Leave the city behind for a day and discover nature’s winter magic in the Alps. Wander around frozen lake shores, breathe crisp mountain air, and see dramatic snow-topped peaks.
Enjoy a delicious alpine lunch in a cozy mountain hut with local specialties. Capture scenic photos, feel peace, and escape the crowds. Perfect for travelers who want both calm and wow moments in the snow.
If you have any questions about this tour, please get in touch. (And if you’d like to visit other amazing Italian cities, please be sure to check out our full selection of Day Tours in Italy and Multi-Day Italian Tours.)
You depart from Venice early in a comfortable minivan with an English-speaking driver/guide, heading north toward the Dolomites. Along the way, you’ll pass through picturesque valleys and small mountain villages, getting a taste of the changing landscape as you rise in altitude.
Your first stop is at Lake Misurina, a jewel surrounded by jagged peaks. You’ll stroll along its shores, perhaps see ice or snow around the edges, take in the reflections of mountains in the still water, and enjoy the calm of winter scenery. The guide shares local legends and the natural history of the area.
Then you continue to another alpine lake, for example Lake Auronzo or Lake Santa Caterina (if accessible in winter) — where you further soak in alpine views, enjoy photo stops, explore woodlands, or viewpoint overlooks. At one of these lakes or nearby, you stop for a hearty mountain lunch in a rifugio or mountain hut: warming soups, local cheeses, polenta, maybe a slice of strudel, hot drinks. ( Not included, optional )
After lunch, there will be more lakeside time or perhaps a walk in the snow or through a fir forest, depending on weather and accessibility. On the way back to Venice, the route winds through scenic passes or valleys, with photo stops of panoramic views, possibly through Cortina d’Ampezzo, depending on the roads. You return to Venice in the evening, refreshed and full of mountain air.
Looking for a longer tour experience during your travels in Italy? Explore our Multi-Day Italy Tours and Experiences.
