Planning a road trip through the Dolomites is one of the best ways to experience the dramatic peaks, alpine lakes, and scenic mountain passes of northern Italy. This 10 day Dolomites road trip itinerary guide covers the perfect self-drive route through the most beautiful spots in the region. It includes iconic viewpoints, charming villages, and unforgettable hikes.
This guide also offers practical tips, driving advice, and a day-by-day plan to help you organize the ultimate adventure in the Dolomites. It will be a trip that will stay in your memory forever!
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT THE DOLOMITES
The Dolomites are more than just dramatic peaks and postcar-perfect lakes. Beyond the famous hikes and scenic drives, this mountain ranges has a fascinating history and unique geology. Here are some interesting facts that make the Dolomites truly special:
- The Dolomites are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In 2009, the UNESCO recognized the Dolomites as a World Heritage Site for their exceptional beauty and geological importance.
- There are three different languages spoken in the region. The Dolomites sit in a culturally unique region of northern Italy. All around the region you’ll hear Italian and German spoken interchangeably. In some valleys, locals also speak Ladin, an ancient Rhaeto-Romance language.
- The Dolomites were a frontline in World War I. The mountain range was part of the front line between Italian and Austro-Hungarian forces. Soldiers fought at extremely high altitudes, carving tunnels into the mountains and building via ferratas that are still used today.
- It’s one of the best road trip regions in Europe. Thanks to its winding alpine passes like Passo Giau and Passo Gardena that connect iconic spots within short driving distances.
THE ULTIMATE DOLOMITES ROAD TRIP ITINERARY
This is the itinerary we did during our 12 day visit to the Dolomites. Since we are passionate about hiking and being in nature our itinerary focused mainly in hiking. However, there are many other things you can do in the Dolomites.
This is itinerary is meant to be an inspiration to help you plan your visit to the Dolomites. I always recommend you adapt it to your own interests and fitness level, and of course the time you have.
DAY 1 - GET TO THE DOLOMITES
Route: Fly to Venice (Flight: Brussles – Venice)
Route: From Venice to Hotel Croda Rossa (Distance: 186 km; Time: 2 hours and 47 minutes)
Hotel: Hotel Croda Rossa
The first day of the trip is all about getting to the Dolomites. There are many different possibilities to get to the region but most common one is flying to Venice, where you will rent a car and drive to the Dolomites.
In our case, we drove directly from Belgium to the Dolomites and combined our trip with a few stops in Austria but in this blog, I will explain the most common option which is flying to Venice.
STOP 1: FLY TO VENICE AND PICK UP RENTAL CAR
Venice Marco Polo Airport is the closest airport to the Dolomites, which makes it the most chosen option for people who want to visit the Dolomites.
Book your flights with Skyscanner.
Once you’ve landed in Venice and picked up your luggage, head to the rental car office to pick-up your car. Road in the Dolomites are very well maintained, so you don’t need any specific car. However, some mountain passes can be quite steep, so a car with enough power might be interesting.
Book your rental car with Auto Europe.
STOP 2: DRIVE TO THE DOLOMITES
After you’ve picked up your rental car, it is time to drive to the Dolomites. Depending on the time you have, you might consider doing some stops along the way.
I highly recommed stopping at Belluno, a charming and often overlooked town that makes for a great starting point for exploring the Dolomites. Walking around the town you’ll finde pastel-colored buildings, quiet piazzas, and views of the surrounding peaks. One of the most famous views of Belluno is the one you’ll get from the southern side of Ponte della Vittoria/Piave River where you’ll get to see the skyline of the town with the Dolomites in the back.
Other interesting options can be Pieve di Cadore and San Vito di Cadore.
STOP 3: CHECK IN AT YOUR ACCOMMODATION AND RELAX
Once you’ve made it to your accommodation, check-in and relax for the rest of the day.
We spent the most peaceful evening admiring the view of Mount Cristallo from the garden of our hotel.
DAY 2 - TRE CIME DI LAVAREDO AND CADINI DI MISURINA
Route: From Hotel Croda Rossa to Rifugio Auronzo and Lago di Misurina (Distance: 27,k km; Time: 1 hour and 14 min)
Hotel: Hotel Croda Rossa
Walking: 17,68 km
Rise and shine! If you wan to hike in the Dolomites, waking up early is a must! The area is very popular, especially during the summer months and parking lots fill up quite fast.
STOP 1: DRIVE TO RIFUGIO AURONZO
Both the Tre Cime di Lavaredo and Cadini di Misurina hikes begin at Rifugio Auronzo, so the first thing you need to do today is get to Rifugio Auronzo.
Important: Since 2025, you need to book a parking spot in advance if you want to get to Rifugio Auronzo by car. You can book your parking spot here.
STOP 2: TRE CIME DI LAVAREDO HIKE
It is time to start with one of the most iconic hikes in the Dolomites, Tre Cime di Lavaredo Hike. This hike will take you around the famous three peaks that give the name to this hike. The full loop is about 11 km, including a short detour to Laghi dei Piani next to Rifugio Locatelli.
The hike is a moderate one which makes it accessible to most people. You should plan to spend between 3 and 5 hours to enjoy this hike at a relaxed pace.
Along the hike, you’ll see panoramic views of the peaks from different angles, historic World War I caves that also give beautiful photo opportunities, and wide alpine valleys. You’ll definitely want to slow down and enjoy the magnificent views in front of you!
READ MORE: Tre Cime di Lavaredo Hike – Complete Guide
STOP 3: CADINI DI MISURINA HIKE
After Tre Cime di Lavaredo Hike, you should also complete Cadini di Misurina hike which also starts at Rifugio Auronzo. The trail is relatively short at around 3 to 4 km round trip, but it should not be underestimated. Some sections are narrow with steep drop-offs, so steady footing is important. The path follows a ridgeline that opens up to breathtaking panoramic views over the valleys below.
It will take you between 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on how much you stop for photos. And trust me, you’ll want to stop every few meters!
Good to know: If you want to get your photo at the super famous viewpoint with the jagged peaks behind you, you’ll have to wait in line for a while. But don’t worry, if you’re short on time or you simply just don’t want to wait, you can take great photos from different spots of the hike.
STOP 4: LAGO DI MISURINA HIKE
To finish your day, I recommend that you walk around Lago di Misurina, a beautiful alpine lake that sits at 1,754 meters and it’s surrounded by dramatic peaks.
The walking path circles the lake and it is mostly flat, which will be a relief after your day of hiking. The full loop is about 2.5 km and takes around 45 minutes to one hour at a relaxed pace. Along the way, you will pass small beaches, wooden docks, and open viewpoints that are ideal for photos.
Next to the lake, you’ll find several restaurants where you can also enjoy a delicious dinner.
DAY 3 - LAGO DI BRAIES, LAGO DI DOBBIACO AND CIMA TOFANA
Route: From Hotel Croda Rossa to Lago di Braies, Lago di Dobbiaco and Cortina (Distance: 94,9 km; Time: 2 h and 3 min)
Hotel: Hotel Croda Rossa
Walking: 8,57 km
STOP 1: LAGO DI BRAIES
Lago di Braies is one of the most famous and photogenic lakes in the Dolomites. Known for its turquoise water and dramatic mountain backdrop, this lake looks almost unreal, especially on a calm morning when the peaks reflect perfectly on the lake’s surface.
Most people come here to rent one of the traditional wooden rowing boats but I also recommend hiking around the lake. There is a trail that circles the lake of almost 4 km. Most of the path is wide and easy to follow, with a mix of gravel walkways and forest sections. On side of the loop is flatter and more accessible, while the other side has a few short uphill sections. The full circuit takes around 2 hours to complete at a relaxed pace.
Once you have completed your hike, or actually before if you want to avoid longer waiting lines, you can also rent one of the rowing boats to see the lake from a different perspective.
STOP 2: LAGO DI DOBBIACO
Lago di Dobbiaco, also known as Toblacher See, is a peaceful alpine lake located next to Dobbiaco town. Surrounded by forest and dramatic peaks, it feels quieter and less crowded than its super famous neighbor Lago di Braies.
Here, I also recommend going for a short walk around the lake. There is a flat walking trail circles the lake and stretches for about 2.7 km. The loop is well maintained and suitable for all fitness levels, making it perfect for a relaxed stroll. Along the way, you will find informational boards as well as benches. You can just sit down and enjoy the views whenever you want.
Since it was quite calm we had a picnic lunch at this lake and even took a little nap in the sun in one of the benches.
STOP 3: CIMA TOFANA - FRECCIA NEL CIELO CABLE CAR
Next stop is Tofana di Mezzo, one of the most impressive peaks in the Dolomites that rises high above Cortina d’Ampezzo. At 3,244 meters, it offers amazing panoramic views over jagged mountain ranges, deep valleys, and alpine meadows. And the best part is that you don’t need to be an experienced mountaineer to visit it! Reaching the summit is surprisingly accesible thanks to a cable car.
The Freccia nel Cielo cable car takes you from Cortina up to the summit in three stages. The ride itself is part of the experience, as the landscape opens up dramatically with every ascent. Within a short time, you go from town level to high alpine terrain with breathtaking views in every direction.
At the top, you can walk around the viewing platforms, enjoy a coffee at the mountain restaurant, and take in one of the most spectacular panorams in the region. Just be careful and stay within the designated walking areas.
Tofana di Mezzo was one of my favorite parts in the Dolomites!
STOP 4: CORTINA D'AMPEZZO
To end your day, you can visit Cortina d’Ampezzo, one of the most famous towns in the Dolomites. It is often called the “Queen of the Dolomites” because it combines mountain charm with a touch of elegance. It is known for its scenic setting, stylish boutiques, and lively atmosphere, especially during peak summer and winter seasons.
We just wandered around its beautiful streets, did some window shopping and had dinner at one of the many restaurants available.
DAY 4 - LAGO DI SORAPIS AND DOBBIACO
Route: From Hotel Croda Rossa to Passo Tre Crocci and Dobbiaco (Distance: 53,7 km; Time: 1 h and 6 min)
Hotel: Hotel Croda Rossa
Walking: 12,7 km
STOP 1: HIKE TO LAGO DI SORAPIS
Lago di Sorapis is one of the most stunning turquoise lakes in the Dolomites. Its bright milky-blue color, set against the limestone peaks, makes it feel almost unreal. Unlike some of the more easily accessible lakes in the region, reaching Lago di Sorapis requires a rewarding hike, which keeps it feeling a bit more adventurous.
The most popular route starts from Passo Tre Croci and is a bit over 12 km round trip (if you manage to find a parking spot a the trailhead). The trail is considerate moderate to difficult with a combination of forest paths, rocky sections, and a few exposed streches. While no technical climbing is required, steady footing and proper hiking shoes are important. It is also important to start your hike really early as this hike is very popular.
When you arrive at the lake, the view is unforgettable. The bright water contrasts beautifully with the surrounding cliffs, especially on a sunny day.
READ MORE: The beautiful Lago di Sorapis hike
STOP 2: DOBBIACO
Dobbiaco is another cute alpine town surrounded by forests and mountain peaks. It is also known by its German name Toblach and it reflects the unique cultural blend of South Tyrol, where both Italian and Austrian influences shape the architecture, cuisine, and atmosphere.
A walk through the town will allow you to discover cozy hotels and traditional restaurants. It is the perfect way to relax and enjoy delicious food after a day spent in the mountains.
DAY 5 - CINQUE TORRI AND LAGO LIMIDES
Route: From Hotel Croda Rossa to Passo Falzarego and return (Distance: 70,1 km; Time: 1 hr and 48 min)
Hotel: Hotel Croda Rossa
Walking: 14,11 km
The fifth day of our road trip is going to be an intense day of hiking. There are 4 hikes on the planning! But don’t worry, they are all short and easy ones.
STOP 1: CINQUE TORRI
The Cinque Torri is one of the most distinctive rock formations in the Dolomites. Translated as “Five Towers”, this group of limestone pillars rises from a grassy alpine plateau and creates one of the most unique landscapes in the region and a must-stop on your Dolomites road trip.
The area is easily accessible via a chair lifth from Bai de Dones hut. Once at the top, there are several well-marked trails that take your around the towers, offering constantly changing perspectives of the rock formations.
Beyond the views, Cinque Torri also has historical significance. The area was part of the front line during World War I, and you can still see some of the trenches and tunnels along the trail.
READ MORE: Hiking around Cinque Torri
STOP 2: RIFUGIO AVERAU AND RIFUGIO NUVOLAU
Right next to the Cinque Torri, you will find two fo the most scenic mountain huts in the Dolomites: Rifugio Averau and Rifugio Nuvolau. So once you are done exploring the Cinque Torri, it is time to tackle this slightly more challenging hike.
Rifugio Averau sits at 2413 meters and is known for its excellent food and spacious terrace that offers views over the Cinque Torri and the surrounding peaks. The hike up is moderate but not too demanding.
Rifugio Nuvolau is a bit higher at 2575 meters and is the oldest mountain hut in the Dolomites. The stretch between Rifugio Averau and Nuvolau is steeper and a bit more challenging, but the reward is one of the most spectacular 360 degree views in the region.
STOP 3: LAGAZUOI TUNNELS
Our next stop in the Dolomites are the Lagazuoi Tunnels, which were carved into the mountain during World War I by Italian troops. They were used in the high-altitude conflict against Austro-Hungarian forces.
To visit these tunnels, you’ll first have to take the Lagazuoi cable car. Once at the top, the view are spectacular with panoramas stretching across the surrounding peaks. From here, you’ll descend on foot through the tunnels. A headlamp is strongly recommended, as the tunnels are steep, uneven, and very dark in some sections.
STOP 4: LAGO LIMIDES
We will finish the day with a short hike to Lago Limides, a small but very scenic alpine lake. The hike to reach the lake is short and relatively easy making it a a very rewarding trek.
On calm days, the water mirrors perfectly the surrounding formations, creatin one of the most photogenic scenes in the area. In addition, since it is not crowded at all it is the most ideal spot to end your day in a relaxing way.
DAY 6 - CRODA DA LAGO HIKE
Route: From Hotel Croda Rossa to Ponte de Ru Curto and return (Distance: 56,4 km; Time: 1 hr and 28 min)
Hotel: Hotel Croda Rossa
Walking: 14 km
STOP 1: CRODA DA LAGO HIKE
Croda da Lago was another of my favorite hikes in the Dolomites. It offers a combination of dramatic rock formations, alpine meadows and serene lake views. The area is not too crowded which feels wild and remote.
The hike around Croda da Lago typically includes stops at Lago Federa, a picturesque alpine lake nestled at the base of peaks which then continues through the Croda da Lago ridge and wildflower-filled meadows.
The trail is a bit challenging, with some steep sections and rocky paths. This is particularly the case until you reach Forcella de Formin, but once you reach it, you are rewarded with some impressive views. This route offers a quintessential Dolomites experience.
This is the only activity for the day so just take it slow and enjoy the beauty of the area. You will not regret it!
DAY 7 - PASSO GIAU, MARMOLADA AND SANTA CRISTINA IN VAL GARDENA
Route: From Hotel Croda Rossa to Santa Cristina Val Gardena (Distance: 104 km; Time: 2 hr and 50 min)
Walking: 14 km
The seventh day of our road trip will be an intense one. Not only are we changing from the eastern to the western Dolomites, but we are also going to be driving through some of the most scenic mountain passes you’ve ever seen. It is a day specifically designed for those who love driving in the mountains.
STOP 1: PASSO GIAU
Our first stop of the day will Passo Giau, sitting at 2236 meters. This mountain pass is one of the most scenic ones in the Dolomites offering panoramic views, winding roads, and dramatic mountain landscapes.
Park your car at the top of the mountain pass and from there, we will do a short hike to Torre Anna viewpoint. Torre Anna is a striking rock tower that rises sharply from the surrounding terrain, making it a popular landmark for hikers and climbers.
STOP 2: MARMOLADA
Marmolada is the highest peak in the Dolomites, standing at 3343 meters. To reach it, you will have to take the Malga Ciapela cable car. The ride offers panoramic views of valleys and the surrounding peaks.
At the top, you can visit the Marmolada Glacier or visit a World War I museum. This is not a hiking stop but just a relaxing stop to admire the views from the top of the Dolomites!
STOP 3: Passo fedaia
Next is time to head to Passo Fedaia, a mountain pass located at the foot of Marmolada. Sitting at 2057 meters, the pass connects the regions of Veneto and Trentino and offers nice views of Marmolada’s towering cliffs.
One of the highlights of Passo Fedaia is Lago di Fedaia, a long alpine reservoir that stretches acros the valley below the mountain. Next to the parking lot, you will also find a mountain hut where you can get a nice lunch.
STOP 4: Passo SELLA
The last mountain pass of the day is Passo Sella, located between Val Gardena and Val di Fassa and sitting at 2218 meters. From it, you will get breathtaking views of the impressive Sella Group and the iconic Sassolungo which dominate the landscape.
There are a few hiking trails and Via Ferratas that start at the Sella Pass, but our stop is not about hiking. It is about relaxing and enjoying the beautiful views that you can get from it.
STOP 5: SANTA CRISTINA IN VAL GARDENA
To finish the day, we’ll go for a walk around Santa Cristina, a quiet but charming alpine village that sits beneath the Sassolungo massif. A short walk through this village will allow you to admire its small church and the traditional Tyrolean architecture.
Santa Cristina is also a fantastic place to have dinner and enjoy some delicious food before you end your day.
DAY 8 - COL RAISER - SECEDA - FORCELLA PANA HIKE
Route: From Smart Hotel Saslong to Col Raiser and Ortisei and return (Distance: 14 km; Time: 25 min)
Walking: 13 km
STOP 1: SECEDA HIKE
On the 8th day, it is time to start exploring the western Dolomites, with its most iconic ridgeline, Seceda. To do so, we will do a hike between Col Raiser, Seceda, Forcella Pana, and Rifugio Firenze. This trail offers a perfect mix of dramatic ridgelines, rolling alpine meadows, and sweeping views across the Dolomites.
To reach Seceda you can take a cable car from Ortisei but this cable car is on the expensier side. To save some money, we will take the Col Raiser cable car which is a bit less expensive. From there, the trail gradually climbs through beautiful meadows toward Seceda, famous for its sharp, jagged ridgeline that drops steeply into the valley below. The views here are breathtaking, with layers of peaks stretching far into the distance.
From Seceda, we will continue the hike toward Forcella Pana, where you will find fewer crowds but a lot of cows in the summer months. The route then will lead you to Rifugio Firenze, a perfectly located mountain hut where you can enjoy a drink with a view.
This hike is moderately challenging but if you’re up for it, you will enjoy a full day of unforgettable alpine scenery.
STOP 2: ORTISEI
In the late afternoon, head to Ortisei, one of the most picturesque towns in Val Gardena. With its colorful buildings, wooden balconies, and flower-filled streets, Ortisei has a charming and welcoming atmosphere.
The pedestrian city center is full of boutique shops, traditional restaurants which makes the perfect destination for an evening stroll. Just explore its streets and enjoy a well-deserved and delicious dinner.
DAY 9 - ALPE DI SIUSI AND CASTELROTTO
Route: From Smart Hotel Saslong to Siusi, Castelrotto and return (Distance: 36,8 km; Time: 54 min)
Walking: 12 km
STOP 1: ALPE DI SIUSI
Alpe di Siusi is the largest high-altitude alpine meadow in Europe and one of the most beautiful landscapes in the Dolomites. Wide rolling pastures stretch toward dramatic peaks, creating a soft and open constrat to the sharp rock formations that define much of the region. It is one of the most photogenic areas you can include in your road trip.
The meadow sits benath the impressive Sassolungo and Sciliar massifs, which dominate the skyline. Numerous hiking and cycling trails cross the plateau, ranging from easy panoramic walks to longer alpine routes. All you have to do is choose a hike based on how tired you are at this point of the trip. In our case, we chose to do a gentle but still beautiful walk around the Alpe di Siusi since our legs were starting to be tired after so many days hiking.
There are three different options to reach Alpe di Siusi. The first one is by taking a cable car from Ortisei that will bring you directly to the meadow. Alternatively, you can also take a second cable car from Siusi village. Finally, it is also possible to drive to Comptasch and park your car there but if you want to do so, you’ll have to do it either before 9:00 or after 17:00. Between these hours, the road to Compatsch is only accessible for people with an accommodation reservation.
STOP 2: CASTELROTTO
Castelrotto is another charming village in the Dolomites, located just below the expansive meadows of Alpe di Siusi. With its pastel-colored houses, traditional balconies, and impressive church tower rising above the main square, Castelrotto is the perfect stop to include after a day of exploring Alpe di Siusi.
Castelrotto has a strong Tyrolean character, reflected in its food, festivals, and architecture. Just get lost through its cute streets or grab a bite while you admire your surroundings.
DAY 10 - ADOLF MUNKEL TRAIL AND VAL DI FUNES
Route: From Smart Hotel Saslong to Zanser Alm and return (Distance: 86,9 km; Time: 2hs and 1 min)
Walking: 18 km
STOP 1: ADOLF MUNKEL TRAIL
The Adolf Munkel Trail is another scenic and rewarding hikes in the Dolomites. Running along the base of the Odle Group, this trail offers constant views of sharp, towering peaks that rise steeply above alpine forests and meadows. It is a perfect hike if you want impressive scenery without extreme elevation gain.
The trail starts next to Zannes Hut in Val di Funes and follows a well-marked path through peacefull woodland before opening up to wide panoramic viewpoints. Along the way, there are several places to stop and admire the rugged north faces of teh Odle peaks.
Continuing toward Brogles Hut, the landscape becomes more open and pastoral. The hut sits in a beautiful alpine setting and is the ideal plea for a lunch break with traditional South Tyrolean food. The combination of dramatic mountain backdrops, forest trails, and welcoming mountain huts makes the Adolf Munkel Trail a memorable and classic Dolomites experience.
STOP 2: CHURCH OF ST. JOHN
After your hike, we will visit two churches in Santa Magdalena village. The first will be the Chiesa di San Giovanni in Ranui (Church of St. John) which is one of the most photographed churches in the Dolomites. Set in a peaceful meadow with the Odle Group rising behind it, this small church with its onion-shaped dome looks like something out of a postcard. The setting is simple, yet incredibly striking.
The church dates back to the 18th century and is dedicated to Saint John of Nepomuk. Its isolated position in the middle of green pastures creates a perfect contrast against the sharp limestone peaks in the background.
To visit the church inside or even to get closer to it you’ll have to pay a small fee. However, in my opinion this church charm is mostly its setting so just a quick stop to admire it from the distance is worth it.
STOP 3: CHURCH OF ST. JOHN
To end the day, we will go on a short walk from Santa Magdalena to reach the viewpoint where you can get fantastic views of Chiesa di Santa Maddalena, another iconic church in the Dolomites. Perched on a gentle hillside above Santa Magdalena village, this small church is framed perfectly by the peaks of the Odle Group. The combination of green calm pastures, traditional farmhouses, and sharp limestone mountains creates a beautiful scene.
Located in Val di Funes, the church dates back to the 15th century and remains an important landmark for the local community. Unlike the more isolated Church of St. John in Ranui, Santa Magdalena sits slightly higher in teh valley and overlooks a wide open landscape, making it a favorite spot for panoramic photography.
To enjoy this church, all you need to do is follow the path to the designated viewpoints where you can admire the church with the mountain backdrop.
DAY 11 - LAGO DI CAREZZA AND BOLZANO
Route: From Smart Hotel Saslong to lago di Carezza and Bolzano (Distance: 83,6 km; Time: 1 h and 51 min)
Hotel: Hotel Hanny
Walking: 6 km
STOP 1: LAGO DI CAREZZA
Lago di Carezza, also known as Karersee, is another iconic lake in the Dolomites. It is famous for its deep turquoise and emerald waters that reflect the peaks of the Latemar on clear days.
A short and easy walking path circles the lake, offering different viewpoints along the way. The loop is less than 2 km but it is really beautiful. You’ll get to enjoy a combination of forest, water, and jagged rock formations that make the lake feel almost unreal.
Good to know: Lago di Carezza is a really popular stop on the Dolomites so it is recommended that you arrive as early as possible.
STOP 2: BOLZANO
Bolzano is a lively alpine city where Italian and Austrian influences blend seamlessly. Surrounded by rolling hills and dramatic peaks, it serves as a cultural and culinary gateway to the Dolomites. The city feels both elegant and relaxed, with colorful façades, open squares, and mountain views never far from sight.
One of Bolzano’s most distinctive features is its vineyards. The surrounding slopes are covered with neat rows of grapevines that thrive in the region’s unique climate, where warm Mediterranean air meets cool alpine breezes. Local wineries produce renowned wines such as Lagrein and Gewürztraminer. Visiting one of these wineries and joining a wine tasting is one of the many activities you can do in Bolzano.
In the heart of the city, the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology is a must-visit. The museum is best known as the home of Ötzi the Iceman, a remarkably preserved prehistoric mummy discovered in the Alps. The exhibits provide fascinating insight into life more than 500 years ago, making it one of the most unique museums in the region.
Another highlight is the Bolzano Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of the Assumption of Mary. With its striking Gothic tower and intricate roof tiles, the cathedral stands as a symbol of the city. Inside you’ll find beautiful frescoes and detailed stonework that reflect Bolzano’s rich history.
Bolzano is the perfect way to end your road trip in the Dolomites.
DAY 12 - RETURN HOME
Route: From Bolzano to Venice Airport (Distance: 227 km; Time: 2 hs and 57 min)
STOP 1: DRIVE TO vENICE AIRPORT AND FLY HOME
The last day of the trip is all about getting home. If you’ve flown in via Venice, then all you’ll have to do is drive all the way back to Marco Polo Airport in Venice, return your car to the rental company and fly home.
Depending on when its your time, if you have some extra time during the day, you can consider stopping to explore Trento, where you can visit the impressive Trento Cathedral or Buonconsiglio Castle.
In our case, we drove directly back from Bolzano to Belgium so we spent the whole day on the road.
ACCOMMODATION IN THE DOLOMITES
I’m not going to lie, accommodation in the Dolomites is expensive. The best tip I can give you is that you book your accommodation as soon as possible. Not only will there be more options available, but you will also get better prices.
If you want to save some money, then booking an appartment might be the best option. This way, you’ll be able to save some money by cooking your own meals. Another option is to rent a campervan and this way you’ll have both your transportation and accommodation in the same spot but you need to be comfortable with driving a van in the mountain roads.
When planning your trip to the Dolomites, you should split your accommodations into two. One in the eastern Dolomites, preferably near Cortina d’Ampezzo and the other one in the western Dolomites, near Ortisei and Val Gardena. Here is a summary of the places where we stayed.
Eastern Dolomites - Hotel Croda Rossa
Hotel Croda Rossa is a charming hotel with a great location. The hotel is located on a beautiful valley with great views of Monte Cristallo. Rooms were spacious and comfortable. The garden is perfect for relaxing after a day of hiking in the Dolomites.
We stayed at this hotel for 6 nights and had a fantastic day here. The only downside to this hotel was the food which was not very good. We solved it by having dinner either at Cortina or Dobbiaco.
Western Dolomites - Alpsta Smart Hotel Saslong
Smart Hotel Saslong is located in Santa Cristina in Val Gardena and it is a fantastic option to stay in the western Dolomites. The rooms in the hotel have a minimalistic design but are super comfortable and all have a balcony where you can relax in the evenings.
The hotel also offers free parking space and the breakfast buffet is really varied and delicious. Definitely recommend this hotel if you’re staying in the area.
Bolzano - Hotel Hanny
Hotel Hanny is a fantastic option if you’re staying in Bolzano and traveling by car.The hotel has free on-site parking which makes it quite convenient.
The rooms are basic but very spacious and comfortable and the breakfast buffet is delicious. The staff are also really helpful and even though we arrived before check-in hours, they allowed us to do an early check-in.
FAQ: DOLOMITES ROAD TRIP
HOW MANY DAYS DO YOU NEED FOR A DOLOMITES ROAD TRIP?
As many as you can! In reality there is no good or bad answer to this question. I would recommend a minimum of 5 days to at least be able to see the highlights. Then, you can add as many days as you want.
We chose 12 days because we love being in the mountains but if you have 7 or 10 days it also a good amount of days. Just choose the must-visit places for you and adapt it to the time you have.
WHAT IS THE BEST TIME FOR A DOLOMITES ROAD TRIP?
The best time is from late June to early October. July and September offer the most stable weather but it is also peak season. Many mountain passes close from mid to late autumn through spring due to snow.
DO YOU NEED A CAR IN THE DOLOMITES?
Yes, renting a car in highly recommended. While public transport exists, a self-drive itinerary gives you the flexibility to explore remote viewpoints, sunrise spots, and scenic mountain passes.
IS DRIVING IN THE DOLOMITES DIFFICULT?
Driving is generally easy but it involves mountain passes with tight curves. Roads are well maintained, and signage is clear. A small compact car is usually sufficient unless you are visiting in the shoulder season.
MAP WITH ALL LOCATIONS
To help you plan your trip, I have compiled all the places mentioned in this blog in the following map. Each day is identified with a different color.
HOW TO USE THIS MAP: Click the star next to the map title to add this map to your google maps account. To view it on your phone while traveling, open Google Maps, click on the menu button and go to “Your Places”, click on Maps and you’ll see this map in your list.
FINAL THOUGHTS
The Dolomites is a destination that truly has it all: mountain peaks, peaceful alpine meadows, charming villages and crystal-clear lakes. From scenic hikes beneath towering rock formations to quiet moments in small mountain churches, every stop offers something unique and special.
No matter how long you stay, the Dolomites will leave a lasting impresssion.The views stay with you and you will find yourself longing to return.
DISCLAIMER: Did you know? This blog uses affiliate partnerships. When you click and book or make a purchase through one of my blog posts, I may receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you). Thank you for supporting The Travelling Hiker!
OTHER ARTICLES ABOUT THE DOLOMITES
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