How to get to the Dolomites – Closest airports & best travel options

Here's a comprehensive guide on the best ways to get to the Dolomites in northern Italy, covering air travel with the closest airports for each region, and the easiest travel routes into South Tyrol, Trentino and the Belluno mountains.

By plane

Closest airports to the Dolomites

When comparing airports, Bolzano Airport is the closest to the Dolomites and ideal for reaching central valleys in South Tyrol quickly, though it offers limited international routes. Venice Marco Polo provides the best access to the eastern Dolomites and Cortina d’Ampezzo in Belluno with excellent long-haul connections. Verona Airport is convenient for western areas such as Val di Fassa and Trentino, while Innsbruck offers the fastest northern entry via the Brennero Pass. For wide global flight availability, Munich Airport is the most comprehensive option, supported by reliable rail links into South Tyrol.

Airport Code Best for Approx. travel time
Bolzano Airport BZO Closest access to central Dolomites (Val Gardena, Alpe di Siusi, Alta Badia) 20-45 min
Venice Marco Polo VCE Cortina d’Ampezzo, Tre Cime, eastern Dolomites 2-2.5 hrs
Verona Airport VRN Val di Fassa, Val di Fiemme, Trentino region 2-2.5 hrs
Innsbruck Airport INN Northern Dolomites (Ortisei, Selva, Alta Pusteria) 1.5-2 hrs
Munich Airport MUC Wide international connections, good for long-haul travellers 3-4 hrs

 

Airlines and flight routes

Many airlines operate flights to these airports from various European cities and beyond. Budget airlines like Ryanair and easyJet provide affordable options, while larger carriers like Lufthansa and British Airways offer more frequent flights.

By train

Major train routes to the Dolomites

Travelling by train to the Dolomites is a scenic and convenient option. Major train routes include the Brenner Pass route from Munich to Verona, with stops in Trento, Bolzano and Bressanone, close to the Dolomites.

Connecting trains and stations

From major cities like Milan, Venice, and Rome, you can catch high-speed trains to Bolzano, Trento, or Belluno, which are gateways to the Dolomites. Regional trains connect these cities to smaller towns in the Dolomites, like the train route in Val Pusteria.

By car

Driving directions and routes

Driving to the Dolomites offers flexibility and the chance to explore at your own pace. From Venice, take the A27 motorway to Belluno. From Verona, the A22 motorway leads to Bolzano and Bressanone. Both routes offer spectacular views.

Parking facilities in the Dolomites

Parking in the Dolomites varies by location, with ample facilities in cities and towns, as well as designated areas in natural settings. In the major towns, you'll find well-marked parking lots and garages that provide easy access to local attractions. In natural areas, such as hiking and via ferrata trailheads and scenic viewpoints, there are dedicated parking zones designed to minimize environmental impact. Though, spaces can be limited, especially during peak seasons. Also, in Val Pusteria there is a ski train, taking you to the 3 Zinnen Dolomites and Kronplatz ski resorts.

By bus

Bus services to the Dolomites

Buses are a cost-effective way to reach the Dolomites. Companies like FlixBus and regional services connect major cities to the Dolomites. Services run frequently during the peak tourist seasons.

Schedules and routes

Check the latest bus schedules online for the most accurate information. Buses often run from Venice, Verona, and Milan to destinations like Cortina d'Ampezzo and Bolzano.

Additional travel advice

Local transportation & transfer within the Dolomites

Reaching the Dolomites from the closest airports is straightforward and fast. Car rental remains the quickest option, with direct motorway access from Bolzano, Venice Marco Polo, Verona, Innsbruck and Munich to all major Dolomite valleys. For travellers who prefer not to drive, frequent airport shuttle transfers operate year-round to popular resorts.

You can also travel by train from Verona, Munich or Innsbruck to hubs like Bolzano, Bressanone, Brunico or Trento, then continue by bus or hotel pick-up. With reliable road, shuttle and rail links, getting to the Dolomites is easy from every major airport.

Avoiding crowds

To avoid the crowds, plan your visit during the shoulder seasons. Weekdays are generally less busy than weekends.

Selected accommodations in the Dolomites

Appartements Andreas - Brunico in South Tyrol

Appartements Andreas

Brunico in South Tyrol
5.0 Excellent
110 Reviews
  • Quiet location near Bruneck
  • Close to the Kronplatz valley station
  • Spacious, modern apartments
  • Discounted admission to Cron4
  • Garage & e-bike hire
from 90.00 € per night
Parkhotel Ladinia - Cortina d'Ampezzo in Belluno

Parkhotel Ladinia

Cortina d'Ampezzo in Belluno
4.8 Excellent
405 Reviews

The Parkhotel Ladinia in San Vito di Cadore is a relaxing spa resort surrounded by a 5,000 square meter private park.

Wellnesshotel Almhof Call - San Vigilio di Marebbe in South Tyrol

Wellnesshotel Almhof Call

San Vigilio di Marebbe in South Tyrol
4.7 Excellent
338 Reviews
  • Spacious wellness area & wide range of treatments
  • ¾ gourmet board & wine cellar
  • Only 500 m to the ski lift
  • Weekly programme in summer & winter
  • Hiking equipment & mountain bike hire
from 140.00 € per night
Apparthotel Sella Ronda - Cinque Torri in Belluno

Apparthotel Sella Ronda

Cinque Torri in Belluno
4.4 Very good
191 Reviews

All of this whether you are lovers of high-altitude sports or whether you are looking for a peaceful getaway to spend a holiday with your family.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the closest airport to the Dolomites?

The closest airport is Bolzano Airport (BZO) in South Tyrol, offering the shortest access to central Dolomite valleys such as Val Gardena and Alpe di Siusi.

How do I get to the Dolomites from major airports?

From Venice, Verona, Innsbruck or Munich, you can reach the Dolomites by car hire, airport shuttle or regional train connections to Bolzano, Bressanone or Brunico.

Which airport is best for Cortina d’Ampezzo and the eastern Dolomites?

Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE) is the best option, with direct motorway links and regular shuttle transfers to Cortina and the Tre Cime di Lavaredo area.

Do I need a car to get to the Dolomites?

A car offers the most flexibility, especially for smaller valleys, but trains and buses provide reliable access to major hubs such as Bolzano, Brunico and Trento.