My Epic 12-Day Dolomites Road Trip Itinerary

by Jon Miksis
The Ultimate Dolomites Road Trip Itinerary
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I’ve driven through the Dolomites five times, and I still catch myself pulling over just to stare. There’s something about these jagged peaks and alpine meadows that feels more surreal than anywhere else I’ve been in the Alps. It’s not just the scenery, though the landscapes will absolutely stop you in your tracks. It’s the mix of Austrian and Italian culture, the tiny roadside farm stands, the winding passes that make your palms sweat a little.

This 12-day itinerary weaves through my favorite corners of the Dolomites, from the wine-scented streets of Bolzano to the high-altitude silence of Alpe di Siusi. You’ll hike trails I keep coming back to, eat in mountain huts that somehow serve better pasta than most cities, and wind your way through passes that feel straight out of a dream.

The ultimate Dolomites road trip itinerary

Planning the Best Dolomites Road Trip

Twelve days in the Dolomites might sound like a lot…until you’re standing at your first trailhead with the mountains towering above you and realizing how many more valleys, passes, and peaks are still calling. I’ve found this to be the sweet spot: long enough to let each stop breathe, but still tight enough to keep things exciting.

The Dolomites stretch across northeastern Italy, spanning South Tyrol, Veneto, and Trentino. This region feels like a blend of worlds – Italian in flavor but with strong Austrian and Ladin roots. The food, the language, even the architecture shifts from valley to valley, which makes driving through feel like flipping between countries every half hour.

Most people kick things off in Bolzano (Bozen in German), and that’s where I like to start too. It’s easy to reach by train or car, and while you could fly into Venice, Verona, or even Innsbruck, Bolzano makes the perfect launch point, especially if you want to ease into the mountain roads.

What follows is my version of a Dolomites road trip done right: minimal backtracking, maximum views, and just enough time to settle into each place without losing that feeling of motion. I’ll include a detailed itinerary, map, and the kind of tips that only come from doing the drive again and again.

Me in the heart of the Dolomites
My Dolomites guide has tips and hidden gems you won’t find anywhere else!

Road Trip Itinerary Map for the Dolomites

This map highlights all the key stops for my Dolomites road trip. I’ll dive into these amazing destinations in more detail below, giving you tips and tricks to make your journey as enjoyable as possible.

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Days 1-2: Bolzano

I always like starting my Dolomites trips in Bolzano. The second you roll into town, you feel that mix of cultures…German street signs, Italian espresso bars, mountains overhead, vineyards below. It’s South Tyrol at its most balanced, and it makes a perfect base before climbing deeper into the peaks.

On my first visit, I expected a quiet mountain town. Instead, I found a sunny valley city buzzing with open-air markets, late afternoon Aperol spritzes, and more hiking trails than I could count. It’s where I slow down for a day or two, shake off jet lag, and let the Dolomites come into view.

What I Always Make Time For in Bolzano:

  • Piazza Walther – This main square feels like the city’s living room. I grab a cappuccino, sit outside, and watch locals go about their day with the cathedral spires rising behind them.
  • South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology – Home to Ötzi the Iceman, this museum is fascinating, especially on a cloudy day. You’ll walk away with a whole new respect for how people survived in these mountains thousands of years ago.
  • Castel Roncolo (Runkelstein) – Just outside town, this medieval castle is covered in frescoes and has panoramic views that make the short hike up totally worth it.
  • Soprabolzano Cable Car – A 12-minute ride out of town takes you up to the Renon plateau. Once you’re up there, you can wander through forest trails, explore sleepy alpine villages, or hop on the historic narrow-gauge railway.
  • Wine Tasting in Caldaro (Kaltern) – A 25-minute drive south drops you into wine country. I love visiting a local cellar to taste crisp Gewürztraminer with vineyard views. Autumn here during harvest is especially magical.

A Few More Hidden Gems Around Bolzano

  • Rastenback Gorge Hike – Tucked in the Castelvecchio Forest, this trail winds through vineyards and narrow gorges. It’s a short hike with a big payoff in views.
  • Messner Mountain Museum – Set inside Sigmundskron Castle, this museum by Reinhold Messner (yes, the Everest guy) is all about mountain culture. It’s part art, part philosophy, and surprisingly emotional.
  • Via dei Portici – Bolzano’s historic shopping street, shaded by stone arcades. Great for a stroll, even better for a scoop of gelato.
  • Talvera Park – Ideal for a picnic or evening walk. The mountain views from the riverside paths are spectacular.
  • Törggelen Season – If you’re here in fall, don’t miss Törggelen. It’s a South Tyrolean tradition of feasting on roasted chestnuts, new wine, and hearty farmhouse food. Pure autumn bliss.
Bolzano, the "Gateway to the South," is ideal for starting your road trip with access to cultural and nature sites.
Bolzano, the “Gateway to the South,” is ideal for starting your road trip with access to cultural and nature sites.

Days 3-4: Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Alm)

From Bolzano, I love heading straight into the clouds — or at least it feels that way — to Alpe di Siusi. This high-altitude meadow is one of my favorite places in Europe. No matter the season, there’s something surreal about being up here. In summer, wildflowers ripple across the grass like a sea. In winter, it turns into a snowy dreamscape.

Staying overnight on the plateau means you can drive in, but if not, you’ll need to arrive in Compaccio before 9 a.m. or park in Siusi and take the cable car. I’ve done both, but honestly, splurging on a hotel up top is worth it. Waking up to those views is something I’ll never forget.

Epic photo of Seiser Alm in the late summer
It’s hard not to be happy in Seiser Alm

What I Always Recommend Doing in Alpe di Siusi:

  • Compaccio (Compatsch) – This is the main village on the plateau and a good place to get your bearings. From here, trails fan out in every direction.
  • Hans and Paula Steger Trail – My go-to hike here. It’s a moderate loop with constant views of the Schlern and Sassolungo peaks. The air feels cleaner, the light feels softer — it’s one of those walks that clears your head completely.
  • Mountains Schlern & Sassolungo – These giants are always in the background, shaping every photo. You can hike closer or just admire them with a drink in hand.
  • Panorama Restaurant – A must after a long hike. The name doesn’t lie…the views are unbeatable, and the food is rustic and delicious, making it one of the unique restaurants in Italy.

More Ways to Experience Alpe di Siusi

  • Cycling – Rent an e-bike in Compaccio and cruise the rolling meadows. There’s something freeing about pedaling between mountain huts with no real destination.
  • St. Valentin Church – This tiny chapel, set against a backdrop of jagged peaks, is a photographer’s dream. Best at sunrise or sunset.
  • Spa Day at Adler Lodge Alpe – After a few days of hiking, I always treat myself to a spa afternoon here. Steam rooms, saunas, and mountain views — it’s hard to beat.
  • Winter Sports – If you’re visiting in winter, this area becomes a peaceful ski paradise. I love how relaxed it feels compared to bigger resorts.

Don’t skip the food while you’re here. I always order speck with fresh bread, a bowl of knödel soup, and something sweet with apples. The huts up here might serve simple meals, but the flavors are rich with tradition.

    Alpe di Siusi, Europe’s largest high-altitude alpine meadow, is perfect for scenic hikes and popular for skiing in winter.
    Alpe di Siusi, Europe’s largest high-altitude alpine meadow, is perfect for scenic hikes and popular for skiing in winter.

    Days 5-6: Val Gardena

    Val Gardena always feels like the heart of the Dolomites to me. Tucked between massive peaks and dotted with colorful villages, this valley has just the right mix of mountain adventure and cultural charm. It’s a part of the famous Dolomiti Superski area, offering some of the best skiing in the world. I usually base myself in Ortisei or Selva…both are central, scenic, and full of character.

    It’s also incredibly well-connected. From here, you can reach Seceda, Alpe di Siusi, Sella Pass, and more within 30 to 45 minutes. No matter what season I visit, I find myself spending at least two nights here just to soak it all in.

    My Favorite Places in Val Gardena

    • Ortisei – This village has a postcard-perfect main street, cozy cafés, and lots of local woodcarving shops. Great for a slow morning and a stroll.
    • Seceda Ridge – One of the most iconic views in the Dolomites. I take the cable car from Ortisei, then hike to Rifugio Firenze for sweeping ridgeline trails and quiet alpine huts.
    • Selva di Val Gardena – A little more rugged and closer to the action. I use it as a launchpad for bigger hikes like Alta Via di Crespëina to Rifugio Puez.
    • Sella Pass – I love driving up here in the early morning when the light hits the cliffs. There are scenic trails, pull-off viewpoints, and often a few wildflowers hanging on in summer.
    • Santa Cristina – Smaller and sleepier, but the Col Raiser cable car gives you easy access to panoramic hiking trails. I once spent an entire afternoon up here with nothing but a sandwich and a view.
    Val Gardena is rich in culture, known for its wood carving and craftsmanship.
    Val Gardena is rich in culture, known for its wood carving and craftsmanship.

    More Things to Do in Val Gardena

    • Via Ferrata Gran Cir – For something adventurous (and surprisingly doable), hike to the summit of Gran Cir at sunrise. Even without ferrata gear, it’s manageable with good boots and no fear of heights.
    • Monte Pana – Great for families, with easy trails, kid-friendly slopes in winter, and lots of picnic spots in summer.
    • Sassolungo Group Loop – A tough 10-mile hike, but the views are off the charts. It’s one of those full-day efforts that leaves you sore and smiling.
    • Alpe di Siusi Day Trip – If you didn’t stay overnight earlier, this is your chance. Val Gardena is just a short drive or bus ride away.
    • Traditional Food at Rifugio Emilio Comici – One of my favorite alpine restaurants. Think buttery knödel, fresh trout, and apple strudel with mountain views.

    Val Gardena is also where I learned just how deep the region’s Ladin culture runs. The woodcarving workshops, the local dialect, the quiet pride… it all adds another layer to the landscapes. If you have time, stop by the Museum Gherdëina in Ortisei to dig a little deeper.

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    Days 7-8: Alta Badia

    Crossing into Alta Badia always feels like discovering a side of the Dolomites that most travelers miss. The landscapes are just as jaw-dropping, but the villages feel more grounded…quieter, more lived-in. This is Ladin territory, where a unique language and culture have survived for centuries, and you can feel that heritage in everything from the food to the festivals.

    I usually base myself in Corvara. It’s central, scenic, and ideal whether you’re here to hike, ski, or just eat ridiculously well.

    My Top Spots in Alta Badia

    • Corvara – The heart of Alta Badia. It’s small but packed with charm, great hotels, and mountain access in every direction. A perfect place to unwind after long hiking days.
    • Lagazuoi Cable Car – One of the best bang-for-your-buck views in the Dolomites. At the summit, you can explore old WWI tunnels and take in sweeping views that seem to go on forever.
    • Santa Croce Sanctuary – A peaceful hike leads to this mountain chapel with views that stop you in your tracks. Come for the scenery, stay for the stillness.
    • Sella Ronda – Whether you’re skiing the full loop in winter or cycling it in summer, this circuit through four valleys is an unforgettable experience. Driving it is also a blast…just stop often for photos.
    • Armentarola – A hidden gem for cross-country skiing in winter or peaceful hiking in summer. The natural ice rink here is one of my favorite cold-weather surprises.
    Alta Badia, in the Italian Alps, is home to the ancient Ladin language, spoken by 30,000 people.
    Alta Badia, in the Italian Alps, is home to the ancient Ladin language, spoken by 30,000 people.

    More Reasons to Linger in Alta Badia

    • Museum Ladin – Tucked in San Martino in Badia, this museum gives real insight into the Ladin way of life. It’s small, but you’ll walk out seeing the region in a new light.
    • Michelin-Star Dining – Alta Badia is a culinary powerhouse. I still dream about dinner at La Stüa de Michil. If you’re celebrating anything — or even if you’re not — go.
    • SellaRonda Bike Day – If you’re visiting in early September, join the car-free circuit ride. Pedaling past these peaks with zero traffic? Absolutely worth planning around.
    • Paragliding from Piz La Ila – One of the most thrilling ways to take in the landscape. Floating above the valleys puts the whole trip in perspective ..literally.

    Even if you’re just passing through, Alta Badia offers a quieter energy that contrasts beautifully with the buzzier spots like Val Gardena or Cortina. It’s the kind of place that doesn’t shout for your attention, but earns it anyway.

    Days 9-10: Cortina d’Ampezzo

    I always feel a little thrill pulling into Cortina. Maybe it’s the Olympic history, maybe it’s the dramatic peaks that seem to rise straight out of the town…or maybe it’s just knowing I’ll be spending a few days mixing wild hikes with stylish aperitivos. Either way, Cortina makes an unforgettable base for exploring the eastern Dolomites.

    It’s upscale without being stuffy, and while the boutiques and ski chalets get a lot of attention, the real magic lies just outside town…on the trails, by the lakes, and high up in the passes.

    Cortina Highlights I Always Return To

    • Tre Cime di Lavaredo – The crown jewel of the eastern Dolomites. I like to hike the full loop if I have time, but even a partial walk delivers insane views. Early morning is best for light and fewer crowds.
    • Lago di Sorapis – A turquoise glacial lake that feels almost too vibrant to be real. The hike in is a bit technical in spots, but completely worth it. Start early and bring water — the last stretch gets steep.
    • Lago di Braies (Pragser Wildsee) – Possibly the most photogenic lake in Europe. I’ve visited in every season, and the reflections never get old. Rent a wooden boat or just walk the loop around the water.
    • Faloria Cable Car – This quick ride from town delivers some of the best panoramic views in the region. I usually bring a small picnic and find a quiet overlook up top.
      Tre Cime di Lavaredo offers spectacular views, perfect for summer hikes and winter snowshoeing.
      Tre Cime di Lavaredo offers spectacular views, perfect for summer hikes and winter snowshoeing.

      More Cortina Adventures Worth Your Time

      • Cortina Ski Resort – If it’s winter, this is the place to be. Over 120 km of slopes, Olympic routes, and views that make you pause mid-run.
      • Tofana di Rozes – Great for experienced hikers or climbers. I once did a via ferrata here and felt like I was walking straight into the clouds.
      • Museo all’Aperto delle 5 Torri – WWI trenches preserved at altitude, surrounded by towers of stone. It’s a fascinating mix of history and alpine drama.
      • Toblacher See (Lago di Dobbiaco) – Quieter than Braies but just as stunning. A peaceful lakeside walk with fewer people and just as many photo ops.
      • Strolling Corso Italia – In the evenings, I like to do what the locals do: take a slow walk through town, window shop, grab a drink, and maybe indulge in gelato or speck-stuffed ravioli.
      Soaking in the scenery at Lago di Braies
      Soaking in the scenery at Lago di Braies

      Where I Like to Stay

      • Cristallo, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa: This luxurious hotel offers elegant rooms, a full-service spa, and fine dining, all with stunning views of the Dolomites.
      • Hotel Ambra Cortina: A boutique hotel in the heart of Cortina, providing cozy accommodations with a blend of traditional and modern decor, perfect for a comfortable stay.

      Cortina gives you the best of both worlds…epic nature all day and a little luxury at night. I always plan to spend at least two nights here, and somehow it still never feels like enough.

      Days 11-12: Val di Fassa

      Val di Fassa always feels like the perfect final stop. Just wild enough to keep the adventure going, but with a quieter, more relaxed pace that lets you soak it all in before heading home. It’s tucked between some of the most dramatic peaks in Trentino, and the Ladin culture is still strong here, from the language to the food to the little roadside shrines you’ll spot on mountain walks.

      I usually base myself in Canazei…it’s lively but scenic, and it’s central to all the best hikes and lifts in the valley.

      My Pro Tip: Check out the Val di Fassa Card, which can give you discounts on lifts, local transport, and entry to attractions. It’s a great way to save money while exploring. Local hotels that are partnered with the tourist board will provide it for free!

      Places I Keep Coming Back To

      • Sass Pordoi – Ride the cable car from Passo Pordoi to what’s known as the “Terrace of the Dolomites.” You step off into a world of cliffs and clouds. It’s unreal up there, especially at sunset.
      • Canazei – A colorful little town with mountain energy and great food. It’s a solid base with access to hikes, ski slopes, and bike trails. I always arrive early — parking fills fast.
      • Sella Pass – Driving this route never gets old. It winds between towering peaks with places to pull over and just breathe it all in.
      • Vajolet Towers – One of the most rewarding hikes I’ve done in the Dolomites. The trail is demanding, but when you reach those jagged stone spires? You’ll forget how tired your legs feel.
      • Karersee (Lago di Carezza) – A personal favorite. This emerald lake looks like something out of a fairytale, especially in the early morning when it’s perfectly still and the Latemar peaks reflect on the water.
      Val di Fassa, is a picturesque stop with a different taste of the Dolomiti on your way back to Bolzano.
      Val di Fassa is a picturesque stop with a different taste of the Dolomiti on your way back to Bolzano.

      More Ways to Explore Val di Fassa

      • Ladin Museum (Vigo di Fassa) – A quiet gem that dives into the valley’s history and traditions. I walked in on a whim and ended up staying for an hour.
      • Marmolada Glacier – Known as the “Queen of the Dolomites,” it’s the highest peak in the range. Ride the cable car, visit the WWI museum, and if it’s winter, consider skiing here — it’s incredible.
      • Terme Dolomia Spa – After a week of hiking and high passes, this little thermal spa in Pozza di Fassa hits the spot.
      • Alba di Canazei – A charming hamlet with access to the Ciampac–Buffaure ski area. It’s also a peaceful summer base if you want to avoid the busier towns.
      • Rifugi Experience – I always make time for lunch or an overnight in a mountain hut. Rifugio Contrin and Rifugio Fuciade both offer killer views and warm plates of polenta with wild mushrooms.

      This valley might be your last stop, but it’ll leave a lasting impression. By the time I get here, I’m already thinking about how soon I can come back.

      Ride Back to Bolzano

      As the trip winds down, the drive back to Bolzano is one last gift. No matter which route you take, the scenery doesn’t let up. I’ve done this drive in early morning mist, golden-hour light, even through summer thunderstorms, and it’s never felt like just a “return leg.” You’ve got two great options here, and I’ve taken both depending on mood and time.

      Route 1: Via Sella Pass and Gardena Pass

      This route is all about the mountain drama. The switchbacks, the sharp ridgelines, the wide-open sky…it’s the scenic goodbye this road trip deserves.

      • Sella Pass – One of the most iconic drives in the Dolomites. I always stop near the top for a photo (or three) and to just sit for a few minutes. It’s that kind of place.
      • Gardena Pass – More gentle curves but just as stunning. There’s usually a quiet rifugio or pullout where you can grab one last espresso with a view.

      My Tip: Start early to beat traffic and to catch that soft morning light filtering through the peaks.

      Route 2: Via Lago di Carezza

      If you missed this lake earlier, this route gives you a chance to end on a high note — and it’s a little more relaxed driving-wise.

      • Karersee (Carezza Lake) – I like to walk the loop trail around the lake if I have time. The reflections of the Latemar range in the water feel like a painting.
      • Nova Levante – A quiet alpine village perfect for a casual lunch stop.
      • Tramin (Termeno) – Before getting back to Bolzano, this wine village is worth a detour. It’s the birthplace of Gewürztraminer, and tasting it here, surrounded by vineyards, is the perfect toast to the end of the trip.

      Whichever route you take, this drive reminds me why road-tripping the Dolomites is so special. Even the “in-between” places are beautiful.

      Karersee is one of my favorite alpine lakes
      Karersee is one of my favorite alpine lakes

      Things to Consider When Planning Your Road Trip

      After five Dolomites road trips, I’ve learned a few things the hard way — like how fast parking fills up, how quickly the weather changes, and why it pays to book rifugi meals in advance. Here’s what I always keep in mind when planning a smooth and unforgettable trip.

      Where to Start Your Road Trip

      I always start in Bolzano. It’s well-connected by train, easy to drive out of, and offers a soft landing into alpine culture. Spend a night or two here before heading into the higher elevations — your lungs and your sense of direction will thank you.

      Other starting point options:

      • Venice (VCE) – Around 3 hours from Bolzano. Good if you want to tack on a city break.
      • Verona (VRN) – About 2.5 hours away and usually less crowded than Venice.
      • Innsbruck (INN) – Just across the Austrian border, about 2 hours from Bolzano.

      Wherever you fly in, I recommend picking up your rental car at the airport and making Bolzano your official Day 1.

      Best Time of Year for a Dolomites Road Trip

      I’ve visited in every season, and each one feels completely different. Here’s how I usually decide:

      • Summer (June–August) – Long daylight hours, green meadows, perfect for hiking. Crowds are bigger, but the mountains never feel too packed.
      • Autumn (September–October) – Crisp air, golden larch trees, wine harvests. My personal favorite time to visit.
      • Winter (December–February) – A snowy wonderland with world-class skiing and cozy mountain huts. You’ll need winter tires and flexibility in case of storms.
      • Spring (March–May) – Quiet and peaceful, but many passes and trails are still closed. Best if you’re okay with slower travel and fewer open huts.

      Number of Days for a Dolomites Road Trip

      I think 10–12 days is the sweet spot…enough to explore deeply without feeling rushed. But here’s how the trip scales:

      • 7 Days – Hit the highlights: Bolzano, Alpe di Siusi, Val Gardena, Cortina. Fast-paced, but beautiful.
      • 10–12 Days – Full loop including Alta Badia and Val di Fassa. More time to hike, relax, and explore without skipping anything.
      • 3–4 Weeks – You can dive into lesser-known valleys like Val di Funes or San Martino, do hut-to-hut treks, or slow travel your way through the range.

      Other Destinations to Consider on Your Road Trip

      If you’ve got extra days to spare — or just want to go deeper into the Dolomites after this trip — these are the places I keep bookmarking for return visits. Less crowded, just as beautiful, and full of their own character.

      • Val di Funes – Tucked away behind the Odle peaks, this valley looks like a fairytale painting. The view from Santa Maddalena Church is one of the most iconic in the Alps. Perfect for slow mornings, photo walks, and low-key hikes.
      • San Martino di Castrozza – A more off-the-radar mountain town surrounded by the Pale di San Martino group. I love the drama of the cliffs here — they rise like spires straight out of the earth. Great for hiking in summer and skiing in winter.
      • Brenta Dolomites – Technically a separate range west of the main Dolomites, but still part of the UNESCO area. It’s wilder, quieter, and ideal if you want to escape the more visited zones. Base yourself in Madonna di Campiglio for alpine glam with fewer crowds.
      • Val di Non – Best known for apples, castles, and deep gorges. In fall, the valley glows with orchards, and you can visit spots like Castel Thun or Lake Tovel — a glacial lake that turns red in rare conditions. A great contrast to the jagged peaks elsewhere.
      • Alpe Lusia and Passo San Pellegrino – Located between Moena and Falcade, this is a low-key area for hiking and skiing that offers big views without the big crowds. The trails here are some of the quietest I’ve walked in peak season.
      San Martino di Castrozza, with the Pale di San Martino peaks, is great for hiking and skiing.
      San Martino di Castrozza, with the Pale di San Martino peaks, is great for hiking and skiing.

      FAQs About Dolomites Road Trips

      Here are some popular questions (and answers) about how to plan a Dolomites road trip.

      What does a 7-day trip itinerary for the Dolomites look like?

      If you only have a week to explore the Dolomites, here are the must-see stops you’ll want to include on a road trip:

      • Day 1: Start your road trip in Bolzano. Explore the charming town, visit the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology to see Ötzi the Iceman, and stroll through Piazza Walther.
      • Day 2: Head to Alpe di Siusi. Enjoy the scenic cable car ride, hike through Europe’s largest high-altitude alpine meadow, and take in the stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
      • Day 3-4: Travel to Val Gardena. Visit the villages of Ortisei and Selva, hike up to the Seceda ridge for panoramic views, and explore the local wood carving traditions.
      • Day 5: Drive to Alta Badia. Take the Lagazuoi cable car for breathtaking views, explore Corvara, and savor gourmet meals at one of the Michelin-starred restaurants.
      • Day 6: Continue to Cortina d’Ampezzo. Visit Tre Cime di Lavaredo, hike to Lago di Sorapis, and explore the town’s vibrant center.
      • Day 7: Finish your trip in Val di Fassa. Take the cable car up to Sass Pordoi, hike around the Vajolet Towers, and relax at the thermal baths in Pozza di Fassa.

      Where exactly are the Dolomites?

      The Dolomites are situated primarily in the provinces of Belluno, South Tyrol, and Trentino. They stretch across the regions of Veneto, Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol, and Friuli Venezia Giulia. The Dolomites extend from the Adige River in the west to the Piave Valley in the east. They are bordered by the Puster Valley in the north and the Sugana Valley in the south.

      Contrary to popular belief, Trento and Merano are not part of the Dolomites. While they are located in the Trentino-Alto Adige region and are close to the Dolomites, these cities themselves are not within the Dolomite range. That is why I didn’t include these places in my Dolomites travel itinerary.

      How can you see the Dolomites in 5 days?

      Looking for a 5-day road trip itinerary for the Dolomites? Here’s an efficient yet enjoyable plan to make the most of your time:

      • Day 1: Start in Bolzano. Explore the city’s highlights, including Piazza Walther and the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology.
      • Day 2: Drive to Alpe di Siusi. Take the cable car, enjoy hiking in the meadows, and take in the views.
      • Day 3: Head to Val Gardena. Visit Ortisei, hike up to Seceda, and explore the local villages.
      • Day 4: Travel to Cortina d’Ampezzo. Visit Tre Cime di Lavaredo, and stroll through the town center.
      • Day 5: Explore Val di Fassa. Take the cable car up to Sass Pordoi and enjoy the scenic views.
      Seceda features steep, dramatic slopes and distinctive peaks rising above a lush green valley in the Dolomites.
      Seceda features steep, dramatic slopes and distinctive peaks rising above a lush green valley in the Dolomites.

      What are some scenic routes to take in the Dolomites?

      • Great Dolomites Road (Grande Strada delle Dolomiti): This famous route runs from Bolzano to Cortina d’Ampezzo, offering spectacular mountain views and plenty of opportunities for scenic stops.
      • Sella Pass: Drive through this breathtaking pass for stunning views of the Sella Group and surrounding peaks.
      • Gardena Pass: Another beautiful pass connecting Val Gardena and Val Badia, offering panoramic views and excellent photo opportunities.

      Are there any toll roads in the Dolomites?

      While there aren’t many toll roads specifically in the Dolomites, you might encounter tolls on major highways leading into the region. Be prepared with cash or a credit card for convenience. For instance, if you’re driving from Venice or Milan, you’ll use toll roads.

      What type of car should you use for your road trip?

      For a Dolomites road trip, I recommend using a car that handles well on mountainous and winding roads. A compact SUV or a mid-size car with good fuel efficiency and reliable performance on steep inclines and sharp turns is ideal. During the winter months, ensure that your vehicle is equipped with winter tires or snow chains, as roads can be icy and snowy.

      Embark on an unforgettable journey through Dolomites with this road trip
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      Jon Miksis

      About Jon Miksis

      Award-winning Travel Writer • Founder of Global Viewpoint • 70+ countries visited • 10 Million+ readers

      Since 2017, I’ve traveled 3–6 months a year, sharing detailed guides that have helped over 10 million readers travel smarter, deeper, and better. My work blends firsthand experiences — from U.S. road trips and cold-plunge cabins to Michelin-starred dining and business-class flights — with honest, independent reviews.

      I’ve been hired by leading tourism boards in 7 countries across Europe, North America, and South America, as well as international travel brands. My travel tips and insights have been featured in Forbes, HuffPost, Yahoo Travel, and The Boston Globe. I’ve personally reviewed 500+ hotels, retreats, and flight experiences — and I never recommend a place I wouldn’t return to myself.

      I also save $5–10K per year on airfare using flight tools and 10+ travel credit cards, and I’ve invested over $100K into personal development through transformational retreats and coaching since 2021.

      When I’m not road-tripping across the Northeast or writing guides for Global Viewpoint, you’ll find me cold plunging in local lakes, sipping espresso in quiet cafes in Vienna, or chasing fall foliage across New England. I split my time between exploring the world and soaking up life in Boston, my lifelong home base. Some of my favorite places I keep going back to? Switzerland, Spain, Iceland, Italy, Greece, the Faroe Islands, Guatemala, California, Montana, Vermont, and coastal Maine in autumn.

      See my latest adventures on Instagram and TikTok.

      Read more | Editorial Policy | Press Page

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