Visit Cortina From Venice

In the heart of the Dolomites, Cortina d’Ampezzo is a stunning mountain retreat just a couple of hours from Venice. Whether you’re seeking an adventurous escape or a relaxing weekend surrounded by breathtaking scenery, this alpine gem offers an unforgettable experience. In this guide, we’ll explore how to visit to Cortina from Venice, where to stay, and the best activities to make the most of your trip.

How to Get to Cortina d’Ampezzo from Venice

There are two main ways to reach Cortina from Venice:

By Bus: The most convenient and budget-friendly option is taking the Cortina Express or FlixBus, which operate direct routes from Venice’s Piazzale Roma and Marco Polo Airport. The journey takes approximately 2–2.5 hours, offering stunning views along the way. Bus schedules vary depending on the season, with more frequent departures in winter and summer.
By Private Car: Renting a car allows for more flexibility, especially if you plan to explore the surrounding Dolomites. The drive from Venice to Cortina takes about 2 hours via the A27 motorway and SS51 road. In winter, ensure your car is equipped with snow tires or chains, as mountain roads can be icy.

Where to Stay in Cortina

Cortina d’Ampezzo offers a range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to charming mountain lodges. Here are some great examples:

Luxury: Cristallo, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa – A five-star retreat with incredible spa facilities and panoramic views.
Mid-Range: Hotel de la Poste – A historic hotel in the town center, perfect for those who want to be close to restaurants and shops.
Budget-Friendly: Rifugio Lagazuoi – A mountain refuge offering breathtaking views and an unforgettable alpine experience.

Where to Eat in Cortina

Cortina d’Ampezzo offers a fantastic culinary scene that blends traditional Alpine flavours with refined Italian cuisine.

For an authentic mountain dining experience Rifugio Averau serves exceptional local dishes like casunziei (beet-filled ravioli) with breathtaking Dolomite views.
SanBrite, a Michelin-starred gem, focuses on sustainable, farm-to-table cuisine with creative takes on regional ingredients.
El Brite de Larieto, its rustic counterpart, offers hearty dishes like polenta with venison in a cozy alpine setting.
For fine dining, Ristorante Tivoli is an elegant choice, known for its sophisticated Italian dishes and excellent wine selection.
Lastly, Al Camin is a must-visit for its warm ambiance and expertly crafted Ladin and Venetian specialties, making it perfect for a memorable evening in the heart of the Dolomites.

Best Things to Do in Cortina

Winter Activities (December – March)

Skiing & Snowboarding – Cortina is part of the Dolomiti Superski area, featuring 120 km of slopes with stunning backdrops.
Snowshoeing & Winter Hiking – Explore scenic trails like Cinque Torri or Tre Cime di Lavaredo.
Après-Ski & Cozy Cafés – Enjoy a hot chocolate at Pasticceria Alverà or Paticceria Lovat on the stylish street of Corso Italia.

Summer Activities (June – September)

Hiking & Trekking – Trails like Lago di Sorapiss and Croda da Lago offer some of the best views in the Dolomites. For more hiking trails click here.
Cycling & Mountain Biking – Ride along the Lunga Via delle Dolomiti, a scenic route through breathtaking landscapes.
Rock Climbing & Via Ferrata – Test your skills on famous climbing routes like the Dolomites Via Ferrata Giovanni Lipella. For more rock-climbing routes click here.

Year-Round Activities

Shopping in Corso Italia – Browse high-end boutiques, local craft stores, and traditional Alpine souvenirs.
Day Trip to Misurina Lake – A short drive from Cortina, this stunning lake offers postcard-worthy reflections of the mountains.
Wellness & Spa Retreats – Relax at the spa in Cristallo Resort or indulge in thermal treatments at Dolomiti Lodge Alverà.

Tips for Your Cortina Getaway

Book accommodations early during peak ski season (December–February) and summer holidays (July-August).
Dress in layers – even in summer, temperatures can drop in the mountains.
Try local cuisine – taste Casunziei (beet-filled ravioli) and Speck (smoked ham) at a traditional rifugio.
Check weather conditions before hiking or skiing, as mountain weather can change rapidly.

Final tips

A trip from Venice to Cortina d’Ampezzo is a perfect way to experience the beauty of the Dolomites in just a couple of days. Whether you’re hitting the slopes in winter, hiking in summer, or simply soaking in the alpine charm, Cortina promises an unforgettable escape.

And before or after your trip to Cortina from Venice, don’t forget to book a once-in-a-lifetime boat tour with Vidal Venice Tours by dropping us a message here!