How to go to the Dolomites from Venice?

How to get to the Dolomites from Venice?

An excursion on the journey to Venice will take you to discover the Dolomites, a mountain range famous worldwide for its beauty. You can visit unspoiled valleys and lakes out of time, admiring impressive panoramas until you reach the famous Cortina—a truly unforgettable tour! We will take a break from the wonders of Venice, to visit the Dolomites of Belluno, and discover another excellence of the Veneto region. But how to go to the Dolomites from Venice?Here at Italy’s Dream Tourism we make the trip of your dreams come true!! Also, get to know our Section Accommodation in Italy – Tips for your Vacation!

Introduction

This unprecedented visit to the Dolomites, departing and arriving at Piazzale Roma in Venice, includes some of the famous and charming places to visit in the Dolomites, such as Cortina d’Ampezzo, Lake Misurina, the Three Peaks of Lavaredo, and Lake Auronzo. Also read The Most Beautiful Lakes in the Dolomites!

Useful information

It is advisable to wear comfortable shoes and clothes. In the summer, it is advisable to bring a sunscreen, sunglasses, and a bottle of water, while in the winter, you need to remember an umbrella and clothing suitable for mountain temperatures. Also read: What is the worst time to travel to Italy?

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1) How to go to the Dolomites from Venice? WITH THE TRAIN/BUSES

The nearest train stations in Cortina are Calalzo di Cadore (35 km) and Dobbiaco. Once there, there is a connection service with arrivals and departures, coincidentally to the main cities of the Dolomites. Trains, comfortable and fast, are the service of the transport company that connects Cortina to the train station in Venice – Mestre (in just two hours). The trip from Venice Mestre to Cortina (train plus bus) takes about three and a half hours.

To the north, the railway line is Fortezza – Dobbiaco; in this case, the transfer to Cortina is done by a bus service. The journey time from Fortezza to Cortina is about two hours (train plus bus). It is normal that the rest of the route, such as Lake Misurina, Peaks of Lavaredo and Lake Auronzo, must be made according to the connections with trains or buses, and some circuits can be easily done on foot.

Mountain Trains

A novelty of Trenitalia services. “Mountain trains”: travel on Eurostar Italia from Roma Termini and from Milan to Venice Mestre, where special buses to Cortina are waiting, linked to the arrival and departure times of the train. The only train station in Venice is that of Santa Lucia, which is close to Piazzale Roma (where the bus stations are). The Venice Mestre station is the station previous to Venezia Santa Lucia Station, which is the Venice city station. The Santa Lucia station is connected to the rest of Italy and abroad with Eurostar, Intercity, Interregional, and local trains.

Did you know?

Trenitalia is the main Italian company dedicated to the management of rail transport. Find out here: “What is the difference between trains in Italy?“. Buy your ticket online in advance and save a lot; read the Post “How to buy a train ticket in Italy?”.

There are three bus companies that covers the stretch between Venice and Cortina

Advantages

Ideal option for people who like to do things at their own pace;
For people who are used to traveling mainly by train,
For young people, for those who are backpacking,
And especially for people who want to save money and are in no hurry.

Disadvantages

For families with young children and for elderly people, it ends up being very tiring. I do not recommend!
Having to adapt to the fixed schedules of trains (or buses) for the trip;
Having to go to the tourist spots alone, without knowing the city or speaking the local language;
Time wasted on public buses from railway stations to places where tourist attractions are located or extra money you will spend on taxi once you reach the destination;
And especially the time that is wasted with all these journeys, which could be used to make the most of the visited city!

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2) How to get to the Dolomites from Venice? WITH A GROUP TOUR

In a group tour that offers, more or less, what a private tour offers, the difference is that the city tour has fixed days to carry out the tours. This type of proposal is unique, in terms of quality and benefit, as you will get a much better price since the values can be shared with more people. Group tours are a great alternative for those who do not want to spend so much and for those who are not used to traveling alone and, therefore, prefer to be in a group, where there will be a person who will organize all the tours of the day! That way, you don’t have to worry about anything!

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Advantages

IDEAL option if you are alone, as a couple or with up to seven friends;
To save the time you would spend going to the train stations or with transportation to reach the tourist places to be visited in Pompeii,
Visit of TWO cities on the same day (Naples and Pompeii);
You will be able to enjoy a “bicchiere di vino” (glass of wine) during lunch without having to worry about driving later :), since in Italy the laws are strict against those who drive after they have drunk (even a small amount of alcohol).
Less time spent traveling, with taxis, trains and transportation;
Service with the charm that only Italian people can offer and with the excellence that you are looking for!
If you have children, great! In addition to having a discount, with the guide speaking in English, they will also understand, question, and learn much more than with a local guide! They will love it;
If you are with elderly people or people with limited mobility, this option is ideal, as it requires little movement and, when necessary, you will have all the necessary assistance.

Disadvantage

There is practically none, just the fact of adapting your plans to the program of the day.

Tip

Remember to always read customer testimonials before proceeding with your reservation.

3) How to get to the Dolomites from Venice? WITH A RENTED CAR

If you prefer to do things with more tranquility and freedom of time, you can choose to rent a car to take this tour. But read carefully all our tips and information for renting a car!

How to get there by car?

To reach the Dolomites, we must reach the province of Belluno, along which there are two exits: the first one to Belluno, which allows you to reach some localities in Belluno such as Feltre, Agordo, Alleghe, la Marmolada and Arabba.

The second one (and last station of the A27) is Pian di Vedoia, which allows you to reach Longarone quickly, going straight to the Cadore region with Pieve, Calalzo and Domegge. Around the height of Pieve the road spreads: the left one continues towards San Vito di Cadore and Cortina d’Ampezzo, the right one reaches Auronzo di Cadore and Misurina, the Comelico and Sappada. We must choose the second and proceed to San Vito di Cadore and Cortina d’Ampezzo.

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Attention

In addition, it is important to know that in tourist cities, there are places (historic centers) where PARKING is PROHIBITED, for the exclusive use of the residents of the region! That is why it is important not to go to these places to avoid unnecessary fines. STAY TUNED! In Italy, it is common for them to tow the car or put on the hubcap that blocks the vehicle’s exit! Be careful!

How to understand what these places are? See this post that talks about it, but in any case, another tip for those who are unsure about it is to park a little outside the center and go to the center on foot or, spending a little more, by taxi or other public transport.

Benefits

If you are in a group with 4 or 5 people, it will be a great option instead of taking the train;
Great for visiting more places on the same day, at your own pace;
It is the best form of transport for people who are used to driving anywhere and it is easy to locate!
IF YOU DRIVE: DO NOT DRINK!

Disadvantages

Generally, those who drive cannot enjoy the beautiful view around them because they can’t take your eyes off the road!
Extra expenses with GPS (average price of € 10.00 / € 15.00 – A DAY) so you don’t get lost so much.
Another thing, folks: to drive in Italy, as I have explained several times, is it essential to have an International Driver License AND your original driver license (in English) or with an official translation?! If you don’t have these documents: DO NOT DRIVE, as you will have a lot of problems if you are stopped by the Italian police! READ ALSO: DO I NEED THE IDL TO DRIVE IN ITALY?
Those who drive cannot drink; the Italian laws on this are very strict and you take the risk of getting a really huge fine. So if you intend to taste great Italian wine during lunch, pay attention! Don’t risk ruining your vacation!
It is not a suitable option for people who do not have the confidence to ask for information, especially if they do not speak Italian, as with the train or the bus not knowing the territory, you can end up wasting precious time that could be used for tourist visits.

Traveling by car in Italy

How about if I give you a rental car option? Are you ready for it? If you are renting a car, be sure to read our posts in the section Driving in Italy on the blog Your Travel to Italy. In addition to car itinerary tips, we have everything about signage, tolls, roads, and many more.

4) How to go to the Dolomites from Venice? WITH A PRIVATE TOUR

The last option is a private tour. The advantage of a private tour is the total freedom to decide your own time, not having to wait to leave or wasting unnecessary time using it to get to know other places. In addition, the tour departs comfortably from your hotel, which is important when you have little time available to visit a few places. In addition, of course, the arrival will not be at the train or bus station but directly at the tourist spot you want to visit. And if you book in advance, you will often be able to have the driver speak your language, so you can easily ask for clarification about the trip.

Total Comfort

This type of tour is ideal for VIPs who want to enjoy the trip from the beginning to the end. Excellent option for small groups of people or elderly people. This type of service guarantees absolute comfort for those who travel. Basically, you should just enjoy the tour without the stress of attending train, subway, bus schedules or anythign else!

You will explore the Dolomites and their unspoiled nature, passing through impressive landscapes and panoramas to reach Cortina d’Ampezzo, one of the most notable Italian tourist locations. Also known as “the queen of the Dolomites,” Cortina is the largest community in the region and, in addition, a notable place worldwide for its exclusive and elite tourism.

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Benefits

IDEAL option if you are a couple or have up to seven friends!
It is safe, comfortable and you make your own schedules!
Great for visiting more places on the same day, at your own pace;
To visit fascinating places such as Cortina d’Ampezzo, Lake Misurina and the Three Peaks of Lavaredo, which certainly have a different approach to the artistic beauty of Venice but which will offer us emotions and so much spectacular nature.
To spend an unforgettable journey, admiring scenarios that are unique to the world, immersed in the stillness of the alpine landscapes.
You can enjoy a “bicchiere di vino” during lunch without having to worry about driving later :), since in Italy the laws are strict against those who drive after they have drunk (even a small amount of alcohol);
Get to the Dolomites directly from Venice, with a comfortable walk during the journey.
There is no need to ‘stick’ to schedules and itineraries.
You will save a LOT of time, which you would lose with commuting by bus and train.

Disadvantage

The rate is a little higher, but it is a worthwhile investment! Especially if you like to do everything on your own time, with no pressure.
IDEAL option if you are a couple or have up to seven friends!
It is safe, comfortable and you make your own schedules!
Great for visiting more places on the same day, at your own pace;
You will be able to enjoy a “bicchiere di vino” (glass of wine) during lunch without having to worry about driving later :), since in Italy the laws are strict against those who drive after they have drunk (even a small amount of alcohol);
You won’t have to worry about train or bus schedules; you won’t have to worry about whether you will be able to return to Rome or not.
There is no need to ‘stick to’ schedules and itineraries.
You will save a LOT of time, which you would lose traveling by bus and train.

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Dolomite Attractions

We will be able to visit its characteristic Historical Center, perhaps also taking the opportunity to do a little shopping along the renowned Corso Italia or a snack in one of the numerous stylish places, or if you prefer nature, I advise Funivia Faloria, considered one of the most beautiful excursions in Cortina d’Ampezzo, which will take you to more than 2,000 meters of altitude to have an unparalleled panorama.

Among the innumerable summits of the Dolomites, the Three Peaks of Lavaredo are one of the most spectacular and well-known places, present in thousands of postcards for their particular conformation that makes them unique to the world, where they will remain enchanted by the impressive panorama of the summits that surround it. The third and last part of the excursion will reach the lake of Auronzo di Cadore, a picturesque mirror of water surrounded by characteristic mountain villages. The visit will end with a return to Venice. After the break, the last stage of the tour will be near Lake Auronzo, an artificial lake nestled between the most beautiful mountains in the Dolomites and will return to Venice.

Note

The tour description is obviously suggestive; what will be done will depend solely and exclusively on each customer’s order!

Tips

The tip to save A LOT is to book your hotel in advance.
As we also mentioned: beware of excess baggage! It is very complicated to get around with large volumes in Venice because of the bridges, stairs and narrow streets.

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Conclusion

How to get to the Dolomites from Venice? Here you have found all the options to reach the Dolomites from Venice. Think about them, and choose the one that best fits your travel profile.