Travel Guide
Your ultimate introduction to the Dolomite's alpine towns and stunning natural beauty — everything you need to plan your perfect itinerary.
Concrete Playground
January 08, 2025
Travel Guide: Dolomites

Have you ever wondered where the Europeans holiday in Europe? This under-the-radar region may be the answer.

Part of the Italian Alps, the Dolomites is a massive mountain range in northeastern Italy that boasts cinematic vistas — from the craggy, snow-topped peaks and pristine alpine lakes to the undulating valleys, plus plenty of recreational fun.

The Dolomites is home to some of the best ski resorts in the world — the Dolomiti Superski encompasses 12 of them and over 1200 kilometres of slopes. When the snow melts away, visitors swap their skis for hiking boots with hundreds of trails to choose between.

Due to its close proximity to the Austrian border, the region is also a curious cultural study — some towns have both Italian and German names, the primary language spoken varies from village to village and the local cuisine is expectedly unique.

In partnership with HSBC, we’ve put together this helpful starter guide to the city so you can start planning your itinerary.

Have you ever wondered where the Europeans holiday in Europe? This under-the-radar region may be the answer.

Planning Ahead

Before you launch into responsibility-free fun in Italy, you’ll need to get some adult stuff out of the way first like sorting out your payment plan. With an HSBC Everyday Global Account, you can have up to ten currencies (including EUR) preloaded or top up as you go, so you can use your Visa Debit Card for all purchases and ATM withdrawals. The best part? You won’t be stung with international transaction fees.

Getting Around

With scenic vistas around every bend, the Dolomites is made for road-tripping in the warmer months. Hire a car, plan out a rough route — leaving plenty of time for unplanned pitstops and detours when you stumble across a view you simply must photograph — and hit the road. Public transport is available, especially in the peak season, but it doesn’t allow the spontaneity that you will crave in this region full of surprises.

Locals Love

Beginner-level to expert. One-day or multi-day. Crowded or isolated. There are a lot of factors to consider when choosing a hike to do in the Dolomites. One of the best (and their most popular) short hikes is Tre Cime de Lavaredo, a moderate 10-kilometre loop that leads you past turquoise alpine lakes, wildflower-strewn meadows and WWI bunkers with the three jagged peaks in view at all times.

Don’t Miss

Keen hikers are likely familiar with the Italian term via ferrata, which translates to “the way of iron” and is used to describe trails with metal cables, pins and footholds fixed to the rock faces. These safety features gained prominence in the Dolomites during WWI with dozens of via ferrata trails now spread across the region. They’re best enjoyed between mid-June and mid-September (before the snow begins to fall again) and equipment can be rented from outdoor stores in the bigger towns.

Five of the Best

Tick these must-visit haunts off your bucket list.

Cortina d'Ampezzo

This small town and ski resort is gearing up to host the Winter Olympics for a second time in 2026.

Val Gardena

A trio of fairytale-esque villages — Santa Cristina, Ortesei and Selva — popular with families.

Bolzano

One of the major urban hubs of the Dolomites, Bolzano is a must-visit for a taste of South Tyrolean culture.

Alta Badia

Boutique hotels, Michelin-starred dining and stellar ski runs await in this South Tyrol town.

Dobbiaco

Considered the gateway to the Dolomites, this is the perfect base for adventures in nature.

Merano

This picturesque spa town close to the Austrian border oozes laidback luxury.

Five of the Best

Tick these must-visit haunts off your bucket list.

Explore the Dolomites Your Way

Dive into the Dolomites stunning towns with our interactive map. Save must-see attractions, plan your route, and build your dream itinerary — all in one place. Whether it’s hiking trails or ski villages, this is your ultimate tool to navigate the region with ease.

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      Further Afield

      If you've got a little extra time, here are five day trips you should plan from the Dolomites.

      • Venice

        Venice

        The city famous for its intricate network of canals, architecture, contemporary art and cicchetti (Italian finger food) is two hours away by train.
      • Verona

        Verona

        There's more to this UNESCO World Heritage City than the fact it's the home of 'Romeo and Juliet'. Discover pretty piazzas, grand churches and more.
      • Innsbruck

        Innsbruck

        For more scenic hikes or wintery fun, hop across the border to this famed town in the heart of the Austrian Alps.
      • Lake Garda

        Lake Garda

        Often overshadowed by neighbouring Lake Como, Garda is the largest lake in Italy and a popular summertime vacation, particularly for water sport enthusiasts.
      • Lago di Braies

        Lago di Braies

        Breathtaking in more ways than one, this pristine alpine lake is located 1500 metres above sea level, a stunning scene where the surface is a mirror image of the towering snow-capped peaks above. Legend has it tons of gold hidden by Nazis in WWII rests beneath the surface.

      More Unique Stays

      Ready to start planning? We've found five experiences you can book right now, fee free, using your HSBC Everyday Global Account Visa Debit Card.

      • Seehotel Ambach

        Seehotel Ambach

        The very best of 70s design — pops of neon colour, sleek midcentury furniture and geometric architectural choices — is on display at this boutique retreat on the shores of Lake Caldaro.
      • Ansitz Steinbock

        Ansitz Steinbock

        Inside one of the oldest buildings in the village of Villandro — it dates back to the late Middle Ages — is a boutique hotel that's also home to a gourmet restaurant.

      Where to eat and drink

      What to do

      Where to stay

      Be prepared for your Italy adventure by opening an HSBC Everyday Global Account. For more information, head to the website.

      This is a sponsored post in partnership with HSBC. Other banking services fees and charges may apply. Issued by HSBC Bank Australia Limited ABN 48 006 434 162. AFSL 232595. This advertisement provides general advice only and doesn’t take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Consider the product terms and conditions before acquiring the product, available at www.hsbc.com.au.

      Illustration: Haylee Poppi
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