The best places to stay in the Dolomites depend on your interests and trip length, but some top recommended areas include:
- Val Gardena (towns like Selva, Ortisei, and Santa Cristina): Great for hiking, good transport links, and a mix of village charm and mountain access. Ortisei is the largest with the best facilities, Selva offers excellent cable car connections, and Santa Cristina is quieter
- Cortina d'Ampezzo : Known for luxury shopping and sensational hiking, this is a popular base but generally requires a car due to limited public transport. It has many upscale hotels and a lively town atmosphere
- Alta Badia (including La Villa) : A peaceful area with fairy tale landscapes, close to nature parks and hiking trails. La Villa offers a range of accommodations from budget to luxury, including wellness hotels and boutique options
- San Martino di Castrozza and Val di Funes : Recommended for longer stays or those wanting quieter, scenic bases. Val di Funes is ideal for non-skiers and families, with charming family-run hotels
- Alta Pusteria (San Candido) : Good for access to lakes and mountain huts, less crowded with many natural attractions nearby
- Madonna di Campiglio : A more remote, less touristy area for those seeking tranquility and fewer crowds
For a typical one-week trip, splitting time between two or three bases like Val Gardena, Cortina d’Ampezzo, and San Martino di Castrozza or Val di Funes is recommended. For shorter trips, choosing one base such as Val Gardena or Cortina d’Ampezzo is ideal
. Popular hotel options include:
- Grand Hotel Savoia and Hotel de LEN in Cortina d’Ampezzo for luxury and upscale stays.
- Hotel La Majun and Hotel Cristallo near La Villa for luxury wellness experiences.
- Pensione Camoscio in La Villa for budget-friendly cozy lodging.
- Apartments and B&Bs in Ortisei for budget or self-catered stays
Overall, your choice should consider your preferred activities, transport options, and whether you want a lively town or a peaceful mountain village experience
