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Is Lake Como worth giving up a few days in the Dolomites

Planning a trip to the Dolomites in September of 2024 and need advice about giving up a few days in a week to visit Lake Como. We will be renting a car to visit the area around Ortesei and not sure how many days are enough in this area. Definately want to drive the Dolomite Rd and visit Alpe di Siusi and some hikes. Is it worth the trip by car to visit Lake Como also?
Thank you in advance!

Posted by
2300 posts

Where are you coming from before the Dolomites? Are you avid hikers? For me, 7 days in the Dolomites would be too long. But I’m more of a “take a gondola up, wander to a hut, eat, take a gondola down” kind of “hiker”.

Keep in mind that 3 nights in one area gives you two full days to explore. If I was going to split 7 nights between these two areas, I would do 4 nights in the Dolomites and 3 in Lake Como.

Posted by
534 posts

Having been to Lake Como, all I can say is it is definitely not to be missed. You won't regret going.

Posted by
6777 posts

Lake Como is worth it...but from the Dolomites, you're closer to Lake Garda, and Lake Garda is beautiful as well. You could spend 2 nights in, say, Malcesine, and save a fair amount of travel time vs Lake Como.

This being said, if your travels make you go through Milan airport, you might as well go to Lake Como. And you could drive from Lake Como to the Dolomites via Stelvio Pass for a thrilling experience.

Posted by
286 posts

Another vote for Lake Garda! I like it much more than lake comp, beautiful landscapes, beautiful towns

Posted by
70 posts

Agree that Lake Garda is amazing and will be much more convenient to visit than Como. But also suggest getting your lake fix in the Dolomites. So many beautiful mountain lakes to see that are easy to reach such as Lago di Braies, Lago di Carezza, Toblachersee, etc. Another gorgeous lake in the wine region of South Tyrol is Lago di Caldaro. It is surrounded by rolling vineyards and is the warmest lake in the Alps so you can really enjoy your time on or in the water! Have a wonderful trip!