Where to Base Yourself in the Dolomites in 2024

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Are you finally headed to the Dolomites and now wondering where to stay? Choosing the right area, type of accommodation and even places to visit can be puzzling at first. The Dolomites are not a small destination and has numerous villages, ski resorts, alpine lakes and hiking areas. This means visitors have many options. This might seem overwhelming, but it’s actually a huge benefit when looking at the best places to stay in the Dolomites.

The Dolomites are suitable for any type of traveler. First time visitors looking to catch major attractions, honeymooners tucked away in some of the best hotels in the world and adrenaline seeking athletes. With so many options to choose from, there is no doubt that you’ll find a hotel, apartment, chalet or even rifugio perfect for your stay.

We hope to save you some time on research and put together our recommendations for the best places to stay in the Dolomites. Before we get into our list, let’s cover some basics for visiting the Dolomites!

Planning on driving in the Dolomites? Read our guide and Dolomites road trip itinerary here.

Where Are the Dolomites?

If someone responds to your question of “Where are the Dolomites?” with “Italy!” then you still won’t know much about its location. The Dolomites just barely sit in Italy and are in very close to proximity to Austria which is more frequently known for mountains. Luckily, Italy gets to claim the Dolomites which is one of Europe’s most popular destinations for outdoor adventure.

The Dolomites are a family member of the Alps and more specifically, the Italian Alps. The mountain range impressively extends over the regions of Belluno, Bolzano, Trento, Udine, and Pordenone. So yeah, they’re pretty noticeable! Comprised of limestone peaks, alpine lakes and stunning valleys, the Dolomites are a true highlight of northeast Italy.

Are the Dolomites Worth Visiting?

As any UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Dolomites are without a doubt worthy of a visit. In fact, I’d say they’re worth multiple visits given the size of the mountain range. This post will go into the different areas of the Dolomites but unless you have a minimum of one week to explore, you’ll likely leave without seeing everything. The Dolomites are easily one of those places that you can visit time and time again and still enjoy it as if it were the first time. This is fantastic news for those of you looking to enjoy more than one (maybe all?!) of the best places to stay in the Dolomites.

If you are even slightly interested in seeing dreamy mountain scenery and mesmerising views, the Dolomites are for you. If you are an outdoor enthusiast and have longed to experience Via Ferrata hikes or the peak of Tre Cime, the Dolomites are for you.

Things to Know Before You Stay in the Dolomites

Multiple Languages

This tends to cause the most confusion for people visiting the Dolomites for the first time. Particularly when trying to find a town or area because each place will have at least two names! Since the Dolomites are split into sections, it’s important to understand the different regions and therefore different languages you’ll come across.

The northern part (or Südtirol) was part of the Austro-Hungarian empire which means you’ll hear and see German as the dominant language. Given you are in Italy, Italian is the national language and is also spoken but more notably in the eastern part of the Dolomites such as Cortina d’Ampezzo. The third language is Ladin, an ancient and native language of valley occupants.

When visiting any place, we recommend getting into the habit of always learning a couple of phrases in the appropriate language. We cannot stress how far this small gesture goes with locals. In the case of the Dolomites, you’ll have to learn two or three but trust us, it’ll be appreciated during your visit.

Anticipate Accommodation Costs

The Dolomites are not a travel secret. Visitors have flooded to the spectacular mountain range for decades and for many European families has even turned into a tradition. This means you will not find hidden gem pricing on accommodations. Set expectations for how much you’ll pay for hotels, apartments or even camping. Outside of winter, the average cost of a hotel can range between $100 – $150/night for a mid-range option. Feeling luxurious? The Dolomites is a popular destination for splurges such as the breathtaking Forestis Dolomites.

**Choosing Where to Stay**

By this point, you’ll understand the Dolomites are not a small place. This means the many many things to see and do are spread out throughout the mountain rage. Unless you have unlimited time, you’ll need to narrow down your list of what you plan on doing and seeing. For example, if you set out to visit the Dolomites for Via Ferrata hikes but wouldn’t mind seeing Lago di Braies, stay in closer proximity to the hiking trails. If you know exactly what you’re looking to do, it’s recommended to spend as much time near these activities or places to see. Travel time among attractions in the Dolomites can sneak up on you! The last hing you want is to be stuck in traffic on holiday behind a sea of campervans.

Do you still need to book a rental car for your Dolomites trip? You’ll find the best deals on affordable vehicles with Discover Cars.

Map of Best Places to Stay in the Dolomites

How to Get to the Dolomites

Driving

If you’ve already been driving throughout Italy or Europe, you’ll know the highway system is very easy to navigate. One thing that’s fantastic about the Dolomites as a destination is their proximity to the motorways. The Dolomites are generally located and sandwiched between two major motorways, the A22 and SS51. This allows for options to get to the Dolomites by car depending on where you are coming from. Personally, we like the A22 and once you pass Bolzano, you can begin diverting towards the mountain range based on where your specific destination is.

If your plan includes renting a car, it’s recommended you pick it up at the airport which you are flying into and follow the directions listed above. This is going to be the least stressful way of getting to your destination in the Dolomites since you’ll have full control. If you’re mindful of a budget, look into renting a car in Bolzano or other nearby major city once you get to the Dolomites by public transportation. Airport car rentals will always cost a premium due to the convenience.

Flying

International: The flexible location of the Dolomites means a few international airports are at your disposal. Due to the high traffic of flights heading to Venice, Venice Marco Polo airport is the most cost effective option. Other international airports worth considering include Verona, Milan, Innsbruck and even Munich.

Domestic: Bolzano does have a domestic airport but don’t get too excited. The logistics of flying in and out of BZO aren’t as simple as you’d hope unless you plan your dates accurately. The domestic airport caters to flights from/to other Italian cities but only on certain dates which means you’ll have to follow the schedules of the flight routes. You can see possible routes into BZO here.

Public Transportation

Although arriving in the Dolomites by train sounds idyllic, there is no direct train from Venice to a town precisely in the Dolomites. From the Venice airport, you will however be able to catch a train to Belluno, which gets you into the Dolomites region. From Belluno, it’s possible to hop on a bus. If you’re like me, you may be thinking “Oh no, bus travel” with an *eye roll*. But remember, the Dolomites are a popular destination which means bus travel is frequent, efficient and easy to navigate. Skim over your options here!

If public transportation is not a feasible choice for you, it’s highly recommended to go the rental car route. Find the best deals with Discover Cars and get on with your trip!

Quick List of Areas to Stay in the Dolomites

Location	Best For
Val Gardena	Families
Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Alm)	Panoramic Views
Cortina d’Ampezzo	First Timers
Val di Funes	Scenic Drives
Val di Fassa	All Season Outdoor Activities
Alta Badia	Experienced Skiers
Chiusa	Budget Travelers

Best Places to Stay in the Dolomites

Val Gardena

This is the best overall area to stay in the Dolomites for a few reasons. First, it’s suitable for any type of traveler whether you’re visiting as a family or even solo. You’ll find children friendly activities, a variety of ski slopes, easy and difficult hikes and cable cars for non hikers. A handful of major Dolomites sites are within a 30-45 minute drive and there’s something to enjoy any time of the year. It is well rounded and makes for a fantastic home base during your trip to the Dolomites.

Towns to Stay In: Santa Cristina Valgardena, Ortisei and La Selva

Nearby Attractions:

Piz Boè
Cascate del Pisciadù
Seceda
Chiesa di San Giacomo
Vallunga

Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Alm)

Seiser Alm is the most dreamy area in the the mountain range and a front runner for one of the best places to stay in the Dolomites. Being situated right in the middle of the picture perfect meadow is ideal for both visitors looking to relax or hit the slopes. If you choose to stay in the plateau area of Compatsch, it’s rather exclusive as the road is closed off during the better part of the day. This means the area doesn’t get flooded with cars which cannot be said about other beautiful areas in the Dolomites.

Towns to Stay In: Siusi and Compatsch

Nearby Attractions:

Seiser Alm Bahn
Golfclub St. Vigil Seis
Engelrast Scenic Viewpoint
Belvedere dell’Alpe di Siusi
Monte Piz Alpe di Siusi Hiking Area

Cortina d’Ampezzo

Cortina D’Ampezzo is most frequently featured as one of the best places to stay in the Dolomites but we think there is more to be said about the favoured town. It’s often not mentioned but Cortina D’Ampezzo is a little out of the way in comparison to other popular areas in the Dolomites. It is however definitely the place to stay in the eastern part of the Dolomites in terms of location. Accommodation found in Cortina tends to be less rated than any other area in the Dolomites which means you’ll be able to find some deals.

For first timers or travelers visiting the Dolomites without a car, it’s a very suitable option due to its proximity to Venice, the closest international airport. This makes things a little easier if you plan on renting a car or even taking public transportation. Additionally, Cortina D’Ampezzo has the biggest “city feel” out of all the towns. Although lacking the charm of other smaller villages, you’ll find many grocery stores, boutique shops, restaurants and even amusement parks.

Nearby Attractions:

Olympic Ice Stadium
Cinque Torri
Cascate di Fanes
Monte Cristallo
Rifugio Faloria

Val di Funes

Many luxury hotels have chosen to set up shop in Val di Funes and they’re primarily best suited for romantic getaways. In comparison to other area in the Dolomites, it lacks the steep mountains for hardcore sport enthusiasts as what you should focus on while staying in Val di Funes is winding down. Instead, the area is rich in beautiful views and palatable hikes doable for anyone. Personally, it’s our favorite area to drive through in the Dolomites if you’re on a road trip.

Towns to Stay In: San Pietro and St. Magdalena

Nearby Attractions:

Church of St. John
Panorama von Sankt Magdalena
St. Leonharder Kreuz
Plose Mountain
Furcela de Pütia Hiking Area
Peitlerkofel Mountain Peak

Val di Fassa

To start, choosing a place to stay in Val di Fassa isn’t a grueling task as the hotel offers are abundant. This also means you’re bound to find the exact type of accommodation you’re looking for whether it be for solo travel, kids or a boutique stay. In terms of things to do, the area is home to every outdoor sport you can think of, even indoor activities such as squash! Mountain biking, horseback riding and adventure parks are just some to name a few. Hotel offers are abundant.

Towns to Stay In: Campitello di Fassa, Canazei and Carezza

Nearby Attractions:

Lago di Carezza
Val San Nicolò Hiking Area
Colac Mountain Peak
Val Duron Hiking Area
Sentiero Incantato Wildlife Park

Alta Badia

Alta Badia packs a punch with its high altitude slopes perfect for experienced skiers, hikers and cyclists. On the other end of the spectrum, you’ll also find some of the finest wellness areas and gourmet dining. If you stay in the surrounding villages around the towns listed below, you’ll be immersed in peace and quiet. Outside of the bigger towns, Alta Badia tends to be less visited by tourists which can be refreshing. Additionally, another benefit of its quiet nature is that lower priced hotels aren’t hard to find. For a particular type of traveler, Alta Badia tops the list of best places to stay in the Dolomites.

Towns to Stay In: Badia, Corvara, and La Villa

Nearby Attractions:

Sass de Stria
Golf Club Alta Badia
Parco Naturale Puez Odle
Parco Cervi Sompunt Wildlife Park
Sas dla Crusc
Cinque Torri

Chiusa

Whether you’re looking to stay close to the motorway or not interested in paying a tourist premium, consider staying in Chiusa or similar. Choosing a place to stay just outside of the Dolomites is the perfect budget decision. Particularly if you have a car, getting to a handful of major sites in the Dolomites from Chiusa is more than doable. The town itself is very charming and includes a narrow cobbled road lined with shops and cafes. It is so well preserved because driving through the town isn’t even allowed.

Nearby Attractions:

Burg Branzoll
Trostburg Castle
Passua and Oritisei
Val di Funes and Monte di Funes

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