Our group loves exploring expensive and touristy destinations but with a twist - we turn them into budget-friendly adventures by finding the best deals everywhere. So here is our budget friendly, but fascinating Dolomites trip.

I have added an extra 2-day itinerary around Lake Como too!

5 days Dolomites trip on a budget

When we decided to visit Dolomites, most accommodations were already booked, but we uncovered a hidden gem that became our cozy home for the entire five day trip ⛰️

⏰ The times listed are based on the trip distance from our accommodation.

This map will be divided into sections, making travel within the Dolomites affordable and efficient. By exploring each area separately, you'll save on gas and avoid long hours of travel between destinations.

This day will be packed with adventures and stunning views, so make sure to prepare food in advance as there will be no time for restaurant stops.

It’s only possible to drive up to Alpe di Siusi before 9 am or after 5 pm. Unless you’re staying in a hotel on Alpe di Siusi, you cannot drive further than the P2 Car Park in Compaccio/Compatsch.

Although signs suggest driving isn't permitted, we noticed many visitors still made their way up. The walk from the parking takes about 40 minutes, so we recommend arriving at least 20 minutes before sunset to enjoy the experience. 

☕ ORTISEL AT  9.10 am - Small town near by to have a morning espresso.

🚡 Take the cable car up from Ortisei, which costs about 45€. From there, you’ll reach the ridge in 20 minutes (the cable car opens in mid-June and closes mid-October). 

🥾 There are plenty of hikes from Seceda, so if you are down for a hike - do it. We just walked around, had cocktails at the restaurant and enjoyed the vibe. 

 🌇 3 PM - SUNSET WATCHING AT VAL DI FUNES - my fav place.

💰 Budget tip: Grab a roasted chicken, snacks, drinks in a shop near by and have a dinner with wonderful view. 

❗It's important to come there before 9am as you won't be able to find ANY parking sports and the close the road once the parking is full. We came there around 11am and we found a parking spot at 1.30pm. 

After parking, head in the direction of Hotel Tyrol along the Kirchweg (“church path”) street. Hotel Tyrol has a striking, alpine modern facade – it’s easy to spot. Continue uphill to the Fallerhof Farm. 

As you ascend, the church is already visible ahead. At Fallerhof Farm, turn left (trail 26/Kirchweg), passing in front of a large modern barn, home to dairy cows, and an enclosure of birds (chickens, ducks, and turkeys). After a few meters, the trail veers right and uphill. This pathway leads directly to the Santa Maddalena Church. The church is open and free to enter. After visiting the church, we recommend hiking to the famous viewpoint and following the Panoramaweg trail. Read our St. Maddalena Panorama Trail Guide for a trail description and map.

⛰️ 8 AM - CADIN DI MISURINA & TRE CIME DI LEVAREDO                                                  

🥾 At Rifugio Auronzo, ignore the crowds heading to Forcella Lavaredo. Instead, face away from the rifugio, where you'll spot a well-marked path (#117) leading to Rifugio Col de Varda via Rifugio Fratelli Fonda Savio. Initially, the trail descends steeply before climbing back to a plateau with clear views of the Cadini peaks. Avoid the Tre Cime trailhead on your left and head right, following the downhill path through the grass to the Cadini di Misurina viewpoint. On the way back, take the left fork at the trail split for a new perspective, including fantastic views of Tre Cime.

 🚶‍♀️ Walk around the lake and have pastries from local bakeries.  

If you are visiting during the summer (high season) and truly want to avoid crowds at Lago di Braies, plan on arriving between 6:00 -7:00 AM or in the evening around 6:00 - 7:00 PM. You'll encounter photographers, but minimal tourists.

☕ PIEVE DI LIVINALLOGO - Morning coffee

🚣‍♀️ The boat coast - 50 euros 

🚗 Parking: There are plenty of parkings, but during the day it's hard to find a spot. 

Absolutely loved this hike! The water is an unreal shade of blue, and the views are completely mesmerizing. It feels like stepping into a postcard!

🏊‍♀️ You can swim in this lake, so it's a great place to refresh and have a cute picnic. 

⛰️ 9:00 AM - SEGGIOVIA CLIQUE TORRI 

Grab an espresso and a pastry to start your morning right. 

Great for both Sunrise and Sunset, there are a few panoramic points above the pass that are a must-see, as they offer even more beautiful views of the Giau Pass and the mountains around it. What I’m trying to say is this is a location you should not miss; it’s easy to get there and you can combine it with hikes to other locations.

🏖️ After five days of hiking, we wanted to relax and soak up some sun, so we spent the day at the beach, chilling with Aperols in hand. 

After tanning we decided to explore Lecco and it didn't disappoint. 

As Bellagio is popular tourist destination, we decided to go there in the morning so we are not stuck in traffic. 

5 days Dolomites trip on a budget

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