If youre planning to enjoy a few overnight hikes as well as the main sights, 10 nights might be a better option. From Ortisei, we recommend heading west towards the Dolomites most famous landmarks, Tre Cime di Lavaredo. Spend 2 nights in Chur. For the best experience, get started early (by 9 am). Until after WWI, Trento was part of Austria. The Ultimate Switzerland Road Trip Itinerary for 2 Weeks That way you will get to see different parts of the Dolomites. Is that ok? During this time, you can walk, bike, or take the bus. HELPFUL TIPS: We cover important things to know before you go and travel tips in our article How to Plan a Trip to the Dolomites. In many ways, Switzerland feels like three different countries at once - depending on the regions you pick for your adventure. Fortunately, Lago di Braies is a short 30-minute drive away from San Candido (follow the SS49, turn off just after Niederdorf/Villabassa and follow the signs). Wed recommend hiring a small all-wheel-drive / SUV in Bolzano, which is pretty much the gateway to your Dolomites adventures. This doesnt mean you cant visit the Dolomites during this period; it's just that you may struggle to find an array of accommodation options. 13 Days 20 Meals. You can also drive to the Falzarego Pass and ride the Lagazuoi cable car for another great view. The time spent there is up to you. If if were me and I planned to do all of the hikes on your list, plus the Murren via ferrata, Id bring my hiking shoes, both because they are waterproof (great if you come across snow on the trails) and to not take a chance Id get denied doing the via ferrata. Overlooking Passo Giau from Rifugio Nuvolau | Dolomites Itinerary. Its important to note that the Dolomites are essentially a tourist resort and a lot of the towns and amenities (hotels, restaurants) shut down during the off-season, from mid-October - December, and between April - June. The Dolomites are one of those places that you could visit at any time of the year and still have a memorable experience. Only in Nepal have we come close to feeling as we do in the Dolomites; a sense of pure awe and elation at the epic landscapes surrounding us. This hike starts at the Dantercepies gondola in Selva di Val Gardena. Passo dello Stelvio is another place to see close to the Swiss border. To help you explore the best of the Italian Dolomites, weve put together our 7-day Dolomites itinerary. Your email address will not be published. Have a great time in the Dolomites! Oberholz is home to some seriously world-class cuisine, using ingredients from South Tyrol to create simple, wonderful mountain food. hike to the Cadini di Misurina viewpoint. of the road, like us Aussies. When is the best time to visit the Dolomites? From the summit, the sunset is truly spectacular. how to day trip to Lake Como and Bellagio. How to Plan a Trip to the Dolomites: Things to Know Before You Go In July, we are planning on spending 3 days in Bernese Oberland hiking, etc and then a few days in Lake Como then the Dolomites for 5 1/2 days (staying in Selva and Cortina). Guide to the Best Places to Visit in Italy. You can pick out your favorite daily itineraries and then put them together to create your perfect Dolomites itinerary. Marmolada is the highest mountain in the Dolomites and you can get to the top by riding a series of cable cars. DO | Hike to Gran Cir peak, enjoy South Tyrolean cuisine at Rifugio tia de Bioch, STAY | Continue your stay at the beautiful timber interior of Mountain Hotel Mezdi, Colfosco/Corvara. Built by famed architect Zaha Hadid, the museum is curated by famous mountaineer, Reinhold Messner, and is dedicated to traditional mountaineering and mountain history in the surrounding area of the Dolomites and Alps. Yes, you should be able to rent a car in Milan and return it in Vienna. VENICE: Learn more about Venice in our article Best Things to Do in Venice. We recommend getting to the lake by 9 am. Pro tip: take them slow and enjoy the view, Distances are fairly short, but take a long time | Due to the mountain ranges, driving around the Dolomites can be quite slow. Thinking of day trip or overnight in Zermatt? We dont have any personal experience staying in any of the huts in the Dolomites. More Information for Your Trip to the Dolomites. Best road trip for rural Switzerland. Day 1 - Lake Tovel and naturalistic gems of the Adamello - Brenta Nature Park. On day three of your 3-day Dolomites itinerary, there are sort of two directions you could go. Absolutely. At this point, we recommend heading back in the direction you came, slowly making your way towards the carpark. MORE INFORMATION: For all of our articles about the Dolomites, take a look at our Dolomites Travel Guide. From the rifugio, you can also experience some of the best views of over the Dolomites, including views to the tallest in the region, Marmolada. Passo Gardena is a high mountain pass connecting the valleys of Gardena and Badia. I would probably add a night there rather than make the effort to go to Zermatt for a night - or skip the Berner Oberland altogether and spend all your mountain time in Zermatt. This hike is 3.2 km (2 miles) round trip and takes 1 to 2 hours. Cheers, Julie, Hi, your guide is amazing , thank you for sharing your experience. The Croda da Lago Circuit takes you to Lago Federa and several spectacular viewpoints along the way. You can get here by riding the cable car to the rifugio and from here, hike the Cinque Torri and/or to Rifugios Averau and Nuvolau. Basically, hiking shoes are almost mandatory. Switzerland and Italian Dolomites - 2 weeks - Rick Steves Hi all and thanks in advance for the recommendations My wife and I will be traveling to Europe in September, we are looking to fly into Zurich from London and work our way to the Lauterbrunnen area to stay for a couple of days, explore the region, do some hikes/ walks/ etc. Best enjoyed at sunrise, Alpe di Siusi is one of those too beautiful to be real type places. The recently opened Lumen Museum of Mountain Photography is a one-of-a-kind space dedicated to mountain photography (Adults: 17, open 10 am - 4 pm, Monday - Sunday). This drive connects these two areas. Spend the afternoon by hiking one of the nearby trails. Are you able to recommend hikes/walks that are not too long or ways to see the place with minimum walks and more cable cars. Here you can see an example of the old-town architecture, and enjoy an espresso at one of the many cafes. Cheers, Julie. For most of those hikes you should be fine in trail running shoes. Look up on the web. It's another trip. The reward though is waiting for you when you arrive. Book here. Northern Italy Switzerland Itinerary - Brown Eyed Flower Child Another view from the Puez-Odle Altopiano hiking trail. Its all part of the fun though and gives you time to enjoy the views. Youre not actually allowed to drive into Alpe di Siusi unless youre staying at one of the hotels in there (theres a pretty hefty 150+ fine if you do), so we suggest parking at Compatsch and walking into the meadow at your own pace. However, Lagazuoi is beautiful and there is a hut here. The Dolomites are one of the most beautiful places in Europe. Weve also created our road-trip guide in an easily followed circular loop through some of the regions most beautiful roads and stunning regional towns, starting and ending in the accessible and wonderfully pretty city of Bolzano. The Cinque Torri is a short hike but you have to ride a chairlift to get to the start of the hike. Parts of the trail are a Via Ferrata (though it is possible to complete the trail without being roped in) and it requires a decent hiking skill set and level of fitness. To get to this epic vantage point, take the Seilbahn Seceda cable car from Ortisei (32 return) to the top of Seceda and admire the views for yourself (we recommend taking the earliest possible cable car to enjoy the surrounds crowd-free). Weve arrived in both Venice and Munich, and both were easy options to get to the Dolomites. A visit to Lago di Braies lasts about 4 hours. How to Use This Map: Click the tab in the top left hand corner of the map to view the layers (places to go in the eastern and western Dolomites). Get recommendations for the best places to stay in the eastern and western Dolomites for your budget, including Cortina dAmpezzo, Selva di Val Gardena, Ortisei, Alta Badia, and more. View of Tre Cime on the hike to the Cadini di Misurina viewpoint. Dolomites One Day Itinerary Route Planner Bolzano (A) to Val di Funes (F) 170km 5h 40 mins ( including stops) If you only have one day in the Dolomites, this is the itinerary I would pick. Take the Glacier Express from Zermatt to Chur. We recommend stopping at the various viewpoints on the way before arriving in the town of Corvara in Alta Badia, where we recommend staying for two nights. After two early mornings in a row, we recommend chilling out during the midday hours. #1 Witness the rainbow lake of Lago di Carezza, #6 Trek through the underrated Fanes National Park, #7 Eat South Tyrolean fare at Alpinn restaurant, #8 Explore the pretty towns of South Tyrol. Our website uses cookies. Yes, depending on the weather. Therefore, its important to remember a few key rules: The Dolomites arent your Instagram playground | The Dolomites are an incredible natural phenomenon perfect for photography and Instagram, but that doesnt mean you have free reign to break rules, ruin natural environments and use it as your playground (read our responsible travel tips here). Depending on your arrival time, you may want to try a short hike from town or enjoy wellness at your hotel. The Perfect Dolomites Road Trip Itinerary for 5 Days I would suggest staying the overnight of day 2 in Cortina d'Ampezzo, the luxury ski town of the Dolomites. Pick two or three regions and immerse yourself in them. Julie Last updated: April 19, 2023 Italy, Itinerary 17 Comments. The PERFECT Dolomites Itinerary (for 1, 2 or 3 days) As far as museums go, this is one of the best weve ever visited. All rights reserved Earth Trekkers. Alternatively, head to the town of San Cassiano and take the cable car to Piz Sorega, then take a short walk to Rifugio tia de Bioch to enjoy some authentic South Tyrolean cuisine. Here, the unique mountainscapes become more rugged and imposing, with the jagged peaks towering high above. You'll step into the pages of this itinerary by watching local craftspeople at work, wandering through art galleries, and resting your head underneath contemporary Alpine architecture. Returning down, drop into JimmiHtte for an incredible and well-deserved breakfast. Oberholz Alpine hut is a recently-opened contemporary restaurant with incredible panoramic views of the Unesco World Heritage-listed Dolomites. Rather than listing one 3, 5, or 7-day Dolomites itinerary, we list multiple daily itineraries. Journey through a crossroads of civilizations in Sicily and on to the spectacular coastlines of Southern Italy. You can start this 5 Dolomites itinerary from any nearby airport, or destination. This topic has been automatically closed due to a period of inactivity. With that being said, I did the Murren via ferrata in a pair of On trail running shoes, but the soles met the companys requirements. Switzerland. Enjoy the views from the upper cable car station and on the journey back down the mountain, stop off at Serauta, visit the Museum of the Great War, and do the short, optional hike to the Sacred Monumental Area. Just be aware that you will have an additional fee to park it in a parking garage during your time in Venice. The surrounding peaks of the UNESCO World Heritage listed Dolomites are just as impressive, while the hike takes in beautiful turquoise mountain lakes, verdant alpine plains and endless valleys. If you dont want to go hiking on your first day, and the skies are clear, ride the Freccia nel Cielo cable car to Cima Tofana. Use Google Maps to accurately plan your journey, trying either Italian or German names, Use a GPS | Honestly, a GPS/Google Maps is a godsend in the region. The views overlook many of the Dolomites most iconic and stunning peaks, including the Sella group, Sassolungo, and Mt. Here is a list of the best things to do in the Dolomites. From Passo Pordoi, take SS242 north towards Selva di Val Gardena, driving over the Sella Pass, pass #4 for the day. Then CInque Tori and Refugio Averau and Rifugio NuvolvaTRe Cime di Lavaredo Circuit and Cadina di Misurina viewpoint, Croda del lago circuit, Pues-Oddle Altopiano, and bikign the Alpe di Suisi Meadow. Alternatively, check prices and availability in San Candido here. Rothorn or Sunegga for more views & hikes. Geisler Alm/Rifugio Odle | Dolomites Itinerary. Surrounded on all sides by sleeping mountain giants, its impossible not to feel moved by the sheer beauty. Book here. Thank you for all the information you share. For recommendations on how to put all of this together, below we list sample multi-day itineraries, putting together the daily itineraries listed above. Alternatively, you can hire a car at any arrival point in the surrounding regions and cities. Alternatively, you could do a short segment of the Alta Via 2, which runs through Val Gardena. For those based on the European continent, train travel is the most convenient, stress-free and environmentally friendly way to get to the Dolomites. Seceda | Dolomites Itinerary Passo Pordoi | Dolomites Itinerary Day #2: Tre Cime di Lavaredo + Cadini di Misurina Viewpoint Location: Eastern Dolomites This seems to be how some of the locals who are comfortable driving these roads approach the roads here - dont let it affect your nerves on the road though. Uncover the best of this stunning Italian region, including major sights and attractions, best day hikes, and where to eat, as well as all the essential travel information you need. If you do have more time spare, wed definitely recommend a stay overnight in the Drei Zinnen Htte / Rifugio Locatelli during the summer months, as sunrise over the three peaks is an insanely beautiful experience. After enjoying the museums, take the cable car back down to Riscone/Brunico and head to your accommodation for some wellness and relaxation. BUY | Click here to get the best travel insurance deals with World Nomads. For this afternoon, we recommend something short and not too far away: Lagazuoi to the Falzarego Pass or the Cinque Torri with the optional add on of Rifugios Averau and Nuvolau. Depending on your starting point, you will arrive in the Dolomites from late morning to early afternoon. Therefore, all towns and destinations have two names. It will be a busy 2 days but it will be so much fun! If the Dolomites fits into your Italy itinerary after a visit to Milan or Verona, its best to start your visit in the western Dolomites. I would stay no less than 4 nights. You are of great help in our travels. Location: Eastern Dolomites Where to Stay: Cortina dAmpezzo. If you choose to stay in huts along the Alta Via 1, then stay in and hike at Val Gardena. You absolutely must have the risotto with wild garlic and wood sorrel (18), washed down with a mountain Spritz (South Tyrols version of an Aperol Spritz) or local wine. The parking lot for Marmolada is located on SP641 at Malga Ciapela. 7 Days in Switzerland Itinerary: Complete Guide for First-Timers Depending on your plans, we recommend spending at least a day or two extra in Bolzano and nearby Merano as theyre stunning little cities devoid of mass tourism. The best things to do in the Dolomites, Italy - We Are Global Travellers Its essentially a more thorough version of the dream itinerary wed send our friends or family with the caveat of you HAVE to visit these places. Photography and written content may not be reproduced without our permission. 10-Day Northern Italy and Switzerland Itinerary: Florence - Turin - Lausanne 2. TIP | If arriving by train, you can organise the South Tyrol shuttle to pick you up and drop you at your accommodation. Ive been reading articles that say you really are fine with good trail runners for these day hikes. 10 Days in Europe: 10 Amazing Itineraries - Earth Trekkers The picturesque old town is worth a quick stroll, but we recommend continuing on to the famed three peaks of Tre Cime/Drei Zinnen to start your afternoon hike. For each Dolomites itinerary, I also list where in the Dolomites it is located (eastern or western Dolomites, or both). Related | How to get to the Dolomites, Italy. Both the Glacier Express and Bernina Express are very scenic train trips. Alpinn only uses seasonal, organic ingredients sourced from the surrounding valleys as part of their mountain to plate philosophy to create a range of exceptional dishes, all enjoyed overlooking the Dolomites from 2,275m. Our 7-day Dolomites Itinerary: The Ultimate Road Trip Guide Weve lost count of the number of times weve stopped, jaw firmly on the floor, and drooled over the views in front of us. The main one that could be an issue is the Murren via ferrata. In this guide, we share with you the top experiences in the Dolomites, how to organize them day-by-day, and then how to put this all together to create your perfect Dolomites itinerary, whether you have 3 days, 5 days, or more. Full Itinerary. To view it on your phone or computer, open Google Maps, click the menu button, go to Your Places, click Maps, and you will see this map on your list. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Read How to Get to the Dolomites for info on the closest airports, train stations, and bus terminals.. Val Gardena (Gherdina in Ladin, Grden in German) is a valley in South Tyrol, which stretches between Valle Isarco (Eisacktal in German) and Sella Pass and Gardena Pass. Verona Villafranca International Airport - Italy | 2.5 hours, Marco Polo International Airport, Venice - Italy | 2.5 hours. You can also visit the Sciliar-Catinaccio Nature Park which is located southwest of Val Gardena. There are public buses but these arent always reliable and you wont have the freedom to explore the Dolomites at your own pace. DOLOMITES ROAD TRIP ITINERARY | OUR DAY BY DAY GUIDE DAY #1 | BOLZANO TO NOVA LEVANTE/WELSCHNOFEN Start your road trip in Bolzano, the surprisingly charming provincial capital of South Tyrol (we very much recommend spending a few days here prior, it's wonderful).. Bolzano is full of things to do, and even a short walk through the old town will have you see most of the main attractions. Fun fact: Marks granddad once owned and operated a hotel in one of Bolzanos squares, and to this day he talks extremely fondly of the city and wider region - a love that has definitely been ignited in Mark too! We use the Grayl water purification bottles, which allows us to fill up from any water source, anywhere in the world (including train taps!). 3 of the Best Northern Italy and Switzerland Itinerary Ideas for an Amazing 10-14 Day Trip Table of Contents 1. Adjacent to Lumen is Alpinn restaurant, the brainchild of Michelin-starred South Tyrolean chef and culinary legend, Norbert Niederkofler. Another day, another early morning (sensing a theme here yet?! 2. Again, if you have a few more days, wed recommend spending the night in the Fanes Htte, which was one of the more comfortable mountain huts weve ever had the pleasure of sleeping in! Discover our definitive 7-day Dolomites road trip itinerary. There is a limit to the number of cars that can park here, as well as a 30 parking fee. DO | Explore parts of Bolzano, including via Argentieri and the local markets, STAY | We enjoyed a comfortable stay at Hotel Stella-Stern, Nova Levante. Weve also included our personal recommendations on where to stay and eat, handy tips for driving in the Dolomites, a location map and more. Home About Blog Hiking Hiking Gear Hut to Hut Hiking Packing List Europe Hikes Best Day Hikes in Europe Best Treks in Europe This afternoon, take your pick: Tre Cime di Lavaredo is one of the most popular hikes in the Dolomites. It is a popular destination for locals and used as a gateway to the Dolomite Mountains. I like what response # 5 says. This is one of our favorite experiences in the Dolomites. Hello Kim. The Common Wanderer is a responsible travel and adventure blog by Mark & Mim. Although you wont have the attractions or trails entirely to yourself, you will be able to thoroughly enjoy the stunning surroundings without the insane summer crush (more on that below). While in the town of Santa Maddalena, we also recommend visiting the viewpoint of the Church of St. John GPS coordinates: 463812.3N 114319.6E. If youre unsure, its possible to hire a guide in Corvara to take you to the summit safely. Please know that by using these affiliate links, you're directly supporting The Common Wanderer to stay wandering, the running costs of the site, and our ability to provide you with free content to help you on your travels. . Read our guide on how to carbon offset here. DO | Enjoy the views from Seceda, explore parts of Cortina dAmpezzo, hike the Tre Cime di Lavaredo loop. Highlights of our 7-day Dolomites Itinerary. Republishing this articleand/orany of its contents (text, photography, etc. The hike is 13 km (8 miles), moderately strenuous, and takes 4.5 to 6 hours. After all, nothing tastes sweeter than a good feed after an early morning hike and beautiful sunrise. Note: This post contains affiliate links. These range from 7 to 21 days, with suggestions on how to use the Swiss Travel Pass and public transportation. At the very least, we recommend walking down and through the connected passageways off via Argentieri.