So, you need to go to the Dolomites however solely have a couple of days. You want a brief Dolomites itinerary for a day journey, weekend or go to as much as 5 days which provides you ALL the very best locations in probably the most smart order. You’ll want to know what’s value your time, what you may neglect and the place you must keep.
And right here it is- the proper Dolomites Itinerary for brief highway journeys.
Our Dolomites journey weblog posts cowl most of our favorite locations in additional element, however that is an outline of the routes and itinerary we took, together with driving distances and stops.
Seize a espresso and let’s get began.
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For those who discover this put up helpful, you may additionally deal with us to a espresso – we promise to get pleasure from it whereas creating extra helpful content material like this- we would even bask in a biscuit (or two!)
Why go to the Dolomites?
The Dolomites are in contrast to anyplace else we’ve been. We’ve road-tripped round Europe for years- and this place took our breath away.
We’d all the time hurried previous Northern Italy earlier than, desirous to discover the Italian lakes, the Alps, or Slovenia- all of that are stunning and completely value a visit- however we REALLY want we’d stopped on the Dolomites earlier.
It’s onerous to clarify the fantastic thing about these mountains, or how they differ from the Alps or different European mountains we’ve seen. The mix of HUGE inexperienced meadows, jagged peaks, mountain climbing trails and among the most stunning locations we’ve ever seen- the entire package deal is charming.
Dare we are saying it, however after 4 brief days, we had utterly fallen in love with this region- each nook is one other ‘wow’ second. And after Norway, our ‘wow’ meter is ready fairly excessive.
The Dolomites are actually firmly in our prime 3 favorite locations to highway journey in Europe- they are surely THAT spectacular.
Satisfied it’s someplace you need to go to? Even for those who solely have a brief break? Good- let’s plan your excellent Dolomites itinerary.
What’s there to do within the Dolomites?
There are SO MANY THINGS to do within the Dolomites.
It’s a spot for outside explorations, particularly mountain climbing, images, canine walks, star-gazing, highway journeys, picnics and simply feeling awe-struck at the fantastic thing about nature. Significantly, it’s a kind of locations the place you simply need to be outside ALL. THE. TIME. Even when the climate isn’t at its finest.
In winter, lots of the cities turn out to be ski resorts, which might be an exquisite option to benefit from the views.
We didn’t have a lot time to spend within the space, so we didn’t add any of the large or finest hikes into our Dolomites itinerary. For those who’d prefer to know extra about mountain climbing to a glacial lake or which mountains are best/ most enjoyable to hike, this guide will let you know every part you should know.
Additionally, ensure you know what to put on whereas mountain climbing and gown for regardless of the climate could have in store- these are massive mountains and it’s straightforward to get sucked in by their magnificence and neglect the risks of mountain climbing if unprepared.
As an alternative, we targeted on among the most stunning lakes which have been only a brief stroll or brief hike away, so we might see as a lot as attainable within the brief time we had.
After all, you are able to do an all day hike if you want, however that may not be the best choice for those who’re brief on time.
Should-Know Ideas in your Dolomites Itinerary
The place are the Dolomites?
The Dolomites are in northeastern Italy and one of the stunning mountain ranges I’ve ever skilled. In addition to mountains, there are many quaint cities and implausible driving roads- making it probably the greatest highway journeys in Italy.
The realm is protected as a Unesco World Heritage web site because of the ‘collection of extremely distinctive mountain landscapes which can be of remarkable pure magnificence. Their dramatic vertical and pale colored peaks in a wide range of distinctive sculptural varieties are extraordinary in a world context.’ (taken from the UNESCO web site)
Why Is It Known as ‘the Dolomites’?
The 250-million-year-old formation also called the “Pale Mountains” took its identify from the French geologist Dieudonné Dolomieu, who studied the area’s geology and dolomitic limestone formations within the 18th century.
When is the very best time to go to the Dolomites?
I visited the Dolomites in early October and in my view that’s a good time to visit- a lot better than in excessive season (which is July and August).
What’s one of the simplest ways to discover the Dolomites?
Ideally, you need to discover the Dolomites in your personal automotive or car. We visited as a part of our motorhome tour in Italy. Foolishly, as a result of we have been heading to Croatia, we didn’t take our bikes with us, but it surely’s a implausible place to go bike touring in Italy.
In case you have a rental automotive, ensure you take time so as to add the Dolomites to your itinerary. For those who’re solely utilizing public transportation, you may nonetheless discover the Dolomites, however companies may not be as common as you might be used to, so it’s possible you’ll want to spend greater than someday within the space.
The city of Ortisei or Cortina D’Ampezzo are the primary cities to goal for, particularly from Venice – it’s an attractive drive at any time of 12 months though the route has many hairpin turns and isn’t suggested for these susceptible to movement illness.
You may take the practice to Bolzano and Val Gardena from Venice, Milan, or Verona.
The place is the closest airport to the Dolomites?
The closest airports to the Dolomites area are in Venice – Marco Polo and Treviso. You may attain Venice from most main hubs throughout Europe and the US.
Are the Dolomites Italian or German?
The Dolomites are a little bit of each. The language is bilingual – and even trilingual in some locations – so look forward to finding cities and villages sharing Austrian and Italian names, and generally even Ladin, the traditional Roman language handed down by the primary valley inhabitants.
Nearly everybody speaks Italian, German, Italian and English, however don’t be shocked for those who discover most Dolomites talking the native Ladin.
What’s the Forex within the Dolomites?
The forex within the Dolomites is the Euro, similar to in most elements of Italy. All main debit and bank cards are broadly accepted, however be ready for these $5 withdrawal charges if you should use an ATM for money and plan for these bills upfront.
What are the opening hours within the Dolomites?
Opening hours for the lifts, cable vehicles, and lodges within the Dolomites fluctuate, however you may count on a typical 8:00 am to 7:00 pm timetable for many companies. Eating places hours prolong till 10:00 pm or later.
A phrase of warning: ensure that to test your lodge’s test in time rigorously as some don’t provide reception service after 5 p.m. in chosen areas.
How Good is the Web within the Dolomites?
The 4 main cellular networks in Italy are Vodafone, Windtre, TIM, and Iliad.
Some city present free WiFi in the primary squares and raise amenities, but when your smartphone helps it, you may have web on the highway with a regional Eurolink e-sim (costs begin from $5).
Mountaineering within the Dolomites
The Dolomites and South Tyrol are an excellent place for individuals who like to hike in mountainous areas. The preferred hikes can get busy in summer time, so that you may want to begin within the early morning for longer day hikes so as to get the path to your self as a lot as attainable.
For even longer hikes, there are mountain huts (rifugio) in every single place which may be booked upfront and are an excellent choice for multi-day hikes. One of the vital in style of those is Rifugio Auronzo on Tre Cime, one of many favourite hikes for a lot of guests.
Dolomites for non-hikers
What we actually preferred was that you simply don’t HAVE to go for lengthy hikes for those who don’t need to; lots of the hottest places and plenty of the finest lakes within the Dolomites are fairly near the highway and simply accessible. So you may choose and select precisely what you do or don’t need to see.
Driving within the Dolomites
Within the Dolomites, you may get pleasure from a couple of of probably the most scenic routes Europe has to supply. Driving throughout the mountains may look like an intimidating choice, particularly if it’s your first time in Italy, however driving within the Dolomites is definitely means simpler than you suppose!
Is it Secure to Drive within the Dolomites?
The roads are properly maintained with highway indicators in each German, Italian and generally English. All passages by means of the mountains are pretty straightforward to cross, apart from cases of heavy snowfall when you will see them often closed.
Within the Dolomites, individuals drive on the suitable aspect of the highway similar to in most different locations in Europe. The velocity restrict is 50 km/h in cities and 90 km/h on nation roads. So long as you retain an eye fixed out for gasoline indicators and toll roads, you might be positive to have a protected journey within the Dolomites.
NOTE: Make sure you be careful for cattle! They have an inclination to cross the roads often in lots of farmed areas, usually with out warning indicators.
Driver’s License & Autostrade (Toll Roads)
Toll Roads, or Autostrade are the widespread Italian highways, motorways, and freeways marked by easy-to-spot inexperienced indicators. You’ll want a full driving license or worldwide driving allow to journey on these by automotive, campervan, or trailer.
If you’re touring on a funds, you may keep away from these by taking different, longer routes–simply be certain your map is updated.
How Many Days Do You Want within the Dolomites?
As many as you can- and it nonetheless gained’t be lengthy sufficient! On this information, you’ll uncover varied choices for experiencing the fantastic thing about the Dolomites, whether or not it’s for a period of a someday go to, a weekend/ two days or 3-5 days. Intention to spend at the least 5 days for those who get pleasure from mountain climbing and plan to go on Alpine hikes or strive a biking journey.
Tips on how to plan YOUR excellent Dolomites Itinerary
Under, I’ll share our 3-day Dolomites itinerary, however earlier than I do, I need to share a few fast ideas that can assist you plan your personal journey.
- Resolve on what’s vital to you. With solely 3 or 4 days within the Dolomites, you will be unable to see all of it. Heck, you couldn’t see all of it in a whole week! There are simply too many issues to do. So choose a couple of issues which you REALLY need to see, and luxuriate in these.
- HIRE/ TAKE a car. The Dolomites are MADE for highway journeys. They’re excellent for picnics up mountains with unimaginable views, mountain climbing, late-night images and getting up early to see the dawn. This itinerary is designed for highway trips- taking public transport will take you for much longer, however there are alternatives for bus, practice, and shuttle service.
- For those who can, journey the Dolomites in a motorhome or campervan. That means, you may keep in some INCREDIBLE places for a lot much less cash than the value of a Dolomites lodge. It’s positively a cheaper choice and campervanning in Italy is superior anyway.
- Exit of season. Both Could/ June or September/ October. We went at the start of October, and it was the PERFECT time- clear days, cool nights with vivid stars and unimaginable foliage. The Dolomites in Autumn are breathtaking.
- Use Google Maps. We plotted all of the issues we needed to do and see on Google Maps, after which drove between them. It’s positively one of the simplest ways to plan a visit. Discover ways to use Google Maps to create an epic itinerary.
Our 3-4 day Dolomites highway journey itinerary & highlights
We didn’t imply to go to the Dolomites in any respect; we detoured on the way in which to Slovenia with none plan in any respect.
Due to this fact, we didn’t actually have a Dolomites itinerary deliberate and as a substitute simply crammed as a lot as we might into 3 days (technically, we have been there for 4 days however we spent one full day camped on the prime of Tre Cime- we’ll get to that shortly!)
One of the vital iconic photographs within the Dolomites- however is it REALLY value your time?
Italian Dolomites Itinerary Highway map
Map of our Dolomites highway journey itinerary
Right here’s the route planner for our Dolomites itinerary. You may see the roads we took. Under, I’ll break it down into day-by-day and mileage/ cease factors/ issues to see within the Dolomites on the way in which.
Our start line was Bolzano (A) and completed in Tre Cime (J). After all, you may add and amend this itinerary or do it in reverse order if you want.
NOTE- Not each level we stopped at is listed on the map above- Google Maps solely means that you can plot as much as 10 factors at one time for a route map. But it surely reveals all of the roads we drove over the three days so you need to use it as a Dolomites route planner in your personal highway journey.
Dolomites Route Planner
Sooner or later within the Dolomites itinerary- what to see, what to keep away from and learn how to plan your route!
Day One (or One Day within the Dolomites Itinerary!)
For those who solely have someday within the Dolomites, that is the route we might take- until you go to Tre Cime!
Dolomites One Day Itinerary & Route Planner
Bolzano (A) to Val di Funes (F) • 170km • 5h 40 minutes (together with stops)
For those who solely have someday within the Dolomites, that is the itinerary I might choose. It showcases among the finest views, roads, lakes, mountains and extra!
It’s a loop which is well driveable in daylight (each in summer time or winter) and is a implausible introduction to those stunning mountains. As a primary day introduction to the world, it was unimaginable.
Day One Route & Highlights
- Driving the Nice Dolomite Highway (SS241) from Bolzano to Canazei- 2 hours • 76km (Level A- Level C) READ: 9 important tricks to drive the Nice Dolomites highway
- Cease at Lake Carezza (Lago di Carezza) en-route (Level B)- that is the place we had a late breakfast (TOP TIP: get there early- even in October there have been plenty of tour buses arriving.)
- Sella Cross in direction of Ortisei (SS48, changing into SS242) – 3 hours • 76km (Level D)- stopped for lunch close to the highest the place you may see Alpe di Siusi- the most important alpine meadow in Europe
- Ortisei to Val di Funes, to see Santa Maddalena church (precisely referred to as St Johanns Church)- the little chapel within the subject and one of the photographed church buildings on the planet. Solely a brief drive at 40 minutes and arrived late afternoon • 32 km (D to E)
- Stayed in a single day close to Santa Maddalena (see precisely the place right here)
Day Two- Dolomites Journey weblog
Map and route planner for Dolomites roadtrip planning for 2 days
Weekend/ Two Day Dolomites Highway Journey Itinerary
For those who’re visiting the Dolomites for a weekend or two days, I might do Day 1 and Day 2 to showcase among the finest spots within the area. It’s finest to have an early begin and get as a lot accomplished as possible- it additionally means you may reap the benefits of areas within the free parking tons.
Val di Funes (A) to Lago di Braies (Lake Braies) (D) on the map above • 130km • 2h 30 minutes (NOT together with stops)
- Val di Funes to Ortisel (Col Rainer or Seceda Cable Automobile) – 31 minutes • 39km
- Gardena Cross (B/C) – 49 minutes • 32km
- Lago di Braies for night – 1h10 minutes • 59km
This lodge at Lago di Braies is RIGHT ON THE SHORE of the lake and could be excellent to remain in for those who don’t have a campervan.
For those who keep close by and it’s a transparent night time, getting as much as {photograph} the celebrities over the lake is a superb idea- it’s critically stunning.
Day Two – Highlights for the place to go to within the Dolomites
- Val di Funes- St Johann’s Church/ Santa Maddalena- READ : Val di Funes excellent itinerary.
- Col Raiser/ Seceda/ Alpe di Siusi Cable automotive–go to the highest of Seceda for those who can, however motorhome parking on the cable automotive station is a NIGHTMARE, so Col Raiser is simpler for vans to go to.
- Another choice is to go to Alpe di Suisi (referred to as Seiser Alm in German) on the alternative side- it’s the most important high-alpine pasture in Europe.
- Gardena Cross – this was breathtaking–properly value going this fashion as a substitute of the faster autoroute to Lake Braies.
- Lago di Braies – we arrived the night time earlier than and stayed in a single day. For those who’re not staying on web site, get right here REALLY early or you may be overrun by Instagram photograph hunters… many in wedding ceremony clothes… #notevenkidding.
Day Three- Dolomites Journey weblog
Tre Cime within the Dolomites- our absolute FAVOURITE place! 
Day Three Dolomites Highway Journey Itinerary
Lake Braies (A) to Tre Cime (D) • 73km • 2 hours
A shorter highway journey route at this time, with loads of fairly lakes and beautiful views. Don’t miss Tre Cime di Lavaredo– regardless of the expense it was our favorite a part of the Dolomites.
For those who can, keep up there for the night time, both in a camper or a tent or at a hostel. You gained’t remorse it!
Day Three Dolomites – Issues to do and issues to overlook
- Subsequent morning, stand up EARLY to see Lago di Braies at dawn for the very best expertise of this stunning lake. The excellent news is you’ll see the dawn and keep away from the tons of of Instagrammers!
- Lake Braies to Lake Misurina – 43 minutes • 35km (you move Lake Dobbiaco and Lake Landro on the way- each fairly and value a cease)
- Lake Misurina to Cortina d’Ampezzo – 23 minutes • 15km (missable- we solely went for gasoline and buying)
- Cortina to Tre Cime – 42 minutes • 23km
- Keep up Tre Cime for the night so you may see sundown and dawn. Each are beautiful. We selected to spend two nights up right here, however you don’t must for those who’re brief on time.
For those who can’t keep up Tre Cime itself (an additional value, however value it), this is among the closest lodges to Tre Cime– the views are SPECTACULAR!!
Some widespread questions concerning the Dolomites:
Dolomites Itinerary for non-hikers- do I HAVE to stroll or hike?
We didn’t do many BIG hikes in our 3-day Dolomites itinerary. On the 4th day, we spent it mountain climbing and exploring Tre Cime. However you may simply spend three or 4 days within the Dolomites and never hike in any respect for those who don’t need to.
When Ought to I go to the Dolomites?
In our opinion, Autumn is ideal. It’s really considered one of our favorite locations to expertise Autumn in Europe. The bushes are an attractive backdrop to the views, the climate continues to be heat sufficient to go exterior and but the customer numbers are a lot fewer than in summer time, which makes the entire expertise a lot better.
September/ October is gorgeous. Don’t come any later than mid-October as lots of the cable vehicles/ mountain passes within the Dolomites can be closed and never re-opened till April-ish. Snow and ice may cause difficulties reaching lots of the finest issues to do within the Dolomites throughout winter, so whereas it may be fairly, it’s possible you’ll not see every part you need to. (Listed here are some extra unimaginable locations to get pleasure from in Europe in October)
If Autumn isn’t an choice, try to go to Could or June, which is an ideal time to benefit from the spring flowers on the alpine meadows. The climate will simply be warming up, snow can be largely melted, and you must get many alternatives to benefit from the spectacular views!
The place can I go to the Dolomites?
The Dolomites are in Northern Italy, about an hour north of Lake Garda.
How do you get to the Dolomites from Venice/ from Milan?
For those who’re doing a Dolomites Highway Journey Itinerary (which we extremely advocate), you may simply get to the Dolomites from Venice or Milan.
Venice to Bolzano (the beginning of our Dolomites itinerary) will take you about 3 hours (267km)
Milan to Bolzano is about 3 and a half hours (278km)
How a lot does it value to go to the Dolomites?
One of many benefits to visiting an space with plenty of mountain climbing and images spots is that it may be visited fairly cheaply, particularly out of season.
Our 4-day Dolomites itinerary didn’t value us a lot in any respect:
Day One
- 4€ parking at Lake Carrezza, plus presents and memento postcard (we gather them)= 25€
- Gasoline = 70€
Day Two
- Breakfast and bread for lunch from bakery = 6€
- Col Raiser Cable Automobile- 40€ for two adults and a canine (canine free)
- Cake and low at prime of Col Raiser = 17€
- In a single day parking at Lake Braies = 8€ (15€ as of 2022)
Day Three
- Reward store at Lake Misurina = 35€ (purchased wonderful woolly slipper socks – value it!)
- Tre Cime for two nights with a motorhome = 70€
- Gasoline and LPG = 80€
Day 4
- Not a thing- we have been up Tre Cime! Though there’s a restaurant and a store there, we didn’t use it.
TOTAL prices for Dolomites highway journey = 351€
This doesn’t embrace journey to or from the Dolomites, or meals which we already had in our motorhome, however ought to provide you with an concept on what you might count on to spend by yourself highway journey.
The place to remain once you go to the Dolomites?
I’ve talked about it a few occasions already, however we extremely advocate visiting the Dolomites with a motorhome or campervan. That means, you may keep in campsites or use aires (referred to as Sostas in Italy.)
You may both carry your personal van, or rent one close by.
If that’s not an choice, rent a automotive and be ready to maneuver lodges every night time, so that you’re not losing time returning to a lodge again the place you began.
The lodges we advocate are:
Journey Necessities in your Dolomites Itinerary
Whether or not it’s a shock hailstorm in the midst of summer time or a spontaneous hike, it doesn’t harm to be able to face the surprising within the Dolomites. Learn on and make an inventory of the necessities that may can help you relish within the Alpine expertise, rain or shine!
What to Put on within the Dolomites
A rain jacket – ideally light-weight and insulated to accompany you in each exploration.
Solar hat & Sunscreen – relying on once you go to. Dolomite summers are delicate with common most temperatures in July and August not often spiking over 25°C – however, let’s face it, an surprising sunburn can actually smash a vacation so it’s finest to be ready.
Sturdy sneakers or sandals – capable of stand up to spontaneous hikes and the difficult cobblestone streets of the scenic cities alongside your journey.
What to Pack for the Dolomites
An influence financial institution, journey adaptor, mountain climbing sneakers, and your trusty reusable water bottle go a great distance in any trip and can show important in your outside adventures within the Dolomites. Visiting in Could or through the summer time months? You may need to pack your swimsuit, however provided that you’re courageous sufficient to strive the chilly waters in Lake Braies.
What Subsequent?
If you wish to see extra images of the gorgeous Dolomites, take a look at our Instagram.
There may be a lot to see within the space, it may be overwhelming attempting to slim all of it down. Listed here are a few of our favorite guides to assist:
We hope you discovered these itinerary concepts for the Dolomites helpful. You may discover these posts useful too:
