Cortina d’Ampezzo, often called the “Queen of the Dolomites,” truly feels like a place that has it all. It’s the kind of destination that makes you understand why Italy’s most exclusive travelers have been coming here for years. Imagine being surrounded by dramatic mountain peaks, with world-class skiing right at your doorstep, alongside a surprisingly chic culinary scene. It’s a place that feels both adventurous and luxurious. This Italian alpine town is gearing up to shine even brighter as it co-hosts the 2026 Winter Olympics, bringing back memories of its 1956 Olympic glory and putting it back on the international map.
Embracing the Alpine Charm
Cortina is part of the Dolomiti Superski circuit, a vast network that boasts over 745 miles of pistes, making it an absolute paradise for skiers and snowboarders. But it’s not just about the winter sports. When the snow melts, the mountains transform into a playground for hikers, mountain bikers, and climbers. Even if high-octane adventure isn’t your speed, Cortina offers plenty of reasons to visit. You can indulge in Michelin-starred dining, browse high-end boutiques, or simply soak in the glamorous atmosphere of the après-ski scene. And when it comes to accommodations, you’ll find some of the most sought-after hotels in the region.
Where to Stay in Style
Grand Hotel Savoia Cortina d’Ampezzo, A Radisson Collection Hotel
This iconic hotel has been beautifully updated and is located conveniently near the town center. It offers a fantastic spa, spacious suites perfect for families, and a guest list that hints at its exclusive appeal. As the largest resort in the Ampezzo Valley, it also includes the Radisson Residences Savoia Palace, which are ideal if you’re looking for apartment-style living for a longer stay.
Faloria Mountain Spa Resort
Woodsy and modern, this resort is a favorite for those seeking a romantic escape. The penthouse suite, in particular, is highly recommended for couples looking for that extra special touch. It’s a perfect blend of comfort and mountain beauty.
Rosapetra Spa Resort
Tucked away amidst mountains and meadows, just a short distance from Cortina’s bustling main street, Rosapetra offers an intimate experience with only 33 rooms and seven suites. The decor emphasizes natural wood for a rustic-minimalist feel. While welcoming to families, it maintains a serene, adult-oriented atmosphere, especially within its tranquil spa area.
Cristallo Resort & Spa
This historic Art Nouveau grand dame is slated for a significant transformation, set to reopen as a Mandarin Oriental property. This will be the renowned brand’s first alpine resort, and its reopening is timed perfectly to welcome guests for the 2026 Olympics, promising an even more luxurious experience.
Unforgettable Experiences Await
Conquer the Dolomiti Superski Slopes
With an immense network of over 745 miles of skiable terrain and 120 modern lifts, the Dolomiti Superski circuit guarantees endless exploration. You can spend days here and still not cover all the ground. In the warmer months, these same mountains offer breathtaking hiking and biking trails that lead to pristine mountain meadows and shimmering lakes. It’s a landscape that truly changes with the seasons, offering something new to discover.
Explore the Tre Cime di Lavaredo
These are perhaps the most recognizable peaks in the Dolomites, and their dramatic appearance is truly striking. Despite their formidable look, the Tre Cime are surprisingly accessible. A popular 6.4-mile circular trail circles the base of these iconic mountains, offering incredible photographic opportunities and a sense of awe. This hike typically takes around 3.5 hours, allowing time to stop for a meal at one of the charming mountain huts, known as rifugios.
What if I’m not an experienced hiker?
Don’t worry, the trail around the Tre Cime is considered moderate and very manageable for most people with a reasonable level of fitness. You can take your time and enjoy the scenery.
Ascend a Via Ferrata
For a more adventurous experience, consider tackling a via ferrata, a protected climbing route. The Cascate di Fanes, located within the Natural Park of the Ampezzo Dolomites, offers a guided via ferrata experience that combines stunning waterfall views with an accessible itinerary. It’s an excellent option for beginners looking for an exhilarating way to experience the dramatic landscapes.
Take in Panoramic Vistas
You don’t need to be a skier or a seasoned climber to experience Cortina’s incredible scenery. A ride on the Freccia nel Cielo cable car will whisk you up to Cima Tofana, the third-highest peak in the Dolomites, standing at an impressive 10,640 feet. From the summit, the views are simply breathtaking. Imagine enjoying a pizza at nearly two miles above sea level while marveling at the vast alpine panorama before descending back to town.
Is the cable car ride family-friendly?
Absolutely. The Freccia nel Cielo cable car is a comfortable and accessible way for everyone, including children, to experience the dramatic elevation changes and immerse yourselves in the stunning mountain vistas. It’s a scenic journey in itself.
A Taste of Cortina
Baita Piè Tofana
This charming mountain chalet offers an exceptional dining experience, especially for those seeking refuge from the city’s hustle and bustle. Helmed by a chef with experience in Michelin-starred kitchens, it’s a perfect spot for a hearty meal after a day on the slopes or exploring the Tofana mountains. The ambiance is rustic yet refined, making it a memorable culinary stop.
Tivoli
Cortina’s reputation for Michelin-starred dining is well-earned, and Tivoli is a prime example. The restaurant’s exquisite cuisine is beautifully presented and complemented by its stunning natural surroundings. It’s advisable to book your table well in advance, especially if you’re hoping for a seat with a view or on the patio during pleasant weather.
Pontejel Bierstube Forst
For a more casual yet authentic experience, this cheerful tavern in the heart of Cortina offers hearty Tyrolean fare. Its proximity to the Austrian border is evident in the menu. It’s an ideal spot for a refreshing beer, a savory pretzel, or a platter of regional meats and cheeses – a true taste of the alpine tradition.
Shopping Treasures
Artigianato Artistico Ampezzano
Cortina is proud of its long-standing craft traditions. Here, you can discover unique items like hand-carved wooden objects, intricate metal inlays, and more. It’s a wonderful place to find distinctive jewelry, home decor, and thoughtful gifts that reflect the local artistry.
La Cooperativa di Cortina
This unique, multi-level shopping destination brings together a vast array of products and services. From clothing and gifts to custom furnishings and local artisanal foods, you can find just about anything here. It’s a place where you can pick up a unique souvenir or even some high-quality local delicacies.
Franz Kraler
If you’re looking for luxury fashion, Franz Kraler is the go-to boutique. It features prominent Italian designer brands alongside premium sportswear. The store is known for its outstanding customer service, making it a pleasure to shop for everything from ski wear to elegant après-ski attire.
Cortina After Dark
Enoteca Cortina
This beloved wine bar is a local favorite for good reason. The owner has curated an extensive cellar of select wines from around the world. It’s the perfect place to sample some exceptional vintages, and in true Italian style, your drink is always accompanied by a small plate of delicious appetizers.
Restaurant Col Drusciè 1778
Accessible by gondola or on foot, this unique mountainside restaurant offers awe-inspiring views from its terrace. On select nights, you can extend your experience by visiting the adjacent observatory for unparalleled stargazing. It’s a remarkable fusion of fine dining and cosmic wonder.
Bar Sport
With a prime location on Corso Italia, this lively spot draws a crowd, especially on its spacious patio. It’s a great place to people-watch and soak in the town’s atmosphere, perhaps enjoying a leisurely drink and reflecting on the day’s adventures, while the kids sketch in their travel journals.
Janbo
This popular spot is known for its delicious cocktails and comforting food options like pizzas and burgers. As the evening progresses, the furniture is cleared away, and the space transforms into a popular dance floor. Arriving early is key to securing a good spot for the fun that ensues.
Planning Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
For the prime skiing experience, January through March is ideal, but expect the largest crowds during this peak winter season. If you prefer fewer people and longer, pleasant days, June and September are wonderful shoulder months. These times offer a quieter experience, allowing you to feel like you have the majestic mountains and stunning sunrises almost to yourself. For any visit during peak seasons, booking accommodations and dinner reservations well in advance is essential. If you’re hoping to experience the 2026 Winter Olympics, you’ll definitely want to start making plans now.
Is Cortina beautiful in the summer?
Yes, Cortina transforms into a stunning summer destination. The lush green meadows, clear blue skies, and accessible hiking trails offer a completely different but equally breathtaking experience compared to its winter wonderland persona.
Getting There
The closest major airport is Venice Marco Polo Airport, about a two-hour scenic drive from Cortina. There’s also a smaller airport in Trento, and several helicopter ports are located near the town. While Cortina doesn’t have its own train station, bus services are available from nearby stations like Belluno and Dobbiaco. Renting a car provides the most flexibility for exploring the surrounding region, but if your focus is on skiing, hiking, and enjoying Cortina itself, you can manage without one by utilizing local transport.
Getting Around
Cortina d’Ampezzo’s town center is quite compact and easily navigable on foot. If your accommodation is situated outside the immediate town center, inquire about shuttle services to town or to the nearest ski lifts. The local DolomitiBus service connects various ski areas and provides inter-town transportation. For taxis and private transfers, consulting the Cortina Dolomiti website for approved partners is recommended. This system makes it easy to get from your hotel to the slopes or into town for dinner.
Cortina d’Ampezzo offers an unforgettable blend of natural beauty, exhilarating activities, and refined Italian charm. It’s a destination that truly lives up to its regal nickname, providing a memorable experience for every traveler. I can definitely see why families and couples alike are drawn to its unique appeal.