Cortina d’Ampezzo is synonymous with luxury, with winter sports, and apres in your Gucci. This corner of the Italian Alps is lovingly referred to as the Queen of the Dolomites and it wouldn’t go amiss to wear your crown around this ski town.
Surrounded by dramatic mountains in red and grey stone, dotted with absolute gems of alpine lakes, Cortina is a picture perfect destination. Unlike most towns in the Dolomites, it is animated, with vibey cafes, CHIC people and phenomenal restaurants. It’s not all glitz and glamour though, there are some phenomenal hikes through the aforementioned mountains with plenty of posies to post up for a picnic.
So yeah, it’s expensive and not an obvious backpacker destination. But don’t dismiss it too quickly, there are a few places to stay nearby that are more budget-friendly which I’ll get to later on. This is exactly why I’ve written this fabulous guide to where to stay in Cortina d’Ampezzo.
From the one hostel in the Dolomites, to Cortina d’Ampezzo resorts, to the best hotels in Cortina d’Ampezzo, I’ve got a veritable smorgasbord. This is typically a winter destination, with 140 ski runs and over 50 miles of cross-country pistes to explore but don’t write it off for a summer destination, either.
Andiamo, amigos!
Photo: Nic Hilditch-Short
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
- Where is the Best Place to Stay in Cortina d’Ampezzo?
- Cortina d’Ampezzo Neighbourhood Guide – Best Places to Stay in Cortina d’Ampezzo
- Other Areas To Stay Near Cortina d’Ampezzo
- FAQs About Where to Stay inCortina d’Ampazzo
- What To Pack For Cortina d’Ampezzo
- Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Cortina d’Ampezzo
- Final Thoughts on Staying in or Near Cortina d’Ampezzo
Italy is phenomenal, with its iconic food, exceptional scenes, and long-standing old-money designer flair. Backpacking in Italy is popular, and while there are definitely some budget-friendly places to stay, there are some that are a loooong way away from a backpacker budget. I reckon your best bet when wanting to see the scenes of Cortina d’Ampezzo is to focus on the best accommodation you can afford.
I say this because public transport in the area is fabulous. There are local buses, long-distance buses, and even free ski buses in the winter! In the summer, you can ride a bus as well, or you can slow it down a little bit and rent a bike and even take your bike on the bus.
I’ve written a legit review on Discover Cars, which is simply like Skyscanner but for cars. It allows you to compare different makes and models, different rental policies, different pick up points, whatever you want.
SO, I’m going to run you through the best neighbourhoods in Cortina d’Ampezzo first and foremost. From there, I’ll give you a few more neighbourhoods to stay in if you want to stay out of the city and drive in to visit.
Looking for a quick-fix booking for your trip to Cortina d’Ampezzo? These are my top three recommendations for your Cordina Italy trip:
Hotel de Len | Best Hotel
Fabulous Breakfast, Si! Fabulous Views, Si! Onsite Spa, Si!
This luxurious four-star hotel is set on the edge of the Boite River, which is edged in jaw-dropping pine forests and floats serenely on by. This is the kind of place you want to park up for a while if you’ve got the budget for it. Maybe make the most of the free wifi and write it off as a business expense?
Mueso Ostello | Best Hostel
Ok, so this is the best hostel you can find in the Dolomites. It’s family-run, cosy, in a really quiet area, with fantastic hikes nearby. You can explore via bicycle, get adventurous and do some climbing. This is where you’d stay if you’re a true backpacker. Told you it would be worth the wait.
Via Ferrata Pisciadù is a bit out of the way, but worth a visit if you’re interested in history. It’s called the Iron Road and is a crazy kind of frozen museum left behind from World War I
Cosy attic in Cortina d’Ampezzo | Best Airbnb
Now this is one for the new families, or small families, but I couldn’t leave it off the list with views like that. It’s the perfect place to stay if you’re here for skiing, just 500m from the slopes, you could walk there! Sometimes the shuttle service can get backed up even if you’re staying at the most boujee five-star hotels in Cortina d’Ampezzo. Staying within walking distance is definitely a hack.
Town Centre
The town centre is an obvious choice for where to stay for your first time in Cortina d’Ampezzo. This is where your Dolomite dreams come true, from boujee old ladies dripping in swag to the young hot jet set.
North Cortina
North Cortina, Italy, is the perfect spot to stay with your family. The wide open spaces are plentiful, and lots of the accommodation is within walking distance of the town centre.
Cianderies
This humble little suburb, out to the east of the town centre, is where you will find slightly cheaper accommodation.
South Cortina
Just a couple of km south of the town centre is a quiet suburban zone with more of a countryside vibe. Most of these places to stay have a pretty family-friendly vibe too, rather than the glamorous nightlife scene of the town centre.
The mountain town of Cortina d’Ampezzo is nestled in the Veneto region of northern Italy. And although it isn’t a sprawling, expansive, bustling city, there are a couple of different areas to stay. There are five-star hotels, there are resorts, there are no hostels in Cortina d’Ampezzo, but fear not, fellow backpackers, I’ve got you.
Are you looking to be in the thick of the action? Where you can shop till you drop and then revive yourself with an aperitif. Or maybe you’re looking for ski-in ski-out accommodation? Each area in Cortina d’Ampezzo offers something slightly different.
Like I said, not a sprawling city, but there are still a few nuances that differentiate each neighbourhood. If you’re coming to Cortina d’Ampezzo with your family, you’re going to want to stay a bit out of the hustle. Enjoy the big nature of North Cortina.
For my party people, you’re obviously going to want to stay in the Town Centre. This is also my pick for where to stay for your first time in Cortina d’Ampezzo, as you’re in the thick of it here.
South Cortina is where I think you’ll want to stay during summer, as the nature is a bit flatter, with wider open spaces to enjoy. This is the furthest from the slopes, and if you’re renting bikes, you can easily cycle into the town centre.
If you’re a true broke backpacker, Cianderies is where you’re most likely to find a deal IN Cortina d’Ampezzo. Remember, I’ve got a few more surprise contestants down below, so read on and don’t write off your trip to Cortina d’Ampezzo too soon.
Regardless, there is the perfect neighbourhood in Cortina d’Ampezzo for you. Here are the best neighbourhoods in Cortina d’Ampezzo.
1. Town Centre – Where to Stay in Cortina d’Ampezzo for Your First Time
The town centre is an obvious choice for where to stay for your first time in Cortina d’Ampezzo. This is where your Dolomite dreams come true, from boujee old ladies dripping in swag to the young hot jet set. Everyone’s making the most of the sunshine, drinking Aperol before settling into their private hot tubs at their Cortina d’Ampezzo resorts.
There are a plethora of luxury shops where you can shop till you drop if you’ve got the cash to splash. Blend in the sublime restaurants and eateries that Cortina d’Ampezzo has to offer, and you’re really going to feel like you’re on holiday. Italy as a whole is a country of indulgence, and this high-altitude town is no different.
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
The Cortina d’Ampezzo hotels and accommodations I’ve got for you here are all pretty chic, being in the town centre. They are also all in phenomenal, central locations, so you can take a digestive after dinner walk (passeggiata if you want to sound like a local!).
Hotel Aquila | Best Hotel in the Town Centre
Hotel Aquila is a treat and a serious score in terms of value, easily one of the best places to stay in Cortina d’Ampezzo. From the free breakfast to the free parking to the variety of room options, there’s something for everyone here. The central location is obviously fabulous, and so are the staff, while I’m at it.
There’s a fabulous street-side bar here too, which is perfect for people watching.
Hotel de Len | Best Luxury Hotel in the Town Centre
Fabulous Breakfast, Si! Fabulous Views, Si! Onsite Spa, Si!
This luxurious four-star hotel is set on the edge of the Boite River, which is edged in jaw-dropping pine forests and floats serenely on by. This is the kind of place you want to park up for a while if you’ve got the budget for it. Maybe make the most of the free wifi and write it off as a business expense? 😉
Attic with a view of Tofane | Best Airbnb in the Town Centre
This chic attic is just a 10-minute walk from the centre of town, which is the perfect distance if you ask me. The view of Tofana (the mountain you can see) is stunning, and if you come by car, there’s a garage. The kitchen is well-equipped if you want to cook for yourself and save some cash that way.
Things To Do in the Town Centre
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
- Stroll along the Corso Italia and Piazza Angelo Dibona, vibey pedestrian-only streets with bars, boutiques, restaurants and accommodation.
- Have an Aperol and peruse the people – Nonnas clad head to toe in mink aren’t something you see every day anywhere else.
- Take a hike! Whether you get some local intel and take a guided hike, or venture out on your own. The wonderful hiking in the Ampezzo Valley is just a short drive away from the town centre, another great reason to stay in Cortina d’Ampezzo.
2. North Cortina – Where to Stay in Cortina d’Ampezzo with your Family
North Cortina, Italy, is the perfect spot to stay with your family. The wide open spaces are plentiful, and lots of the accommodation is within walking distance of the town centre. There’s a free ski shuttle service to the Freccia nel Cielo cable car (Tofana ski area) and the Faloria Cable Car, so they’re perfect if you’re here for the world-class ski resorts.
Nestled at the base of the Ampezzo Valley, North Cortina is also a great place to stay in Cortina d’Ampezzo in summer. The accessibility to Passo Tre Croci (Lake Sorapis trailhead), Lake Misurina and Lake Antorno (Cadini di Misurina trailhead).
Photo: Ralph Cope
Hotel Des Alpes | Best Hotel in North Cortina
One of the best hotels near Cortina d’Ampezzo, have you ever seen anything more picture perfect? This is where I’d be parking up if I were travelling with my family, there’s a spa for a bit of R&R, and there’s free breakfast, too. There are family rooms, so no matter what size your group is, there’s something at Hotel Des Alps to accommodate you.
This isn’t one of the five-star hotels in Cortina d’Ampezzo, but it is iconic and a stunning choice for where to stay in Cortina d’Ampezzo.
Three Bedroom Apartment | Best Apartment in North Cortina
Hire this entire apartment to stay in Cortina d’Ampazzo with your family. This is an ideal stay to keep the family occupied with things to do in Cortina d’Ampezzo in winter, with the private garden to play in. Parents will be stoked to hear that there’s a dishwasher in the fully equipped kitchen, so cleaning up is easy.
Or you could cruise down into the town centre and enjoy the wonderful restaurants that Cortina, Italy, has on offer.
Cosy attic in Cortina d’Ampezzo | Best Airbnb in North Cortina
Now this is one for the new families, or small families, but I couldn’t leave it off the list with views like that. It’s the perfect place to stay if you’re here for skiing, just 500m from the slopes, you could walk there! Sometimes the shuttle service can get backed up even if you’re staying at the most boujee five-star hotels in Cortina d’Ampezzo. Staying within walking distance is definitely a hack.
Things to do in North Cortina
Photo: @amandaadraper
- Take a trip into the heart of the World Heritage site of the Dolomites, from Passo Giau along path no 436 to the Mondeval plateau.
- Chill lakeside, Lake Misurina and Lake Antorno, AND Lake Sorapis are all nearby. You can take a minivan tour to see them with a local guide, too.
- Cinque Torri is also an open-air museum, where you can walk through a maze of restored trenches and shelters dating back to the First World War. Though there is a cableway that connects the valley (Bai de Dones) to Cinque Torri, this is the more interesting ascent route.
3. Cianderies – Where to Stay in Cortina d’Ampezzo on a Budget
This humble little suburb, out to the east of the town centre, is where you will find slightly cheaper accommodation. This is a luxury destination, so please do bear with me – I do have a hostel for you further down the line, I promise. But in the case of those dedicated to a stay in Cortina d’Ampezzo itself, this is where you’ll find boutique hotels and Airbnbs.
Most of these accommodations have free parking, great if Cortina is just a whistle stop in your greater Italian itinerary or road trip. Cianderies has cute residential streets you can wander around, and the rest of Cortina, Italy, is only a minute’s drive away.
Luxury Cortina | Best Apartment in Cianderies
Ok, OK, OK, luxury and budget aren’t synonymous. BUT, we’re working with what we’ve got here, and this accommodation has space for 10 guests, so if you’re rolling with a crew, the cost per night per person isn’t actually huuuuuge.
Now that we’ve cleared that up, let’s get into the fun stuff. This apartment (“apartment”) has a home gym, a sauna, that bathtub and stunning views. There is private parking and big rooms with lots of beds, so it’s giving sleepover vibes, big time.
Rustic Attic in Historic House | Another Great Apartment in Cianderies
This is probably the cheapest place to stay in Cortina d’Ampezzo. It’s a very cute attic spec, so don’t expect to be able to stand up, but it has everything you’d need. The views are sensational, Pio, the host is charming and lovely and helpful, and there’s even a dishwasher and a bathtub!
Apartment with Mountain View | Best Airbnb in Cianderies
This could be your balcony and where you enjoy your morning coffee during your stay in Cortina d’Ampezzo. There’s a little self-serve breakfast included (with coffee and prosecco!), and the bus stops almost right outside. The town centre is within walking distance, just one km away, and this sweet apartment has all the amenities you could want.
Things to do in Cianderies
Photo: Ellia Tootoonchian
- Stroll into town for some people watching and a coffee
- Take a hike, I know, I’ve said it before, but surely you’re here for the Dolomite hiking?!
- Rent a car, drive into the mountains and enjoy the scenery
A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!
GigSky eSIMs work just like an app: you download it, pick your plan, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.
Read about how eSIMs work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and ditch the plastic.
Grab an eSIM!4. South Cortina – Where to Stay in Cortina d’Ampezzo during Summer
Just a couple of km south of the town centre is a quiet suburban zone with more of a countryside vibe. Most of these places to stay have a pretty family-friendly vibe too, rather than the glamorous nightlife scene of the town centre. There are some great guesthouses and homestays here that are also a bit more budget-friendly, and it’s a great place to camp.
If you want to immerse yourself in nature, the trailheads are a few extra minutes’ drive if you stay here rather than North Cortina. That being said, you’re closer to the river here, and it’s a more serene vibe, as I said before, so I think you’ll love it if you’re visiting Cortina in the summer, and it’s one of the reasons the area became one of my favourites I visited in Italy.
Hotel Mirage | The Best Hotel in South Cortina
Hotel Mirage is a four-star hotel in South Cortina that has the most lush lawn for lounging on. They have a pool if you want to cool off after a long day on the trails, and breakfast is included. There’s a kids’ area too, as well as a wellness centre where you can sauna, indulge in a massage or soak in a hot tub.
Ciasa Nonna Bon Bon | The Best Homestay in South Cortina
This place is so classic, so simple, so sweet, and the hosts are so thoughtful and friendly. This is the best place to stay in Cortina d’Ampezzo if you want a taste of home. Feel like you’re staying with your grandparents with free parking, epic views, comfy beds and daily housekeeping. LUSH!
Penthouse Chalet in Cortina | Best Airbnb in South Cortina
I mean, look at that sun-drenched balcony! This is the dream spot to stay in Cortina d’Ampezzo during your summer vacation. The view of the mountains is sensational, 250m away is a convenience store, a bar and a pizzeria. There’s also a bus stop that can take you into town, so you don’t have to bother with parking.
Things to do in South Cortina
Photo: @mariajstorey
- Enjoy the serenity of your surroundings!
- Pack a picnic (or get a takeaway pizza!) and spend a day by the river if you’re visiting Cortina d’Ampezzo in Summer
- In winter, make sure the firewood is stacked for your return from a big day out skiing or Ice Climbing!
Other Areas To Stay Near Cortina d’Ampezzo
Staying in Cortina, Italy, is expensive… Here are some surrounding towns that have some hostels and Airbnbs if you can’t find anything in your budget in Cortina.
Where to Stay in Trento – 2.5 hours from Cortina d’Ampezzo
Agritur Casteller | Best Hotel in Trento
Staying on a vineyard in quintessentially Italian, how could you pass it up? This stay near Cortina d’Ampezzo offers a good breakfast, epic mountain views across the vineyards and has free parking. Epic if you’re cruising with your own car, maybe you’re living that digital nomad life and need free wifi? That’s sorted too.
There’s even a kitchen with all the amenities you could want if you’re looking to save a little more cash and live that humble lifestyle.
Ostello Giovane Europa di Trento | Best Hostel in Trento
Close to the train station, this budget hotel is in an epic central location and has spacious family rooms as well as dorm rooms. There’s a good breakfast included in the hostel price, which is an extra budget-friendly bonus. The rooms are clean, the staff are friendly, and you’re staying just a short train ride from Cortina d’Ampezzo.
Cosy Historic City Centre Studio | Best Airbnb in Trento
You can walk the historic streets and make yourself at home in this sweet studio in the centre of Trento. This is a great place to stay near Cortina d’Ampezzo without being in the thick of it, perfect to save some coin. Also saving coin, cooking at home – there’s a fully equipped kitchen here for you to use.
Where to stay in Bolzano – 2 hours from Cortina d’Ampezzo
Castel Hörtenberg | Best Hotel in Bolzano
Castel and castle – same, same really. Why stay anywhere else than this five-star hotel (if you’ve got the cash to splash, of course!). With a swimming pool, lush interiors, and friendly staff, you’ll want for nothing.
You can even bring along your furry friends, get a massage, enjoy free breakfasts, airport shuttles, free wifi, and kitchen facilities. That’s a long list, making this a very good value choice when compared with five-star hotels in Cortina d’Ampezzo.
Hotel La Briosa | Best Budget Hotel in Bolzano
This place is FUN! And brand new, it’s brilliantly designed, in the centre of town, and has all the amenities you need. There are kitchen facilities, an epic breakfast, sunny courtyards, and even a bar if you don’t feel like serving yourself.
Victoria Apartment | Best Airbnb in Bolzano
This Airbnb backs onto the beautiful Talvera Park, a nice choice to have some nature in the heart of Bolzano. Located in the heart of the city, you can really immerse yourself in the historic Italian culture by visiting the surrounding museums. The apartment is quiet and bright, with big windows overlooking the private garden which backs onto the river, and there is an internal courtyard, too.
Where to Stay in Belluno – 1.5 hours from Cortina d’Ampazzo
Mueso Ostello | The Best Hostel in Belluno
Ok, so this is the best hostel you can find in the Dolomites. It’s family-run, cosy, in a really quiet area, with fantastic hikes nearby. You can explore via bicycle, get adventurous and do some climbing. This is where you’d stay if you’re a true backpacker. Told you it would be worth the wait 😉
Via Ferrata Pisciadù is a bit out of the way, but worth a visit if you’re interested in history. It’s called the Iron Road and is a crazy kind of frozen museum left behind from World War I
FAQs About Where to Stay inCortina d’Ampazzo
You might want to know these things about staying in Cortina d’Ampezzo
What To Pack For Cortina d’Ampezzo
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Cortina d’Ampezzo
The chances are you’ll be heading up into the mountains on your visit, whether for a hike or a ski, so make sure you have good travel insurance!
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Staying in or Near Cortina d’Ampezzo
Mamma Mia! That’s a lot of info! I hope you feel fully prepared to face your holiday with zest.
The black run ski fields of Cortina are world famous, with historic ski events being held there and the Winter Olympics 2026, too. As I said, the people watching is off the charts, and I recommend staying at Hotel Aquila if you’ve got the cash to splash.
If you’re running a tighter budget (or just like a more humble experience), I’d recommend staying at Mueso Ostello. It’s just an hour and a half away from Cortina d’Ampazzo, so it’s an easy mish if you’ve hired a car or there’s public transport, too.
Wherever you stay, I think you’ll love the winter wonderland that is Cortina d’Ampazzo.
Have you been? Let’s chat about it in the comments! This palace is off the chain.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
- Check out our ultimate guide to backpacking around Italy.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Italy.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in Italy to plan your trip.
- Planning out an itinerary for Italy is a great way to maximise your time.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for Italy.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Europe backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
