What to do in Cortina in spring and summer: top picks

Cortina d'Ampezzo transforms completely once the snow begins to melt. Nestled in the heart of the Dolomites, this iconic alpine town reveals a completely different — yet equally breathtaking — side of itself during the warmer months. The surrounding landscape shifts from a winter wonderland into a vivid tapestry of wildflowers, pine forests and dramatic rocky peaks. With over 400 km of trails winding through some of Italy's most spectacular scenery, plus cycling routes, climbing experiences and cultural gems hidden in plain sight, Cortina is a destination that rewards every type of visitor.

Hiking and outdoor adventures in the Dolomites

When it comes to things to do in Cortina in spring and summer, hiking is undoubtedly the experience that defines the destination. The Dolomites surrounding Cortina d'Ampezzo offer an extraordinary network of over 400 km of marked trails, making this area one of the most sought-after trekking destinations in the entire Alpine region.

Beginners and families will find plenty of gentle paths that wind through meadows bursting with alpine wildflowers, offering stunning views without requiring technical skills. More experienced hikers, on the other hand, can tackle demanding routes that lead to dramatic ridgelines and remote mountain refuges, where a well-earned plate of local food and a cold drink await. The iconic Tre Cime di Lavaredo loop is arguably the most photographed trail in the Dolomites, and for good reason,  the views are simply unlike anything else in Europe.

For those who crave a more vertical challenge, Cortina also offers excellent climbing walls and via ferratas — fixed-route mountain paths equipped with iron rungs, cables and ladders that allow adventurous visitors to scale cliff faces safely. These routes range from introductory levels suitable for teenagers to highly technical ascents that will test even experienced climbers. If you've never tried a via ferrata before, Cortina is one of the best places in Italy to take your first steps — with qualified local guides available to lead the way and ensure safety throughout the experience.

Cycling routes for every level of rider

Cortina's mountain landscape isn't only for those travelling on foot. The area has developed into a genuine paradise for cyclists, offering a compelling mix of road cycling and mountain biking routes that showcase the Dolomites from a completely different perspective. 

Road cyclists will find two standout itineraries that have become classics among enthusiasts. The Cortina–Dobbiaco route follows a scenic former railway line converted into a dedicated cycling path, making it accessible even for those who prefer a more relaxed ride without steep climbs. The Misurina tour, by contrast, demands more effort but rewards riders with one of the most spectacular lake views in the entire region — the turquoise surface of Lake Misurina reflecting the peaks above is a sight that stays with you long after the ride is over.

The network of off-road trails spans a wide range of difficulty levels, from flowing singletrack through pine forests to technical descents that will challenge even experienced riders. Families travelling with children will appreciate the gentler routes that loop through quieter valleys, allowing younger riders to build confidence while still enjoying the scenery. Bike rental shops and guided tours are readily available in town, so even visitors who haven't brought their own equipment can get out and explore without any difficulty.

Exploring Cortina's town centre and local culture

Not every memorable experience in Cortina happens on a mountain trail. The town centre itself is a genuinely charming place to spend a few hours, blending the relaxed atmosphere of an alpine village with a level of sophistication that sets it apart from most other mountain destinations. Corso Italia, the main pedestrian street, is the beating heart of Cortina's social life and a wonderful place to simply slow down and take it all in. Once you've browsed the shop windows and tracked down the perfect souvenir, there's a well-established local ritual worth embracing: settling into one of the many cafes or bars along the corso for a coffee, an aperitivo or a slice of something sweet. 

Art, history and hidden cultural gems in Cortina

Cortina has long attracted artists, writers and intellectuals drawn by the extraordinary light and landscape of the Dolomites. This creative legacy has left a tangible cultural imprint on the town, and visitors with an eye for art will find more to explore here than they might initially expect. The most significant stop is the Mario Rimoldi Museum of Modern Art, housed within the historic Ciasa de ra Regoles on Corso Italia — just a short walk from the main bus station.

The Rimoldi collection brings together works by some of the most important Italian artists of the twentieth century, including De Pisis, Morandi, Semeghini, Campigli and Sironi. These are not minor or peripheral figures — they represent a significant chapter in the history of Italian modernism. The museum itself is worth visiting for the building alone, which reflects the traditional Ladin architectural style of the Ampezzo valley.

Beyond the museum, Cortina's cultural identity is deeply rooted in the Ladin language and traditions of the local community — a Romance language spoken by a small but proud population across several valleys in the eastern Dolomites. Keeping an ear out for it in conversation, or picking up a small book about local history from one of the town's bookshops, adds a layer of depth to any visit that goes well beyond the typical tourist experience.

Making the most of Cortina beyond the ski season

Cortina d'Ampezzo in spring and summer is a destination that consistently surprises first-time visitors. The combination of world-class hiking, diverse cycling routes, a vibrant town centre and an unexpectedly rich cultural scene makes it far more than just a winter resort waiting for the snow to return. Whether you're planning a day trip or a longer stay, the things to do in Cortina in spring and summer are varied enough to satisfy every kind of traveller — from the adventure-hungry to the culturally curious.