.png)
Italian Dolomites vs French Alps: Which is better?
Updated: Jun 8
Considering the Alps or Dolomites? Here you’ll find the best hiking trails, alpine lakes, and places to stay in Italy's famous mountain region, the Dolomites. We’ll compare Europes most popular mountain destinations and provide an itinerary to maximize your time in the Dolomites.
The two most popular basecamp areas to explore the Dolomites, Bolzano and Cortina d’Amprezzo, offer great options to stay and visit the heart of the Italian Alps. We’ll provide reasons to stay in both, as well as an itinerary is you choose to stay in Cortina, the more central location. If you're really tight on time and already staying in Venice or the Lake Regions, check out the links below for day trips to the Dolomites, they are a must visit!
So the question remains, is the lesser know Dolomites actually a better outdoor destination than the more famous Alps?
Are you considering the Alps versus the Dolomites? Both the Dolomites and the Alps offer stunning mountain landscapes and opportunities for outdoor activities. However, after spending time in both of Europe's most popular mountain destinations, there are a few factors we consider advantageous about the Dolomites:
Unique Scenery: The Dolomites are renowned for their unique geological formations, characterized by dramatic limestone peaks, vertical rock walls, and stunning colors during sunrise and sunset. The distinct rock formations create a visually striking and picturesque landscape that is praised for its beauty. Simply put, the views in the Dolomites are unique to only this area, and are incredibly more visually stunning in person.
Hiking and Via Ferrata: Admittedly, I don’t have the stomach for Via Ferrata, and it’s impressive to see the local kids braving these cliff routes perched in high elevations. The Dolomites offer an extensive network of hiking trails and via ferrata routes for young and old. Hiking enthusiasts and adventure seekers can enjoy a wide range of options, from easy walks to challenging climbs. The Dolomites are particularly known for their via ferrata routes, which allow climbers to traverse exposed sections of the mountains using fixed cables and ladders, definitely not for the faint of heart.
Cultural Experience: The Dolomites are located in northeastern Italy and have a rich cultural heritage. The region is influenced by both Italian, German, and Austrian traditions, resulting in a unique blend of languages, architecture, and cuisine. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture, explore charming mountain villages, and indulge in delicious Alpine-Italian cuisine.
Cost: Pizza and beer after a long day of hiking just tastes better in the Dolomites than the Alps, and it costs at least half the amount. The value of the Dolomites can’t be ignored, it’s significantly less expensive than the more glamorous French and Swiss Alp destinations.
Slower Pace: The Swiss Alps tends to be more developed with well-established infrastructure, and more toursited resort towns. There are certainly famous Italian ski resorts in the Dolomites, but the countryside routes and villages provide a more rural and authentic feel with a slower pace that the busy resort towns in the Alps can’t match.
Where to stay to explore the Dolomites? There are so many options it’s not easy. If you're staying for a longer term, Bolzano makes perfect sense since it combines more traditional city conveniences. If you only have 3 days we recommend booking accommodation in advance in Cortina to provide a more authentic mountain experience and central location.
Bolzano, also known as Bozen, is a city located in the South Tyrol region of Italy, nestled in the heart of the Dolomites. It serves as an excellent base for exploring the Dolomites.
Central Location: Bolzano is strategically situated at the crossroads of major valleys in the Dolomites, making it an ideal starting point for exploring the region. From Bolzano, you can easily access various stunning mountain landscapes, hiking trails, and iconic peaks within a relatively short distance. Kastelruth (Castelrotto) is a favorite old town within easy driving distance. So is the Alpe di Siusi, the largest high alpine meadow in Europe and truly a must visit.
Cultural Hub: Bolzano is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage that blends Italian and Austrian influences. It offers a unique experience where you can immerse yourself in both Italian and Alpine traditions. Explore the charming historic center with its medieval arcades, visit museums like the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology, and savor the fusion of Alpine and Mediterranean cuisine in local restaurants.
Transportation Connectivity: Bolzano is well-connected by public transportation, including trains and buses, making it convenient to reach other towns and villages in the Dolomites. This allows for flexibility in planning day trips and exploring the surrounding areas without the need for a car.
Outdoor Activities: Bolzano offers a wide range of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts. You can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and via ferrata routes in the nearby mountain ranges. The region also boasts stunning natural beauty, including picturesque alpine meadows, deep valleys, and impressive peaks, all easily accessible from Bolzano.
Unique Attractions: Bolzano itself is home to unique attractions worth exploring. The Ötzi Museum showcases the famous Ötzi the Iceman, a well-preserved mummy discovered in the nearby Ötztal Alps. The Messner Mountain Museum, located in nearby Sigmundskron Castle, offers insights into mountaineering history and culture.
Blend of Nature and Urban Comforts: Bolzano combines the beauty of the Dolomites with the comforts of an urban center. After a day of outdoor activities, you can relax in the city's parks, indulge in local culinary delights, and take advantage of the city's amenities and services. Stay in the city and use the local running trails and fitness parks on the river running through the city!
Now, if you only have 3-4 days, we recommend staying in Cortina, here’s an adventurous 3-day itinerary to explore the Dolomites during the summer:
Day 1:
Morning: Arrive in the Dolomites and make your way to the town of Cortina d'Ampezzo, a popular base for exploring the region. .
Afternoon: Take the cable car up to Rifugio Faloria and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. You can also go for a short hike in this area.
Evening: Explore the charming town of Cortina d'Ampezzo, stroll through its streets, and enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the local restaurants.
Day 2:
Morning: Head to Tre Cime di Lavaredo, one of the most iconic landmarks in the Dolomites. Hike the loop trail around the Three Peaks for breathtaking views of the towering peaks.
Afternoon: Visit Lake Misurina, a stunning alpine lake surrounded by picturesque mountains. You can take a leisurely stroll around the lake or rent a boat to explore further.
Evening: Drive or take a bus to the charming village of San Candido (Innichen) and spend the night there.
Day 3:
Morning: Explore the Fanes-Senes-Braies Nature Park. Opt for a hike to Lake Braies (Lago di Braies), the largest and most famous lake in the Dolomites. You can rent a rowboat and enjoy the serene beauty of the lake.
Afternoon: Go for a thrilling adventure by visiting the Adventure Park Colfosco. Enjoy high-rope courses, zip lines, and other exciting activities amidst the stunning natural surroundings.
Evening: Return to Cortina d'Ampezzo or choose another central location in the Dolomites for your final night. Enjoy a relaxing evening and reflect on your adventurous journey.
Best Hiking Options:
Tre Cime di Lavaredo: Hike the loop trail around the Three Peaks for stunning views of the iconic rock formations.
Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Alm): Take a hike in the largest high-altitude Alpine meadow in Europe, surrounded by magnificent peaks and breathtaking landscapes.
Seceda: Enjoy a challenging hike to the top of Seceda and be rewarded with panoramic views of the Dolomites, including the iconic Odle peaks.
Most Famous Lake to Visit:
Lake Braies (Lago di Braies) is the most famous lake in the Dolomites. It's known for its emerald-green waters, picturesque mountain backdrop, and tranquil atmosphere. You’ve seen it all over the gram, and for good reason. It’s also an easy hike around the lake if you want to skip the boat rowing, we highly recommend this!
Most Central Location to Stay:
As we mentioned, Cortina d'Ampezzo is a great central location to stay in the Dolomites. It offers easy access to various hiking trails, beautiful scenery, and a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets. This central location and beauty comes at a price, but if you’re only here for 3 days it’s worth it!