We will be renting a car in Italy this summer and part of our trip will be staying 5 days in Ortisei. For 1 or 2 of those days we want to visit some of the small mountain villages and I'm wondering if it would be best to take the bus that runs regularly or our car to see them. Obviously, the car would offer more flexibility but is it difficult to find parking in the villages or not? In addition to the villages themselves, we really want to find a mountain valley to hike through (think Heidi). Is there parking at the trailheads?
Thanks!
Bob
Posted by
Huntsville, AL, USA
8383 posts
A car is the way to see the mountains in Europe--whether it be Austria, Bavaria or the Dolomites. You will not have difficulties parking in villages.
We just like to go from village to village--stopping along the way without any plans.
I am past due running the Alps and Dolomites--my favorite place anywhere.
Posted by
Bay Area, California
1713 posts
It really depends on when in summer you visit the Alps. July and August are super busy. I was in the Dolomites in Sept, 2021 (with Covid restrictions) and parking was difficult at certain sightseeing hot spots (e.g., Tre Cime). If you stay in Ortisei, then you may not need a car at all.
Posted by
San Francisco Bay Area (USA)
16575 posts
If you are already paying for a rental car why not use it? Finding parking is certainly not difficult in any of the villages.
Posted by
Forest Grove, OR
11957 posts
Parking at the trailheads is very dependent on the trail head. Many are accessible only by cableway from the valley. You lodging will give you a bus pass for the duration so don’t hesitate to park at the hotel and take the bus as needed. You’ll get good specific advice at the TI or from your hotel host.
Posted by
273 posts
If paying for a rental it would be nice to use it because it does provide some flexibility. On the other hand once you arrive all the bus costs is adherence to a schedule. Maybe, unless part of a longer trip, think about how much might be saved foregoing the car and using public transport all the way. Less aggravation too, no parking issues, letting someone else drive while you check scenery, getting to meet locals....