Visiting the Dolomites and the Northern Alps is like stepping into a living postcard — where jagged peaks kiss the sky, emerald lakes mirror the clouds, and every trail leads to breathtaking beauty. It’s a haven for nature lovers, offering serenity, adventure, and awe in every direction.
Here’s a list of places you can include in your Dolomites itinerary.
Exploring the Dolomites without a car might sound challenging at first, but trust me — it’s absolutely possible and gratifying! I recently explored this magical corner of northern Italy using only public transport, and I was amazed at how easy (and eco-friendly!) it was to get around.
The Dolomites are full of postcard-perfect peaks, dreamy alpine meadows, and cozy mountain huts — and with a little planning, you can experience it all without ever turning a car key.
So, if you’re planning your first trip to the Dolomites, here’s your complete guide to traveling around this stunning region without a car — where to go, how to reach each destination, and how to make the most of your adventure.
1. Tre Cime di Lavaredo – The Iconic Three Peaks
If you’ve ever seen a picture of the Dolomites, it’s probably of Tre Cime di Lavaredo — those three majestic limestone peaks towering over the landscape.
What to Do:
Hike the Tre Cime Loop Trail (approx. 10 km) for breathtaking views, visit the mountain huts for local dishes, and enjoy sunset views that turn the peaks golden.
The Three Peaks consist of three distinct summits, each with its own name and height:
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Cima Grande (Middle Peak) – 2,999 meters (9,839 feet)
→ The tallest and most famous of the three. -
Cima Ovest (Western Peak) – 2,973 meters (9,754 feet)
→ Slightly lower but known for its dramatic vertical face. -
Cima Piccola (Small Peak) – 2,857 meters (9,373 feet)
→ The smallest of the trio, but equally striking.
How to Get There (Without a Car)
- Pro Tip: Book your bus ticket early during summer — it fills up fast!
- From Dobbiaco/Toblach, take Bus 444 to Rifugio Auronzo, the trailhead.
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Runs every 30–60 minutes (June–September).
2. Seceda
Seceda is one of the most photographed spots in the Dolomites — with its dramatic jagged ridges and sweeping green meadows, it feels almost unreal.
What to Do:
Take the Seceda cable car from Ortisei to the top, walk along the ridge, and enjoy the spectacular 360° mountain views.
How to Reach: Take Bus 350 from Bolzano to Ortisei (Val Gardena). From there, it’s a short walk to the cable car station that goes up to Seceda. The bus runs hourly all year round.
3. Val Gardena
Val Gardena is the heart of the Dolomites — home to charming alpine towns, hiking trails, and ski slopes. It’s also a great base if you’re traveling without a car.
What to Do:
Stay in Ortisei, Santa Cristina, or Selva di Val Gardena. From here, you can easily explore neighboring mountains like Seceda and Alpe di Siusi.
How to Reach: From Bolzano, take Bus 350 to Val Gardena (about 1 hour.There are also connections from Bressanone/Brixen and Chiusa/Klausen.
4. Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Alm)
This is Europe’s largest high-altitude alpine meadow — a dreamland of rolling green hills and wooden huts surrounded by mountains.
What to Do:
Go hiking, rent an e-bike, or just relax with a cappuccino at a mountain hut while soaking up the view of Sassolungo.
How to Reach:Take Bus 170 from Bolzano or Castelrotto to Siusi.From Siusi, ride the Alpe di Siusi cable car up to the plateau.
Note: Private cars are restricted from entering the area during the day, making it perfect for car-free travelers!
5. Pragser Wildsee
Why go
Set in the heart of the Dolomites, Pragser Wildsee is often described as one of the most beautiful alpine lakes in the region. Enormous mountains, charming wooden boats on the mirror-like water, and a well-known circular walk around the lake make it a must-visit.
What to do
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Walk the path around the lake (relatively easy).
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Rent a row-boat on the lake (especially great early morning).
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Hike further: e.g., up into the valley of the lake, or connect to trails in the nature park.
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Photography: the reflections of the peaks in the water are iconic.
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Relax at the lakeshore: take in the view, bring a picnic (respecting the nature-park rules).
How to reach without a car
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Use the public bus route 442: from Dobbiaco/Toblach or from Villabassa/Niederdorf (depending on your start).
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Tickets may be purchased on the bus (cash only) during many periods.
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Important note (summer/high-season): Between roughly 10 July and 10 Sept, access to the valley may require advance booking of the bus/shuttle.
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For example: From Toblach to Pragser Wildsee via line 442.
Tips
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If you’re staying overnight nearby, get there with public transport or by bike/foot for a stress-free option.
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Respect the nature-park rules: swimming may be discouraged (to protect the ecosystem) at Pragser Wildsee.
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Check the official website or local tourism board for the up-to-date bus schedule and any required bookings.
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If you’re hiking further from the lake, bring adequate footwear and water.
6. Lake Carezza ( Karersee) Lago di Carezza: Lake of Rainbows
Why go
Lake Carezza is a smaller, enchanting alpine lake just off the road between Welschnofen/Nova Levante and the Karer Pass. Its emerald green/blue water, reflections of surrounding peaks, and easy access make it a perfect stop for half a day or a relaxed outing.
What to do
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Walk the loop around the lake on the designated trail: easy, accessible for many fitness levels.
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Pause at scenic viewpoints and the suspension bridge which gives a nice vantage.
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Photography: the changing light, colour of the water, and reflections make it very photogenic.
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Visit in different seasons — in autumn and winter it has a different, serene character.
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For those staying nearby, combine with other valley walks or ski/hike excursions in the area.
How to reach without a car
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Use public bus line 180: from Bolzano (Bozen) or from Val di Fassa direction to Karer See/Lago di Carezza.
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Other connecting lines: 184 and 181 with a change onto line 180.
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At the bus stop: “Welschnofen / Nova Levante, Lago di Carezza” is the designated.
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From Bolzano: takes about 50-60 minutes,
Tips
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Because it’s easy to get to, it can get busy — aim for early morning or later afternoon for a more peaceful visit.
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Wear comfortable walking shoes: the path is easy, but you’ll still want to enjoy it.
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If staying in Bolzano or nearby valleys, this makes a convenient half-day trip without needing a car.
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Check the bus timetable in advance (via the “suedtirolmobil” site) to ensure the connections.
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If you’re combining both lakes in a trip: note that Lake Carezza is more accessible; Pragser Wildsee is more remote and may require more time and planning
7. Giau Pass (Passo Giau)
One of the most scenic mountain passes in the Dolomites, Passo Giau offers panoramic views that are pure magic — especially at sunrise or sunset.
What to Do:
Stop for photos, enjoy a short hike, or have lunch at Rifugio Passo Giau, one of the cozy mountain huts.
How to Reach:
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From Cortina d’Ampezzo, take Bus 30 or 31 toward Passo Giau.
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The route is open seasonally (usually June–October), and the ride takes about an hour.
8. Cinque Torri
The “Five Towers” is one of the most unique rock formations in the Dolomites and a must-visit for hikers and history lovers alike.
What to Do:
Walk around the Cinque Torri open-air museum, which showcases World War I trenches and bunkers, or hike up to the Rifugio Scoiattoli for lunch with a view.
How to Reach:
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From Cortina, take Bus 30/31 to Bai de Dones, then ride the Cinque Torri chairlift up to the towers.
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If you prefer hiking, you can walk up from the bus stop (about 1 hour).
🚌 Bus Services for Dolomites Travel
Here’s a quick reference guide to the most useful bus routes for exploring the Dolomites without a car:
| Route | Bus Number | Frequency | Operating Months | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dobbiaco → Rifugio Auronzo (Tre Cime) | 444 | Every 30–60 min | June–Sept | Book ahead during peak season |
| Bolzano → Val Gardena (Ortisei) | 350 | Hourly | Year-round | Connects with train from Verona/Bolzano |
| Siusi → Alpe di Siusi | 170 | Every 20–30 min | May–Oct | Cable car connection to plateau |
| Cortina → Passo Giau | 30/31 | Every 60 min | June–Oct | Check seasonal schedule |
| Cortina → Cinque Torri (Bai de Dones) | 30/31 | Every 60 min | June–Oct | Chairlift connection to Cinque Torri |
| Ortisei → Seceda Cable Car | Local Bus | Every 20 min | Year-round | Easy access to cable car base |
🚍 Useful Websites and Apps for Bus Schedules
To check updated bus times and routes, use these reliable resources:
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Südtirol Mobil – for buses and trains in South Tyrol (Bolzano, Val Gardena, Alpe di Siusi).
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Dolomiti Bus – for routes around Cortina d’Ampezzo, Passo Giau, and Cinque Torri.
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Trenitalia – for train connections to Bolzano, Bressanone, and Dobbiaco.
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Apps: Google Maps, Südtirol Mobil App, and Omio also work great for planning and booking tickets. (not paid opinion it’s my personal experience)
🌿 Final Thoughts
Traveling through the Dolomites without a car is not only doable — it’s one of the best ways to truly experience the beauty of this region. You’ll travel at a slower pace, reduce your environmental footprint, and have time to connect with locals and nature along the way.
So pack light, download your bus schedules, and get ready to fall in love with one of the most breathtaking mountain landscapes in the world.
Happy travels — and see you on the trail! 🏞️✨