A first-timer’s guide to Italy’s most cinematic region — from mountain marvels and mirror-like lakes to alpine towns that feel like Wes Anderson sets!
If you’ve been planning a trip to Italy, you’d know one thing: there’s just so much to do. It gives you Milan’s fashion week, Rome’s ruins, and the Amalfi’s sun-drenched beaches. And just when you think the country has hit peak aesthetic… it casually hands you the Dolomites.
This unique stretch of northeastern Italy is where you’ll find a Michelin restaurant that serves cheese aged in a former bunker, a trailhead that begins next to a church from the 1200s, and cable cars that take you to some of Earth’s most beautiful wonders.
Ready to learn more? Read on for everything you need to know to start planning your Dolomites adventure!
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📌 Table of Contents: The Dolomites, Italy (2025)
- Why Visit the Dolomites, Italy
- Best Time to Visit the Dolomites
- How Many Days to Spend in the Dolomites
- How to Get to the Dolomites from Singaporeh
- Best Towns and Base Cities in the Dolomites
- Top 10 Things to Do in the Dolomites (2025)
- Sample Itineraries (Summer & Winter)
- Are the Dolomites Expensive?
- Where to Stay in the Dolomites (Luxury to Budget)
- FAQs About the Dolomites, Italy
Why Visit The Dolomites?
Think Italy is all about Amalfi beaches and Roman ruins? The Dolomites will flip the script with a natural wonderland of vertical cliffs, alpine meadows, and serene lakes.
Here’s why the Dolomites should be on your Italy itinerary:
- 🏔️ Jaw-dropping landscapes with iconic peaks like Tre Cime di Lavaredo and Seceda.
- 🌲 Endless outdoor activities — hiking, skiing, climbing, biking, and more.
- 🏘️ Charming alpine towns blending Italian, Austrian, and Ladin cultures.
- 🧘♀️ Great for slow travel, spa days, and off-the-grid getaways.
- 🍝 Alpine-Mediterranean cuisine, from mountain cheeses to Michelin stars.
The Dolomites don’t ask you to be adventurous. They just make it really, really hard not to be.
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Best Time To Visit The Dolomites, Italy
Image credits: Italia.it
The Dolomites are a year-round wonderland — but how you experience them will depend on when you go. Either way, each season feels like visiting a whole new place. Here’s a quick and easy rundown on what to expect:
🌷 Spring (April – June)
- Wildflowers bloom across the valleys
- Quieter trails and shoulder-season prices
- Some higher-altitude paths may still be snow-covered
- Best for peaceful drives and village-hopping
☀️ Summer (July – August)
- Peak hiking season with lush trails and blue skies
- High alpine huts (rifugi) are open for overnight stays
- Busy, but worth it if you want full access to trails and lakes
- Make reservations early — this is peak season!
🍁 Autumn (September – October)
- Cool and crisp air, fewer crowds
- Best time for photographers and leaf-peepers (it’s golden larches szn!)
- Some ski lifts and cable cars start to close by mid-October
- A romantic, slower-paced alternative to summer
❄️ Winter (December – March)
- If you love skiing, then we’ve got 2 words for you: Dolomiti Superski
- Ideal for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing
- Christmas markets + fairytale villages with snow-dusted rooftops
- Requires proper gear and cold-weather prep
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How Many Days Should You Spend In The Dolomites?
Image Credits: Unsplash
The Dolomites aren’t just a single mountain range. They’re a region dotted with tiny towns, scenic drives, cable cars and alpine lakes! For a well-rounded trip, we recommend 5 to 7 days in the Dolomites.
- 3 Days: If you’re rushing it and want just a taste — maybe one hike, one scenic lake, and one long drive
- 5 Days: For a mix of hiking, nature, and village hopping.
- 7+ Days: For deeper exploration – multiple hikes, ski days, and slow travel moments.
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How To Get To The Dolomites, Italy
Getting to the Dolomites isn’t as straightforward as getting off a plane and being all set. But it’s easier than it seems once you know the game plan.
There’s no one official “Dolomites airport”, because this region isn’t just one mountain, but a wide and wondrous alpine zone stretching across northern Italy, spilling into Trentino-Alto Adige, Veneto, and Friuli-Venezia Giulia. So you’ll likely be flying into a nearby city, then road-tripping into the peaks.
Closest airports to the Dolomites:
- ✈️ Innsbruck Airport, Austria (INN): ~2 hrs to Val Gardena
- ✈️ Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE): ~2.5 to 3 hrs to Cortina d’Ampezzo
- ✈️ Verona Villafranca Airport (VRN): ~3 hrs to Ortisei
- ✈️ Milan Bergamo (BGY) or Milan Malpensa (MXP): ~4 to 5 hrs away
From Singapore:
If you’re flying from Singapore, your best bet is a direct or one-stop flight to Milan or Venice, then renting a car for the most scenic (and flexible) journey into the Dolomites.
Pro-tip: Consider renting a car over taking public transport. Some cable car stations and hiking trailheads are remote, and public transport isn’t always convenient. And besides, don’t you want the freedom to pull over for spontaneous photo ops too?
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Closest Cities & Best Base Towns in The Dolomites
Congrats on making it to Northern Italy! Now, the next big question: where should you set up camp? Remember, the Dolomites are a constellation of alpine towns and valleys, so your choice can shape your whole trip.
Closest major city:
- Bolzano (Bozen) – The “capital” of South Tyrol, with a charming Austrian-Italian mix. A great entry point to the Dolomites, especially if you don’t want to drive straight into the mountains yet.
Other popular Dolomites base towns:
- Ortisei (Val Gardena) – Great for first-timers and families. Easy access to Alpe di Siusi, pretty pastel facades, and lots of restaurants and shops.
- Cortina d’Ampezzo – Chic, a bit boujee, but very scenic. Great for skiing in winter or dramatic hikes in summer.
- Canazei (Val di Fassa) – A bit less touristy, and perfectly placed for the Sella Ronda ski circuit and scenic drives.
- San Candido / Dobbiaco – Quaint, quiet, and near Lago di Braies and Tre Cime.
Where you stay depends on what you want to do. Hiking? Stay near the trailheads. Want postcard views from your balcony? Pick one of the alpine villages above the valley floor.
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Top 10 Things To Do in The Dolomites, Italy (2025):
🏔️ Dolomites Hiking
- Take the Ortisei Cable Car to Seceda Ridge
- Hike the Tre Cime di Lavaredo Circuit (South Tyrol)
- Ride the San Martino di Castrozza Cable Car
⛷️ Skiing in the Dolomites
- Ski the Sellaronda Loop (Val Gardena / Alta Badia / Arabba)
🚡 Scenic Drives & Cable Cars
- Drive the Great Dolomites Road (SS241)
- Cable Cars from Ortisei, San Martino, Arabba
🌲 Lakes & Nature
- Paddle at Lago di Braies (Braies Valley, South Tyrol)
- See the Reflections at Lago di Carezza (Val d’Ega)
- Explore Fanes-Sennes-Braies Nature Park (South Tyrol)
- Visit Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Alm) — Europe’s Largest Alpine Meadow
🌟 Unique Experiences
- Sleep in a Rifugio (Mountain Hut)
🏔️ Dolomites Hiking:
1. Take the Ortisei Cable Car to Seceda Ridge
Image Credits: taverna travels
For a truly local experience, book a night in a rifugio — a rustic mountain lodge with shared dorms, hearty dinners, and sunrise views. Options like Rifugio Lagazuoi are famous for their views and stargazing. Closer to Tre Cime, Rifugio Locatelli is a great base for hikers. Book early — beds go fast in summer and autumn!
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2. Hike the Tre Cime di Lavaredo Circuit (South Tyrol)
Image Credits: In A Faraway Land
One of the most famous hikes in the Dolomites — and for good reason. This loop trail takes you around three massive rock towers that are instantly recognisable. The path is fairly manageable, with incredible views and old WWI tunnels carved into the mountainside. It takes about 3–4 hours to complete, depending on your pace.
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3. Ride the San Martino di Castrozza Cable Car
Image Credits: Powederhounds
Want big views with minimal effort? This cable car whisks you from San Martino village up to the Pale di San Martino plateau, one of the Dolomites’ most dramatic landscapes. At the top, you’ll find hiking trails, a panoramic café, and a landscape that feels straight out of a sci-fi film.
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⛷️ Skiing in the Dolomites:
4. Ski the Sellaronda Loop (Val Gardena / Alta Badia / Arabba)
Image Credits: Crystal Ski
If you’re visiting in winter, the Sellaronda is a must. This 40km circular ski route connects four major valleys, and you can ski the whole loop in one day — no buses or lifts required (except chairlifts, of course). It’s a great way to experience multiple resorts and incredible snow-covered scenery without having to plan your logistics too much.
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🚡 Scenic Drives:
5. Drive the Great Dolomites Road (SS241)
Image Credits: The Gap Decaders
For one of Europe’s most scenic drives, follow the SS241 from Bolzano to Cortina d’Ampezzo. It winds through alpine villages, dense forests, and high mountain passes. Highlights include Passo Pordoi (great for a pit stop and short cable ride!) and Lago di Fedaia, a turquoise lake set beneath glacier peaks.
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🌲 Lakes & Nature:
6. Paddle at Lago di Braies (Braies Valley, South Tyrol)
Image credits: The Twirling Traveler
It’s probably the most photographed lake in the Dolomites, and it gets crowded fast. Arrive before 8 AM for the clearest water, quietest views, and best chance to rent a traditional wooden boat. Rowing across this glacier-fed lake is peaceful and photogenic, especially with the mountains towering behind you. Boat rental usually runs from May to October, but be sure to check online for the latest updates.
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7. See the Reflections at Lago di Carezza (Val d’Ega)
Image Credits: Dolomitiy
This small alpine lake is a quick stop, but totally worth it. On clear days, it perfectly reflects the Latemar mountain range, which can sometimes look too good to be true. You can walk the short trail around the lake in under 30 minutes. Go in the early morning or late evening for the calmest water (and best photos).
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8. Explore Fanes-Sennes-Braies Nature Park (South Tyrol)
Image Credits: Dolomiti
This park covers a quieter side of the Dolomites. You’ll find peaceful walking trails, alpine meadows, and a good chance of spotting marmots, deer, or golden eagles. It’s ideal for a laid-back day of picnicking, wildlife spotting, or just breathing in that crisp mountain air. For a gentle hike, try the trail to Lago di Limo or visit the peaceful Fodara Vedla plateau.
Dolomites, Italy Beginner’s Guide (2025):
9. Visit Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Alm) — Europe’s Largest Alpine Meadow
Image Credits: The Hidden Thimble
Perfect for both walking and winter sports, Alpe di Siusi offers wide open views, gentle slopes, and that classic Sound of Music vibe. In summer, the meadows bloom with wildflowers. In winter, it becomes a snowshoeing and beginner ski haven. Stop at Gostner Schwaige for speck platters, mountain cheese, and their popular hay flower soup.
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🌟 Unique Experiences:
10. Sleep in a Rifugio (Mountain Hut)
Image Credits: taverna travels
For a truly local experience, book a night in a rifugio — a rustic mountain lodge with shared dorms, hearty dinners, and sunrise views. Options like Rifugio Lagazuoi are famous for their views and stargazing. Closer to Tre Cime, Rifugio Locatelli is a great base for hikers. Book early — beds go fast in summer and autumn!
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Dolomites, Italy: Sample Itineraries
Looking for some inspo? Here’s a quick look at how you can plan your itinerary, whether you’re planning a spontaneous trip in the next couple of months or if you’re looking ahead into winter!
🌻 7-Day Summer Hiking Itinerary
Image Credits: Bolzano Tourist Board
- Day 1 – Arrive in Ortisei
- Grab a Hugo spritz at the iconic Cafe Adler and settle into your alpine accommodation. Maybe wander around town and admire the wood carvings that Val Gardena is famous for.
- Day 2 – Hike Seceda Ridgeline
- Take the Ortisei-Furnes-Seceda cable car and enjoy one of the most photogenic trails in the Dolomites. Stay for golden hour if you can — it’s like a Windows desktop wallpaper IRL (’90s babies wya?)
- Day 3 – Spend the day at Alpe di Siusi
- Lunch at Rifugio Bullaccia offers the best panini we’ve tried, with sweeping views over flower-strewn valleys. This vast plateau is great for both beginners and seasoned hikers. Pack a picnic or stop by a rifugio mid-hike.
- Day 4 – Roadtrip to Lago di Carezza
- Do a scenic drive through Val d’Ega. The lake is small but stunning, with mirror-like reflections and emerald waters. Nearby cafes offer apple strudel worth writing home about.
- Day 5 – Tre Cime di Lavaredo Loop
- One of the most famous hikes in the Dolomites — dramatic peaks, WWI tunnels, and views that stretch across the Austrian border. Expect a full day on your feet.
- Day 6 – Rest in Bolzano
- Time to rest those calves after a few days of hiking. Head to Bolzano for a little city culture — think castles, markets, and a chance to meet Ötzi the Iceman.
- Day 7 – Sunrise at Lago di Braies
- Take the boat out for a paddle as the morning mist clears — better to arrive early and beat the crowds. It’s touristy, but for good reason!
5-Day Winter Ski Itinerary
Image credits: Dolomites
- Day 1 – Cortina d’Ampezzo Welcome
- Italy’s original glam-ski town. Drop your bags, explore the village, and get fitted for your gear.
- Day 2 – Start with local slopes
- Ease in at Tofana or Faloria. Enjoy wide runs, stunning panoramas, and a side of pasta at a slopeside rifugio.
- Day 3 – Conquer the Sellaronda
- The Sellaronda loop lets you ski four valleys in a day. It’s iconic, panoramic, and 40km of pure snow bliss. Stop for Bombardino (a boozy eggnog drink) along the way — we promise it’ll help you survive the long pow day.
- Day 4 – Snowshoe or Sled
- Tired from skiing? Take a break and opt for a snowshoe trail through the forest, or hop onto a toboggan in Alta Badia. If you’re feeling extra fancy, go for a thermal spa and an aperitivo after.
- Day 5 – Wind-down in San Candido
- This postcard-perfect village is great for picking up souvenirs — think handmade wool, alpine teas, and DOP cheeses before you head off!
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Are The Dolomites Expensive?
Short answer: They can be. But don’t have to be. With smart planning, you can enjoy the Dolomites on a reasonable budget.
What to expect:
| Expenses | Approx. Cost |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | 80–150 EUR (~S$119.69–S$224.41) for mid-range hotels, 300+ EUR (~S$448.83+) for high-end spa resorts |
| Meals | A hearty rifugio lunch with wine might cost 15–25 EUR (~S$22.44–S$37.40) |
| Transport | Renting a car is around 40–70 EUR/day (~S$59.84–S$104.73) |
| Cable Cars | Expect 15–30 EUR (~S$22.44–S$44.88) per ride (some hotels include passes) |
| Ski Passes | Dolomiti Superski pass starts from ~74 EUR/day for adults (~S$110.71) |
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Where To Stay: Dolomites, Italy Hotels
Here’s a handy shortlist depending on your vibe, budget, and how close you want to be to the action.
💎 Luxury Escapes:
1. COMO Alpina Dolomites
Image Credits: COMO Group
If you’re after sleek, serene luxury with front-row mountain views, COMO Alpina ticks the box. Set right on the Alpe di Siusi plateau, it offers ski-in/ski-out access in winter and direct trails in summer. The rooms are calm and minimalist, the spa is massive, and the food’s a step up from your usual alpine fare (did we mention Michelin?) — all without losing that cosy, tucked-away feel.
Price: From ~S$1,429/night
Address: Compatsch, 62/3, 39040 Alpe di Siusi BZ, Italy
Explore rates here (Enjoy up to 7% cashback when you book with Trip.com via YouTrip Perks)
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2. Hotel Sonnwies (Lüsen, South Tyrol)
Image Credits: Hotel Sonnwies
A multi-award–winning family haven nestled at ~1,150 m in the Dolomites, Hotel Sonnwies combines cosy chalet charm with luxury comforts from its on-site organic farm to its indoor and outdoor pools. Whether you’re here for pony rides, a kids’ play paradise, spa time or guided hikes, it delivers a thoughtful alpine escape perfect for all ages!
Price: From ~€742/night (~S$1,113)
Address: Via Alter Rungger, 20, 39040 Luson BZ, Italy
Explore rates here
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🏡 Cosy Mountain Inns:
3. Hotel Angelo Engel (Ortisei)
Image Credits: Hotel Angelo
A cosy, family-run stay right in Ortisei — just minutes from cable cars that take you straight into the Dolomites. Heated pools, spa access, and guided hikes or ski tours make it an effortless base for mountain adventures!
Price: From ~S$559/night
Address: Via Petlin, 35, 39046 Ortisei BZ, Italy
Explore rates here (Enjoy an additional 10% off when you book with Agoda via YouTrip Perks)
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4. Miramonti Boutique Hotel (Merano)
Image Credits: holidayarchitecture
Perched above the Merano valley, Miramonti is a luxe mountain retreat where you can lounge in a heated, infinity-edge onsen pool overlooking the Dolomites. Expect infinity pools with valley views, serene spa facilities, and just 26 seats in its cliffside fine-dining room — ideal for those chasing quiet luxury in the mountains.
Price: From ~S$958/night
Address: Via S. Caterina, 14, 39010 Avelengo BZ, Italy
Explore rates here (Enjoy up to 10% off select hotels when you book with Expedia via YouTrip Perks)
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🛏️ Budget-Friendly Picks:
5. Garni Reutlingen (Selva di Val Gardena)
Image Credits: Booking.com
Situated mere steps from the Sotdlijia cable car in Colfosco, Garni Reutlingen blends alpine hospitality with value. Expect bright, mountain-view rooms, a hearty continental buffet, free parking and Wi‑Fi, plus cosy extras like a ski boot dryer, lounge and bar! Staff go the extra mile (think free summer bus tickets and local hiking tips), making it the kind of stay you leave feeling welcome rather than weary.
Price: From ~S$168/night
Address: Str. Col Pradat, 8, 39033 Colfosco BZ, Italy
Explore rates here (Enjoy an additional 10% off when you book with Agoda via YouTrip Perks)
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6. Dolomites Hotel La Meridiana (Moena)
Image Credits: Booking.com
Hotel La Meridiana in Moena combines a cosy abode, central location, and excellent value in one. With free parking, complimentary breakfast featuring pastries and local fare, and house amenities like bike and ski rentals, it’s an easy choice for travellers who want convenience without breaking the bank. Plus, its riverside setting and shared lounge add a touch of Alpine charm that’s hard to beat.
Price: From ~S$183/night
Address: Strada de Longiarif, 37, 38035 Moena TN, Italy
Explore rates here (Enjoy an additional 10% off when you book with Agoda via YouTrip Perks)
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FAQs About the Dolomites, Italy (2025):
Q: What are the Dolomites famous for?
A: They’re known for their dramatic limestone peaks, stunning alpine landscapes, and world-class skiing and hiking. Also: apple strudel, cow bells, and that iconic Instagram view from Seceda.
Q: Where are the Dolomites located?
A: In northeastern Italy, mostly in the Trentino-Alto Adige and Veneto regions. They’re part of the Southern Limestone Alps and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Q: When is the best time to visit the Dolomites for hiking?
A: Summer is best — think late June to early October. Wildflowers bloom in July, and September brings crisp air and fewer crowds.
Q: When is ski season in the Dolomites?
A: From early December to mid-April, depending on snow conditions. January and February offer the best powder and the least risk of rain.
Q: How do I get to the Dolomites from Singapore?
A: Fly to Milan, Venice or Innsbruck, then rent a car or take a train + bus combo to your base town.
Q: Are the Dolomites expensive to visit?
A: It can be, but doesn’t have to be. Lodging ranges from 80–600 EUR/night, depending on season and style. Meals and hikes are usually good value, and many scenic spots are completely free!
Ready For Your Once-in-a-Lifetime Getaway?
We hope this comprehensive guide has been useful in getting you acquainted with all that the Dolomites have to offer! And if you’re planning to hike, eat, or shop your way through Italy (or Europe), don’t forget to make use of your YouTrip Card to lock in the best EUR exchange rates — a little goes a loooong way in a high-key adventure like this.
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