Welcome to the crown jewel of the Nothern Italian Alps, the charming town of Cortina d’Ampezzo. Nestled in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Dolomites, Cortina is one of the chicest ski towns in Europe.
This Tyrolean town provides access to the best hiking and skiing in the region, all while allowing you to enjoy luxury chalets, upscale boutiques, and restaurants serving elevated, local cuisine.
Where Is Cortina?
Set in Northern Italy’s Ampezzo Valley, Cortina d’Ampezzo is a mountain town home to year-round outdoor adventures from skiing to hiking. If you’re planning a Dolomites road trip, this town should be your base for at least part of your stay.
After spending a few weeks in the area, I have a few ideas on what to do near Cortina. My biggest takeaway was where you base yourself matters. Staying in a central location (like Cortina) cuts down on drive time and allows you to beat the crowds to get after adventure and soak in the landscapes.
What Is There To Do In Cortina
In my book, Cortina d’Ampezzo is a must-visit destination. This delightful town has an unbeatable location that’s perfect for exploration and relaxation. Thanks to its charm and splendor, Cortina is often referred to as the “Pearl of the Dolomites.”
Numerous activities and day trips are also easily accessible from the town. For example, you can tackle the storied hiking trails of Tre Cime di Lavaredo to take in the breathtaking vistas. Nearby lakes like Lago di Braies provide idyllic getaways, while the Socrepes and Cinque Torri areas are home to superb restaurants.
History enthusiasts will want to plan a visit to the Cinque Torri Open Air Museum to learn of World War I battles that raged through the Dolomites. But visit now before the 2026 Winter Olympics are held there, as the appeal of this destination will only grow!
Six Things To Do Near Cortina D’Ampezzo
Stroll the town of Cortina d’Ampezzo
The chic town of Cortina d’Ampezzo has a bustling, pedestrian-friendly center that is a place to see and be seen. Walking the cobblestone streets, you’ll encounter everything from cafes to high-end luxury retailers. And, if you’re there in the winter, the après-ski scene is legendary.
Visit The Messner Mountain Museum
Only open in the summer, head to the Messner Mountain Museum for all things mountaineering. Created in 2006 by Italian mountaineer and legendary climber Reinhold Messner, here you’ll learn the role the area played in advancing extreme sports. Its location on Monte Rite also has some of the most incredible 360-degree views.
Go Hiking In Tre Cime di Lavaredo
There are incredible places to hike in the Dolomites, but the Tre Cime di Lavaredo mountain range may be the best. It’s a protected area in the Dolomites, and being based in Cortina allows for easy access. There is a rifugio (mountain hut) at the base with all the amenities like restaurants and bathrooms, so hikers often come to eat a meal before or after a hike.
Visit Lago di Misurina
This peaceful resort lake with incredible scenery is around a 20-minute drive from the heart of Cortina. I recommend packing a lunch and enjoying one of the many picnic tables surrounding the lake. You can also stroll the perimeter of the entire lake itself, a leisurely walk with beautiful views of Tre Cime mountains.
Hike To Sorapis Lake
For one of the most challenging hikes near Cortina with rewarding views, hit the trail to Sorapis Lake (Lago di Sorapis). The hike takes 4 to 5 hours, but you’ll be rewarded with views of the incredible aquamarine lake.
You will need good hiking shoes and all food/water supplies, as it is quite a strenuous hike. Along the way, be prepared to use ladders at certain parts. It is accessible between June and September. While I visited, there was fog, but it was still beautiful.
Hit the slopes
With around 80 miles of slopes accessible from town, Cortina d’Ampezzo is a beautiful spot to get in some laps. The resort is part of the Dolomiti Superski Network, so one pass gives you access to a network of 16 ski resorts. The main ski slopes within a short drive of Cortina are in Lagazuoi-5 Torri, Faloria-Cristallo, and Tofana. Each mountain has ski runs with a range of difficulty from beginner to expert.
Frequently Asked Questions
Cortina D'Ampezzo is renowned as a ski resort town in the Italian province of Belluno in the Veneto region. It gained fame for hosting the 1956 Winter Olympics and is set to host again in 2026. Surrounded by the Tofane, Sorapiss, Cristallo, and Croda da Lago mountains, it's a prime location for exploring the Italian Dolomites during summer, early fall, or winter.
Some of the top attractions near Cortina include visiting Lago Federa, Lago di Sorapis, Cinque Torri, Rifugio Lagazuoi, Rifugio Nuvolau, and Mondeval Plateau. If you are there in the summer, you can go to the Messner Museum. If you are there in the winter, be sure to ski and enjoy the apres ski culture.
The closest airport to Cortina D'Ampezzo is the Marco Polo International Airport in Venice, which is approximately 2 hours away. It's recommended to rent a car from the airport for direct travel to Cortina D'Ampezzo. Alternatively, there's a direct coach service from the Venice Airport to Cortina D'Ampezzo.
2 Day Trips From Cortina
Take a day trip to Lago di Braies (Pragser Wildsee)
Probably the most photographed place in the Dolomites, Lago di Braies is an easy day trip. Head there early to beat the crowds and enjoy the turquoise waters of the lake set in front of the mountains. In the summer months, you can also rent wooden rowboats to enjoy the views. In the peak of summer, arrive when it opens so you can snag a boat before they sell out.
Take a day trip to Val Gardena
Another scenic area to explore in South Tyrol is the Val Gardena. There are several hiking trails set in the lush meadows here for various levels of hiking. It’s best reached by car and adds a wonderful stop to your Dolomites itinerary.
Where To Eat Near Cortina d’Ampezzo
Baita Fraina
This cozy, local restaurant is set inside the wood-paneled B&B of Baita Fraina. Come summer, bask in the sun on their terrace, which offers unparalleled views of the Dolomites. The menu highlights diverse dishes of housemade pasta, like spaghettini with braised onions.
Baita Fraina, Località Fraina, 1, 32043 Cortina d’Ampezzo BL, Italy
SanBrite
To me, SanBrite is the pinnacle of dining experiences in the Dolomites, and to eat at SanBrite is to taste the Dolomites.
I stumbled upon this restaurant during a sleepy, early drive to Tre Cime. I bookmarked it, and we walked in for lunch on a quiet Thursday during the off-season. What unfolded was a life-changing experience that brought all that the Dolomites are known for into one meal. House-made pasta, butter made from the cows of their agriturismo, and foraged ingredients are all based on regenerative practices.
It’s now a Michelin-starred restaurant that you must book in advance. And if I may make one suggestion, don’t book one meal, but two — both lunch and dinner are superb.
SanBrite, Località Alverà, 32043 Cortina d’Ampezzo BL, Italy
El Brite de Larieto
Head to the agriturismo El Brite de Lareito for a more casual option. It’s also owned by the family behind SanBrite. The food is good, homey, and rich—the exact things you want to eat after a day of hiking.
El Brite de Larieto località Larieto, 32043 Cortina d’Ampezzo BL, Italy
Ristorante Pizzeria 5 Torri
If you’re looking for pizza, go no further. I made a handful of visits here when I was in Cortina. It’s a homey, family-style restaurant that serves seriously good Italian pizza.
Ristorante Pizzeria 5 Torri, Largo delle Poste, 13, 32043 Cortina d’Ampezzo BL, Italy
Rifugio Scoiattoli
You will encounter a handful of rifugi (mountain cabins) in the Dolomites. Some, like Rifguio Scoiattoli, serve excellent traditional Dolomites food. You can hike in as the locals do or access it other ways. Excellent local Italian wines are generously poured, complementing regional cuisine in a moonlit setting.
Rifugio Scoiattoli, Loc. 5 Torri, 32043 Cortina d’Ampezzo BL, Italy
St. Hubertus Restaurant
Make time to venture to San Cassiano, about a 40-minute drive from Cortina. Here, you’ll find the St. Hubertus Restaurant, which has garnered 3 Michelin stars and is one of the World’s 50 Best Restaurants. Located within the luxe Rosa Alpina resort (see below), a meal here is one for the books. Their impeccable service and elevated mountain cuisine make it a favorite amongst our Salt & Wind travel clients.
St. Hubertus Restaurant, Strada Micurà de Rü, 20, 39036 San Cassiano BZ, Italy
Where to Stay Near Cortina d’Ampezzo
Keep in mind that Cortina is a town more than a village, so there are many lodging options, from solid spots right in town like Hotel de La Poste to mountain inns and luxury resorts like the Rosapetra. We’re providing a few options, but if you need more travel planning help, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Cristallo, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa
Regarding the best address in town, the Cristallo is the prime choice for luxury accommodations. Known for its lavish rooms and suites with incredible mountain views, this would be the spot to hang your hat for the week. It’s a celebrity fan favorite for its excellent spa and robust food and beverage program onsite. Note: The Cristallo is currently renovating and will reopen as a Mandarin Oriental.
Cristallo, Via Rinaldo Menardi, 42, 32043 Cortina d’Ampezzo BL, Italy
Hotel de LEN
Described as a gingerbread house from the outside, this quaint chalet is much more inside. It’s modern yet very ski-chic. It’s a sister property to the famous Borgo Egnazia in Puglia, an icon for Italian resorts. With only 22 total rooms, this is a chic boutique stay in the heart of the Dolomites.
Hotel de LEN, Via Cesare Battisti, 66, 32043 Cortina d’Ampezzo BL, Italy
Rosa Alpina
A bit further afield, but still within driving distance of Cortina, is the mountain resort of Rosa Alpina. Set in Alda Badia, this is one of the best hotels in the Dolomites for luxury, service, and amenities. It’s home to the 3-Michelin-starred St. Hubertus Restaurant, a must-experience when staying. Note: The Rosa Alpina is renovating and scheduled to reopen for the 2024/2025 season.
Rosa Alpina, Strada Micurà de Rü, 20, 39036 San Cassiano BZ, Italy
Know Before Visiting Cortina d’Ampezzo
Seasonality
One element to consider when visiting Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy, is the seasonality. In peak winter, it is prime for skiing and other snow adventures. Come summer, the area is a mecca for climbers and outdoor lovers who flock there for hiking and world-class mountaineering.
Most lodges and restaurants typically shut down during the late fall and late spring shoulder seasons. Consider this before booking your trip. I found the best months to visit are early September to early October, then early summer in June.
How Long To Visit
I highly recommend a minimum of four nights in Cortina d’Ampezzo, so you have plenty of time to visit this portion of the Northern Italian Alps. This will give you ample time to explore the town itself, take a few day trips, and embark on hiking or skiing, depending on the time of year.
How do I access Cortina d’Ampezzo?
It’s not far from the charming city of Bolzano, so if you’re planning a European trip, you could head to Cortina d’Ampezzo from there, Venice, or even Milan.
Closest Airports
I recommend flying into a nearby airport and then driving.
Venice
The closest and most practical airport is Venice Marco Polo Airport (Italy), which is a 2—to 3-hour drive.
Verona
If you’re coming from the south, you may find that flying into Verona Airport, Italy, is your next best choice for accessing the Dolomites.
Innsbruck
From the north, Innsbruck, Austria, has an airport that can make for a beautiful road trip.
By Car
You will need a car to explore everything in this guide. If you are driving around Italy or Austria, keep your rental car and head to the region. If you are arriving from another country, fly into the most convenient airports listed above and plan to get your rental car there.
Bolzano Italy Travel Guide
While Cortina d’Ampezzo is renowned for its stunning Dolomite landscapes and luxury resorts, Bolzano offers a different yet equally captivating experience just a scenic drive away. Known as the gateway to the Italian Alps, Bolzano blends Italian and Austrian influences, offering rich cultural experiences, unique architecture, and a thriving food and wine scene.
Explore medieval castles, sipping local wines from nearby vineyards, or wandering through vibrant markets. For those intrigued by this Alpine gem, our comprehensive guide to Bolzano will help you uncover all the must-visit spots, including where to eat, drink, and stay.
Have Us Plan Your Italy Trip
Did you know we’re also a boutique travel agency that specializes in Italy travel planning? If you’re looking to plan one of the best trips to Italy, our Italy trip planner services are here to help you plan your perfect itinerary.
Photo Credit: All photos by Jessica Wright
