Venice , Italy

Day Tour - Cortina & Dolomites

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About this experience

Escape the hustle and bustle of Venice and embark on a day trip to the Dolomites, visiting Lake Santa Croce, Pieve di Cadore, Cortina, Lake Auronzo, Lake Misurina, and back to Cortina. Enjoy stunning scenery and countless opportunities to capture breathtaking photos. Navigate through tunnels offering mesmerizing views of canyons and valleys that seem to appear out of nowhere. The vistas here are among the most spectacular in Europe.

We start at Lake Santa Croce, where you can admire the Dolomites' peaks mirrored in the clear waters, then head to Pieve di Cadore for a short stroll and perhaps a cappuccino. Next, we drive to the charming Lake Auronzo, passing through quaint mountain villages.

Available options

Day Tour - Cortina & Dolomites

What's included

Transport by air-conditioned minivan from Venice and return

Photo stops and free time on the way

Detailed itinerary

Located in the province of Belluno, Veneto, northern Italy, the Lago di Santa Croce is a semi-natural lake encompassing the communes of Alpago and Ponte nelle Alpi. At an elevation of 386 meters (1,266 feet), the lake has a surface area of 7.2 square kilometers (2.8 square miles) and an average depth of 33 meters (108 feet). The lake was naturally smaller until it was expanded with the construction of a dam in the 1930s. The Piave River serves as one of its outlets. The area’s consistent winds make it a popular destination for sailing, watersports, and kitesurfing enthusiasts.

Located in the province of Belluno, in the Veneto region of Italy, Pieve di Cadore is a municipality with about 3,833 inhabitants. It spans an area of 66 square kilometers, with a population density of 58 inhabitants per square kilometer. Pieve di Cadore borders Calalzo di Cadore, Cimolais (PN), Domegge di Cadore, Perarolo di Cadore, Valle di Cadore, and Vodo Cadore. The town is famous for being the birthplace of the celebrated Renaissance painter Titian (1490-1576).

In the Valle d'Ansei, part of the Auronzo di Cadore municipality, stretches Lake Auronzo for two kilometers. This shimmering body of water is celebrated for its clarity and popularity in the Veneto region.

Situated in the Province of Belluno, Lake Auronzo is an artificial lake formed by a dam constructed in the 1930s, diverting the flow of the Ansei River. Standing 55 meters high, the dam was completed in 1932, creating a reservoir with a capacity of 6.25 million cubic meters of water.

Near the dam lies a charming 16th-century chapel dedicated to St. Cristina, hence the lake is also known as Lake of Santa Cristina.

Every season is an opportunity to marvel at the lake's beauty and the breathtaking landscape that surrounds it. In summer, this corner of Belluno invites visitors to unwind and connect with nature.

A well-marked cycle and pedestrian path nearly encircles the lake, offering ideal conditions for leisurely strolls, exhilarating mountain biking adventures, or peaceful horseback rides. This scenic route connects Auronzo to Misurina, another enchanting destination nestled near the majestic Tre Cime di Lavaredo and the Cadini di Misurina mountain group.

The initial leg of the path is pleasantly straightforward, beginning in Auronzo and extending to Palùs San Marco: a fifteen-kilometer stretch that remains mostly level, making it accessible for all levels of outdoor enthusiasts.

Cortina d'Ampezzo is an Italian municipality in the Veneto region, province of Belluno, with about 5,954 residents. Renowned as a popular ski resort, it covers an area of 254.51 km², with a population density of 23 inhabitants per km². Cortina d'Ampezzo shares borders with Auronzo di Cadore, Badia (BZ), Braies (BZ), Colle Santa Lucia, Dobbiaco (BZ), Livinallongo del Col di Lana, and Marebbe (BZ).

What's not included

Food or drink

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Meet the driver 15 min before at the left hand side of Piazzale Roma, in front of the hotel Olimpia in the car park area. Look for the sign with the name of the tour on it and/or the orange umbrella.

About Venice

Venice is a unique and enchanting city built on more than 100 small islands in a lagoon in the Adriatic Sea. Known for its canals, gondolas, and stunning architecture, Venice is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit destination for its rich history, art, and culture. The city offers a romantic and timeless atmosphere that captivates visitors from around the world.

Top Attractions

St. Mark's Basilica

A stunning Byzantine cathedral known for its opulent design, golden mosaics, and historical significance. It is one of the most iconic landmarks in Venice.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours Free entry, €3 for museum and treasury

Doge's Palace

A masterpiece of Gothic architecture, the Doge's Palace was the residence of the Doge of Venice and the seat of Venetian government. It offers a glimpse into the city's political and cultural history.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours €25 for standard ticket, €30 for Secret Itineraries Tour

Rialto Bridge

The oldest and most famous of Venice's four bridges spanning the Grand Canal, the Rialto Bridge is an iconic symbol of the city.

Architecture 30 minutes Free

Grand Canal

The main waterway of Venice, the Grand Canal is lined with beautiful palaces, churches, and historic buildings. A vaporetto ride along the canal offers stunning views.

Nature/Scenic 30-60 minutes €7.50 for a vaporetto ticket

Murano

An island famous for its glass-making tradition. Visitors can watch artisans at work and purchase unique glass souvenirs.

Cultural/Historical Half-day Free to explore, €10 for museum

Burano

A colorful island known for its lace-making tradition and picturesque houses. Burano is a charming and photogenic destination.

Cultural/Scenic Half-day Free to explore, €5 for lace museum

Must-Try Local Dishes

Risotto al Nero di Seppia

A risotto made with cuttlefish ink, giving it a distinctive black color and rich, briny flavor.

Main Course Contains seafood, not suitable for vegetarians or those with seafood allergies.

Sarde in Saor

Sweet and sour sardines marinated with onions, raisins, pine nuts, and vinegar.

Appetizer Contains fish, not suitable for vegetarians.

Bigoli in Salsa

Pasta with a sauce made from anchovies, onions, and breadcrumbs.

Main Course Contains fish, not suitable for vegetarians.

Frito Misto

A mix of fried seafood and vegetables, including shrimp, squid, and zucchini.

Appetizer Contains seafood, not suitable for vegetarians.

Popular Activities

Kayaking in the canals Cycling on Lido di Venezia Hiking in the Venetian Lagoon Sunbathing on Lido di Venezia Enjoying a gondola ride Visiting a spa or wellness center Attending a concert or opera Visiting museums and galleries

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

These months offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds compared to the summer peak. The city is vibrant with events and festivals, and the temperatures are comfortable for exploring.

15°C to 28°C 59°F to 82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: English, French, German
English: Widely spoken in tourist areas, moderately spoken in local areas

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET), GMT+2 (Central European Summer Time, CEST) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Venice is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, pickpocketing and petty theft can occur in crowded areas, and acqua alta (high water) events can disrupt travel plans.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings
• Use official taxis and ticket vendors
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you with offers or requests

Getting there

By air

Venice Marco Polo Airport • 12 km from city center

By train

Santa Lucia Railway Station

By bus

Piazzale Roma

Getting around

Public transport

The vaporetto is the main public transport system in Venice. It operates on fixed routes and is the most convenient way to get around.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber (limited availability), Local taxi apps

Rentals

Neighborhoods

San Marco Dorsoduro Cannaregio Castello

Day trips

Burano and Murano

10-45 minutes by vaporetto • Half-day to full day

Visit the colorful island of Burano and the glass-making island of Murano for a unique and picturesque day trip.

Lido di Venezia

20 minutes by vaporetto • Half-day to full day

A long, narrow island between the Venetian Lagoon and the Adriatic Sea, known for its beaches, the Venice Film Festival, and a more relaxed atmosphere.

Padua (Padova)

40 km (25 miles) • Half-day to full day

A charming city known for its beautiful architecture, historic sites, and the famous Scrovegni Chapel with its stunning frescoes by Giotto.

Festivals

Venice Carnival • February or March (dates vary) Venice Film Festival • Late August to early September Festa del Redentore • Third weekend of July

Pro tips

Visit major attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
Explore the city's lesser-known neighborhoods and hidden gems for a more authentic experience
Try local specialties and dishes, and ask locals for recommendations
Use a map or GPS to navigate the intricate streets and canals, as Venice can be easy to get lost in
Be prepared for acqua alta (high water) events, especially from October to January, and check forecasts and plan accordingly