3 DAYS ITINERARY IN THE DOLOMITES: PERFECT SUMMER WEEKEND IN THE ITALIAN ALPS

Renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and unique geological features, this region has garnered the prestigious title of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Dolomites are a sought-after tourist destination throughout both the winter and summer seasons. Nonetheless, I personally recommend visiting the Dolomites during the summer to truly grasp the beauty and distinctiveness of this location.

From lush meadows and breathtaking Alpine valleys to crystal-clear lake water, pine trees, and limestone mountain peaks, the Dolomites offer a diverse and captivating natural landscape. Coupled with the unique Tyrolean culture, local traditions, the Dolomites are a place that holds something special for everyone.

Did you know that this vast mountain range was once submerged under the sea? Abundant evidence suggests that the fossils and formations discovered in the Dolomites originated from an ancient marine environment.

Even though I am an avid skier, I am typically not someone who gravitates towards mountainous regions. However, I have recently discovered that returning to the mountains offers more than just a typical vacation experience. I find it to be remarkably therapeutic, allowing me to reconnect with nature and unwind from the hustle and bustle of city life and my travels. The fresh air, stunning natural surroundings, and the serene tranquility of the Alps enable me to slow down and fully immerse myself in the present moment. It's incredible how the mountains possess the ability to revitalize both the mind and the body.

The Dolomites offer endless opportunities for outdoor activities, sightseeing, hiking, climbing, as well as cultural experiences. Even if you only have three days in the Dolomites, it can take your breath away and showcase the diverse beauty that Italy has to offer. I have designed the ultimate three-day road trip itinerary to highlight the best of the Dolomites and a quick guide to help you plan your trip. I hope you find it useful.

WHY VISIT THE DOLOMITES?

1 - A unique blend of cultures

The Dolomites boast a unique blend of cultures and a rich history. The region has a recorded human history dating back to the Stone Age and has witnessed the rise and fall of the Roman Empire. It has been a part of Tyrol, later serving as a territory of the Austro-Hungarian Empire for over 400 years, until the events of the First World War. Throughout its history, the Dolomites have experienced the influence of multiple cultures and languages, with each leaving its distinct mark. While the area is located within modern-day Italy, three languages are spoken: Italian, German, and Ladin. Every village and town in the Dolomites has both an Italian and Austrian name. The food in the Dolomites differs from what is typically associated with Italian cuisine. It is a delightful fusion of Tyrolean, German, and Italian culinary influences.

2 - The Dolomites are a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Due to their extraordinary universal significance, the Dolomites have been granted the prestigious status of a UNESCO World Heritage site. Composed of dolomitic limestone, a rare rock formation, these mountains are characterized by their distinctive spires, steep rock walls, and jagged peaks. Geologists consider the Dolomites a vital source of information about the geological forces that have shaped our planet, making them an essential area of study and research.

3 - Stunning natural beauty

The scenery in the Dolomites is absolutely breathtaking. These mountains and lush meadows are a true natural wonder. With their striking peaks, lush valleys, and picturesque landscapes, the Dolomites offer an unparalleled experience for nature lovers, adventurers, and those seeking unparalleled beauty. A visit to the Dolomites promises to be an unforgettable journey into one of the most stunning and awe-inspiring natural landscapes on the planet.

HOW TO GET THERE

The Dolomites are the mountain range in Northeastern Italy, and there are various ways to reach the Dolomites. Here are the closest airports to the Dolomites:

• Bolzano Airport (BZO), Italy

• Treviso Airport (TSF), Italy

• Verona Airport (VRN), Italy

• Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP), Italy

• Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE), Italy

• Innsbruck Airport (INN), Austria
  

This specific itinerary is designed to start in the Western Dolomites, making Bolzano the ideal starting point due to its proximity, followed by Treviso, Verona, or Milan. However, if you are arriving in Milan, it will take at least 4 hours to reach the Dolomites. Alternatively, you can arrive in Venice and reverse the itinerary accordingly.

ABOUT THIS 3 DAYS ITINERARY IN THE DOLOMITES

This is a 3-day road trip itinerary highlighting the best of the Dolomites. Tailored for short trips and scenic road enthusiasts, this itinerary is crafted to showcase some of the most stunning features of the Dolomites, including majestic mountain lakes, lush meadows, picturesque alpine towns, and breathtaking mountain landscapes. While there will be some short hikes involved to reach certain locations accessible only by foot, this itinerary is not for hikers.

A car is essential for this itinerary as it is the quickest and most convenient means to explore the Dolomites. Make sure to have cash and spare change with you as there will be tolls along the way and certain parking areas where only cash payments are accepted.

It's important to set the right expectations for this trip. Three days is a relatively short period, and it's important to understand that you might not be able to see everything. Feel free to adjust and adapt the itinerary to your own pace and preferences.

DAY 0 - ARRIVAL

This is a 3-day itinerary. To make the most of your time in the Dolomites, I recommend arriving and renting a car a day before your planned itinerary. This will give you extra time to explore the region and help reduce stress and rushing. Make sure you are all set for the intensive 3-day itinerary.

DAY 1 - WESTERN DOLOMITES

Make sure to wake up early to make the most of the day and explore some of the most beautiful places in the western part of the Dolomites, including Lago di Carezza, Alpe di Siusi, Santa Maddalena, and the Church of St. John. Get ready, fuel yourself with delicious Italian coffee and a hearty breakfast as the day is going to be full of adventures

Lago di Carezza (Karersee)

The first destination of the day is the beautiful Lago di Carezza. The emerald waters, the majestic mountain backdrop, and the iridescent sparkle that inspired the ancient legend of mermaids and wizards.

According to the tale, a mermaid once resided in the lake, and a wizard named Masaré fell in love with her. In an attempt to woo her, he disguised himself as a jewel merchant and attempted to cast a rainbow between Mt. Catinaccio and Mt. Latemar. However, the mermaid saw through his disguise and vanished into the depths of the lake. In his frustration, the wizard threw the rainbow and all the jewels into the lake, giving it the vibrant rainbow colors it is renowned for today.

Try to arrive there for sunrise to watch the lake come alive as the first light of dawn illuminates the stunning mountain peaks. Just across the street from the lake, you will find a large parking lot that requires a small fee. In case there are no parking spaces left, there are a few other parking areas in the vicinity, albeit a bit further away. However, if you visit early in the morning, you shouldn't encounter any issues finding parking. Next to the parking lot, you'll come across a visitor center with a few small shops, restrooms, and a cafe.

Lago di Carezza is a relatively small lake, and the walk around it can be completed in less than an hour. As you approach the lake, you will notice a large wooden viewing platform at the start of the loop. This platform serves as an excellent photography spot and features several informative panels. Take a stroll around the lake to fully appreciate the beauty of this place. Keep in mind that the lake is fenced, and crossing the fence or swimming in the lake is not permitted.

There are several hiking trails in the area; however, unless you have extra time, I would suggest skipping them as the lake is located a bit far from other locations, and there is a long drive to the next destination.

Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Alm)

After a short visit to Lago di Carezza, make your way to Alpe di Suisi (Seiser Alm is a German name). The journey is going to take about 1.5 hours.

Alpe di Siusi stands as one of the must-see destinations in the Dolomites. Its verdant meadows and flower-strewn pastures, surrounded by towering Dolomite peaks, adorned with charming alpine cottages, offer an awe-inspiring sight. Open throughout the year, it serves as a popular spot for hiking and biking during the warmer months, while providing numerous ski and snowboarding slopes in the winter.

Alpe di Siusi is the largest Alpine meadow in Europe and one of the most popular ski areas in Val Gardena.

Alpe di Sisusi offers an abundance of hiking trails, bike rides, and paragliding experiences, as well as picturesque viewpoints. It is indeed a photographer's paradise, providing stunning opportunities for capturing breathtaking mountain and landscape photography.

If you have more time, I would suggest staying here for at least a few days to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of this place. However, since this is a 3-day itinerary focused on experiencing the highlights of Dolomites, I recommend spending 3-5 hours in Alpe di Sisusi. You can embark on a short hike through the beautiful alpine meadow, such as the 45-minute to 1-hour trail from Compatsch to the Viewpoint Bench Panorama, which is arguably the most popular and photographed viewpoint in Alpe di Sisusi. You can find the exact Google location here. Alternatively, you can opt for a longer or full-day hike, but it may require omitting some of the other locations on the itinerary.

How to get there

Reaching Alpe di Siusi can be a bit tricky, so it's important to conduct thorough research and plan your trip carefully. Due to its popularity, there are restrictions on when you can drive to Alpe di Siusi. Private traffic is prohibited on the road between 9 am and 5 pm, except for guests staying at the local hotels. There are several ways to get there:

Getting there by car (to Compatsch)

You can drive to the Compatsch parking lot before 9 am and after 5 pm. Once you’re there, you can exit at any time. Compatsch is the furthest point you can drive to, and there are two parking lots, with P2 (Compatsch) being the closest. The parking fee for this lot is a flat daily rate of €26.50. After parking, you can continue your journey by following the appropriate trail signs for your chosen hike. For updated pricing and hours, please check their official website.

If your hotel is situated on Alpe di Siusi, you will be granted a special permit from the hotel allowing you to drive up at any time, exclusively on the day of your check-in. However, this permit restricts you to driving directly to your hotel and prohibits cruising around Alpe di Siusi or visiting any vantage points. Driving back down is allowed at any time of the day.

Getting there by cable car

Alternatively, you can opt for the cable car ride to Alpe di Siusi. This option is convenient if you cannot make the drive by 9 am or if you prefer not to drive to Alpe di Siusi. There are two main cable cars that make their way up to Alpe di Siusi: the Alpe di Siusi Aerial Cableway and the Ortisei-Alpe di Siusi Gondola. Depending on which hike you are interested in, you will have to choose the appropriate cableway.

The Seiser Alm Aerial Cableway is located in the town of Siusi (Seis) and runs to Compatsch. During the summer months, the cableway usually operates from 8 am to 6/7 pm. A round-trip ticket costs €24 per person. For updated pricing and hours, please check their official website. If you are taking the Alpe di Siusi Aerial Cableway, you can park your car at the Seiser Alm Bahn parking lot, and the parking is free of charge.

Another option is to take the Ortisei – Alpe di Siusi cable car (also called Mont Sëuc). This cable car starts in Ortisei and ends in Alpe di Siusi, specifically at Almgasthof Mont Seuc. The cable arrives right up to the plateau, not in Compatsch. There is paid parking available next to the cable car, known as the Mont Sëuc Garage. The round trip cost is €28.00. For updated pricing and hours, please check their official website.

Before choosing which cable car to use, plan which hikes you want to do and what places you want to visit, as the cable cars take you to different locations. Have a clear plan in mind and choose the most convenient cable car for your itinerary.

Getting there by bus

There are several bus options available for transportation in Alpe di Suisi. The Seiser Alm Express provides a convenient connection between Siusi and Compaccio, offering an alternative means of reaching the alpine pasture besides cable cars or cars. A round-trip ticket is priced at €26.50 and can be acquired directly on the bus. You can find the timetables and additional details on their official website.

Additionally, the Almbus serves as a useful option for traveling between Compaccio and different stops within the meadows, especially if you're aiming to access specific trailheads.

Lunch in Alpe di Siusi

Now it's time for lunch. Adjacent to the Viewpoint Bench Panorama, just a few minutes away, you'll find Malga Schgaguler Schwaige. This restaurant boasts both indoor and outdoor seating areas with beautiful views overlooking the meadow fields. The menu here offers a variety of local dishes and drinks, allowing you to savor the flavors of the region. After enjoying a hearty lunch, make your way back to your car.

Val di Funes

Drive from Alpe di Siusi to Santa Maddalena (St. Magdalena in German); the journey will take about 1 to 1.5 hours. Santa Maddalena is a picturesque small village in Val di Funes (Villnösstal) in South Tyrol.

Val di Funes is a popular place for skiing in winter and hiking in summer, and it is filled with beautiful spots to visit. The churches of Val di Funes have become favorites among photographers. Two famous photo spots in the area are the church of Santa Maddalena and Chiesetta di San Giovanni (Church of St. John).

The church of Santa Maddalena is located in a village bearing the same name. According to local legend, the church is built on the spot where a mirage of Santa Maddalena was discovered after being washed up by the Fopal River. The best viewpoint, however, is situated along a private road accessible only to local residents, so it's not possible to drive directly to the viewpoint. Instead, you must take a walk there. To find this viewpoint, simply search for "Panorama di Santa Maddalena" on the map, and it should show you the exact location.

Next, head to the San Giovanni Church, which is just a 5-10 minute drive from Santa Maddalena. This white stone church, commissioned in 1744, features an onion dome with a star, alluding to the martyrdom of John. While the church itself is quite attractive, its true renown stems from its picturesque location, nestled in a sweeping green meadow. Located on private grounds, for many, the best view of the church is observed from behind a small picket fence, where signs guide tourists to the best spots for photos. You can also visit the church for a small fee (please check the opening times).

Overnight options

For the overnight, there are numerous options available. I would suggest staying somewhere close to Lago di Braies, so that you don't have to embark on a long drive on day 2. Several towns and villages are located within 15-20 minutes from the lake. Some of the options include Dobbiaco (Toblach), Monguelfo (Welsberg-Taisten), Villabassa (Niederdorf), or Valdaora (Olang). We stayed in Valdaora, a small Alpine town, which was just 25 minutes away from Lago di Braies.

DAY 2 - CENTRAL DOLOMITES

On day 2, try to get up early as the day is going to be long and full of adventures. We will explore the majestic lakes of the Dolomites.

Lago di Braies (Pragser Wildsee)

The most iconic sight in the Dolomites, Lago di Braies (Pragser Wildsee) is renowned for its crystal-clear aquamarine lake, with a dramatic mountainous backdrop, a ubiquitous boathouse, beautiful spruce pine forests, and towering limestone peaks. Often referred to as the pearl of the Dolomites, Lago di Braies is located in the Fanes-Senes-Braies Nature Park and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Dolomites. When you think about the Dolomites, I’m certain that this is a name and image you've seen appear on the internet.

Try to come early, ideally before 9 a.m. This is one of the most visited places in the whole of the Dolomites, and as you can imagine, it gets quite busy during the day. Also, if you are planning to rent a rowboat, which is one of the most popular activities on the lake, make sure you arrive early because during peak season, boats tend to sell out quickly, often by mid-morning.

Once you reach the lake, there are several activities you can enjoy. I would recommend spending at least three hours there. One of the most popular activities is renting a rowboat, which is a perfect way to explore the lake and enjoy the beautiful scenery. During our visit to Lago di Braies in 2023, we paid 50 euros for a private rowboat. If you prefer not to hire a private boat, there is an option to share a rowboat for 10 euros per person for 30 minutes, with a maximum capacity of five people.

There is an easy hiking trail loop that encircles the lake. Depending on your pace, the walk takes approximately an hour. I highly recommend doing the loop around the lake as it offers the opportunity to view the lake from various angles and provides numerous picturesque spots to capture the beauty of the lake.

There is also a small chapel by the lake that you can visit. The church was built in 1904. The location has an interesting history, as during World War II, a German commander used this church as a meeting place for a prisoner exchange.

For lunch, there are multiple options, including on-site restaurants, bistros, and cafes. We chose the bistro by the lakeside, and the food was delightful. I ordered polenta with wild mushrooms, and the prices were reasonable. Alternatively, you can proceed to the next destination and find something to eat there or on the way.

How to get there & parking rules

The easiest way to reach Lago di Braies is by car. However, it's important to be aware of the rules and restrictions, particularly during the summer months. From July 10 to September 10, there are vehicle restrictions in place to reduce traffic and visitor numbers in the Pragser Tal Valley during the peak season.

Be aware that between July 10th and September 10th, the road is closed from 9:30 am to 4 pm. During this time, it is mandatory to book parking spaces at the lakeside car parks in advance. You can make your reservations through the official website.

While there is a good amount of parking available at Lago di Braies, it tends to fill up quickly, especially in the busy summer months. It's worth noting that the parking lots are managed by different companies, and the pricing can vary depending on the time of day.

Below is a quick guide about parking at Lago di Braies to assist you in planning your trip. For the latest parking information and prices, please refer to the official website provided above.

P4: This is the car park managed by Hotel Lago di Braies. It is the closest parking area to the lake. When we went there, you could book a day-stay ticket for 38 EUR through their official website. This includes access to the car park at any time of day, a reserved parking spot, and a 15 EUR voucher, which you can redeem at one of their bistros or restaurants.

P3: This is the second closest car park to Lago di Braies, located only 500 meters from the lake, and it is about a 4-to-5-minute walk to the lake. You can pre-book your tickets and check the most recent parking costs here. 

P2: This car park is located only 800 meters from the lake and is about a 10-minute walk to the lake. You can pre-book your tickets and check the most recent parking costs here.

P1 (formerly known as "Segheria"): This car park is located 5.5 km from Lago di Braies. There are shuttles that run approximately every 30 minutes (between 9:30 am and 4 pm, except during lunch) to Lake Braies. You can pre-book your tickets and check the most recent parking costs here.

Lago di Dobbiaco (Toblacher See)

In the afternoon, after visiting the majestic Lago di Braies, make your way to another beautiful lake called Lago di Dobbiaco. The journey should take approximately 25 minutes.

Lago di Dobbiaco is one of the numerous breathtaking mountain lakes in the Dolomites. It's a relatively small and shallow lake, characterized by its picture-perfect turquoise waters, surrounded by lush forests and towering mountain peaks. Unlike Lago di Braies, this lake is not as crowded, providing the perfect opportunity to savor the beauty of the Alpine nature without large crowds.

The lake offers several activities, but the main attraction is admiring the stunning scenery of the Alpine lake. There is a short 45-minute hike around the lake, and you can also rent a paddle boat to explore the water. Additionally, there are a few restaurants by the lake if you fancy eating or drinking. However, my favorite activity there was observing the wild trout in the small river connecting to the lake. There were plenty of sizable fish, and seeing wild trout in the Alpine waters was a fascinating experience for me.

Lago di Misurina

Now it's time for another beautiful lake, head towards Lago di Misurina, the journey will take approximately 20 minutes. Lago di Misurina is situated in a small village of the same name.

The lake's surroundings and unique climatic characteristics contribute to a special microclimate, making it an exceptional destination for individuals with respiratory illnesses. The lake is home to a medical center that specializes in the treatment of childhood asthma (the 'Pio XII Institute').

The lake serves as an ideal base for various hikes and trips of all kinds. The surrounding area offers a range of activities, from leisurely strolls through meadows and green forests to more challenging hikes leading to the nearby peaks. There is a picturesque 2.5 km walking trail, and it takes approximately 30-40 minutes to leisurely walk around the lake. The trail offers exceptional views of the surrounding area.

From Misurina, it is convenient to access one of the most iconic landmarks of the Dolomites – a circular path around Tre Cime. However, be prepared to dedicate at least 4 hours for this hike. In our case, we had to skip this as we only had 3 days in the Dolomites and we wanted to see other locations as well.

Overnight options

There are many excellent options for your overnight stay. You can choose to stay in one of the hotels in Misurina or head to Cortina d’Ampezzo, the famous ski resort. Cortina d’Ampezzo offers a lively town atmosphere with a wide array of restaurant and bar options, as well as a large variety of hotels and apartments. However, I would recommend something truly unique. How about staying in one of the highest campgrounds in the Dolomites? It sounds incredible, doesn't it?

I am not usually one for campsites and would typically opt for a comfortable stay with all the necessary facilities. However, in this case, I would 100% recommend opting for a glamping experience in the heart of the Dolomites. This offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience and an opportunity to reconnect with nature. Just imagine waking up in the heart of the Dolomites: fresh alpine air, stargazing, an open fire, and, of course, breathtaking views of the Dolomite mountains. What could be better than this?

We stayed at Camping Sass Dlacia and rented an A-Frame cabin for one night. This package included the A-Frame cabin, onsite parking, and access to the spa. All cabins are equipped with heaters to ensure a warm and comfortable night. Shared bathroom and toilet facilities are available on site. Additionally, the campsite offers a few restaurants and a small shop. We had dinner at the onsite restaurant and the food was delightful.

The campsite is a bit distant, approximately a 2-hour drive from Lago di Misurina. Nevertheless, I must say it was absolutely worth it. It's not just the campsite experience itself, but also the scenic road trip through some of the most picturesque landscapes.

DAY 3 - EASTERN DOLOMITES

We've arrived at day 3, the final day of the itinerary. Today is dedicated to exploring some of the finest attractions in the Eastern part of the Dolomites, including the renowned Italian ski resort - Cortina d'Ampezzo, the stunning turquoise Lago di Sorapis, and Lago di Limides. Depending on your overnight location, the order of destinations may vary.

Cortina d’Ampezzo

Cortina d'Ampezzo is a renowned ski resort town in the region of Veneto. Cortina gained recognition for hosting the 1956 Winter Olympics, an honor it is set to repeat in 2026. Serving as a cultural melting pot, Cortina offers an extensive array of summer alpine activities, making it an ideal destination for a luxury summer mountain holiday filled with outdoor fun. Despite its upmarket and glamorous reputation, the town exudes a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, with numerous bars and restaurants.

The history of Cortina d'Ampezzo has a long history, with the first settlements in the valley dating back to at least the 6th century AD. For centuries, the local community thrived in the valley, engaging in agriculture and the timber trade.

Cortina has historically existed on the border between the Republic of Venice and Tyrol. Cortina was part of Tyrol and later as a territory of the Austro-Hungarian Empire for over 400 years.

In the mid-1800s, the first travelers began visiting Cortina to explore its stunning mountains and nature, marking the beginning of the area's rich history of tourism. Significant battles between Italians and Austrians occurred on the mountains of Cortina d'Ampezzo during the First World War, leaving a tragic history behind. The area now houses a vast outdoor museum of the First World War, open for visitors year-round.

Cortina d'Ampezzo is a picturesque small town that merits taking the time to explore its streets. The town's main road, Via Italia, boasts a rich history that dates back to the Middle Ages. Despite its historical significance, the main town area is compact, allowing visitors to easily traverse everything within less than an hour.

Lago di Sorapis

Lago di Sorapis (also spelled Lago di Sorapiss) is a glacial lake nestled in the Italian Dolomites. The lake is renowned for its striking color, ranging from light blue to turquoise, and its dramatic location at the foot of Dito di Dio (the 'Finger of God'). The distinct color is attributed to the fine rock dust brought down from the like-named glacier, where the spring and summer meltwater feed the lake.

The only way to access Lago di Sorapis is by hiking. There are several hiking trails available, with the shortest route (trail 215) taking approximately 2 hours to reach the lake. This direct path offers a scenic and diverse experience, but it can get quite crowded.

Plan for at least 4-5 hours for this hike (2 hours each way and at least 30 minutes to admire the beautiful lake). Please be aware that this trail becomes increasingly rocky and uneven, with some sections becoming very steep. In certain areas, the path is reinforced with metal ladders and boards. The final part of the trail traverses through forests and across some karst pavement.

This is a proper hike, and it's advisable to have the appropriate equipment with you, including sturdy hiking boots. While the hike isn't technically difficult, it may not be suitable for everyone, especially for those who suffer from vertigo or feel uncomfortable with steep terrain.

Lago di Limides

Lago Limides is a small alpine lake located on the Falzarego Pass in the Italian Dolomites, not far from Cortina d'Ampezzo. It's important to note that the lake, although stunning, is relatively small and may not retain water throughout the entire year. However, when it does, it offers breathtaking reflections of the surrounding Tofana and Lagazuoi mountains.

According to legend, if you observe the reflections in the water of this small lake, especially beautiful in the spring, those with the purest of hearts may catch a glimpse of an Anguana, a water nymph of Dolomitic folklore.

This glacial lake is primarily fed by rainwater and melting snow, with a small outlet that only discharges when the water level exceeds the overflow threshold. June is arguably the best month for a hike to this high mountain lake.

There are several hiking trails available, with the shortest one taking approximately 20 minutes.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Traveling in the Dolomites offers a mesmerizing blend of breathtaking landscapes, charming alpine villages, and exhilarating outdoor adventures. From iconic peaks to scenic trails, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a paradise for hikers, climbers, and nature enthusiasts. Whether you seek adrenaline-fueled activities or serene moments in nature, the Dolomites promise an unforgettable journey amid stunning mountain scenery.