Yes, you can absolutely explore the Dolomites without a car in 2026, and many hikers actually prefer it. The region, particularly the South Tyrol area, has an exceptional public transport network. Most hotels and b&bs provide guests with a free Mobilcard (like the Val Gardena Mobil Card), which gives you unlimited access to regional buses and trains. To reach the mountains, you can take a train to Bolzano or Bressanone, then use the efficient local bus systems (like SAD or Dolomiti Bus) to reach villages like Ortisei or Cortina d'Ampezzo. For high-altitude access, an extensive system of cable cars and chairlifts connects the valleys to the main hiking trails, such as the Alpe di Siusi or Seceda. While remote areas require more planning and "seasonal" bus schedules (usually running from mid-June to mid-October), the system is designed to discourage car traffic and preserve the UNESCO World Heritage site. Using apps like SüdtirolMobil allows for real-time tracking, making it easy to hop between different mountain groups without the stress of narrow alpine roads and expensive parking.