Things to do in Cortina d’Ampezzo 

Last updated on October 19th, 2026.

Cortina d'Ampezzo is an alpine town in the Dolomites, northeastern Italy, set at 1,224m in the Belluno province of Veneto. It’s one of Italy's most celebrated mountain destinations, known for world-class skiing in winter, hiking and alpine lakes in summer and the glamorous pedestrian street Corso Italia year-round. The nearest international airport is Venice Marco Polo, approximately 2 hours by car. A car is strongly recommended for exploring the surrounding lakes and towns. The most visited attractions include Lake Misurina, Tre Cime di Lavaredo, Lago di Sorapis and the cable cars to Tofana and Faloria.

Cortina d'Ampezzo sits in the heart of the Dolomites, a UNESCO-listed mountain landscape in northeastern Italy that stops you in your tracks the first time you see it.

It's best known for world-class skiing, dramatic peaks and the kind of outdoor activities that draw serious adventurers from across Europe.

But Cortina has another side entirely.

The town itself is elegant, the shopping street is glamorous and there's more than enough to keep non-sporty visitors happy for days.

We've visited twice in September and once in winter, and the two experiences felt like completely different destinations. But both are worth it.

In this guide I'll cover the best things to do in Cortina d'Ampezzo across every season, the lakes and mountain passes worth the drive, where to stay, how to get there and everything worth knowing before you go.

Powered by GetYourGuide

The complete and essential guide to visiting Cortina d’Ampezzo, use this guide to plan your trip to Italy. 

A red floral pathway leading to a mountain view in Cortina d'Ampezzo Italy
Jump to:

Where is Cortina d’Ampezzo


Cortina d'Ampezzo sits in the province of Belluno in northeastern Italy, part of the wider Veneto region. It's approximately 160km north of Venice and around 48km from the Austrian border.

Set within the Dolomites at an elevation of 1,224m, Cortina is surrounded by dramatic limestone peaks and alpine valleys. It's one of the best places in the Dolomites for panoramic views in every direction.


Where are the Dolomites? 

The Dolomites (Dolomiti) are a mountain range in northeastern Italy and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Spanning over 1,400sq km across Veneto, Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol and Friuli Venezia Giulia, the range is defined by its pale limestone formations. Jagged peaks rising sharply above green valleys in a landscape unlike anywhere else in Europe.

Cortina sits in the Veneto region, an area locally known as Dolomiti Bellunesi. Hiking, biking, climbing, skiing and via ferrata draw visitors year-round, but the scenery alone justifies the journey.

Sign of Cortina and the Olympic rings on a bridge

What is the nearest airport to Cortina d’Ampezzo? 

There are no international airports close to Cortina.

The nearest options are Venice Marco Polo (approximately 2 hours by car) and Verona Valerio Catullo (approximately 3 hours).

See the international airports in Italy guide for full details, or skip ahead to the how to get there section below. 


Map of Cortina d'Ampezzo and the Dolomites

The Dolomites around Cortina d’Ampezzo are vast.

Lakes, passes and viewpoints are spread across a wide area and distances that look short on a map can involve winding mountain roads.

Use the map below before you plan your days.

Everything is color-coded by category: lakes, mountain passes, surrounding towns, town center highlights and practical rifugio stops.


Best things to do in Cortina d’Ampezzo 

Given its mountainous location, most of the best things to do in Cortina d'Ampezzo involve some form of outdoor activity.

That said, there's plenty for non-sporty visitors too, which I'll cover further below.

Lisa Rivera standing by Lake Misurina Italy

What to do in Cortina d’Ampezzo in summer 

Clear skies and warm, but not oppressive, temperatures make summer one of the best times to visit.

The crowds are manageable and the landscape is at its most vivid. What’s more, the range of activities suits everyone from serious hikers to families seeking cool mountain air away from the coastal heat.

Hiking  

Tre Cime di Lavaredo

Tre Cime di Lavaredo is the most iconic landmark in the Dolomites. Its three distinctive rocky peaks rising to over 2,900m have become the defining image of northeastern Italy's mountains.

Even if you don't hike, the sight of the three peaks against the sky will stop you in your tracks.

The base for Tre Cime is Rifugio Auronzo. It’s accessible via a toll road from Auronzo di Cadore, around 45 minutes by car from Cortina.

From 2025, parking at Rifugio Auronzo must be reserved in advance and spaces fill quickly in July and August.

Book as early as possible or take the bus service from Cortina d'Ampezzo to avoid the parking issue entirely.

Most visitors come for the circular hiking trail around the three peaks.

It’s approximately 10km and suitable for reasonably fit walkers with good footwear. Beginners might prefer booking a private guided hike to Tre Cime di Lavaredo. 

But the view from Rifugio Auronzo itself, before you've taken a single step on the trail, is already extraordinary.


Santa Caterina Lake (Lago di Santa Caterina)

What many visitors miss entirely is the lake at Auronzo di Cadore on the approach road.

Lago di Santa Caterina is a beautiful turquoise lake in the valley below Rifugio Auronzo. We stopped here on our visit and it was one of the most peaceful spots of the entire trip. If the crowds at Rifugio Auronzo feel overwhelming, the lake below offers a quieter and equally beautiful alternative.

Rifugio Auronzo, SP49, Auronzo di Cadore

Lisa Rivera standing by Lake Santa Caterina in Auronzo di Cadore Italy
Standing by Lake Santa Caterina (Lago di Santa Caterina) in Auronzo di Cadore

Other places to hike in Cortina d’Ampezzo include: 

  • Cinque Torri – a rock formation of five distinctive peaks also popular for skiing and climbing 
  • Sorapis Lake (Lago di Sorapis) – a mesmerizing turquoise lake 
  • Tofana di Rozes – one for experienced hikers that takes you to one of the highest peaks of Tofana. 

Passo Giau

Passo Giau is one of the most spectacular mountain passes in the entire Dolomites.

The high alpine road located at 2,236m has 360 views of the surrounding peaks including Nuvolau, Ra Gusela and the Marmolada glacier in the distance.

It’s around 30 minutes by car from Cortina, where the drive itself is an attraction. As you climb through alpine meadows, views open up dramatically as you gain altitude.

In summer the meadows are carpeted with wildflowers; in autumn the colors are extraordinary.

You don't need to hike or cycle to appreciate Passo Giau. Pull over at the top, walk to any of the viewpoints and take in one of the most cinematic mountain panoramas in Italy.

Rifugio Giau at the summit serves food and coffee and makes a natural stopping point.

Passo Giau, approximately 32 minutes by car from Cortina d'Ampezzo


Climbing  

For those who want more than a walking trail, Cortina's via ferrata routes offer a step up in challenge and reward.

See also  When to visit Sicily 

Fixed cables, ladders and suspension bridges take you across exposed rock faces with extraordinary Dolomite panoramas.

Join a Via Ferrata experience if you're new to the activity; a guided route is strongly recommended for first-timers.


Mountain biking  

Passo Giau, 32 minutes by car from Cortina, is one of the most rewarding mountain biking routes in the Dolomites.

The combination of challenging switchbacks, high altitude and uninterrupted views across the surrounding peaks makes it a destination in its own right, not just a cycling route.


lakes and scenic drives near Cortina d'Ampezzo

The lakes around Cortina are one of the highlights of the entire region, and one of my favorite parts of this guide to write.

Some are a short drive and completely flat on arrival. Others require a serious hike to reach.

Starting from the closest to Cortina, here are the most spectacular lakes worth adding to your itinerary:

  • Scin Lake (Lago Scin) (9 mins drive)  
  • Ghedina Lakes (Laghi Ghedina) (15 mins drive) 
  • Sorapis Lake (Lago Sorapis) (24 mins drive) 
  • Lake Misurina (Lago di Misurina) (24 mins drive) 
  • Limides Lake (Lago Limides) (30 mins drive) 
  • Lagazuoi Lake (Lago Lagazuoi) (1hr 37mins drive) 

The two worth knowing most about are Misurina and Sorapis, details on both follow below.


Lake Misurina (Lago di Misurina)

Of all the lakes near Cortina, Lake Misurina is the most accessible and the most family-friendly.

Sitting at 1,754m, the lake is accessible entirely by road. there’s no hiking required, and the flat path around its perimeter makes it suitable for all ages and mobility levels.

Lake Misurina’s setting is also extraordinary. On calm days the Dolomite peaks reflect in the water, and the Tre Cime di Lavaredo towers are visible from the lake's edge. It makes Lake Misurina the best viewpoint for the landmark without needing to drive the toll road.

Lisa Rivera with her baby daughter at Lake Misurina, Italy
Standing with my baby daughter at Lake Misurina, Italy

The surrounding mountains include Sorapiss, Cadini di Misurina and the distinctive Cristallo.

We visited Lake Misurina with our baby daughter and had no difficulties whatsoever. The lake path is flat and stroller-friendly and the rifugio at the water's edge serves food and coffee. The whole experience takes around an hour at a relaxed pace.

If you're visiting Cortina with young children or anyone who can't manage a serious hike, Misurina is the lake to prioritize.

Lago di Misurina, Misurina, Auronzo di Cadore


Sorapis Lake (Lago di Sorapis)

Lago di Sorapis is arguably the most beautiful lake in the Cortina area. It has an intense, almost unnatural turquoise color created by fine glacial particles suspended in the water.

Photos of it circulate widely online and it's become one of the most sought-after destinations in the Dolomites.

However, it's also one of the most demanding to reach.

The hike from the Passo Tre Croci car park takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours each way.

It involves significant elevation gain and requires proper hiking boots, appropriate clothing and a reasonable level of fitness.

It isn't a casual walk nor is it suitable for families with young children, elderly visitors or anyone without hiking experience.

If the hike is beyond what you're planning for your trip, the lake is still worth knowing about. The drive to Passo Tre Croci offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the area is beautiful even from the road.

Trailhead: Passo Tre Croci, approximately 24 minutes from Cortina d'Ampezzo


exploring Cortina town center

Cortina d’Ampezzo has plenty to see and do that doesn’t involve skis or hiking boots.

Small boutique shop in Cortina d'Ampezzo Italy
Small boutique shop on Corso Italia

Shopping 

Cortina d’Ampezzo is a shopping mecca — a luxury shopping mecca. 

Independent boutiques sit alongside high-end designer shops on the main shopping street, Corso Italia. Expensive brand names are the norm as are very well-dressed people. 

Despite this, the atmosphere on Corso Italia surprised me.

Given the obvious wealth of Cortina's typical clientele, I'd expected a certain aloofness. However, the staff in the shops and cafes were professional and welcoming regardless of whether you were browsing or buying.

We stopped for a coffee and brioche at Lovat Bar Pasticceria and felt completely at ease. The prices were higher than normal but the experience was pleasant.

There are some affordable shops, like Italian chain store, OVS, but these are a rarity. Prices here tend to be on the higher side even for basic products like toothpaste.

Because of this, be sure to bring basic essentials if planning on staying in Cortina d'Ampezzo. I cover this topic, and much more, in my tips on visiting the Dolomites.

Rows of toothpaste on sale in Cortina d'Ampezzo Italy
Rows of (expensive) toothpaste

Cortina’s town center 

Cortina's center is photogenic and unhurried.

Cobbled streets, colorful window boxes, cafes and a main pedestrian street lined with upscale boutiques.

Beyond Corso Italia, take a short walk to Via Cesare Battisti where an Olympic rings display leads to one of the best mountain viewpoints in the town center.

Cortina hosted the Winter Olympics in 1956 and co-hosted the 2026 Games with Milan. The infrastructure upgrades that followed, including improved roads and new cable car systems, benefit visitors year-round.

Olympic rings display in Cortina d'Ampezzo Italy

Visit museums and galleries 

For a town its size, Cortina has a surprisingly rich cultural offer. The three main museums share a building on Via Marangoi and together make a worthwhile hour or two:

Outside Farsettiarte in Cortina d'Ampezzo Italy
Statue outside Farsettiarte
  • Paleontology Museum (Museo Paleontologico "Rinaldo Zardini"), Via Marangoi, 1 
  • Ethnography Museum (Museo Etnografico Regole d'Ampezzo), Via Marangoi, 1 
  • Museum of Modern Art (Museo d'Arte Moderna "Mario Rimoldi" - Ciasa de Ra Regoles), Corso Italia, 69 

Other options worth noting:

  • Farsettiarte Cortina, Piazza Roma, 10 (art gallery) 
  • Dolom.it Museum (Museo Dolom.it), Via Majon di Sopra, 100 
  • Lagazuoi Gallery (Galleria Lagazuoi) (open-air museum in the mountains) Passo Falzarego 
  • Forte Tre Sassi (open-air museum in the mountains), SP 24 del Passo Valparola  

The two open-air mountain museums are particularly worth considering if you're interested in the WWI history of the region. The Dolomites saw intense fighting between Italian and Austro-Hungarian forces and the restored tunnels and fortifications at Lagazuoi are extraordinary.


Things to do in Cortina d'Ampezzo in winter

Skiing and snowboarding dominate Cortina in winter, and with good reason.

Over 120km of slopes across multiple ski areas make it one of Italy's finest winter destinations, welcoming all levels from beginners to advanced skiers.

Ski areas

Ski Area Tofana (Socrepes) is Cortina's main resort, with Rifugio Socrepes and Baita Piè Tofana serving food on the mountain.

The nearby areas of Lagazuoi and Faloria have their own ski runs, cable cars and mountain services. A short drive away, Misurina, best known for its lake, also has a ski area worth knowing about.

Statue outside Hotel Royal in Cortina d'Ampezzo Italy

How to get to the ski areas in Cortina 

  • By car – ski lifts are well signposted with designated parking areas 
  • By cable car – three main cable cars connect the town directly to the slopes.
  1. Faloria S.p.A., Via Ria de Zeto, 10 
  2. Funivia/Cable car Tofana - Freccia nel Cielo, Via dello Stadio, 12 
  3. Funivia Lagazuoi, Passo Falzarego 
See also  Top 60+ fun free attractions in Sicily 

Cross-country skiing 

Over 70km of cross-country trails wind through the surrounding snowscape, one of the most extensive networks in the Dolomites.

Snowshoeing and ice climbing 

For something off the main slopes, snowshoes open up the quieter trails around Cortina. Ice climbing on frozen waterfalls is also available for those who want a more serious winter challenge.

Ride the cable cars 

Even non-skiers should take at least one cable car. The Tofana cable car climbs to 3,244m, one of the highest accessible points in the Dolomites, with views that extend across the entire range on a clear day.

The Lagazuoi cable car is equally dramatic and sits above the WWI open-air museum at Passo Falzarego.

Independent boutiques in Cortina d'Ampezzo Italy
Independent boutiques on Corso Italia in Cortina d'Ampezzo Italy

Travel to surrounding towns 

One of the pleasures of staying in this part of the Dolomites is the number of smaller towns within easy reach.

A car makes exploring them significantly easier. Local bus services are limited in this region, so hiring a car is strongly recommended if you want flexibility.

As someone who enjoys seeking out lesser-known places, adding a few of these to your itinerary is worth the effort.

Some are pleasant passing-through stops; others reward a longer visit. Arranged from closest to furthest from Cortina:

  • San Vito di Cadore (13 mins drive) A quieter and more affordable base than Cortina. We stayed here on our own visit and found it an excellent compromise between cost and convenience.
  • Borca di Cadore (19 mins drive) 
  • Vodo di Cadore (21 mins drive) 
  • Pieve di Cadore (38 mins drive) Birthplace of the Renaissance painter Titian. 
  • Dobbiaco (40 mins drive) Northern gateway to the Dolomites with South Tyrolean character.
  • Auronzo di Cadore (45 mins drive). Gateway to the Tre Cime toll road and home to Lago di Santa Caterina, a turquoise lake most visitors drive straight past on their way to Rifugio Auronzo. 

Things to do in Cortina with kids 

Cortina and the Dolomites may not seem like an obvious family destination, but the region is far more accommodating to parents with babies and young children than you might expect.

We visited when our daughter was just two months old. She was too young to experience much, but my husband and I had no difficulties traveling around with her.

⏩️ See: Traveling to Italy with a baby (the complete guide)

The main consideration is transport. A car is essential for families, as many of the best spots are spread across the region.

Lisa Rivera standing by Lake Cadore in Italy

Skate at the Olympic Ice Stadium 

The Stadio Olimpico del Ghiaccio is one of the best things to do in Cortina with kids in winter.

First used for the 1956 Winter Olympics, the stadium is open to the public. Inside is an ice-skating rink, a children's playground, a solarium and skating instructors on site.

The stadium is around a 10-minute walk from the center.

Head north along Corso Italia, turn right onto Via del Castello and continue for around 500m to the roundabout. Cross to Via Alberto Bonacossa and the stadium is ahead. Bus 030 from stop 'Bivio via Grohmann' also runs directly to 'Cortina Stadio Autostazione' in around 6 minutes.

Stadio Olimpico del Ghiaccio, Via dello Stadio, Cortina d'Ampezzo

Play at an outdoor park 

Just 6 minutes by car from the center, M'Over Family Park has swings, slides, outdoor playsets and bike ramps. It’s a good option for burning off energy between mountain drives.

M’Over Family Park, Località Verocai, 109

Go on a family-friendly hike 

For families with older children, this guided hike to the Fanes Waterfalls is suitable for all ages and skill levels.

The route passes behind a waterfall with a professional alpine guide and is memorable for children and adults alike.


Where to stay in Cortina d’Ampezzo 

Cortina d'Ampezzo has accommodation to suit every budget and travel style. From 5-star mountain resorts to traditional rifugi perched above the treeline.

Outside Grand Hotel Savoia in Cortina d'Ampezzo Italy
Outside Grand Hotel Savoia

Best Cortina d’Ampezzo Hotels 

  • Grand Hotel Savoia Cortina d’Ampezzo – five-star, modern alpine style, mountain views throughout. One of Cortina's most celebrated addresses. 
  • Faloria Mountain Spa Resort – wellness-focused resort in tranquil surroundings. Ideal for a restorative stay between active days.  
  • Ambra Cortina Luxury & Fashion Boutique Hotel – centrally located boutique hotel with elegant decor and a colorful cocktail bar. 
  • Hotel Trieste – a traditional mountain-style 3-star hotel within walking distance of the city center and Olympic Stadium.  
  • Albergo La Montanina – budget-friendly and well-regarded for its location close to Cortina.  
  • Rifugio Nuvolau – a mountain hut located at 8,445ft (2,575m) atop Mount Nuvolau.
Hotel de la Poste in Cortina d'Ampezzo Italy
Hotel de la Poste on Corso Italia in Cortina d'Ampezzo Italy

A note on staying outside Cortina

Accommodation in Cortina is expensive, particularly in peak ski season and July/August. San Vito di Cadore, just 13 minutes by car, is more affordable and where we based ourselves on our own visit.

See the 'Is Cortina expensive' section above for more on this.

Rifugio Nuvolau

A rifugio is a mountain hut offering basic accommodation and meals, a distinctly Italian Alpine tradition found throughout the Dolomites.

Rifugio Nuvolau sits at 2,575m atop Mount Nuvolau and offers some of the most extraordinary views in the entire range.

Rooms are shared, bathrooms are communal and advance booking is essential. It's open June to September, check the website before planning your visit.

Getting there requires a hike.

The most straightforward route starts from Passo Giau (34 minutes by car from Cortina). It takes approximately 1.5 hours on foot depending on pace.

Alternatively, take the cable car from Bai de Dones to Cinque Torri (around 15 minutes) and hike the final hour from there.

Rifugio Nuvolau is generally open during the summer months from June to September. Check the website for the most up-to-date information. 

For a broader overview of accommodation options across the region, see my guide to where to stay in the Dolomites.


How to get to Cortina d’Ampezzo 

Cortina is accessible by car, bus and train.

However, a car gives you by far the most flexibility for exploring the surrounding lakes and towns.

Cortina Express bus in Cortina d'Ampezzo Italy
Cortina Express bus in Cortina d'Ampezzo Italy

From Venice to Cortina 

There are several options to take if traveling from Venice to Cortina d’Ampezzo. 

By car 

Follow the A27 motorway north then the SS51, approximately 2hrs 10mins. Renting a car is the most practical option if you plan to explore beyond Cortina itself.

By bus 

The Cortina Express runs directly from Venice and Venice Marco Polo Airport to Cortina, taking around 2.5 hours.

Tickets start from €15 one way and can be booked in advance on the Cortina Express website. A reliable and affordable option for those traveling without a car.

Dolomitibus driving in Cortina d'Ampezzo Italy
Dolomitibus driving in Cortina d'Ampezzo Italy

By train 

Take a train from Venezia Mestre to Calalzo di Cadore, the nearest station, which is approximately 35km from Cortina.

Regular buses from Calalzo complete the journey in around 1 hour.


From Verona to Cortina 

The following details the different ways on how to get from Verona to Cortina. 

car 

Around 3 hours via the SR11, E70, A27 and SS51.

By bus 

The Cortina Express route via Venice is the most straightforward option.

See also  Things to do in Orvieto: a local's 1-day itinerary

Alternatively, Flixbus 411 runs directly from Verona to Cortina in approximately 4 hours.

Train

Take a train from Verona to Venezia Mestre, then follow the Calalzo di Cadore route as above.


From Vicenza to Cortina

We drove from Vicenza, approximately 2.5 hours following the A27 north through the Belluno province.

The drive passes Belluno, a pretty provincial city worth a coffee stop/lunch if time allows. The approach to Cortina through the mountains in the final stretch is one of the most beautiful drives in northern Italy.

Lisa Rivera standing on Corso Italia in Cortina d Ampezzo Italy - Cortina d'Ampezzo travel guide
Standing in Corso Italia in Cortina d'Ampezzo Italy

without a car 

If you'd prefer to leave the driving to someone else, several guided tour options cover Cortina and the surrounding Dolomites:


Best time to visit Cortina d'Ampezzo

The best time to visit Cortina d'Ampezzo depends entirely on what you want from the trip.

Winter (December to March)

Peak ski season. Average daytime temperatures range from -5°C to 5°C; cold enough for reliable snow conditions across 120km of slopes. The busiest and most expensive period, but the atmosphere is electric if winter sports are your priority.

Pharmacy on Corso Italia in Cortina d'Ampezzo Italy
Pharmacy on Corso Italia in Cortina d'Ampezzo Italy

Spring (April to June)

A quieter window before the summer crowds arrive. Temperatures range from 5°C to 15°C: ideal for hiking and exploring the surrounding towns and passes without the July/August peak. Some higher trails and rifugi may still be closed in early April.

Summer (July to September)

Peak season for outdoor enthusiasts. Long days, warm temperatures (15°C to 25°C) and the lakes and hiking trails at their most accessible. Unlike the coastal cities further south, the mountain air keeps the heat manageable.

We visited in early September and found the conditions ideal.

Daytime temperatures reached around 29°C but it never felt oppressive, nothing like the humidity of Venice or the Amalfi Coast.

The region never feels overcrowded even in peak season, as the landscape is simply too vast for any one area to feel overwhelmed.

The one consideration for late summer is the food: mountain cuisine is rich and heavy. It’s welcoming in winter after a day on the slopes, but harder to digest in the August heat or early September.

One honest note on late summer: mountain cuisine here is rich and heavy.

It’s wonderful after a day on the slopes in winter, but harder to digest in the August heat. Keep that in mind when planning your meals.

See my guides to visiting Italy in August and in September for broader seasonal advice.


Autumn (October to November)

Cooler temperatures (5°C to 15°C) but still rewarding. Autumn colors in the Dolomites are extraordinary and the trails are quieter.

Some mountain services close by late October so check opening dates before planning specific hikes or rifugio visits.

⏩️ Read: October in Italy travel guide


Is Cortina d'Ampezzo expensive?

Yes, Cortina d’Ampezzo is one of the more expensive destinations in Italy.

It’s a town that attracts wealthy Italian and international visitors, and prices across accommodation, food and shopping reflect that clientele.

Accommodation costs are particularly high during peak ski season (December to March) and the main summer weeks of July and August. Shoulder season visits in September/October or April/May typically offer better value.

Food follows the same pattern.

Restaurants on and around Corso Italia are premium-priced. Moving a street or two away from the main pedestrian strip usually improves value.

The mountain rifugio system offers one of the better value dining experiences in the area. They serve simple, hearty alpine food at reasonable prices with extraordinary views.

My best practical budget tip is to base your stay in a nearby town.

San Vito di Cadore (approximately 13 minutes by car) is cheaper than Cortina for accommodation but close enough to visit easily. We based ourselves here on our own visit and found it an excellent compromise between cost and convenience.

Everyday essentials like toiletries and basic groceries, are noticeably more expensive in Cortina than in standard Italian towns. Bring basics from elsewhere rather than buying in town.


Last words

What are your thoughts on this guide to things to do in Cortina d’Ampezzo? Does it look like a town and region you’d like to visit? Let me know in the comments below. 

*information correct at time of publishing 

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that I’ve recommended. Thank you for your support.

Written by Lisa Rivera: Italy traveler and resident for 10+ years. First-hand researched for 2026.


FAQs about Cortina d'Ampezzo

Is Cortina d'Ampezzo worth visiting?

Yes, both in summer and winter. In winter it's one of Italy's finest ski destinations. In summer the hiking, alpine lakes and mountain scenery attract a completely different crowd. The town is beautiful, the food is excellent and the surrounding Dolomites landscape is extraordinary. A rainbow over Cortina d'Ampezzo Italy - things to do in Cortina d'Ampezzo

How many days do you need in Cortina d'Ampezzo?

Three to five days covers the main highlights comfortably. This covers the lakes, cable cars, day trips to Tre Cime and Passo Giau and time in the town itself. A week allows a slower pace and more of the surrounding towns and passes.

Is Cortina d'Ampezzo expensive?

Yes, it's one of the pricier destinations in northern Italy. Peak ski season (December to March) and July/August are the most expensive periods. Basing yourself in a nearby town like San Vito di Cadore can help to reduce accommodation costs.

What is Cortina d'Ampezzo known for?

World-class skiing, Dolomites scenery, the luxury shopping street Corso Italia, alpine lakes including Lake Misurina and Lago di Sorapis, and its association with the Winter Olympics. It hosted the games in 1956 and co-hosted in 2026.

How do you get from Venice to Cortina d'Ampezzo?

By car via the A27 motorway takes approximately 2hrs 10mins. The Cortina Express bus runs directly from Venice and Venice Marco Polo Airport, taking around 2.5 hours with tickets from €15 one way. By train and bus via Calalzo di Cadore is also possible but less convenient.

When is the best time to visit Cortina d'Ampezzo?

December to March for skiing. June to September for hiking, lakes and outdoor activities. September is good, as it’s warm but not humid, and there are fewer crowds than July and August. Spring (April to May) suits hikers who want quieter trails before peak season.

Like this post? Pin it!

A rainbow over Cortina d'Ampezzo Italy - things to do in Cortina d'Ampezzo

You Might Also Like

28 Comments

  1. Great guide! Cortina d’Ampezzo sounds like a dream for both adventure seekers and those looking for a more relaxed experience. I love how you’ve highlighted everything from skiing and snowshoeing to the breathtaking cable car rides with panoramic views of the Dolomites. Definitely adding this to my list for my next trip to Italy—those views from Tofana di Mezzo sound incredible!

    1. You would love the views from here especially as you love the outdoors! Cortina and the Dolomites are a stunning town and region, consider visiting one day

  2. Cortina D'ampezzo is truly stunning! Apart from skiing and other adventurous activities, this place seems to offer hiking, and other activities like walking by the beautiful lakes. What I loved from your pictures is the bunch of flowers hanging out of balconies and windows! So pretty. I am adding this to my bucket list and will check out the dolomites some day. 🙂

  3. I would loev to visit Cortina d’Ampezzo some day as this spot is gorgeous and I love all of the breathtaking scenery! I will for sure be adding this post to my travel bucket list and appreciate you sharing. Love the pictures too 🙂

  4. I love that there’s something for everyone, whether we’re in the mood for outdoor fun or just soaking in the beautiful scenery.

  5. The scenery here is just beautiful! Sounds like an amazing place to visit. My daughter went to Europe last year and she had an amazing time, there was so much to do and the mountains are just gorgeous. I would love to visit some day!

  6. I do not think I have ever heard of this part of Italy! It looks like a fantastic place to be close to nature on holiday.

  7. This is a very detailed guide to Cortina! What a beautiful place for a vacation. I would love to visit this place if given the chance!

  8. To be honest, I have never heard of this place. But I am absolutely delighted to read about it and feel like visiting it asap

  9. Oh wow, Cortina looks stunning. I can definitely see an Austrian look being in the north with the beautiful mountains. An alpine style hotel really does sound amazing to stay in too.

  10. I've not heard of Cortina Dampezzo before. It sounds like a hidden gem that I'd love to explore. I do love places with natural settings and I bet the views there are remarkable. I'd love to hike there with my kiddies!

  11. There looks like there is just so much to see and experience there! I'm absolutely in love with the floral pathway though, it looks like something I'd insist on making in minecraft, lol.

  12. I've never been to Cortina omg...The flowers, the scenery, the architecture, everything looks so beautiful, so beautiful. I can't wait to explore this beautiful city, can't wait.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *