The Most Scenic Viewpoints in the Dolomites for Photography

You don’t have to be a professional photographer to capture incredible images in the Dolomites. The landscapes do most of the work for you — sharp peaks, soft meadows, moody clouds, and golden light that feels unreal.

This guide highlights the most scenic viewpoints in the Dolomites for photography, focusing on light, composition, and places that consistently deliver strong images.

I’ve photographed these viewpoints across different trips and seasons and choose them based on real light, access, and reliability.

The Most Scenic Viewpoints in the Dolomites for Photography

1. Seceda (Val Gardena)

Why it’s a top photo spot:
The dramatic ridgeline is one of the most iconic scenes in the Dolomites. You get instant views the moment you step off the cable car.

Best time for photos:
Morning light for soft shadows and blue tones. Late afternoon for warmer contrast on the peaks.

Where to shoot from:
Walk toward the ridge viewpoint — even 2–3 minutes from the lift gives you a perfect composition.

Skill level: Anyone.

Useful links:
– Ortisei Weekend Guide
– 5 Best Hikes in Val Gardena

2. Lagazuoi (Alta Badia / Cortina)

Why it’s famous:
The 360° panorama feels endless — layered peaks, deep valleys, and light that changes every few minutes.

Best time for photos:
Sunset. The alpenglow here is one of the best in the region.

Where to shoot:
Just below the rifugio for wide shots, or near the cross for a clean foreground.

Skill level: Easy (cable car up).

3. Alpe di Siusi (Val Gardena)

Why it’s great:
Gentle meadows, little wooden huts, and a massive mountain backdrop — easy, soft, and perfect for beginners.

Best time for photos:
Sunrise if you can. Mist is common and makes everything look magical.

Where to shoot:
Anywhere along the main walking paths toward Compatsch or Saltria.

4. Val di Funes (Santa Maddalena Church)

Why it’s iconic:
This is one of the most photographed villages in the Dolomites — small church, green fields, and the Odle peaks rising behind it.

Best time for photos:
Late afternoon or golden hour.

Where to shoot:
The official panoramic viewpoint above the village (fenced area).

The Most Scenic Viewpoints in the Dolomites for Photography5. Giau Pass (Cortina area)

Why photographers love it:
Big skies, rolling hills, dramatic peaks in every direction. Perfect for wide landscapes.

Best time for photos:
Sunset — the entire pass glows.

Where to shoot:
Start near Rifugio Passo Giau and wander 5 minutes up the hill for a clean, high-angle shot.

6. Gardena Pass (Between Corvara & Val Gardena)

Why it’s underrated:
You can get incredible photos from your car if needed — the road curves around perfect mountain backdrops.

Best time for photos:
Morning light.

Where to shoot:
Near the top of the pass, around the rifugio and gondola station.

7. Drei Zinnen / Tre Cime (3 Peaks area)

Why it’s famous:
The Dolomites’ postcard view — three towers, dramatic cliffs, and a landscape that feels almost lunar.

Best time for photos:
Late afternoon or sunset.

Where to shoot:
The classic viewpoint is around 45 minutes from Rifugio Auronzo — easy by Dolomites standards.

8. Pralongià Plateau (Alta Badia)

Why it’s perfect for easy days:
Rolling meadows with 360° views — gentle, peaceful, and incredibly photogenic.

Best time for photos:
Anytime. The light stays soft because the terrain is open and wide.

Where to shoot:
Walk between the rifugi and turn around often — the angles constantly change.

Simple Tips for Better Dolomites Photos

– Shoot early or late for the softest light.
– Add foregrounds (flowers, huts, fences) for depth.
– Clouds make your photos better — not worse.
– Take a vertical and a horizontal at every spot for flexibility.
– If you're using your phone, tap to set focus and lower exposure slightly.

Planning a Trip Around these Photo Spots

If you want to visit multiple viewpoints in one trip, use my region and tips guides to match these areas to your schedule.

Or if you’d like someone to connect the dots for you — distances, timing, lifts, and easy days — this is exactly what I do in custom trip planning.

More Dolomites tips, guides, and planning help:
dolomitesjourney.com