If you’re planning a trip to the Dolomites in Italy, chances are the most daunting aspect is figuring out transportation. Before my visit, I also struggled with where to start and how to get around once I arrived. And don’t even get me started on the sheer number of transportation passes—like the much-talked-about Summer Pass! So today, I’m sharing an all-inclusive guide to the Dolomites’ public transportation, cable cars, and various passes, which will make planning your trip a breeze.
Table of Contents
Weather in the Dolomites
The Dolomites have two distinct travel seasons:
- Summer: Perfect for hiking and enjoying the vibrant landscapes of mountains and lakes.
- Winter: Renowned for skiing and an array of snow-filled activities.
This guide focuses on the summer season, as that’s when I personally visited the Dolomites.
What to Expect in Summer
Most villages in the Dolomites are situated at an altitude of approximately 1,200 m (3,937 ft), which keeps the temperatures comfortably mild. While it rarely gets overwhelmingly hot, mornings and evenings can be brisk, so it’s best to be prepared for cooler conditions. Higher-altitude destinations, such as Seceda, are even cooler, with daytime highs in summer rarely exceeding 20°C (68°F).
As is typical of mountain regions, the weather in the Dolomites is highly unpredictable. From June to September, it’s common to experience suddenly shifting conditions, such as a morning rain shower followed by bright sunshine—all within the same day.
Packing Recommendations
When packing for a summer trip to the Dolomites, aim for lightweight yet versatile clothing:
- T-shirts: Great for warm daytime hikes.
- Long pants: For cooler temperatures or evenings.
- Lightweight jacket: Ideal for early mornings and breezy evenings.
- Waterproof raincoat: A must-have for surprise downpours typical of mountain weather.
This combination ensures you’re prepared for the Dolomites’ changing weather while staying comfortable throughout your outdoor adventures.
How to Get to the Dolomites
Though the Dolomites sit in the northernmost part of Italy and are surrounded by mountainous terrain, they are surprisingly well-connected from most major cities. Here are some of the easiest ways to reach the Dolomites.
By Train
Traveling to the Dolomites by train is one of the most convenient and scenic options. Here are the major railway hubs and routes to help you plan your journey:
1. Bolzano (Bozen)
Bolzano, located on the western edge of the Dolomites, serves as a primary entry point and connects seamlessly to other major Italian cities.
- From Rome: Direct trains are available (approximately 5 hours, 40€ if booked in advance).
- From Florence (Firenze): Accessible via the same Rome-Bolzano route.
- From Verona: Convenient direct trains to Bolzano make it a great option for travelers from northern Italy.
- From Bologna: Direct trains to Bolzano are available.
- From Milan (Milano): A transfer is needed in Verona.
2. Bressanone (Brixen)
For those seeking to stay closer to the heart of the Dolomites, Bressanone is an excellent alternative to Bolzano.
- From Verona: Direct trains are available to Bressanone, offering easy access to the Dolomites and cutting travel times for destinations more central to the region.
By Bus
If you’re heading to the eastern Dolomites, Cortina d’Ampezzo is a key destination. Convenient bus options include:
- From Venice (Venezia): The ATVO bus connects Venice to Cortina in just 2.5 hours.
Transportation Within the Dolomites
Traveling through the Dolomites is remarkably convenient, thanks to an efficient network of public transportation that connects even remote areas. Here’s a guide to navigating the region using buses and trains.
Buses & Trains
One of the most surprising aspects of visiting the Dolomites is how accessible the region is via public transportation. Despite its rugged, mountainous terrain, buses and trains serve nearly every corner, giving travelers a practical and eco-friendly way to explore this stunning destination.
Südtirol Guest Pass
Many accommodations in the Dolomites participate in the Südtirol Guest Pass program. If your lodging offers this free pass, you’re in luck! It provides unlimited rides on buses and regional trains for up to seven days. With over 1,000 partner accommodations, there’s a good chance your hotel will participate. To learn more, visit the official Südtirol Information website.
Mobilcard
If your accommodation doesn’t include the Guest Pass, you can purchase the Mobilcard, a convenient and affordable travel pass for public transportation. The pricing for 2026 is as follows:
- 1-day pass: €22 (Adult), €11 (Junior 6-14)
- 3-day pass: €32 (Adult), €16 (Junior 6-14)
- 7-day pass: €52 (Adult), €26 (Junior 6-14)
Compared to the expensive travel passes offered in neighboring Switzerland, the Mobilcard is a budget-friendly option for exploring the Dolomites. You can purchase it online through the Südtirol Mobil App, at tourist offices, or from ticket vending machines at major stations.
Insider Tip
When navigating the Dolomites, don’t rely solely on Google Maps, as it’s not always accurate for local transit routes. Instead, download the Südtirol Mobil App, a locally managed service that offers the most reliable information for public transportation in the region. If you prefer, you can also access key features directly on their official website.
Cable Cars in the Dolomites
As a mountainous region, the Dolomites have an extensive network of cable cars that make it easy to access the most beautiful viewpoints without strenuous hiking. Even if hiking isn’t your thing, you can still soak in the breathtaking scenery.
Where to Find Cable Car Information
Since operation schedules differ by region, it can sometimes be confusing. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, make sure to visit the Dolomiti Supersummer’s website.
1. Ortisei – Alpe di Siusi Cable Car
- Operating Hours 2026
- May 1 – June 5: 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM
- June 6 – October 16: 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM
- October 17 – November 2: 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM
- Ticket Prices 2026
- Adults: €29 one-way, €41 round trip
- Children (8–14 years): €20.30 one-way, €28.70 round trip
- Children under 8: Free if accompanied by paying parents
Ortisei & Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Alm): Cable Cars, Hiking Trails, and More
2. Ortisei – Seceda Cable Car (Via Furnes)
- Operating Hours 2026
- May 22–November 2: 8:00 AM–6:00 PM
- Ticket Prices 2026
- Round Trip: €74 (Adult), €37 (Child 8–15), Free (Under 7)
- One Way: €49 (Adult), €25 (Child 8–15), Free (Under 7)
Seceda Dolomites: Cable Cars, Hiking & Wildflowers in 2026
3. Col Raiser Cable Car
- Operating Hours
- May 22–June 13: 8:30 AM–5:00 PM
- June 14–September 13: 8:30 AM–5:30 PM
- September 14–October 11: 8:30 AM–5:00 PM
- October 12–November 1: 8:30 AM–4:30 PM
- Ticket Prices
- Round Trip: €34 (Adult), €18 (Child 6–13), Free (Under 6)
- One Way: €23 (Adult), €14 (Child 6–13), Free (Under 6)
Best Cable Car Summer Passes in the Dolomites
Plan to explore the breathtaking Dolomites using multiple cable cars? Save time and money with these top summer passes. Compare the options below to find the perfect fit for your adventure.
1. Supersummer Card
- Coverage: ALL Dolomite cable cars—perfect for exploring multiple areas.
- Best For: Exploring multiple regions without worrying about individual tickets.
- Flexibility:
- 3-Day Pass: Use on any 3 days within a 4-day period.
- 5-Day Pass: Use on any 5 days within a 7-day period.
- Visit the Dolomiti Supersummer website for more details or to purchase your pass.
| Pass Type | Adult | Junior (Ages 9–16) | Under 8 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-Day Pass | €67 | €47 | Free |
| 3-Day Pass | €145 | €102 | Free |
| 5-Day Pass | €185 | €130 | Free |
Tre Cime di Lavaredo Hike: How to Get There, Bus Info & Map
2. Cortina Vertical Pass
- Coverage: Cable cars in Cortina d’Ampezzo, including popular spots like Cinque Torri and Lagazuoi.
- Best For: Travelers focusing on Cortina exclusively or staying in the area.
- Online tickets are available at the Cortina Skiworld website.
| Pass Type | Adult | Junior (Ages 9–16) | Under 8 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-Day Pass | €52 | €36 | Free |
| 3-Day Pass | €125 | €88 | Free |
| 5-Day Pass | €180 | €126 | Free |
| 7-Day Pass | €235 | €165 | Free |
Lago di Braies & Lago di Landro: 2026 Guide to Dolomites Lakes
3. Gardena Card
- Coverage: Cable cars in the Val Gardena region.
- Best For: Visitors exploring Val Gardena exclusively.
- Learn more at the Official Val Gardena website.
| Pass Type | Adult | Junior (Ages 9–16) | Under 8 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3-Day Pass | €124 | €87 | €5 |
| 6-Day Pass | €160 | €112 | €5 |
Note: Some lifts within the Alpe di Siusi plateau require separate tickets. If you plan to explore the Alpe di Siusi plateau extensively, the Supersummer Card might offer better value.
Quick Comparison Table 2026
| Pass | Best For | Coverage | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Supersummer Card | Multi-regions, flexibility | All Dolomites cable cars | €67–€185 |
| Cortina Vertical Pass | Cortina d’Ampezzo-focused adventures | Cable cars in Cortina area | €52–€235 |
| Gardena Card | Val Gardena exclusivity | Cable cars in Val Gardena | €124–€160 |
Final Thoughts
In this guide, we’ve covered all the essentials to planning a trip to the Dolomites, from transportation to weather, cable cars, and passes. Whether you’re visiting for the summer lakes or breathtaking mountain views, knowing how to navigate the Dolomites efficiently will save you time, money, and stress.
Use the tips and resources provided above to craft an unforgettable and budget-friendly adventure in one of Italy’s most stunning regions. Happy travels!
HDND travel
All around the world
