The Most Epic Dolomites Highway Journey Itinerary (12 Days)

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The Most Epic Dolomites Highway Journey Itinerary (12 Days)


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In search of an epic journey via some of the beautiful mountain ranges on the planet? This Dolomites street journey itinerary is your excellent information!

I’ve pushed via the Dolomites 5 occasions through the years. And let me let you know, these mountains in Northeastern Italy are completely totally different from different elements of the Alps. The alpine meadows, jagged peaks, and charming cities are distinctive from the opposite European mountains I’ve been to. On this information, I’ve included all my favourite must-see stops and hidden gems you received’t discover in different guides.

I’ve crafted this 12-day itinerary to make sure you hit all of the highlights with out spending an excessive amount of time behind the wheel. From the bustling city of Bolzano to the serene meadows of Alpe di Siusi, prepare for an unforgettable street journey via one in all Italy’s most lovely areas!

The ultimate Dolomites road trip itinerary

Planning the Finest Dolomites Highway Journey

A 12-day street journey via the Dolomites is right to soak in all of the beautiful sights and experiences this area provides. This length permits you to discover at a relaxed tempo, hitting all the key highlights with out feeling rushed. You’ll have loads of time for scenic hikes, leisurely drives, and savoring the native delicacies–which tastes extra Austrian than Italian (extra on that later).

The Dolomites are within the Northeastern Italian Alps, extending from the Austrian border to the Venetian plains. It’s over 250 kilometers lengthy and covers elements of Veneto, Trentino Alto-Adige (additionally referred to as South Tyrol), and Friuli-Venezia Giulia.

The best start line for any Dolomites street journey is Bolzano (“Bozen” in German, the spoken language in South Tyrol). Nonetheless, provided that there aren’t many direct flights to Bolzano from main cities round Europe, some vacationers select to fly into Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE), Verona Villafranca Airport (VRN), or Innsbruck Airport (INN). To make this itinerary so simple as attainable, I’ll start the street journey in Bolzano, assuming that almost all vacationers will both fly or take a prepare there.

Right here’s every thing you could know to your Dolomites street journey in 2024. I’ve obtained an in depth itinerary, 12-day street journey map, prime spots to go to, and important tricks to make your journey clean and memorable.

Highway Journey Itinerary Map for the Dolomites

This map highlights all the important thing stops for my Dolomites street journey. I’ll dive into these wonderful locations in additional element under, providing you with suggestions and tips to make your journey as satisfying as attainable.

Days 1-2: Bolzano

Welcome to Bolzano (“Bozen”), your excellent gateway to the Dolomites! This charming city is a melting pot of Italian and Austrian cultures, nestled in a valley surrounded by vineyards and the dramatic peaks of the Dolomites.

Bolzano is understood for its sunny climate, incomes it the nickname “Gateway to the South”. It’s the proper spot to kick off your street journey, with quick access to lots of the prime cultural websites and nature spots. Bolzano is located within the westernmost a part of the area, however a lot of the Dolomites is inside a 1.5-hour automobile experience away. As such, it is smart to have Bolzano as your property base for a very good portion of the journey.

Right here’s what to look out for in Bolzano:

Extra Issues to Do in Bolzano

  • Rastenbach Gorge Hike: Situated within the Castelvecchio Forest in Caldaro, the Rastenback Gorge Hike (“Rastenbachklamm” in German) is a 3-mile hike with a excessive ROI. It’s obtained wonderful panoramic views of the valley and vineyards.
  • Messner Mountain Museum: This museum, a part of a sequence created by legendary mountaineer Reinhold Messner, is positioned in Sigmundskron Fortress. It provides a deep dive into the world of mountaineering and the cultures of mountain individuals.
  • By way of dei Portici: Wander via this historic road lined with medieval arcades, outlets, and cafes. It’s a terrific place to select up some native souvenirs or take pleasure in a gelato.
  • Bolzano Christmas Market: For those who’re visiting in the course of the winter months, don’t miss the enchanting Christmas market in Piazza Walther. It’s some of the well-known in Italy, providing handmade crafts, festive meals, and a magical vacation environment.
  • Talvera Park: An ideal spot for a calming stroll or picnic, particularly within the hotter months. The park stretches alongside the river and provides lovely views of the encompassing mountains.
  • South Tyrolean Wine Route: Also referred to as the Alto Adige Wine Highway, this is without doubt one of the oldest and most scenic wine routes in Italy. It spans 150 kilometers, beginning in Bolzano and protecting 70 wineries in 16 villages. The By way of Claudia Augusta is a good bike path alongside the Adige River!

Autumn is harvest season in South Tyrol, excellent for wine lovers. Take part in a neighborhood wine competition or go to throughout Törggelen, a standard celebration with chestnuts, new wine, and hearty meals!

Days 3-4: Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Alm)

Subsequent up on my Dolomites journey is Alpe di Siusi (“Seiser Alm” in German), Europe’s largest high-altitude alpine meadow. This beautiful space is ideal for street trippers who love scenic hikes. It’s additionally a preferred snowboarding spot within the winter.

Do you know that Alpe di Siusi can also be a UNESCO World Heritage website? It’s the perfect spot to unwind, absorb the great thing about the Dolomites, and luxuriate in some outside actions. That is actually one in all my favourite viewpoints in all of Europe!

Know earlier than you go: Solely people who find themselves staying in a single day on the Alpine pasture are allowed to journey there by automobile. Everybody else must both drive as much as Compaccio earlier than 9am (after they shut the street) or take the cable automobile from Siusi allo Sciliar (“Seis am Schlern”). For those who determine to drive to Compaccio early within the morning, observe that you simply’ll must take public transport or hike from there. To save lots of you the effort, I like to recommend staying in Seiser Alm. It’s definitely worth the hefty value, belief me!

Epic photo of Seiser Alm in the late summerEpic photo of Seiser Alm in the late summer
It’s arduous to not be blissful in Seiser Alm

Listed here are my favourite spots and actions in Seiser Alm:

Alpe di Siusi, Europe’s largest high-altitude alpine meadow, is perfect for scenic hikes and popular for skiing in winter.Alpe di Siusi, Europe’s largest high-altitude alpine meadow, is perfect for scenic hikes and popular for skiing in winter.
Alpe di Siusi, Europe’s largest high-altitude alpine meadow, is ideal for scenic hikes and widespread for snowboarding in winter.

Extra Actions in Alpe de Susi

Don’t miss out on attempting native dishes like speck (smoked ham) and knödel (dumplings). There are many mountain huts the place you possibly can take pleasure in a hearty meal.

Days 5-6: Val Gardena

Val Gardena is a valley within the coronary heart of the Dolomites. It’s part of the well-known Dolomiti Superski space, providing a few of the greatest snowboarding on the planet. In summer time, it’s a hiker’s paradise with trails that result in jaw-dropping viewpoints. This valley is wealthy in tradition, with a robust custom of wooden carving and native craftsmanship.

For me, Val Gardena is the very best space to remain within the western a part of the Dolomites. It’s solely 45 minutes to Bolzano and half-hour to Seiser Alm. For those who take a look at my Dolomites street journey map above, you’ll discover that Val Gardena is inside a brief drive to a lot of the iconic sights within the western Dolomites.

Relying on the time of 12 months, you may catch one in all the native festivals. In winter, the Christmas markets are a must-see, whereas summer time brings music festivals and cultural occasions!

Listed here are the very best spots to go to:

  • Ortisei: That is the most important village in Val Gardena, recognized for its colourful buildings and vigorous environment. Stroll via the pedestrian-friendly middle, go to the native outlets, and luxuriate in a espresso in one of many many cafes.
  • Seceda Ridge: Take the cable automobile from Ortisei or Santa Cristina as much as Seceda for a few of the most beautiful panoramic views within the Dolomites. From right here, you possibly can embark on a number of climbing trails, together with my favourite one to Rifugio Firenze.
  • Selva di Val Gardena: This village is a hub for outside actions. It’s a terrific start line for hikes in the summertime and snowboarding within the winter. My favourite hike is Alta By way of di Crespëina to Rifugio Puez, which begins from the Dantercëpies cable automobile. The village itself has a comfortable, welcoming vibe with loads of eating choices.
  • Sella Go: Drive or take a bus to the Sella Go for spectacular views and entry to some nice climbing trails. The drive might be fairly winding, so take it gradual and benefit from the surroundings.
  • Santa Cristina: A small village within the valley surrounded by scenic meadows and mountain peaks. From the Col Raiser cable automobile, you possibly can attain the summits of Fermeda and Sass Rigais. I extremely advocate this expertise, it’s definitely worth the 20€!
Val Gardena is rich in culture, known for its wood carving and craftsmanship.Val Gardena is rich in culture, known for its wood carving and craftsmanship.
Val Gardena is wealthy in tradition, recognized for its wooden carving and craftsmanship.

Extra Actions to Contemplate

  • By way of Ferrata Gran Cir: For those who’re trying to see one of many nicest sunrises within the Dolomites, contemplate climbing to the highest of Gran Cir, a mountain go between Val Gardena and Val Badia. The summit is at 2,592m, and the hike takes round 2-3 hours (4.5km). You probably have good footwear, ferrata tools isn’t wanted.
  • Alpe di Siusi Tour: For those who haven’t had sufficient of the beautiful Alpe di Siusi, it’s simply accessible from Val Gardena. A brief drive or bus experience will get you there for extra climbing or simply soaking within the views.
  • Monte Pana: This can be a great place for family-friendly actions. In summer time, you possibly can take pleasure in climbing and picnics, and in winter, there are wonderful newbie slopes for snowboarding and a enjoyable snow park for teenagers.
  • Conventional Meals: Don’t go away Val Gardena with out attempting some native specialties. Head to a standard restaurant for dishes like Gröstel (fried potatoes with meat and onions) and apple strudel. My favourite spot is Rifugio Emilio Comici, which provides wonderful views together with scrumptious meals.
  • Sassolungo Group Loop: This 10-mile hike close to Selva di Val Gardena is certainly a problem, however it’s nicely value it. From the Piza da Uridl, you’ll have beautiful views of Seiser Alm.

Val Gardena is known for its wooden carving. Go to a neighborhood workshop to see artisans at work and possibly decide up a singular memento. The Museum Gherdëina in Ortisei showcases this wealthy custom and different native historical past!

Days 7-8: Alta Badia

Situated on the opposite aspect of the Dolomiti Superski space, you’ll discover Alta Badia, which is dwelling to the oldest language and tradition within the Italian Alps. Ladin is spoken by some 30,000 native audio system all through South Tyrol, Italy.

This area is known for its dramatic landscapes, charming alpine villages, and top-notch mountain meals. Full of life festivals, traditions, and customs are nonetheless on full show right here!

For me, the spotlight of visiting right here is the climbing. The Alta Badia Excessive Route is 76 kilometers lengthy and takes roughly 4-6 days. There are a number of mountain huts alongside the route which can be excellent for an in a single day keep. Although when you’re on a decent schedule, spending 1-2 days in Alta Badia provides you with greater than sufficient time to expertise the area’s highlights.

Right here’s What to Look Out for in Alta Badia:

This area is a meals lover’s paradise, dwelling to a number of Michelin-starred eating places. Deal with your self to a meal at La Stüa de Michil or Ristorante La Siriola.

For the extra adventurous, attempt paragliding from Piz La Ila or Col Alt. The views from above are completely beautiful and it’s an expertise you received’t neglect. For those who’re into bike driving, I like to recommend coinciding your go to with SellaRonda Bike Day, which will likely be held on September 7, 2024.

Alta Badia, in the Italian Alps, is home to the ancient Ladin language, spoken by 30,000 people.Alta Badia, in the Italian Alps, is home to the ancient Ladin language, spoken by 30,000 people.
Alta Badia, within the Italian Alps, is dwelling to the traditional Ladin language, spoken by 30,000 individuals.

Days 9-10: Cortina d’Ampezzo

Sometimes called the “Queen of the Dolomites”, this stylish alpine city is known for its beautiful surroundings, world-class snowboarding, and vibrant après-ski scene. It’s my favourite dwelling base for exploring the jap a part of the Dolomites, so plan to spend at the least 2-3 nights right here.

Enjoyable truth: Cortina was the host of the 1956 Winter Olympics and also will co-host the 2026 Winter Olympics. Past its glamorous status, the city can also be surrounded by a few of the most dramatic peaks within the Dolomites. Cortina provides a mixture of outside adventures and splendid leisure, making it a incredible cease in your Dolomites street journey.

Listed here are my prime spots in Cortina d’Ampezzo:

  • Tre Cime di Lavaredo: These iconic three peaks are a must-see. Mountain climbing round Tre Cime is without doubt one of the prime issues to do within the Dolomites and provides a few of the most spectacular views. In summer time, the paths are excellent for climbing, and in winter, you possibly can discover the world on snowshoes.
  • Lago di Sorapis: This beautiful turquoise lake is accessible through a reasonably difficult hike. The reward is an unbelievable view of the pristine lake surrounded by rugged mountains. Highway Journey Tip: Begin early to keep away from the crowds and convey loads of water.
  • Lago di Braies (Pragser Wildsee): Often known as the “Pearl of the Dolomites” and one of many most lovely locations within the Dolomites, this lake is ideal for a leisurely stroll or a ship experience. The reflections of the mountains within the clear waters are completely mesmerizing. In all probability my favourite lake in all of Europe!
  • Faloria Cable Automobile: Take the cable automobile as much as Mount Faloria for panoramic views of the city and surrounding peaks. It’s a terrific spot for snowboarding within the winter and climbing in the summertime.
Tre Cime di Lavaredo offers spectacular views, perfect for summer hikes and winter snowshoeing.Tre Cime di Lavaredo offers spectacular views, perfect for summer hikes and winter snowshoeing.
Tre Cime di Lavaredo provides spectacular views, excellent for summer time hikes and winter snowshoeing.

 Extra Actions in Cortina

The place to Keep in Cortina

  • Cristallo, a Luxurious Assortment Resort & Spa: This luxury lodge provides elegant rooms, a full-service spa, and superb eating, all with beautiful views of the Dolomites.
  • Lodge Ambra Cortina: A boutique lodge within the coronary heart of Cortina, offering cozy lodging with a mix of conventional and trendy decor, excellent for a cushty keep.

Cortina is understood for its high-end boutiques and sports activities outlets. It’s a terrific place to select up some cool alpine gear earlier than hitting the slopes!

Days 11-12: Val di Fassa

Welcome to the grand finale of your Dolomites street journey! Val di Fassa, a picturesque valley within the Trentino province, is the proper place to wrap up your journey. It’s on the way in which again to Bolzano, making it a handy cease and providing you with a unique style of the Dolomiti!

This space is famend for its beautiful mountain views, wealthy Ladin tradition, and plethora of out of doors actions. It’s dwelling to the Avisio River and several other epic peaks, together with Catinaccio, Gruppo della Sella, Marmolada, and Sasso Piatto. You’ll additionally discover 7 ski resorts throughout the valley with some 200 kilometers of trails!

Professional Tip: Take a look at the Val di Fassa Card, which can provide you reductions on lifts, native transport, and entry to sights. It’s an effective way to economize whereas exploring. Native motels which can be partnered with the vacationer board will present it at no cost!

Add these spots to your Dolomites itinerary:

  • Sass Pordoi: Take the cable automobile from Passo Pordoi as much as Sass Pordoi, usually referred to as the “Terrace of the Dolomites.” The views from the highest are completely breathtaking, providing panoramic vistas of the encompassing peaks. In winter, it’s a terrific start line for snowboarding, and in summer time, it’s excellent for climbing and mountaineering.
  • Canazei: This vigorous village is a good base for exploring Val di Fassa. It provides a spread of lodging, eating places, and outlets. Canazei has a number of parking choices, however they will refill shortly throughout peak seasons, so arrive early.
  • Sella Go: A scenic drive via Sella Go is a should. The street winds via spectacular mountain surroundings and provides loads of alternatives to cease and take pictures. Seasonal Tip: In summer time, the go is widespread with cyclists, and in winter, it’s a key space for snowboarding.
  • Vajolet Towers: For the extra adventurous, hike as much as the Vajolet Towers, a bunch of hanging rock spires. The hike is difficult however provides unbelievable views. Begin early within the morning to keep away from the afternoon crowds and guarantee you may have sufficient daylight for the hike.
  • Karersee: Also referred to as Lago di Carezza, this is without doubt one of the most beautiful spots within the Dolomites. It’s well-known for its crystal-clear emerald waters and breathtaking mountain backdrop. Nestled amongst dense forests, this picturesque lake is a must-visit for its serene magnificence and vibrant colours that change with the sunshine.
Val di Fassa, is a picturesque stop with a different taste of the Dolomiti on your way back to Bolzano.Val di Fassa, is a picturesque stop with a different taste of the Dolomiti on your way back to Bolzano.
Val di Fassa is a picturesque cease with a unique style of the Dolomiti in your means again to Bolzano.

Extra Spots to See in Val di Vassa

Make the most of the mountain huts (rifugi) scattered all through the world. They provide meals, snacks, and typically in a single day lodging. Rifugio Contrin and Rifugio Fuciade are widespread decisions with beautiful views.

Experience Again to Bolzano

After soaking in the great thing about Val di Fassa, it’s time to go again to Bolzano. The journey again is simply as scenic, and there are a few routes you possibly can take to take pleasure in probably the most of this picturesque panorama. Right here’s how you can make your experience again to Bolzano clean and satisfying.

Urged Routes:

Route 1: By way of Sella Go and Gardena Go

This route takes you thru the beautiful Sella Go and Gardena Go, providing a few of the greatest mountain views within the Dolomites. The roads might be winding and steep, so take it gradual and benefit from the views. There are many pull-off spots for pictures.

Should-See Stops:

Route 2: By way of Carezza Lake

This route takes you previous the attractive Carezza Lake, also called Lago di Carezza, with its emerald-green waters. The route is comparatively easy however can get busy throughout peak seasons. Begin early to keep away from visitors and get the very best gentle for pictures.

Should-See Stops:

Issues to Contemplate When Planning Your Highway Journey

Earlier than you pack your baggage and hit the street, listed below are a number of key issues to think about earlier than setting off on a 12 day journey via the Dolomites.

The place to Begin Your Highway Journey

Beginning your Dolomites street journey in Bolzano is a incredible thought. Also referred to as Bozen, this vibrant Italian metropolis serves as the proper gateway to the Dolomites. Bolzano is well-connected by prepare, automobile, and even flights, with a small airport making it simply accessible from main cities like Milan or Venice, making it one of many prime locations to stay and go to in Italy.

You’ll discover loads of automobile rental choices in Bolzano, making it handy to select up your automobile and hit the street. Spend a day or two right here to acclimate, particularly when you’re not used to increased altitudes.

From Bolzano, you may have entry to a few of the most scenic drives into the center of the Dolomites, together with routes via Val Gardena and Alpe di Siusi. These routes provide breathtaking views and are the proper begin to your journey.

Finest Time of 12 months for a Dolomites Highway Journey

Selecting the best time of 12 months to your Dolomites street journey could make an enormous distinction. Right here’s a fast information that will help you determine:

Variety of Days for a Dolomites Highway Journey

What number of days you’ll want for a Dolomites street journey will depend on your locations, actions, and journey tempo. To really benefit from the Dolomites, a street journey of at the least 10 to 12 days is really useful.

Different Locations to Contemplate on Your Highway Journey

You probably have extra time and wish to see much more of what the Dolomites have to supply, contemplate visiting these different unbelievable spots:

FAQs About Dolomites Highway Journeys

Listed here are some widespread questions (and solutions) about how you can plan a Dolomites street journey.

What does a 7-day journey itinerary for the Dolomites appear to be?

For those who solely have per week to discover the Dolomites, listed below are the must-see stops you’ll wish to embrace on a street journey:

  • Day 1: Begin your street journey in Bolzano. Discover the charming city, go to the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology to see Ötzi the Iceman, and stroll via Piazza Walther.
  • Day 2: Head to Alpe di Siusi. Benefit from the scenic cable automobile experience, hike via Europe’s largest high-altitude alpine meadow, and take within the beautiful views of the encompassing peaks.
  • Day 3-4: Journey to Val Gardena. Go to the villages of Ortisei and Selva, hike as much as the Seceda ridge for panoramic views, and discover the native wooden carving traditions.
  • Day 5: Drive to Alta Badia. Take the Lagazuoi cable automobile for breathtaking views, discover Corvara, and savor gourmand meals at one of many Michelin-starred eating places.
  • Day 6: Proceed to Cortina d’Ampezzo. Go to Tre Cime di Lavaredo, hike to Lago di Sorapis, and discover the city’s vibrant middle.
  • Day 7: End your journey in Val di Fassa. Take the cable automobile as much as Sass Pordoi, hike across the Vajolet Towers, and calm down on the thermal baths in Pozza di Fassa.

The place precisely are the Dolomites?

The Dolomites are located primarily within the provinces of Belluno, South Tyrol, and Trentino. They stretch throughout the areas of Veneto, Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol, and Friuli Venezia Giulia. The Dolomites prolong from the Adige River within the west to the Piave Valley within the east. They’re bordered by the Puster Valley within the north and the Sugana Valley within the south.

Opposite to widespread perception, Trento and Merano should not a part of the Dolomites. Whereas they’re positioned within the Trentino-Alto Adige area and are near the Dolomites, these cities themselves should not throughout the Dolomite vary. That’s the reason I didn’t embrace these locations in my Dolomites journey itinerary.

How are you going to see the Dolomites in 5 days?

In search of a 5-day street journey itinerary for the Dolomites? Right here’s an environment friendly but satisfying plan to take advantage of your time:

What are some scenic routes to soak up the Dolomites?

Are there any toll roads within the Dolomites?

Whereas there aren’t many toll roads particularly within the Dolomites, you may encounter tolls on main highways main into the area. Be ready with money or a bank card for comfort. As an example, when you’re driving from Venice or Milan, you’ll use toll roads.

What kind of automobile must you use to your street journey?

For a Dolomites street journey, it’s greatest to make use of a automobile that handles nicely on mountainous and winding roads. A compact SUV or a mid-size automobile with good gas effectivity and dependable efficiency on steep inclines and sharp turns is right. In the course of the winter months, be sure that your automobile is provided with winter tires or snow chains, as roads might be icy and snowy.