Cortina d’Ampezzo isn’t just a charming alpine town—it’s a gateway to some of Italy’s most spectacular mountain scenery. Whether you’re craving thrill-seeking adventures like via ferrata, or prefer peaceful lake and mountain sightseeing, Cortina offers a diverse lineup of tours that cater to all interests and fitness levels. We especially love the Dolomites Via Ferrata Experience for its blend of adrenaline and stunning vistas, and the Guided Snowshoeing Day for a peaceful winter escape. A perfect example? The Dolomites Via Ferrata Experience is highly rated, and offers a manageable yet exhilarating way to get a close-up view of those incredible cliffs.
What makes Cortina d’Ampezzo stand out is its perfect mix of outdoor adventure, accessible scenery, and luxurious comfort. You can scale challenging rock faces or relax by mountain lakes—all within a short drive from the town center. This guide highlights 15 of the best tours, each with its own flavor—so whether you’re after a full-day exploration or a private guided adventure, there’s something for all.
Tours in Cortina d’Ampezzo: An Overview
The list below features a mix of adventure tours, scenic drives, cultural experiences, and winter sports. From rock climbing to private helicopter trips, the options suit a range of interests and activity levels. Many tours include local guides, private transport, and unique vistas that make your trip memorable. Keep reading to find the perfect match for your adventure style.
1. Dolomites Via Ferrata Experience
At number 1, this Via Ferrata tour offers a safe yet thrilling way to scale the Dolomites’ rocky cliffs. Running about four hours, it’s suitable for a wide range of skill levels—your guide will choose a track aligned with your experience. With metal ladders, wires, and breathtaking views, this experience is perfect for those craving mountain heights without the need for technical climbing skills. The reviews are glowing, with many saying it’s “the highlight of their trip” and praising Mara and Enrico for their professionalism.
Key highlights include diverse tracks, safety gear, and spectacular panoramas. It’s best suited for active travelers with a sense of adventure—beginners can opt for easier routes, while experienced climbers can push themselves. The value for around $159 is excellent considering the safety, scenery, and expert guidance.
Bottom Line: A must-do for adventure-seekers who want a taste of mountaineering with top-notch guides and unforgettable views.
2. Guided Snowshoeing Day to Discover the Dolomites
Number 2 on our list, the Snowshoeing Day offers a peaceful exploration of winter’s quiet beauty. For about six to seven hours, an expert guide introduces you to snowshoe skills, then leads you through silent forests and past frozen lakes, with chances to spot animal tracks and learn snow safety. It’s a fantastic way to appreciate the Dolomites’ winter landscape away from crowds.
Guests praise Elisa’s adaptability and her deep knowledge of the area, describing it as “an unforgettable day of spectacular views.” The trip includes visits to iconic spots like the 5 Towers and the famous mountain in the Dolomites, making it ideal for nature lovers and winter hikers alike. The trip costs $154.46, which includes snowshoe equipment and guiding—an excellent value for a full day in such awe-inspiring scenery.
Bottom Line: A serene yet active winter experience, perfect for those wanting to enjoy the Dolomites’ snow-covered landscape at a relaxed pace.
3. Heart of the Dolomites starting from Cortina d’Ampezzo
Number 3, the Full-Day Sightseeing Tour is ideal for travelers who want to see the highlights without the hassle of driving. It’s a seven-hour trip with hotel pickup and a driver-guide who knows the region intimately. You’ll enjoy panoramic viewpoints, including the Pocol area, and take a scenic cable car ride for even more dramatic vistas. The itinerary is flexible, making it suitable for all interests.
Guests mention how the local guide enriched their experience with engaging commentary, and the comfortable vehicles make the day easy. At $444.69 per person, it’s a bit of an investment but offers a comprehensive cultural and natural tour, with stops at the 5 Torri, Croda da Lago, and Tofana di Rozes mountains. It’s perfect for those who prefer a relaxed, all-in-one experience.
Bottom Line: A convenient, comprehensive tour that combines nature, culture, and spectacular views—great for travelers short on time.
4. Cortina & Dolomites Small Group Full Day Tour from Venice
Number 4, this Small Group Day Trip from Venice delivers a rich overview of the region’s top sights in about eight hours. Traveling in an air-conditioned vehicle, you’ll explore Pieve di Cadore, Tre Cime di Lavaredo, and Lago di Misurina, with plenty of photo stops and free time. The tour balances sightseeing with comfort, perfect for visitors based in Venice who want a full day without the stress of self-driving.
Tour reviews highlight how the guides’ local knowledge and comfortable transport make the experience stand out. The tour costs $262.52, which is a fair price for a full-day, guided exploration of some of Italy’s most iconic mountain scenery. It’s especially good for those new to the region or short on time but eager to see many highlights.
Bottom Line: An easy, well-organized way to see the Dolomites’ highlights if you’re basing yourself in Venice.
5. Private Guided Hike to Tre Cime di Lavaredo
Number 5, the Private Hike to Tre Cime di Lavaredo offers a personalized experience through the iconic peaks. With a flexible duration from 4-8 hours, your local guide will tailor the hike to your ability. The trail provides close-up views of the symbol of the Dolomites, with expert insights into geology, flora, and history along the way.
Guests have praised Andrea’s ability to customize the hike and keep it engaging for families and experienced hikers alike. The price point of $184.38 per person includes the guide and safety gear. The route’s flexibility makes it perfect whether you want a half-day jaunt or a full-day adventure.
Bottom Line: An ideal choice for those who want a private, educational, and scenic hike in one of Italy’s most famous mountain sights.
6. Dolomiti Complete starting from Cortina d’Ampezzo
Number 6, the Complete Dolomiti Tour is a driving tour that packs in the region’s highlights in about eight hours. It’s led by a knowledgeable driver who’ll take you to Misurina, Landro, and the Tre Cime for photos and short walks. You’ll also enjoy a cable car ride (own expense) to a high-altitude lodge for lunch and panoramic views.
Guests appreciate the smooth logistics and the chance to see lesser-visited lakes and peaks. At $533.07 per person, it’s priced higher but offers a rundown with the comfort of private transport. For travelers wanting to maximize their scenic experience without strenuous activity, this trip hits the mark.
Bottom Line: A full-day scenic drive that showcases the best of the Dolomites’ natural beauty with convenience and comfort.
7. Private Dolomites Day Trip from Venice by Mercedes Class e Lux
Number 7, the luxury private tour (from Venice) offers personalized sightseeing in style. Traveling in a sleek Mercedes E-class, you’ll visit Cortina d’Ampezzo, Lago di Dobbiaco, and Lago di Braies. The itinerary is customizable, allowing you to choose your preferred sights and pace.
Guests emphasize the high-end comfort and attentive service, with some describing it as “the best way to see the Dolomites in luxury.” The cost is $2,178.15 for up to two people, making it ideal for couples or small groups seeking an exclusive experience. The trip’s flexibility makes it suitable for various interests, from sightseeing to photography.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a private, luxury experience with complete control over their itinerary.
8. Dolomites of Cortina Winter Hiking & Sledding Experience
Number 8, this Winter Hiking & Sledding Tour immerses you in the snowy landscape of Cortina’s peaks. Led by a private guide, you’ll trek with snowshoes or micro crampons, enjoying the frozen vistas and alpine trails. The day includes a fun sled ride and instruction, making it perfect for families or those new to winter sports.
Rated highly for its stunning scenery and guide Guedo’s ability to adapt routes, it costs $225.58 per person for seven hours. It’s best for active travelers comfortable in winter conditions and looking for a full day of snowy adventure.
Bottom Line: An excellent winter option for snow lovers who want both hiking and sledding in a safe, guided setting.
9. Lakes of the Dolomites: Misurina, Braies, 3 Peaks from Cortina
Number 9, the Lakes and Peaks Tour is a scenic journey through the region’s most stunning lakes and mountain views. Over approximately six hours, you’ll visit Lago di Misurina, Landro, and Braies, with options for boat rides in summer or short walks in all seasons.
Guests praise the driver’s local knowledge and the variety of views, with one describing it as “fantastic” and “worth every second.” The tour costs $393.58 and includes multiple photo stops, making it perfect for travelers who want to see many iconic sights without strenuous activity.
Bottom Line: A great choice for those seeking a comprehensive scenic tour with plenty of photo opportunities.
How to Choose the Best Tour in Cortina d’Ampezzo
When selecting your ideal tour, consider your budget, physical activity level, and specific interests. If you’re a thrill-seeker, the Via Ferrata Experience offers adventure with safety, while families or winter lovers might prefer the Snowshoeing Day or Winter Hiking and Sledding. For a hassle-free, rundown, the Full-Day Scenic Tour or Small Group from Venice might be best.
If luxury and privacy matter, the Private Day Trip in a Mercedes offers a bespoke experience. For active travelers, the Private Guided Hike and Rock Climbing give a more intense, hands-on encounter with the mountains.
Final Thoughts
Cortina d’Ampezzo provides a wide array of tours that highlight the stunning natural beauty and outdoor fun of the Dolomites. If you’re after an adrenaline rush, the Via Ferrata is hard to beat. For peaceful winter days, consider snowshoeing or sledding. If you want to leave the car behind, the full-day scenic tours and private trips deliver comfort and comprehensive sights.
Booking early is wise—these tours fill up quickly, especially in high season. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, Cortina’s tours guarantee a memorable alpine experience.
