Dolomites In Summer | 15 Things To Do And Where To Stay

The Dolomites in summer are a paradise for hikers and sports addicts. We had the best time while exploring the peaks and valleys in a blasting summer in the Dolomites. If you are up for outdoor adventures, breathtaking views, unspoiled nature, hiking and fresh swim in glacier lakes, the Dolomites is the next adventure you need in summer.

As Italian we have travelled extensively in the Dolomites and Northern Italy, discovering only the best places. In this guide, you certainly find iconic trails that will descend through untouched valleys. Surely, there are many things to do in the Dolomites, and you neither have the idea.

Dolomites summer guide to things to do and places to go

Is Dolomites worth visiting in summer?

Yes. The Dolomites are the perfect summer vacation in Italy. Summer is also the most popular time to visit the Dolomites. During the good season, the mountains offer the perfect climate to enjoy outdoor activities, relax with gorgeous scenery, and pack your days with plenty of adventures.

Also, consider the Dolomites in summer for hiking, mountain biking to the top, climbing, waterfall chasing, rafting, or generally visiting the hut on top of the mountains.

15 Things to do in the Dolomites in Summer

Admire the bell tower in the lake
Go e-biking on the Malga Campo in Val di Sole
Relax in the Comano Thermal baths
Go lake swimming (Ice Plunge)
Chase waterfalls
Sip a glass of Trento Doc
Indulge in local food
Hike the Dolomites
Walk through the Adamello-Brenta National Park
Go Kayaking
Rafting and extreme water activities
Enjoy the sunrise in the Dolomites
Yoga in a Museum
Enjoy a road trip
Be amused by the sunset on the Dolomites

Explore & Stay: Unforgettable Tours & Accommodations in the Dolomites!

Discover handpicked tours and accommodations tailored to enhance your journey. Act fast—secure your spot before they’re gone!

❤️‍🔥 Our favourite activities in the Dolomites
8-Day tour in the Dolomites by Bike // 👉 BEST TOUR!
Rafting on the river Noce
Dolomites Best Lakes Day Trip // 💲 BEST VALUE FOR MONEY

🛎️ Book your accommodation
QC Terme Hotel Bagni Vecchi – Bormio
Monroc Hotel and Spa: Comfortable hotel with Spa Centre // 💆🏻‍♀️ BEST SPA HOTEL!
ALPENHEIM CHARMING & SPA HOTEL // 🥾 Close to the Hikes and centre

FAQ | Summer in the Dolomites Italy

How many days do you need in the Dolomites?

At the very least, a week. There is, however, no perfect answer to this topic. Even in 4 or 5 days, you may plan a superb Dolomites itinerary. The duration may vary depending on the time of year you visit the Dolomites. We have a whole 7-day Dolomites itinerary waiting for you.

Is the Dolomites worth visiting?

YES. It doesn’t matter which part of the Dolomites you want to see or how long you want to stay. This Italian region is one of the most stunning in the world. For all types of visitors, the Dolomites are excellent.

Do you need a car in the Dolomites?

You’ll need a vehicle to explore the Dolomites in summer. There are several vehicle rental options in the nearby airports of Trento and Bolzano. There is a potential that you can get to some destinations by taking public transportation, but this requires a lot of time spent travelling and occasionally changing buses in the highlands. You may also take the train to Trento, Bolzano, Belluno and a few other little towns along the route.

Are the Dolomites expensive?

Yes. We found the Dolomites costly but worth it. However, we found the Italian Dolomites cheaper than Austria, Switzerland or France mountains, and so it comes to a lower price in comparison. By booking in advance your accommodation, you can save a lot. You can spend less visiting the Dolomites early in summer or later in September. Locals tend to stay in the Dolomites from July until mid-August, which is the busiest time of the high season.

Where are the Dolomites located?

The Dolomites are a Unesco World Heritage Site in northern Italy. The Italian Alps form the natural border with Austria on that side of the country. The northern Italian Alps is a mountain range in northern Italy that includes a broad region with 18 high peaks rising above 3,000 metres.

The Dolomites are found in three separate Italian regions: Trentino, Friuli Venezia Giulia, and Veneto. The stunning scenery will captivate you, with some of the most breathtaking mountain backdrops alternated with boundless green valleys, deep gorges, and exquisite water streams. Check out some additional European and Italian sights.

How to explore the Dolomites

Some of the best places on our list are not easily accessible, and you need to rent a car. With the exception of the well-known towns, such as Cortina, most of the others aren’t well served by public transport or trains.

Even though there are no difficulties, and roads are well maintained, it is still difficult to visit the Dolomites in Summer, relying only on bus services. From June to September, there is no snow on the peaks, so perfect even if you are accustomed to driving a car often (like us in London).

This makes it easy for you to rent a car and slowly explore Madonna di Campiglio, Cortina d’Ampezzo, and the wonderful Alpe Siusi and have some great experiences through Val di Sole and Val di Non.

A guide to Dolomites in Summer: 15 things to do, places to go and stay

Likely to sell out

Express bus Venice to Cortina

Purchase in advance your bus express transport from Venice Airport to Cortina. It gets fully booked way in advance, plan accordingly.

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Weather in the Dolomites in Summer

The best time to visit the Dolomites is definitely in late spring, taking advantage of shoulder season prices. Instead, later on in May, you will experience the best weather, fresh spring clean air and the first snow melting, creating breathtaking streams and waterfalls.

The Dolomite’s summer weather is variable, but honestly the most gorgeous season, even better than winter. You should plan your holidays in Italy in summer, visiting the Dolomites in June. Early summer is an excellent month to visit the Italian Alps, enjoying the pleasant temperatures, sunny spells and outdoor activities with just fewer people around.

June in the Dolomites

In June, expect temperatures of about 14°C on average, with the lowest of 5°C to 6°C in high elevations (1224 metres in Cortina d’Ampezzo) at night.
However, the chilly temperature is pleasant and perfect for outdoor activities. Expect 6 to 8 days of rain within the month, with scattered showers every now and then. In June, the total daylight in the Dolomites is about 15 hours per day.

Dolomites in July

Spending July in the Dolomites is definitely warmer than June, with fewer rainy days. In July, the temperatures on the Dolomites are around 17°C on average high, and 13°C, the lowest. July is the choice for hikes; the temperatures go lower as they go up.
However, it is worth knowing that there are many water sports activities on the hottest days.
In recent years many professional football teams have decided to go for summer preparation in the Dolomites.

Dolomites August

The weather in the Dolomites in August is pleasant, with temperatures over 20°C on average and a minimum of 15°C. The snow is completely melted on the peaks, contributing to having the rivers full, perfect for kayaking, rafting and other extreme activities.
In August, there are fewer precipitation days, with about 5 to 6 days of scattered showers, but with a clear blue sky.

View of Lake Bries and the mountains in the afternoon | How to spend Dolomites in Summer — Summer is the best time to visit Lake Braies. Enjoy the beautiful landscape of the alpines lakes visiting the Dolomites in summer

Best time to visit the Dolomites

The Dolomites are a year-round attraction. There is no optimal season to visit the Dolomites because the region has some of Europe’s top ski lodges as well as some of the best summer experiences.
Weather-wise, the Dolomites have frigid temperatures in winter but moderate temperatures in summer.

As a result, the Trentino and Val di Funes districts are perfect for a summer trip to Europe. Summer temperatures rarely exceed 25°C.

If you’re looking for the best time to visit the Dolomites, it’s undoubtedly late spring or early summer; the months of May and June are ideal, but September is also an option. For cooler weather, we recommend checking out Autumn for cooler weather, with October and November being the perfect months to avoid crowds.

How to get to the Dolomites

Because there is no defined “Dolomites Airport” you have to fly into one of the nearby cities to access the region. The good news is that there are several options to arrive nearby the Dolomites and drive through to reach your destination.

Below we have listed some of the best options, along with travel details. Our suggestion is mainly to consider Verona or Milan (Bergamo Airport). However, another great option is to fly into Innsbruck, in Austria, which will take you closer to the Italian border.

Venice (Marco Polo)

3 hours to Bolzano, 2 hours to Cortina d’Ampezzo -Book your Coach for £15 | $20 | €18 | Check Transfers available.

Milan (Bergamo Airport)

3+ hours to Bolzano, 5 hours to Cortina d’Ampezzo

Verona (Valerio Catullo Airport)

3 hours to Cortina d’Ampezzo, 2 hour drive to Bolzano, 3 hour drive to Cortina d’Ampezzo

Innsbruck (Austria)

90 minutes to Bolzano, 2 hour and 30 minutes to Cortina d’Ampezzo

Is it easy to reach the Dolomites?

There are several ways to reach the Dolomites; as seen above, you should tailor your itinerary considering prices and routes. Having airports like Verona, Bergamo and Venice can make your journey easy, renting a car at the airport and exploring the Dolomites through a road trip in Northern Italy.

The Dolomites are made for road trips, and renting a car when you arrive at the airport is the most convenient way to get into the heart of the region. You have the option to travel through the destinations by public transport, trains and buses run between the main cities.

However, the connections are not straightforward, and a regular route of about two hours by car can take up to 5 hours in an alternative way.

Therefore, if arriving in Innsbruck, book your bus to Cortina d’Ampezzo or Bolzano and rent a car there. Flixbus serves the route very well and is cheaper than renting a car in Austria and driving it into Italy.

Gorges of Ponte Alto - Climb a gorge in Trentino - Adventures to do in Trentino — Toti touching the refreshing water in a gorge nearby Trento.

Activities in summer in the Dolomites

Go e-biking on the Malga Campo in Val di Sole

This could be Trentino’s most engaging activity. Riding an e-bike up the Dolomites was incredible. We climbed 2000 metres to the Malga Monte Sole on a rugged trail. There is also a beautiful hotel and restaurant in this location where you may try the local cuisine.

The view from the summit is breathtaking, and even in the summer, the Adamello glacier can be seen. To put things in perspective, you’re only above Madonna di Campiglio and Dimaro, two of Italy’s most popular ski resorts.

Location | Malga Monte Sole Chalet
Activity | Check the 8-Day tour in the Dolomites by Bike

Relax in the Bormio Thermal baths

The incredible mountain landscape of Bormio is mainly known for its endless ski slopes, but among locals also for the relaxing thermal baths.

The natural thermal springs are in the centre of the Alps and are a historical landmark of the area, more than just a thermal spa. Ideal for wellness treatments, you will be surrounded by the fantastic valleys of Stelvio National Park while bathing in the nine natural pools.

While exploring the Dolomites in Summer, you might enjoy a few days of pure relaxation and go for day trips to some of the oldest villages in the Alps.

Best Lakes Trentino - Lake of Trent - Lago di Trent

Go lake swimming at sunrise

Visit the Dolomites in summer; you can do activities that are impossible at other times of the year. We suggest you check a true hidden gem in the Dolomites for the ultimate experience and lifetime memories.

Take your swimsuit and go to Tret Alpine Lake, often called “Santa Maria Lake ”. It is an artificial water reservoir located near the popular tiny village of Tret in Trentino Alto Adige.

Imagine waking up early in the morning and hiking up to 1600 metres, surrounded by meadows and Dolomites. After struggling to the summit, the greatest part was a cool morning dip in the lake. A lovely wake-up call that will live on in our memories.

The lake is one of the Dolomite’s most kept secrets, and is reachable by car just until the parking lot. After parking the car, trek for about an hour and 350 metres up to the hiking trail no. 512. It’s worth noting that the lake is also known as Felixer Weiher on signs.

Chase waterfalls

Visiting the Dolomites in early June, you might experience the energy of the water. The snow melts and enlarges the streams, creating gorgeous waterfalls and pushing water into the gorges.

We visited Trentino in mid-June, and while exploring the “Lago dei Caprioli” we were amused by the many little waterfalls created by the melted snow coming into the valley from above, on top of the mountain.

Another great waterfall to chase is Val di Rabbi, in the middle of the Stelvio National Park. You can admire the Rio Ragaiolo waterfall from above, passing through the Tibetan Bridge for 100 metres and suspended 60 metres above the ground.

Indulge in local food

While exploring a new place; you must eat local. These are some of the best food you must try in the Dolomites:

Polenta (mashed corn)
Apfelstrudel (Apple Strudel)
Deer, Fallow deer or Roebuck
Speck (Spiced Prosciutto/ham)
Brot of Canderelli (Pasta dumpling filled with speck or similar cured ham served in a soup)
Tagliatelle al Tartufo (pasta larger than spaghetti, usually with meat and truffle sauce)
Also try local cheese and delicious meat product

Sip a glass of Trento Doc

You must pair your lunch or dinner with an amazing wine or spumante if you follow the menu ideas. Trento Doc is Trento’s answer to spumante. It’s not to be confused with the ordinary supermarket brut and dry wines.

Trento Doc is a premium sparkling wine produced exclusively in Trentino. The floral flavour is one-of-a-kind, perfect for an aperitif or a formal meal.

Hike the Dolomites

Summer in the Dolomites just means hiking; take the best chalet close to the paths and enjoy the walks. The most scenic of the many Dolomites Hiking Paths is the Via Ferrata to the Tre Cime di Lavaredo.

This is a renowned walking trail up the Dolomites; in recent years, many have associated it with the symbol of the Italian Alps. It is a mass of three peaks often referred to as “tre cime” or “Drei Zinnen” in German. Cima Grande is 2,999 metres above sea level, Cima Ovest is 2,973 metres, and Cima Piccola is 2,857 metres.

Once the boundary with Austria, the Tre Cime di Lavaredo is now only part of Italy’s South Tyrol, with a dual language-speaking divide. Even in winter, you may easily reach the summits by following local guides.

Best Hiking Paths in the Dolomites in Summer

Lake of Braies Hike
Lake Carezza Hike
Tre Cime di Lavaredo Hike
Col Raiser to Seceda
Val Fiscalina to Drei Zinner
Gran Cir Via Ferrata
Passo Gardena Trail

Walk through the Adamello-Brenta National Park

We’ve already covered the Adamello National Park in part, but it’s worth mentioning this beautiful natural location again.

We’re sure you’ve seen some images of the beautiful Dolomites, especially those taken from the natural reservoir. Tourists and photographers love the Brenta Dolomites and the Adamello glacier. The Brenta Dolomites picks ignite at sunset on a clear day, rendering the shadow colours crimson. This natural park covers 620.51 square kilometres and is Trentino’s largest protected area.

The highest peaks reach nearly 3500 metres, while the lowest is 477 metres. The Adamello Glacier is one of the biggest in Europe and can be observed all year.

Pass on a Tibetan bridge in the Dolomites

Within the National Park Adamello, a fantastic bridge crosses a magnificent and strong waterfall side by side. Ragaiolo suspension bridge is also known as the Tibetan Bridge.

It is a 100-metre-long rope bridge hung 60 metres above the Ragaiolo Falls. If you are terrified of heights, do not cross the bridge, even though it is safe and amazing. From the top of the bridge, you will feel some water splashes, which testify to the waterfall’s power.

Lake os Santa Giustina - Kayaking in the lake in Trentino

Go Kayaking

Thanks to the many lakes and the diverse and breathtaking landscape; the Dolomites are the perfect location for water activities. Going Kayaking in one of the many lakes is a must-do visit to the Dolomites in summer. We visited Trentino, taking a kayak on Santa Giustina Lake. This location lies in the middle of Val di Non, a region of Trentino famed for producing delicious apples.

The lake of Santa Giustina is a big artificial dam surrounded by meadows and vineyards. A guide will always be with you, making the activity safer and explaining the surrounding nature. The lake of Santa Giustina has a secret series of Canyons that will challenge you. It was one of the best activities up to the mountains, and we got some of the most badass photos of the Dolomites.

Location | Lake of Santa Giustina – Val di non
Tours | Fluvial Park Novella Santa Giustina Activities

rafting in Trentino - River Noce - Summer activities in Trentino

Rafting and extreme water activities

If you still have room for great adventures, consider going rafting on the Noce River.
Many streams will challenge you in a session that lasts about two hours. The photo above is about the Noce River in June, and as you can see, it was overflowing.

The rapid was quite difficult, as it was dangerous to do the activity, we had to postpone two days after, and it was still pretty rough and fun.
The rates are fairly reasonable compared to other sites we’ve visited, ranging from 20€ to higher depending on the season. The River Noce is one of the most interesting streams worldwide, part of the Championship circuit.

You can book in advance your rafting session, and some are perfect for families:
River Rafting for Families
Rafting Extreme
Rafting in the River (a group of 6)

Enjoy the sunrise in the Dolomites

Going swimming in a frozen alpine lake in summer on the Dolomites was one of the best things we did back in time. Enjoying the unique sunrise is totally on another level.

The Dolomites are undisputed on top of our list for the best sunset ever, and you will soon discover why. It is still vivid in our mind when the first sun rays gently kiss the mountain creating a perfect game of lights and shadows with uncertain colours from yellow to red.

Check out these 3 spots for morning lights on the Dolomites in summer:
Hotel Kirchenwirt | Tre cime di Lavaredo
Lake Braies
Hotel Luna Mondschein | Ortisei / Funes – Seceda

Yoga in a Museum

While exploring Trento for a conference, one of the activities was to explore a local museum from a different perspective.

We spent a morning exercising in the wonderful MUSE. The Museum of Science and Natural history of Trento is inspiring. The passion of the researcher, to make you comfortable learning while exercising is amusing. Even though the museum is open for regular visits, it often features interesting activities. Check out their schedule and full program.

Enjoy a Dolomites road trip

Among the many interesting road trip itineraries in Italy, the Dolomites Road are perfect for summertime. It’s worth mentioning that the Dolomites road trip itinerary is one of the most spectacular alpine scenery in Europe. There are many ways to enjoy and craft a bespoke itinerary, taking you through valleys and high mountains, and enjoying lakes, peaks, fauna and hidden paths.

If there is just one thing to do in Summer in the Dolomites this is definitely a road trip, better with a Van or RV. Experience a road trip through the Dolomites early in the summer, staring at the peak still with the snow cap, and streams full going downhill creating magnificent waterfalls.

Read more inspiring guides…

Where to stay in the dolomites

PLACES TO VISIT IN THE DOLOMITES

DOLOMITES: 7-DAY ITINERARY

lakes in the Dolomites + MAP

View of the Tre cime di Lavaredo — Tre cime di Lavaredo at sunset on the Dolomites in Summer

Be amused by the sunset on the Dolomites

As the sunrise on the Dolomites is spectacular, wait to see the sunset over the peaks. While exploring Trentino, we were taking a lot of photos, getting to know the landscape and taking pictures at every time of the day.

The Dolomites, the valleys and little villages have some of the most dramatic views we have experienced. Exploring the Dolomites in summer, take your time to wait for the sunset from an advantageous point, wait for the right time, and the perfect composition to have the best memories of your trip.

Admire the bell tower in the lake

Without a question, this is the most beautiful off-the-beaten-path lake in the Dolomites. One of the most intriguing places on our list is Resia Lake or Der Reschensee in German.

A tiny hamlet was flooded by this lake, with only the tower bell of the local underwater church visible today. This is a 6,6-kilometre man-made lake. As a result, Resia Lake is not only unique and beautiful but also a Dolomite hidden gem. Look at the photo if you don’t believe us.

LOCATION | Lago di Resia

Stargazing night in the Dolomites

If you, like us, are into photography, spending the summer in the Dolomites is the perfect occasion to go extra mile. Some parts of the Dolomites Region have less light pollution, making the nights extremely clear to watch the stars and get the perfect shot of the milky way.

Spend an amazing night hiking to the top spot of the location you are staying, better with a local guide and spend the overnight staring at the sky and catching the glimpses.

Best places to visit in the Dolomites in Summer

Lake Braies (Pragser Wildsee)
Lake Sorapis
Tra Cime di Lavaredo
Val di Funes
Alpe di Siusi
Val Gardena
Lake Carezza (Carezawildsee)
Cortina d’Ampezzo
Trento
Lake Tovel
Marmolada
Seiser Alm
Val di Fiemme
San Martino di Castrozza

Best Experiences in the Dolomites in Summer

Where to stay in the Dolomites in Summer

The Dolomites are a group of 26 mountain ranges in Northern Italy that cover three regions and five provinces. The three regions are the Veneto, Trentino Alto-Adige/Südtirol, and Friuli Venezia Giulia. The Dolomites are one of the largest alpine areas in Italy and Europe.

We suggest you select two or three villages and base yourself there. It’s easy to travel around the area, just not having to carry luggage everywhere.

Also, it is good not to drive at night, as road illumination is not everywhere, animals can cross the streets, and you will have less visibility at night.

Val di Sole and Val di Non

We found the most pleasant locations in the Dolomites in Val di Sole and Val di Non. The two areas are leading tourist spots in Trentino and are very popular for summer in Italy.

Thanks to the many activities, mainly taking advantage of waterfalls, rivers and generally the abundance of springs, it is nowadays used as a summer camp for professional football teams and other sports too. Check out the two suggested accommodations if you want to spend the best holidays in the Dolomites.

Monroc hotel

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apartments al noce

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Ortisei | Alpe di Siusi and Val Gardena

The Alpe di Siusi is a popular summer and winter destination and spans over 56 Km2 forming Europe’s most extensive high plateau. We are in South Tyrol, not far from Bolzano, and it is an excellent area to stay in the Dolomites in summer.

The most famous town to check out for accommodation in Ortisei is perfect for winter slopes and slow-paced summertime. Ortisei is midway between Alpe di Siusi and Val Gardena and offers one of the most dramatic landscapes in the whole region.

Val Gardena offers endless opportunities. Val Gardena has you covered from hiking to climbing (with easy and moderate paths for everyone) or just chilling and sipping a glass of wine. Check the best guides for your hikes suggested by local tourism.

Most beautiful place in the Dolomites

Where to stay in Val Gardena

SELVA DI VAL GARDENA | BOUTIQUE RETREAT

HOTEL MIRAVALLE

The hotel Miravalle is perfect for excursions in the Dolomites, with a beautiful pool to enjoy the sunshine. Appreciate the relaxing environment with excellent service a few steps away from the town. The hotel also offers an airport shuttle.

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Miravalle Hotel Val Gardena Dolomites background hotel in Italy

Hotel Miravalle Val Gardena - Dolomites, Italy

ORTISEI | SPA & HOTEL

ALPENHEIM CHARMING & SPA HOTEL

The best hotel in Ortisei with a panoramic view over the Dolomites.
Alpenheim Charming & Spa Hotel is a 5-minute walk to the city centre. The wellness area provides hydromassage pools, a relaxation space, massages and beauty therapies.

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Best day trips in Val Gardena

Full-Day Hike – Private Tour from Bolzano

Cortina d’Ampezzo

The already famous Cortina d’Ampezzo gained more exposure, getting the assignment to host the Olympic Games Milano-Cortina 2026. The location is breathless and offers some of the best resorts in Italy.

Most of the public transport will take you here from and to the main cities, check the direct shuttle between Venice Airport and Cortina d’Ampezzo for less than $20. Cortina d’Ampezzo is the perfect place to stay if you don’t want to rent a car and rely just on public transport, private hire and taxis.

Best places to stay in Cortina d’Ampezzo

Best place to stay in the Dolomites in Summer / Excellent without a car

Parc Hotel Victoria

This apartment is conveniently located in the Cortina d’Ampezzo town, close to attractions, restaurants and shops. This 4-star hotel offers a variety of amenities to enhance the quality and enjoyment of your stay.

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Auronzo di Cadore | Belluno Dolomites

Basing yourself in Auronzo di Cadore you will enjoy the foremost part of Veneto Region. The picturesque mountainous town is near Cortina and Comelico and offers little alpine lakes at a short distance and high standard accommodations in the Dolomites in summer.

The Alternative to Auronzo di Cadore is San Vito di Cadore. Located at 1011 metres above sea level, the little unknown town is just 11 kilometres from the popular Cortina d’Ampezzo. Perfect for winter in Italy, but an even better place to spend summer in Italy.

The gentle shape of the mountains covered with snow all year and offers some of the most challenging routes for climbing and hiking in the Dolomites.

Best places and towns to stay in Auronzo di Cadore and nearby

B&B La Coa

B&B La Coa is the perfect location for a quick escape in the Dolomites in Summer. The intimate accommodation offers all you need for the best holidays in Italy. Enjoy the area close to the town centre and the many amenities of a little community.