Best time to visit the Dolomites: what to expect each season

Choosing the best time to visit the Dolomites can be tricky, especially if it’s your first trip. 

Having visited countless times, from learning to ski here as a kid to exploring every season over the years, I’ve learned what works and what doesn’t. Let me share my tips to help you avoid common mistakes.

For hiking and road trips, summer and early autumn are perfect. Famous spots like Seceda, Tre Cime di Lavaredo, and Lago di Braies are at their best during this time. September and October are my favorite months with fewer crowds, slightly cooler weather, and stunning autumn colors. 

Winter is all about skiing, snowy landscapes, and festive charm. The weather can be cold (I skied in Alta Badia a couple of years ago when it was -13°C), but the snow is so magical here!

Spring, however, is unpredictable. For most of the season, it’s too late for skiing and too early for hiking, with many mountain huts still closed. It’s not the best choice for a first trip in my opinion. 

Let’s explore what each season offers so you can plan your perfect Dolomites adventure!

Summer (late June – late September) 

Why visit in summer

Summer in the Dolomites is the absolute dream!

• Outdoor sports
  The trails are in their prime, making it the best time for hiking, cycling, or just about any outdoor activity. There are so many day hikes to choose from, but my favorites are definitely Tre Cime di Lavaredo and Seceda.
  
  Not into hiking? No problem!
  
  All chairlifts, gondolas and cable cars are open, so you can easily reach stunning viewpoints like Seceda and Alpe di Siusi without breaking a sweat.
• Mountain huts
  These cozy huts are open, and let me tell you, the alpine dishes are out of this world. You might end up eating so much that the hike back down feels impossible (been there, done that! No regrets).
• Road trips 
  With great weather and longer daylight hours, summer is perfect for the Dolomites with a road trip. 
  You’ll have plenty of time to soak up the views and make lots of stops for photos without worrying about driving at night.
• Warm (but not scorching hot) weather
  While most of Italy is super hot in July and August, the Dolomites offer the perfect escape from the heat. September is even better, with cooler temps and less chance of rain.

What to keep in mind

Summer is peak season in the Dolomites and this means you will have to deal with: 

• Higher prices
  The two central weeks of August are the peak of Italy’s holiday season, so everything from accommodations to activities will be pricier and sell out quickly.
   
  If you’re planning to visit during this time, book as early as possible to avoid stress later!
• Crowds
  The famous spots like Tre Cime di Lavaredo, Seceda, and Alpe di Siusi can get very busy, especially in August. 
  
  But here’s a secret: there are so many quieter trails just a short walk from the main viewpoints. 
  
  I usually use Komoot to find them, and trust me, even moving a little away from where the cable car drops you off makes a huge difference. Not everyone is up for hiking!
  
  Some trails, like Lago di Sorapis or Tre Cime di Lavaredo, will definitely be crowded but in my opinion, they are still 100% worth visiting. Arriving early in the morning is your best bet to experience the magic before the crowds arrive.
  
  For example, we hiked up to Seceda from the Col Raiser cable car during high season in summer and there was hardly anyone around us.
  
  Here’s a picture to prove it, see? Just me, Balù and the beautiful view.

Autumn (late September – late December) 

Why visit in autumn

• Cheaper and quieter than summer or winter
  Autumn is the perfect time to soak in the Dolomites without the hustle and bustle of summer or winter. It’s more affordable, with fewer tourists around, which makes it feel like you’ve got the mountains all to yourself.
• Stunning fall foliage
  The landscapes come alive with reds, yellows, and oranges, making every trail and viewpoint even more magical.
  
  If you’re into photography, this is your moment!
  
  One of my favorite spots is Lake Braies. The colorful trees reflecting on the crystal-clear water are just breathtaking. It’s also the perfect time to rent one of those adorable wooden boats and paddle around the lake without the summer crowds! I loved it.
• Hiking (for a part of the season)
  In early autumn, most hiking trails are still open. It’s a fantastic time to enjoy the crisp mountain air and peaceful trails before winter settles in.
  
  Mountain huts usually start closing around mid-October, but it really depends on the year and the weather. Some seasons, the hiking window stretches a little longer
  
  A couple of years ago, we hiked Tre Cime di Lavaredo in early November. There was a little snow here and there, but the trails were fine, even though the main mountain huts had already closed.
  
  It’s always a good idea to check trail conditions before you go, but with a bit of planning, autumn hikes can be great!

What to keep in mind

• Unpredictable weather
  September might still feel like summer, but by October, snow can start to show up, especially at higher altitudes. It really depends on the year, so be prepared to adjust your plans if needed.
  
  Some trails at higher altitudes might already be snow-covered or off-limits by November or December. Always check the trail conditions before setting off to stay safe and avoid surprises.
• Shorter days
  With fewer daylight hours, you’ll want to plan your hikes and activities a bit more carefully. Starting early in the morning is the best way to make the most of the light.
• Mountain huts closing
  By mid-October, many mountain huts begin to close for the season.
  
  This means fewer places to grab a warm meal or stay overnight, so it’s good to check ahead, especially if you’re planning longer hikes.
  
  It won’t be a problem if you just want to focus on easier to reach places like Lago di Braies or Alpe di Siusi.
• Ski resorts are still closed
  If you’re planning to ski, keep in mind that most slopes won’t be open until later in December. Double-check opening dates if skiing is on your agenda or, better yet, consider visiting in winter if skiing is a priority.

Winter (late December – late March) 

Why visit in winter

• Winter sports
  The Dolomites in winter are a dream come true for anyone who loves skiing, cross-country skiing, snowboarding, or snowshoeing!
  
  No wonder Cortina will host (together with Milan) the 2026 winter Olympics. 
  
  Here you’ll find some of the best slopes in the world, but ski resorts in the Dolomites are actually fantastic for all skill levels. 
  
  You’ll love it, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned expert.
  
  Beginners will enjoy the wide, easy, panoramic slopes, while intermediates and pros could complete the legendary Sellaronda ski circuit (in my opinion one of the absolute best activities in winter in the Dolomites!). 
  
  No worries if you don’t ski though. Snow shoeing, sledding and ice skating are also popular activities so there’s really something for everyone. 
• Romantic snowy landscapes
  During winter, snow covers the mountains and villages, creating a magical and romantic setting. 
  It’s perfect for those looking for a cozy getaway or anyone who appreciates the beauty of winter landscapes.
• Christmas markets
  The festive season brings the super famous Christmas markets to the Dolomites, transforming the villages into glowing, cheerful hubs. 
  
  You’ll find handmade gifts, seasonal treats like strudel, and plenty of mulled wine to warm you up. These markets are a must-visit for anyone traveling in December and add a magical touch to your trip.

What to keep in mind

• It’s not the best time for hiking and road trips
  Winter is not ideal for hiking as most trails are covered in snow, making them inaccessible. 
  
  Road trips can also be challenging due to icy conditions. Driving is absolutely possible during winter (we’ve done it countless times) but road trips will probably be more challenging than in summer, unless you’re fine with driving after sunset and navigating snowy roads.
• Prepare for the cold
  Temperatures can be really low and snow is a guarantee throughout the season
  
  A few years ago, we skied the Sellaronda loop, and although the experience was unforgettable, the temperature dropped to -13° Celsius (8.6°F). Here you can see the average temperatures month by month in Selva di Val Gardena.
  
  Having the right clothing is key to staying warm and comfortable during outdoor activities, even if you don’t want to ski.
• Higher costs
  Just like summer, winter is one of the busiest and most expensive seasons in the Dolomites, particularly around the holidays. 
  
  Hotels and activities always fill up quickly, so booking early is essential to secure the best options and save some money!

Spring (late March – late June) 

Why visit in spring

• Affordable and crowd-free
  Spring in the Dolomites is one of the quietest times of the year. 
  
  If you’re looking for a peaceful getaway without the summer crowds or high prices, this is a good season to visit. 
  
  Autumn is still my go to as far as shoulder seasons go because the weather tends to be nicer, though. 
• Late season skiing
  Early spring can still be great for skiing, especially in March and sometimes even into April. 
  
  I’ve skied well into April on several occasions, but it all depends on the year’s weather. If temperatures are warm, the snow at the top of the slopes is usually fine, but it can get pretty slushy toward the bottom.
  
  The good news is that skipasses are much cheaper at the end of the season
  
  So, skiing is possible but not guaranteed, you need to be flexible with your plans. 

What to keep in mind

• It’s too soon for hiking and often too late for skiing
  Spring is a transitional season, which means you really need to be flexible with your plans. 
  
  Most hiking trails, chairlifts and mountain huts remain closed until mid or late June, so for the majority of spring it’s too soon for hiking. 
  
  Basically, don’t imagine spring in the Dolomites as you would imagine spring in the rest of Italy. In the alps, spring is pretty much winter most of the time!
  
  That said, the temperature is definitely warmer than winter, so for most of the season it’s usually too late for skiing. 
• Unpredictable weather
  The weather in spring can be unpredictable, ranging from sunny and mild to cold and snowy.
  
  Early June is often mistaken for summer, but snow can linger on higher-altitude trails, and the weather can be hit or miss. 

Dolomites FAQs

So, when is the best time to visit the Dolomites?

The answer really depends on what you want to do.

If hiking is your priority, the best time to visit is summer and early autumn, from early July to mid-October. The trails are open, the weather is usually great, and the scenery is unbeatable. 

For skiing and snow sports, winter is the ideal season, from late December to the end of March, when the slopes are in perfect condition and the snowy landscapes are simply magical.

The rest of the year is still stunning, but the weather can be unpredictable. 

In my opinion, it’s not worth risking your trip if you’re hoping for outdoor activities. 

If you have the flexibility to choose, I’d recommend planning your first holiday in either summer or winter to truly experience the Dolomites at their best.

Now that you probably know the best time for your tastes and preferences, it’s time to start thinking about the best things to do. 

The highlight of any trip to the Dolomites is enjoying its incredible nature, whether that’s hiking in summer or skiing in winter. You can also spend hours taking photos of the jaw-dropping landscapes or relaxing in a spa surrounded by mountains.

If you’re looking for inspiration, I’ve written a detailed article about the best things to do on your first holiday in the Dolomites, so you won’t miss anything. 

And once you’ve figured out your activities and how to reach the Dolomites, the other important part of planning a Dolomites trip is deciding where to stay.  I’ve got you covered there too, with a guide to the best areas. To keep it short and sweet, my favorite places are Val Gardena, Cortina, and Alta Badia.

Enjoy your trip to the Dolomites, it’s going to be unforgettable!