Cradled in the heart of the Dolomites in northern Italy, Cortina d'Ampezzo is a dream destination for those craving both thrill and tranquillity. The stylish alpine town is surrounded by Tofana, Cristallo and Cinque Torri, offering world-class skiing, hiking and panoramic viewpoints.
Cortina, known as the “Queen of the Dolomites”, is one of Italy’s most prestigious mountain towns. Located in the Belluno Dolomites, it is surrounded by spectacular peaks such as Tofana, Cristallo, Cinque Torri and the nearby Tre Cime di Lavaredo area. Its combination of dramatic scenery, luxury ambiance and excellent infrastructure makes it a favourite for travellers who appreciate both nature and comfort.
Cortina d’Ampezzo offers a vast ski area with varied slopes, modern lifts and famous Olympic ski slopes. It is ideal for confident skiers, families and those seeking scenic winter experiences such as snowshoeing and panoramic gondola rides. Additionally, visitors can enjoy ice skating at the iconic Olympic Ice Stadium, a venue that has hosted numerous international events. For those seeking a quieter adventure, snowshoeing and Nordic skiing provide the perfect way to explore the serene, snow-covered landscapes of the Dolomites.
In summer, Cortina becomes a leading base for hiking, climbing and via ferrata, or challenging treks like the famous Alta Via 1. Routes from Cinque Torri, Tofana di Rozes and the Cristallo range provide some of the most memorable viewpoints in the Dolomites.
Cortina’s elegant town centre features boutiques, cafés and restaurants, offering a refined mountain atmosphere. Many hotels provide wellness areas, panoramic terraces and quick access to lifts and trails.
With accessible paths, safe valley walks, family-friendly ski schools and scenic chairlifts, Cortina suits a wide range of travellers. It is equally popular with photographers thanks to its iconic vistas, such as from Lagazuoi.
Visitors choose Cortina for its blend of nature, style and accessibility. Its location in the eastern Dolomites gives quick access to some of the region’s most admired landscapes, making it a strategic base for multi-day journeys or a relaxing holiday in one of Italy’s most scenic mountain towns.
Cortina d'Ampezzo's history dates back to the Roman era, evolving through the centuries into a renowned mountain retreat. The town has preserved its heritage, reflected in its architecture and cultural events with centuries-old tradition.
The town's history is marked by notable events that have shaped its development. Hosting the 1956 Winter Olympics brought international fame and modernised its infrastructure, establishing it as a premier winter sports destination. During World War I between the Italian and Austro-Hungarian armies, it was a strategic military location, with its legacy preserved in open-air museums and historical trails like the WW1 Open-Air museums in the Lagazuoi and Cinque Torri area.
Cortina's medieval history includes rule by the Patriarchate of Aquileia, the Holy Roman Empire, and later the Republic of Venice and the Habsburgs until 1918. Additionally, it will co-host the 2026 Winter Olympics with Milan, reaffirming its status in the world of winter sports.
Cortina lies in the eastern Dolomites, within the Belluno province, surrounded by the Tofana, Cristallo and Cinque Torri mountain groups.
Yes. Cortina d’Ampezzo is one of Italy’s top ski destinations, offering wide slopes, Olympic runs, scenic gondolas and excellent ski schools for all levels.
Popular attractions include Cinque Torri, Tofana di Rozes, Lake Misurina and the Tre Cime di Lavaredo area, all within short driving distance.
Absolutely. Cortina provides easy hikes, children’s ski areas, safe valley paths and plenty of family-friendly hotels and restaurants.
