The Dolomites is quickly becoming one of the best places to travel in Italy for its stunning alpine sceneries, beautiful towns and villages, and thick layers of adventure options all year round. The Dolomites are nearly equally shared between the provinces of Belluno, South Tyrol and Trentino The Dolomites are in the regions of Veneto, Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol and Friuli-Venezia Giulia, they extend over 364,140 hectares and span 52 upland valleys and 12 municipalities. These UNESCO World Heritage mountains lure nature lovers, trekkers, and photographers in search of scenic beauty and peace. In the summer luscious green valleys and rugged peaks make the Dolomites a playground for hiking and biking, and in the winter it is a paradise for skiers and snowy sports enthusiasts.
The region attracts cultural tourists interested in discovering delightful towns such as Ortisei and Cortina d’Ampezzo that are teeming with Ladin traditions. Wellness-seekers come for luxury spas and panoramic views at mountain resorts. Tre Cime di Lavaredo, Lago di Braies, and Alpe di Siusi are some of the best Dolomites tourist attraction. Whether you are an adventure-lover, a romantic traveller or a family wanting nature filled escapes, the Dolomites are the perfect Italian alpine experience.
What are the Best Places to Travel in Dolomites?
- Tre Cime di Lavaredo
- Seceda
- Lake Pragser (Wildsee)
- Alpe di Siusi
- Lake Sorapis
- Val di Funes
- Lake Carezza
- Val Gardena
Tre Cime di Lavaredo
This place is among the most famous Dolomites tourist attractions with its impressive three peaks and stunning panoramic trails. Hikers and naturalists who are checking off the best places to visit in Dolomites consider it a must-see. Access here is via a toll road from Misurina (around €30-€40 in peak season), or by shuttle bus during summer. It's ideal for trekking, photography, and experiencing the grandeur of the Dolomites up close. Among the best places to travel in Italy, this place is often part of the deluxe Italy tour packages suitable for mountaineers and adrenaline junkies.
Seceda
It is a stunning mountain plateau that offers dramatic, unobscured views of the sharp, jagged peaks of the Dolomites. Accessible by cable car from Ortisei, this spot is one of the best places in Dolomites for hiking and aerial photography. The lifts usually operate from May to early November, with tickets costing around €52 round-trip. The summit’s views are great or we can also say magical at sunrise or sunset. Seceda is one of the most sought-out attractions in Italy for travel enthusiasts. Adventure lovers and photographers visiting the Dolomites find Seceda as one of the best places to see the Dolomites in all its glory.
Lake Pragser (Wildsee)
If I had to pick one of the most beautiful places to visit in the Dolomites, Lake Pragser (also known as Lake Wildsee) would be it. Tourists can hire a vintage boat to paddle around the lake’s emerald waters (around €25/hour). Accessible by car or shuttle from Dobbiaco, this is a tranquil, romantic jaunt. Walking paths, benches along the lake, and quaint cafes only add to the visitor experience. It is also commonly included in the best places to go in the Dolomites, and it’s especially popular among couples and photographers. Its beautiful landscapes make it an excellent addition to Dolomites tourist attractions.
Alpe di Siusi
It is Europe’s largest high-altitude alpine meadow and one of the best places to visit in the Dolomites for families and nature lovers. It offers lush pastures, wildflowers, and dramatic mountain backdrops. In the summer, it’s great for hiking and cycling, and in winter it’s a skiers’ haven. You can get there by cable car from Ortisei or Siusi, and it’s a cornerstone of many Italy tour packages. Horse-drawn carriages, mountain huts and kid-friendly trails make it an ideal spot for leisurely exploration.
Lake Sorapis
Lake Sorapis is famous for its outlandish turquoise waters and the marvellous location, embosomed among high and vertical cliffs, is one of the most beautiful places in the Dolomites. To reach this place the travelers need to take the moderately challenging hike from Passo Tre Croci which is approximately 2 hours climb one way. The reward is worth it though, as hikers or thrill seekers are drawn to it. The lake's color seems to change with the light which offers mesmerising photo opportunities. No entry fee, however, its untrammelled beauty sees it ranked high among Dolomites tourist attractions for avid trekkers and nature lovers.
Val di Funes
Postcard-perfect alpine villages cling to the flanks of the jagged peaks of the Odle range in Val di Funes. It’s a quiet valley for those who seek peace and authentic Tyrolean charm. The world-famous St. Magdalena church with the mountain backdrop creates a scene among the most beautiful in the Dolomites. There are also traditional festivals and craft markets in the region, enriching your journey. Val di Funes can be reached by car or public transport from Brixen or Bolzano and is a secret waiting to be discovered in our Italy holiday packages.
Lake Carezza
The rainbow-hued reflections in Lake Carezza with the jagged Latemar mountain as a backdrop look like something out of a fairytale. It is among the top places to visit the Dolomites for families as well as photographers. It’s not a long drive to get to from the Val d’Ega region or you can take the bus. The walk around the lake is easy, beautiful and free. This magical spot is often featured in brochures for places to travel in Italy, being one of the most beautiful places in the Dolomites.
Val Gardena
Culture and adventure converge in Val Gardena, with its woodcarving traditions, ski resorts and picture-perfect alpine villages like Ortisei and Selva this place is one of the best year-round destinations in the Dolomites. The place offers world-class skiing in winter and lush hiking trails in summer. Easily accessible by road and public buses from Bolzano, it’s a must-visit stop in the best of Italy tour packages. Whether an active shutterbug or a foodie who enjoys the energised scene Val Gardena provides, with easy access to local cuisine and the Dolomiti Superski area, Val Gardena has something for all walks of life. No way around it, it’s a must-see in Dolomites.
Best Season to Travel to the Dolomites
The Dolomites offer year-round beauty, but the best time to visit depends on what kind of experience you seek.
From June to September i.e. the summer season, wander the mountains by hiking, mountain biking, visiting the lush green meadows, and the trails carpeted in the most spectacular wildflower bloom. During this season, tourists get the opportunity to explore the most well-known Dolomites sight-seeing, such as Tre Cime di Lavaredo and Val di Funes and Lake Sorapis. Seasonal temperatures are between 16 and 20 degrees, and the sky is clear most of the time. Cable cars and alpine huts are open, and it’s the best opportunity to get that golden hour snap for your Instagram.
In the winter season from December to March, the snow turns the Dolomites into a skiing paradise. It is a popular venue for skiers and snowboarders. You would be able to see Cortina d’Ampezzo, Val Gardena, and Alpe di Siusi overflowing with snow enthusiasts. Ski passes are widely available, and the Dolomiti Superski area offers one of the largest ski circuits in the world.
Autumn (late September to early November) brings fewer crowds, golden foliage, and cooler days, ideal for peaceful hikes and budget travellers. Spring (April to May) is quieter, but some trails and lifts may remain closed due to lingering snow. For most travellers, late June to mid-September remains the most versatile and enjoyable time to explore the Dolomites.
The Dolomites are not just mountains, they are a living painting of nature’s best artistry and undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places to travel in Italy. Whether you are captivated by the jagged peaks of Seceda, the mirror-like reflections of Lake Pragser, or the expansive green pastures of Alpe di Siusi, each experience is uniquely rewarding. Thanks to accessible transport options, well-maintained trails, and a variety of experiences throughout the year have made Dolomites one of the most favoured Italy tour highlights. The region’s ability to offer both adrenaline-filled adventures and peaceful retreats is unmatched. Whether it’s family holidays, romantic escapes or solo adventures, the Dolomites are here to welcome everyone with open arms and breathtaking views.
FAQs
Q1. When is the best time to visit the Dolomites, and what can I do in each season?
Summer (June–September): Best for hiking, cycling, via ferrata, and photography. Most mountain huts (rifugi) and trails are open.
Winter (December–March): Ideal for skiing and snowboarding in world-class resorts like Cortina d'Ampezzo or Val Gardena.
Shoulder seasons (May/October): Fewer crowds and magical landscapes, but some services and cable cars may be closed.
The Dolomites are truly a year-round destination, depending on your interests.
Q2. What are rifugi, and should I stay in one?
Yes! Rifugi (mountain huts) are a highlight of the Dolomites experience. These are rustic, cosy lodges located high in the mountains where hikers can eat, sleep, and enjoy the scenery. They range from basic to surprisingly luxurious and are a great way to do multi-day treks without camping. Advance booking is highly recommended in summer.
Q3. What kind of food is typical in the Dolomites?
Dolomites cuisine is a fusion of Italian, Austrian, and Ladin traditions. Expect hearty alpine dishes like:
- Canederli (bread dumplings)
- Speck (smoked cured ham)
- Polenta, goulash, and wild game
- Apple strudel and Kaiserschmarrn (Austrian-style pancakes)
Don’t miss local wines and cheeses, often enjoyed in mountain huts or agritourism stays with home-cooked meals.
Q4. What are some of the best hiking trails for first-timers?
Some top beginner-friendly but spectacular hikes include: -
- Lago di Braies loop trail - Scenic and flat (1.5 hours)
- Alpe di Siusi meadows - Wide open trails with views of the Sassolungo peaks
- Seceda Ridge - Take a cable car up and hike along jaw-dropping cliffs
- Tre Cime di Lavaredo circuit- Iconic and moderately easy (3–4 hours)
Many trails are well-marked, and you can combine hiking with cable cars to reduce difficulty.
Q5. What are the most photogenic spots in the Dolomites?
The Dolomites are a photographer’s dream. Iconic locations include: -
- Tre Cime di Lavaredo, especially at sunrise or sunset.
- Seceda ridgeline with its dramatic “shark fin” peaks.
- Lago di Braies, a mirror-like lake with wooden boats.
- Passo Gardena or Passo Giau that has epic road trip viewpoints.
- Alpe di Siusi at dawn to experience fog and light on alpine huts and meadows.
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