Dolomites travel tips
Practical Dolomites travel tips based on 16 years of firsthand experience, covering where to stay, what to book, when to go, and how to plan a trip that actually works.
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Start here: planning your first Dolomites trip
How to choose a Dolomites hotel: what the photos don’t show
A beautiful room won’t make up for the wrong location. Here’s what I check before booking a Dolomites hotel, from the walk to the lift to half board, parking and spa hours.
Why we chose Merano for our Italian elopement
We thought we'd get married in the Dolomites. Instead, a last-minute change led us to Merano—and it turned out to be one of the best decisions we ever made.
Why staying longer in one Dolomites valley makes for a better trip
For sixteen years I've explored the Dolomites one valley at a time. Here's why slowing down, staying longer and getting to know each area has completely changed the way I travel—and the way I plan trips for others.
Merano travel guide: spa, wine, and slow travel
A practical Merano travel guide covering spa hotels, wine, and what to do in one of the most relaxed towns in South Tyrol.
Bolzano travel guide: what to do and why stay here
Planning a trip to Bolzano? This travel guide covers what to do, where to stay, and why Bolzano is one of the easiest bases in South Tyrol.
Best Spa hotels in South Tyrol (my picks for a relaxed trip)
Looking for the best spa hotels in South Tyrol? Here are my top picks for a relaxed trip, including luxury stays, mountain views, and wellness-focused hotels.
Best towns in South Tyrol: where to stay
Planning a trip to South Tyrol? This guide compares the best towns including Bolzano, Merano, and Val Gardena to help you choose where to stay
South Tyrol vs Dolomites: what’s the difference?
Not sure whether to choose South Tyrol or the Dolomites? This guide explains the difference and helps you decide where to stay based on your travel style.
Where to stay in the Dolomites without a car (best bases that actually work)
The best places to stay in the Dolomites without a car, with practical advice on buses, cable cars and which bases make getting around easiest.
Where to stay in the Dolomites for first-time visitors (Ortisei vs Corvara vs Cortina)
Planning your first Dolomites trip? Learn where to stay, how to get around, and how to see the best scenery without long hikes.
Quieter bases (Sesto, San Candido, Dobbiaco)
If you want fewer crowds and a slower pace without missing the best scenery, this eastern corner of the Dolomites is worth a serious look.
Is Val Gardena a good base for a first trip? (Ortisei vs Selva vs Santa Cristina)
Trying to decide if Val Gardena is the right base for your first Dolomites trip? Here’s how Ortisei, Selva, and Santa Cristina compare and which one fits different travel styles and walking levels.
Where to stay if it’s your first trip to the Dolomites
First time in the Dolomites? The base you choose shapes everything. Learn which towns suit different travel styles and how to avoid common planning mistakes.
Best Dolomites bases in winter for non-skiers
Choosing the right base is key for a winter Dolomites trip without skiing. Here’s where to stay — and why Ortisei, Corvara, and the 3 Peaks area work best.
My favorite spa hotels for a winter escape
The best Dolomites spa hotels for a cosy winter escape with saunas, pools, and mountain views.
Where to stay in the Dolomites: by region, budget & travel style
Not sure where to base yourself in the Dolomites? Here’s a simple guide to the best areas — Val Gardena, Alta Badia, the 3 Peaks region and more — plus what each one offers for scenery, budget and travel style.
Best spa hotels in South Tyrol: 4 I recommend
If you want a relaxing Dolomites trip with panoramic saunas, warm pools and easy scenic days, this guide covers the best spa hotels, gentle activities and simple wellness-focused itineraries.
Alta Badia for first-timers: where to stay and what to do
Thinking about Alta Badia for your first Dolomites trip? This simple guide covers where to stay, what to do, and what to expect from this calm, central region.
Best hotels in Corvara: where to stay
A simple guide to where to stay in Corvara, Alta Badia. The best types of hotels and stays by budget and vibe, plus what to consider before you book
Best first-timer bases in the Dolomites: Val Gardena, Alta Badia and the 3 Peaks area
Choosing where to stay is the most important decision for a first Dolomites trip. Here is an honest comparison of Val Gardena, Alta Badia, and the 3 Peaks area to help you decide