10 Best Things To Do in Cortina d’Ampezzo
Cortina d’Ampezzo is a town in Italy located in the Dolomite Mountains. Cortina is famous for skiing and snowboarding. There are many ski slopes in the area. People come from all over the world to ski in Cortina.
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What Are the Best Things to Do and See in Cortina d’Ampezzo?
Besides skiing, there are many other activities to enjoy in Cortina.
Unquestionably, the Cinque Torri (Five Towers), stand as emblematic icons of Cortina d’Ampezzo. Their unique formation sets them apart from all other mountains or valleys in the region, making them a magnet for tourists.
There are also many beautiful hiking and biking trails in the mountains. The Boite River is a great place to go rafting or kayaking. You can also go horseback riding in the Dolomites.
The Olympic Ice Stadium was built for the 1956 Winter Olympics and is now used for ice hockey and figure skating. You can also go paragliding or hang gliding to get a great view of the Dolomites.
Cortina d’Ampezzo is a beautiful place with many fun things to do there.
Ten Suggestions for Things to Do in or Around Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy
Embark on a memorable adventure with our curated list of ten top activities in and around Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy.
Each of these handpicked experiences promises a unique taste of this charming region.
1. Go Skiing or Snowboarding in the Dolomiti Superski Region
Cortina d’Ampezzo is known for its world-class skiing and snowboarding, offering a distinctive ski experience encompassing three areas as part of the expansive Dolomiti Superski region.
The Faloria-Cristallo-Mietres, Tofana and Lagazuoi, and 5 Torri resorts together host 72 slopes catering to varying skill levels.
2. Visit the Musei delle Regole d’Ampezzo
The Musei delle Regole d’Ampezzo, managed by the Regole d’Ampezzo, comprises three museums.
The Rinaldo Zardini Palaeontology Museum showcases a collection of vibrant fossils from the Dolomites, highlighting a time when these mountains were part of a tropical seabed.
The Regole of Ampezzo Ethnographic Museum, located in a renovated Venetian sawmill, displays items relating to local rural and pastoral life.
Lastly, the Mario Rimoldi Modern Art Museum houses over 800 works by 20th-century Italian artists and organizes thematic temporary exhibitions.
3. Take a Hiking Tour
Take a hike or go mountain biking in the beautiful Dolomite Mountains. The Dolomites, honored by UNESCO, showcase some of the most mesmerizing mountain vistas in Europe.
Hiking tours originating from Cortina d’Ampezzo simplify the exploration of these remarkable peaks, ensuring all transportation and logistics are arranged.
Guided tours begin directly at the trailhead, leading hikers along stunning trails that offer expansive views over the awe-inspiring mountains and valleys of the Dolomites.
Hike the Dolomites from Cortina
Experience the Dolomites’ stunning landscapes on a hassle-free, guided, and personalized hiking excursion.
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4. Visit the Cinque Torri
The “Cinque Torri” or “Five Towers” are a distinct group of five rock formations in Cortina d’Ampezzo.
Renowned for their unique shape, they form an iconic part of the Dolomites landscape.
These natural monuments are not just visually captivating but also popular spots for hiking and rock climbing, offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and peaks.
5. Go Rafting or Kayaking on the Boite River
Flowing through the heart of Cortina d’Ampezzo, the Boite River enhances the allure of this alpine town. It’s not just a picturesque feature of the landscape but also a thrilling hub for adventure seekers.
Rafting or kayaking on the Boite River presents a unique way to experience Cortina, combining the thrill of white-water adventure with unparalleled views of the surrounding Dolomites.
It’s an exhilarating experience that enriches any visit to this enchanting region.
6. Go Horseback Riding through the Stunning Landscape of the Dolomites
Embarking on a horseback ride in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Cortina in the Dolomites is a remarkable and enduring memory.
This unique and exhilarating experience is bound to be an unforgettable highlight of your trip.
7. Take a Scenic Bike Ride through the Dolomite Mountains
Embarking on a scenic bike ride through the Dolomite Mountains is a splendid way to absorb their magnificent views and immerse yourself in nature.
Recommended for the summer months, it offers an unforgettable way to explore these spectacular landscapes up close.
8. Visit the Olympic Ice Stadium
The Olympic Ice Stadium is a hallmark of the 1956 Olympic Games. Open to the public all year round, it provides opportunities for lessons with professional instructors.
Serving as a venue for various events, it hosts figure skating, curling, and ice hockey competitions, with Cortina often playing a pivotal role in top-tier ice hockey championships.
9. Go Paragliding for an Unforgettable View of the Dolomite Mountains
Experience the thrill of paragliding in Cortina d’Ampezzo, soaring through the sky, and taking in the breathtaking scenery of the Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
With an experienced instructor ensuring your safety, you can witness Cortina from an entirely new perspective, filled with adrenaline and wonder.
10. Visit the Church of San Francesco in P.tta S.Francesco
This quaint church, among the oldest in Ampezzo along with Ospitale, impresses with its simplicity and harmony with the saint to whom it is dedicated.
While it houses notable 14th-century frescoes, its charm lies in its modesty rather than opulent art treasures. Its origins are uncertain, but its existence is documented as early as 1396.
Seated in a serene and secluded spot, it’s a worthy stop during a Cortina visit.
Final Thoughts
If you plan to spend a week skiing and having fun in Italy, there’s likely no better destination than one of the most famous Italian winter destinations, Cortina d’Ampezzo.
You’ll enjoy “bel panorama” (beautiful view) and “piste fantastiche” (fantastic ski runs).
Recomended Reading: Explore our curated selection of the 35 best Italian travel guide books, perfect companions to enhance your next trip to Italy.
