Why Cortina D’ampezzo Is The Jewel of the Italian Dolomites

What Is There To Do In Cortina

Cortina d’Ampezzo is a must-visit destination in my book. This delightful town has an unbeatable location that’s perfect for exploration and relaxation. In fact, Cortina is often referred to as the “Pearl of the Dolomites” thanks to its charm and splendor. 

There are also numerous activities and day trips 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. The 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!

6 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. As you walk 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 the advancement of 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 place. It’s a protected area in the Dolomites and being based in Cortina allowed for easy access. There is a rifugio (mountain huts) at the base with all the amenities like restaurants and bathrooms, so hikers often come to eat a meal before or after. 

Visit Lago di Misurina

Around a 20-minute drive from the heart of Cortina is this peaceful resort lake with incredible scenery. I’d recommend packing a lunch and enjoying one of the many picnic tables surrounding the lake. You can stroll the perimeter of the entire lake itself as well, a leisurely walk with beautiful views of Tre Cime mountains.

Hike To Sorapis Lake

For one of the most challenging hikes nearby to Cortina with rewarding views, hit the trail to Sorapis Lake (Lago di Sorapis). The hike is around 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 in the summer months 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 right from town, Cortina d’Ampezzo is a wonderful 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 the areas of Lagazuoi-5 Torri, Faloria-Cristallo, and Tofana. Each mountain has ski runs with a range of difficulty from beginner to expert.