Where to Stay in the Dolomites: Best Areas & Hotels for Every Traveler

Choosing where to stay in the Dolomites can feel confusing at first. The region isn’t a single destination but a collection of valleys, alpine towns, and mountain landscapes spread across northeastern Italy. Where you base yourself will shape how much you can see, how easily you reach hiking trails or ski lifts, and how relaxed your overall experience feels.

The right location depends on your priorities — whether you’re planning scenic hikes, winter skiing, photography stops, or simply soaking in dramatic alpine views. During my time in the Dolomites, I quickly realized that choosing the right base made the trip far more enjoyable, reducing daily travel time and allowing more flexibility when the weather shifted in the mountains.

In this guide, you’ll discover the best areas to stay in the Dolomites, what makes each location unique, and how to choose the one that best fits your travel style.

Why Choosing the Right Base Matters

When I planned my first trip to the Dolomites, I assumed the valleys were all close enough that it didn’t really matter where I stayed. On the map, everything looked just minutes apart. In reality, the mountains tell a different story.

The Dolomites are divided by dramatic passes, winding roads, and steep terrain. A destination that looks 20 km away can easily take an hour to reach. After one long day of driving switchbacks just to reach a sunset viewpoint, I quickly realized that choosing the best base in the Dolomites isn’t just a detail — it shapes your entire experience.

Staying in the right valley means:

• less time driving mountain roads
• easier access to hikes and lifts
• flexibility if the weather changes
• more time enjoying the scenery

Constantly changing hotels may seem efficient, but it often leads to packing fatigue and lost time. One well-chosen base allows you to explore freely while keeping the trip relaxed — one of the most valuable Dolomites travel tips I learned firsthand.

The goal isn’t to see everything. It’s to experience the mountains at a slower pace, with a base that makes each day easier and more enjoyable.

Best Areas to Stay in the Dolomites

Choosing where to stay in the Dolomites isn’t about finding one central town — it’s about choosing the valley that matches how you want to experience the mountains. Each area offers a different rhythm: some are lively resort towns with lift access and stylish resorts, while others are peaceful alpine villages surrounded by pastures and dramatic peaks.

If you’re still planning your trip and getting familiar with the region, our complete Dolomites Travel Guide helps you understand the landscape, seasons, and travel logistics before choosing your base.

On my first visit, I tried to plan days across multiple valleys and quickly realized the distances were more demanding than they appeared. Once I settled into the right base, everything became easier — hikes started closer, scenic drives felt relaxed, and I spent more time enjoying the landscape instead of navigating it.

What Is the Best Area to Stay in the Dolomites?

Cortina d’Ampezzo is the best overall area to stay in the Dolomites for most travelers. It offers iconic mountain scenery, excellent restaurants, modern infrastructure, and easy access to scenic drives, hiking areas, and ski resorts — making it an ideal base for a first visit.

If your priorities differ:

• Val Gardena → best for hiking and central access
• Alta Badia → best for peaceful scenery and food culture
• Alta Pusteria / Lago di Braies → best for quiet nature and romantic landscapes

Below are the best areas to stay in the Dolomites, each suited to different travel styles, seasons, and priorities.

Cortina d’Ampezzo – Luxury & Iconic Views

Best for: first-time visitors, iconic landscapes, skiing, scenic drives

If it’s your first time in the Dolomites, Cortina d’Ampezzo is one of the easiest places to fall in love with the region. Set beneath dramatic peaks that rise straight above town, Cortina blends alpine beauty with a glamorous resort atmosphere that feels both stylish and relaxed.

When I stayed here, what surprised me most was how convenient everything felt. After a morning hike, I could stroll into town for an espresso, browse boutique shops, and finish the evening with a memorable dinner — all without losing that “in the mountains” feeling.

Why stay here

• glamorous alpine atmosphere with historic charm
• excellent restaurants, wine bars, and stylish cafés
• easy access to Tre Cime di Lavaredo and scenic mountain passes
• a great base if you plan to explore the region by car

Cortina works especially well for scenic drives. Some of the Dolomites’ most spectacular roads — including routes toward Passo Falzarego, Passo Giau, and the Tre Cime area — are within easy reach, making it ideal for travelers who want to combine short hikes with unforgettable viewpoints.

Atmosphere
Lively and elegant, Cortina feels like a true alpine resort town. It’s more polished than many Dolomite villages, yet still relaxed enough to enjoy slow evenings and mountain sunsets.

Good to know

• Prices peak during ski season and summer holidays
• Booking early is essential in high season

If you want a deeper look at neighborhoods and hotel options, see our detailed Cortina accommodation guide.

Val Gardena – Perfect for Hiking Access (Ortisei • Santa Cristina • Selva)

Best for: hiking convenience, central positioning, alpine charm

I remember stepping off the lift at Seceda early one morning and feeling like I had walked into a postcard — rolling green ridges, sharp limestone peaks, and trails stretching in every direction. Staying in Val Gardena made moments like this effortless. Instead of long drives before sunrise, I could reach some of the most spectacular viewpoints in the Dolomites within minutes.

Val Gardena is often considered the best Dolomites hiking base, thanks to its lift systems and well-marked trails that connect high alpine meadows, panoramic ridgelines, and traditional mountain huts. Whether you stay in Ortisei, Santa Cristina, or Selva, you’re positioned in the heart of the range with outstanding access to iconic landscapes.

Why stay here

• lift access to Seceda and Alpe di Siusi
• one of the most organized trail networks in the region
• central location for exploring multiple valleys
• excellent infrastructure for hikers and outdoor travelers

One of the biggest advantages of staying here is the ability to start hikes directly from town lifts, eliminating long approaches and making high-altitude routes more accessible.

Atmosphere
Val Gardena blends traditional Tyrolean alpine culture with modern comfort. Wooden chalets, flower-filled balconies, and mountain pastures create a warm, authentic atmosphere that feels peaceful yet welcoming.

It’s also helpful to consider the seasonal rhythm and village layout when choosing where to stay. Summer is ideal for hiking, when alpine meadows are lush, and lifts provide easy access to high-altitude trails, while winter transforms the valley into a major ski hub connected to the Dolomiti Superski area.

Selva offers the most immediate lift access and convenience for early starts, whereas Ortisei provides a charming village atmosphere with shops, cafés, and a more relaxed alpine feel.

Alta Badia – Quiet, Scenic & Culinary

Best for: scenery, relaxation, food culture

Alta Badia feels different from the moment you arrive. The pace slows, the villages grow quieter, and the dramatic peaks seem to rise gently from wide alpine meadows instead of towering directly overhead. After the busier energy of larger resort towns, staying here felt like stepping into a calmer rhythm of mountain life.

What makes the Alta Badia villages special is their balance of scenery and culture. Wooden farmhouses sit beneath massive rock faces, church spires punctuate open valleys, and traditional Ladin heritage is still part of daily life. It’s also one of the best places in the Dolomites to experience South Tyrolean cuisine, where alpine ingredients meet refined Italian flavors.

Why stay here

• peaceful villages surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery
• exceptional South Tyrolean food and welcoming mountain huts
• less crowded than major resort areas
• ideal atmosphere for relaxation and photography

The atmosphere is refined and tranquil, with an understated elegance that prioritizes comfort, wellness, and alpine tradition over resort-style energy. It’s a wonderful base for travelers who want to pair mountain scenery with excellent food, quiet evenings, and a deeper sense of place.

Lago di Braies & Alta Pusteria – Scenic & Romantic

Best for: lakeside scenery, tranquil surroundings, photography

I arrived at Lago di Braies just after sunrise, when the lake was still, and a thin layer of mist hovered above the water. The mountains reflected perfectly on the surface, and for a few quiet moments, the only sound was the gentle splash of a wooden rowboat cutting across the lake. Staying nearby allowed me to experience this peaceful side of the Dolomites before the day visitors arrived — something that completely changed how I experienced the area.

The villages of Alta Pusteria offer a slower, more intimate connection with the mountains. Traditional homes, open pastures, and quiet walking paths create a peaceful setting that feels far removed from busy resort towns. This area is ideal if you’re drawn to scenery, photography, and relaxed alpine evenings.

Why stay here

• proximity to Lago di Braies and its iconic alpine scenery
• convenient access to the Tre Cime di Lavaredo region
• peaceful villages and uncrowded surroundings
• ideal setting for romantic stays and nature-focused trips

Morning and evening are when this area feels most magical, with soft light, still waters, and a sense of calm that’s hard to find in busier destinations.

If you plan to explore multiple valleys during your stay, this area can also work well as a base when traveling by car, offering access to scenic routes and nearby mountain passes. Before setting out, it’s helpful to review a few tips for driving in Italy to feel confident navigating mountain roads and local regulations.

Where to Stay in the Dolomites for Hiking

If hiking is your main reason for visiting, choosing the right base can make the difference between long morning drives and stepping directly onto the trail. I learned this quickly after one early trip when I stayed outside the main hiking areas and spent more time navigating mountain roads than actually walking in them. On my next visit, basing myself closer to lift access completely changed the experience — the trails began minutes from my door, and I could stay out longer without worrying about the return drive.

For hikers, the goal is simple: easy access to high-altitude terrain, well-marked routes, and lift systems that open the mountains without exhausting climbs.

Best areas for hiking

Val Gardena: One of the best choices thanks to its lift network and excellent trail system. With direct Seceda hiking access, you can reach panoramic ridgelines, alpine meadows, and mountain huts within minutes.

Alta Badia: Ideal for scenic hiking at a slower pace. Wide valleys, gentle meadows, and dramatic backdrops make it perfect for photography and relaxed alpine walks.

Staying in these areas allows you to maximize time on the trails while minimizing logistics — a key advantage when weather shifts quickly, and you want flexibility in planning your day.

Many hikes begin directly from lift stations or village edges, making high-elevation routes accessible even for moderate hikers while still delivering the dramatic scenery the Dolomites are known for.

Best Areas for Via Ferrata in the Dolomites

Via ferrata — meaning “iron path” in Italian — are protected mountain routes equipped with steel cables and ladders that help hikers safely cross steep rock sections. With proper gear, they allow non-climbers to experience dramatic vertical terrain without technical climbing skills.

They’re ideal for adventurous hikers looking to add a thrilling challenge to their Dolomites trip, with routes ranging from beginner-friendly to highly exposed.

The Dolomites are one of the world’s top destinations for via ferrata, and staying near the right areas makes early starts and flexible planning much easier.

Top bases for via ferrata access

Cortina d’Ampezzo: One of the most iconic hubs, featuring historic World War I routes and dramatic climbs around the Tofane massif.
Alta Badia: Offers scenic ferratas with breathtaking panoramas and access to classic routes around the Sella Group.
Val Gardena: Ideal for climbers seeking high-altitude routes near the Sella and Sassolungo formations.

For route difficulty, gear tips, and safety guidance, see our detailed guide to via ferrata routes.

Where to Stay in the Dolomites for Skiing

Winter transforms the Dolomites into one of Europe’s most spectacular ski destinations. I still remember my first morning on the slopes — the sun lighting up pale limestone peaks while perfectly groomed runs wound through silent forests and open alpine bowls. What makes skiing here special isn’t just the terrain, but the scenery that surrounds every descent.

Choosing the right base gives you direct access to lifts, efficient connections, and the freedom to explore multiple ski areas without long transfers. The Dolomiti Superski network links resorts across the region, creating one of the largest ski systems in the world.

Is Cortina a Good Base for Skiing in the Dolomites?

Yes — Cortina d’Ampezzo is one of the best ski bases in the Dolomites, especially for travelers seeking scenic slopes, modern lift infrastructure, and a classic alpine resort atmosphere. The area offers well-groomed runs, breathtaking mountain views, and excellent winter facilities.

While it isn’t directly on the Sellaronda circuit, Cortina provides access to the wider Dolomiti Superski network and connects easily to nearby ski areas, making it a strong choice for both intermediate skiers and winter travelers prioritizing comfort and scenery.

Best areas for skiing

Cortina d’Ampezzo
A historic winter resort known for scenic slopes and excellent infrastructure. Cortina offers a refined alpine experience with varied terrain and stunning mountain views, making it ideal if you enjoy elegant surroundings after a day on the slopes. Runs here are known for their dramatic mountain backdrops and excellent grooming, while the town offers stylish après-ski, boutiques, and standout dining.

Val Gardena: One of the most connected ski areas in the Dolomites, with seamless access to the Dolomiti Superski circuit and the famous Sellaronda route, allows you to ski across multiple valleys in a single day, with varied terrain suitable for different skill levels.

Staying in either area means stepping into a world-class ski network where dramatic Dolomites peaks, sunlit plateaus, and perfectly maintained pistes define the experience.

If you’re planning a winter trip, our complete guide to Dolomites ski resorts helps you compare terrain, accessibility, and the best bases for your skill level.

Best Luxury Hotels in the Dolomites

After long days on mountain trails or ski slopes, returning to a warm spa, panoramic sauna, and a room overlooking the peaks feels like part of the Dolomites experience itself. Luxury stays here aren’t about flashy excess — they focus on alpine design, wellness traditions, and immersive mountain views that help you slow down and recover.

Many high-end properties blend natural wood, stone, and glass to frame the surrounding landscape, while extensive wellness areas, outdoor heated pools, and gourmet dining elevate the stay beyond simple accommodation.

Top luxury stays to consider

Hotel La Perla (Alta Badia): An elegant alpine retreat known for its exceptional hospitality, refined interiors, and outstanding South Tyrolean cuisine.
Rosa Alpina (San Cassiano, Alta Badia): A legendary mountain hotel offering timeless alpine luxury, a world-class spa, and Michelin-starred dining.
Rosapetra Spa Resort (Cortina d’Ampezzo): A refined alpine retreat offering contemporary mountain design, panoramic Tofane views, and a serene spa ideal for relaxation after a day in the mountains.
Adler Spa Resort Dolomiti (Ortisei, Val Gardena): A wellness-focused resort featuring expansive spa facilities, thermal pools, and serene alpine surroundings.

Luxury hotels in the Dolomites often include half-board options, wellness programs, and guided outdoor experiences, making them ideal if you want comfort, relaxation, and scenery seamlessly combined.

Best Budget-Friendly Stays in the Dolomites

Traveling in the Dolomites doesn’t have to mean luxury resorts and spa retreats. On one of my trips, I stayed in a small family-run guesthouse with a wooden balcony overlooking the peaks — simple, quiet, and unforgettable. The mornings were filled with fresh mountain air and homemade breakfast, and the slower pace made the experience feel even more authentic.

Because many small alpine guesthouses and pensions change availability seasonally, choosing the right area is often more helpful than focusing on specific hotel names. Smaller villages and locally run stays can offer excellent value while still delivering the dramatic scenery the region is known for.

Smart ways to save

• Stay in guesthouses and family-run pensions
• Look for accommodations in smaller alpine villages
• Travel in late June or September for better rates
• Consider half-board options to save on dining

Great areas for budget-friendly stays

Alta Pusteria: Offers peaceful surroundings and better value accommodations near iconic scenery.
Val Gardena (outside peak season): Ortisei and Santa Cristina provide good value in shoulder seasons while keeping excellent trail access.
Alta Badia smaller villages: Staying just outside main hubs can reduce costs while maintaining the same mountain views.

Budget stays in the Dolomites often provide something larger hotels can’t — a warm welcome, local insight, and a deeper connection to alpine culture.

👉 Browse guesthouses and seasonal deals on Hotels.com to compare prices and find the best value.

How Many Days Should You Stay in the Dolomites?

3 days are enough to see the highlights and experience iconic scenery.
4–5 days allows a more balanced visit with hikes, scenic drives, and time to slow down.
6+ days is ideal if you want deeper exploration, longer hikes, and a relaxed mountain pace.

If it’s your first visit, plan at least four days to truly appreciate the landscape without rushing between valleys.

If you’re combining the mountains with northern Italy destinations, the Dolomites pair perfectly with Venice. Many travelers visit Venice before heading to the Dolomites, making it a perfect cultural contrast before the Alpine landscapes. Our Where to Stay in Venice guide can help you choose the right base before continuing your journey into the mountains.

FAQs About Where to Stay in the Dolomites

Final Words

Choosing where to stay in the Dolomites isn’t about finding the most famous town — it’s about choosing the valley that matches how you want to experience the mountains. The right base can turn long drives into short scenic routes, crowded viewpoints into peaceful morning walks, and a busy itinerary into a slower, more memorable journey.

Whether you’re drawn to Cortina’s iconic scenery, Val Gardena’s hiking access, Alta Badia’s tranquil villages, or the quiet beauty near Lago di Braies, each area offers its own rhythm and perspective on the landscape.

Plan thoughtfully, stay a little longer than you think you need, and give yourself time to absorb the silence, the scale, and the changing light on the peaks — because in the Dolomites, the moments between destinations often become the ones you remember most.

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