Have you ever had one of those pinch-me moments during your travels, where reality somehow surpasses expectation? That was how I felt stepping into the Italian Dolomites, camera in hand and heart racing. This past June, I had the incredible opportunity to capture a romantic photoshoot with Kaylee and Luke in front of these breathtaking peaks.

A Photoshoot Straight Out of a Movie Scene

I’ve always been captivated by the Dolomites from afar. You know how it is—you see a place on Instagram or Pinterest and wonder if it actually lives up to the hype. Well, let me tell you, the Dolomites don’t just meet expectations—they exceed them.

When I decided I wanted to capture a couple’s photoshoot here, I put out a quick call on my Instagram story (naturally), secretly crossing my fingers that someone would jump on board. Thankfully, Kaylee and Luke answered the call, and we found ourselves in Val di Funes, a valley that truly seems lifted straight from a movie set. Picture lush green meadows, postcard villages, dramatic mountain peaks, and soft golden light washing over everything. My Sound of Music dreams were finally coming true!

We spent the evening exploring the valley, stopping now and then to pet some friendly local cats and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. Kaylee and Luke drifted easily into the romance of the moment, laughing, dancing, and quietly marveling at the majestic backdrop. It felt surreal, like a cinematic scene unfolding before my eyes. 

Your Quick Travel Guide to Visiting the Dolomites in Italy

If you’re already scribbling down “Dolomites” on your bucket list (and you definitely should be!), here are some insider tips and insights to help you plan your own incredible trip. You can dig deeper into the history, sites, and experiences once you gain familiarity with the area, but this will provide a general overview of the Dolomites to help you get your bearings before diving in.

Quick Facts About the Dolomites

The Dolomites are in Northern Italy, part of the Italian Alps, known for rugged mountain scenery, sheer cliffs, charming alpine towns, great hiking, skiing, and eclectic cultural cuisine. The region is conveniently reachable from several cities, perfect for a road trip or weekend getaway.

Closest Major Cities

If you’re flying in, the nearest major airports are Venice, Verona, and Milan in Italy and Innsbruck in Austria. Venice Marco Polo Airport is just over two hours away, making it the easiest and most scenic base. 

Once you arrive, you’ll want to rent a car—it’s the best way to explore the region at your own pace.

The city of Bolzano (Bozen) is considered the “Gateway to the Dolomites.” While not directly within the Dolomites, it’s a central location on the western edge of the mountain range, making it a convenient starting point for exploring the area. 

Best Time to Visit

While we chose June for our shoot (hello, wildflowers!), the Dolomites are amazing year-round. June through September are ideal if you’re looking to hike, bike, or capture lush green landscapes. My personal recommendation is mid-June, when the trails open, flowers bloom, and the summer crowds haven’t quite arrived.

If skiing or winter wonderlands are your thing, December to March offer pristine slopes, cozy chalets, and snowy peaks.

Things to Do

• Go hiking in Val di Funes. Trails vary from scenic strolls to challenging alpine hikes. For breathtaking views without extreme effort, try the Adolf Munkel Trail—a moderate 3-4 hour loop through alpine pastures and spruce forests. If you’re an avid trekker, Alta Via 1 and 2 are iconic multi-day hikes that promise jaw-dropping views. You can find the route and itenerary here.
  
• Visit Lago di Braies and Lago di Carezza. These picture-perfect lakes offer crystal-clear reflections of the surrounding peaks and are easily accessible. If you can, be there for sunrise. It’s worth the early wakeup call and extra cup of coffee.
  
• Drive the Great Dolomite Road, winding through dramatic mountain passes and postcard-worthy vistas at every turn.
  
• If hiking or skiing isn’t your jam, no worries! The Dolomites still feel up close and personal, even in town. To enjoy the views and fresh air, it’s easy to find incredible cycling, scenic drives, cable car rides, and quaint towns filled with local cafes and boutiques.

Skiing in the Dolomites

Winter sports fanatics, rejoice! The Dolomites have some of the best ski resorts, extensive slopes, and fairytale winter villages in the world! Check out Cortina d’Ampezzo (host of the upcoming 2026 Winter Olympics!), the vast Sella Ronda ski circuit, Alta Badia, or Val Gardena for fantastic skiing and snowboarding, no matter your skill level.

Where to Eat

One of the highlights of traveling in Italy is, of course, the food—and the Dolomites won’t disappoint. The food here is very different from the rest of Italy due to the blend of German, Italian, and Old World cultures. Be sure to sample local specialties like speck (smoked ham), canederli (dumplings), and apple strudel. My favorite spot is Gostner Schwaige in Seiser Alm, offering farm-to-table dishes with mountainside views. 

Rifugio Odle in Val di Funes serves hearty traditional dishes like canederli and gnocchi—perfect for a hearty lunch after a morning hike.. For something more upscale, book a table at Restaurant Tubladel in Ortisei, known for fantastic local ingredients and warm hospitality.

Where to Stay

From cozy guest houses (called “garni”) to luxurious mountain lodges and wellness retreats, accommodations in the Dolomites are varied and offer unique experiences. Some of my favorites include:

• Hotel Tyrol in Val di Funes: traditional rooms with balconies overlooking the mountains.
• Adler Spa Resort in Val Gardena: luxurious wellness facilities, spectacular views, and gourmet dining.
• Rifugio Lagazuoi: a remote mountain refuge perched high above the surrounding peaks—perfect for adventurous travelers and unforgettable sunrise views.

Hiking Difficulty

Don’t let the towering peaks intimidate you—the Dolomites are accessible for every fitness level. Short, scenic walks (like mine with Kaylee and Luke) are abundant. Trails are generally well-marked and easy to follow. Of course, there are challenging hikes if you’re looking for adventure, but beginners and families can easily enjoy exploring here, too.

Making Memories & Documenting Dolomite Magic

Kaylee and Luke’s photoshoot in Val di Funes illustrated why the Dolomites are so beloved by travelers and photographers alike: it feels like stepping into a fairy tale.

Whether looking into photography or just perusing the web to plan a trip to Northern Italy, I’ve got you covered! I hope you found this travel guide to the Dolomites helpful. And as always, don’t hesitate to reach out for more info. I’m always happy to share my travel schedule if you want to coordinate and book a session at a specific destination.