Experience the engrossing slopes and enticing attractions that Cortina d’Ampezzo offers on your next trip to Europe.
We’ve gathered everything you need to know before visiting this incredible ski destination, so stick around to find out the best features of such an enthralling location.
Location, Weather, and Climate at Cortina d’Ampezzo
Cortina d’Ampezzo is situated in the Ampezzo Valley, in a quaint small town in the Veneto region of the Northern Italian province, the Belluno Dolomites, which is rich in history and traditional charm.
This tourism hotspot is infamous for incredible pistes and panoramas, skiing opportunities, and has even been assigned with the Alpine Ski World Championships of 2021. Check out average weather here
, and average snowfall here.
| Month | Temperature (High) | Temperature (Low) |
| November | 5° | -3° |
| December | 0° | -7° |
| January | 0° | -8° |
| February | 3° | -7° |
| March | 7° | -3° |
| April | 11° | 1° |
It gets incredibly cold, so visitors will need to ensure that appropriate winter gear and clothing is worn, topped with protective measures such as hats and sunglasses while traveling.
Proper gear such as skiing helmets and goggles will provide protection while skiing, and sunscreen should be worn as well. Additional measures such as umbrellas are advised while participating in non-ski activities or traveling during snowfall.
Getting to and around Cortina d’Ampezzo
Getting to Cortina d’Ampezzo in Belluno province is fairly simple from various major points in Italy. It’s located specifically between Veneto and Trentino Alto Adige, and the border between these two regions is situated at Cimabanche Pass which is 8 miles from Cortina.
Patrons can fly into nearby airports, and take shuttles, buses, taxis, or cars to reach the resort from these major points. View the timetable for Cortina Express bus transfers from Venice airport here. Details on getting to Cortina d’Ampezzo can be viewed here.
| Area | Distance to Cortina d’Ampezzo |
| Venice | 100 miles |
| Milan | 268 miles |
| Rome | 429 miles |
| Innsbruck | 96 miles |
| The Austrian border | 27 miles |
| motorway exit A27-Belluno | 44 miles |
| motorway exit A22-Bressanone | 54 miles |
Accommodation at Cortina d’Ampezzo
Although opting to stay in the town of Cortina d’Ampezzo, the Queen of the Dolomites offers an array of benefits, there are three other exquisite towns near the resort, all of which offer exceptional experiences for varying accommodation preferences and budgets.
All of these towns are near Cortina, and would still be viable options for convenient travel to the ski resort and access to a wide range of amenities.
Auronzo di Cadore is located near the Upper Pusteria Valley, and Comelico, in the northern area of the Veneto region, spanning out along the left bank of Lake Santa Caterina at an altitude of 2,952 feet.
San Vito di Cadore is also located in the northern area of Veneto but is a mountain town nestled in a vast green valley, located near Venice at an altitude of 3,316 feet only about 7 miles from Cortina d’Ampezzo.
Misurina, the Pearl of the Dolomites, is an exceptional area at around 5,761 feet in altitude, boasting a scenic lake encompassed by legendary peaks including the Tre Cime di Lavaredo, the Cadini di Misurina, the Sorapiss, and the Cristallo, which has been an iconic skiing destination since the 2009 UNESCO World Heritage.
There are 129 unique accommodation areas, all of which suit varying lodging preferences and budgets. From luxury hotels with spas, quaint mountain resorts, and lavish villas, there is something for everyone, whether traveling in large groups or more private parties.
Some of the most esteemed lodging sites include Hotel Faloria Mountain Spa Resort, Sporting Hotel Villa Blu, Europa, Hotels Bellevue Suites & Spa, De La Poste, Cortina, and much more.
Some venues charge around €1000 per night topped with exceptionally glamorous amenities, while others offer convenience and comfort with budget-friendly fees of around €50 per night. Check out details on all available accommodation sites, what they charge, here.
Ski areas in Cortina d’Ampezzo
Cortina d’Ampezzo is adorned with nature reserves and national parks, as well as plenty of artistic tradition and old village flair, topped with stunning scenic points from Lagazuoi at an altitude of 9,186 feet, Monte Cristallo at an altitude of 10,567 feet, and Tofana di Rozes at 10,580 feet in elevation.
The combined area poses approximately 74 miles of ski terrain with over 80 pistes and is serviced by 36 lifts.
Cortina d’Ampezzo features a wide range of terrain for skiers of all levels, with a diverse selection between 8 amazing ski areas. Check out a detailed visual map of the entire ski terrain here, and stay up to date with which runs are open in Falzarego, Tofana, Faloria, Cristallo, Misurina, San Vito di Cadore and Auronzo here.
Falzarego
Falzarego is a vast ski area that is most suited to novice skiers and intermediates, but advanced skiers have the most freedom of choice in the area with most terrain being more suited to a higher skiing experience level.
- Travel and Gondolas
This ski area is serviced by the Falzarego – Lagazuoi cable car, the Falzarego and Averau chairlifts, the Col Gallina ski lift, the Connessione 5 Torri Falzarego and Armentarola-Passo Falzarego ski buses, and 5 Torri which is a detachable chairlift with a canopy.
- Blue Runs for Novice Skiers
Novice skiers can enjoy the captivating blue runs that this area offers, including Col Gallina – Falzarego, Falzarego, Col Gallina, Limedes, Falzarego – Bai de Dones, Averau, and Raccordo Nuvolau.
- Red Runs for Intermediate Skiers
Intermediate skiers can benefit from the adrenaline-pumping red runs that this area offers, including Armentarola, Lagazuoi, Ovest, Potor, 5 Torri, Connection Faloria Col Druscie, Scoiattoli, Nuvolau, and Skiweg Croda Negra.
Fedare
This area is more suited for leisure and additional activities, which is fantastic for staying refreshed and entertained while out skiing on snowy peaks.
- Travel and Gondolas
This ski area is serviced by Fedare and Croda Negra, both of which are ½ chairlifts.
Tofana
This is an exceptional ski area, offering a wide variety of runs for skiers of all levels, as there is a delicate balance between terrains of varying difficulties. That being said, there are more runs suited for novice skiers in this area, and Tofana may be the best choice if you’re efficient with the fundamentals but are still getting the hang of various skiing techniques.
- Travel and Gondolas
This ski area is serviced by the Olimpia, the Gilardon/Roncato, the Tofana Express, and the Piè Tofana – Duca d’Aosta, all of which are detachable chairlifts, as well as the Cortina – Colfiere – Col Drusciè, which is a detachable gondola ropeway.
The selection of chairlifts includes the Baby Socrepes, the Ra Fréza, the Duca D’Aosta/Pomedes, the Pian Ra Valles, the Cacciatori, and the Bus Tofana. The area is also serviced by a selection of cable cars, including the Col Drusciè /Ra Valles and the Ra Valles/Cima Tofana, as well as the Bai de Dones-Cortina ski bus.
- Blue Runs for Novice Skiers
Novice skiers can enjoy the vast selection of captivating blue runs that this area offers, including Campo Scuola Socrepes, Costón del Falco, Prati, Rosà, Socrepes, Redoncè, San Zan, Col Tarón, Tofanina, Raccordo Piè Tofana, Muro de Ra Cioures, Stries, Aquila, and Pian Ra Valles.
- Red Runs for Intermediate Skiers
Intermediate skiers can benefit from the wide variety of adrenaline-pumping red runs that this area offers, including Valón, Canalone, Cacciatori, Stratofana Olimpica (Schuss), Caprioli, Busch, Canalini 1, and Variante Pian Ra Valles.
- Black Runs for Advanced Skiers
Expert skiers can enjoy the most challenging slopes in the area with more maximum thrill and will benefit from the various iconic black runs that this ski area offers. This includes Vertigine Bianca, Olympia – Stra Tofana (pista Schuss), Labirinti, Col Druscié A, and Forcella Rossa.
Faloria
Although this ski area does feature some terrain suited for novice skiers, there is certainly far more skiing opportunity for intermediate and expert skiers in this area. This would be a great choice if you have adequate skiing experience and are looking to take your expertise to the next level.
- Travel and Gondolas
This ski area is serviced by the Funivia Faloria cable car, the Sciovia Tondi di Faloria ski lift, detachable chairlifts including the Vitelli and the Seggiovia Pian de Ra Bigontina, as well as the Rio Gere – Pian de Ra Bigontina ¾ chairlift.
- Blue Runs for Novice Skiers
Novice skiers can enjoy the expansive, scenic, and captivating blue run that this area offers, namely Rio Gere – Pian de Ra Bigontina.
- Red Runs for Intermediate Skiers
Intermediate skiers can benefit from the adrenaline-pumping red runs that this area offers, including Freestyle Station, Faloria Normale, Tondi Normale, Vitelli Bassa, Slittone, and Monti.
- Black Runs for Advanced Skiers
Expert skiers can enjoy the most challenging slopes in the area more maximum thrill and will benefit from the various iconic black runs that this ski area offers. This includes Vitelli, Canalone Franchetti, Stratondi, Bigontina, and Scoiattolo.
Cristallo
This smaller ski area offers a small selection of enticing runs for novice and intermediate skiers, but it’s certainly more suitable for advanced skiers with only 1 blue run available.
- Travel and Gondolas
This ski area is serviced by Rio Gere/Son Forca which is a detachable chairlift with a canopy, as well as Padeon which is a detachable chairlift.
- Blue Runs for Novice Skiers
Novice skiers can enjoy the enchanting blue run that these areas offer, namely Son Forca.
- Red Runs for Intermediate Skiers
Intermediate skiers can benefit from the adrenaline-pumping red runs that this area offers, including Padeón, Creste Bianche, and Rio Gere.
Misurina
This smaller ski area offers a small selection of enticing runs for novice and intermediate skiers, but it’s certainly more suitable for advanced skiers with only 1 blue run and 1 black run available.
- Travel and Gondolas
This ski area is serviced by the Misurina – Col de Varda ½ chairlift, as well as the Loita ski lift.
- Blue Runs for Novice Skiers
Novice skiers can enjoy the entrancing blue run that these areas offer, namely Loita.
- Red Runs for Intermediate Skiers
Intermediate skiers can benefit from the adrenaline-pumping red runs that this area offers, including Col de Varda and Mazzorana.
- Black Runs for Advanced Skiers
Expert skiers can enjoy the most challenging iconic black run that this ski area offers, namely La Pala.
San Vito Di Cadore
This smaller ski area offers a smaller selection of enticing runs for novice, intermediate, and expert skiers, but it’s certainly more suitable for novice and intermediate skiers with only 1 black run available.
- Travel and Gondolas
This ski area is serviced by the Donariè ski lift, the Tambres ¾ chairlift, as well as the San Marco ½ chairlift.
- Blue Runs for Novice Skiers
Novice skiers can enjoy the captivating blue runs that this area offers, including Tambres 2, Tambres, Donarié, and Brosoàs.
- Red Runs for Intermediate Skiers
Intermediate skiers can benefit from the adrenaline-pumping red runs that this area offers, including Caprioli 1 and Antelao.
- Black Runs for Advanced Skiers
Expert skiers can enjoy an amazing black run that this ski area offers, namely Ciastèl.
Auronzo
This smaller ski area offers a small selection of alluring runs for the novice, intermediate, and expert skiers, but it’s certainly more suitable for novice skiers with only 1 red run and 1 black run available. This would be a great area to start your skiing vacation for skiers with less experience on snowy slopes.
- Travel and Gondolas
This ski area is serviced by the Ansiei ski lift, the Taiarezze/Malon ½ chairlift, and the Malón ¾ chairlift.
- Blue Runs for Novice Skiers
Novice skiers can enjoy the captivating blue runs that this area offers, including Campo Scuola Ansiei, Raccordo Follina, and Taiarezze.
- Red Runs for Intermediate Skiers
Intermediate skiers can benefit from an incredible red run in this ski area named A. Tomba.
- Black Runs for Advanced Skiers
Expert skiers can enjoy a challenging and captivating black run in this ski area named Fedo.
- Additional Features
The combined ski areas at Cortina d’Ampezzo features varying stopping points for refreshments and scenic relaxation, topped with Wi-Fi zones for optimal enjoyment at the resort.
Cortina d’Ampezzo also boasts a stunning snow park, where visitors of all ages and experience levels can experience thrill and adventure in a safe and comfortable designated area, as there is a setup for beginners and even professionals. Check out the Snowpark, Family Fun zones, and crossline areas here.
- Restaurants and Bars
Cortina d’Ampezzo offers a wide range of restaurants, serving Italian cuisine, tantalizing treats, delicious delicacies, and even tasty quick bites for on-the-go tourists. From Michelin-starred restaurants to homey pizzerias and pasta hotspots, there is something for everyone.
Some of the most popular restaurants in the area include the Al Passetto pizzeria, Il Ponte pizzeria, LP60 which serves exquisite cured meats like traditional Proscuttio, Al Camin which offers classic Italian meals, and Il Vizietto di Cortina which dishes out fine and elegant recipes including braised suckling pig, veal cheek in red wine, and classic Italian ravioli.
However, due to the conditions of reopening the resort, some of these establishments may not be open for service currently and may remain closed indefinitely. So, this will need to be confirmed prior to booking.
Ski Schools
There is a wide range of skiing lesson potential, with plenty of options for ski schools and both group or private lesson for persons of all ages, with varying skiing experience levels.
The Cortina Dolomiti Ski School at Cortina d’Ampezzo offers specials for children, free rides, daily tours, and even moonlight skiing, and they generally operate from around 8:00 am to 20:00 pm.
There are many other ski lesson providers in the area as well, and patrons have freedom of choice when deciding which service provider would be most suitable for individual needs.
Ski Rentals
Cortina d’Ampezzo features a vast selection of ski rental locations for persons with varying budgets and needs, all of which offer varying services, discounts, specials, and have varying terms of service and pricing systems.
Whether you’re looking for high-performance ski gear and equipment, or high-quality accessories and clothing, rest assured that there will be freedom of choice in selecting which ski rental location is the best fit for your needs.
Ski Passes
Cortina d’Ampezzo can be accessed with the purchase of a single or multiple day passes, or a pass that covers an entire season for the most optimal enjoyment of pristine snow conditions and exceptional skiing terrain.
These can be purchased online, or the tickets can be ordered upon arrival and collected. To view details on all available ski passes at this esteemed resort, check out the full list here.
Patrons should ensure that they are fully up to date with sales terms and conditions, which can be viewed here. It should be noted that all prices are set in euros, thus prices converted to US dollars are subject to fluctuation in accordance with exchange rates, and are averaged based on current exchange rates.
| Winter Opening Ski Passes | |||
| (28.11.2020 – 19.12.2020)
It should be noted that season-related dates may differ in varying valleys. |
|||
| Duration of Visit | Juniors
(born after 28.11.2004) |
Adults | Seniors
(born before 28.11.1955) |
| Half day (afternoon) | $31 | $44 | $44 |
| Half day (morning) | $32 | $45 | $45 |
| 1 day | $40 | $57 | $51 |
| 2 days | $79 | $112 | $101 |
| 3 days | $114 | $164 | $147 |
| 4 days | $146 | $209 | $188 |
| 5 days | $176 | $251 | $226 |
| 6 days | $201 | $288 | $259 |
| 7 days | $214 | $305 | $275 |
| 8 days | $239 | $342 | $307 |
| 9 days | $263 | $377 | $338 |
| 10 days | $287 | $410 | $368 |
| 11 days | $309 | $441 | $397 |
| 12 days | $330 | $471 | $424 |
| 13 days | $349 | $499 | $449 |
| 14 days | $367 | $525 | $473 |
| 15 days | $385 | $549 | $494 |
| 16 days | $401 | $572 | $515 |
| 17 days | $415 | $594 | $534 |
| 18 days | $434 | $620 | $559 |
| 19 days | $452 | $646 | $582 |
| 20 days | $470 | $671 | $604 |
| 21 days | $487 | $582 | $627 |
For those interested in enjoying fantastic snow and terrain conditions in the midst of skiing hype, ski passes valid for the high season are available.
| High Season Ski Passes | |||
| (20.12.2020 – 09.01.2021)
(31.01.2021 – 20.03.2021) It should be noted that season-related dates may differ in varying valleys. |
|||
| Duration of Visit | Juniors
(born after 28.11.2004) |
Adults | Seniors
(born before 28.11.1955) |
| Half day (afternoon) | $38 | $53 | $53 |
| Half day (morning) | $40 | $56 | $56 |
| 1 day | $50 | $71 | $56 |
| 2 days | $98 | $141 | $126 |
| 3 days | $143 | $204 | $184 |
| 4 days | $183 | $262 | $235 |
| 5 days | $219 | $313 | $282 |
| 6 days | $252 | $360 | $324 |
| 7 days | $276 | $382 | $343 |
| 8 days | $299 | $427 | $385 |
| 9 days | $330 | $471 | $424 |
| 10 days | $359 | $512 | $462 |
| 11 days | $386 | $552 | $497 |
| 12 days | $413 | $589 | $530 |
| 13 days | $437 | $624 | $561 |
| 14 days | $459 | $657 | $591 |
| 15 days | $481 | $687 | $619 |
| 16 days | $501 | $716 | $644 |
| 17 days | $519 | $742 | $668 |
| 18 days | $543 | $776 | $698 |
| 19 days | $566 | $808 | $728 |
| 20 days | $588 | $840 | $756 |
| 21 days | $609 | $870 | $784 |
For visitors who are wanting to get the most out of their stay, or are hoping to engage in a prolonged dream skiing vacation, ski passes which are valid for the entire duration of skiing season can be purchased as well.
| Season Ski Passes | |||
| (10.01.2021 – 30.01.2021)
(21.03.2021 – 03.05.2021) It should be noted that season-related dates may differ in varying valleys. |
|||
| Duration of Visit | Juniors
(born after 28.11.2004) |
Adults | Seniors
(born before 28.11.1955) |
| Half day (afternoon) | $33 | $47 | $47 |
| Half day (morning) | $35 | $50 | $50 |
| 1 day | $45 | $64 | $58 |
| 2 days | $88 | $126 | $113 |
| 3 days | $129 | $184 | $165 |
| 4 days | $165 | $235 | $212 |
| 5 days | $197 | $282 | $253 |
| 6 days | $226 | $324 | $292 |
| 7 days | $240 | $343 | $309 |
| 8 days | $269 | $385 | $346 |
| 9 days | $297 | $424 | $382 |
| 10 days | $323 | $462 | $415 |
| 11 days | $348 | $497 | $447 |
| 12 days | $371 | $530 | $477 |
| 13 days | $392 | $561 | $505 |
| 14 days | $414 | $591 | $531 |
| 15 days | $433 | $619 | $556 |
| 16 days | $451 | $644 | $579 |
| 17 days | $467 | $668 | $601 |
| 18 days | $488 | $698 | $628 |
| 19 days | $509 | $728 | $655 |
| 20 days | $529 | $756 | $680 |
| 21 days | $548 | $784 | $705 |
Children under the age of 8, or those who had been born after 28.11.2012 are rewarded with free ski passes for the same visitation duration purchased by the adult, with the exception of Season ski passes, Superski Family, 8 days in a season, DTL, value points cards and noon/afternoon tickets.
In order to get reductions and discounts related to age, such as with young children, juniors, and seniors, a valid form of identification dictating the date of birth of the individual must be presented at the sales office.
Après-ski and non-ski activities
For those who are seeking more fun in addition to plenty of skiing opportunities, the town and surrounding areas offer various amenities and events to keep visitors of all ages and calibers entertained for the entire duration of the vacation.
Additional Winter Activities
Misurina offers a stunning variety of additional activities in winter thanks to incredibly diverse surroundings. This includes ice skating on its iconic frozen lake, terrain for various other winter sports, snowshoeing, and tobogganing.
Nightlife and Parties
There are plenty of options for those seeking an après nightlife experience or party scene, as the town is adorned with many bars and clubs, making it a party hotspot in the Italian Alps.
Amazing Attractions
Cortina d’Ampezzo has a deep connection with nature, and this is evident at the Ampezzo Nature Reserver “Dolomiti d’Ampezzo” which is committed to protecting endangered animals and plants, falling within the Natura 2000 network. Check out more details here.
Shopping and Italian Trends
For visitors who appreciate fashion, upcoming trends, and unique style, there is a plethora of opportunity awaiting in Corso Italia, featuring many high fashion brands and iconic stores which are infamous for savvy accessories, clothing, and much more.
The area also boasts an assortment of shops that sell art, sports items, home furnishings, and even artisan stores. Check out a full list of accessible stores in the area here.
Exceptional Events
Cortina d’Ampezzo hosts an array of spectacular events for visitors with varying interests. This includes Cortina Fashion Week, Astronomitaly Dinner with the Stars, Photo Exhibitions, and much more. Check out the full list of upcoming events in Cortina here.
Conclusion
Pros of Skiing in Cortina d’Ampezzo
- Incredible scenery and panoramas of surrounding peaks
- Wide variety of runs for intermediate and advanced skiers
- Wonderful attractions, activities, and events in the area throughout winter
- Plenty of dining and shopping opportunity
- Ski lessons and ski rental services are available
- Great variety in ski passes, as well as a price reduction for children and seniors
Cons of Skiing in Cortina d’Ampezzo
- No green runs for skiers with less experience
- Not really suitable for beginner skiers, apart from quality ski lessons and snow park
Cortina d’Ampezzo boasts remarkable features, is suitable for skiers of all levels with there being more terrain available for novice and intermediate skiers, and accommodates varying budgets. This is topped with plenty of additional entertainment and activities for varying interests and age groups.
There is an endless amount of skiing opportunities, alternative attractions, and après experiences that await those visiting Cortina d’Ampezzo.