Itinerary

The Dolomites and [Lake Como](https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=Lake%20[Como](https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=Como&pid=P00093752&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=roamaround")&pid=P00093752&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=roamaround") are stunning destinations, and I’m excited to help you plan an unforgettable 9-day adventure! Here’s a fun and engaging itinerary that balances exploration, relaxation, and breathtaking scenery.

## Day 1: Arrival in Cortina d'Ampezzo

Morning:

• Arrive in Cortina d'Ampezzo, the Queen of the Dolomites! Check into your hotel and take a moment to soak in the stunning mountain views.
• Grab a hearty breakfast at a local café. Try a traditional Italian pastry like a cornetto with your coffee!

Afternoon:

• Explore the charming town. Stroll along Corso Italia, the main street, and pop into some shops for local crafts and souvenirs.
• Visit the Basilica Minore dei Santi Filippo e Giacomo, a beautiful church with lovely frescoes.

Evening:

• Enjoy dinner at a cozy restaurant. Try some local dishes like speck and polenta or a hearty pasta dish.
• If you’re up for it, take a leisurely evening walk to enjoy the sunset over the mountains.

## Day 2: Hiking in the Dolomites

Morning:

• After breakfast, head to the Cinque Torri area. You can take a cable car up for stunning views and start your hike.
• Spend the morning hiking the trails around Cinque Torri, where you’ll see incredible rock formations and maybe even some WWII ruins.

Afternoon:

• Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst the breathtaking scenery. There are plenty of scenic spots to choose from!
• After lunch, consider hiking to Lago di Limides, a picturesque lake that’s perfect for photos.

Evening:

• Return to Cortina and treat yourself to a nice dinner. Try a local wine to complement your meal.
• If you’re feeling adventurous, check out a local bar for some live music or a nightcap.

## Day 3: Scenic Drive and Explore

Morning:

• After breakfast, take a scenic drive along the Great Dolomites Road. Stop at viewpoints like Passo Pordoi and Passo Sella for breathtaking panoramas.
• Don’t forget your camera!

Afternoon:

• Head to Val Gardena and explore the charming village of Ortisei. Have lunch at a local trattoria.
• Spend the afternoon visiting the Seceda plateau. You can take a cable car up and enjoy a leisurely hike or simply relax and take in the views.

Evening:

• Return to Cortina for your last night. Enjoy a farewell dinner at a restaurant with a view, and reflect on your amazing Dolomites experience.

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## Day 4: Travel to Selva di Val Gardena

Morning:

• After breakfast, check out and head to Selva di Val Gardena, which is just a short drive away.
• Check into your hotel and get settled.

Afternoon:

• Explore Selva di Val Gardena. Visit the Church of San Giovanni and take a leisurely walk around the village.
• Have lunch at a local café, sampling some delicious Tyrolean cuisine.

Evening:

• Enjoy dinner at a traditional restaurant. Try the local dumplings (canederli) – they’re a must!

## Day 5: Hiking and Nature

Morning:

• After breakfast, take the Dantercepies cable car up to the mountain. The views are absolutely stunning!
• Spend the morning hiking the Sella Ronda circuit. It’s a beautiful trail that showcases the best of the Dolomites.

Afternoon:

• Have a picnic lunch on the trail or stop at a mountain hut for some local fare.
• Continue your hike, taking in the breathtaking landscapes and maybe even spotting some wildlife.

Evening:

• Return to Selva and unwind. Enjoy a relaxing dinner at your hotel or a nearby restaurant.

## Day 6: Explore the Surroundings

Morning:

• After breakfast, take a day trip to Alpe di Siusi, Europe’s largest high-altitude alpine meadow. It’s a paradise for hikers and nature lovers!
• Spend the morning exploring the meadows and enjoying the stunning views of the surrounding peaks.

Afternoon:

• Have lunch at a mountain hut, enjoying the fresh air and beautiful scenery.
• In the afternoon, consider renting a bike to explore more of the area or take a leisurely walk around the meadows.

Evening:

• Return to Selva for dinner. Try some local wines to accompany your meal.

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## Day 7: Travel to [Lake Como](https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=Lake%20[Como](https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=Como&pid=P00093752&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=roamaround")&pid=P00093752&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=roamaround")

Morning:

• After breakfast, check out and drive to [Lake Como](https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=Lake%20[Como](https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=Como&pid=P00093752&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=roamaround")&pid=P00093752&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=roamaround"). The drive is scenic, so take your time and enjoy the views!
• Check into your hotel upon arrival.

Afternoon:

• Explore the charming town of Bellagio, often referred to as the "Pearl of [Lake Como](https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=Lake%20[Como](https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=Como&pid=P00093752&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=roamaround")&pid=P00093752&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=roamaround")." Stroll through the narrow streets and enjoy the beautiful gardens.
• Have lunch at a lakeside café, soaking in the stunning views.

Evening:

• Enjoy dinner at a restaurant with a view of the lake. Try some fresh fish from the lake or a classic risotto.

## Day 8: [Lake Como](https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=Lake%20[Como](https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=Como&pid=P00093752&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=roamaround")&pid=P00093752&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=roamaround") Exploration

Morning:

• After breakfast, take a ferry ride to Varenna, a picturesque village on the eastern shore of the lake.
• Explore Varenna’s charming streets and visit the Villa Monastero with its beautiful gardens.

Afternoon:

• Have lunch in Varenna, then take a leisurely walk along the lakeside promenade.
• Consider visiting Castello di Vezio, which offers stunning views of the lake.

Evening:

• Return to Bellagio for dinner. Enjoy a leisurely evening by the lake, perhaps with a gelato in hand!

## Day 9: Relax and Departure

Morning:

• Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and take some time to relax by the lake. Maybe take a swim or just enjoy the views.
• If time allows, visit Como city. Explore the historic center and take the funicular up to Brunate for panoramic views.

Afternoon:

• Have a final lunch in Como before heading back to your departure point.
• Reflect on your incredible journey through the Dolomites and [Lake Como](https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=Lake%20[Como](https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=Como&pid=P00093752&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=roamaround")&pid=P00093752&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=roamaround")!

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I hope this itinerary helps you make the most of your time in these breathtaking regions! Enjoy every moment, and don’t forget to take lots of photos! Safe travels! 🌄🏞️🏖️