How to Get to Cortina d'Ampezzo and Get Around

Cortina d'Ampezzo, the glamorous queen of the Dolomites, beckons adventure enthusiasts with its stunning landscape surrounded by Tofane, Cristallo and Cinque Torri. If you are planning a trip, knowing how to get to Cortina d'Ampezzo efficiently can enhance your experience, whether you aim for thrilling via ferrata routes, skiing, or tranquil hiking adventures.

Pavel Špindler / CC BY 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons

Getting to Cortina d'Ampezzo by Train

Reaching Cortina d'Ampezzo by train involves several steps, starting with a journey to Calalzo di Cadore. The most frequent rail service operates from major cities like Venice and Treviso, with train fares ranging from around €10 to around €15-25. The train journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. From Calalzo di Cadore, you’ll need to take a local bus to Cortina d'Ampezzo, which runs frequently and takes about an hour. The bus fare is around €7-10.

Make sure to check out the Trenitalia timetable before your departure, as schedules can change depending on the season. Additionally, peak times during holiday seasons can lead to crowded trains and limited seat availability.

Driving to Cortina d'Ampezzo

If you prefer driving, Cortina d'Ampezzo is well-connected by road, particularly from Venice. The journey takes about 2 hours, covering approximately 165 kilometers. The route mainly follows the A27 highway, providing stunning views of the surrounding Dolomite landscape. Parking in Cortina can be challenging during peak seasons, with public parking options in designated areas around the town costing around 2.around €40-60 to around €2-4 per hour.

Ensure you have snow tires or chains during winter months, as the roads can be icy. While driving provides the flexibility to explore nearby peaks and valleys, consider the traffic that can build up, especially on weekends and holidays.

Flying into Cortina d'Ampezzo

The nearest major airports to Cortina d'Ampezzo include Venice Marco Polo Airport and Treviso Airport. From these airports, a combination of public transportation or car rental is necessary to reach Cortina.

Flights to Venice generally cost between €60-190 for a roundtrip, depending on your origin. After arriving, you can take a train to Calalzo di Cadore and then a bus to Cortina, or choose to rent a car for a more direct 2-hour drive. Keep in mind that rental car prices vary, typically ranging from around €50 to around €80-130 per day during peak seasons.

Navigating Within Cortina d'Ampezzo

Once in Cortina d'Ampezzo, getting around is straightforward. The town is compact and walkable, making it easy to access shops, restaurants, and trailheads. For those wanting to travel further afield, the local bus service provides transport to various ski slopes and hiking trails.

A ticket for the local bus ranges from 1.around €40-60 to around €4-6, depending on the distance. The Dolomiti Superski region also offers a ski pass valid for multiple areas, from around €60 for a one-day pass to approximately €275-450 for a season pass, allowing access to extensive skiing terrain.

Via Ferrata in Cortina d'Ampezzo

Cortina d'Ampezzo is renowned for its via ferrata routes, suitable for both beginners and experienced climbers. One of the ideal spots is Via Ferrata Omnia, located near the Tofane massif. This route is accessible via the Tofana cable car, costing around €25-40 for a return trip. The climb offers spectacular views and is generally completed in 4 to 5 hours.

For novices, consider hiring a local guide from companies such as Cortina Trails or Aventura, which offers groups and private lessons. Costs for guided climbing can range from around €250 to around €325-500 for a group of four, depending on the package and duration.

Skiing in Cortina d'Ampezzo

During winter, the ski season generally runs from December to March, with over 120 kilometers of ski slopes available within the Dolomiti Superski arena. Lift tickets cost around €50-80 per day, and options for multi-day passes are available, yielding better value if you plan on skiing more than just a single day. Key ski areas to explore include the Faloria and Cristallo Ski areas, where you can find slopes for all skill levels.

Hiking in the Dolomites

Summer months transform Cortina into a hiking paradise. From early June to late September, you can explore numerous trails suited for varying expertise. A highly recommended route is the hike around Tre Cime di Lavaredo, offering breathtaking views of the iconic peaks. This particular trail is approximately 10 kilometers long and generally takes about 3-4 hours to complete. An entrance fee of around €5-8 is required for access.

For family-friendly hiking, the paths around Lake Braies provide a stunning scenery and are easily accessible.

Things to Do in Cortina d'Ampezzo

Aside from adventure activities, Cortina offers a rich cultural experience. The historic Corso Italia is lined with upscale shops, traditional cafes, and local restaurants serving distinctive cuisine from the Veneto region, including pastas and local wines. The Olympic Ice Stadium, built for the 1956 Winter Olympics, often hosts events and ice skating sessions.

Be sure to check local event calendars as Cortina frequently hosts festivals, especially in the winter months, where you can experience the regional culture and cuisine.

Frequently asked questions

How much does getting to Cortina d'Ampezzo cost?

Costs will vary based on your travel method. Expect train fares from major cities to be around €8-15 to around €15-25, while car rentals can range from around €50 to around €80-130 per day. Budget around €200-325 for a weekend trip, including accommodation and activities.

What are the best months for via ferrata in Cortina d'Ampezzo?

The best months for via ferrata are typically June through September, when the weather is stable, and the trails are clear of snow. Always check local conditions as they can change quickly in the mountains.

Where are the best hiking trails in Cortina d'Ampezzo?

Some top hiking trails include the loop around Tre Cime di Lavaredo and paths in the Fanes-Senes-Braies Natural Park. Both offer stunning views and varying difficulty levels.

Can I rent equipment for via ferrata in Cortina d'Ampezzo?

Yes, several local shops provide rental equipment for via ferrata. Expect to pay around €10-20 to around €25-40 for a harness, helmet, and via ferrata kit.

Is it easy to find guided tours for adventure activities in Cortina d'Ampezzo?

Yes, numerous local operators offer guided tours for activities like via ferrata, skiing, and hiking. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons.

What is the accessibility like in Cortina d'Ampezzo during winter?

Cortina d'Ampezzo is generally accessible, with well-maintained roads and public transport options available. However, snow can affect driving conditions, so check weather and road reports if you plan to drive.

Ready to go

Ready to book your adventure? Browse experiences in Italy on Roundtripski. Keep planning with the adventure guide to the Dolomites and the adventure guide to Lake Como.