Top Dolomites Tours & Vacations 2024/2025 [reviews & photos]

Dolomites Tours & Travel Packages 2024/2025

31 Dolomites trips. Compare tour itineraries from 29 tour companies. 348 reviews. 4.7/5 avg rating.

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Top Dolomites Attractions & Experiences

Dolomites Tours & Travel Guide

Dolomites Attractions & Landmarks Guide

The Dolomites is one of the favorite destinations of hikers and nature lovers. This stunning mountain range is located in the Northern Italian Alps. It runs along the northeastern border of Austria and Italy and runs through the Italian provinces of Alto Adige, Trentino, and Belluno. Dolomites tours are the perfect way to experience a different side of Italy.

How Large Is The Dolomites Mountain Range?

Containing about 18 majestic peas, this wide mountain range spreads on more than 350,000 acres and contains sheer rock faces, deep gorges, verdant valleys, lush forests, and icy glaciers.

The highest point of this mountain range is about 11,000 feet above sea level. There are numerous Dolomites hiking routes for hiking lovers with magnificent scenery.

Common & Popular Dolomites Hiking Tour Routes

1. Alta Via

This 150 km hiking trail is not very famous but is certainly one of the most stunning Dolomites hiking routes in Italy. This long trail starts from Braies Lake, the largest natural lake of Dolomites, passing through the center of the Limestone Alps and their dramatic cliffs and various other magnificent landscapes, rugged mountains, glacial cliffs, and much more, ends at Belluno village.

2. Tre Cime di Lavaredo

The moderate leveled hiking trail is perfect for anyone who is looking for an easy way to explore the beauty of dolomites. Be ready to witness the trilogy of Tre Cime, the perfect shaped triplet peaks. Enjoy the indescribable peace of the magnificent landscape and forget about everything else.

3. Bullaccia

The 5 miles hike is a pretty and easy trail along the Alpe di Siusi. Enjoy the beauty of nature with colorful flowers everywhere and the stunning views surrounding you. No matter what time of the year you choose to visit you will always find magnificent scenery waiting for you. Take a break in some Refugio along the way to have lunch or drink.

4. Lago di Braies

Another worth visiting and easy to hike trail is of Lago di Braies. The view of the emerald-colored lake is going to imprint on your mind forever. This circuit trail takes you around the beautiful lake. There are benches on the way so you can sit back, relax and enjoy the beautiful view.

5. Passo Pordoi

This moderately difficult trail is more than 6 miles long but is surely one of the most photogenic Dolomites hiking trails. Get a panoramic view of the amazing Marmolada Glacier from your route. The hike becomes very steep at some points but you will find various sign boards to help you on the way.

6. Lago di Sorapis

This 6 miles long trail is surely the type which every hiker dreams of. Beautiful lake, enchanting forests, and the stunning scenery. Not really recommended for beginners, this trail is very unique with the ever-changing path. Sometimes it gets very strenuous and at some points, it is just a flat way. Don’t forget to take your hiking boots and poles.

7. Falzarego Pass

The beginning patch of the Dolomites hiking trail is very difficult with a steep incline. This historical landmark is unique from other hikes as it will take you through a lot of caves, steps, and tunnels. You will find various sign marks along the way telling you the World War I events happened here. Bring some light lamp with you to pass through the caves and tunnels or you will have to go through a pitch-black area. 

8. Lago di Carezza

This hiking route is one of the must-visit trails of the Dolomites that should be on everyone's bucket list. The track is surrounded by beautiful mountains, lush forests, and magnificent lake that together cast a magical effect on the route. You will hear a running river sound while passing through the forest patch. The path at the beginning is steep and rough but it gets smooth afterward.

9. Nuvolau Hike

This hiking trail not only show-offs some of the most magnificent views but also gives you the chance to witness the most beautiful rock formations of the world. The skyline behind you is dominated by La Tofana di Rozes that is a mountain group towards the south. The trail has guiding signs all over the path to guide you about steeps and dangerous turns.

10. Lagazuoi to Passo Falzarego Hike

This wonderful hike between Rifugio Lagazuoi and then back to Passo Falzarego is a beautiful trail in dolomites. Apart from the mountain views, you will have historical ruins, a gondola ride, and some of the best strudel of the world on the route.

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Wildlife in the Dolomites

The Dolomites is not only a region of rocks, lakes, and trails but is also home to a huge variety of wildlife. Dolomite has a very varied fauna with many common species, as well as a lot of animals that specifically interest scientists. The region has a huge variety of habitats that means that many various species have found it the ideal environment to live.

The ungulates category of Dolomites includes roe deer, deer, ibex, mouflon, and most commonly chamois, the goat-antelope species of mountains. The wet locations are home to many amphibians like alpine newts and fire salamander with its yellow and black color. For sunnier places reptiles such as European adders and vipers are common.

The forest fauna is consists of a huge number of squirrels, varieties of woodpeckers and owls, boreal owls, pygmy owls, spotted woodpeckers, and black woodpeckers are the most common. Other bird species include capercaillie, golden eagles, goshawks, rock ptarmigans, martens and bearded vultures. Marmots are also seen often at high altitude pastures along with rock ptarmigans, stoats and hares.

The Dolomites region also contains three large mammals that are golden jackals, lynxes, and bears. They might be seen at various points but their settles colonies have not yet seen here.

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Best Hiking Gear For The Dolomites

Packing for the Dolomites hiking varies greatly depending on the time of year you have chosen for your Dolomites tour. For summer you will need more sunscreen, easy clothes, etc. while for winter you will be needing more professional shoes, some other equipment to have a firm hiking experience.

Your travel backpack should be more for your comfort rather than the style. If you are going for a day hike don't burden yourself with extra things as you have to come back to the hotel at night. Keep in mind the few following things:

  • Your mobile phone should be fully charged with a good GPS so that you can check the routes and trails on the way.
  • Keep some cash with you in case you need for parking fees, cable car or bus charges or need to buy something on the route.
  • Your hiking shoes should be picked up with great care. Choose some strong and sturdy hiking boots that are comfortable in walking.
  • Keep plenty of water with you as you might face some water shortage on the way.
  • Travel snacks are very important. You don’t know how long you might have to walk or where can you find the shops or eateries.
  • Wear hiking pants and a t-shirt that is comfortable and lightweight to keep you easy during the journey.

Other than that, your backpack should contain the following items

  • An extra pair of clothes
  • Sunglasses
  • Sun hat and a warm cap
  • Sunscreen
  • Toilet paper
  • Gloves
  • Earplugs
  • Plenty of water
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Flashlight
  • First aid medicine
  • Energy bar or snack
  • Waterproof backpack cover
  • Breathable and waterproof jacket
  • Camera
  • Camera batteries
  • Trail map
  • Umbrella

Is Hiking in The Dolomites Difficult?

For most Dolomites hiking routes, it’s best to plan at least a week or two for a relaxing natural holiday. The views are amazing and stunning while the tracks are not very difficult. Most of the hikes in the Dolomites are easy-going and slow-paced but some are really challenging with steep paths and rough roads.

You will need to be physically ready before going for a hiking tour in Dolomites. For experienced hikers, these trails will not be very difficult but for beginners, some trails can be very challenging. 

No matter how expert you are, you should never skip training before going for a hike to have an enjoyable and pain-free experience. If your body is not used to all these difficulties it will cause body aches and spoil your holiday fun. Prepare your legs for hiking through long regular walks or treadmill at the gym, with your backpack on. This will increase your stamina and your body will be used to of the strenuous activity when you go hiking.

Where Can You Stay In The Dolomites

The vast region of the Dolomites if full of amazing towns and beautiful villages. Which place to make your base for your stay during Dolomites travel depends on what activities you are more interested in. The mountainous region has various stunning landscapes and attractive Dolomite hiking trails to offer.

The towns and villages are home to ancient buildings and the remains of the World War I destruction - a must visit for history buffs. The huge network of trains and buses can take you anywhere in the region but to avoid long-distance travel and wastage of time you should seek to take refuge at someplace closest to your intended activities and destination.

The following are some of the places that are more suitable to be used as a home base during Dolomites tours:

1. Ortisei

The largest town in the beautiful valley of Val Gardena, Ortisei serves as an ideal home base, especially if you are interested in hiking the magnificent trails and exploring high peaks. The town is surrounded by stunning snow peak mountains that are calling you to explore their beauty. The place is not only ideal for summer hiking but also for skiing in the freezing winter.

2. Belluno

The beautiful alpine town is the gateway to the stunning mountain range of the Dolomites. This charming city is located between Ardo and Piave rivers. You can go out to explore lush meadows, rolling hills, and amazing scenery. The place makes an amazing home base during dolomites travel especially if you are interested in trekking and mountain biking.

3. Cortina

This fashionable village is home to Cortina d'Ampezzo Ski Resort, one of the most famous and lavish ski resorts in the world. In addition to vast stunning scenery, the city is home to various art galleries, museums, luxury hotels, and dining restaurants. The nearby challenging hiking trails of Ferrata attract a huge number of mountain climbers every year.

4. Bolzano

This beautiful town is the capital of the South Tyrol region. This makes an excellent base to explore the surrounding, even the city itself has abundant sites to offer. The flower-lined promenades and colorful parks give this place a pretty natural look. The cable-car takes you to the ski areas giving you magnificent views of the surrounding mountains. The Archaeological Museum and Duomo di Bolzano are the must-sees.

5. Brunico

This large town was founded in the 13th century and is located adjacent to the Plan de Corones ski resort that makes it a popular place for winter sports lovers. The Messner Mountain Museums and Brunico Castle attract culture loves. In short, this place makes an ideal home base for everyone throughout the year.

6. Chiusa

This small town is situated at the center of the Eisack Valley and is a perfect base town during the Dolomites travel for those seeking a holiday with a mix of nature, culture, and art. Start your trip from the chestnut groves and wineries. The gothic churches, charming houses, narrow winding streets and various collections of art make this place worth visiting.

Best Time Of Year To Hike In The Dolomites

The delightful region is worth visiting around the year. Every season in the Dolomites offers you a different scene; snowy winter, warm clear and bright summer, colorful autumn and breezy spring. It depends on you and your plan what time you choose to hike in the mountains.

Summer is the most popular time for Dolomites travel hence, also the most packed time in the Dolomites. People from all over the world come to the mountain range in summer to enjoy the warm and pleasant sun at the top of the peaks. There is no risk of ice or snow, lots of accommodation options with open huts and warm temperatures are the perks of visiting in summer. However, all these good things bring a lot of people here so the track is packed with tourists.

Winter is not a suitable time to go hiking with abundant snowfall. You cannot hike without snowshoeing and even with that, you need to be very careful to avoid accidents. You should only go hiking in winter if you have good knowledge about the risks of avalanches and snow and you have the required devices with you.

Shoulder season (autumn and spring) are the ideal times for Dolomites travel and hiking up the mountain range. There are not many tourists on the path, temperatures are moderate but still, you can admire snow at some of the highest peaks. Huts are closed during this time but you will find other accommodations at cheap prices compared to summer.

Springtime is full of stunning and colorful flowers filling the valleys with their beauty. From late September to early November, the beautiful colors of autumn leaves; red, yellow, orange, dark green are something you should see for sure. Though the weather is moderate during this time you should still expect cold at some time or higher altitude, so, don’t forget to bring warm clothes with you.

Other Popular Hikes In Italy

In addition to the Dolomites travel, Italy is home to various magnificent and stunning hiking routes. From the volcano climbs of Sicily to the trails of Northern Italy, the region is full of amazing trails. Though they are not much popular like other hiking destinations in the world, these trails can give you the experience of a lifetime.

1. Sentiero Azzurro

The blue trail takes you through the five pastel-colored fishing villages, from Riomaggiore to Monterosso, taking you through the olive groves, vineyards and the vast and magical blueness of Mediterranean. 

This 12-kilometer hike is a bit challenging but not overwhelming, with all the villages set apart at a small distance. Get a plate of fresh local seafood and chilled wine as a reward, at the end of each section.

2. Sentiero Degli Dei

The name of the trail, translating into "Path of Gods" justifies its name with the most stunning landscapes of the Amalfi Coast. This 10 km hike starts from Agerola and ends at Nocelle, providing not only the vast blue views of azure waters of the Mediterranean Sea but also the terraced vineyards, lemon orchards and remote villages at the shoreline.

3. Selvaggio Blu

This mesmerizing 30-mile track is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful treks of Italy, but is not for the fainthearted, as it is also one of the toughest ones. Better to take this trip with some knowledgeable person to help you with navigation.

On your way, you will encounter various hidden coves, old olive gardens, shepherd huts, limestone cliffs and rock climbing at multiple points.

4. Stromboli, Sicily’s Aeolian Islands

This short hike will take you to have a unique experience of hiking through one of the active volcanoes of the world. This moderately challenging walk will take you through the volcanic pebbles and black sand of the Aeolian Island and witness the explosions of the volcano.

As the volcano is still active so you cannot just go hiking anytime. Check with the authorities whether it is safe or not before planning the trip.

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5. Corno Grande

There are two different trails to reach this highest mountain peak of the Apennine range. The direct route for the more adventurous ones with a more challenging path and the normal route for those who are seeking for a moderate level of difficulty. The trails are packed with castles, chamois, eagles, seabirds and other wildlife variety. On the way, you will have a stunning view of the Adriatic Sea.

6. The Sella-Herbetet Traverse

The 20 km long and strenuous trail will take you through various beautiful lakes and give you the chance to climb up the tall heart of Gran Paradiso. This is the best spot to take some rest while enjoying the mesmerizing beauty of the surroundings. You can also encounter various animals like ibex, marmots, etc. that will be roaming about without being bothered about human presence.

7. Mount Vesuvius

This easy and short hike takes you to discover the once active volcano that destroyed a whole city. Also pay a visit to the ruins of Pompeii, destroyed by the eruption of this ancient mighty volcano. You will have the chance to encounter the ancient Roman buildings were destroyed by the lava and even some casts of the victims of the tragedy petrified.

8. The Green Way

The 10.5 km trail takes you through the spectacular views of Lake Como. You can get on this trail from various points along the shore, depending on how much you want to walk. Check out some fabulous villas on the way like Donatella Versace, George Clooney, etc.

9. Anello del Rinascimento

This moderate trail lets you through the beauty and history of Tuscany. This Florence trail offers various stunning landscapes that will leave you awestruck. Pass through ancient medieval towns, monasteries, lemon and olive orchards and much more. Choose from the various inns and taverns on the way to sit and have a relaxing time.

10. Mount Redentore Trail

The specialty of this hike is not only spectacular views but also the opportunity to encounter some of the beautiful wildlife in the region like ibex, seabirds, critters, sheep, and cattle. You will also come across various ruins, farmhouses, and churches on the way.

Stop at the summit to relax for some time and have a picnic before getting back down. Make sure to leave early as there is very little shade on the way, or at least wear a sufficient amount of sunscreen.

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Dolomites Reviews & Ratings

4.7/5  Excellent
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A

Anonymous

Oct 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

Dolomites, Lake Garda & Venice Ride - #118937

A great trip with a good cycle each day through stunning country side. Not...

A

Anonymous

Oct 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

Fantastic Ride Through Towns and Countryside

The ride was at a good pace, not too fast and not too slow. We passed through beautiful towns and countryside and there was ample opportunities to take photograph...

A

Anonymous

Oct 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

Fabulous

This trip was an easy downhill cycle from Bolzano to Venice. Starting in the Dolomites with the amazing mountains surrounding us we were cycling mainly on beautifu...

A

Anonymous

Oct 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

Cycling Dolmites,Lake Garda and Venice

The trip was excellent. Brilliant changing scenery. Our guide on the July trip was very knowledgeable, fun and paid attention to detail. With our Driver making a gr...

A

Anonymous

Oct 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

Amazing

This was our first Exodus trip after being recommended by a couple of friends - what an amazing trip!! Absolutely loved it - our guide Martino made the holiday - ...

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