Leave Venice for a full-day road tour into the UNESCO-listed Dolomites, with stops in Cortina d'Ampezzo, lakes Misurina and Auronzo, and panoramic views from Passo Tre Croci. Expect short walks, alpine dining, and seasonal options like boat rentals and a chairlift to Col de Varda.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You leave Venice before dawn and watch the lagoon give way to open road; the city’s canals shrink behind the bus and the peaks ahead sharpen into a skyline of pale rock. By mid-morning the road climbs Passo Tre Croci (≈1,809 m) and Cortina d'Ampezzo appears—an alpine town where ski slopes and café terraces share the same steep angles. From the Corso Italia you can read the town’s sporting history in shopfronts and Olympic banners.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
10 hours
Fitness Level
Light overall; comfortable with short, easy walks (15–90 minutes) and standing during photo stops
Wildlife
History
Cortina grew into an international winter-sports resort in the 20th century and will host events for the 2026 Winter Olympics; the Dolomites preserve unique Triassic carbonate formations that give the range its pale, columnar shapes.
Conservation
The Dolomites are a protected UNESCO site—stick to marked trails, avoid disturbing wildlife, and use restaurants and services that follow local waste and water-management practices.
Reserve your spot on the From Venice: The Best of the Dolomites Mountains Day Trip today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Layer for temperature swings
Temperatures can drop quickly above 1,500 m—wear a windproof mid-layer and pack a light insulated jacket.
Bring cash for mountain restaurants
Smaller eateries around Misurina and Auronzo may prefer cash for quick lunches and boat rentals.
Footwear for mixed terrain
Choose sturdy shoes with grip for gravel lakeshores, dams and short trails from parking areas.
Sun protection at altitude
Higher sun exposure means SPF, sunglasses and a hat are useful even on cool days.
Sturdy walking shoes
Grip and ankle support for gravel shorelines, dams and short alpine trails.
Layered clothing (windproof mid-layer)
Keeps you comfortable across valley heat and colder passes.
Sunscreen & sunglasses
High-altitude sun and reflective water increase UV exposure.
summer
Camera or smartphone with extra battery
Scenic viewpoints and lakes are the main draws—battery life matters.