Quick answer: For the Italian Dolomites, base in Val Gardena (Ortisei) or Alta Badia for classic dolomite scenery and lifts, in glamorous Cortina d’Ampezzo for resort comforts, or in Bolzano as a valley town with the best transport. Pick a valley near the hikes you want — the Dolomites are spread out.
Where to stay in the Dolomites: best areas
| Area | Best for | The vibe |
|---|---|---|
| Cortina d’Ampezzo | First-timers, glam | Resort town |
| Val Gardena (Ortisei) | Hiking & skiing | Classic, scenic |
| Alta Badia | Food & slopes | Upscale |
| Val di Funes | Quiet & iconic views | Postcard valley |
Best areas at a glance
| Area | Best for |
|---|---|
| Val Gardena (Ortisei) | First-timers, lifts, hiking, scenery |
| Cortina d’Ampezzo | Glamour, resorts, dining, skiing |
| Bolzano | Transport hub, valley base, year-round |
| Alta Badia | Hiking, food, classic peaks |
| Val di Funes | Iconic church-and-peaks views, quiet |
Val Gardena & Alta Badia — the hiking heart
Val Gardena (towns like Ortisei) and Alta Badia sit among the most spectacular peaks, with cable cars whisking you straight to trailheads and rifugi — ideal first-timer bases for both summer hiking and winter skiing.
Cortina, Bolzano & Val di Funes
Cortina d’Ampezzo is the chic resort town (1956 and 2026 Olympics) with the best dining. Bolzano is a lively valley city with the easiest transport and the Ötzi museum, while Val di Funes delivers the iconic church-beneath-the-peaks photo and a peaceful stay.
Getting around
A car is the most flexible way to move between valleys (passes are scenic but winding); in summer, regional buses and the excellent lift network cover a lot. Base in the valley nearest your target hikes.
Where to take care / book early
Peak summer (Jul–Aug) and ski season book out and cost more — reserve early. Many lifts and rifugi close in shoulder months (Apr–May, Nov), so check opening dates.
Frequently asked questions
Where should I stay in the Dolomites? Val Gardena or Alta Badia for scenery and lifts; Cortina for resort comfort; Bolzano for transport.
Do I need a car in the Dolomites? It helps a lot — valleys are spread out, though lifts and buses cover the main areas.
Plan with our Italy itinerary and Patagonia or Dolomites.
You Might Also Love
Written by
John Morrison is the founder and lead travel writer at Packzup. Over the past decade he has explored destinations across Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and Oceania — always self-funded, never on a press trip.