What do you wear to the Dolomites?

Because the weather in the Dolomites can be quite unpredictable, it is imperative to come well prepared. Always dress in layers and always carry warm clothing in your backpack when hiking.



Dressing for the Dolomites in 2026 requires a high-performance layering system because mountain weather is notoriously volatile, even in summer. Your base layer should be moisture-wicking (merino wool or synthetic), followed by an insulating mid-layer like a fleece or lightweight down jacket. A waterproof and windproof shell (Gore-Tex) is essential for sudden rain or wind on high passes. For footwear, sturdy, ankle-supporting hiking boots with Vibram soles are non-negotiable for the rugged, rocky terrain; trail runners often lack the necessary traction for scree slopes. In winter, add thermal leggings, insulated ski wear, and "micro-spikes" for icy paths. Always pack a warm beanie and gloves, as temperatures at elevations like the Tre Cime can drop below freezing even in July.

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People dress up in the evenings, especially for dinner, and a collared shirt and long pants for men are recommended. Perhaps a dress, slacks and nice blouse is recommended for women.

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Bring comfortable clothing that will protect you from cold (and possibly wet) weather. Please make sure you bring the appropriate rain gear. You will be hiking in the mountains, where the weather can be unpredictable. Long-sleeved, synthetic or cotton/synthetic T-shirt.

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The winter skiing season runs from mid-December until early April. We've personally visited the Dolomites in May, June, July, August, September, and October. The best time of year to visit the Dolomites is mid/late June, early July, and September.

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THE DOLOMITES ARE EXPENSIVE BUT ALSO AFFORDABLE WITH THESE TIPS. We're not going to lie, the Dolomites can be very expensive, and for many travellers, prohibitively so. Accommodation, especially in popular areas, can exceed €200 per night and will likely be your largest cost.

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If you simply want to drive through the Dolomites and visit a few highlights, two to three days is all you need. If you love hiking, spend as much time here as you can. I recommend five days at a minimum. So far, we spent 12 very busy days in the Dolomites and still have more that we want to come back and do.

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Sandals are much more comfortable than thick boots if you're going on a more or less even path. This means that rocky, slippery, and/or uneven trails shouldn't be hiked in sandals because they have less grip on the surface. However, if it's not a difficult path you can easily go with sandals.

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– The best shoes for Italy are the ones you can comfortably walk in. Sneakers are fine also in Italy, but again, maybe not in a fancy restaurant. So consider taking also some nice pair of shoes with you.

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Opt for a pair of comfortable leather boots, flats, or dress shoes instead of blinged out sneakers. Avoid carrying a fanny pack or large backpack with you, since it makes you look like a tourist and tells pickpockets that you're carrying money around.

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Can you get altitude sickness in the Dolomites? Yes, but it's not likely. Altitude sickness usually starts to kick in above 2,500 meters and can present itself (at these mild altitudes) with shortness of breath or an accelerated heartbeat.

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Cortina d'Ampezzo This town makes an excellent home base to explore the Dolomites, with a great location near Tre Cime di Lavaredo, Lago di Sorapis, the Croda da Lago Circuit, and Lagazuoi. While in Cortina d'Ampezzo, take a stroll along Corso Italia, the pedestrian street that runs through the city center.

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