Places to Visit in the Dolomites: 20 Unmissable Places to Visit in the Dolomites
The Dolomites have completely stolen my heart. These jagged limestone peaks in northeastern Italy offer some of the most dramatic mountain scenery I’ve ever witnessed. Over the past few years, I’ve explored countless trails, driven hair-raising mountain passes, and discovered hidden valleys that took my breath away.
In this comprehensive guide, I’m sharing the 20 most unmissable places to visit in the Dolomites. Whether you’re an experienced hiker, a casual walker, or someone who prefers scenic drives, there’s something here for everyone.
I’ve organized this guide into four sections to help you plan your perfect Dolomites adventure: iconic hikes and viewpoints, stunning mountain passes and drives, charming towns and valleys, and unique experiences you won’t find anywhere else.
Iconic Hikes and Mountain Viewpoints
1. Tre Cime di Lavaredo (Three Peaks)
The Tre Cime di Lavaredo are arguably the most photographed peaks in the Dolomites, and for good reason. These three distinctive limestone towers rise dramatically against the sky, creating one of the most iconic silhouettes in the Alps.
I hiked the circular trail around the Tre Cime on a crisp September morning, and it remains one of my favorite experiences in the mountains. The 9.5 km loop takes about 3-4 hours and offers constantly changing perspectives of the peaks.
Getting There: Drive to Rifugio Auronzo (€30 toll road from mid-July to mid-September, or free if you arrive before 7 AM or after 5 PM). From Cortina d’Ampezzo, it’s about a 45-minute drive.
Best Time to Visit: July to September for hiking. The road is typically open from June to October, weather permitting.
Difficulty: Easy to moderate. The trail is well-maintained, though there are some uphill sections.
My Tip: Start early to avoid crowds and catch the sunrise illuminating the eastern faces of the peaks. The golden light at dawn is absolutely magical.
2. Seceda Ridge
Seceda is one of the most surreal landscapes I’ve encountered in the Dolomites. The ridge features rolling green meadows that suddenly drop away into sheer cliffs, with the jagged peaks of the Geisler range dominating the view.
The easiest way to reach Seceda is via cable car from Ortisei in Val Gardena. Within minutes, you’re transported from the valley floor to 2,500 meters, where the views are nothing short of spectacular.
Getting There: Take the Seceda cable car from Ortisei (runs daily from 8 AM, €23 return). The journey takes about 15 minutes with one change at Col Raiser.
What to Do: Walk along the ridge (Path 2) toward the famous curved slope that appears in countless Instagram photos. The walk is easy and takes about 30 minutes one way.
Best Time: June to September, though early morning or late afternoon provides the best light for photography.
My Experience: I spent an entire afternoon here, walking the ridge trails and simply sitting on the grass, mesmerized by the view. Bring a picnic and plan to stay a while.
3. Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Alm)
At over 50 square kilometers, Alpe di Siusi is Europe’s largest high-altitude Alpine meadow. The sweeping grasslands, dotted with traditional huts and framed by the distinctive peaks of Sassolungo and Sasso Piatto, feel almost dreamlike.
I’ve visited Alpe di Siusi multiple times, and it never disappoints. Unlike some of the more dramatic hiking destinations, this area offers gentle walks suitable for all fitness levels.
Getting There: Cable car from Siusi/Seis (€16 return) or Ortisei. In summer, private cars are restricted from 9 AM to 5 PM, so plan accordingly or use the cable car.
Activities: Countless hiking trails of varying difficulty, mountain biking, and simply wandering the meadows. I recommend the walk to Rifugio Bolzano beneath Sasso Piatto (2-3 hours one way).
Best Time: June to September for hiking. The meadows are covered in wildflowers in June and July.
Where to Eat: Stop at Engelralm (Malga Schgaguler) for traditional South Tyrolean dishes. The speck and dumplings are incredible.
4. Lago di Braies (Pragser Wildsee)
Lago di Braies is the most famous lake in the Dolomites, known for its emerald-green waters and the dramatic Croda del Becco mountain reflected in its surface. It gained even more fame as a filming location for the Italian TV series “A Summer in Tyrol.”
I’ll be honest – this lake is heavily touristed, especially in summer. But visit at sunrise or sunset, and you’ll understand why it’s so beloved.
Getting There: About 1 hour from Cortina d’Ampezzo or Bolzano. From mid-June to early October, the access road is closed between 9:30 AM and 4 PM, and you must reserve a parking spot online (€10) or arrive outside these hours.
What to Do: Walk the easy 3.5 km circuit around the lake (1-1.5 hours). Rent a rowboat for a different perspective (€25 for 30 minutes).
My Tip: Arrive before 7 AM to beat the crowds and catch the magical morning light. The walk around the lake in near-silence, with mist rising from the water, is unforgettable.
5. Cinque Torri (Five Towers)
The Cinque Torri are five distinct rock towers that served as Italian defensive positions during World War I. Today, they’re one of the most accessible and rewarding destinations in the Dolomites.
I love this area because you can easily walk among the towers, explore the WWI trenches and tunnels, and enjoy spectacular views toward the Tofane peaks and Cortina basin.
Getting There: From Cortina d’Ampezzo, drive to Passo Falzarego (20 minutes). Take the cable car up to Rifugio Scoiattoli (€11 return), or hike up (about 45 minutes).
Hiking: From the cable car station, it’s a gentle 15-minute walk to the towers. For a longer hike, continue on the WWI trail (Path 439) which winds through trenches and fortifications.
Best Time: June to September. The area is also accessible in winter for skiing and snowshoeing.
Historical Note: Bring a headlamp to explore some of the tunnels. Information boards throughout explain the area’s WWI history.
6. Cadini di Misurina
The Cadini di Misurina are lesser-known than the Tre Cime but equally stunning. These needle-like spires create a dramatic skyline, and the hike to see them up close is one of my favorites in the Dolomites.
The trail takes you to Rifugio Fonda Savio, perched in a rocky bowl directly beneath the Cadini towers. The setting is wild and remote, making you feel like you’ve discovered something few others have seen.
Start/Finish: Rifugio Auronzo (same starting point as Tre Cime)
Distance: 12 km round trip
Duration: 4-5 hours
Elevation Gain: 500 meters
Difficulty: Moderate
Trail: Take Path 101 from Rifugio Auronzo, heading southeast. The well-marked trail climbs steadily through rocky terrain before descending slightly to Rifugio Fonda Savio (2,367m).
My Experience: I combined this with the Tre Cime loop on a long day. While the Tre Cime were packed with tourists, I encountered only a handful of hikers on the Cadini trail. The views of these towering spires from the rifugio are absolutely worth the effort.
7. Lagazuoi and the WWI Tunnels
Mount Lagazuoi offers some of the most spectacular panoramic views in the Dolomites, combined with fascinating World War I history. Italian and Austrian forces fought here between 1915-1917, and you can still explore the tunnels they carved through the mountain.
I found this to be one of the most unique experiences in the Dolomites – combining stunning mountain scenery with tangible history.
Getting There: Cable car from Passo Falzarego (€18 return, runs 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, July to September). The cable car delivers you to 2,732 meters in minutes.
Activities:
- Walk the summit area for 360-degree views
- Explore the WWI tunnels (bring a headlamp – essential!)
- Hike down via the tunnel trail (Path 20, about 2 hours, requires headlamp)
- Have lunch at Rifugio Lagazuoi with arguably the best terrace view in the Dolomites
Best Time: July to September
My Tip: The tunnel hike down is incredible but involves squeezing through narrow passages and climbing steep ladders. It’s not for the claustrophobic, but it’s an adventure you won’t forget.
Spectacular Mountain Passes and Scenic Drives
8. Passo Giau
If I had to choose just one mountain pass to drive in the Dolomites, it would be Passo Giau. The road winds through one of the most stunning landscapes imaginable, with the distinctive peak of Ra Gusela dominating the southern approach.
I’ve driven this pass at least a dozen times, and I still stop at every viewpoint to take in the scenery.
Route: The pass connects Cortina d’Ampezzo with Selva di Cadore and Alleghe. The road climbs to 2,236 meters, making it one of the highest paved passes in the Dolomites.
Best Stops:
- The southern viewpoint with Ra Gusela framing the road
- Rifugio Giau (2,236m) at the pass summit – perfect for a coffee break
- Any of the numerous pullouts along the route
Best Time: June to October when the pass is usually snow-free. Early morning or late afternoon provides the best light.
Photography Tip: The view from the southern side, looking toward Ra Gusela with the winding road in the foreground, is iconic. Get there at sunrise for empty roads and golden light.
Winter Note: The pass is closed in winter (usually November to May).
9. Sella Ronda
The Sella Ronda is a circular route around the massive Sella massif, passing through four mountain passes: Passo Sella, Passo Gardena, Passo Campolongo, and Passo Pordoi. It’s one of the most famous drives (or ski circuits in winter) in the Dolomites.
I completed the circuit on a perfect June day, stopping frequently to hike short trails and enjoy rifugio lunches. The entire route is about 55 km and passes through all four Ladin valleys.
The Route: Start from any point on the circuit. I recommend starting in Canazei and going clockwise: Passo Pordoi → Arabba → Passo Campolongo → Corvara → Passo Gardena → Selva di Val Gardena → Passo Sella → back to Canazei.
Time Required: 2-3 hours driving without stops, but plan a full day to properly enjoy it with hiking breaks and meals.
Highlights:
- Passo Pordoi (2,239m): Take the cable car to Sass Pordoi (2,950m) for incredible views
- Passo Gardena: Walk to the summit of Piz da Lec for panoramic views
- Passo Sella: Stop at the viewpoint overlooking Sassolungo
Best Time: June to September for driving and hiking. In winter, it’s a famous ski circuit.
10. Passo Valparola
Passo Valparola connects the Badia Valley with Cortina and runs parallel to the better-known Passo Falzarego. While less dramatic than some other passes, it offers consistently beautiful views and important WWI history.
Route: The pass reaches 2,192 meters and connects La Villa/Corvara with Cortina d’Ampezzo.
What to See:
- Forte Tre Sassi (Museo della Grande Guerra) – a restored Austrian fort housing a WWI museum (€6 entry)
- Multiple viewpoints of the Lagazuoi and Tofane peaks
- Hiking trails connecting to the Valparola lakes
My Experience: I stopped at the fort museum and spent a fascinating hour learning about the mountain warfare that took place here. The views from the fort terrace are also spectacular.
Best Time: June to October
11. Passo Gardena (Grödner Joch)
Passo Gardena connects Val Gardena with the Badia Valley and offers some of the most photogenic views in the Dolomites. The distinctive peaks of Sassongher and the Sella massif create a dramatic backdrop.
Route: The pass tops out at 2,121 meters. The Val Gardena side features steeper switchbacks with amazing views.
Best Stop: Park at the pass summit and walk 15 minutes to Piz da Lec for 360-degree views. This short hike is absolutely worth it – you’ll see Sella, Marmolada, and countless other peaks.
Rifugio Tip: Stop at Rifugio Jimmy just below the pass on the Badia side. The terrace has wonderful views of Sassongher.
My Favorite Time: Late afternoon when the sun illuminates the Sella massif in warm tones.
12. Passo Pordoi
At 2,239 meters, Passo Pordoi is the highest paved pass in the Dolomites and one of the most spectacular. The stark, almost lunar landscape near the summit contrasts beautifully with the green valleys below.
Getting There: The pass connects Arabba with Canazei and is part of the Sella Ronda circuit.
Must-Do: Take the cable car from the pass to Sass Pordoi (2,950m). The Terrazza delle Dolomiti (Terrace of the Dolomites) offers absolutely breathtaking 360-degree views. On clear days, you can see peaks as far as the Austrian Alps.
Cable Car: €19 return, operates daily from mid-June to late September (8:30 AM to 5 PM)
Hiking: From Sass Pordoi, you can hike to Rifugio Boè (1 hour) or walk the gentle summit trails.
My Experience: I spent two hours at the top, slowly walking the entire terrace and identifying peaks with my map. The Marmolada glacier dominates the southern view, while the Sella massif rises to the north.
Where to Eat: The rifugio at the cable car summit serves good food, but I prefer Rifugio Maria at the pass itself for more authentic cuisine.
Charming Towns and Beautiful Valleys
13. Cortina d’Ampezzo
Cortina is the queen of the Dolomites, a glamorous resort town that hosted the 1956 Winter Olympics and will host events during the 2026 Olympics. But beyond the designer shops and upscale restaurants, Cortina offers easy access to some of the best hiking and scenery in the Dolomites.
What to See:
- Walk Corso Italia, the elegant pedestrian main street
- Visit the Olympic ice stadium and ski jump
- Take the cable car to Rifugio Faloria for sunset views
- Browse the weekly market (Tuesday and Friday mornings)
Where to Stay: I stayed at the southern end of town, which was quieter but still within easy walking distance of the center.
Hiking Access: Cortina is the perfect base for accessing Tre Cime, Cinque Torri, Lago di Sorapis, and numerous other trails.
Best Time: Year-round destination. Summer for hiking, winter for skiing, though spring and autumn are quieter and more affordable.
My Favorite Spot: Grab an aperitivo at one of the cafes along Corso Italia and people-watch as the evening passeggiata begins.
14. Val Gardena (Gröden Valley)
Val Gardena is one of the most beautiful valleys in the Dolomites, surrounded by the Sella massif, Sassolungo, and Puez-Odle peaks. The valley is also the heart of Ladin culture, where you’ll still hear this ancient Romance language spoken.
Main Towns:
- Ortisei (St. Ulrich): The main town, known for woodcarving traditions
- Santa Cristina: Smaller and quieter
- Selva di Val Gardena: A ski resort village at the valley’s head
What to Do:
- Take the cable car from Ortisei to Seceda
- Drive to Passo Sella for hiking
- Visit a woodcarving workshop in Ortisei
- Hike in the Puez-Odle Nature Park
Where to Eat: I had an incredible meal at Mauriz in Selva di Val Gardena – modern takes on traditional dishes with a Michelin-recommended chef.
My Tip: Val Gardena is busier than some other valleys due to its excellent ski resorts, but the scenery more than compensates. Visit in June or September for fewer crowds.
15. Val di Fassa (Fassa Valley)
Val di Fassa is another stunning Ladin valley that stretches from Canazei to Moena. Dominated by the Sella and Marmolada massifs, it’s less glamorous than Cortina but equally beautiful.
Main Towns:
- Canazei: The main resort town, busy in both summer and winter
- Campitello di Fassa: Quieter, with access to Col Rodella
- Vigo di Fassa: Gateway to the Catinaccio massif
- Moena: The southernmost town, charming and traditional
Activities:
- Hike in the Catinaccio from Vigo di Fassa
- Take the cable car from Canazei to Col dei Rossi
- Visit Passo Pordoi and Passo Sella
- Walk the town promenades in the evening
Local Food: Try strangolapreti (spinach and bread dumplings) – a local specialty that’s absolutely delicious.
My Experience: I based myself in Canazei for a week and found it ideal for accessing numerous hiking trails and mountain passes. The town has a good range of restaurants and shops without feeling too touristy.
16. Ortisei (St. Ulrich)
Ortisei deserves special mention beyond Val Gardena because of its unique character. This town is the capital of Ladin culture and famous throughout Italy for its woodcarving tradition.
What Makes It Special:
- Walk the pedestrianized town center with beautiful buildings and mountain views
- Visit woodcarving workshops and galleries
- Easy cable car access to Seceda and Alpe di Siusi
- More affordable than Cortina while offering similar access to great hiking
Shopping: The town has numerous shops selling locally carved wooden sculptures, religious art, and toys. Quality varies, so look for the “Made in Val Gardena” certification.
Where to Stay: I stayed at a family-run garni (B&B) just outside the center. The hosts were warm and helpful, and breakfast featured excellent local products.
Evening Activity: Join the locals for the evening passeggiata along the main pedestrian street, then grab dinner at one of the many excellent restaurants.
17. Lago di Carezza (Karersee)
Lago di Carezza is a small but incredibly picturesque lake at the foot of the Latemar massif. The emerald and blue waters, surrounded by forest with the jagged Latemar peaks reflected in the surface, create a scene straight out of a fairytale.
Getting There: The lake is just off the SS241 between Bolzano and Canazei, about 25 km from Bolzano. There’s a large parking lot (€8 for 2 hours, €12 for the day).
What to Do: Walk the short path around the lake (20 minutes). Swimming is not permitted as it’s a protected natural area.
Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer tourists. The lake is accessible year-round, and it’s beautiful in winter surrounded by snow.
Legend: According to Ladin legend, a wizard created a rainbow to enchant a mermaid who lived in the lake. When she rejected him, he shattered the rainbow into the lake, giving it its distinctive colors.
My Tip: This is a quick stop rather than an all-day destination, but it’s absolutely worth including in your itinerary. I spent about an hour here, walking slowly around the lake and enjoying the tranquility.
Unique Experiences and Hidden Gems
18. Marmolada and the Great War Museum
Marmolada, at 3,343 meters, is the highest peak in the Dolomites and home to the only glacier in the range. The mountain holds deep significance as a major front during World War I, and you can visit the fascinating Great War Museum carved into the rock at 3,000 meters.
Getting There: Drive to Malga Ciapela at the base of the north face. Take the cable car to the summit in two stages (€34 return, operates year-round).
What to See:
- The Museum: Located at Punta Serauta (2,950m), this museum is built into the mountain itself, displaying artifacts, photographs, and stories from the mountain warfare (included in cable car ticket)
- The Glacier: Walk onto the Marmolada glacier from the top station (3,269m)
- Views: On clear days, you can see as far as Venice
Hiking: Several hiking trails start from the cable car stations. The route to Rifugio Pian dei Fiacconi is popular but requires proper equipment.
My Experience: The museum was incredibly moving, showing the harsh conditions soldiers endured at these altitudes. Standing on the glacier afterward, with views across the entire Dolomites, was unforgettable.
Important: The glacier is melting rapidly due to climate change. Sadly, it may disappear within the next few decades.
19. Lago di Sorapis
Lago di Sorapis has become Instagram-famous in recent years, and for good reason. The turquoise-blue water, caused by dissolved minerals, is unlike anything else in the Dolomites. The color is so vivid it almost doesn’t look real.
Hiking Details:
- Start: Passo Tre Croci, between Cortina and Misurina
- Distance: 11 km round trip
- Duration: 3-4 hours
- Elevation Gain: 200m down, 200m up (you descend to the lake first, which means a tough climb back up)
- Difficulty: Moderate
The Trail: The path (Trail 215) is well-maintained but includes some exposed sections with cables. It’s not technically difficult, but caution is needed, especially when wet.
My Experience: I hiked here in early August, and the trail was busy. Despite the crowds, standing at the lake’s shore with the towering peaks of Sorapis reflected in that impossible blue water was magical. The color is even more vivid in person than in photos.
Important Tips:
- Start early (before 8 AM) to avoid crowds, especially in July and August
- The trail is often muddy, so wear proper hiking boots
- Bring plenty of water – there are no rifugios on the route
- The best views are from the far end of the lake
20. Val di Funes (Villnöss)
I’m ending this list with Val di Funes because it encapsulates everything magical about the Dolomites. This peaceful valley, with the iconic church of Santa Maddalena set against the jagged peaks of the Odle group, is one of the most photographed scenes in the region.
Getting There: From Bolzano, drive toward Bressanone/Brixen, then follow signs to Val di Funes (about 1 hour total).
What to See:
- Santa Maddalena (St. Magdalena): The iconic white church with the Odle peaks behind it
- San Pietro (St. Peter): Another picturesque church further up the valley
- Walking paths: Gentle trails through meadows with constant mountain views
Best Time: Spring (late May-June) when meadows are green and flowers blooming, or autumn (September-October) for fall colors. The view is also stunning in winter with snow.
Photography: The classic shot is from the road just below Santa Maddalena. Early morning light is best, particularly in October when the larches turn golden.
Where to Stay: This is a working farming valley, and many farms offer rooms (Urlaub auf dem Bauernhof). It’s an authentic way to experience the Dolomites.
My Experience: I spent three days in Val di Funes, doing nothing but gentle walks, reading in meadows, and photographing the Odle peaks from every angle. It was the most peaceful time of my entire Dolomites trip. If you’re looking to escape crowds and truly relax, this is your place.
Planning Your Dolomites Trip
How Long to Visit: I recommend at least 5-7 days seeing the highlights, though you could easily spend 2-3 weeks exploring in depth.
Best Base: It depends on what you want to see:
- Cortina d’Ampezzo: Best for the eastern Dolomites (Tre Cime, Cinque Torri, Lago di Sorapis)
- Val Gardena (Ortisei/Selva): Central location, access to Seceda, Alpe di Siusi, mountain passes
- Val di Fassa (Canazei): Great for Sella Ronda, Marmolada, Catinaccio
- Multiple bases: If time permits, split your stay between two or three locations
When to Visit:
- Summer (June-September): Best for hiking, all cable cars and rifugios open, warmest weather
- Shoulder Season (May, October): Fewer crowds, lower prices, but some facilities closed
- Winter (December-March): Skiing and winter sports
- Spring (April-May): Unpredictable weather, many facilities still closed
Getting Around: A car is essential for exploring the Dolomites efficiently. Public buses exist but are limited and time-consuming.
What to Pack:
- Hiking boots with good grip
- Layers (weather changes quickly)
- Waterproof jacket
- Sunscreen and hat
- Headlamp (for WWI tunnels)
- Water bottle or hydration pack
- Camera
The Dolomites have a way of exceeding expectations. Every valley reveals new wonders, every hike offers views that make you stop in your tracks, and every sunset paints the peaks in shades of pink and gold that seem impossible.
I’ve returned to the Dolomites five times now, and I’m already planning my next trip. These 20 places represent the absolute best the region has to offer, but honestly, even the lesser-known corners of the Dolomites are spectacular.
Whether you’re seeking challenging mountain hikes, leisurely walks through alpine meadows, dramatic drives, or simply a peaceful mountain retreat, the Dolomites deliver. Start planning your trip, and prepare to fall in love with one of the most beautiful mountain regions on Earth.
Safe travels, and enjoy every moment among these magnificent peaks!