Cortina d'Ampezzo
Cortina d'Ampezzo: The 'Queen of the Dolomites,' offering unparalleled skiing, hiking, and breathtaking alpine scenery.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Prime ski season
Cortina d'Ampezzo
Best Time
Prime ski season
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Cortina d'Ampezzo: The 'Queen of the Dolomites,' offering unparalleled skiing, hiking, and breathtaking alpine scenery.
"Cortina d'Ampezzo feels like living in a dream with epic scenery and expansive terrain. "
🚡 Ride the Cable Cars
Ascend for incredible views without the strenuous hike. Great for all fitness levels!
🎿 Dolomiti Superski Pass
Consider this pass for access to a vast network of interconnected ski slopes.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cinque Torri
Passo Falzarego
Iconic rock formations offering breathtaking views and historical WWI trenches. A must-see for hikers and history buffs.
Lago di Sorapis
Near Rifugio Vandelli
A stunning turquoise lake nestled amidst dramatic peaks. The hike is challenging but rewards with unparalleled natural beauty.
Cristallo Mountain
Cortina d'Ampezzo
Majestic peak offering panoramic vistas and challenging ski slopes. Accessible via cable car for stunning views without the strenuous climb.
Michelin-Starred Dining
Various Restaurants
Indulge in world-class cuisine at restaurants like SanBrite, offering unique culinary experiences with local ingredients.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Peak Seasons
Understand Dolomiti Superski
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚡 Ride the Cable Cars
Ascend for incredible views without the strenuous hike. Great for all fitness levels!
🎿 Dolomiti Superski Pass
Consider this pass for access to a vast network of interconnected ski slopes.
☕ Enjoy an Apres-Ski Drink
Warm up with a 'bombardino' after a day on the slopes. +1
📸 Capture the Scenery
The Dolomites offer postcard-perfect views at every turn. Don't forget your camera!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚡 Ride the Cable Cars
Ascend for incredible views without the strenuous hike. Great for all fitness levels!
🎿 Dolomiti Superski Pass
Consider this pass for access to a vast network of interconnected ski slopes.
☕ Enjoy an Apres-Ski Drink
Warm up with a 'bombardino' after a day on the slopes. +1
📸 Capture the Scenery
The Dolomites offer postcard-perfect views at every turn. Don't forget your camera!
🥾 Hike to Hidden Gems
Explore trails to discover stunning lakes like Lago di Sorapis.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Cortina d'Ampezzo for its breathtaking natural beauty, world-class skiing, and charming alpine atmosphere. The stunning Dolomite scenery, extensive ski slopes, and opportunities for hiking are major draws. However, some find the destination to be quite expensive, and during peak seasons, it can get crowded.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The nearest major airports are Venice Marco Polo (VCE) and Treviso (TSF). From there, you can take a bus or arrange a private transfer to Cortina d'Ampezzo. Driving is also an option, with scenic routes through the Dolomites. +1
Cortina has a local bus system that connects different parts of the town and surrounding areas. For longer distances or specific routes, taxis are available.
The Dolomiti Superski pass often includes bus services connecting different resorts. Many visitors also use ski lifts to move between connected areas.
Cortina d'Ampezzo does not have its own airport. The closest international airports are in Venice and Treviso, requiring onward travel by road.
Yes, Cortina is quite walkable, and its public transport system is efficient for getting to key areas and ski lifts.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, if you plan to ski or snowboard, a ski pass is required. The Dolomiti Superski pass is a popular option for accessing a wide range of slopes.
Ski passes can be purchased online in advance or at the ticket offices located at the base of the main ski lifts and cable cars. Booking online can sometimes offer discounts.
Access to most natural attractions like Lago di Sorapis is free, but hiking to them may require effort. Some cable cars or chairlifts to viewpoints will have associated fees.
Opening hours for ski resorts typically vary but generally run from around 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM during the ski season. It's best to check the specific resort's website for exact times.
Yes, guided tours for hiking, skiing, and cultural experiences are available. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Popular hiking trails include the path to Lago di Sorapis, the Cinque Torri loop, and trails around the Tofane massif. The difficulty varies, so choose based on your fitness level. 
Summer in Cortina offers fantastic hiking, mountain biking, via ferrata, paragliding, and enjoying the stunning alpine scenery.
Yes, Cortina has dedicated beginner areas and ski schools. The Dolomiti Superski area also offers many gentle blue runs suitable for those learning.
Cortina offers a lively apres-ski scene with many bars and refuges where you can enjoy drinks and music after skiing. Chalet Tofane is a popular spot.
Yes, the Cinque Torri area has remnants of WWI trenches and fortifications, offering a glimpse into the region's history.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Enjoy traditional Tyrolean cuisine, hearty mountain dishes, and local specialties. Don't miss trying 'canederli' (dumplings) and 'strudel'. For a gourmet experience, consider Michelin-starred restaurants like SanBrite.
Many restaurants are increasingly offering vegetarian options. Vegan choices might be more limited but can often be accommodated with advance notice, especially in higher-end establishments.
A 'bombardino' is a popular warm alcoholic drink made with Advocaat, brandy, and topped with whipped cream. It's commonly found in mountain huts and apres-ski bars.
Dining prices in Cortina can vary significantly. Casual trattorias and pizzerias offer more affordable options, while Michelin-starred restaurants and high-end establishments are considerably more expensive.
Absolutely! Cortina has numerous cafes and bakeries offering excellent Italian coffee and delicious pastries, perfect for a morning treat or afternoon break.
📸 📸 Photography
Iconic locations include Lago di Sorapis, Cinque Torri, the Tre Cime di Lavaredo (nearby), and panoramic views from mountain peaks accessible by cable car.
Golden hour (sunrise and sunset) offers the most dramatic light for landscape photography. Midday can be harsh, but good for capturing the vibrant colors of lakes and meadows.
Drone photography is popular for capturing the vastness of the Dolomites, but be sure to check local regulations regarding drone usage in national parks and protected areas.
A wide-angle lens is essential for capturing the grand landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating mountain peaks or wildlife. A sturdy tripod is recommended for low-light conditions and long exposures.
Photography tours can be arranged to take you to the best vantage points at optimal times, often with guidance on composition and settings.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
In summer, families can enjoy easier hiking trails, explore the historical sites around Cinque Torri, or take scenic cable car rides. Look for family-friendly accommodations that offer amenities like play areas or kids' clubs. The overall atmosphere of Cortina is welcoming, making it a great destination for creating lasting family memories in the heart of the Dolomites.
⛷️ Ski Enthusiasts
Consider purchasing your Cortina ski pass in advance to save time and potentially money. Familiarize yourself with Cortina ski maps to navigate the extensive network efficiently. Don't miss the vibrant apres-ski scene, a perfect way to unwind after a day on the slopes with a warm drink and lively atmosphere.
🚶 Hikers and Nature Lovers
Explore the historical trails around the Cinque Torri, where you can combine stunning vistas with a glimpse into the past.
Numerous other trails cater to all fitness levels, from gentle walks to challenging treks. The accessibility via cable cars also allows for high-altitude exploration without strenuous climbs, offering panoramic views that are simply unforgettable. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Skiing in Cortina: A Winter Wonderland
For those new to skiing, Cortina provides excellent ski schools and dedicated beginner areas. Experienced skiers will appreciate the variety and the opportunity to explore different valleys and peaks. The Cortina ski pass is your key to unlocking this vast network, and it's advisable to purchase it in advance, especially during peak season. Remember to check Cortina ski maps to plan your routes and make the most of your time on the slopes.
Beyond the skiing itself, Cortina offers a vibrant apres-ski culture. After a day of carving through powder, head to one of the many charming mountain huts or lively bars to warm up with a 'bombardino' and soak in the festive atmosphere.
Summer Adventures in the Dolomites
Hiking is paramount, with trails ranging from leisurely strolls to challenging multi-day treks. Iconic destinations like Lago di Sorapis beckon with their surreal turquoise waters, a reward for a moderately strenuous hike.
For the adventurous, via ferrata routes provide thrilling climbs with secured pathways, offering unparalleled access to the rugged mountain faces.Beyond hiking, mountain biking is a popular pursuit, with dedicated trails and bike parks. Paragliding offers a bird's-eye view of the majestic peaks, while simply enjoying a picnic amidst the breathtaking scenery is an activity in itself. Cortina in summer is about embracing the great outdoors and immersing yourself in the raw beauty of the Italian Alps.
Culinary Delights of Cortina
Indulge in traditional Tyrolean cuisine, characterized by its robust flavors and use of local ingredients. Dishes like 'canederli' (bread dumplings), polenta, and game meats are staples. For a truly exceptional gastronomic journey, consider dining at SanBrite, a restaurant celebrated for its innovative approach and one Michelin star, where you can savor unique creations like spaghetti that tastes of the forest.
+1No visit to Cortina would be complete without experiencing the vibrant apres-ski culture, which often includes delicious drinks and snacks. A 'bombardino,' a warm and sweet concoction, is a local favorite for warming up after a day on the slopes.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit