Itinerary

The Italian Dolomites are a stunning destination, and I’m excited to help you plan a budget-friendly 7-day itinerary starting from Milan. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Milan to Bolzano

Morning:

• Transport: Take an early morning train from Milan to Bolzano. The journey takes about 3-4 hours, and you can find budget-friendly tickets on Trenitalia or Italo.
• Cost: Around €20-30 if booked in advance.

Afternoon:

• Arrive in Bolzano and check into a budget-friendly accommodation like a hostel or guesthouse.
• Explore the charming city center, visit the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology to see Ötzi the Iceman.

Evening:

• Enjoy a budget dinner at a local pizzeria or trattoria. Try some local speck and cheese!

## Day 2: Bolzano to Ortisei

Morning:

• Transport: Take a bus from Bolzano to Ortisei (about 30-40 minutes).
• Cost: Around €5-10.

Afternoon:

• Check into your accommodation in Ortisei.
• Take a leisurely walk around the town and enjoy the beautiful views. Visit the Church of St. Ulrich.

Evening:

• Have dinner at a local restaurant. Look for daily specials to save some money!

## Day 3: Seceda Hike

Morning:

• Transport: Take the Seceda cable car (check for discounts or combined tickets).
• Cost: Around €20 for a round trip.

Hiking Plan:

• Enjoy a beginner-friendly hike from Seceda to the nearby Alpe di Siusi. The views are breathtaking, and the trails are well-marked.

Afternoon:

• Have a picnic lunch with local goodies you can buy in Ortisei.
• Continue your hike, taking in the stunning scenery.

Evening:

• Return to Ortisei and enjoy a cozy dinner. Try some local pasta dishes!

## Day 4: Ortisei to Canazei

Morning:

• Transport: Take a bus from Ortisei to Canazei (about 30 minutes).
• Cost: Around €5-10.

Afternoon:

• Check into your accommodation in Canazei.
• Explore the town and visit the local shops.

Evening:

• Dinner at a local eatery. Look for places that offer traditional Ladin cuisine.

## Day 5: Piz Boè Hike

Morning:

• Transport: Take the cable car from Canazei to Piz Boè.
• Cost: Around €20 for a round trip.

Hiking Plan:

• Hike around the Piz Boè area. The trails are beginner-friendly, and you can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Dolomites.

Afternoon:

• Have lunch at the mountain hut or pack a picnic.
• Spend some time enjoying the views and taking photos.

Evening:

• Return to Canazei and enjoy a hearty dinner. Try some local goulash!

## Day 6: Canazei to Cortina d'Ampezzo

Morning:

• Transport: Take a bus from Canazei to Cortina d'Ampezzo (about 1.5 hours).
• Cost: Around €10-15.

Afternoon:

• Check into your accommodation in Cortina.
• Explore the town and visit the famous Corso Italia for some shopping.

Evening:

• Dinner at a budget-friendly restaurant. Look for places that offer local dishes at reasonable prices.

## Day 7: Lago di Braies

Morning:

• Transport: Take a bus from Cortina to Lago di Braies (check local schedules).
• Cost: Around €10-15.

Hiking Plan:

• Enjoy a leisurely walk around Lago di Braies. The trail is flat and perfect for beginner hikers. The lake is stunning, so don’t forget your camera!

Afternoon:

• Have a picnic lunch by the lake or grab a snack at the café.
• Spend some time relaxing and soaking in the beauty of the area.

Evening:

• Return to Cortina and enjoy your last dinner in the Dolomites. Celebrate with some gelato for dessert!

## Day 8: Return to Milan

Morning:

• Transport: Take a bus from Cortina to Venice or Bolzano, then catch a train back to Milan.
• Cost: Around €20-30 for the train.

Afternoon:

• Arrive in Milan and enjoy some last-minute sightseeing or shopping before heading home.

Tips for Budget Travel:

• Accommodation: Look for hostels, guesthouses, or Airbnb options.
• Food: Try local bakeries for breakfast and pack picnics for lunch.
• Transport: Use public transport as much as possible; it’s cheaper and gives you a chance to mingle with locals.

I hope this itinerary helps you have an amazing time in the Dolomites! Enjoy the breathtaking views, delicious food, and the wonderful hiking trails. If you have any questions or need more details, feel free to ask! Safe travels! 🌄✨