The Dolomites Road Trip
This itinerary was designed for travelers who want to see the best places in the Dolomites at a comfortable pace, with smart logistics, scenic drives and unforgettable viewpoints—perfect for a first visit or a return trip with deeper exploration in a Dolomites Road Trip
How to Get Around the Dolomites
The best way to explore the Dolomites is by car. While public transportation exists, it often requires multiple connections and limits access to trailheads, viewpoints and early-morning photography spots.
With a rental car, you gain:
Flexibility to start hikes early and avoid crowds
Easy access to remote valleys and mountain passes
The ability to change plans based on weather conditions
Mountain roads are well maintained, but narrow in places, so a small or mid-size car is ideal. During summer, some areas such as Alpe di Siusi and Lago di Braies may have access restrictions—arriving early is key.
Where to Stay on a Dolomites Road Trip
The most efficient way to experience this itinerary is by using two main bases.
Val Gardena (Ortisei, Santa Cristina or Selva)
This is the best base for the first part of the trip.
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Direct cable cars to Alpe di Siusi and Seceda
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Excellent infrastructure, restaurants and shops
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Minimal driving time
Cortina d’Ampezzo or Misurina
For the second half of the itinerary, move east.
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Ideal for Val di Funes, Lago di Braies, Tre Cime and Cadini
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Cortina offers more services; Misurina offers unbeatable proximity to trails
Camping & Rifugi
Official campings are available throughout the region and are a great budget travel option. Wild camping is prohibited.
For a unique experience, consider staying in a mountain rifugio, where dinner and breakfast are usually included and sunrise views are unforgettable.
Dolomites Road Trip: Best Places to Visit Alpe di Siusi
Alpe di Siusi is Europe’s largest high-altitude alpine meadow and one of the most iconic landscapes in the Dolomites. Rolling green hills, wooden huts and dramatic peaks create a surreal scene that feels timeless.
The area is perfect for relaxed hikes and panoramic walks suitable for all fitness levels. Morning light offers the best atmosphere and fewer visitors.
Alpe di Siusi meadows with mountain backdrop.
Seceda
Seceda is famous for its sharp ridgeline and sweeping views over the Odle mountains. A cable car from Ortisei makes access easy, even if you’re short on time.
Short trails lead to multiple viewpoints, making this one of the most rewarding and accessible highlights in the region.
Seceda ridgeline under blue skies.
Val di Funes
Val di Funes is quieter and more traditional, offering postcard-perfect scenery and charming villages. The iconic Santa Maddalena church sits dramatically beneath the Odle peaks, creating one of the most photographed scenes in the Dolomites.
This is an ideal stop for slow travel, short hikes and golden-hour photography.
Santa Maddalena church with Odle mountains.Val di Funes
Lago di Braies
Lago di Braies is often considered the most beautiful lake in the Dolomites. Its emerald water reflects surrounding peaks, creating stunning views from every angle.
Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy calm reflections. A flat walking path circles the lake, making it accessible for all travelers.
Sunrise at Lago di Braies with reflections.
Tre Cime di Lavaredo & Cadini di Misurina
Tre Cime di Lavaredo is the most iconic hike in the Dolomites. The loop trail offers constant views of towering rock formations and is suitable for moderately fit hikers.
Nearby, Cadini di Misurina offers one of the most dramatic viewpoints in the region, with sharp peaks and narrow ridges—a perfect finale to this road trip.
Tre Cime trail and Cadini viewpoint.
Practical Travel Tips
Best time to visit:
Late June to September. July and August are busiest; June and September offer fewer crowds.
Budget travel tips:
Stay in smaller villages or campings
Shop at local supermarkets
Travel in shoulder season
Trip duration:
5 to 7 days is ideal for this itinerary.
Final Thoughts
The Dolomites Road Trip is one of the most rewarding nature experiences in Italy. From peaceful alpine meadows to dramatic limestone peaks, this itinerary delivers a perfect balance of hiking, scenery and authentic mountain culture. If you’re planning an Italy road trip, the Dolomites deserve a top spot on your list.
