Things to know before visiting the Dolomites

I get a lot of messages from people asking what they should know before traveling to the Dolomites... from the best time to visit to practical tips for their trip. So, I’ve put together a list of things I think are important to know before you go!

Getting There – Best Ways to Reach the Dolomites

The Dolomites are well-connected, but getting there depends on where you're coming from:

• By Plane: The closest major airports are in Venice (VCE), Verona (VRN), Innsbruck (INN, Austria), and Munich (MUC, Germany). Venice and Innsbruck are the best options if you're heading straight to the heart of the Dolomites.

• By Train: You can take a train to major cities like Bolzano, Bressanone, or Trento, but keep in mind that trains won’t take you into the mountains—you’ll need a car or bus from there.

• By Car: If you're already in Italy, Austria, or Germany, driving is the easiest way to reach the Dolomites. Highways are well-maintained, and the mountain roads are scenic but can be steep and winding.

Getting Around – Renting a Car or Camper is a Game-Changer

While there are buses and trains in the Dolomites, public transport is limited, especially if you want to visit remote locations or catch sunrise at a specific spot. That’s why I highly recommend renting a car or camper van, it gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace and access the most stunning places at the right time.

During my travels, I actually only took the bus for very short distances, mainly when driving was not possible (for example ... when a parking was full or the road closed for private vehicles). But in general, you’ll have much more freedom if you have your own vehicle.

Toll Roads & Vignette

​In Italy, most motorways are toll roads where drivers pay fees directly at toll booths before passing through barriers. If your journey to the Dolomites takes you through Austria, it's mandatory to purchase a vignette for using Austrian motorways and expressways. This vignette can be bought online or at various sales points. ​

Additionally, when crossing from Austria into Italy via the Europabrücke (Europe Bridge) on the A13 Brenner Autobahn, a special toll of €12.00 per single journey is required. This toll can be paid directly at the toll station or online as a digital toll ticket. ​

Language – A Mix of Italian and German

Depending on where you are in the Dolomites, you’ll hear either more Italian or German. In South Tyrol, German is widely spoken, while in other areas, Italian is the main language. That said, in most touristy places, you’ll have no problem getting by with English.

In case you’re ever in a pinch, you can also use a translation app to help with communication. Google Translate is a lifesaver, especially when you’re dealing with menus that are only in the local language. Google Lens is perfect for quickly translate the menu in real time using your phone’s camera. It’s super easy and can save a lot of time!

Payments – Card or Cash?

Most hotels, restaurants, and shops accept credit cards and mobile payments, but keep in mind that many mountain huts (rifugi) and smaller cafés only take cash. It’s always a good idea to carry some Euros, especially if you’re heading off the beaten path.

Drinking Water – Fresh from the Mountains

One of the best things about the Dolomites? The tap water is incredible! It comes straight from the mountains and is safe to drink. You’ll also find plenty of fountains along hiking trails where you can refill your bottle. If there’s a location where the water is not drinkable, it will be marked with a sign.

Local Food – A Must-Try Culinary Experience

The Dolomites aren’t just about the stunning landscapes, they also have an amazing culinary scene! The cuisine here blends Italian and Tyrolean influences, and you have to try dishes like Speck (cured ham), Schüttelbrot (a crisp rye bread), Kaiserschmarrn (a sweet, fluffy pancake), and a hearty soup made from local ingredients. Many of the mountain huts offer traditional meals that are perfect after a long day of hiking.

Weather – Be Ready for Anything

The weather in the Dolomites can change in an instant. You might start your hike under a blue sky and end it in the middle of a thunderstorm. Always check the forecast and pack accordingly. A rain jacket is always a good idea :D!

Packing – Layers Are Key

Because the weather can be unpredictable, layering is your best friend. Bring a waterproof jacket, a warm layer, and sturdy hiking boots. If you’re visiting in summer, don’t forget sunscreen and a hat—the mountain sun can be surprisingly strong.

Check here my Dolomites essentials

Best Time to Visit – My Favorite Times

The Dolomites are stunning year-round, but the experience can be very different depending on the season:

• Late Spring and Early Autumn (late May – June & September – end of October): These are my personal favorite times to visit! The weather is great for hiking, and the crowds are much smaller, so everything feels more relaxed. The autumn colors are also absolutely breathtaking, especially in October. However, a downside is that some hotels and restaurants close in the shoulder seasons (autumn and spring), so it’s important to check opening times in advance.

• Summer (July – August): This is the busiest time in the Dolomites, especially in well-known hiking areas like the Tre Cime or Seceda. The trails can get crowded, and accommodations book out well in advance. However, the weather is perfect for outdoor activities.

• Winter (December – March): While the Dolomites are famous for their skiing, hiking during winter is a bit tricky. Many of the trails are covered in snow or ice, and some areas are inaccessible due to road closures. Most lakes are frozen, and the beauty of the landscape is incredible. But be aware that usually the mountain huts are closed, and getting around can be more challenging due to the snow. That said, if you love the winter vibe and are into skiing, this is an amazing time to visit! But if you’re looking for milder winter temperatures, you can head towards Lake Garda. Located just south of the Dolomites, this area enjoys a much milder climate in the winter, making it a great escape if you want to avoid the cold mountain weather.

Tipping – What’s the Custom?

Tipping isn’t mandatory in Italy, but it’s always appreciated. In restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip is common. Some places already include a service charge ("coperto"), so check your receipt before tipping extra.

Electricity & Adapters – Don’t Forget One!

Italy uses 230V outlets with Type F and Type L plugs. If you’re coming from the UK, US, or any country with different plugs, make sure to bring an adapter.

WiFi & Mobile Data – Mostly Good, but Not Everywhere

Most hotels and restaurants have WiFi, and mobile coverage is decent in towns and along main roads. But as soon as you head into the mountains, expect spotty reception. If you need reliable data, consider getting an Italian prepaid SIM card—TIM, Vodafone, or WindTre are good options.

Personally, I always buy WindTre because they offer great deals with plenty of mobile data. I’ve used it several times when traveling with my camper van, especially in the evenings when I want to watch a Netflix movie. It's super convenient to have a solid connection.

If you prefer an eSIM, I recommend Holafly. I use it whenever my data from Germany runs out or when I’m traveling outside Europe where my mobile data doesn’t work. The best part is, you don’t have to go to a store—you can easily book it online before your trip, which makes it super convenient. --> If you use the code GIULIOGROEBERT you get 5% discount.

I hope these tips help with your trip planning! The Dolomites are one of the most breathtaking places I’ve ever been, and I’m sure you’ll have an unforgettable adventure. 😊