The Dolomites are a UNESCO World Heritage mountain range in northern Italy, loved for hiking in summer and skiing in winter. Allow three to five days to see several valleys and lakes without rushing the mountain roads.
- Best time
- Late June–September for hiking; December–March for skiing
- Ideal stay
- 3–5 days
- Getting there
- Fly to Venice, Verona, Innsbruck or Bolzano; Cortina is roughly two hours from Venice by road
- Getting around
- A car is easiest; some valleys have summer buses and lifts
Top things to do in Dolomites
Lake Braies
Turquoise lake and the classic wooden rowing boats. Go at sunrise.
Tre Cime di Lavaredo
The most famous loop hike, around three iconic peaks.
Seceda and Val Gardena
Dramatic ridgelines reached by cable car.
Alpe di Siusi
Europe’s largest high-altitude meadow, ideal for easy walks.
Cortina d’Ampezzo
A stylish mountain town and base for ski and hiking.
Rifugio lunch
Stop at a mountain hut for polenta, canederli and strudel.
Sample itinerary
- Day 1: Lake Braies at sunrise and an easy lakeside walk.
- Day 2: Tre Cime di Lavaredo loop.
- Day 3: Seceda or Alpe di Siusi by cable car.
- Day 4: Cortina and the Passo Giau viewpoints.
Where to stay
Cortina d’Ampezzo
Classic resort town.
Val Gardena (Ortisei)
Great for hiking and lifts.
Alta Badia (Corvara)
Food-focused with ski access.
Bolzano
City base with transport.
What to eat
Canederli (dumplings), speck, spätzle, strudel and polenta.
Practical tips
- Weather changes quickly; start hikes early and carry layers.
- Check lift, trail and road openings before you go.
- Book mountain huts and parking in peak season.
- A rental car gives the most flexibility.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit the Dolomites?
Late June to September for hiking, and December to March for skiing.
Do I need a car in the Dolomites?
A car is the easiest option, although some valleys have summer buses.
Is the Dolomites better in summer or winter?
Summer for hiking and lakes; winter for skiing and snowy scenery. Both are excellent.
Plan your Dolomites trip
Build a day-by-day Italy route, then see it on the interactive map.
Open the trip builder See the map
