Full Day Tour Cortina & Dolomites

Explore the Majestic Dolomites on a Full-Day Tour from Venice

This full-day tour to Cortina and the Dolomites offers a perfect escape from Venice’s busy streets. Priced at $385.22 per person, it spans approximately 8 hours, beginning early in the morning with a round trip transfer by air-conditioned minivan. The tour includes photo stops, free time at key locations, and a bilingual driver to guide you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Italy.

One of the standout features is the tour’s ability to balance relaxing scenery with cultural highlights. The itinerary covers lakes, charming towns, and mountain villages, making it suitable for those seeking a comprehensive day trip. While the tour doesn’t include lunch or guide services at each stop, the passive exploration and stunning vistas compensate for that.

A notable strength is the flexibility at stops, with options like a panoramic chairlift (tickets not included) to Col del Varda at 2106 meters. The tour’s small group size—with a maximum of 16 travelers—ensures a comfortable and intimate experience.

Key Points

• Cost and Duration: Priced at $385.22, the tour lasts about 8 hours with convenient round-trip transfer from Venice.
• Scenic Lakes and Towns: Visits include Lake Santa Croce, Pieve di Cadore, Lake Auronzo, and Lake Misurina.
• Cultural Highlights: Stops include Pieve di Cadore, the birthplace of Titian, and Cortina d’Ampezzo, a renowned ski resort.
• Scenic Vistas and Photo Opportunities: Pass through tunnels and viewpoints offering panoramic views of valleys, canyons, and mountains.
• Optional Activities: Take a chairlift to Col del Varda for additional mountain views—tickets are payable on site.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 16 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and less crowding.

Starting Point and Meeting Arrangements

The tour departs from Rio Terà Sant’Andrea, 460, Venice, at 8:30 am. The shared nature of the tour means no hotel pickup or drop-off is included, but the meeting point is near public transportation for easy access. The return is back at the original meeting point, making logistics straightforward for most travelers.

Transport and Comfort During the Day

Traveling in a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan, participants enjoy smooth transfers between locations. The bilingual driver enhances the experience with informative commentary in multiple languages. The photo stops are well-timed to maximize sightseeing without feeling rushed, giving guests ample opportunity to capture the stunning landscapes.

Visiting Lake Santa Croce and Its Outdoor Activities

The journey begins at Lake Santa Croce, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and mountain scenery. This lake is popular for windsurfing, sailing, fishing, and hiking, making it a versatile spot for outdoor lovers. Its tranquil environment offers a peaceful start to the day with breathtaking views of the Dolomite peaks reflected in the waters.

Exploring Pieve di Cadore, Birthplace of Titian

Next, the tour reaches Pieve di Cadore, a historic town famous for being the birthplace of the Renaissance painter Titian. The town’s charming streets and local atmosphere provide an excellent opportunity for a brief stroll, with the option to enjoy a cappuccino or explore local shops. The area’s serene setting makes for a relaxing break before continuing through the mountains.

Visiting Lake Auronzo and Its Dam

The journey advances to Lake Auronzo, a man-made reservoir created by a 55-meter dam built in the 1930s. The lake extends over two kilometers and is noted for its pristine waters and spectacular mountain backdrop. The dam also features a historic chapel dedicated to St. Christina from the 1500s, adding a touch of history to the scenery.

Leisure Time at Lake Misurina

Lake Misurina offers a leisurely lakeside walk or the option for an uphill chairlift ride (tickets not included) to Col del Varda at 2,106 meters. This altitude spot presents spectacular views of Tre Cime di Lavaredo, Sorapis, and Marmole. The lake’s shallow waters (depth of about 5 meters) are perfect for boating and sport fishing during summer months.

Cortina d’Ampezzo: The Famous Ski Resort

The tour’s final major stop is Cortina d’Ampezzo, a renowned alpine town famous for skiing and outdoor sports. With approximately 5,954 inhabitants, Cortina offers a blend of luxury shopping, cafés, and spectacular mountain scenery. Its large area (254.51 km²) and low population density make it feel spacious and less crowded, perfect for exploring at your own pace during the free time.

Optional Panoramic Chairlift Experience

In Lake Misurina, travelers can opt for a chairlift ride to Col del Varda—a cable car journey that adds another layer of mountain vistas. Although tickets are payable on site, this activity provides a chance to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Dolomites at over 2100 meters elevation.

Practical Details and Booking Tips

This tour is suitable for most travelers, with most participants able to join. It is not designed for hotel pickups or drop-offs, making it ideal for those based in Venice or nearby. The small group size helps maintain a relaxed atmosphere, and photo stops are strategically placed to maximize sightseeing.

Most bookings are made 44 days in advance, reflecting high interest among travelers eager to explore the Dolomites. The free cancellation policy allows for flexibility, with full refunds available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Final Thoughts on the Full Day Cortina & Dolomites Tour

This 8-hour excursion offers a rich experience of the Italian Alps, combining scenic lakes, mountain villages, and the glamour of Cortina. The tour’s small group format, expert driver, and carefully chosen stops make it a practical option for those who want to enjoy a comprehensive day trip from Venice.

While there is no guide service at each stop, the scenic beauty and sightseeing opportunities compensate. Travelers who appreciate stunning landscapes, outdoor activities, and relaxed pacing will find this tour rewarding. However, those seeking guided tours at every location or luxury dining might prefer other options.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of this tour?
The tour costs $385.22 per person.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 8 hours.

What locations does the tour visit?
Stops include Lake Santa Croce, Pieve di Cadore, Lake Auronzo, Lake Misurina, and Cortina d’Ampezzo.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included and must be paid for separately at restaurants during the free time.

Are tickets for activities like the chairlift included?
No, tickets for the chairlift to Col del Varda are payable on site and not included in the tour price.

What is the meeting point?
The tour starts at Rio Terà Sant’Andrea, 460, Venice.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but it is advisable to consider physical ability for walking and outdoor activities.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

What is the group size limit?
The maximum number of participants is 16 travelers.

How do I book this tour?
Reservations can be made online, with most bookings occurring 44 days in advance for high availability.

This full-day Cortina & Dolomites tour offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty and cultural highlights, making it an excellent choice for travelers eager to experience the majestic mountain landscapes of Italy.