Planning Your Trip to the Dolomites
The Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage site in northeastern Italy near the Austrian border, are a mountain range unlike any other. Their dramatic peaks, scenic valleys, and diverse landscapes are breathtaking. Plus, you get a unique blend of Italian and Austrian cultures that makes for an unforgettable travel experience.
Why visit the Dolomites? For starters, the views! These mountains are over 250 million years old and are beautiful. But there’s also a ton to do. Hiking, skiing, via ferrata (protected climbing routes), and paragliding are just a few of the many activities available. Or, if you prefer, you can simply relax and enjoy the scenery.
Getting to the Dolomites, and getting around once you’re there, takes some planning because of the mountainous terrain and range of transportation options. It’s also important to book accommodations and transportation in advance, especially if you’re traveling during peak season.
This guide provides comprehensive information on how to get to the Dolomites, transportation options within the region, the best time to visit, accommodation choices, and essential travel tips to make your trip memorable.
Where exactly are the Dolomites?
The Dolomites are in northeastern Italy, across the provinces of South Tyrol (Südtirol), Trentino, and Belluno. They’re part of the Alps, near the Austrian border.
When people talk about visiting the Dolomites, they often mention places like Val Gardena, Alpe di Siusi, Val di Funes, Alta Badia, and Cortina d’Ampezzo. Each of these areas has its own distinct landscape, culture, and hiking trails.
Knowing the Dolomites’ geography is crucial for planning your trip. It helps you figure out the best airports, train stations, and home bases. Different areas are easier to reach depending on which routes and transportation options you choose.
How to get to the Dolomites: Airports
Depending on where you’re coming from, you have several airport options for getting to the Dolomites. Here are some of the most popular:
Closest Airports for Visiting the Dolomites
- Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE). At about two hours from the Dolomites, this airport offers lots of international connections, including flights from North America and the Middle East.
- Verona Airport (VRN). Also about two hours away, this airport has direct flights to and from destinations all over Europe, including the UK.
- Innsbruck Airport (INN). This one’s about 90 minutes away from the Dolomites and offers connections to major European cities.
Other airports you might consider are Bolzano Airport (BZO), Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP), and Munich Airport (MUC). Bolzano has direct flights from a number of European cities.
Airport Transfer Options
Once you’ve landed, you’ll need to figure out how to get to your destination in the Dolomites. Here are some ways to get from the airport to the mountains:
- Car Rental. Renting a car will give you the most flexibility for exploring the Dolomites. I recommend using Discovercars.com to find the best deals.
- Shuttle Buses. Cortina Express and other shuttle services run from the airports to various locations in the Dolomites. These can be pricey, sometimes costing €100 or more per person.
- Private Transfers. For a more comfortable and personalized experience, you can book a private transfer in advance.
How to get to the Dolomites: Train and bus
If you’re not planning to rent a car, you can still get to the Dolomites by train and bus. Here’s how.
Train travel to the Dolomites
The train stations in Bolzano/Bozen and San Candido/Innichen are your main entry points to the Dolomites.
You can catch a train to these stations from major European cities through Austria (Innsbruck) and Italy (Verona, Venice).
For example, a train from Innsbruck to Bolzano takes about 2 hours. The trip from Verona to Bolzano varies in length, depending on connections.
A few tips for train travel:
- Book your tickets early, especially if you’re traveling during the busiest times of year.
- Check train schedules and connections on the Trenitalia website.
Bus travel to the Dolomites
Several bus companies, including FlixBus, AltoAdigeBus, and SAD Bus, can get you to the Dolomites. Cortina Express runs buses from Venice Airport.
The bus from Innsbruck to Bolzano takes around 3 hours and 10 minutes. Several buses a day make the trip from Venice to Cortina d’Ampezzo.
Once you’re in the Dolomites, you can use local bus services to get around. Südtirolmobil.info and DolomitiBus are good resources for planning local trips.
If you’re planning to use public transportation a lot, you might want to buy a South Tyrol Mobilcard, which gives you access to local buses and trains. These cards cost €15 for 1 day, €23 for 3 days, or €28 for 7 days.
Should you rent a car in the Dolomites?
That’s a big question. Here’s what to consider:
Advantages of renting a car
- Flexibility: You can explore remote areas and hidden gems that you might otherwise miss.
- Accessibility: Many trailheads and scenic viewpoints aren’t easily accessible by public transport. A car gives you the freedom to reach them.
- Freedom: You get to create your own itinerary and travel at your own pace, without being tied to bus or train schedules.
Driving conditions in the Dolomites
- Winding roads: Be prepared for mountain roads that require extra driving time. What looks like a short distance on a map can take much longer to drive.
- Narrow roads: Some roads are narrow and challenging, especially for larger vehicles. A smaller car is often easier to navigate in these conditions.
Car rental tips
- Book in advance: Especially during peak season, booking ahead will help you secure the best rates and ensure availability.
- Insurance: Check if your rental car includes insurance coverage and consider purchasing additional coverage if needed.
- Parking fees: Be prepared for parking fees in some areas, and it’s always a good idea to carry some cash.
Alternatives to renting a car
If you’re not comfortable driving in the mountains, consider using a combination of public transport and guided tours. Choose a central base location with good public transport connections to make getting around easier.
Choosing a base location in the Dolomites
If you want to see the Dolomites, it really helps to choose a good base location. Finding somewhere central can reduce your travel time and let you spend more time exploring.
Some good options are:
- Bolzano: Bolzano has great transport links to different parts of the Dolomites.
- Cortina d’Ampezzo: This is a popular spot for exploring the eastern part of the region.
- Val Gardena: Val Gardena has incredible scenery and hiking trails.
When you’re choosing your base, remember to think about:
- How close you’ll be to the things you want to see and do.
- What kinds of places you can stay in.
- How easy it is to get around on public transport.
When is the best time to visit the Dolomites?
Your favorite time to visit the Dolomites will depend on how you plan to spend your time there.
Summer (June–September)
Summer is peak hiking season in the Dolomites. The weather is ideal for outdoor activities, but you’ll be sharing the trails with crowds of other hikers, especially in July and August.
If you’re planning a summer visit, book your accommodations and activities as far in advance as possible. You might want to start your hikes early in the day or later in the afternoon to avoid the biggest crowds.
Autumn (late September–October)
Autumn is the time to visit if you want to see the Dolomites awash in vibrant fall colors and if you’re hoping to avoid crowds. You’re most likely to see the landscape at its most colorful in mid-October, but keep in mind that the weather can be unpredictable.
Winter (December–March)
Winter is the season for snow-covered beauty in the Dolomites. This is when skiers, snowboarders, and other winter sports enthusiasts flock to the area. If you’re a hiker, though, be aware that many trails will be closed due to snow and ice.
Spring (April–May)
Spring is generally considered the least appealing time to visit the Dolomites. Many trails and rifugi (mountain huts) are closed, and the landscape is often muddy. This isn’t the best time for hiking or other outdoor activities.
Tips for visiting the Dolomites
The Dolomites are an incredible destination, but planning can make your trip even better. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Book accommodations early. This is especially important during peak season. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider staying in a rifugi (mountain hut) for a unique, rustic experience.
- Driving takes time. Mountain roads can be winding and slow, so factor in extra driving time. Download offline maps because cell service can be spotty.
- Carry cash. Many parking areas, rifugi, and small businesses prefer cash.
- Learn a few Italian phrases. While English is common in tourist areas, knowing some basic Italian is always appreciated.
- Purchase travel insurance. Mountain weather can be unpredictable, and accidents can happen. Be aware of weather conditions and potential hazards.
What to pack for the Dolomites
The Dolomites are beautiful, but you have to be prepared for all kinds of weather. Here’s a general packing list:
- Clothing: The key is layers. Bring shirts, sweaters, and jackets you can add or remove as the temperature changes. Waterproof and windproof outer layers are a must.
- Footwear: If you plan to hike, bring hiking shoes that provide good ankle support. You’ll also want comfortable shoes for exploring towns and villages.
- Gear: A daypack is essential for carrying water, snacks, and other essentials on hikes. Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
- Other essentials: Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated. A small first-aid kit with any necessary medications is also a good idea.
Putting It All Together
Getting to the Dolomites requires some planning, but it’s well worth the effort. Think about the best way for you to travel — by plane, train, rental car, or bus — and where you’d like to stay, keeping in mind the best time to visit for your ideal activities.
The Dolomites offer an unforgettable travel experience, with stunning landscapes, exciting outdoor adventures, and a unique culture all their own.
Use this guide as a starting point for planning your trip. Research the specific attractions and activities that appeal to you, and don’t hesitate to explore beyond the beaten path. The Dolomites are waiting to be discovered, and with a little preparation, you can create memories that will last a lifetime. Buon viaggio!