How to Visit Northern Italy in 2 Weeks: Dolomites, Venice & Rome
Planning a trip to Northern Italy? This 2 week itinerary (which can easily be shortened to 10 days) takes you from Venice to the Dolomites and Rome for the ultimate road trip adventure.
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Italy is a DREAM destination and this guide will help you truly savor the experience. This itinerary highlights both nature and history, combining iconic cities with some of the most beautiful alpine scenery I’ve ever seen.
Planned as a well-balanced 2 week Italy itinerary, it features an unforgettable Dolomites road trip with scenic drives, incredible hikes, and charming mountain towns before continuing south to some of Italy’s most historic destinations.
Short on time? Don’t worry, this trip can easily be shortened into a 10 day itinerary while still including the Dolomites and the most scenic stops in Northern Italy.
Overview of 2 Week Northern Italy Road Trip
Here’s a day-by-day breakdown of the itinerary:
| Day | Location | Overnight | Highlights |
| Day 1 | Venice → Dolomites | Ortisei | Fly into Venice, pick up rental car, drive to the Dolomites |
| Days 2-5 | Dolomites | Ortisei | Hiking and exploring Val Gardena |
| Day 6 | Dolomites | Cortina d’Ampezzo | Scenic drive through the mountains from Ortisei to Cortina d’Ampezzo |
| Days 7-10 | Dolomites | Cortina d’Ampezzo | Hiking, lakes, and iconic Dolomite landscapes |
| Day 11 | Dolomites → Venice | Venice | Drive back to Venice, spend the day exploring Venice |
| Day 12 | Venice → Rome | Rome | Enjoy the morning in Venice, catch a high speed train to Rome |
| Day 13 | Rome | Rome | Explore historic sites |
| Day 14 | Rome | Fly Home |
Best Time to Visit Northern Italy and the Dolomites
The Dolomites region is accessible year round and is a popular destination for hiking and skiing. However, for hiking and exploring the mountains, the best time to visit the Dolomites is during the summer and early fall.
Summer is very popular, and for good reason…the valleys are lush and green, wildflowers are in full bloom, and the weather is generally reliable for outdoor activities.
We visited in October and experienced crisp, sunny days and stunning fall foliage, making it one of the most beautiful times to see the region.
That said, it’s important to note that as the season shifts into late fall, amenities such as restaurants, mountain huts, and chair lifts/gondolas start to close for the season. Planning ahead and checking opening dates is key to making the most of your trip.
Here’s a quick rundown of the seasons:
- Spring (April–June): Fewer crowds, melting snow on the trails and spring wildflowers, but some high-altitude hikes may still be inaccessible.
- Summer (June–August): Ideal hiking weather, full access to lifts, huts, and trails; expect larger crowds in popular areas.
- Fall (September–October): Stunning foliage, cooler temperatures, and fewer tourists; some amenities may begin to close.
- Winter (December–March): Best for skiing and snow sports rather than hiking.
Driving in the Dolomites & Planning Your Route
In addition to this Dolomites road trip itinerary, this section covers everything you need to know about driving in the Dolomites. Driving gives you the flexibility to stop at scenic viewpoints, explore small villages, hit the hiking trails early, and adjust your schedule as needed.
I highly recommend renting a car to explore Northern Italy. We found renting a car to be both easy and convenient. We picked up our rental at the Venice airport, used it for the Dolomites portion of the trip, and then returned it to the airport before taking a water taxi into Venice. You do not need a car in Rome, it’s a very walkable city and you can easily rent e-scooters.
Driving in the Dolomites is generally straightforward, but there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Mountain roads: Many routes are winding and narrow, so take your time and drive carefully especially on the hairpin turns
- ZTL zones: Town centers (like Ortisei and Cortina) often have restricted traffic zones, so plan to park outside the city or village centers
- Parking & tolls: Parking is available in most towns but can fill up quickly during summer; some highways and tunnels require tolls such as the road from Venice to Ortisei
- Seasonal considerations: Some mountain passes may be closed in early spring or late fall due to snow, so check road conditions before setting out
International Driving Permit (IDP) for Italy
If you’re visiting Italy from outside the EU, it’s mandatory to carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to your regular driver’s license. While it isn’t always requested, having one can help avoid potential issues with car rental agencies or during traffic stops.
For U.S. travelers, an IDP can be easily obtained through AAA before your trip, you can apply online or in person. It costs $20 and you will need to fill out an application, show your driver’s license, and take a passport picture. Digital versions are not available, so plan in advance for processing and mailing.
Automatic vs. Manual Rental Cars in Italy
Most rental cars in Italy are manual transmission, and automatic vehicles are often limited and more expensive. If you’re not comfortable driving a manual car, it’s important to reserve an automatic well in advance to avoid limited availability, especially during peak travel season.
2 Week Northern Italy Itinerary
Day 1: Fly Into Venice & Drive to Ortisei
Arrive at Venice Marco Polo Airport and pick up your rental car before beginning your drive into the Dolomites.
The drive from Venice to Ortisei takes approximately 3 to 3.5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions, and offers your first glimpse of Northern Italy’s dramatic landscapes as the terrain gradually shifts from flat plains to alpine scenery.
Days 2–5: Ortisei & the Heart of the Dolomites
Ortisei is my favorite small town in the Dolomites. It feels like a real life alpine fairy tale, with charming streets, colorful buildings, and a picture perfect mountain backdrop.
The picturesque town center has a lovely pedestrian only area with restaurants, cafes, and shops. I especially loved the pastries at Cafe Corso, which also has a cozy outdoor patio.
Ortisei is a great introduction to the Dolomites and a convenient base for exploring Val Gardena and the nearby mountains. This part of the itinerary focuses on hiking in Ortisei, and with four full days here, you’ll have plenty of time to soak in alpine scenery.
Things to Do in Ortisei
Ortisei is one of the best bases in the Dolomites for hiking, scenic cable cars, and beautiful landscapes. Here are a few things you can’t miss:
- Take the cable car or hike to Seceda and walk along the iconic ridgeline
- Visit Val di Funes and photograph the Santa Magdalena church viewpoint
- Hike the Adolf Munkel Trail and stop for lunch at a traditional mountain hut (rifugio)
- Explore the alpine meadows and walking trails of Alpe di Siusi
- Wander through Ortisei town and enjoy local cafes and Tyrolean cuisine
For a detailed breakdown of hiking trails, be sure to check out my Ortisei Hiking Guide where I share everything you need to plan your hikes in this area 🥾
Day 6: Scenic Drive to Cortina d’Ampezzo
To get to our next destination, you will take one of the most scenic drives in the Dolomites as you make your way from Ortisei to Cortina d’Ampezzo. As you wind through the mountain roads, you’ll pass through charming villages and countless viewpoints.
The drive itself takes approximately 1.5 hours, but you’re going to want to take it slow and make a few stops because it is beautiful!
Optional scenic stops along the way:
- Passo Gardena: Mountain pass with dramatic views and easy roadside pull offs
- Small mountain villages: Stop for coffee or lunch because road trips require fuel
- Short hikes or viewpoints: Choose an easy trail to stretch your legs and enjoy the scenery
This is a great day to add a short, low effort hike to break up the drive before continuing on to Cortina d’Ampezzo. I recommend stopping in the Passo Gardena area, which is absolutely stunning. Even without hiking, the views alone make it worth the stop.
We wanted to do a short hike, so we followed the trail signs toward Gran Cir. While the route is technically a via ferrata, it’s very beginner-friendly and doesn’t require special equipment. We didn’t go all the way to the summit, as the trail becomes steeper and requires the use of safety cables, but we stopped at a wide open viewpoint along the way and were more than satisfied with the views.
Arrive in Cortina d’Ampezzo by late afternoon or early evening, check into your accommodation, and enjoy a relaxed night in town after a full day of slow travel and mountain views.
Day 7-10: Cortina d’Ampezzo & Surrounding Dolomites
Cortina d’Ampezzo is an upscale mountain ski town in northern Italy, often referred to as the “Pearl of the Dolomites.” It has a larger, more lively town center than Ortisei, with a touch of glamour that sets it apart.
Cortina d’Ampezzo gained worldwide attention after hosting events during the 2026 Winter Olympics. The global stage highlighted the incredible mountain landscapes that make this area one of the most beautiful places in the Dolomites.
Spend the next four days based in Cortina d’Ampezzo, immersed in nature. From Cortina, you’ll have easy access to many of the Dolomites’ most spectacular views, and with several days here, you can explore at a relaxed pace and fully experience what makes this area so special.
Things to Do in Cortina d’Ampezzo
- Hike to Lago di Sorapis for its famous turquoise waters
- Explore the Cinque Torri area and its and war remnants
- Visit Passo Giau for panoramic mountain views
- Wander through Cortina town and enjoy the restaurants and shops
- Visit Lago di Braies and rent a rowboat or hike the scenic loop around the lake
- Hike the Tre Cime di Lavaredo loop, one of the most famous trails in the Dolomites
- Hike to Lago Federa via the Croda da Lago circuit, with a stop at Rifugio Croda da Lago for food and drinks
For trail recommendations and hiking logistics, see my complete Cortina d’Ampezzo Hiking Guide 🥾
Day 11: Drive to Venice, Explore the City & Stay Overnight
After recharging in the beauty of the Dolomites, it is time to close out the road trip and head to Venice for new scenery in one of the world’s most romantic cities.
Get an early start and drive from Cortina d’Ampezzo to Venice Marco Polo Airport, where you’ll return your rental car before heading into the city. You will not need a rental car for the remainder of the trip, Venice and Rome have excellent public transportation options.
How to Get from Venice Airport to Venice (Water Bus vs. Water Taxi)
After returning your rental car at Venice Marco Polo Airport, follow the signs for “Water Transport / Vaporetto.” From the terminal, it’s an easy, well marked walk outside to the dock area where Venice’s water buses and taxis depart.
To take the water bus (vaporetto) into Venice, purchase a ticket at the ticket counter or self-service machines near the dock, or use a mobile ticket if you already have one.
The most common route from the airport is Line Alilaguna, which connects the airport directly to several major stops in Venice. Once onboard, store your luggage in the designated area and enjoy the scenic ride across the lagoon and through the Grand Canal as you approach the city.
Water Bus vs. Water Taxi in Venice
- Water Bus (Vaporetto) : This is the most affordable option and a great choice if you’re not in a rush. Water buses run on set routes with multiple stops and offer a scenic, budget friendly way to enter Venice from the airport. Expect a longer travel time, but excellent views along the way.
- Water Taxi: Water taxis are significantly more expensive but offer a direct, private transfer straight to or near your hotel. This option is ideal if you’re traveling with lots of luggage, arriving late, or want the fastest, fanciest, and most convenient ride into the city.
My Experience Using Venice Water Transportation
We took a vaporetto from the airport to the Rialto stop when arriving in Venice, which was easy to navigate and a scenic way to enter the city. However, carrying luggage through busy streets felt a little overwhelming as first time visitors trying to navigate to our hotel.
On departure, we opted for a private water taxi to the train station, which was more expensive but far more convenient and stress free.
Best Things to Do in Venice
Venice is a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognized for its lagoon, canals, and stunning architecture. There’s beauty around every corner in Venice. Also, it’s important to mention that you should expect crowds as Venice is one of the most visited Italian cities.
After checking into your hotel or dropping off your bags if your room isn’t ready yet, head out to explore and grab lunch. Afterwards, spend the rest of the day wandering Venice’s narrow streets, crossing canal bridges, and soaking in the atmosphere as the city comes alive in the evening.
Venice Highlights
- Saint Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco) and the surrounding area
- A walk or boat ride along the Grand Canal
- The Rialto Bridge and nearby market area
- Take a gondola ride through Venice’s smaller canals for a classic experience
- Climb the spiral staircase at Scala Contarini del Bovolo for rooftop views over Venice
- Explore quiet side streets and canals away from the main crowds
- Stop for gelato at Suso Gelatoteca
- Enjoy a coffee at Caffe Florian in St. Mark’s Square, one of the oldest cafes in the world
- Take a sunset stroll along the waterfront
👉 For a more detailed breakdown of what to see, where to go, and how to plan your time, see my One Day in Venice itinerary.
Day 12: Train to Rome
Start your morning early with one last walk through Venice before the crowds arrive. Visit St. Mark’s Square during the quiet early hours, take photos at the Rialto Bridge, and stop for a coffee at the historic Caffe Florian.
This ended up being my favorite memory of visiting Venice. The city felt calm and peaceful, with quiet canals and nearly empty streets. It was the perfect chance to take a few final photos and enjoy one last look at the city before departing for Rome.
Train Travel to Rome
Plan to book your train transfer to Rome around hotel checkout time and make your way to Venezia Santa Lucia train station. The high-speed train journey takes about 4 hours and is a comfortable and scenic way to travel between the two cities.
Once you arrive in Rome, check into your accommodations or drop off your bags before heading out for your first evening. Keep the night relaxed with light sightseeing, a nice dinner, and a walk through the city as it lights up after dark.
For a detailed plan, follow my 2 days in Rome itinerary to make the most of your visit.
Best Things to Do on Your First Night in Rome
- Explore the charming Trastevere neighborhood, known for its lively streets, restaurants, and relaxed atmosphere
- Enjoy your first dinner at a local trattoria and soak in the evening energy of the city
- Visit Castel Sant’Angelo for history and panoramic city views
- Walk through nearby piazzas and historic streets as the city lights up after dark
- Rent electric scooters and cruise past some of Rome’s illuminated landmarks for a fun and memorable introduction to the city
Day 13: Rome
The plan for today is to hit the major attractions and experience the highlights of Rome. Wake up early to start your day before the crowds. You will want comfortable walking shoes for today because you will be roaming all over the city.
Best Things to Do in Rome
- Wake up early to visit the Trevi Fountain before the crowds
- Explore the Pantheon and enjoy a light breakfast or coffee nearby
- Take photos outside the Coliseum, then tour inside to experience its history
- Visit the Roman Forum and walk through the ruins of ancient Rome
- Stroll through Piazza Navona and admire the fountains and lively atmosphere
- Climb the Spanish Steps and enjoy the classic city views
- Visit Vatican City, home to St. Peter’s Basilica, St. Peter’s Square, and the famous Sistine Chapel
Day 14: Fly Home
The final day of this northern Italy itinerary is a travel day. Depending on your flight time, you might grab a quick coffee or pastry at a nearby cafe and take one last stroll through the city.
Check out of your accommodations and make your way to the airport, giving yourself plenty of time for travel and security. This is a good time to start planning your next Italian getaway. 😂
Best Places to Visit in the Dolomites
This list highlights some my favorites places to visit in the Dolomites. Don’t miss out on these locations when visiting Northern Italy.
- Seceda – Famous for its dramatic ridgeline, breathtaking views, and access to hiking trails that showcase the iconic Dolomites scenery.
- Alpe di Siusi – The largest alpine meadow in Europe, perfect for walks, photography, and panoramic views of rolling hills.
- Lago di Braies – A stunning lake with turquoise waters, ideal for hiking around the perimeter or renting a boat to enjoy the scenery from the water.
- Tre Cime di Lavaredo – One of the most iconic mountain groups in the Dolomites, with hiking loops and incredible photo opportunities.
- Passo Gardena – A scenic mountain pass offering stunning viewpoints and short trails to stretch your legs during a road trip.
Where to Stay
Planning where to stay during your Italy trip is an important part of creating a smooth and enjoyable travel experience. Choosing accommodations strategically allows you to maximize sightseeing, minimize travel stress, and experience the best of each region.
Here’s a breakdown of recommended places to stay in each key destination on this two week Italy itinerary.
Ortisei: Chalets, guesthouses, hotels, or Airbnbs; close to hiking trails and cable cars
Cortina d’Ampezzo: Town-center hotels for convenience or hillside chalets for alpine views; guesthouses and Airbnbs available
Venice: Hotels in the historic center for sightseeing, or quieter neighborhoods like Cannaregio/Dorsoduro for a more local experience
Rome: Hotels in the city center for walking access to major sights, or guesthouses/Airbnbs in neighborhoods like Trastevere for a quieter atmosphere
💡 Tip: Book accommodations early, especially in summer and fall.
How to Shorten This Itinerary to 10 Days
This Northern Italy itinerary can easily be shortened to 10 days if you have less time but still want to experience the highlights of the Dolomites, Venice, and Rome. A condensed 10 day itinerary focuses on the most scenic, must-see stops while cutting down travel and hiking days.
To save time, consider the following adjustments:
- Limit your stay in Ortisei to 2–3 full days, focusing on key hikes like Seceda and Alpe di Siusi, and skip longer excursions to Val di Funes.
- Reduce Cortina d’Ampezzo to 2–3 days, prioritizing must see spots such as Tre Cime di Lavaredo, Lago di Braies, and Lago Federa.
- Keep Venice as a one night stop, focusing on top highlights: St. Mark’s Square, Rialto Bridge, and a gondola or walking tour of the canals.
- Maintain Rome as one full day plus a half-day arrival, prioritizing landmarks like the Coliseum, Roman Forum, and Trevi Fountain.
Quick Reference: Shortened 10-Day Northern Italy Itinerary
| Day | Location | Overnight | Highlights |
| Day 1 | Venice → Ortisei (Dolomites) | Ortisei | Arrive in Venice, pick up rental car, drive to the Dolomites |
| Day 2 | Ortisei | Ortisei | Seceda hike |
| Day 3 | Ortisei | Ortisei | Alpe di Siusi |
| Day 4 | Cortina d’Ampezzo | Cortina d’Ampezzo | Drive to Cortina, stop at viewpoints along the way |
| Day 5 | Cortina d’Ampezzo | Cortina d’Ampezzo | Tre Cime di Lavaredo hike |
| Day 6 | Cortina d’Ampezzo | Cortina d’Ampezzo | Lago di Braies, relaxed exploring |
| Day 7 | Venice | Venice | Drive to Venice, St. Mark’s Square, Rialto Bridge, gondola or walking tour |
| Day 8 | Rome | Rome | Train to Rome, check in, relaxed evening |
| Day 9 | Rome | Rome | Colosseum, Roman Forum, Trevi Fountain |
| Day 10 | Rome | — | Final day, fly home |
Even with a shorter schedule, this 10 day itinerary allows you to experience the highlights of northern Italy, perfect for those with limited time.
Tips for Planning a 2 Week Trip to Italy
Planning a dream trip northern Italy can feel like a lot, but a few practical tips can make your journey smoother and more enjoyable.
Quick Tips
- Budget: Northern Italy can be expensive; plan for accommodations, meals, and activities, with a small buffer for unexpected costs. Travel in shoulder season for cheaper accommodation prices.
- Fuel Costs: If you’re renting a car, consider a fuel efficient car for long drives in the Dolomites.
- Driving Apps & Navigation: Use Google Maps or Waze, and download offline maps for areas with limited signal. The same applies to All Trails app for hiking.
- International Driver’s Permit: Required if you’re traveling from outside the EU; carry it alongside your regular license. This should be obtained prior to your trip.
Whether you’re traveling for adventure, culture, or simply to soak in the scenery, Northern Italy offers something for everyone. Save this itinerary for your trip, share it with your travel partner, and start dreaming about your own Italian adventure!
Related Italy Guides
If you’re looking for more in-depth guides, check out my Ortisei Hiking Guide, Cortina d’Ampezzo Hiking Guide, One Day in Venice, and 2 Days in Rome Itinerary to plan every detail of your trip.
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