
Lago di Braies Chapel
A fairytale-like alpine lake in the Dolomites, famous for its emerald waters, iconic chapel, and surrounding dramatic peaks.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Serene atmosphere, fewer crowds

Lago di Braies Chapel
Best Time
Serene atmosphere, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A fairytale-like alpine lake in the Dolomites, famous for its emerald waters, iconic chapel, and surrounding dramatic peaks.
"The view is breathtaking and not many people when I visited (early September) make sure arrive bit early so you don’t need to pay parking."

🎯 Arrive Before 10 AM
Beat the crowds and see the boats tied up for a more magical experience.
🚗 Secure Parking Early
Arrive early to guarantee a parking spot and potentially avoid fees.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Iconic Chapel
Lakeshore
A charming, small chapel nestled by the emerald waters, offering a fairytale-like scene.

Emerald Waters
Lago di Braies
The stunning turquoise and emerald hues of the lake, reflecting the surrounding dramatic peaks.

Wooden Rowboats
Lakeshore rental
Glide across the serene lake in a traditional wooden rowboat for an unforgettable experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Arrive Early!
Parking and Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Before 10 AM
Beat the crowds and see the boats tied up for a more magical experience.
🚗 Secure Parking Early
Arrive early to guarantee a parking spot and potentially avoid fees.
🛶 Book Boat Rides
Rent a private wooden boat for a unique perspective; book in advance!
🥾 Easy Lakeside Hike
The path around the lake is suitable for all ages, offering beautiful views.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Before 10 AM
Beat the crowds and see the boats tied up for a more magical experience.
🚗 Secure Parking Early
Arrive early to guarantee a parking spot and potentially avoid fees.
🛶 Book Boat Rides
Rent a private wooden boat for a unique perspective; book in advance!
🥾 Easy Lakeside Hike
The path around the lake is suitable for all ages, offering beautiful views.
📸 Capture the Magic
The best light for photos is from morning until about 2 hours before sunset.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking views and the magical atmosphere of Lago di Braies, especially the picturesque chapel. Many highlight the stunning emerald waters and the opportunity for serene boat rides. Some note that arriving early is essential to avoid crowds and secure parking.
"The view is breathtaking and not many people when I visited (early September) make sure arrive bit early so you don’t need to pay parking"
Elenore
"Beautiful small church"
Tuan Pham
"This Chapel, together with the hotel and the boat renting wooden house, is one the few building you will find at the lake, and integrates very well with the wildlife landscape."
Carlo Scocco
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lago di Braies is located in the South Tyrol region of Italy. The most common way to reach it is by car, with parking available near the lake. Public transport options are limited, but buses do run to the area during certain times of the year.
Yes, there is parking available, but it can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Arriving early is highly recommended to secure a spot and potentially avoid parking fees.
Yes, Lago di Braies is beautiful in winter, often frozen and covered in snow, offering a different kind of magical experience. The chapel remains a picturesque sight.
While there isn't a direct public transport route, you can take a train from Venice to Bolzano and then a bus to Lago di Braies. Renting a car offers more flexibility for exploring the Dolomites.
During peak summer months, access to the lake road might be restricted to private vehicles during certain hours. It's advisable to check local regulations before your visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no specific ticket required to visit the chapel or walk around the lake. However, parking fees may apply, and boat rentals have their own costs.
Lago di Braies is generally accessible year-round. The surrounding natural beauty is always on display, though amenities like boat rentals and the bistro have specific operating hours.
Renting a private wooden boat typically costs around €55 and is highly recommended for the experience. It's wise to book this in advance.
The chapel itself is a place of worship and generally does not have an entrance fee for visitors to admire from the outside or step inside respectfully.
Parking fees are usually in effect, especially during the busy season. Arriving early can sometimes help secure a spot before fees are strictly enforced or to get a better rate.
📸 📸 Photography
The best time for photography is from morning until about two hours before sunset, when the water glows its brightest turquoise. Sunrise also offers a magical, less crowded experience.
The small chapel by the shore, the iconic wooden rowboats on the emerald water, and the reflections of the surrounding peaks are prime photography subjects.
Drone usage is often restricted in natural parks and protected areas to preserve the tranquility and wildlife. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain scenery and lake. A polarizing filter can enhance the colors of the water and sky.
Photographing the boats when they are still tied up in the early morning offers a unique, serene composition. Later in the day, seeing them out on the water provides a different dynamic.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy a leisurely walk around the lake, rent a rowboat, take photos, and visit the charming chapel. In summer, there's a small bistro and a petting zoo for kids.
The path around the lake is generally wide and flat, making it an easy hike suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
Swimming is generally discouraged and often prohibited to preserve the lake's pristine condition and for safety reasons.
Dogs are typically allowed on leash around Lago di Braies, allowing them to enjoy the beautiful scenery with their owners.
There's a small bistro near the chapel for refreshments, and during summer, a petting zoo and a Kugelbahn (ball track) for children.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enchanting Chapel of Lago di Braies
Many visitors find the chapel to be a serene and beautiful addition to the lake's natural splendor. Its proximity to the shore and the surrounding mountains creates a postcard-perfect setting. Whether you're admiring it from the water or walking along the shore, the chapel is an integral part of the Lago di Braies experience.
Experiencing the Lake: Boats and Walks
For those who prefer to stay on land, the easy walking path that encircles the lake is a delight. This trail is suitable for all ages and fitness levels, allowing everyone to soak in the breathtaking views. The walk provides continuous vistas of the emerald waters, the imposing Croda del Becco peak, and the charming chapel.
During the summer months, families can also enjoy a small bistro for refreshments and a petting zoo, adding to the family-friendly atmosphere.
Best Times and Seasons to Visit
While summer offers lush greenery and vibrant waters, autumn transforms the landscape into a spectacle of color, making it a magical time to visit with crisp air and fewer tourists. Winter presents a completely different, yet equally enchanting, vista with the lake often frozen and covered in snow, creating a serene winter wonderland. The best light for photography is generally from morning until about two hours before sunset, when the water's turquoise hues are at their most brilliant.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit