Itinerary

The Italian Dolomites are a breathtaking destination, perfect for beginner hikers and those who appreciate stunning landscapes. Let’s craft a delightful 7-day itinerary that starts in Milan and takes you through some of the most picturesque spots in the Dolomites. Ready? Let’s go!

## Day 1: Milan to Bolzano

Morning:

• Start your adventure with a train ride from Milan to Bolzano. The journey takes about 3 hours, and you’ll get to enjoy some beautiful scenery along the way.
• Grab a quick breakfast at a café in Milan before you leave. A cappuccino and a pastry will do the trick!

Afternoon:

• Once you arrive in Bolzano, check into your hotel or accommodation.
• Spend the afternoon exploring the charming town. Don’t miss the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology, home to Ötzi the Iceman.

Evening:

• Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Try some Tyrolean specialties like speck and dumplings!

## Day 2: Bolzano to Val Gardena

Morning:

• After breakfast, take a bus from Bolzano to Ortisei in Val Gardena (about 40 minutes).
• Once in Ortisei, take the Alpe di Siusi cable car up to the stunning Alpe di Siusi plateau.

Afternoon:

• Enjoy a leisurely hike on the easy trails around Alpe di Siusi. The views are absolutely breathtaking, and you can take your time soaking it all in.
• Have a picnic lunch with some local cheese and bread that you can grab from a shop in Ortisei.

Evening:

• Return to Ortisei and enjoy dinner at a cozy restaurant. Try the local pasta dishes!

## Day 3: Val Gardena to Cortina d'Ampezzo

Morning:

• After breakfast, take a bus from Ortisei to Cortina d'Ampezzo (about 1.5 hours).
• Check into your accommodation in Cortina.

Afternoon:

• Explore the town of Cortina, known for its stunning mountain backdrop and chic shops.
• Take a short, beginner-friendly hike to the nearby Lago di Sorapis. The trail is about 10 km round trip and offers stunning views of the turquoise lake.

Evening:

• Enjoy dinner in Cortina. The town has a vibrant dining scene, so you’ll have plenty of options!

## Day 4: Cortina d'Ampezzo - Tre Cime di Lavaredo

Morning:

• After breakfast, take a bus to the Auronzo di Cadore (about 30 minutes).
• From there, you can take a shuttle bus to the Rifugio Auronzo, which is the starting point for the Tre Cime di Lavaredo hike.

Afternoon:

• Hike the loop around the Tre Cime. This is a relatively easy hike (about 10 km) with stunning views of the iconic peaks. Don’t forget your camera!
• Enjoy a packed lunch with a view.

Evening:

• Return to Cortina and have a relaxing dinner. Treat yourself to some gelato for dessert!

## Day 5: Cortina to Lago di Braies

Morning:

• After breakfast, take a bus to Lago di Braies (about 1 hour).
• Spend the morning walking around the lake. The flat trail around Lago di Braies is perfect for beginner hikers and offers stunning reflections of the mountains in the water.

Afternoon:

• Rent a rowboat for a fun experience on the lake or simply relax by the shore with a good book.
• Have lunch at the lakeside restaurant.

Evening:

• Head back to Cortina for dinner. Enjoy a hearty meal to refuel after your day of exploration.

## Day 6: Cortina to San Martino di Castrozza

Morning:

• After breakfast, take a bus to San Martino di Castrozza (about 1.5 hours).
• Check into your accommodation and get ready for a day of exploration.

Afternoon:

• Take the Rosetta cable car up to the top for stunning views. From there, you can take an easy hike to the nearby Malga Ces, where you can enjoy the scenery and maybe spot some wildlife.
• Have a picnic lunch or grab a bite at a mountain hut.

Evening:

• Return to San Martino di Castrozza and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Try some polenta or a hearty stew!

## Day 7: San Martino di Castrozza to Milan

Morning:

• After breakfast, take some time to enjoy the last views of the Dolomites. Maybe take a short walk around the area.
• Then, catch a bus back to Bolzano (about 2 hours) and from there, take a train back to Milan (about 3 hours).

Afternoon:

• Arrive in Milan and spend your last afternoon exploring any sights you may have missed, like the Duomo or Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.

Evening:

• Enjoy a farewell dinner in Milan. Celebrate your adventure with some delicious Italian cuisine!

Tips for Your Trip:

• Always check the bus and train schedules in advance, as they can vary by season.
• Wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring layers, as the weather can change quickly in the mountains.
• Don’t forget your camera – the Dolomites are incredibly photogenic!

I hope this itinerary helps you have an unforgettable week in the Italian Dolomites! Enjoy every moment of your adventure! 🌄✨