7 Unmissable things to do in the Dolomites for first timers
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I’ve been visiting the Dolomites since I was a kid (I learned to ski here!). Now, I often come back with my boyfriend and our dog for hiking, skiing, and taking way too many photos of the breathtaking landscapes.
No matter when you visit, the Dolomites are all about nature and stunning views.
The absolute best thing to do is literally just to enjoy the landscape. It is amazing, and it is no surprise that it is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The Dolomites are also perfect for road trips, summer hikes like Tre Cime and Seceda, or winter sports. But you don’t have to hike or ski to enjoy it. Lake Braies and Alpe di Siusi are super easy to reach with no hiking, and relaxing at a boutique spa like QC Terme Dolomiti is always a fantastic idea.
I’ve rounded up the very best things to do in the Dolomites for first-timers, so you can skip the guesswork and make the most of your trip.
Let’s start, there is so much I want to share with you!
7 Things to do in the Dolomites you can’t miss on your first trip
1. Explore nature
The Dolomites have some of the most incredible landscapes in Italy, and the best thing to do here is explore them.
If you’re chasing those iconic views you’ve probably seen all over Instagram, start with Tre Cime di Lavaredo, Lago di Braies, Alpe di Siusi and Seceda.
Tre Cime di Lavaredo Alpe di Siusi Lago di Braies 
Seceda
If you love hiking, Tre Cime di Lavaredo and Cadini di Misurina are must-visits. Seceda is another gem, and while you can take the cable car to the top, I’d recommend hiking if you can.
In general, hiking in the Dolomites is such a great way to connect with nature, and many times you’ll find fewer crowds compared to areas that are easier to reach (I hate crowds, sorry).
The last time I visited Seceda, we hiked up from the Col Raiser cable car (that’s about 3 hours with plenty of photo stops). The trail was super quiet, and we had most of the stunning views all to ourselves. Compared to the crowded main Seceda viewpoint near the chairlift, it felt like a completely different experience.
If hiking isn’t your thing, don’t worry! You can still enjoy nature without walking too much.
Alpe di Siusi, for example, is super accessible with a quick cable car ride. Once you’re there, enjoy the views, take a walk or just unwind in one of the cozy mountain huts.
Lago di Braies is also just a flat five-minute walk from the car park and it’s one of the best places to visit in the Dolomites!
The first time I went, I was with friends who didn’t have proper hiking clothes, so just we strolled around the lake and rented a little wooden boat. I swear, it was absolutely magical and it’s proof you don’t need to hike to enjoy the Dolomites.
2. Go on a scenic road trip
I have been on countless road trips in my life. Not just in Italy, but everywhere from the USA to Iceland, Japan, and even the deserts of Morocco.
But let me tell you, a road trip through the Dolomites is something else if you love nature and landscapes.
It might not be the first place that comes to mind for a road trip, but trust me, it is an experience of a lifetime.
The scenery is absolutely breathtaking, and driving there is a joy. The roads are well maintained, easy to navigate, and surrounded by one incredible view after another.
It is the perfect way to explore the Dolomites.
You can stop at beautiful hiking trails, visit cute alpine towns, and drive through spectacular mountain passes like Passo Gardena, which connects Val Gardena and Alta Badia.
Along the way, you will also see some of the region’s most iconic highlights.
The only problem?
If you are anything like me, you will end up taking much longer than planned. I always stop to take pictures because every single view is impossible to resist!
3. Take incredible photos of the landscape
I can’t write about the Dolomites without talking about photography. I absolutely love taking pictures, and honestly, it’s one of the best things you can do here.
Everywhere you look, there is something worth capturing. I know I keep saying this, but landscapes really are that incredible here.
If you are looking for the best photo spots in the Dolomites, here are my favorites:
- Tre Cime di Lavaredo
- Seceda
- Lago di Braies
- Puez Odle Nature Park
- Cadini di Misurina
- Alpe di Siusi
- Lago di Misurina
- Lago Sorapis
- Cinque Torri
- Val di Funes
These places are very popular so be prepared for crowds, especially at Lago di Braies and Seceda during high season.
Hiking is a great way to avoid the crowds and get unique angles for your shots. You will have the time and space to frame the perfect picture without crowds and honestly, it’s just a much enjoyable experience if you’re not in the middle of a crowd!
Sunrise and sunset are your best bets for magical light, but do not lose track of time if you are relying on a cable car to get back down.
I learned this the hard way when I missed the last ride from Seceda. Let’s just say hiking all the way down was not part of the plan, and even my dog Balù was ready to call it a day by the time we made it to the hotel in Santa Cristina 😂
4. Visit charming alpine towns
Even though I’ve been rambling about the landscape for a while, the Dolomites are not just about breathtaking views, the towns here are equally delightful.
My all time favorite is Selva di Val Gardena.
It’s straight out from a picture and the loveliest place to stay both in summer and winter. Wooden alpine chalets with perfect lawns, ski slopes, and plenty of super cozy cafés and restaurant… it’s exactly how you would imagine a village in the Dolomites!
Other lovely towns worth mentioning are Ortisei in Val Gardena, Corvara in Val Badia, Cortina d’Ampezzo (which will host the 2026 Winter Olympics) and Santa Maddalena in Val di Funes, with the famous church framed by peaks that looks like a postcard.
If you are looking for larger cities, Bolzano and Trento are not technically in the Dolomites but are very nice and are considered sort of a gateways to the region.
While in Trento, don’t miss MUSE, a science museum designed by Renzo Piano. It is one of the best museums in Italy, especially if you love nature and science like I do!
5. Relax at a spa in the mountains
The Dolomites are not just about outdoor adventures, they are also one of the best places to relax and treat yourself.
Most hotels here are built with wellness in mind, so you’ll find plenty of options for spas, saunas, massages, and more. Many also have stunning outdoor pools overlooking the mountains, making it so easy to unwind after a day of exploring.
Just imagine sinking into a warm outdoor pool, watching the sunset light up the peaks… It is especially magical in winter after a day of skiing!
If you want a truly unforgettable experience, you have to visit QC Terme Dolomiti!
This boutique spa in Val di Fassa is part of the famous QC Terme chain, which has incredible locations all over Italy and beyond. I’ve been to several (Milan, San Pellegrino, Bormio and Mont Blanc) because my boyfriend is super into spas, and every single one is amazing!
The Dolomites branch is no exception.
Built with sustainable materials, QC Terme Dolomiti offers everything you could dream of: heated outdoor pools, panoramic saunas with breathtaking views and a variety of massages and wellness treatments.
I highly recommend spending a full day here, but there are also options to just visit for a few hours or even just for the evening. Anyway, it is the ultimate way to relax and recharge while surrounded by the beauty of the Dolomites.
👉 QC Terme Dolomites tickets
Make sure to book in advance, especially during the weekend!
Check prices and book your tickets here
6. Try winter sports
If you’re visiting the Dolomites in winter, you have to try some winter sports.
Hiking is kind of off the table with all the snow, so skiing is, in my opinion, the best way to explore this magical region during the winter months (I personally ski, but snowboarding is just as great!).
I highly recommend staying in Val Gardena, it’s the largest ski area in the Dolomites and in general one of the best bases to explore the Dolomites. It has something for everyone, from beginner-friendly panoramic slopes to challenging runs for more experienced skiers.
In my opinion, the ultimate Dolomites winter experience is completing the Sellaronda ski circuit.
It’s a 25 miles loop that takes you around the Sella massif, crossing four valleys and mountain passes, including Val Gardena, Arabba, Alta Badia, and Val di Fassa.
It’s not overly technical, but you’ll need to be at least an intermediate skier as it takes a full day to complete. The views are absolutely breathtaking!
Not into skiing? No worries!
I love snowshoeing. It’s the perfect way to enjoy peaceful trails surrounded by snowy woods and stunning landscapes.
For something more fun, head to Ortisei or Alpe di Siusi for tobogganing or sledding on runs that stretch for kilometers.
7. Experience the magic of Christmas markets
Christmas markets in the Dolomites are magical. Wooden stalls glow with festive lights, selling handmade crafts, local food, and mulled wine.
They are perfect for holiday gift shopping or just soaking in the cozy, romantic atmosphere.
Some of the best markets are in Bressanone, Ortisei, Selva di Val Gardena, San Candido, and Dobbiaco.
I also have a soft spot for Rovereto, near Trento, where my sister used to live. Last time I visited the christmas market, I bought some super cute embroidered table runners and cushions, and I use them every single Christmas. They always bring back such warm memories!
These markets run from late November to early January (usually until the 5th or 6th).
What to do in the Dolomites in summer
Summer is one of the best times to visit the Dolomites. It’s perfect for a road trip and hands down the best season for hiking. If you’re into sports, nature, or photography, you’ll absolutely love it here in the summer.
A road trip is a great way to explore the Dolomites in summer.
You can combine visiting some alpine towns with hikes to explore the incredible landscapes.
For hiking, I highly recommend Tre Cime di Lavaredo and Seceda. Both are iconic spots that are completely worth the effort.
If hiking is not your thing, Alpe di Siusi and Lago di Braies are fantastic options that require almost no effort and still deliver breathtaking views.
No matter the season, relaxing at a spa is always a great idea. You can book a hotel with a wellness center, or even better, spend a day at QC Terme Dolomiti for the ultimate relaxation.
Where to stay
If you want to stay in one spot, Val Gardena is an excellent base. It is close to Seceda, the Puez Odle Nature Park, Alpe di Siusi, and just a short drive from Val Badia through the stunning Passo Gardena.
If you are planning a road trip, pair Val Gardena with Cortina d’Ampezzo, which is perfect for visiting Lago di Braies and Tre Cime di Lavaredo.
What to do in the Dolomites in winter
Most people visit the Dolomites in the summer, but winter here is absolutely magical.
Hiking might not be an option, but there are so many fun winter activities to enjoy, like skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and sledding.
The Dolomites have some of the best slopes in the world, and it is also a fantastic place to learn to ski if you have never tried before.
The winter vibe is so cozy and romantic.
Just imagine sipping a hot chocolate in a cute café with snow falling outside or warming up by a fireplace after a day out in the snow.
Winter is not just about skiing though.
It is the perfect time to visit the Christmas markets to pick up gifts and enjoy a little shopping.
The cold weather also makes a spa day feel even more amazing. Relaxing in a warm outdoor pool with snow all around and views of the Dolomites is one of my favorite things to do in winter.
Where to stay
Val Gardena is my top recommendation for winter too.
It is the largest ski area in the Dolomites, with 181 kilometers of slopes, and the town is so lovely when it is covered in snow.
Other great options for places to stay include Corvara in Val Badia or Cortina d’Ampezzo, which are both perfect for a winter getaway.
FAQs
Can you see the Dolomites without hiking?
Yes, you absolutely can! The Dolomites are perfect for non-hikers.
Lago di Braies is just a 5–10 minute flat walk from the parking lot, and Lago di Carezza is another easy spot with stunning views. In Val Gardena, you can take the chairlift up to Seceda Ridge or Alpe di Siusi and soak in the views without breaking a sweat.
You can also drive through Passo Gardena to Val Badia or visit Val di Funes, which is beautiful even without hiking. For some extra pampering, spend a day at QC Terme Dolomiti or pick a hotel with a spa.
Are the Dolomites in Italy worth visiting?
YES! The Dolomites are one of the best places in Italy and probably my personal favorite. The landscapes are unreal, with the Alps at their absolute best here. No wonder it’s a UNESCO world heritage site!
There is something for everyone, whether you love hiking, relaxing at a spa, or taking a scenic road trip through the mountains.
Whatever your travel style, the Dolomites are guaranteed to leave you speechless, trust me.
How many days do you need in Dolomites?
It really depends on what you want to do. In my opinion, 3 days is the minimum.
You could stick to one area and explore with hikes or skiing, or do a quick road trip to see a few highlights.
For example, stay in Val Gardena to explore Seceda, Alpe di Siusi, and the Odle mountains, or stay near Cortina for Tre Cime, Cadini di Misurina, and Lago di Braies.
If you are into hiking, I recommend at least 5 days. Whenever we visit in summer for hiking, we usually stay 5 days or more. In winter, 3 days of skiing is often enough.
What month is best to go to the Dolomites?
Summer and winter are the best seasons, offering completely different but equally amazing experiences.
July and August are perfect for hiking, with stable weather and rifugios open. September and October are great for road trips and fall colors, but by October, many mountain huts are closed, and some trails become trickier. The good news? You’ll have the trails almost to yourself.
December to February is a dream for skiing and snow sports. If you visit in December, you can enjoy the magical Christmas markets too.
Spring, on the other hand, is not my favorite time to visit. The weather is unpredictable, most rifugios are closed, and it is harder to make the most of the trip.
How to get around in the Dolomites?
If you are planning a road trip or want to cover longer distances, renting a car is your best option. It makes getting around so much easier and saves you loads of time.
That said, you can definitely visit the Dolomites without a car.
Public transport, especially in Val Gardena, is super efficient. Towns like Ortisei and Selva are connected by frequent buses during the summer, and many hotels even offer free bus cards for their guests.
Reaching cable cars is also very easy on foot or by bus, so you will not have any problems without a car.
However, if you are planning to start your hikes early in the morning or return late in the evening, I would recommend renting a car for more flexibility.
Where to stay in the Dolomites?
For easy access to the main highlights, I recommend Val Gardena, Cortina d’Ampezzo, or Alta Badia. These areas are perfect whether you love hiking, skiing, relaxing at a spa, enjoying delicious food, or simply taking in the incredible views.
If I had to choose just one, it would be Val Gardena.
I have so many wonderful memories here from when I was a kid, and it remains my absolute favorite place to stay in the Dolomites.
Next steps for planning your trip to the Dolomites
Now you know all the best things to do, especially if it’s your first time visiting!
The next step is figuring out where to stay, how to get there, and planning your hikes (if that’s on your list of things to do).
I’ve got you covered with my article on the best places to stay in the Dolomites, where I share all the details about the best areas to stay in and hotel recommendations.
As you’ve probably guessed by now, my favorite is Val Gardena, but Cortina and Alta Badia are also excellent options.
If hiking is your thing, now is the perfect time to start planning your day hikes.
There are so many to choose from, but if you ask me, I’d say start with Seceda and the Odle, Tre Cime (Drei Zinnen), and Alpe di Siusi. These are absolute musts!
Enjoy your adventure in the Dolomites, it’s going to be unforgettable!
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