Where to stay in the Dolomites in summer and winter – BEST HOTELS & TOWNS

Deciding where to stay in the Dolomites is not an easy task, this is quite a sizeable area of Northern Italy.

There are so many beautiful alpine towns, skiing resorts and summer destinations that offer something for every type of traveller.

In this guide, I have narrowed down my 10 best places to stay and visit in the Dolomites. I have compared all of them in two quick and easy-to-read tables, one for summer and one for winter, being these destinations totally different in the two seasons.

But let’s dive into it

Best places to stay in the Dolomites – Key Points

These 10 destinations are very different in summer and winter, offering distinct activities, opportunities and costs too.

For this reason, I have decided to compare the best places to visit in the Dolomites based on the season. And, to save you time, I have created the two tables below that compare the towns based on a multitude of factors (season-related).

You can click on the area/town name to read a full description with all the pros, cons and activities, besides a couple of suggested hotels.

Swipe left or right on the mobile to see the entire table. The rating is from 1 to 5. Brunico and Bolzano, are the only two destinations accessible by train. The others need a mix of train and bus or you just rent a car.

Area	Quality of Ski Runs	Km of slopes	Day Ticket	Week Ticket	Accessibility	Cost	Reliability of Snow	Family-Friendliness
Cortina d’Ampezzo	4/5 – Wide variety	120km	€58	€288	3/5 – Accessible by train+bus	2/5 – On the pricey side	3/5 – Can be hit or miss	3/5 – Oriented towards adults
Alta Badia	4/5 – Excellent for beginners, less for experts	130km	€60	€299	3/5 – Slightly remote	3/5 – Mid-range for the region	4/5 – Usually reliable	5/5 – Excellent facilities and activities for kids
San Martino di Castrozza	3/5 – Limited variety, more for intermediates	60km	€46	€230	3/5 – Somewhat remote, tricky roads	5/5 – More affordable than most	3/5 – Can be hit or miss	3/5 – Some activities, but not a main focus
Ortisei	5/5 – Excellent variety, part of Dolomiti Superski	175km	€60	€299	3/5 – Good roads, busy at peak times	3/5 – Competitive but not cheap	4/5 – Reliable conditions	4/5 – Good facilities for children
Arabba	4/5 – Excellent for experts, less for beginners	122km	€55	€293	2/5 – Remote and challenging roads	4/5 – Mid-range	5/5 – Excellent	2/5 – Limited facilities for children
Brunico	3/5 – Good runs at Plan de Corones, but 7km away	119km	€59	€313	5/5 – Accessible by train	4/5 – Fair pricing for a city	4/5 – Usually reliable	3/5 – Urban activities, ski school at Plan de Corones
Canazei	5/5 – Excellent variety, part of Dolomiti Superski	210km	€58	€308	3/5 – Good roads	3/5 – Fair for the area, but still not cheap	4/5 – Usually reliable	4/5 – Good facilities for children, could offer more activities
Selva di Val Gardena	4/5 – Diverse, part of Dolomiti Superski	175km	€60	€299	3/5 – Good roads but busy in peak season	3/5 – Fair pricing but not the cheapest	4/5 – Reliable for the most part	3/5 – Decent for kids but more adult-centric
Corvara in Badia	3/5 – Limited variety but good quality	130km	€59	€313	3/5 – Somewhat remote, can be tricky in winter	2/5 – Tends to be on the pricey side	3/5 – Fairly reliable	3/5 – Some activities for kids, could do better
Bolzano	1/5 – Must drive to nearby resorts	N/A	N/A	N/A	5/5 – Excellent roads, regular train and bus services	4/5 – City pricing	1/5 Need to drive to the resort	2/5 – Urban activities

I recommend checking the Dolomiti Superski website if you visit the Dolomites in winter. You will find resort maps and the possibility to buy special day/week tickets covering multiple areas, for a total of 1,200km of slopes.

In summer, things are different and usually, the cost of accommodation is lower too.

Area	Outdoor Activities	Accessible Hiking Trails	Level of Walk	Scenic Beauty	Accessibility (Train/Bus)	Family-Friendliness	Cost	Character of Town
Cortina d’Ampezzo	4/5 – Wide variety but can be busy	20+	Moderate to Challenging	5/5 – Absolutely stunning	3/5 – Accessible by train+bus	4/5 – Plenty of activities	2/5 – Pricey	Alpine chic, stylish
Alta Badia	5/5 – Excellent variety	30+	Easy to Challenging	5/5 – Incredible views	3/5 – Slightly remote	4/5 – Plenty of activities	4/5 – Mid-range	Traditional, welcoming
San Martino di Castrozza	4/5 – Good range	25+	Moderate to Challenging	5/5 – Beautiful scenery	3/5 – A bit remote, but worth the trip	3/5 – Limited activities	5/5 – More affordable than others	Cosy, alpine charm
Ortisei	5/5 – Excellent range	35+	Moderate to Challenging	5/5 – Spectacular Dolomite views	4/5 – Good access but can be busy in summer	4/5 – Good range of family activities	3/5 – Slightly pricey but good value for the area	Lively, family-friendly
Arabba	4/5 – Good for outdoor enthusiasts, limited otherwise	15+	Moderate	4/5 – Impressive mountain landscapes	2/5 – Remote and more difficult to access	2/5 – Limited family activities	4/5 – Good value for adventurers	Quiet, traditional
Brunico	3/5 – Limited range of activities in town	20+	Easy to Moderate	4/5 – Lovely urban and natural beauty	5/5 – Excellent roads and public transport	3/5 – Urban activities	4/5 – well priced for the region	Vibrant, urban
Canazei	5/5 – Excellent range of activities	30+	Easy to Challenging	5/5 – Beautiful mountain views	4/5 – Good access, traffic in peak season	5/5 – Great for families with a range of activities	3/5 – Fairly priced for the region	Friendly, alpine vibe
Selva di Val Gardena	5/5 – Top hiking, biking, and climbing	25+	Moderate to Challenging	5/5 – Gorgeous Dolomite views	4/5 – Easy to access but busy in summer	4/5 – Many family-friendly hiking and biking trails	3/5 – Fairly priced for the region	Rustic, outdoor-centric
Corvara in Badia	4/5 – Good range of activities	25+	Moderate	5/5 – Stunning natural beauty	3/5 – Somewhat remote	3/5 – Some activities for kids	3/5 – Fairly priced for the region	Tranquil, classic
Bolzano	2/5 – City-based activities	15+	Easy to Moderate	4/5 – Mix of city and surrounding nature	5/5 – Excellent accessibility	4/5 – City-based activities	3/5 – City pricing	Historic, urban

I have added a chapter at the end of this guide where I talk more about the accessibility of the destinations. In short, only Brunico and Bolzano have a train station. The other destinations can be accessed with a mix of train and bus transportation, which can be quite time-consuming.

When I plan to visit the Dolomites in winter I do not mind the hassle of public transportation but it’s worth saying that I usually waste the first and last day of the trip on commuting, which is not ideal. It works for a minimum stay of 6-7 days

I have often hired a car which saved me a ton of time, and honestly, it’s a must in summer because you will experience so much more of the Dolomites. There is just no comparison. In winter the cars have snow tyres and you will be able to experience different alpine areas, not just one.

Another benefit of hiring a car is that you can stop for a couple of days on Garda Lake, in beautiful towns like Bardolino or Malcesine, two of the best towns to stay in Lake Garda.

My 3 best hotels in the Dolomites

Cortina d’Ampezzo – The lux destination for couples

Cortina d’Ampezzo is often called the “Queen of the Dolomites“. Why? Because it is a captivating blend of natural beauty, high-end luxury, and Italian charm.

Known for its winter sports and scenic beauty, it hosted the Winter Olympics in 1956 and it will once again in 2026 together with Livigno, another of my favourite places to stay in the Italian Alps, confirming its position as a hotspot for international winter competitions.

Cortina d’Ampezzo is not just for the adventurous; it also caters to those seeking a relaxing getaway with its elegant boutiques, cosy cafés, and world-class restaurants.

At the heart of the town is the Corso Italia, a pedestrian-friendly street lined with shops selling Italian fashion, traditional crafts, and local produce. A stroll here is a perfect way to soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Cortina.

When it comes to outdoor activities, Cortina d’Ampezzo is second to none. Skiers and snowboarders are spoilt for choice with multiple areas like Tofana and Faloria.

There are also plenty of other winter activities. Snowshoeing is a must through the beautiful mountain, sledging is getting more and more popular and finally ice skating is unmissable.

Cortina is equally appealing during summer. The surrounding Dolomites provide excellent hiking and biking opportunities. You may also want to explore the Cortina Adventure Park, which offers treetop trails and zip lines.

Hiking around the Tre Cime di Lavaredo is another must. This is a UNESCO site famous for its three alpine cliffs.

Cortina d’Ampezzo offers any type of culinary scene. You can dine in style at Al Camin, an exquisite mountain restaurant offering panoramic views and delicious local cuisine. Ristorante Tivoli is another gourmet destination serving innovative dishes. For a more casual dining experience, head to Trattoria Vienna or enjoy sweet treats at Pasticceria Alverà.

It all sounds so good, isn’t it? Well, the beautiful time you can have in Cortina will not come cheap, in fact, this is probably the most expensive town in the Dolomites. Also, avoid a visit around Christmas time. It can get really busy with all the Italian celebrities, politicians and wanna-be, raising prices to a newer and higher level.

Alta Badia – outstanding skiing

Alta Badia, nestled in the heart of the Dolomites, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and food lovers. I have enjoyed so much skiing there, it is most definitely one of the best winter resorts in Italy. And in summer there are so many hiking trails to enjoy.

The Sella Ronda, where you can experience never-ending slopes, provides an unforgettable experience, while the Pralongià Plateau is perfect for summer hikes in the Dolomites.

The region’s Ladin culture, one of the three official cultures in South Tyrol, is another highlight. You can explore it further at the Museum Ladin and in the local cuisine. Restaurants like Stüa dl l’Ai and La Siriola, renowned for their innovative dishes based on traditional Ladin recipes, are a must-try.

Alta Badia also boasts several picturesque villages, each with its unique charm. And in this respect renting a car in Italy will help you to enjoy some of them (public transportation is not really an option in winter)

The two major drawbacks of Alta Badia are the lack of nightlife (much quieter compared to other areas) and the limited options for winter sports activities once you have finished on the slopes

San Martino di Castrozza – Value for money

San Martino di Castrozza, a quaint town located at the eastern end of Trentino, offers a slice of alpine paradise in the Dolomites. Nestled between the Pale di San Martino range and the Paneveggio forest, the town provides a stunning backdrop no matter where you look.

In winter, San Martino di Castrozza transforms into a top-notch skiing destination. The area offers a range of slopes for all levels, from beginners to experts.

Come summer, hiking is the name of the game. Trails abound in the Paneveggio Pale di San Martino Nature Park, giving you countless opportunities to explore the stunning landscape. Climbing Tognola Peak is also a popular activity, especially for the panoramic view at the top.

San Martino di Castrozza is also one of the best areas to stay in Dolomites for families. You will find adventure parks and mini-golf, besides easy slopes for the little ones to start skiing, maybe engaging one of the many kid schools.

San Martino di Castrozza is not anymore a hidden gem of the Dolomites, in fact, it can be very busy in peak season, both winter (Christmas and Eastern weeks) and summer (July and August).

And while there are some good dining options, they are somewhat limited compared to larger towns. This means that you should book your table well in advance.

Ortisei – Dolomites in summer for hiking & biking

Ortisei, located in Val Gardena, sits at the foot of the Alpe di Siusi and is surrounded by stunning mountain ranges, offering a beautiful backdrop that changes with the seasons.

You want to stay in Ortisei in winter because it is the gateway to the Dolomiti Superski, one of the largest mountain areas in the world. You will find slopes of any type and length that are perfect for any level.

But the fun doesn’t stop when the snow melts. Come summer, the mountains transform into a hiking and biking paradise. The Resciesa Funicular, for instance, takes you up to a high plateau, offering numerous walking trails with spectacular views.

Ortisei also boasts a pedestrian-friendly town centre, where charming pastel-coloured houses, boutiques, and cafes line the streets. The Parish Church of Urtijëi and the Museum Gherdëina are worth checking out if you’re interested in the local art and history.

On the dining front, Ortisei offers a good mix of traditional Tyrolean cuisine and Italian favourites. Tobia’s and Restaurant Stua Catores are highly recommended, and for a laid-back coffee break or a sweet treat, head to Cafe Val d’Anna.

However, keep in mind that Ortisei, with its upscale appeal, can be more expensive compared to other towns in the Dolomites. Also, the town is more of a quiet, family-friendly destination rather than a party hub.

Arabba – Best area of the Dolomites on a budget

Arabba is a small, serene village nestled at the foot of the Sella massif and the Porta Vescovo mountain, offering some of the most economical hotels and apartments in the Dolomites, great if your budget is somehow very limited.

Arabba is also one of the best places in winter because it’s part of the Dolomiti Superski area and has a direct connection to the Sella Ronda circuit. The slopes here are generally steeper and more challenging.

The resort also tends to be less busy than other destinations in this post. This means that, outside of the peak time (Christmas and Eastern) you will share the slopes with not as many people.

Once summer comes around, Arabba becomes one of the best towns for hikers and mountain bikers. You will be totally impressed by the rugged peaks, the scenic trails, and the panoramic views. You can also try paragliding with Arabba Fly if you’re up for a thrill, or you can visit the Museo Ladino Fodom for a dose of history.

While Arabba excels in providing outdoor adventures, it’s a quiet place with limited shopping and dining options and basically no nightlife to talk about. This town is more of an action-by-day and relax-by-night destination.

Brunico – Great for history and culture

Brunico, also known as Bruneck, is a charming town nestled in the Puster Valley that perfectly marries the modern and medieval eras. One of the highlights of Brunico is undoubtedly its magnificent castle.

Perched on a hill overlooking the town, Brunico Castle is home to one of the Messner Mountain Museums. Founded by renowned mountaineer Reinhold Messner, the museum provides an insightful look into the culture and history of mountain peoples worldwide.

Not too far away from the town, the Folklore Museum Dietenheim invites you to dive into South Tyrolean traditions and rural life.

Brunico won’t disappoint you if you are travelling with kids. A visit to Kronplatz, not just a winter sports paradise, but also a haven of family-friendly activities, is a must. In summer, it offers hiking, mountain biking and the exciting Kron Arc Adventure, while in winter, it transforms into a top-notch Alpine resort.

Brunico’s old town, a pedestrian zone, is an ideal place for leisurely strolls. It’s lined with colourful townhouses, boutique shops, and plenty of dining options.

Whether you’re in the mood for pizza at Osteria Pizzeria No. 1, traditional Tyrolean dishes at Restaurant Andreas Hofer, or simply want to enjoy a cup of coffee at Cafe Messner, there’s something for everyone.

Now, on the cons side, if you’re looking for hardcore outdoor adventures, Brunico might not hit the mark as other places in the Italian Dolomites do. And yes, it can get a bit crowded during peak seasons.

Canazei – The place to be for adventure lovers

Nestled in the heart of the Dolomites, Canazei is a paradise for adventure lovers and winter sports enthusiasts. Known for its hiking and skiing, this small town offers an incredible outdoor experience.

In summer, the town is an excellent base for exploring the Dolomites. Hiking trails of any level abound, leading you to beautiful spots such as the Pordoi Pass and the Marmolada, the highest peak in the Dolomites.

For winter sports, Canazei is an absolute treat. The town is part of the Sella Ronda circuit, a carousel of interconnected slopes that loops around the Sella massif. The Canazei-Belvedere area boasts well-groomed slopes suitable for all levels.

And after a day of sliding down the slopes, the town’s vibrant apres-ski scene starts. Local bars and pubs become lively hubs where you can share your day’s adventures over a pint or two.

When it comes to dining, Canazei doesn’t disappoint. Whether it’s the traditional Italian cuisine at El Pael Canazei, the creative dishes at Restaurant La Zinna, or a sweet treat from Pasticceria Marlene.

On the flip side, Canazei might get pretty crowded during peak seasons. And this is probably the biggest drawback

Selva di Val Gardena & Alpe di Siusi – Best for families

You want to stay in Val Gardena if you are planning a few days of just skiing and relaxing with a glass of wine in the evening. Nestled in the Gardena Valley, Selva boasts a prime position on the Sella Ronda circuit, offering a good selection of accommodations next to the lifts. So easygoing!

Summers in Selva offer a different kind of beauty. The Puez-Geisler Nature Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, opens up for hiking and mountain biking, offering spectacular views of this part of the Dolomites.

While not as adrenaline-pumping as winter sports, the park’s beautiful trails and serene atmosphere make it a great summer destination.

On the cons side. The town’s nightlife is not great, in fact, it is very limited and you might be disappointed. Plus, accommodation and amenities can be expensive during peak seasons.

Corvara in Badia – Best winter trip to the Dolomites

Corvara in Badia is another town renowned for its winter and summer sports.

During winter, Corvara serves as an entry point to the Dolomiti Superski, one of the world’s largest ski areas, and is connected to the Sella Ronda circuit. For non-skiers, there’s plenty of winter fun to be had too. From snowshoeing to ice skating.

When summer comes, Corvara turns into an outdoor playground offering endless opportunities for hiking, biking, and climbing. The trails here cater to all, whether you’re a casual hiker or a seasoned mountaineer.

The town is dotted with hiking trails that lead you to panoramic viewpoints, through lovely forests, and past picturesque alpine lakes.

Corvara in Badia has also a pretty town centre with shops selling local crafts and produce, perfect for picking up souvenirs.

On the flip side, do not expect much from the nightlife scene, this is not a winter resort to be out till the early hours of the morning. The town itself can get also quite busy in the peak winter season, around the new year eve.

Bolzano – For city lovers

A city with a unique blend of Italian and Austrian cultures, Bolzano (Bozen) offers a different kind of Dolomites experience. Its urban landscape is a refreshing contrast to the typical alpine setting, yet it retains a touch of mountain charm with the Dolomites serving as a stunning backdrop.

In the city, you can visit the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology where Ötzi the Iceman, a mummy from the Copper Age, resides. For art enthusiasts, the medieval Runkelstein Castle is a must-see with its well-preserved frescoes.

During the festive season, the Bolzano Christmas Market, one of the largest in Italy, transforms Piazza Walther into a magical wonderland. It’s a great attraction beloved by families and couples alike. A must-visit in any Dolomites itinerary around December time.

When it comes to food, Bolzano presents a culinary journey that reflects its dual heritage. Batzen Bräu serves excellent craft beers and traditional South Tyrolean dishes, while Restaurant Laurin is known for its exquisite Italian and international cuisine.

Hopfen & Co. is a traditional beer house that’s popular among locals, and Wirthaus Vögele offers a cosy atmosphere to enjoy Tyrolean’s specialities.

While Bolzano may not have the typical alpine atmosphere, it doesn’t lack outdoor activities. There are many hiking and cycling trails that start from the city, and during winter, it’s just a short drive to several ski resorts.

Accessibility to the Dolomites

Only two destinations, Brunico and Bolzano, are reachable by train. The others require a bus or taxi ride from the nearest train station, which can be quite time-consuming. Some hotels may organise the last leg for you but it will not be included in the room price.

Here’s a quick overview:

1. Cortina d’Ampezzo: No direct train. The nearest train stations are in Calalzo di Cadore and Dobbiaco. From there, you can take a bus to Cortina.
2. Alta Badia: No direct train. The closest train stations are Brunico (Bruneck), Bressanone (Brixen), Bolzano (Bozen), and Fortezza (Franzensfeste). From these stations, buses run to Alta Badia.
3. San Martino di Castrozza: Not directly accessible by train. The nearest railway station is Feltre, from which you can take a bus to San Martino di Castrozza.
4. Ortisei: No direct train. The nearest station is in Bressanone (Brixen) or Bolzano (Bozen), from where you can take a bus.
5. Arabba: No direct train service. The nearest train stations are Belluno and Brunico, from where buses are available to Arabba.
6. Brunico (Bruneck): Direct train service is available to Brunico. It’s on the Puster Valley train line that connects Fortezza (Franzensfeste) with Lienz in East Tyrol, Austria.
7. Canazei: No direct train. The nearest railway stations are Trento, Bolzano, and Ora, from where you can take a bus.
8. Selva di Val Gardena: No direct train. The nearest station is in Bolzano, from where you can take a bus.
9. Corvara in Badia: No direct train. The closest train stations are Brunico, Bressanone, Bolzano, and Fortezza. From these stations, buses run to Corvara.
10. Bolzano: This city is the best connected of all with trains connecting major Italian cities like Rome, Venice, and Verona, as well as Austrian and international destinations.

Always check the Trenitalia website for the latest time schedule and prices.

If you’re planning to fly to the Dolomites, the closest international airports are Verona and Venice, which is about 160km away. Munich in Germany works also very well. Treviso and Innsbruck in Austria have also smaller airports, served by low-cost airlines too.

Budget a trip of around 5-6 hours from the airport to any of these towns, give or take, using public transportation. Save half that time if you rent a vehicle, besides being more practical and what a view along the drive too!