Best Photo Spots in Dolomites (Map + GPS Locations)
- Filip Hrebenda
- Jun 23
- 17 min read
Updated: Jun 29
If a ranking of Europe's most beautiful and photogenic mountains were ever compiled, the Italian Dolomites would undoubtedly be among the top contenders. The Dolomites are a true paradise for landscape photographers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Towering, majestic peaks, crystal-clear alpine lakes, and rolling meadows are just some of the reasons why photographers are drawn back to this stunning mountain range time and time again. Travel regulations and access rules in the Dolomites are constantly evolving, which can make it challenging to reach some of the most sought-after locations. That's exactly why this guide was created. In this article, we'll show you 10 best photo spots in Dolomites, complete with detailed directions on how to get there, the best time to visit, and what you shouldn't forget to bring.
Dolomites Photo Spots Overview
1.) Tre Cime di Lavaredo
The first of the best photo spots in Dolomites we'll cover is also one of the most iconic spots in the Europe: the legendary Tre Cime di Lavaredo. These dramatic rock towers are among the most photogenic mountain formations in the world. As a result, they attract not only hikers but also countless landscape photographers every year. Despite their popularity, Tre Cime has managed to retain its unique alpine atmosphere.
How to get there
Although the peaks sit at a relatively high elevation, reaching them is surprisingly straightforward. On the southern side of the massif stands Rifugio Auronzo, a mountain hut accessible via a paved road. Next to the hut is a large parking area, which serves as the starting point for most hikes around Tre Cime. From the parking lot, you can circle the towers from either side. The most famous viewpoints are reached via the trail that runs along the western side of the massif. From the parking area, expect a walk of approximately 2 km (1.2 miles) with around 90 meters (295 ft) of elevation gain.
GPS coordinates: N 46°37.43548', E 12°17.36337'
The western trail leads to several compositionally interesting photography locations. After roughly 2 km, you'll reach a small lake and stream that create an excellent foreground for the towering peaks behind them. During the summer months, the area around the lake is filled with blooming rhododendrons, adding beautiful color to the landscape. This is one of the main reasons why I recommend visiting the western side of Tre Cime during summer.
But what if you're planning to visit the Dolomites in autumn? Should you skip Tre Cime from your itinerary? Absolutely not.
Outside the summer season, it becomes much harder to find compelling foreground compositions on the western side. For this reason, I prefer photographing Tre Cime from the eastern side in autumn. You can start from the same parking lot at Rifugio Auronzo, but this time head east and follow the trail around the towers toward Forcella Lavaredo Pass. The route is not technically demanding and can be completed by anyone with an average level of fitness.
GPS coordinates: N 46°37.40012', E 12°18.73998'
Photography Tips
Be sure to bring a wide-angle lens with a focal length of at least 16 mm (full-frame equivalent) to capture the entire scene in a single frame. A telephoto lens can also be useful for isolating distant peaks and creating more compressed mountain compositions.
If you're planning to photograph sunset or blue hour, don't forget a headlamp, as there are no sources of artificial light in the area. Warm clothing is also essential, even during summer, as temperatures can drop quickly at higher elevations.
Parking Information
The parking area at Rifugio Auronzo is accessed from the famous Lago di Misurina. From the lake, follow the road north past the smaller Lago d'Antorno. Parking now requires an advance reservation and currently costs €40 per day. Important: The ticket is valid only until midnight, not for a full 24-hour period. After several kilometers of climbing, you'll reach the large parking area next to the hut. The road and Rifugio Auronzo are typically open from June through the end of October.
2.) Lago Antorno
Lago Antorno is a small alpine lake that offers beautiful views of the iconic Tre Cime di Lavaredo from the south, as well as the dramatic Cadini di Misurina mountain group rising to the east of the lake. Compared to nearby Lago di Misurina, Lago Antorno is generally less crowded with tourists, making it a more peaceful location to visit. However, it remains a favorite among photographers, especially during sunrise and sunset. The reason is simple: accessibility.
How to get there
The road leading to the Rifugio Auronzo parking area passes directly beside the lake, and a reasonably large parking lot is located just a short walk away, making this spot easily accessible to photographers of all fitness levels. A walking trail circles the lake and features several benches, making Lago Antorno an excellent place to relax after a photography session or a day of hiking. Nearby, you'll also find Rifugio Lago Antorno, where you can enjoy a meal during the summer and autumn seasons.
GPS coordinates: N 46°35.65137', E 12°15.86117'
Best time for photography
Lago Antorno is photogenic throughout the year. Personally, I enjoy visiting most during autumn, when the larch trees surrounding the lake turn vibrant shades of orange and gold.
The lake is also particularly beautiful in early winter, when the first snowfall arrives but the water has not yet completely frozen. During this period, the lake surface is often calm, creating stunning reflections of both Tre Cime di Lavaredo and Cadini di Misurina.
If your goal is to photograph Tre Cime illuminated by direct sunlight, plan your visit during the evening golden hour. In the morning, the sun rises beside the massif rather than directly lighting its southern face.
Photography tips
Bring a wide-angle lens with a focal length of at least 16 mm (full-frame equivalent) to capture the entire scene. If you want to include reflections in your composition, an ND filter can be useful, as the lake surface is often disturbed by wind. Since the shoreline can become muddy, especially after rain or during snowmelt, I also recommend wearing waterproof hiking boots.
Parking information
The parking area next to Lago Antorno is currently free of charge and large enough to accommodate visitors even during the busiest parts of the day, so finding a parking space is usually not a problem.
3.) Cinque Torri
Another remarkable mountain location in the Dolomites is Cinque Torri, a group of distinctive rock towers located west of Cortina d'Ampezzo in the Veneto region. The name translates to "Five Towers," referring to the five dramatic limestone formations that rise above the surrounding alpine meadows. Cinque Torri also holds significant historical importance. During World War I, this area formed part of the front line between Italian and Austro-Hungarian forces. Today, visitors can explore the extensive open-air museum known as Museo all'Aperto della Grande Guerra, where preserved trenches, observation posts, and military structures provide an authentic glimpse into life on the alpine battlefield. However, Cinque Torri attracts more than just history enthusiasts. The towers are a popular destination for climbers and, of course, photographers who are drawn to their unique shape and stunning mountain surroundings.
How to get there
At the base of the towers lies Rifugio Cinque Torri, which can be reached by car during the summer and autumn months via a narrow, steep road winding through the forest. From the hut, follow the rocky trail west toward Rifugio Scoiattoli, which offers one of the most photogenic views of the western side of Cinque Torri. The walk covers approximately 1 km (0.6 miles) and 100 meters (330 ft) of elevation gain.
GPS coordinates: N 46°30.50333', E 12°2.89565'
Best time for photography
Between Cinque Torri and Rifugio Scoiattoli lies a gently rolling alpine meadow that becomes covered with wildflowers during the summer months. For this reason, summer is our favorite season to photograph this location. In autumn, the grass typically dries out and loses much of its color. However, this is hardly a disadvantage when the first rays of the morning golden hour illuminate the meadow, enhancing its warm golden tones. The area is equally photogenic in winter, when the rolling hills are blanketed in fresh snow. During the winter season, access is typically possible only via the cable car that serves Rifugio Scoiattoli.
Photography tips
Bring a wide-angle lens with a focal length of at least 16 mm (full-frame equivalent) to capture the towers and surrounding landscape in a single frame.
A telephoto lens is also highly recommended, allowing you to isolate the distant mountain peaks and create more compressed alpine compositions.
Parking information
Several parking areas are located near Rifugio Cinque Torri. The parking lot directly beside the hut is reserved for overnight guests, so most visitors will need to use the smaller parking areas located before the entrance barrier.
These parking spots often fill up during the day, especially in peak season, so arriving early in the morning is strongly recommended.
4.) Passo Giau
Passo Giau is one of the most famous and highest mountain passes in the Dolomites, sitting at an elevation of 2,236 meters (7,336 ft) above sea level. The pass is known for its vast rolling alpine meadows and breathtaking panoramic views in every direction.
The western approach to the pass follows a winding mountain road featuring as many as 29 hairpin turns, making Passo Giau a favorite destination not only for photographers but also for driving enthusiasts. During the peak season, you'll encounter plenty of photographers here thanks to the pass's easy accessibility and the number of photogenic peaks that surround it. Towering above the pass are several iconic mountains, including Ra Gusela, Torre Anna, and the more distant Tofana di Rozes. Looking east from the pass, you'll see the distinctive pointed summit of Cima Ambrizzola, while to the west lies the famous Marmolada, whose massive glacier-covered slopes create a striking subject from this perspective.
How to get there
With its dramatic scenery and easy access, Passo Giau is rightly considered one of the most popular mountain passes in the Dolomites. From the main parking area on the southern side of the road, follow the well-trodden path toward Punta di Zonia. Within just a few minutes, you'll reach an elevated viewpoint offering spectacular views across the surrounding mountain landscape.
GPS coordinates: N 46°28.84595', E 12°3.41373'
Best time for photography
Because Passo Giau offers unobstructed views in all directions, it is highly photogenic during both sunrise and sunset. In the early morning, temperature inversions frequently form west of the pass, often surrounding the slopes of Marmolada and creating beautiful atmospheric conditions for photography. Sunset can be equally rewarding, as the surrounding peaks catch the warm alpenglow that the Dolomites are famous for.
Photography tips
A wide-angle lens with a focal length of at least 16 mm (full-frame equivalent) is ideal for capturing the expansive landscapes and dramatic foregrounds around the pass. A telephoto lens is also highly recommended, allowing you to isolate distant peaks and create more compressed mountain compositions, particularly when photographing the western side of the pass.
Parking information
The parking area at Passo Giau is relatively large and currently free of charge. So far, I've never had trouble finding a parking space here, even during the busiest summer months. However, as the Dolomites continue to grow in popularity each year, it's still wise to allow extra time and arrive early, especially if you're planning to photograph sunrise or sunset.
5.) Lago di Sorapis
Lago di Sorapis is one of the most famous and beautiful lakes in the entire Dolomites. Located near Cortina d'Ampezzoand the well-known Lago di Misurina, it is best known for its striking turquoise water, which sets it apart from most other alpine lakes in the region.
Towering above the lake is Punta Sorapis, creating a dramatic mountain backdrop that makes this location exceptionally photogenic.
How to get there
The lake can be reached via a hiking trail that starts at Passo Tre Croci, a mountain pass situated between Cortina d'Ampezzo and Misurina. From the trailhead, the hike to the lake covers approximately 5.6 km (3.5 miles) one way. Along the route, you'll gain around 430 meters (1,410 ft) of elevation and descend approximately 300 meters (985 ft). The round-trip hike therefore totals roughly 11 km (6.8 miles) with about 730 meters (2,395 ft) of cumulative elevation change. Although some guides describe the trail as technically challenging, I wouldn't necessarily agree. In the final sections, you'll occasionally need to use fixed cables for support, but nothing is particularly difficult or exposed. The trail is popular with a wide range of hikers, including families with children. The main challenge is usually the terrain itself. You'll encounter slippery rocks and tree roots along the route, and after rainfall the trail can become muddy and extremely slick. For this reason, proper hiking footwear is essential.
GPS coordinates: N 46°31.23368', E 12°13.41005'
Best time for photography
Lago di Sorapis is at its most photogenic during the warmer months, when the lake is free of ice and snow and displays its famous turquoise color. In summer, the shoreline is often decorated with alpine wildflowers that can serve as beautiful foreground elements in your compositions. As for lighting conditions, my favorite time to photograph the lake is during the evening golden hour, and especially in the period just before sunset. At that time, the sun moves beside Punta Sorapis, illuminating parts of the valley and creating beautiful light across the landscape surrounding the lake.
Photography Gear
For the best results, bring a wide-angle lens with a focal length of around 14 mm (full-frame equivalent). The lake, surrounding mountains, and foreground elements combine beautifully in wide compositions.
Parking information
At Passo Tre Croci, you can park free of charge in the designated roadside parking areas. However, during the summer season these spots often fill up by late morning, especially on weekends and during holidays. Parking at the nearby hotels is generally reserved for guests staying at the properties, so you should not rely on those spaces unless you have accommodation booked there.
6.) Lago di Limides
Just above Passo di Falzarego lies another photogenic alpine lake of the Dolomites—at least, sometimes. Why only sometimes? Because whether Lago di Limides actually exists depends entirely on recent rainfall. On more than one occasion, I've arrived here only to find the lake completely dry. If you're lucky enough to visit when there's sufficient water, however, you'll be rewarded with one of the most beautiful reflections in the Dolomites. Lago di Limides offers a stunning view of the imposing Tofana di Rozes, one of the region's most recognizable peaks. Since the lake is located away from the main road, you're unlikely to encounter many tourists here. During sunrise or sunset, you'll usually find only a handful of photographers sharing the location.
How to get there
Although there is no road or parking area directly beside the lake, reaching it is relatively easy. From the parking area at Passo di Falzarego, follow the hiking trail heading southeast. The route covers approximately 1.3 km (0.8 miles) with around 85 meters (280 ft) of elevation gain. Even at a relaxed pace, the walk is suitable for virtually anyone.
GPS coordinates: N 46°30.70128', E 12°1.37950'
Best time for photography
Lago di Limides can produce excellent photographs throughout multiple seasons. During summer, the area surrounding the lake is often filled with blooming rhododendrons, which create beautiful foreground interest when combined with the reflective water and the towering face of Tofana di Rozes in the background. Autumn is equally attractive. The slopes around the lake become dotted with golden-orange European larch trees, a characteristic feature of the Dolomites that adds warmth and color to landscape compositions. Regardless of the season, the first thing to check before planning a visit is whether the lake actually contains water. After prolonged dry periods, it may disappear almost entirely.
Photography tips
Bring a wide-angle lens with a focal length of at least 16 mm (full-frame equivalent) to capture both the lake and the surrounding mountain scenery in a single composition.
Parking information
Parking at Passo di Falzarego is currently free of charge. The easiest option is to use the large parking area located directly behind the main building that houses a café and souvenir shop. From there, the hike to Lago di Limides begins just a short distance away.
7.) Passo Gardena
Passo Gardena is one of our favorite mountain passes in the Dolomites. Its most distinctive feature is the photogenic peak of Sass da Lüesa, which rises dramatically above the southeastern side of the pass. Situated at an elevation of 2,121 meters (6,959 ft), Passo Gardena lies between the villages of Colfosco and Selva di Val Gardena, serving as a gateway to the western Dolomites. A winding mountain road approaches the pass from both sides, making it a popular destination for motorists and cyclists alike.
How to get there
Passo Gardena is a busy location throughout the year. During the warmer months, it attracts hikers, photographers, and sightseers, while winter brings skiers and snow enthusiasts to the area. Several hiking trails begin directly from the pass and lead toward the surrounding peaks. However, some of the most photogenic viewpoints can be found just a few meters south of the main parking area, near a small pond located below the road. This makes Passo Gardena an excellent photography destination even for visitors who prefer not to undertake a mountain hike. Above the parking area, you'll also find several benches where you can relax after a photography session and enjoy the spectacular alpine scenery.
GPS coordinates: N 46°32.92480', E 11°48.46162'
Best time for photography
Passo Gardena is particularly photogenic during the summer months, when the meadows surrounding the small pond below the road are covered with colorful alpine wildflowers. These flowers create beautiful foregrounds, especially when combined with the imposing silhouette of Sass da Lüesa in the background. Because the mountain faces south, it can be photographed successfully during both sunrise and sunset, with warm golden-hour light enhancing the textures and colors of the landscape. While summer offers the most vibrant foregrounds, the pass remains attractive throughout the year thanks to its dramatic mountain scenery and easy accessibility.
Photography tips
For photography, I recommend bringing a wide-angle lens with a focal length of at least 16 mm (full-frame equivalent). This will allow you to capture both the pond and the surrounding mountain landscape in a single frame.
Parking information
There are several parking options available at Passo Gardena. The newly constructed parking areas are paid parking zones, as is common throughout many parts of the Dolomites. If you arrive before sunrise, however, you may still be able to secure a spot in the small free parking area located next to Rifugio Frara. Keep in mind that this lot has space for only about five vehicles, so it should not be relied upon later in the day, especially during the busy summer season.
8.) Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Alm)
Another of the most famous mountain locations in the Dolomites is the Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Alm) area. Together with the iconic rock towers of Tre Cime di Lavaredo, it is one of the most visited destinations in the entire Dolomites—and for good reason. The vast rolling meadows, traditional wooden huts, and the dramatic backdrop of the Sassolungo massif create an atmosphere that feels distinctly Tyrolean throughout the year.
How to get there
Some of the most photogenic spots are located right next to the road. However, you can only reach them by car if you have a reservation confirmation from a hotel located within the Seiser Alm area. Otherwise, you must park in the village of Compatsch. A winding road leads up to the plateau, but it is closed to the public between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM. For photographers, this is not a problem, as most visits to Alpe di Siusi take place before sunrise anyway. In Compatsch, you will find several large paid parking areas. From there, a longer walk awaits along an asphalt road. In total, you will cover approximately 4 km (2.5 miles) one way with around 100 meters (330 ft) of elevation gain. At a relaxed pace, the walk takes about 50 minutes.
GPS coordinates: N 46°33.15312', E 11°39.38177'
Best time for photography
Alpe di Siusi is photogenic throughout the entire year. However, my personal favorite season is autumn, when low fog often settles across the meadows beneath the peaks, creating a moody and atmospheric landscape. During the evening golden hour, the surrounding mountains are beautifully illuminated. However, sunrise is even more impressive here. The sun rises behind the rocky massif, and if clouds are present above the peaks, they often turn deep red as they catch the first light of day. Roughly 45 minutes after sunrise, the sun moves toward the left edge of the cliffs and appears to “travel” across them. This is the moment when the light reaches the foreground meadows, adding depth and dimension to the entire scene.
Photography tips
For this location, a standard zoom lens in the range of 24–70 mm is ideal. It allows you to capture both wide landscape scenes and more composed mid-range frames. A telephoto lens is also highly recommended for isolating mountain details and compressing layers of the landscape.
Parking information
You can park in one of the large paid parking areas in the village of Compatsch. However, if you arrive before sunrise, you may still find free parking near the information center, located just behind the main parking lots. Parking there is currently free of charge, but spaces are limited.
9.) Seceda
Seceda is another well-known location in the Dolomites that is definitely worth a visit. Its summit sits at an elevation of 2,519 meters (8,264 ft) and offers a dramatic view of sharp, distinctive peaks combined with rolling meadows and steep cliff edges in the foreground.
It is a popular destination for both photographers and tourists. During the winter season, Seceda’s slopes are filled with skiers, as a cable car from the town of Ortisei provides direct access to the summit.
How to get there
There are several ways to reach the top. Visitors with good fitness levels can hike up on foot. The route is not technically difficult at all—it mainly follows an asphalt road, occasionally intersected by steeper hiking sections. The total ascent covers approximately 7.8 km (4.8 miles) with nearly 1,300 meters (4,265 ft) of elevation gain, which is quite demanding, especially when carrying photography gear. If you prefer a less strenuous option, you can take the cable car from Ortisei. During the summer season (late May to late October), it operates from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM. Tickets can be purchased directly at the cable car station in Ortisei. A return ticket costs around €50.
GPS coordinates: N 46°36.07532', E 11°43.52737'
Best time for photography
My favorite time to visit Seceda is during summer, when the summit is covered with alpine wildflowers that can be used as foreground elements in compositions. During sunset and the evening golden hour, the sharp peaks in the background are beautifully illuminated. However, sunrise is even more impressive. Depending on the time of year, the sun rises directly behind the peaks or just beside them, creating stunning backlit conditions.
Photography tips
Bring a wide-angle lens with a focal length of at least 16 mm (full-frame equivalent) to capture the full scale of the landscape.
Parking information
You can park in the paid parking lot directly at the cable car station in Ortisei.
However, during both summer and winter seasons, this parking area is often full. It’s recommended to have a backup plan in advance. Fortunately, Ortisei offers several additional parking areas within the town.
10.) Santa Maddalena (St. Magdalena in Villnöß)
Santa Maddalena (St. Magdalena in Villnöß) is a small alpine village located at the upper end of the Val di Funes (Villnößtal) valley in South Tyrol, at an elevation of around 1,300 meters (4,265 ft). It lies close to the Zannes area, which I described in the previous sections. The village is part of the German-speaking region of South Tyrol and is famous for its iconic panoramic view of the sharp peaks of the Odle (Geislergruppe) massif, which is part of the UNESCO-listed Dolomites. It is one of the most visited locations in the entire region.
How to get there
Most photographers come here for the small church of St. John, which stands alone on a green hillside above the southern part of the village, framed by a dramatic mountain backdrop. The surrounding landscape consists of vast alpine meadows, scattered farms, and traditional wooden barns that have preserved their original character.
Santa Maddalena also serves as a starting point for several hiking and photography routes leading toward the Odle mountain group, with multiple viewpoints offering different compositions of this famous scene. Although the village lies in a valley, it is built on fairly hilly terrain. The best views of the Odle massif are not found directly next to the church, but from the higher parts of the village. From lower viewpoints, the peaks are often partially hidden by dense forest located behind the settlement.
GPS coordinates: N 46°38.20535', E 11°43.31595'
Best time for photography
If you're planning to photograph the classic composition of the church with the mountains in the background, the season does not play a major role. However, the best time for photography is during the evening golden hour and sunset, when warm light illuminates the Odle massif, giving the mountains a strong sense of depth and dimension.
Photography tips
For the classic composition featuring the church and mountains in the background, a standard zoom lens in the range of approximately 28–70 mm (full-frame equivalent) is ideal.
Parking information
There are several paid parking areas in the village, but they tend to fill up quickly during the main summer season. It is therefore recommended to allow extra time to find a suitable parking spot before your photo session begins.
Conclusion: Best Photo Spots in Dolomites
Of course, there are many more incredible photography locations in the Dolomites. In this guide, we have shared 10 of our favorite Dolomites photo spots — from dramatic mountain peaks and alpine lakes to famous viewpoints, hidden compositions and some of the best sunrise and sunset locations in the region.
If you feel inspired to photograph these places with personal guidance, flexible planning and support directly in the field, you can join our Dolomites Photo Tour. During this photography workshop, we visit some of the most beautiful locations in the Dolomites and also take you to quieter viewpoints and lesser-known spots that most tourists never get to see.
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