The Dolomites Photo Spots
Dreaming of a fairytale escape? The Dolomites, one of Europe’s most stunning photo locations, is where you’ll find it. This mountain range in Northern Italy spans distinct regions and national parks, each offering unforgettable views. Beyond the famous mountain peaks, the Dolomites are home to breathtaking mountain roads that traverse mountain passes, alpine meadows bursting with wildflowers, and charming villages filled with hidden gems. Looking for the best photography spots to capture the splendour of the Italian Alps? In this blog, we’ve got you covered with the top 10 places to take photos in the Dolomites. 🇮🇹
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TLDR
- Explore the shoreline or glide into the calm waters of Lago di Braies.
- Experience the best of nature and medieval charm at Alpe di Siusi and Castelrotto.
- Find ultimate serenity along with beautiful boathouses and docks at Lago di Caldonazzo.
- Relish the seasonal beauty and the unspoiled nature of Valsugana.
- Discover countless vantage points for alpine majesty around Laghetto di Fiè.
- Feel like you’re stepping straight into a painting when you visit Lago di Carezza.
- Witness the unique blend of German and Mediterranean traditions in Bolzano.
- Enjoy city delights, unique architecture and fascinating cuisine in Merano.
- Travel from one valley to another through the dreamy Passo Gardena in Corvara in Badia.
- Embrace the gentle charm of the European countryside in San Costantino.
1. Lago di Braies
Considered the crown jewel of the Italian Dolomites, Lago di Braies, or Pragser Wildsee in German, is a picture-perfect turquoise lake framed by — and reflecting — the rugged beauty of the Seekofel mountain and the dense pine forest that surrounds it. 🌲
So what are the best ways to explore the lake? You can choose one of the hiking trails along its shoreline or rent a wooden rowboat to soak in the alpine landscape from the water. The latter has become a favourite among influencers, but despite the hype, floating on Lago di Braies’ waters is a truly dream-like experience for anyone! 👍
2. Alpe di Siusi (Castelrotto)
Located in South Tyrol, Alpe di Siusi, or Seiser Alm, is the largest high plateau in Europe and a wonderland for landscape photography thanks to its cinematic peaks, including Sassolungo, along with its stunning alpine meadows, mountain huts and forests of pine and larch. In other words, this is a must-visit destination in the Dolomites if you want to experience nature at its finest and, of course, have fabulous outdoor photoshoots. 👌
While you’re there, don’t miss Castelrotto, a medieval town filled with well-preserved buildings, including the iconic bell tower that dominates the skyline. Nearby, the small village of Compatsch is another must-visit spot with easy access to nature for outdoor adventures and more postcard-worthy places to take photos in The Dolomites.
Extra Fly tip: The coffin gondola on Sassolungo Mountain offers a thrilling (and for some, creepy!) experience in the Dolomites. 🚡
Photo: Nadia in The Dolomites for Flytographer. Jesse and partner capture memories in The Dolomites with a proposal photoshoot.
3. Lago di Caldonazzo
Open any photography guide of the region, and you’ll see that this is one of the best places to take photos in the Dolomites. Nestled in the Trentino area in the Valsugana Valley, Lago di Caldonazzo has shores dotted with picturesque villages and pebble beaches. You can hike around the lake to capture the spectacular landscape and experience the serene atmosphere as you discover different nooks and crannies, including wooden boathouses and charming docks that offer fantastic photo ops. 😍
Extra Fly Tip: The Dolomites are full of easy hiking trails to explore. Check out the hike to the Cadini di Misurina viewpoint or the Passo Giau trail, both offering stunning views of Ra Gusela, one of the Dolomites’ most prominent peaks. 🏔️
4. Valsugana
As one of the Dolomites’ best-kept secrets, Valsugana Valley is a landscape photographer’s dream! The valley is renowned for its dramatic views of the Dolomitic Alps and its unspoiled natural environment, home to dense forests, pristine lakes and breathtaking meadows.
This is a place of seasonal beauty, with each season offering its unique charm and stunning backdrops for photos: summer fills the landscape with wildflowers in full bloom; autumn brings warm, golden hues; and winter transforms the valley into a snowy wonderland. ❄️
Extra tip: Another off-the-beaten-path gem in the Dolomites is Misurina Lake. At a high altitude, this natural wonder showcases the quintessential alpine landscape and the rugged beauty of the Tre Cime di Lavaredo, also known as the Three Peaks or the Drei Zinnen. The best part? Fewer crowds make this spot one of the most peaceful places to take photos in The Dolomites. 😌
5. Laghetto di Fiè
There’s no shortage of lakes where you can experience a touch of alpine fantasy in the Dolomites, and nestled at the foot of Schlern Mountain, this one certainly delivers jaw-dropping photo opportunities. You can take in the alpine scenery from a picnic table or a wooden jetty, but if you ask us, walking along the trails surrounding Laghetto di Fiè is the best way to find scenic viewpoints and immerse yourself in pristine natural beauty. The magical effect of the rocky cliffs reflecting on crystal-clear waters is truly stunning, and you might even discover small bathing spots perfect for a refreshing dip. 💦
The seasons showcase the best of this place too. In winter, for example, the lake becomes a popular spot for ice skating, offering a playground for winter adventures and exploration. ⛸️
6. Lago di Carezza
Visiting the lakes in the Dolomites is an unforgettable experience, and Lago di Carezza is like stepping into a painting! Though smaller than the others, this lake is nestled in the heart of the Dolomites and offers vibrant turquoise waters, lush spruce-fir forests, and breathtaking views of the Latemar mountain range.
The easy hiking trail that circles the lake is perfect for outdoor photoshoots, with plenty of opportunities to capture the landscape from various angles. Don’t miss taking some fantastic wide-angle shots from a viewing platform that perfectly frames the scene. 📸
Extra Fly Tip: Since Lago di Carezza is one of the most popular lakes in the region, early mornings are the best time to visit, especially during golden hour. 🌄 That’s how you dodge the crowds and snap those perfect photos with no one else in sight. 😉
7. Bolzano
Sure, the Dolomites are all about glorious nature, but they’re also home to cities bursting with cultural and architectural gems. 🎭 Bolzano, nestled in lush valleys, is one such hidden treasure. The town’s showstopper is the Bolzano Cathedral — a Gothic masterpiece with a roof that’s nothing short of stunning. Wander around, and you’ll discover pristine parks, a flower-lined promenade and, who knows, maybe even a hidden trattoria with the best pasta you ever had. 🍝
What makes Bolzano even more special? The delightful blend of German and Mediterranean traditions, which gives you a one-of-a-kind mix of masterful architecture, rich culture and picture-perfect nature. 👏 This is a must-stop for fascinating places to take photos in The Dolomites!
8. Merano
Speaking of world-class Alpine towns and delightful cultural blends, we can’t overlook Merano — an elegant city near the Austrian border with medieval churches, hilltop castles, Art nouveau buildings and charming stone bridges. The blend of cultures is truly enchanting, reflected in the city’s architecture, traditions and cuisine. You know what that means: Italian pasta and strudel, anyone? 😋
Extra Fly Tip: For more city delights, be sure to add Cortina d’Ampezzo to your bucket list. Known as the “Queen of the Dolomites,” this stunning town will amaze you with the majestic beauty of the Cinque Torri rock formation.
9. Passo Gardena (Corvara in Badia)
With its show-stopping vistas of jagged mountains and lush meadows, Passo Gardena seamlessly connects the valleys of Val Gardena and Val Badia. This mountain pass is a dream spot for the most majestic places to take photos in The Dolomites.
At the southeastern end, you’ll find Corvara in Badia — a charming alpine village that’s perfect for admiring traditional Tyrolean architecture and visiting the most Instagrammable chalets you can imagine. 🏠
Just a short trip from Corvara, the town of Ortisei is another hidden gem where you can soak in more of the region’s picturesque landscapes, rich culture and endless outdoor activities.
Extra Fly Tips: If you love exploring mountain passes, don’t miss Falzarego Pass. History buffs will appreciate this one too, as it also holds historical significance as the site of intense battles during World War I. 😯 For even more mountain splendour, check out Seceda, in the Puez Odle Nature Park in Val Gardena. Hop on a cable car to the top of Seceda for breathtaking, otherworldly views. 🚠
10. San Costantino
Perched on a hilltop and surrounded by breathtaking alpine views, San Constantino feels like a secret getaway from the hustle and bustle of the world. Snap your best shot in front of the San Costantino church, a picture-perfect gem framed by the majestic Dolomites. 💎 Then take a stroll through the village, soaking in the gentle charm of Europe’s countryside.
Extra Fly Tip: San Constantino is just a stone’s throw from Pollino National Park, Italy’s largest national park. This natural wonder is famous for its rugged mountain landscapes, dense forests and diverse wildlife. 🦉
Capturing Memories in The Dolomites
Every corner of the Dolomites will transport you to an alpine wonderland where time seems to slow down. Here are some extra honourable mentions of things to do:
- Explore the area further via the Rifugio Auronzo Toll Road, a scenic mountain route that provides direct access to the Tre Cime di Lavaredo. 🚗
- For more Instagrammable backdrops, visit the San Giovanni Church in the Val di Funes valley. It’s just a short walk from the parking lot to a marked photo spot that’s perfect for capturing striking pictures. Also, be sure to visit the other San Giovanni Church, this one in Baroque style and near the village of Santa Maddalena, also known as Santa Magdalena. ⛪️
- If you’re a hiker, Rifugio Locatelli and Rifugio Lagazuoi are among the most famous mountain huts where you can stop to rest as you explore the Dolomites. 🥾
To make the most of your trip to the Dolomites, reach out to one of our local Flytographers and let them capture your magical moments as these majestic mountains silently watch over you. 💙
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