Top 7 best hikes in the Dolomites

The Dolomites are unlike anywhere else - jagged limestone peaks, turquoise lakes, fllower-filles meadows, and sunsets that set the cliffs glowing pink. This UNESCO World Heritage Site in northern Italy is a true paradise for hikers, offering everything from easy lakeside walks to challenging alpine trails.

In this hiking guide, you'll find the best hikes in the Dolomites, with practical details and highlights for each one.

1. Tre Cime di Lavaredo

Starting point : Auronzo parking | Hiking time : 5h | Ascent : 800 m | Difficulty : Moderate

If there's one hike that defines the Dolomites, it's this one. The Tre Cime di Lavaredo - the three peaks of Lavaredo - are the most iconic mountains in the region. The loop trail offers views from every angle: soaring cliffs, wildflower meadows and beautiful panoramas of nearby ranges. If you linger a little longer, you will catch the glow of the peaks at sunset-time.

2. Lago di Braies

Starting point : Lago di Braies parking area | Hiking time : 2h | Ascent : 100 m | Difficulty : Easy

Did you know Lago di Braies is one of the most photographed spots in the Dolomites and also one of the best hikes in the Dolomites? Its turquoise waters reflect the cliffs and forests around it, creating postcard-perfect views from every angle. Walking the easy loop trail around the lake is more of a stroll than a hike - ideal for families or a gentle start or ending to your trip. As you walk around you will easily spot wooden boat houses and rowboats on the lake.

Our hiking trips in the Dolomites

3. Alta Via 1

Starting point : Lago di Braies | Hiking time : 1 to 7 days | Ascent : 500 to 1,000 m per stage | Difficulty : Moderate to Challenging

Stretching 120 km across the mountains, the Alta Via 1 is the Dolomites' most famous long distance trek. You don't have to do it all to enjoy it - it goes from 1 day to 7 days. Even one or two stages give you a taste of its variety from sparkling lakes to dramatic passes. Definitely one of the best hikes in the Dolomites.

4. Cinque Torri

Starting point : Baita Bai de Dones parking | Hiking time : 4h | Ascent : 420 m | Difficulty : Moderate

The Cinque Torri - "the five towers" - are striking rock formations that rise above the Cortina valley and should be on your best hikes in the Dolomites list! This hike combines their dramatic presence with history: the area was a WWI frontline, and you can explore restored trenches and tunnels along the trail. It's a perfect hike with a mix of nature and culture.

5. Lago di Sorapis

Starting point : Passo Tre Croci | Hiking time : 4h30 | Ascent : 500 m | Difficulty : Moderate

Hidden high above Cortina, Lago di Sorapis is one of the Dolomites' most enchanting lakes. Its milky turquoise waters sit in a natural amphitheater of cliffs, creating a scene that feels almost unreal. Getting there requires more effort than other lakes, but the reward is worth it.

6. Lagazuoi

Starting point : Falzarego Pass | Hiking time : 5h | Ascent : 900 m | Difficulty : Moderate to Challenging

Standing at 2,835 meters, the peak of Lagazuoi offers one of the most breathtaking viewpoints in the Dolomites. From the summit, you can see endless ranges stretching in every direction - including the Marmolada, Tofane and the Fanes group. You can hike up from the Falzarego Pass or take the cable car, making it accessible to almost eveeryone. Once you are at the summit, you benefit from 360° views on the Dolomites.

7. Val di Funes

Starting point : Zannes parking area | Hiking time : 3 to 4h | Ascent : 400 m | Difficulty : Easy to Moderate

If you've seen photos of green meadows with the jagged Odle peaks in the background, they were probably taken in Val di Funes. The Adolf Munkel trail runs beneath these dramatic cliffs, passing through forests, alpine pastures and traditional huts.