3 day itinerary for Dolomites

Itinerary

Oh, the Dolomites! What a stunning choice for a getaway! With their jagged peaks, lush valleys, and charming alpine villages, you’re in for a treat. Let’s dive into a delightful 3-day itinerary that will have you soaking in the beauty of nature and enjoying some fantastic hikes.

Best Month to Visit:

September is a fantastic time to visit the Dolomites. The weather is usually mild, the summer crowds have thinned out, and the fall colors start to emerge, creating a breathtaking backdrop for your adventures.

## Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Cortina d'Ampezzo

Morning:

• Flight from Porto to Venice: Start your journey with a flight from Porto to Venice. Once you land, you can rent a car or take a bus to Cortina d'Ampezzo, which is about a 2-hour drive.

Afternoon:

• Lunch in Cortina: Grab a bite at a local trattoria. Try some traditional dishes like speck and cheese or a hearty pasta.
• Explore Cortina: Stroll around this charming town, check out the shops, and take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Evening:

• Dinner with a View: Enjoy dinner at a restaurant with a view of the Dolomites. Try [Ristorante Pizzeria Lago di Braies](https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=Ristorante%20Pizzeria%20Lago%20di%20Braies&pid=P00093752&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=roamaround") for a cozy atmosphere and delicious food.
• Rest Up: Get a good night’s sleep; you’ll need your energy for the hikes ahead!

## Day 2: Hike the Tre Cime di Lavaredo

Morning:

• Early Breakfast: Fuel up with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation.
• Drive to Tre Cime di Lavaredo: Head out early to the Tre Cime di Lavaredo (about a 1.5-hour drive). The views on the way are simply breathtaking!

Midday:

• Hiking the Loop: Start your hike around the iconic Tre Cime. The loop is about 10 km (6 miles) and takes around 3-4 hours, depending on your pace. The views are absolutely jaw-dropping, so don’t forget your camera!

Afternoon:

• Picnic Lunch: Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic spots along the trail. There are plenty of places to sit and soak in the views.
• Continue Exploring: After your hike, you can explore some of the nearby trails or visit the Rifugio Auronzo for a coffee and dessert.

Evening:

• Return to Cortina: Head back to Cortina for dinner. Try Ristorante Da Beppe for some local cuisine.
• Relax: Enjoy a leisurely evening, perhaps with a stroll through the town or a glass of wine at a local bar.

## Day 3: Lago di Braies and Val di Funes

Morning:

• Breakfast and Departure: Have breakfast and then set off for Lago di Braies (about a 1-hour drive). This lake is one of the most picturesque spots in the Dolomites!

Midday:

• Lago di Braies: Spend some time walking around the lake (about 1-2 hours). You can also rent a rowboat for a unique perspective of the stunning scenery.
• Lunch: Enjoy lunch at the lakeside restaurant, soaking in the views.

Afternoon:

• Val di Funes: After lunch, drive to Val di Funes (about 1 hour). This valley is famous for its beautiful landscapes and the iconic Church of St. Magdalena.
• Hiking: Take a leisurely hike in the area, such as the Adolf Loos Path, which offers stunning views of the Odle Mountains.

Evening:

• Dinner in Val di Funes: Enjoy a traditional Tyrolean dinner at a local restaurant, like Ristorante Malga Zannes.
• Return to Cortina or Venice: Depending on your flight schedule, you can either head back to Cortina for the night or drive back to Venice for your departure.

Final Thoughts:

This itinerary balances adventure with relaxation, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Dolomites. Don’t forget to pack your hiking boots, a good camera, and a sense of adventure! Enjoy your trip! 🌄✨