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It could take multiple lifetimes to really grasp all that the beautiful Dolomites has to offer. I’ve been in this area at least ten times and am still just scratching the surface. From hidden gems to hundreds of outdoor activities, there is a sight and place for everyone in the South Tyrol. This post, however, is for all those must-see postcard spots that made my Dolomites Top 10 list.
Yes, these places might be touristy or expected but they are all absolutely worth the hype!
An unparalleled natural marvel, you’ll find the Italian Dolomites have a spirit of their own. In utmost silence, their beauty captivates and completely draw you into the present moment. They absorb you; they make you feel one with the universe… they instigate nothing short of a mystical awakening.
For this post I have handpicked those ten most beautiful places in the Dolomites that you absolutely can’t miss. Most of the places mentioned are readily accessible and don’t require particular athletic conditioning.
Follow along to discover where to find the best views in the Dolomites!
FOR USEFUL INFORMATION ON PLANNING A TRIP TO THE DOLOMITES VISIT MY POST HERE.
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Dolomites Top 10 Bucket List Places to Visit
1. Lago di Sorapis
(Comune of Cortina, Veneto)
Where to Park: Passo Tre Croci (free)
Hike Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous (depending on which trail you do)
Trails: 215 or 213/216
Duration: At least half a day
When to go? Summer (preferably weekday)
Mountain Hut: Rifugio Vandelli
Suitable for Children? Not recommended for small children as trail is exposed
Dogs Allowed? Not recommended as trail is exposed
Good Base Towns: Cortina, San Vito di Cadore, Dobbiaco, San Candido
Starting with the first entry of this Dolomites top 10 list, lago di sorapis undoubtedly takes the prize when it comes to extraordinary panoramic views. With its stunning sky-blue water and towering limestone peaks in the background, this glacial lake really is one of the most beautiful places in the Dolomites.
There are a couple trails that lead up to the lake from Passo Tre Croci. Depending on how experienced you are you can choose accordingly. 215 is the shorter and easier/moderate hike, while 213/216 is strenuous and only for experienced hikers. For either hike, sneakers are not appropriate – make sure you bring your hiking boots. For more information on what to pack read my post 50 Important Items you Must Pack for the Dolomites.
*Bear in mind that ALL trails are exposed and in certain parts narrow (you can grab on the provided cables for support on the narrowest parts). For this reason, I do not recommend hiking up to this lake with young children, dogs, or anyone afraid of heights.
Because of its popularity, I suggest getting to the parking lot no later than 8:30am to ensure you find a spot and to also allot enough time for your return hike (you don’t want to hike back in the dark!)
Once you reach Lake Sorapis, enjoy a nice picnic as you marvel upon the glazed turquoise colors or grab a lunch at the Rifugio Vandelli. Just remember to bring cash as cards are not accepted. Also, swimming is by no means allowed in the lake! Please follow the rules and help protect our UNESCO World Heritage Sites. You can always get a picture on a rock right beside the water like me.
2. Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Alm)
Val Gardena / Val di Tires – Trentino Alto Adige
Where to Park: Compaccio Parking Lot (Only if entering/exiting before 6AM/after 5PM) – If not, take the cable car.
Cable Car Station: Seiseralmbaln from town of Siusi allo Scillar or Mont Sëuc from town of Ortisei
Hike Difficulty: Very Easy to Very Strenuous (depending on which trail you do)
When to go? All Seasons, Summer or Winter best
Dining: Yes, dozens of mountain huts
Suitable for Children? Yes
Dogs Allowed? Yes, on a leash
Good Base Towns: Ortisei, Bolzano, Santa Cristina, Selva di Val Gardena
The largest mountain plateau in Europe, going to Alpe di Siusi is like experiencing a true alpine fairytale. With its rolling meadows and encircling peaks, you’ll truly feel like you’ve stepped into the shoes of little ole Heidi.
The beauty and versatility of this alpine pasture makes it one of the most famous Dolomites photo spots.
In the summer you’ll find gorgeous grasslands for days and over 60 trails for hiking and biking. Take your pick at which mountain range you prefer to have as your background that day; is it the Sassopiatto? The Sassolungo? The Catinaccio Group? We did this intense all-day hike and were mesmerized every step of the way!
In the winter, with over 50km of snow-shoeing trails and 180+km of ski-slopes, you’ll never have one day like the next. And if you just want to chill and take it all in, there truly is no greater sight than the cozy chalets of Alpe di Siusi blanketed in fresh snow. Don’t leave out this gem from your Dolomites top 10 places to visit!
FOR MORE IN DEPTH INFORMATION ON VISITING ALPI DI SIUSI READ MY COMPLETE GUIDE HERE
3. Passo Gardena (Grödner Joch)
Val Gardena / Val Badia – Trentino Alto Adige
Where to Park: Next to Rifugio Frara (paid) €
When to go? All Seasons
Mountain Hut: Rifugio da Jimmy (Jimmi Hütte)
Suitable for Children? Yes
Dogs Allowed? Yes, on a leash
Good Base Towns: Ortisei, Santa Cristina, Selva di Val Gardena, Corvara, Badia
To experience one of the Dolomites best views, drive your way and park directly at the Gardena Pass. This extraordinary mountain pass that connects the Val Gardena with the Val Badia, sits right at the crossroads of several mountain chains. From one single spot you can admire the Sella Group (Gruppo Sella/ Sellagruppe), the Cir Group (Cirspitzen), AND Sassolungo (Langkofel)! It’s honestly a mind-blowing 360-degree mountain view and in my opinion, one of the best photo spots in the Dolomites.
The road on this pass is equally as scenic as it snakes alongside imposing mountains and weaves in and out of lush pastures. For this reason, it comes as no surprise that Passo Gardena is considered a biker’s and cyclist’s paradise! We in fact decided to visit on our motorcycle as well.
2-WHEELER TIP: If you’re a cyclist you might want to try your hand at the demanding but stunning Sella Ronda Route in the Summer. For motorcyclists, the 5 Pass Tour (Giro dei 5 Passi) is considered one of the most beautiful motorcycle itineraries in Italy.
There are several hikes and vie ferrate that start from Passo Gardena. Climbing to Grand Cir for example is a fantastic via ferrata for experienced hikers looking to approach their first via ferrata – I even wrote a whole post on it!
What I do recommend is walking up to Rifugio da Jimmy from Passo Gardena for an exquisite meal with first-class views. I promise you will feel like you’re in a spectacular postcard and it only takes 20 minutes to get there!
FOR MORE INFO ON PASSO GARDENA AND THE GRAN CIR VIA FERRATA READ MY COMPLETE GUIDE HERE.
4. Lago di Braies (Pragser Wildsee)
Val Pusteria – Alto Adige
Where to Park: Next to the lake at P4, P3, or P2 (all paid €) – booking a parking spot is required in the summer
Hike Difficulty: Very Easy
Trail: Loop Circuit
Duration: 2-3 hrs. depending on how many stops you take
When to go? Spring – Summer – Fall
Dining: Yes, several restaurants
Suitable for Children? Yes
Dogs Allowed? Yes, on a leash
Good Base Towns: San Candido, Dobbiaco, Valdaora, Brunico
Alas, we finally get to what is most probably the most instagrammed spot in the Dolomites – Lago di Braies. And let me tell you, it is worth the hype!
With its glittering emerald and teal hues, Lago di Braies reflects boldly but quietly at the same time. You can rent a boat and row your way around the alpine lake or decide to go for the loop walk (or both!), whichever you choose you’re guaranteed to find a changing scenery from every direction.
*PHOTOGRAPHERS/INSTAGRAMMERS*! Please note that the all-too photogenic wooden deck of Lago di Braies is private property. If you would like a picture on the deck, please defer from trespassing and support the local business by booking a shooting with them at @lapalafitta – price is about 150 euro for a shooting session.
Because of its extreme popularity, during the summer months I heartily encourage you to finish the loop (not start) by no later than 11am to avoid the hordes of tourists. Plus, this is also the time of day that gets the best lighting so it’s a win-win.
*BEWARE* Booking a parking spot is mandatory in the summer- this is not just to reserve your space but to also access the road that leads to the lake. The closer to the lake you reserve your spot, the more it will cost.
The loop hike is super easy and is about 3.6km long. You can opt to run it clockwise or counterclockwise in opposition to how the majority of the crowds are taking it. However, if you’re interested in renting boats or getting a nice photo by the palafitta, I recommend doing that as soon as you get to the lake to avoid long lines and wait times. This means you should proceed clockwise.
*PLEASE NOTE! If visiting the Dolomites off-season, please check beforehand to see if restaurants and mountain huts are open. Many places remain closed well into June!*
FOR MORE IN DEPTH INFORMATION ON VISITING LAGO DI BRAIES READ MY COMPLETE GUIDE HERE
5. Tre Cime di Lavaredo (Drei Zinnen)
Val Pusteria – Veneto and Alto Adige
Park Entrance Fee: €€ (check this website for updated prices)
Where to Park: Rifugio Auronzo Parking Lot
Hike Difficulty: Easy to Strenuous, depends on trail
When to go? June-October
Dining: Yes, several mountain hut
Suitable for Children? Yes
Dogs Allowed? Yes, on a leash
Good Base Towns: San Candido, Dobbiaco, Cortina, San Vito di Cadore
There is no better place in the Dolomites than the Tre Cime di Lavaredo to witness the enchanting ‘pink phenomenon’. A phenomenon that occurs at dawn and dusk, viewers are awarded with the most majestic view as the sun slowly veils a delicate display of roses and crimsons over the peaks.
The easy and famous loop hike (via trails 101 and 105) borders right alongside the three peaks, allowing for an up close encounter. The circuit trail takes approximately 4 hours to complete and is mostly flat. You can stop for lunch at various mountain huts, but you’ll get the best view at Rifugio Locatelli.
GET HERE EARLY! In being the most popular Dolomites attraction, the parking lot reaches full capacity by the early morning in the summer. However, if you get here too late, you can always head in by foot or shuttle if they no longer allow cars in.
For those of you who are adrenaline junkies (ahem… climbers) you will be ecstatic to learn that you can also climb the Tre Cime! There are also dozens of vie ferrate in the area (easy to strenuous). Not only do they offer breathtaking views but many trace the footsteps of the Great War with portions trekking through historic trenches and tunnels.
6. Cima Cadini di Misurina Viewpoint (Napfspitze)
Val Pusteria – Veneto and Alto Adige
Park Entrance Fee: €€ (check this website for updated prices)
Where to Park: Rifugio Auronzo Parking Lot
Hike Difficulty: Very Easy
When to go? June-October
Dining: Rifugio Auronzo
Suitable for Children? Yes, but not small children – viewpoint is exposed
Dogs Allowed? Yes, on a leash
Good Base Towns: San Candido, Dobbiaco, Cortina, San Vito di Cadore
Take advantage of your time in the Tre Cime di Lavaredo National Park and head over to the Cima Cadini di Misurini viewpoint, just a 30-minute walk from the Rifugio Auronzo Parking Lot (just walk in the opposite direction following on Trail No. 117).
More jagged at its peaks but equally as impressive, Cima Cadini towers over the valley below in a way that much reminded me of Mount Doom in the Lord of the Rings. (In fact, I found out later that these peaks are also known as The Towers of Mordor!)
The viewpoint is DRAMATIC to say the least. Bear in mind however that this spot is highly exposed. You will want to avoid the area if it has rained and I highly discourage any people afraid of heights from heading out.
*PHOTOGRAPHY TIP*: For a great photo you will want to come equipped with a telephoto lens (superzoom lens).
7. Lago di Carezza (Karersee)
Val d’Ega – Trentino Alto Adige
Where to Park: Lake Carezza Visitor Center or P2, P3 (P1 is paid, P2 & P3 free)
Hike Difficulty: Very Easy
Trail: Loop Circuit
Duration: 1-2 hrs. depending on how many stops you take
When to go? All Seasons
Dining: Yes, Visitor Center Restaurant
Suitable for Children? Yes
Dogs Allowed? Yes, on a leash
Good Base Towns: Pozza di Fassa, Bolzano, Ortisei
A shimmering spectrum of turquoises in the spring and summertime, and a frozen winter wonderland in the winter, Lago di Carezza is beautiful in every season… it even hosts a spectacular annual Christmas Market in the month of December!
But besides its captivating colors, the encircling Latemar mountain range and its gorgeous spruce forest really make Lago di Carezza one of the best places to visit in the Dolomites for stunning year-round panoramas.
The loop-hike around the lake is very easy and has a number of lookouts and viewpoints to stop at. I highly recommend visiting this lake on a sunny day to get to experience the full spectrum of colors the water has to offer – visiting on a gloomy day will result in a duller looking lake.
NO SWIMMING ALLOWED! Please keep in mind that Lago di Carezza is a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site. As such, it is fenced off to the public and any trespassing will be fined. Please be a good example and obey the rules.
FOR MORE INFO ON VISITING LAGO DI CAREZZA IN ANY SEASON READ MY COMPLETE GUIDE HERE.
8. Seceda Ridgeline
Val Gardena – Trentino Alto Adige
Where to Park: Col Raiser Parkplatz (paid) or Parkgarage Seceda (paid) – depends which cable car you take
Cable Car Station: Col Raiser or Seceda
Hike Difficulty: Easy/Moderate (depending on which ascent you do)
When to go? June – October
Dining: Yes, several mountain huts
Suitable for Children? Yes
Dogs Allowed? Yes, on a leash
Good Base Towns: Ortisei, Santa Cristina, Selva di Val Gardena, Corvara
The Seceda Ridgeline with its dramatic drop-offs truly is one of the best places in the Dolomites to visit. On the crest of the Odle mountains and at a staggering 2518 meters, you’ll find being on the Seceda ridgeline feels quite like standing right up against the edge of the world.
If you’re looking for a super easy hike, take the Seceda Cable Car which takes you directly to the summit and from there a 10-minute walk leads to the ridgeline. For those of you who would like to get a nice pleasant hike out of it, take the Col Raiser cable car and from there follow signs for Trail No. 1 headed to Seceda cable car (the ascent takes about 1.5 hrs.) You can read my full guide on the Seceda Hike here. You can also avoid taking the cable car and hike directly from the Col Raiser parking lot but bear in mind this makes the hike much more strenuous.
It is not uncommon for fog to settle in at the ridgeline (which in my opinion just makes it dreamier). The drop is quite daunting so be cautious near the edges, especially when wind picks up!
Before heading back, you can enjoy lunch at various mountain huts – Rifugio Firenze, an hour’s walk away, was our favorite.
FOR MORE IN DEPTH INFORMATION ON VISITING SECEDA, READ MY COMPLETE GUIDE HERE
9. Puez Odle Panorama Point via Adolf Munkel Trail
Val di Funes – Trentino Alto Adige
Where to Park: Zannes Parking (paid €)
Hike Difficulty: Easy/Moderate
Trails: 6, 35 (Adolf Munkel Trail), & 36
Duration: At least half a day
When to go? June – September
Mountain Hut: Rifugio delle Odle (Geisler Alm), Gschnagenhardt Alm
Suitable for Children? Yes
Dogs Allowed? Yes, on a leash
Good Base Towns: Santa Maddalena, Bressanone, Ortisei
If you’re looking for the best view in the Dolomites, the grandiose alpine pasture that unfolds at the top of the Adolf Munkel Trail is the perfect place. With a spectacular view of the Odle (Geisler) Group, you’ll literally feel like you’ve jumped into a mesmerizing work of art. You know the Mary Poppins chalk scene? There, that’s exactly what it feels like!
Dining at the mountain huts is equally as divine. There are several you can try from, but our favorite was Gschnagenhardt Alm.
You can decide to take the loop in different directions; at times the signage can get confusing. Make sure on your way up you always look for signs for Geisleralm and that should help guide you.
FOR MORE IN DEPTH INFORMATION ON HIKING THE ADOLF MUNKEL TRAIL READ MY COMPLETE GUIDE HERE
10. Lago di Anterselva (Antholzer See)
Val Pusteria – Alto Adige
Where to Park: Parcheggio Lago Anterselva (paid €)
Hike Difficulty: Very Easy
Trail: Loop Circuit
Duration: 2-3 hrs.
When to go? All Seasons, Summer best
Dining: Yes, several mountain huts
Suitable for Children? Yes
Dogs Allowed? Yes, on a leash
Good Base Towns: San Candido, Brunico, Valdaora, Dobbiaco
Last but not least on this Dolomites top 10 list is the quiet lake of Anterselva, a true hidden gem in South Tyrol. Off the beaten path, take a break from the tourist spots and picnic or spend a relaxing couple of hours at this lake. You can even swim here, gasp! (However, bear in mind that the water is very cold!)
A family favorite, Lago di Anterselva has plenty of play areas and even has a nature itinerary to follow along as you make your way around the circular trail.
The circular trail only takes a couple of hours and is best if taken clockwise starting from Tiroler Hütte. We found that the best view of the lake is about 10/15 minutes into the walk –you’ll see a charming lake cottage (Hotel Seehaus) on the opposite lakeshore.
For lunch, we found the best place (especially if you have kids) is Platzl am See Restaurant. Here there is a big open lawn right on the shore for kids to play at or to have a nice picnic.
Lago di Anterselva is actually a great starting point for numerous hiking trails. If you’re feeling rested you can venture up to a second, higher lake— Obersee Lake (which actually crosses the border into Austria!). There you can also eat at the Rifugio Alpino Obersee.
**Lago di Anterselva is the farthest Dolomites attraction on this bucket list. If you need to cut some places because of time constraints, logistically speaking this is the one that makes the most sense leaving out.
MORE AROUND VAL PUSTERIA – adventure down the spectacular Drava cycling route that crosses into Austria (family-friendly)!
Can this Dolomites Top 10 list be turned into an itinerary?
Yes, it can… but keep in mind that some of these places are not as close as you would think. Even though they might only be 20 or 30 kilometers apart, most roads wind up and down mountains making travel time to and from much longer.
As a general rule, to hit all of these 10 spots in one vacation I would recommend a bare minimum of two weeks, and that is in my opinion already a stretch if you also want to relax a bit in the middle!
Map of the Most Beautiful Places in the Dolomites
To get an idea of distances and to help you plan accordingly, here is a useful Dolomites map I’ve made outlining all the locations discussed in this Dolomites Top 10 list. (You can zoom in and click on the map – the points of interest are numbered the same way as on this bucket list.)
So, there it is… my Dolomites Top 10. If you have any questions or would like to share your Dolomites Top 10, please comment below! I’m always eager for new inspiration and happy to help in any way that I can.
Don’t forget to follow along on my adventures at @ladolcefitvita…
Buona Gita! Happy Trails!
Curious to read a little more about the Dolomites? Check out these guides:
- Hiking to Alpe di Tires – A Strenuous Hike in Alpe di Siusi
- Off-the-beaten Path: Explore Stunning Alpine Lake in Dobbiaco
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This blog post is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. Please read my full disclosure for further information.
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