Also known as the Pale Mountains, the Dolomites are named for the carbonate rock from which they are formed. The range is in northeastern Italy and is part of the Southern Limestone Alps. Diverse natural beauty abounds here, and the main draw is an outdoor adventure within the stunning scenery. Any visitor to the area will be overwhelmed by the sheer amount of things to do in the Italian Dolomites.
An alpine paradise, the enchanting landscape is covered with snow-capped peaks, shimmering lakes, and pine forest that feels like stepping into an otherworldly serene setting. Enjoy all the best this area offers with these things to do in the Dolomites.
Where are the Dolomites?
The Dolomites are a mountain range located in northeastern Italy. In 2009 UNESCO declared the Italian Dolomites a World Heritage Site. They are well-known for their exceptional beauty and dramatic mountain peaks. The Dolomites span many regions including Veneto, Trentino, Sudtirol, and Friuli-Venezia Giulia.
The Italian and Austrian army front lines ran through the region during the First World War. The Dolomites have been disputed. To tourists, it might feel more like Austria than Italy at times. However, there are some beautiful aspects of both Austrian and Italian cultures here.
Remnants of the First World War are very apparent in the Dolomites. On some hikes, you’ll find open-air war museums, and the mountains have hundreds of “Via Ferrata” paths created during the war. The Dolomites are one of the most beautiful places we have ever seen, and we can’t wait to return year after year.
The Best Things to do in the Italian Dolomites
Lago Di Braies
Set in the Prags Dolomites in South Tyrol, Lago Di Braies is a pristine and picturesque alpine environment for a peaceful adventure in nature, aside from the other tourists flocking to see the scenery of course. It’s one of the most beautiful and famous lakes to visit in Europe, and although it’s busy, it’s still one of the best things to do in the Dolomites.
The crystal clear waters reflect the enchanting landscape perfectly on their surface, including the surrounding snow-capped peaks and towering evergreens.
Ancient folklore says that it’s a magical gateway to an underground kingdom or sunken treasures waiting to be discovered, and its unearthly charm makes this easy to believe. You can pop in and snap a perfect pic or take the time to wander the two-mile trail all around the stunning surroundings.
Alpe Di Siusi
Alpe Di Siusi is a beloved plateau in the Italian Dolomites and the highest alpine meadow in all of Europe. It’s located in South Tyrol, and it’s most known for ample skiing and hiking opportunities. There are 30 miles of slopes to soar down and 18 miles of cross-country trails to trek.
It’s a sunny paradise for outdoor sports in any season. It even boasts the biggest snow park in the region. The beautiful backdrop of Mount Sciallia here only adds to the spectacular space made for skiers, snowboards, hikers, and snowshoers from all over the world.
Tre Cime National Park
Translated to Three Peaks Park, this is a treasure trove full of natural wonders in the Dolomites. It’s truly one of the most beautiful places in Europe. If you can only do one thing in the Dolomites, it should be to head to Tre Cime.
There are plenty of hiking trails in the park, but one of the most popular is a 6.2 mile heavily trafficked loop that requires a moderate hiking skill level. It’s characterized by a collection of large and unusual mountain rock formations.
This refers mainly to Cadini di Misurina that resembles a set of needles, Monte Paterno that appears as a pyramid, and Croda Rosa which many see as an open rosebud.
The namesake, which has become the famous symbol of the Dolomites, is Tre Cime di Lavaredo, which looks like sharp teeth. There are many high peaks, over 70 in fact, canyons, and large boulders falling from the peaks at any given time. There’s plenty of rare native flora and fauna to spot on your enchanting hike or climbing adventure.
Pack a lunch, or hike to the famous Rifugios and have a glass of wine and schnitzel while enjoying the mountain views. Our favorite rRifugio in the Dolomites is, without a doubt Rifugio Auronzo.
Via Ferrata Innerkofler/De Luca
If you are already heading into Tre Cime one of the best things to do in the Dolomites is rent some via ferrata equipment (or consider adding it to your Europe packing list) and enjoy the epic via ferrata Innerkofler. It’s a fantastic beginner via ferrata that is thrilling and provides the most stunning views of the three peaks at the summit.
This ferrata starts near Rifugio Locatelli and takes you to the summit of Monte Paterno. This via ferrata is child-friendly with only a few difficult sections. The beginning of the via ferrata takes you through some very interesting and almost eerie old war bunkers, so bring a headlamp as it’s very dark!
It will take a couple of hours to complete and was one of our favorite via ferratas in the Dolomites!
Lago di Carezza
Lago di Carezza is a small alpine lake nestled in the Dolomites is a delight to visit. It’s known for its striking and vibrant color, as well as the sweeping vistas over the majestic Latemar Mountains.
It’s commonly called rainbow lake, named after a local legend you’ll learn all about, and it has been deemed one of the most beautiful bodies of water in the world. It’s set almost 5,000 feet above sea level.
Hiking and mountain biking are both popular pastimes in the area, aside from attempts to get that Instaworthy shot of course. A loop around the lake is short and flat, so easy to navigate to enjoy the beauty from every angle possible.
Seceda Ridgeline
Hiking the Seceda Ridgeline is one of the most exciting things to do in the Dolomites. It takes about a few hours to complete depending on which trail you choose. It’s located in the Val Gardena region and is easily accessible by gondola and cable car.
The highest point in the area at an altitude of 8,000 feet, it’s been deemed a medium level of difficulty, with a few steep sections of the trail.
The viewpoints along the well-maintained path are worth it, and it’s a great way to spend a day admiring the breathtaking scenery. The Baita Troier Hutte is the best place to stop to enjoy a bite and a beverage with a spectacular backdrop and some adorable alpaca friends to meet.
Passo Giau
The Passo Giau is located in the Belluno Province in Italy. It serves to connect Cortina d’Ampezzo with Colle Santa Lucia and Selva di Cadore. This high mountain pass is about as picturesque as it gets, set in the middle of an expansive pasture at the foot of several formidable peaks.
It’s easy to see why it’s the most popular of all the Dolomite passes, looking out over the gorgeous landscape from a unique vantage point of 7,703 feet high. Get here early to get the view without all the cars and other tourists. There are several hikes that start from here, and the surroundings are stunning in any season.
Via Ferrata Averau
Near Passo Giau is a thrilling via ferrata that gives fantastic views from the summit. Via Ferrata Averau is a beginner friendly via ferrata with only 230 meters to the summit. There are multiple ways to access this via ferrata.
We found one of the easiest was to hike or take the chairlift to the Averau hut where you will begin this via ferrata. This fun adventure takes between 2-3 hours and only has a few slightly exposed points.
At the summit, you’ll get the most amazing views of Rifugio Nuvolau, Ra Gusela and Mount Pelmo. This one is a busy one! So get here early in the morning to beat the crowds.
Val Di Funes
Whether you are backpacking Europe or on your lush honeymoon, everyone should make seeing Val Di Funes a priority. This little captivating corner of Italy is an idyllic escape everyone will enjoy. It’s become famous for a few of its charming churches, but has so much more to offer. Rolling green meadows and dramatic rocky spires like the iconic Odle peaks, create an idyllic setting to explore.
It feels like something straight out of a storybook, with miles of unspoiled forest stretching out as far as the eye can see. It can be toured by foot easily all year round for fantastical views from either easy or arduous hikes.
Ski at Cortina D Ampezzo
A ski resort in northern Italy, the Cortina D Ampezzo was actually the site for many winter Olympic events way back in 1956. It’s part of the Dolomiti Superski area, including the Falzarego Pass. It’s visited for its beauty, heritage, and endless opportunity for colder outdoor sports. It’s one of our favorite places to visit in Europe in winter.
It’s hard to beat this gem if you’re looking to soar down some snowy slopes, as there’s a reason it’s called the Queen of the Dolomites. There’s an ice stadium, bobsleigh run, and snow park alongside an absurd amount of state-of-the-art runs.
In the summer, Cortina is an awesome town to walk around, eat in, and browse all the high end shops. Cortina is also one of the best places to base yourself for exploring the Dolomites.
Lago Sorapis
Deep within the Sorapiss mountain range of the Dolomites, lies a breathtaking lake. Lago Sorapiss is 6,316 feet above sea level, and it can only be accessed by foot or by helicopter.
It’s mainly known for its distinctive bright colors ranging from light blue to turquoise. It’s created by the meltwaters from the nearby glacier of the same name, and the hue actually comes from its dust.
The trail to arrive is spectacular, with varied terrain and plenty of vistas along the way. Some sections are easy to navigate and other steep sections are decked out with metal ladders and cables. It’s one of the most popular hikes in the Dolomites, and if you hit the trail on a beautiful summer day like we did, you’ll likely be hiking with a thousand other people. Consider getting an early sunrise start to beat the crowds.
Lago Federa
Lago Federa is a quaint mountain lake that’s an integral part of one of the most famous hikes in the Dolomites called Crodo de Lago. As such, it’s recommended to do the full eight mile loop for the entire experience. It’s exceptionally breathtaking in the autumn season for its fantastical foliage.
The difficulty is a moderate level with an elevation of 2,500 feet. You’ll cross cute bridges, meander through dense forest, and take in some dramatic panoramas.
Cinque Torri
This is a stunning rock formation made up of five towers, each with its own name. The tallest reaches an altitude of 7,746 feet. It has a rich history as well, as the site of many shelters for the Italian army built during WWI. Today many have been restored and made into open air museums.
It’s definitely a hotspot for climbing in the area, with a wide array of routes of varying grades all up and down the individual towers. In the winter season it’s also become popular for skiing in recent years. A traditional rifugio lodge can be found at the feet of these rugged peaks for a peaceful and picturesque vantage point.
There are great hiking and trail opportunities all around Cinque Torre, and you’ll want at least half a day here to explore!
Vajolet Towers Trail
The Vajolet Towers consist of six separate peaks towering above the alpine landscape like jagged teeth and are set in South Tyrol. So much so that centuries-old folklore maintains it’s the open mouth of a sleeping giant. It’s a happening spot of daredevils who come to climb and highline.
Even the trail can be a bit challenging so it’s not for faint of heart hikers. It’s often less crowded than some of the other Dolomite destinations. There are three routes to choose from, all of which will take the better part of a day.
Enjoy South Tyrol Cuisine
If you work up an appetite in South Tyrol, as you’re likely to do, be sure to stop in at any number of the quintessential eateries around town. This region is known for its many delicious delicacies from speck dumplings to apple strudel.
Local and fresh ingredients are used to create culinary masterpieces with flavor inspirations from Italy and Austria and recipes passed down over hundreds of years. Get ready to treat your tastebuds and try some of everything such as Knodel, Schlutzkrapfen, Marende, Baurengrostel, and even Tiroler Pizza.
Via Ferrata Torre Di Toblin
This is a demanding via ferrata route that has plenty of pay off in the north face of Torre Di Toblin. Also known as the delle Scalette, it’s half ladders and half steel ropes with a total elevation gain of 1,800 feet.
It’s short, super steep, and extremely exposed. It’s best for those with a few via ferratas under their belt as some sections will have you trembling. It was my first “moderate” via ferrata in the Dolomites, and I couldn’t believe how amazing it was!
Arm strength and an ability to deal with heights is essential, and it’s a great way to practice for more difficult via ferratas. It was also once used as an outpost for Austrian soldiers during WWI.
Lagazuoi Tunnels
The Lagazuoi Tunnels are a moderately trafficked and moderately difficult out and back trail that’s 3.8 miles long. It’s located very close to Cortina d’Ampezzo, and is famous for its wondrous fields of wildflowers. It’s accessible year-round, and is not your average via ferrata. It runs inside a mountain and is entirely equipped with cables.
It’s a well-preserved and even educational route where you can learn about the interesting history of the network of tunnels. There’s a total elevation gain of 2,200 feet.
Lago Limedes
For a quick and easy outing, a visit to Lago Limedes near the Falzarego Pass is a perfectly picturesque setting in the Dolomite Mountains. If you’re looking for an outdoor excursion that doesn’t require as much time or skill, it offers all the iconic scenery of the area. If you’re hoping for more of a challenge it’s also quite simple to combine this trail with another hike in the area.
It’s just a little over a mile round trip, and offers some truly jaw-dropping vistas of the Rifugio col Gallina region, with iconic peaks of the range reflected in the calm and clear waters.
Lago Antorno
This stop comes highly recommended by any adventurers in the Dolomites area. It’s a small mountain lake, but offers an ideal setting for those picture perfect shots. The sunset view is particularly captivating.
There’s a trail that traverses right around the entire body of water and it overlooks the Tre Cime di Lavaredo. It provides a very relaxing respite in the idyllic scenery at any time of the year that you won’t soon forget.
Gardena Pass
Set in South Tyrol, the Gardena Pass is an iconic fixture of the outdoor enthusiast scene in the Dolomites. The elevation is just over 7,000 feet above sea level, and it connects Val Gardena to Val Badia. You can drive through or go by foot, but either way the diverse terrain is sure to surprise and delight.
There are also plenty of accommodations right along the pass for visitors to stop and stay awhile, soaking up all of the spectacular environment.
Lago di Dobbiaco / Toblacher See
Toblah is located in Alta Pusteria of South Tyrol, and Toblacher See is a tiny lake with a big and beautiful impact. It’s a great choice if you’re hoping to avoid the crowds, as it’s a bit off the beaten tourist path. It’s right off the main road which makes it super accessible as well.
It boasts turquoise waters surrounded by verdant forest and plenty of dramatic peaks in the distance. The altitude is just over 4,000 feet, and it even offers several activities including swimming, paddle boats, dining, and hiking.
Lago di Landro
A hidden gem of the Dolomites, Lago di Landro is the perfect alpine paradise. It’s one of the best spots around to pack a picnic and bask in the beauty with a bite to eat.
Though it’s on the smaller side, the mountains reflecting in the crystalline waters is a mesmerizing sight to behold. There’s a cute cafe and a few restaurants, plus adorable activities like boat rides are available. There are plenty of trails on either side of the valley for a variety of skill levels that can be explored here as well.
Madonna Di Campiglio
One of the best things to do in the Dolomites is go skiing or snowboarding. This is the jewel of the ski scene in the Trentino region, and one of the best places to visit in Northern Italy. It’s a well-known resort that is famous for hosting many Italians looking for solid skiing, dining, and relaxation in a very posh environment.
In fact, it still holds on to its claim to fame as the summer vacation spot of Austrian Royalty and Princess Sissi. The town is a beautiful little gem set at the base of the Dolomites and has all the charm of a mountain town.
The town is nearly car-free and it’s easy to take an evening stroll after a day on the slopes. We spent our evenings window shopping while checking out the 19th-century architecture with a cappuccino in hand. Charming wooden homes line the streets at the foot of the Dolomites. It is easy to see why the resort town is well cherished in Northern Italy.
When it comes to the pistes on the mountain they are well maintained and groomed daily. With tremendous weather and recent snowfall we experienced the mountains at their peak. Our days were filled with sunshine and fresh lines that had perfect packed powder conditions.
When is the Best Time to Visit the Dolomites?
If your goal is to ski in the Dolomites, the best time to visit would be between December and March. This is when areas like the Dolomiti Superski see significant snowfall and walking around towns like Cortina is like walking through a winter dream.
However if you want to hike, tackle via ferratas, or enjoy the bright blue lakes of the Dolomites the best time to visit is between June and September, this is also the best time to visit Italy in general.
In June, there will likely still be some snow on hiking routes, and July and August are extremely busy and can see high temperatures. This time is likely when you will see the highest prices on accommodation too, and it’s essential to book well in advance.
September and October are cooler, and if you get lucky, you’ll get the most beautiful fall colors on your hikes!
How to Get Around the Dolomites?
While there are bus networks that will connect you to some sights, you’ll need a car to make the most out of your time in the Dolomites.
Renting a car in Italy is fairly straightforward and if you rent in cities like Milan or Bolzano, rates will be more affordable. We rented our car in Munich for an excellent rate and used that to drive all around the Alps.
Things to do in the Italian Dolomites Map
What to Pack for the Dolomites?
Before thinking about things to do in the Italian Dolomites consider your packing list. Hiking and outdoor clothes for the daytime, and trendy clothes if you plan on hanging out in the town of Cortina in the evening. At the very least, you’ll need hiking shoes, a good hiking rain jacket, an insulator, and hiking pants. For easy exploring and popping into an Italian cafe you can never go wrong with a black shirt and chinos.
Oh and when I say rain jacket I mean a good rain jacket and even possibly rain pants. We visited the Dolomites in August and it rained almost every afternoon. After one or two rain showers, I found out mid day thunderstorms are very common.
If you want to enjoy the via ferratas it may be worth buying your own equipment depending on how many you want to do. We bought our harness and via ferrata clips at an outdoor store in Germany, and this saved us from having to rent equipment for each via ferrata we wanted to tackle.
How Long Should You Spend in the Italian Dolomites?
We stayed for one week in Cortina in the summer, and three nights in the winter in Madonna Di Campiglio. I barely feel like we have scratched the surface of what the Dolomites offer. After our week, we tried desperately to extend our trip, but being peak summer in the Dolomites, it was tough to find anything last minute. Book your accommodation in advance here – trust me!
One week will give you a taste of the Dolomites, but if you can extend it to two weeks, I don’t think you will regret it! It’s impossible to see everything unless you plan on moving to the area, so no matter how much time you have, determine what sights are most interesting and focus on those.
Italian Dolomites Weather
The weather in this region can vary drastically depending on the time of year and altitude.
In general, summers in the Dolomites are mild, with average temperatures ranging from 15-25°C (59-77°F) in the valleys, and cooler temperatures at higher elevations. The weather is generally sunny and dry, although thunderstorms often occur in the afternoons. We were in the Dolomites for 8 days, and it rained 7 of those days in the middle of the afternoon – like clockwork!
Winters in the Dolomites are cold and snowy, with average temperatures ranging from -6 to 4°C (21-39°F) in the valleys, and much colder temperatures at higher elevations. Snowfall is common and heavy, especially in the higher elevations, making the Dolomites a popular destination for winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding.
Overall, the Dolomites can be a pleasant destination year-round, but visitors should be prepared for weather changes and pack accordingly, especially if planning to hike or engage in outdoor activities. As with any mountain destination, layers are key.
The Best Places to Eat in the Italian Dolomites
The Dolomites region has a rich culinary tradition, and there are many excellent restaurants to choose from. A few of the best are:
- St. Hubertus, San Cassiano: A Michelin-starred restaurant that offers an innovative take on traditional South Tyrolean cuisine, located inside the Rosa Alpina Hotel & Spa it is known for its impeccable service and beautiful mountain views.
- Alpenroyal Grand Hotel Restaurant, Selva di Val Gardena: This restaurant is known for its exceptional service and elegant atmosphere, with a menu that features a mix of traditional and contemporary Italian dishes, and the wine list is extensive.
- Ristorante Ustaria Posta, San Cassiano: A family-owned restaurant that serves classic South Tyrolean dishes using locally sourced ingredients.
- Stua de Michil, Corvara: La Stüa de Michil is a cozy restaurant decorated with unique objects that adorn the wood-paneled walls, nestled between two meticulously restored 17th-century Stuben. The culinary creativity of our chef, Simone Cantafio, brings together a fusion of flavors and colors, blending East and West at the heart of the dining experience.
The Best Places to Stay in the Italian Dolomites
Plan For Your Trip
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READ MORE ITALY TRAVEL TIPS
I hope you enjoyed this guide on what to do in the Dolomites! Hopefully, you found it useful. Here are a few relevant articles for more travel around Italy.
