mountain town of Cortina d’Ampezzo.

• Hiking Distance: 6.5 mi (10.5 km)
• Elevation Loss: 2067 ft (630 m)
• Trekking Duration: 5 hours

Day 4 starts with another short transfer after another European buffet breakfast spread at our hotel. On today’s hike we explore the opposite side of the mountain valley from Cinque Torre. We follow a traversing route along the southern face of the Tofane di Rozes, one of the Dolomite’s most dramatic cirques. Our sweeping views are of the areas we have explored over the last two days of hiking, giving us a wonderful vantage to appreciate all we’ve accomplished thus far. Our path eventually takes us to the Dibona Refuge, where we’ll sit down for a delicious trail lunch. After lunch we’ll descend back to Pocol along a beautiful, forested path.

• Hiking Distance: 9 mi (15 km)
• Elevation Gain: 1476 ft (450 m)
• Elevation Loss: 2822 ft (860 m)
• Trekking Duration: 4.5-5 hours

This morning we will pack up our bags after breakfast and transfer via a private bus up to the Auronzo Refuge by private shuttle. From here we will start today’s hike, which is a memorable one indeed. We hike over the pass of Forcella de Mezzo to the North face of the famous Tre Cime, a towering, dramatic peak. This is the most famous mountain in all of the Dolomites and our backdrop for the next few days of hiking. We continue on to the pass of Forcellina and its neighboring, stunning alpine lakes. Our hike ends with a descent through the picturesque Rinbon and Rinbianco valleys back to our hotel and awaiting luggage for a much-deserved dinner and relaxing evening.

• Hiking Distance: 8.1 mi (13 km)
• Elevation Gain: 1936 ft (590 m)
• Elevation Loss: 1936 ft (590 m)

Today begins with another great European breakfast buffet at our hotel, after which we head up to the Auronzo refuge by private transfer to start our second day of hiking around the region’s famous Tre Chime di Lavaredo. Today the views are expansive, and the landscapes are unforgettable. Mountain peaks, passes, valleys, and lakes fill our day with an ever changing back drop of once-in-a-lifetime views. A few of these highlights include Lago di Cengia, the pass of Büllelejoch, and the Lakes dei Piani. We finish up our hike going up and over the Laveredo Pass down to our starting point. A local public bus will transfer us back to our hotel for one last relaxing night and celebratory dinner with Lake Misurina as our backdrop.

• Hiking Distance: 5 mi mi (8 km)
• Elevation Gain: 1312 ft (400 m)
• Elevation Loss: 1312 ft (400 m)
• Trekking Duration: 4 hours
• Vehicle Transfer: 3-4 hours

Our last day of the Italian Dolomites Lodge-based Tour gives us one more impressive half-day hike into the Popéna Valley. This quaint, remote valley just behind Lake Misurina allows us one last look at the surrounding beauty of the Dolomites. After returning to our hotel we will take a private vehicle transfer to the Venice Airport, then Mestre Train Station. Flights should be planned for a 6pm departure or later. What a week it’s been!

Please Note : We always do everything in our power to follow the set itinerary, however occasionally trips are subject to itinerary changes based on a variety of circumstances, including but not limited to: lodging/campground availability, extreme weather, political or bureaucratic obstacles, earthquakes, fires, flooding and more. Normal  terms and conditions  apply to trips with itinerary changes.

Trip Dates & Booking

Trip dates & booking.

Click on a date to register. You can also click here to request new dates or book through customer service.

AVAILABLE TO BOOK

This trip is available and bookable online! Click on the date to register now or contact us online to book through our award-winning customer service team!

This trip has 1 or 2 spots remaining and is bookable online! Click on the date to book now or contact us online to book through customer service.

REQUEST A RESERVATION

This trip is exclusively booked through customer service due to logistics with lodging, permits, staffing, availability, or something else. Please contact us online or call us at 800-715-HIKE (4453) to request a reservation.

Don't see your dates? Call us! We may be able to add new trip dates.

Trip details, what's included.

• A detailed trip packet that takes the guesswork out of your travel, training, packing, and preparing for the trip
• Trained hiking guide(s) with years of personal wilderness and hiking experience, medical certifications, and a passion for leading people into breathtaking landscapes. See  Guide Bios .
• Transportation for the duration of the tour starting on Day 1 and ending on the day you depart
• Private transfer to Cortina on day 1
• Private transfer to Venice (Mestre station or Airport) on day 7
• Lodging for the duration of the tour
• Use of a day pack, trekking poles and other gear
• All meals from dinner on Day 1 through lunch on the last day
• Emergency equipment including a company-issued first-aid kit and emergency communication device

What's Not Included

• Transportation to Venice, Italy
• Beverages and personal expenses
• Trip insurance  that includes medical coverage and at least $200,000 in evacuation and repatriation coverage (required in the Alps)
• Bar bills, drink bills, extra snacks, telephone bills, wifi bills and other personal expenses (shopping/ laundry)
• All expenses due to unavoidable events e.g. flight cancellation, personal illness, strikes, etc. (we recommend trip insurance coverage for these variables)
• Clothes, rain gear, and footwear ( see recommendations )
• Sunscreen, toiletries and personal items
• Water bottles and a headlamp or flashlight
• Guide gratuities are optional and at the discretion of each customer. A suggested guideline is to reward outstanding service with a tip of 10-15% of the total trip cost. Please tip your lead guide and they will distribute responsibly to the crew. Local currency is preferred, or USD is also appreciated.

Click here to see a printable, downloadable trip information packet with more detailed guidance about what to pack.

Meals: What to Expect

This Alps hiking tour features a combination of in-town meals and meals prepared by your guide. Most lunches are prepared on the trail by your guides. Italian meals with Austrian and German influences will be had in our hotels and nearby towns! Bread, grains, pastas, rice, polenta, local cheese, and pork products are all staples in this region.

It is common in the Alps that restaurants do not allow groups to order from an a la carte menu; a set menu is created, and guests do not have the option of ordering differently from the set menu.

We can often accommodate vegan, vegetarian, kosher and non-gluten diets and make adjustments for food allergies. These and other special dietary requests may require an additional fee, and in some destinations may be more difficult to accommodate than others. Please inquire with us for more information about the specific trip you’re interested in.

Gear We Provide

We provide all group gear which includes the following:

• Trekking poles
• Company-issued first-aid kit
• Emergency communication device

Guest Packing List

When you register for this tour you’ll receive access to a printable, downloadable trip information packet with a detailed packing list specific to this trip ( click here to see it now.) All trips require a sturdy pair of hiking shoes or hiking boots, rain gear, a recommended clothing system, a headlamp or flashlight, a hydration system (water bottles and/or bladder) and other items specific to each trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

We have compiled the most frequently asked questions that Wildland Trekking guests have about visiting and hiking Italy’s Dolomites. Learn the answers to these commonly asked questions about traveling in the Dolomites by using the link below!

• Hiking and Visiting the Dolomites – FAQs

Trip Logistics

How do i register.

Reserve your spot today! In the Trip Dates & Booking section of this page, the green and red dates are bookable online by simply clicking on the date, and blue dates must be booked through our customer service team for a variety of possible reasons. To email our customer service team, you can  click here  to get the ball rolling. Our adventure consultants will confirm availability, and if you’re ready to register we’ll email you a link to a registration profile. You’ll have 72 hours to complete your profile (and that of any dependents) and pay the deposit.

Feel free to call us for more info – we’re here 7 days a week!

Where Do We Meet?

We will meet you at Venice Marco Polo Airport in Venice on Day 1 (your flight needs to arrive before 2:30 PM). Our Alps communication team will be in contact approximately  45 days before your trip to coordinate your rendezvous and answer any last-minute questions you have.

Please Note: Transportation outside of planned group shuttles have additional costs and are not included in trip rates.

Click here to see a printable, downloadable trip information packet with more detailed guidance about flights, shuttles, recommended lodging and more.

Travel to Venice, Italy

Booking flights.

For this trip you will need to arrive in Venice, Italy on the day the trip begins, no later than 2:30 P.M. If you would like to rest more before beginning the trek, we recommend arriving a day early. A Wildland representative will rendezvous with you at the Venice airport on Day 1 at 3 P.M. and provide transportation to our first night’s accommodations. Departure flights can leave Venice anytime after 6 P.M. on day 7 of the itinerary.

Flights to and from Venice are the guest’s responsibility. Multiple airlines operate flights into Venice from many U.S. and European international airports. Some of the primary U.S. departure cities include Los Angeles, Phoenix, Denver, Newark, Baltimore, Washington DC, Boston, San Francisco, New York and Minneapolis. The duration of flights is 10-30 hours normally with one or two stops.

Pre and Post-trip On Request Lodging

We secure limited amounts of pre and post trip lodging in Venice as an optional add-on for guests of this trip. This lodging is on request, and is available on a first come, first serve basis. If interested, please reach out directly  to our team to check availability.

Safety Precautions

Your safety is our top priority. Our hiking tours are led by professional hiking guides, all of whom are wilderness-certified first responders or EMT’s, each with years of guiding and wilderness experience. Guides adhere to standardized risk management protocols in case of any potential or actual incident, and all tours carry an emergency communication device and comprehensive first-aid kit. Additionally we have a “24/7” system through which guides or guests can reach Wildland support personnel at any time.

In the interest of your safety, it’s important to refer to the  Center for Disease Control website  for up-to-date recommendations on immunizations before your trip.

Essential Eligibility Criteria

Essential Eligibility Criteria (“EEC”)  have been specifically identified to help you understand the skills and abilities necessary to participate on each Wildland trip, and they apply uniformly to all potential trip participants, irrespective of the presence or absence of any disability.

Once you identify a trip in which you may be interested, please carefully review the  EEC  and itinerary details. If after reviewing the EEC that apply to your desired trip, you determine you need an accommodation in order to meet the EEC, please  contact us  prior to registering to discuss your requested accommodation.

The EEC exist for your own safety and the safety and enjoyment of all participants. If you are unable to meet the EEC for the trip, with or without an accommodation, you are not eligible for that trip. If you register and arrive for a trip for which you do not meet the EEC, you will be disqualified from participation on the trip and will be dismissed or evacuated from the trip without a refund.

Our approach to international travel is to combine the best of two worlds: the dialed-in details, professionalism and consistency Wildland trips are known for; and the cultural immersion and intimate regional knowledge that only locals can provide. To excel with this approach, we vet and hire the best local guides, welcome them into the Wildland family and train them to meet our standard of excellence with every aspect of a trip. But along with managing logistics and safety, your guides will teach you about the area’s history and culture, and provide a level of familiarity and intimate detail only locals can.

Check out our  Meet Our Team  page for staff bios.

Guide Working Parameters

Guides are required to take 8 hours off each 24-hour period to sleep, recuperate, take personal/down time…etc. In addition, as part of the 8 hours off they must sleep/rest or be in their tents/rooms  uninterrupted  for a minimum of 5 hours each night. We ask guests to respect these requirements and to not interrupt guides’ off time and sleep time unless there is a true emergency.

Age Restrictions

Age restrictions on this trip are as follows:

• 12 and older to join scheduled tours (mixed groups)
• 5 and older to join private tours, with final approval and specific logistical requirements (such as porter or stock assist) determined on a case by case basis

Trip Insurance Requirements

Field evacuation, repatriation, and medical insurance is required on all Alps trips as a condition of partnership terms with our European vendors (field evacuation and repatriation minimum coverage is a combined $200,000 USD).

If you need to purchase field evacuation, repatriation, or medical insurance we recommend IMG/iTravelinsured. They are one of the world’s leading providers of travel insurance and policies meet all Alps requirements.

For information on the recommended IMG/iTravelinsured policies please  click here .

For even greater information, or if you simply prefer communicating with a real, live person, feel free to contact our exclusive agent Michael Bennett. Michael will help you identify the best product for your needs, and there is no cost associated with his assistance. You may contact him at:

Email: [email protected] US by Phone: 877-305-9083 Direct/International by Phone: 702-448-3664

If you already have the required insurance or wish to purchase from anyone other than IMG/iTravelinsured, we recommend careful consultation with the provider to ensure appropriate coverage. This is because many providers have a number of policy exclusions.

Weather in the Alps

The location of the Alps and their tremendous elevation variations lead to significant and sometimes unpredictable temperatures and weather patterns, both in different ranges and in a particular range itself. Due to the Alps’ location in central Europe, they are influenced by moist air off the Atlantic, cold polar air from northern Europe, fluctuating air masses; and warm Mediterranean air flows northward.

Due to these extraordinary forces acting on the Alps’ weather, we recommend following our clothing list closely (in your trip packet when you register), as guests are best served by being prepared for a broad range of possible temperatures and weather conditions.

The average temperatures and precipitation in Alps are:

• Accommodations

HOTEL VILLA ARGENTINA

Since 1910 Hotel Villa has been hosting adventurous visitors to the Italian Dolomites. Built from locally-sourced materials provided by the mountains (limestone and wood primarily), this 3-star lodge blends into the mountains while offering a cozy, comfortable experience.

Grand Hotel Misurina

This charming 4-star hotel overlooks the shores of Lake Misurina. Here, the reflection of the Tre Cime di Lavaredo can be enjoyed. Beautiful villages and mountains surround this pristine area where we spend two nights. With cozy rooms and a truly spectacular setting, this is a special place to spend a few nights in the Italian Alps!

* These exact accommodations are not guaranteed. In some instances alternative accommodations of similar quality and location may be used.

Trip Reviews

Average customer ratings:.

• 4.9 (9 reviews)
• Most recent

Katherine G

I had the best time on this trip.

This was an incredible trip! Everything was so well-planned and organized. I love Wildland trips because I’m able to relax and enjoy the best hikes, delicious food & great company knowing our guides will keep us all safe & having fun. Matthieu & Willy were excellent guides & are really fun to travel with. They accommodated everyone in our group on the hikes by occasionally splitting us into two groups and giving us the option to choose the level of difficulty we felt like taking on that day. The more challenging routes were so much fun and when we got to places on the trail that were narrow and steep with loose rocks that I would have been nervous to take on my own, Matthieu & Willy’s instruction along with their calm confidence took away my fear. Our meals together both in the restaurants & our mountain picnics were all so fun and delicious! Some other highlights were our clean, comfortable hotels and transportation, the dinner in Cortina d’Ampezzo with time to walk around & explore the town, the paddle boats on Lake Misurina, the beautiful sound of cowbells we sometimes encountered on the hikes, and of course our wonderful group! I made great new friends & had so many interesting, fun conversations with the amazing people in our group. I highly recommend traveling with Wildland, this trip in particular & definitely these guides. They make sure you see all of the best views, accomplish the most challenging, fun hikes, experience the food & culture and stay safe, comfortable, smiling & laughing the whole time!

Still savoring the trip

This was my 6th trip with Wildland. It again exceeded my expectations. The itenerary was well thought out. The food was beyond delicious. I cannot say enough wonderful things about my guides. Not only were they very nice people, I felt their attention to safety and group cohesiveness was excellent. I never worried about any details, they had it all under control. There were some very challenging hikes and they were always encouraging and helped us when needed. I cannot find anything that needed to be improved. I am still savoring the trip and almost ready to start planning the next one.

I can't wait to do my next adventure with Wildland!

I did this as a gift for my mom's 70th birthday...I couldn't think of a better way to spend time with her. The guides made this trip. Having two guides allowed for more aggressive and more leisurely, but challenging, route options to accommodate all parties. Matthew and Wilfred our guides could not be better ambassadors for Wildland - both technically and as awesome human beings. They made sure my mom was safe but challenged her to do things she didn't think she could do #gratitude. Because the trip was so well organized it felt like 2 weeks but was only 5 days - I never once had to think about anything logistically - they took care of everything. I can't wait to do my next adventure with Wildland!

See All Guest Reviews!

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3-day guided via ferrata tour in the Dolomites

A 3-day via ferrata adventure in Marmolada, the highest mountain in the Dolomites, together with an IFMGA mountain guide.

MOUNTAIN RANGES

Dolomite Mountains

OFFER PERIOD

FITNESS LEVEL

SKILL LEVEL

PAYMENT METHODS

Credit Card, Wire Transfer and more!

WHAT PEOPLE SAY

Based on 2 reviews

• Reach Marmolada, the tallest mountain in the Dolomites.
• Take a different via ferrata route each day.

Description

The Dolomites, a stunning mountain range in northern Italy, are the place where via ferratas were born. In this 3-day trip, we’ll take some of these protected climbing routes and reach Marmolada, ‘the queen of the Dolomites’.  

Rising up to 3343 m, Marmolada is the highest mountain in this range and has several peaks. Besides, it boasts the only glacier in the Dolomites, the Marmolada Glacier.

We’ll take different medium-level via ferrata routes each day. None of them are long, but there’s an option to make the trip easier the third day in case you’re too tired. We’ll also visit Marmolada Glacier .

Besides, we’ll spend the night in beautiful mountain huts ( Padon hut and Pian dei Fiacconi hut ) with stunning views of the Sella Group and Fedaia Lake.  

Would you like to join me on this exciting adventure in the highest peak in the Dolomites? Send a request to book this trip and let’s go for it!

If you’re looking for something shorter, we also offer 1-day Via Ferrata Programs in the Dolomites .

Price includes

- Guiding fee

Secure your spot with just 25% payment

48-hour free cancellation with 30-day advance booking

-Lifts: from Malga Ciapela to Padon Hut, and from Fedaia Lake to Pian dei Fiacconi Hut cost about 12 € per person per lift.

-You need to hire crampons and ice axes to ascent the Marmolada Glacier.

Meeting point

Is this trip suitable for beginners?

Yes, you can go on this trip if you don't have previous experience in via ferrata. But you have to be comfortable hiking several hours a day, and be prepared to some exposure to heights.

What are some recommended accommodations near our adventure location?

About the guide : E-S Adventure Guides

E-S Adventure Guides

Mountain Guide

Tomas and his team of IFMGA/UIMLA-certified mountain guides & leaders and rock climbing instructors (Anna, Andrea, Elis, Enrico, Ivan, Julia, Lucia, Marika, and Oreste) are some of the top outdoor adventure professionals in Italy.

Whether you wish to climb the Gran Paradiso or go on an exciting via ferrata in the Dolomites, among other amazing options, they will be able to show you the top spots and the ropes to ensure you have an unforgettable and safe adventure.

Tomas will be your main point of contact during the booking process and will be able to help you with all the questions you have in order to make sure you receive the best possible guiding service.

Pick one of the programs featured for E-S Adventure Guides Italy and start planning an awe-inspiring experience in the mountains!

Italian | English

Certificates

UIMLA | UIAGM | IFMGA

What people are saying about this trip

It. Was. So. Amazing. The trek was everything I hoped it would be and more. Enrico was a super guide - he was friendly, knowledgeable, helpful and I could tell he really loves sharing the Dolomites with people. He organized a fantastic trip - the huts we stayed in were amazing and the scenery was unbelievable.

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