2 Day Trip to Dolomites from Venice Tour

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Did you know that just two hours from Venice, an amazing mountain trip is waiting for you? Yes, I am talking about the Dolomites, the beautiful mountain range in Italy.

In this amazing place, you can enjoy skiing in winter, hiking in summer, and breathtaking cable car rides all year round. Perfect for hikers, bikers, and foodies alike.

Can’t wait to plan your excursion?

Read through the entire article. It’ll help you know what to expect and how to enjoy your 2 day trip to Dolomites from Venice. From the itinerary and travel tips to insider insights and safety advice, everything is here for you.

A 2-Day Itinerary for Your Trip to the Dolomites from Venice

Two days might seem like a short time to fully enjoy a trip to the Dolomites. But don’t worry! With the right plan, you can make the most of it.

Check out my detailed two-day itinerary for a quick overview:

Time	Day 1 Activities	Time	Day 2 Activities
6:00 AM	Departure from Venice	7:00 AM	Breakfast at the hotel
9:00 AM	Scenic stops on the way	8:00 AM	Departure for Tre Cime di Lavaredo
12:00 PM	Arrival in Cortina d’Ampezzo	9:00 AM	Arrival at the Tre Cime di Lavaredo parking area
12:30 PM	Check-in to accommodation	9:30 AM	Hike around the Tre Cime di Lavaredo loop trail
1:00 PM	Lunch at a local restaurant	12:30 PM	Stop for a picnic lunch
2:00 PM	Visiting town center	1:00 PM	Returning to the valley
2:30 PM	Visiting local shops, art gallery and boutiques	2:00 PM	Take a cable car ride
3:30 PM	Going for the nearby Cinque Torri	4:00 PM	Visit the lakes of Misurina and Auronzo
4.30 PM	Hike in the Cinque Torri	5.00 PM	Local snacks, walking around town
6.30 PM	Coming back to the town	6.00 PM	Preparing for departure
7:30 PM	Dinner & nightlife bars	6:30 PM	Departure for Venice
	Overnight stay in the hotel	9:00 PM	Arrival in Venice

Day 1- Venetian Routes to Dolomites Wonders

On the very first day, you’ll explore the charming town of Cortina, host of the 1956 Winter Olympics.

Feeling overwhelmed? Don’t worry, I’ve got all the details ready for your private tour:

Early Morning Departure from Venice

To enjoy a full day in the mountains and beat the traffic, leave Venice early in the morning, around 6 am.

You can take a bus or car for a quick journey. For departure, Venice Marco Polo Airport or Piazzale Roma are ideal spots to rent a car or catch a bus. Moreover, you can get some of the convenient ways from Venice Marco Polo Airport to Venice City Centre. Alternatively, you can join a guided tour where everything is arranged for you.

To get to Cortina d’Ampezzo quickly, I suggest you take the A27 highway north. It’ll take around 2 hours. The roads are well-maintained and easy to follow. Along the way, you’ll see pretty views, from the lagoon city to the tall Dolomite mountains.

Related Post: A Self Guided Walking Tour of Venice, Italy

Scenic Stops Along the Way to Dolomites

Don’t like long drives or journeys? No worries. Along your way, you can stop in beautiful towns for a quick coffee or breakfast.

Here are some notable stops along the way to Cortina d’Ampezzo:

• Treviso:  A charming city known for its canals, historic buildings, and Prosecco wine
• Conegliano: Famous for its wine production and old-town
• Belluno:  A gateway to the Dolomites, offering pretty views and a lovely old town
• Longarone:  Known for the Vajont Dam and its tragic history, but also for scenic beauty.

Late Morning Arrival at Cortina d’Ampezzo

If you don’t take long breaks along the way, you’ll arrive by late morning.

To ensure you’re well-rested before exploring, it’s best to check into your accommodation first.

Here are some popular hotels in Cortina d’Ampezzo for different budgets:

Extra Tips:
When checking in, have your passport or ID card and security deposits ready, and confirm check-in requirements with your hotel beforehand.

Midday Lunch in Local Restaurant

Time to treat yourself to delicious food at nearby restaurants. The smell of yummy Italian food fills the air as you walk in. They’ve got all sorts of dishes, like homemade pasta and Canederli.

Also, don’t forget to have a glass of fancy Italian wine with your meal. While you eat, you can enjoy the big, gorgeous mountains view outside.

For your convenience, I have shared some of the top restaurants featured in the MICHELIN Guide. They are as follows:

• Tivoli
• Ristorante Al Camin
• SanBrite
• El Brite de Larieto

Afternoon Roaming and Shopping

In this part, I will share some popular spots and landmarks that are travelers’ favorites. You can visit the local shopping centers like La Cooperativa di Cortina and Corso Italia.

Besides, Mount Faloria, near Cortina d’Ampezzo in the Dolomites, is a must-visit. You can take a pricey but worthwhile cable car ride to the top for amazing views and tasty Italian food at Rifugio Faloria. In winter, it becomes a paradise for skiing and snowboarding.

All these spots are absolutely perfect for spending a beautiful afternoon.

Sunset Views from Cinque Torri Trail

If you have some time, consider exploring the Cinque Torri Trail, which is just a 20-minute drive from Cortina. This amazing spot offers a variety of fun activities, including:

• Hiking
• Rock Climbing
• World War I History of this area
• Enjoy breathtaking Sunset Views
• Dining and Relaxation

For a more relaxed experience, take the funicular to the top. There, you can find a nice hut near the funicular station where you can grab snacks and drinks and use the restroom facilities. This destination is perfect for the evening.

Dinner and Nightlife Bars

After your time at Cinque Torri, consider exploring the local dining options in Cortina. The restaurants serve traditional to upscale dining experiences.

Cortina also offers a relaxed nightlife scene. You can go to one of the town’s bars or lounges and enjoy a drink. Here are some popular choices for bars and clubs:

• Molo Pub 
• El becalen
• Belvedere 

As the day comes to an end, it’s time to say goodnight. Rest well and recharge for a more exciting day tomorrow.

Day 2- Adventures All Day Long

After a good night’s sleep, prepare for a whole day of fun in the Dolomites. There are lots of exciting activities waiting for you. Such as the following:

Early Morning Breakfast & Departure for Tre Cime

Enjoy breakfast at a local restaurant before departing for Tre Cime di Lavaredo, iconic peaks in the Dolomites. Leave your base by 8 am to beat the queue.

From Cortina, it’s a 40-minute drive. Take the scenic SS49 road towards Misurina, then the toll road to Rifugio Auronzo. After 1 km, pay the toll for a parking ticket. Ensure you arrive during the toll booth’s opening hours.

Hiking in the Tre Cime Hiking Circuit

• Starting Point: Rifugio Auronzo
• Route Type: Loop
• Distance: Approximately 9.5 kilometers
• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging.
• Duration: Plan 4-6 hours for the complete circuit
• Best Time to Hike: Late spring to early autumn (May to September)
• Permits: No permits are required for day hikes

This trail is a great choice if you’re up for a good mountain adventure. It’s not too hard, but it’s not a walk in the park either. Just wear good hiking shoes and take breaks when you need them.

There are some places to stop for food and rest along the way, like mountain huts. But then again, it’s a good idea to bring your own water and snacks, just in case.

Time for a Lunch Break

Hiking isn’t complete without a scenic lunch break. I recommend picnicking at beautiful spots for cherished memories with loved ones.

On the Tre Cime Hiking Circuit, you’ll find great places for picnics:

• Locatelli Hut: A mountain hut with picnic tables outside and amazing scenery
• Lake Antorno: A pretty lake near the start of the hike, perfect for a picnic by the water
• Forcella Lavaredo: A pass with awesome views, where you can spread out a blanket and enjoy your meal.

Head Back for a Relaxing Cable Car Ride

When you come back down to the valley, try going on cable car rides for fun memories. Here are some popular options:

• Rifugio Auronzo Cable Car Station: Located near the Tre Cime di Lavaredo trailhead, this cable car takes you to Rifugio Auronzo. From here, you can easily drive towards Lake Misurina.
• Cortina d’Ampezzo Cable Car Stations: Cortina d’Ampezzo is a nearby town with several cable car stations. You can take a cable car from here to various locations around the area.

Take a Break in the Stunning Lake Misurina

Right now, you might be feeling tired. And this is why you should take a moment to pause and take a break at Lake Misurina, in Cadore.

It’s the largest natural lake there. The water is really clear and sparkles in the sunlight, which can make you feel calm inside.

You can extend your serene experience by driving to Auronzo Lake, just a short half-hour away, for more of the same calming vibes. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the moment.

Late Afternoon Roaming Around Town

After spending time at the lake, you can wander around Auronzo town in Belluno Province. There, you can have some local snacks like crispy breadsticks and cheese.

And then, try some local wine in a cozy tasting room. It is fun to sample different flavors. While strolling through the town, make sure to snap some pictures to capture beautiful memories. A lovely way to end the day!

Say Goodbye to Dolomites and Head for Venice

It’s time to wrap up your day and make your way back to Venice. But, before you leave, don’t forget to have all your belongings packed and ready. It’s also wise to book your car in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles.

Make sure to leave the town with enough time to reach Venice for dinner.

You can simply retrace your steps back the way you came—this time filled with fond memories and moments spent amidst nature.

Tips for a Memorable Day Trip to the Dolomites

A memorable trip requires more than just a visa & passport. Knowing local customs, the best travel times and safety precautions are key.

So, check out my tips below for a great experience:

When is the Perfect Time to Go?

The best time to visit the Majestic Dolomites in Italy is from late June to September. The weather is warm and ideal for hiking, climbing, and sightseeing.

For skiing and other winter activities, December to March are perfect due to the snow. Both seasons offer stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities.

What to Bring

When hiking in the Dolomites, pack the following items to ensure a safe and enjoyable hiking experience:

• Hiking Boots that are sturdy and comfortable
• Backpack with a rain cover.
• Clothing: Layers, waterproof jacket, hat, and gloves.
• Map, compass, or GPS.
• Water and Snacks
• First Aid Kit
• Sunscreen and Sunglasses
• Headlamp and whistle

Local Customs & Insider Tips

When visiting the Dolomites, it’s important to enjoy your time while respecting the peace and traditions of the local community.

Here are some tips to help you make the most of your trip:

• Greet Locally: Engage with locals by greeting them with “buongiorno” (good morning) or “buonasera” (good evening). Italians appreciate politeness and friendliness.

• Keep Nature Clean: Don’t leave trash around and stick to the paths when you’re hiking. It helps keep the beautiful Dolomites clean and safe.

• Use Cash: It’s smart to carry money because some places might not take cards, especially in smaller areas.

• Dress Right: The weather can change fast in the mountains. Wear layers and bring a waterproof jacket, even in summer. And good shoes are a must for walking.

Safety Precautions

Safety precautions are important when hiking in the Dolomites to keep you safe. The weather can change quickly, and the trails can be tough.

Being prepared helps you handle unexpected situations safely. So, here is what to do:

• Wear the right gear and clothes
• Check the weather and inform others of your route
• Stay on marked trails
• Carry a map and compass as GPS backup 
• Don’t overexert yourself
• Watch wildlife from a distance

Read More: Best Way to Travel From Venice to Rome

Conclusion

Whether you love adventure or nature, the Dolomites have it all. With careful planning and insider tips, your 2-day trip to Dolomites from Venice can be a blast.

You can enjoy scenic drives, and tasty food in Cortina, and hike Tre Cime di Lavaredo. 

Also, don’t forget to take cable cars for stunning views and relax by serene lakes.

You can also explore the World War I sites in the area.

With a mix of exciting outdoor activities and quiet moments in nature, your Dolomites trip will certainly be a wonderful break from your busy life.

Read More: How to Plan a Perfect Venice to Verona Day Trip?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)