Cortina d’Ampezzo, often called the “Queen of the Dolomites,” is a legendary mountain resort nestled in northern Italy. Its setting, surrounded by the jagged peaks of the Dolomites UNESCO World Heritage Site, draws travelers seeking both natural beauty and stylish mountain culture. Cortina is globally recognized for its world-class skiing in winter and mountain sports during summer, all framed by elegant town life and a vibrant social scene.
The town has a storied history as a host of the 1956 Winter Olympics and remains a fixture on the international sports calendar, with upcoming events like the 2026 Winter Olympics. Visitors are drawn to its spectacular skiing and snowboarding, but there’s plenty beyond the slopes: mountain biking, hiking, and via ferrata routes in warmer months open the Dolomites to adventure seekers of all levels. In town, chic boutiques, art galleries, and excellent dining venues promise memorable experiences off the mountain, blending traditional Ladin culture with Italian flair.
Local life in Cortina balances mountain ruggedness with a cosmopolitan vibe. Après-ski culture is integral, with cozy bars and lively outdoor terraces bustling in the evenings. The town’s architecture showcases historic alpine chalets set alongside refined hotels and fashionable shops, making strolling along Corso Italia a pleasure. The area is also known for its culinary scene, with everything from rustic mountain huts to high-end restaurants serving specialties like casunziei (beetroot ravioli) and delicious strudel.
For visitors, Cortina is best explored on foot or via local buses that connect the town with outlying ski lifts, trailheads, and hamlets. Accommodation ranges from luxury hotels to charming family-run guesthouses. Dining reservations are recommended, especially in peak seasons. Weekend markets, local festivals, and outdoor concerts are frequent, adding to the town’s vibrant ambiance.
Winter (December–March) transforms Cortina into a snowy wonderland, while summer (June–September) sees wildflowers carpet the meadows and hiking trails thrive. For fewer crowds, visit in late spring or early autumn when the scenery is still stunning and the pace more relaxed. Don’t forget to dress in layers – mountain weather changes quickly, and evenings can be crisp even in summer.
The town has a storied history as a host of the 1956 Winter Olympics and remains a fixture on the international sports calendar, with upcoming events like the 2026 Winter Olympics. Visitors are drawn to its spectacular skiing and snowboarding, but there’s plenty beyond the slopes: mountain biking, hiking, and via ferrata routes in warmer months open the Dolomites to adventure seekers of all levels. In town, chic boutiques, art galleries, and excellent dining venues promise memorable experiences off the mountain, blending traditional Ladin culture with Italian flair.
Local life in Cortina balances mountain ruggedness with a cosmopolitan vibe. Après-ski culture is integral, with cozy bars and lively outdoor terraces bustling in the evenings. The town’s architecture showcases historic alpine chalets set alongside refined hotels and fashionable shops, making strolling along Corso Italia a pleasure. The area is also known for its culinary scene, with everything from rustic mountain huts to high-end restaurants serving specialties like casunziei (beetroot ravioli) and delicious strudel.
For visitors, Cortina is best explored on foot or via local buses that connect the town with outlying ski lifts, trailheads, and hamlets. Accommodation ranges from luxury hotels to charming family-run guesthouses. Dining reservations are recommended, especially in peak seasons. Weekend markets, local festivals, and outdoor concerts are frequent, adding to the town’s vibrant ambiance.
Winter (December–March) transforms Cortina into a snowy wonderland, while summer (June–September) sees wildflowers carpet the meadows and hiking trails thrive. For fewer crowds, visit in late spring or early autumn when the scenery is still stunning and the pace more relaxed. Don’t forget to dress in layers – mountain weather changes quickly, and evenings can be crisp even in summer.
Expected Weekly Budget
$1400-$2000 USD (per person, excluding flights)
Known For
Things to Do
- Ski or snowboard the Dolomiti Superski slopes
- Hike panoramic mountain trails such as Cinque Torri
- Try via ferrata climbing on dramatic Dolomite routes
- Enjoy après-ski at lively bars and cafés
- Shop Italian fashion and outdoor gear on Corso Italia
- Indulge in regional cuisine at mountain rifugi
- Mountain bike on scenic alpine trails
- Visit art galleries and cultural exhibitions
Notable Sites
- Tofana di Mezzo
- Cinque Torri
- Corso Italia
- Faloria Cable Car
- Museo d’Arte Moderna Mario Rimoldi
- Basilica Minore dei Santi Filippo e Giacomo
- Lagazuoi Cable Car
- Parco Naturale delle Dolomiti d’Ampezzo
General Advice
Cortina d’Ampezzo is a destination where planning ahead enhances the experience, especially in peak ski season. Make ski rental and accommodation bookings well in advance, particularly during major holidays. The town’s walkable center means you can leave your car parked for most of your stay, and public shuttles provide access to outlying lifts and hiking points. English is widely spoken in hospitality venues, but learning a few Italian pleasantries is appreciated. Keep cash on hand for small purchases, as not all establishments accept cards.
Security & Safety
Cortina d’Ampezzo is considered safe, with low rates of petty crime. Nevertheless, it’s wise to keep personal belongings secure, especially during crowded events or in public transport. When hiking or skiing, always check current weather and avalanche advisories, and never venture into remote areas alone or off marked trails. In winter, be cautious of icy sidewalks and roadways. Medical facilities are good, but carry insurance that covers mountain sports just in case.
Travel Tips
- Book accommodation early, especially during ski season or major events.
- Pack layers and waterproof gear—weather changes quickly in the Dolomites.
- Buy a Dolomiti Superski pass for ski and lift discounts.
- Local buses and ski shuttles make it easy to reach lifts and trailheads.
- Try traditional Ladin dishes at mountain rifugi for an authentic meal.
- Reservations are recommended at popular restaurants in high season.
- Bring sturdy hiking boots if visiting outside winter.
- ATMs are available but can have lines—carry some cash for small purchases.
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Traveler Comments
Visited in February 2024
I finally got to ski in Cortina, and it totally lived up to the hype! The views from Tofana di Mezzo were incredible. Après-ski was lively, but the town did get quite busy over the weekends. Loved the mix of Italian style and mountain charm.
Traveled here in July 2023
Spent a week hiking with friends and every trail felt like a postcard. We especially enjoyed Cinque Torri and the panoramic views from Lagazuoi. Food at the rifugi was a highlight—those beetroot ravioli are a must! Can't wait to return.
Traveled here in December 2023
My family loved Cortina’s festive atmosphere around Christmas. The kids took ski lessons and I wandered the markets along Corso Italia. It is pricey, but worth it for the mountain magic and great service everywhere.
Stayed in March 2024
Great base for exploring the Dolomites—so many cable cars and lifts. We did some via ferrata climbs and felt totally safe with the guides. Town is beautiful, though parking was sometimes a challenge. Restaurants were fantastic!
Visited in September 2023
Cortina in early autumn was pure bliss. Fewer crowds, lots of sunshine, and the colors in the mountains were gorgeous. Stayed in a family-run guesthouse with awesome breakfasts. Highly recommend visiting outside peak ski season.
Traveled here in January 2024
I came for the skiing but ended up loving the town’s relaxed vibe, too. Easy to get around by bus, and everyone was friendly even though my Italian is basic. Only took off half a star because the slopes were very busy after fresh snow.
Visited in August 2023
Hiking in Parco Naturale delle Dolomiti d’Ampezzo was a highlight of our trip. Found it easy to get trail maps and tips at the tourist office. A bit expensive for budget travelers, but we saved by making picnic lunches some days.
Stayed in June 2023
Beautiful place and great for mountain sports, but I found the nightlife quieter than expected. Maybe it’s more lively in winter. Still, the landscape is jaw-dropping and I loved the cable car rides up the mountains.
Visited in February 2024
My partner and I had a fantastic romantic getaway here. Cozy evenings by the fire after days on the slopes. Prices are definitely upmarket, but it felt special. Make dinner reservations ahead during winter!
Traveled here in October 2023
Incredible hiking and photography spots everywhere. I loved the mix of traditional and modern art at the Mario Rimoldi museum. Local bus system was super convenient for getting to different trailheads.
Visited in December 2023
Went with friends for a ski trip and really appreciated the variety of runs for different skill levels. The town gets busy over the holidays, so dinner was sometimes a wait. Would go back for both winter and summer activities.
Stayed in March 2024
The mountain scenery is simply dramatic. We spent hours at Museo d’Arte Moderna and then sipped hot chocolate people-watching on Corso Italia. Not cheap, but totally worth it for the experience and memories.
Traveled here in May 2023
Came in late spring—perfect time for wildflower hikes and less crowded lifts. Staff at our hotel gladly helped arrange guided climbing tours. Truly a world-class outdoor destination with Italian hospitality.
Visited in January 2024
Spent a solo weekend skiing and wandering art galleries, felt safe and welcomed everywhere. Only downside was some steep prices, but you pay for the setting. Tried casunziei for the first time—delicious!
Visited in July 2023
Excellent for families! Our children loved hiking the kid-friendly trails and playing in the alpine meadows. Many restaurants had children’s menus and staff were super helpful. Bring sunscreen—the sun is strong even in the mountains.
Stayed in September 2023
Absolutely loved the peaceful vibe after summer crowds left. Enjoyed local markets and a hike to Lake Sorapis. Local hotel staff gave us great insider tips for quieter viewpoints.
Traveled here in February 2024
Fantastic slopes for all levels and well-organized lift system. We hit some icy patches in the afternoons, but rental shops had good equipment. Enjoyed mixing skiing with afternoons exploring the shops and cafés.
Visited in June 2023
Breathtaking hikes and plenty of spots for picnics. Staff at the visitor center were extremely friendly and helpful. Only suggestion: check the weather each morning, as storms can roll in fast.
Stayed in December 2023
Great Christmas markets and decorations made our holiday special. Town was crowded, but it added to the festive feeling. If you want a quieter experience, maybe pick a less-busy weekend.
Traveled here in August 2023
Enjoyed mountain biking and the excellent food scene. We hired bikes in the center and got great advice from locals. Would love to try a winter trip next time!
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