How to Get to Tre Cime if Driving Isn’t an Option (2025 Updates)
Why Tre Cime is a Must-Visit
Tre Cime di Lavaredo, or the Three Peaks of Lavaredo, is one of the most iconic and breathtaking destinations in the Dolomites. These towering limestone peaks attract thousands of hikers, climbers, and photographers each year. Located on the border between South Tyrol and Veneto in northeastern Italy, Tre Cime is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers one of the most scenic alpine loops in the world.
To see Tre Cime or the stunning Cadini di Misurina viewpoint, you must first reach Rifugio Auronzo. This mountain hut is the starting point for both hikes and the gateway to the panoramic trails that make this area famous. Whether you're planning the classic loop around Tre Cime or heading out for that dramatic Instagram shot of Cadini, your journey begins here.
There is a large car park at Rifugio Auronzo that can accommodate up to 700 vehicles, but due to high demand in peak season, especially with the new reservation system for the toll road and car park, securing a spot in advance is essential.
Tre Cime in June
🚨 New for 2025: Online Reservation Required for Toll Road Access
To protect the environment and improve visitor flow, starting in late May 2025, all visitors planning to drive up to Rifugio Auronzo will need to reserve a parking spot and pay the toll fee online in advance.
What you need to know:
Reservations open 30 days in advance and must include your email address, visit date, phone number, and vehicle license plate number.
Each ticket is valid for 12 hours from the time of entry. (You can purchase 2 back to back tickets to make it 24 hours)
Access to the toll road is permitted only with a confirmed booking.
Space is limited – we strongly recommend booking early to avoid disappointment.
For those traveling with a rental car, you can update your license plate up to the day before your visit to ensure authorization.
Toll fees vary by vehicle type:
Cars: €40
Caravans: €60
Reservations can be made through this link - parking at Tre Cime di Lavaredo.
TIP: As the system is newly launched, you may encounter occasional glitches. If you're booking from abroad, set your device location to Milan, Italy to ensure the correct time slots are displayed.
Why You Might Not Be Able to Drive Up to Rifugio Auronzo
1. Out of Season Closures
The toll road to Rifugio Auronzo is only open from late May to late October, depending on snow and weather conditions.
While late May is the usual opening period, in 2021 the toll road didn’t open until June 30 due to lingering snow - highlighting how unpredictable spring conditions can be.
It’s not uncommon for the road to remain closed into mid or even late June, especially after heavy snowfall during the winter.
Where to Check Toll Road Status - To get up-to-date information on whether the toll road is open, visit:
🔗 south-tirol.com – Auronzo Hut Toll Road InfoThis official source provides the most accurate updates on road conditions, seasonal opening dates, and current access restrictions.
2025 updates: Toll road will open from 25th May, 2025.
2. No Parking Slot Available
With the 2025 reservation system, there’s a real possibility that all slots may be booked out, especially during peak travel weeks. If you're unable to secure a spot, you’ll need to consider alternate options.
Alternate Ways to Reach Tre Cime Without Driving
🚌 Option 1: Take the Bus
From Cortina d’Ampezzo (Option 1: Shuttle)
Step 1: Take Bus 445 from Cortina d'Ampezzo, Olympiastadion to Dürrensee. Service usually begins around 8:30 AM and runs every 2 hours.
Step 2: From Dürrensee, hop on Bus 444 to Rifugio Auronzo. This shuttle departs every 30 minutes during high season. Online reservation is required.
Cost: €22 roundtrip (More details below)
Important: The last shuttle returns around 6:25 PM, so staying for sunset isn’t feasible unless you plan to hike or arrange alternative transport.
From Cortina d’Ampezzo (Option 2: DolomitiBus)
Step 1: Take Dolomiti Bus Line 51 from Cortina d'Ampezzo to Misurina Genzianella. Service usually begins around 7:55 AM and runs every 2 hours.
Step 2: From Misurina Genzianella, hop on Dolomiti Bus Line 50 to Tre Cime rif. Auronzo. This bus departs every 30 minutes during high season.
Cost: Around €4.
Important: The last shuttle returns around 6:00 PM, so staying for sunset isn’t feasible unless you plan to hike or arrange alternative transport.
✅ You can tap and go using a contactless credit or debit card.
From Dobbiaco
From 31st May to 12th October 2025, take the Tre Cime Shuttle 444 by SüdtirolMobil.
Departs from Dobbiaco train station and ends at Rifugio Auronzo.
The bus departs every 30 minutes during operating hours.
📄 Timetable: View the 2025 schedule (PDF)
Cost: €22 roundtrip.
Last return trip from Rifugio Auronzo is at 18:23, so plan your hike accordingly.
Advance reservation is mandatory via the 3-ZINNEN website. (Return journey must also be purchased in advance.) Tickets can be purchased from 27th May, 2025.
This direct route is ideal if you're arriving by train or bus and want a hassle-free experience without driving or parking stress.
🥾 Option 2: Hike Up to Rifugio Auronzo
If you're up for a bit of a workout and want to skip the shuttles, there are a couple of scenic hiking routes to reach Rifugio Auronzo:
Trail 101 (from Lago Antorno)
Distance: ~4 km one way
Duration: ~1.5 to 2 hours
Details: Free parking available (now 2 euros per hour) at Lago Antorno, but it fills up fast. Arrive before 10 AM during high season.
AllTrails map: Lake Antorno - Auronzo Refuge
Trail 108A (from Malga Rin Bianco)
Distance: ~4 km
Duration: Under 2 hours
Note: Less crowded than the main trail but equally beautiful.
AllTrails map: Malga Rin bianco to Rifugio Auronzo via Forcella Col di Mezzo
💡 Hiking Tips:
These trails can be snow-covered in shoulder seasons (before mid-June or after September).
Bring crampons or spikes, especially if hiking early or late in the season.
Weather in the Dolomites changes quickly - check forecasts and dress accordingly.
Use code VIVCHOW30 to get 30% off AllTrails plus, the premium version of AllTrails that lets you download maps and navigate trails offline - perfect for exploring without cell service.
❄️ Option 3: Snowmobile (Winter Months)
While Tre Cime becomes a snow-covered wonderland in the winter, road access is closed to cars. The only ways up are:
On foot (with snowshoes or touring skis)
By snowmobile — local rental and guided tour options are available from Misurina or nearby towns during winter months. Always check in advance for availability and conditions.
🚴♀️ Option 4: Bike Up
If you're fit and looking for a challenge, cycling up the toll road to Rifugio Auronzo is a rewarding experience. The climb is steep and long, so this is best attempted in summer and with a proper road or e-bike.
Final check list before visitng
Tre Cime di Lavaredo remains a bucket-list destination, and with new 2025 regulations, advanced planning is more important than ever. Whether you’re hiking, busing, or biking, there are still plenty of ways to reach this stunning landmark without driving. Just be sure to:
✅ Check official updates on toll road access
✅ Book shuttle buses early
✅ Prepare for changing weather
✅ Consider visiting early or late in the day to avoid crowds
By planning ahead and choosing the right travel method, you'll enjoy a stress-free visit to one of the most spectacular spots in the Alps.
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