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Get ready for an epic family adventure! If you're thinking of traveling to the Dolomites with kids, you have to read this!

Imagine a place where the mountains tell stories, the landscapes seem straight out of a fairy tale, and every corner is a setting for a family adventure . Yes, we're talking about the Dolomites!

Whether it's summer or winter , this place is a paradise for adventurous families. And we've experienced it firsthand!

About us

About what we are going to explain to you here

We are going to tell you everything about our super last route, with golden tips for traveling with children and a list of activities that are a real "must".

Our last 10-day Dolomites campervan trip with the kids was last Christmas, and it was crazy (in a good way!). We explored many valleys and places in the Dolomites, such as Val di Zoldo , one of our favorite spots in the Dolomites, and the Marmolada and Rocca Piettore, where we saw the Dolomites almost from the sky.

Imagine touring the Dolomites in winter, with our 8 and 11 year old children, it was an experience that we will not even dream of forgetting and we are already planning the next one!

 Did you know? We had already gone to the Dolomites in summer, and if that time it was incredible, this time in winter and Christmas it has been amazing!

2 experiences in the Dolomites that will undoubtedly soon lead to a third!

So, hands on the wheel and smiles ready! We are going to embark on a family adventure through the Dolomites with children that you are going to love. Ready? Let's start!

Route through the Dolomites with children: our last experience

This past Christmas we were lucky enough to fulfill a dream: traveling back to the Dolomites. This time, we spent 10 days exploring the Dolomites during one of our favorite and most cherished times of the year. Ten days as a family in the Dolomites at Christmas , visiting its magical Christmas markets and enjoying the idyllic scenery at that time of year.

Our journey began with almost 14 hours of driving in our motorhome, right after Christmas Day dessert with the family.

After those hours of driving on mostly French and Italian highways we arrived 24 hours later in Bolzano, the door that would show us the Dolomites at Christmas.

We didn't have a blog yet during our first summer Dolomites experience, but if you're interested in seeing a summer Dolomites route, you can check out the one our friend Miss Ana shared on our blog here.

10-day route through the Dolomites with children: Summary of our last trip to the Dolomites with children

So, we started our route in Bolzano, and this is the 10-day route through the Dolomites with children that we did and that we suggest if you go, whether in summer or winter:

Day 1: Bolzano, where we recommend this guided tour

2: Val di Funnes- Vipiteno- Bressanone

3: Val di Gardena- Ortisei- Selva di Val Gardena

4: Marmolada – Sottoguda

5: Val di Zoldo, Pecol

6: Val di Zoldo, Palafavera- Alleghe

7: Val di Zoldo, Forno di Zoldo

8: Val di Fassa- Canazei

9: Val di Fassa – Pozza di Fassa

Day 10: Moena

Accommodations during our route

During our last trip to the Dolomites, we mainly opted to stay at campsites , 90% of which , interestingly, remain open in winter. These are especially suitable for families with children due to the services they offer , designed for little ones, such as children's restrooms, playrooms, and in some cases, indoor swimming pools with slides.

I'd like to recommend some campsites that, in addition to offering pitches for motorhomes, caravans, or campervans, also have bungalows or apartments. Based on our experience, these are the ones we liked best:

Camping Vidor in Val di Fassa

This campsite is undoubtedly the best for children in the Dolomites, thanks to its play areas , mini-club, and swimming pools with slides . However, the ski slopes in winter are best suited for more experienced skiers.

Camping Civetta in Val di Zoldo

The second campsite in our top Dolomite campsites list is its children's playrooms, child-friendly bathrooms, and nearby activities such as skiing, as it is located at the foot of the cable car and slopes, which are blue slopes for all levels of skiing in winter.

Apart from these campsites, I recommend staying in apartments offered by farms or shelters with kitchens within the valleys, great options with children that also solve some of the meal needs.

Here are some options you might like for accommodation with children in the Dolomites, such as apartments and farms :

List of apartments and rural tourism in Dolomites to go with children

Our map for traveling to the Dolomites with children

Our choice of places to visit on our route was the result of planning work to maximize our time in the place, starting from the preparation of this map that we made with those places of interest in the Dolomites with children that we might like to visit.

I leave you the map, so that you can also choose other places and have a broad vision of everything that Dodlomites offers in general.

12 tips for traveling to the Dolomites with children in summer or winter

In the suitcase: Take raincoats, Goretex hiking boots and waterproof pants and forget about umbrellas!

The climate of the Dolomites is rain – sun – rain – sun and so on all day changing and unpredictable.

Based on our experience, I recommend bringing raincoats that fold up into a small package and can be put in your backpack or fastened around your waist. It's definitely the most practical option.

And if you go in winter, wear snow gear and thermal clothing underneath with a fleece in between.

Our Gore-Tex hiking boots were also the stars of our first summer trip, and we didn't need our spare shoes thanks to them. And in winter, they were perfect for our snow breaks .

Finally, the waterproof pants, which Decathlon sells at a very good price, were also very good for us in summer, especially for days of heavy rain, although the latter, due to the use we gave it, you can do without.

What I don't recommend bringing are umbrellas; the wind when it rains makes them useless in the Dolomites, and they also severely limit your mobility with children.

Identity documents with children in Dolomites

Both adults and children must carry a valid ID card to travel around Italy , so check that it has not expired before leaving.

European health card and travel insurance

For healthcare, you can use your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) and you'll be treated in the emergency room of any hospital. However, there are a few important things to know. Public healthcare in Italy may involve co-payments for Spanish citizens. Therefore, if you need to use your EHIC, we know from friends that you'll likely have to make a significant co-payment, depending on the reason for your visit. Furthermore, the Spanish healthcare system won't fully reimburse you upon your return, and any reimbursement you do receive will take up to two years, as we know from experience.

To avoid any unpleasant surprises, we took out travel insurance with Iati for the children, the Iati Family policy. For the price of 10 days for all four of us, it was worth it for peace of mind, and it wasn't expensive at all. Luckily, we didn't have to use it, but on other occasions when we did, we know that with a simple phone call everything is very easy with Iati, and we avoid co-payments for large medical visits.

If you plan to hire travel insurance in this link you will get a 5% discount at the end:

Internet on mobile: roaming in Italy

Roaming in Italy is like in France or another country in the European Union.

So you don't have to worry about using your mobile phone ; it will be like going to France, at most they will limit your data a little depending on which company you have.

Go early to eat at restaurants, they close at 14 p.m.

In the Dolomites, lunchtime is sacred and early. Most restaurants close at 14 pm , so it's essential to plan your meals accordingly. It's normal to arrive between 12:30 and 13 pm to get a table . This will ensure you enjoy the delicious local cuisine without any rush or worries.

Free public bus movers

A great and affordable way to explore the Dolomites is by using public buses.

If you stay in certain establishments, you can access the Guest Card for the valley you are in, which includes public transport, making it easier to get around the area comfortably and without spending extra.

Staying at a campsite in the Dolomites with children, but make the reservation first and in advance!

For an authentic experience close to nature, consider staying at a campsite. It is a fun and economical option, ideal for adventurous children.

 In addition, campsites usually offer facilities and activities designed for children, as I told you before you have 2 highly recommended ones designed for families such as:  

Camping Vidor in Val di Fassa or Camping Civetta in Val di Zoldo

 Yes, book well in advance, they fill up very quickly and it is difficult to find a place, especially July, August and Christmas.

Get to know the Ladino culture

The Dolomites are a melting pot of cultures, and not only is Italian spoken, but also German and Ladin. Discovering Ladin culture can be an enriching experience for the whole family, immersing you in a unique part of the history and local traditions of the most authentic Dolomites.

The Ladin culture in the Dolomites is rich and unique, marked by a blend of Italian, Austrian, and local influences . The Ladins, an ethnic group from the Eastern Alps , have their own language, Ladin , a Romance language that reflects their distinctive cultural heritage. It bears some resemblance to Italian and also to Catalan. Here are some highlights of their culture, legends, and quirks:

Appearance	Description
Culture	Ladin language: Official Romance language in some areas that are still taught in college.
	Gastronomy: Fusion of Italian and Austrian influences. Resulting in unique dishes such as “canederli” (bread balls), “casunziei” (stuffed empanadas) and “crafons” (fried sweets) very typical of the Dolomites.
	Crafts: Outstanding wood carving.
Legends	The Kingdom of Phanes: Story of a mythical kingdom, with themes of betrayal, love and war.
	King Laurino: Story of King Laurino and his magical rose garden, which is said to transform into spectacular pink rock formations at sunset.
	Mountain Witches: Stories are told of witches in the mountains who perform dances and rituals, especially on full moon nights.
Peculiarities	Festivals and Celebrations: Ladinos celebrate various unique festivities, including music and dance festivals, and ceremonies that mark the changes of the seasons.
	Architecture: Alpine style with Italian influences, characterized by steep roofs and colorful murals on the facades of the houses. In Canazei there is a very beautiful, clear example house.

If you go in winter: important special equipment required for driving

If you are traveling in winter, remember to carry winter tires or snow chains in your vehicle , as it is mandatory in this region.

This will ensure safety on snow-covered roads and prevent possible mishaps.

Also, remember that if you reach -15 degrees (rare but possible) you must use diesel with antifreeze additive, since diesel freezes at -15 degrees, but don't worry, the gas stations there are already prepared.

La Befana instead of the Three Wise Men

A cultural curiosity: in the Dolomites and throughout Italy, instead of the Three Wise Men, comes Befana, a good witch who brings gifts to children on the night of January 5th.

A fascinating tradition to experience if you're there during the festivities! Befana often flies on the cable cars!

On the other hand, they also celebrate Santa Claus on December 25th and Saint Nicholas, like the Germans, on December 6th, who also leaves coins or small gifts for children.

Visit the Christmas Markets

If you go at Christmas, or rather from approximately November 28th to January 6th , you can't miss the Christmas markets in the Dolomites.

They are a magical experience , with lights, decorations and local products that will fascinate children and adults alike.

They have a lot of German tradition and are beautiful because the environment of the Dolomites is magical, as it is known that with snow everything is more Christmassy.

The main Christmas markets in the Dolomites that we liked the most were the following: Bolzano, Trento, Moena, Vipiteno, Bressanone, Moena, Ortisei, Selva di Val Gardena and Pecol in the Val di Zoldo.

Skiing in the Dolomites with children cheap

For ski enthusiasts, the Dolomites are an ideal and dreamlike destination. The Dolomiti Superski 's 1200 km of interconnected ski slopes is unsurpassed, making it the largest ski area in Europe.

There are budget-friendly options and family deals , but as you'll see, they're for 10 days or more.

If you're going skiing for less than 10 days , the best way to save money is not to buy the Dolomiti Superski ski pass, but rather the ski pass for the specific ski area or resort. They often have half-day or single-ride lift tickets that are very reasonably priced, although prices vary depending on the resort.

On the other hand, the resort we definitely recommend for skiing in the Dolomites with children is Val di Zoldo, which includes the entire Civetta ski area and has great slopes for all levels—long and ideal for children and families. There's also a ski school.

Summary of Tips

Council	Description
Meals	Go early to restaurants, they close at 14 p.m.
Transport	Use public buses, take advantage of the Guest Card they give away in accommodations
Accommodations	Consider campsites for a close to nature experience
Culture	Explore and learn about Ladino culture
Winter Precautions	Bring winter tires or chains if you travel in that season
Traditions	Discover the Befana tradition during the festivities
Christmas	Visit the Christmas markets for a unique experience from November 28 to January 6
Activities	Take advantage of offers for family skiing

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In short, the Dolomites with children is a fun-filled experience, rich in culture and adventure for the whole family. Whether enjoying the snow, the food, or the local traditions, the Dolomites promise to be an unforgettable destination for everyone.

Ready for the adventure? See you now with the 19 essential plans in the Dolomites with children to see and do!

What to do and what to see in the Dolomites with children: 19 activities that you should not miss in the Dolomites in summer or winter depending on when you go

Below, I explain the 19 things to see and do in the Dolomites that we liked the most for enjoying as a family , and I also leave you a video with the best things to see and do if you go to the Dolomites in winter with children , although many of the ideas in the video can also be done in summer.

Video of what to do and see in the Dolomites with children in winter

In this video, I'll explain the things you can do in the Dolomites with children in winter. These are the things we did on our last trip this past Christmas with our little ones, and it's a Christmas route we highly recommend. If the Dolomites are beautiful in summer, I assure you that in winter it's like a daydream.

1st essential plan: Climb the highest mountain in the Dolomites as a family: the Marmolada by cable car

Imagine the excitement of the little ones when they go up by cable car to the top of the Marmolada, the highest point in the Dolomites.

The views from the top are breathtaking , and I assure you the kids will be talking about it for weeks. It's an experience you absolutely can't miss!

To reach the Marmolada, you must take the cable car from Malga Ciapela to Punta Rocca , the very top, which is the second highest peak of the Marmolada. Once you arrive, you'll find a breathtaking panoramic terrace. For me, it offers the best views in the entire Dolomites, a stunning sea of ​​mountains all around. Directly opposite, you'll see Punta Penia , the highest peak in the Marmolada and the Dolomites, at 3343 meters.

In addition, there are exhibitions, a cave chapel, restaurant, ski slope and even a museum of the First World War.

Discover some of the most beautiful towns in Italy and Dolomites

Walking through the villages of the Dolomites is like walking through a storybook.

Every corner is a postcard, and children enjoy exploring these picturesque streets full of history and charm. Don't forget your camera, each photo looks like a work of art!

For us, the most beautiful towns in the Dolomites, which are also said to be among the most beautiful in Italy, are : Ortisei, Sottoguda, Moena, Vipiteno, Bressanone, Canazei, Pecol in the Val di Zoldo, Allegue with its lake, Bolzano and Trento.

Walk around some of the most beautiful lakes in the world

The lakes in the Dolomites have such an intense blue color that they seem like something out of a dream . A family walk around these lakes is relaxing and absolutely beautiful. It's the perfect time to connect with nature and with children.

The best lakes: Allegue, Carezza and Braies.

Photograph the church of St Giovanni in Ranui with the beautiful Dolomites mountains behind

Speaking of photography, the church of St. Giovanni di Ranui offers a spectacular backdrop with the Dolomite mountains. Children will have a blast being little photographers , and you'll take home an unforgettable memory of your trip.

Visit the Dolomites Christmas markets

If you travel in winter, you cannot miss the Dolomites Christmas markets. With its festive atmosphere, lights, crafts and local delicacies, children will be delighted. It is a magical experience that captures the essence of Christmas in the Alps.

They are open from approximately November 28th until January 6th.

The best and the ones we liked the most are the Christmas markets of Bolzano, Bressanone, Vipiteno, Ortisei, Selva di Val Gardena, Pecol in the Val di Zoldo, Moena and Trento.

Try some adventure activities in the Dolomites with children

For adventurous families, the Dolomites offer activities such as horse riding , zip-lining, hiking and climbing in the summer.

In winter, activities include alpine skiing, cross-country skiing, biathlon, snowshoeing excursions , and horse riding excursions in the snow.

These experiences are exciting and safe, ideal to enjoy with children. Get ready for the adventure!

The ones that our children liked the most without a doubt on our last trip to the Dolomites:  

• The excursion we did with night snowshoes in the Zoldo Valley organized by Turismo Val di Zoldo with dinner in a refuge.
• Skiing in the domain of Owl
• Learn Biathlon in Palafavera

Have the best artisan ice cream in the world in the Val di Zoldo

The artisanal ice cream in Val di Zoldo is a delight you shouldn't miss. The flavors are unique, and children (and adults!) will absolutely love them.

They are famous all over the world and I assure you that when you try them you understand perfectly.

If you go to an Italian ice cream shop in Spain or the world, ask where the owners are from, they will surely tell you that they are Zoldan! 90% chance!

Visit the highest museum in Europe about the Great War

The Great War Museum, dedicated to World War I , is an educational place where children can learn about history in an engaging way. It's situated in a stunning setting, which makes it all the more special.

The museum tells how Italian and Austrian soldiers lived in the Marmolada during World War I , in very harsh circumstances aggravated by the local climate.

It is accessed by the same cable car that goes to Marmolada from Malga Ciapela , but you have to stop at the stop before Punta Rocca.

Eat local Dolomite food with the kids

The cuisine of the Dolomites is rich and varied. From traditional dishes like canederli, a giant bread and speck (Italian smoked ham) dumpling served in soup or stew, to delicious desserts like strudel , the apple and cinnamon pastry, it's a culinary adventure the whole family will enjoy. Children will undoubtedly love trying new flavors and dishes in the Dolomites.

And if not, you know that macaroni, spaghetti and pizza will always be available so as not to disappoint.

Relax in the hot waters of Dalaòndes in Canazzei, Val di Fassa

After a day of adventure, what better than relaxing in the hot waters of Dalaòndes in Canazei?

It's the perfect place for the whole family to relax and enjoy the stunning natural surroundings of the Dolomites, and it also features a competitive water slide that times how long it takes you to go down!

Discover the Wrought Iron or Carved Wood Crafts of Sottoguda

A visit to Sottoguda offers you the chance to admire exquisite local craftsmanship. Children will be fascinated watching artisans transform iron and wood into true works of art. It's an excellent way to introduce them to the value of handcrafted work and tradition, with shops that are over a century old.

There are also sculptures, both iron and wood, scattered throughout the beautiful town, one of the most beautiful in Italy and the Dolomites.

Go on a family trek through the Dolomites in summer

If you visit the Dolomites in summer, trekking through the Dolomite mountains is essential. One, two or three wow hehehe

There are routes adapted for families with children, where you can enjoy the local flora and fauna, and perhaps even find traces of wild animals. It is a great adventure and a perfect way to teach children to love and respect nature.

Possible routes that you might enjoy as a family are the Viel de Pan route in Pozza di Fassa , the Serrai de Sottoguda route at the foot of the Marmolada , or the route to the Baita Civetta refuge , where you can eat, which starts from Pecol di Val di Zoldo.

Skiing with children in the Dolomites in winter

Skiing in the Dolomites is an experience that should not be missed on your winter trip. The ski resorts are perfectly equipped for families, and watching the children slide down the slopes is a real source of pride.

And don't worry if you are beginners, there are ski schools that will make the experience safe and fun!

The stations we recommend for family outings are:

• Beginners and not daring: Val di Zoldo, Civetta domain. With many blues and slopes of all levels.
• Experts: Belvedere in Canazzei or the Marmolada in Malga Ciapela. Very pretty red ones.

Visit the iron and nail museum in Forno di Zoldo

For a dose of culture and history , the Iron and Nail Museum in Forno di Zoldo is an interesting stop.

It is fascinating to discover how the people of this humble valley have shaped local history. A museum that teaches values ​​and in which the volunteers who run it are the protagonists of past history.

It is open every day from July to September , but outside of those days only with visits arranged through the Val di Zoldo Tourist Office.

Dine in a mountain hut while taking a trip to see the stars

One of the most magical nights of our last trip to the Dolomites this winter was when we had dinner at a mountain refuge. After a hike under the stars , the children were awestruck by the illuminated night sky. It was an experience that brought us even closer as a family!

The activity is organized by Val di Zoldo Turismo and is approximately 6 km round trip with minimal elevation gain, suitable for all ages. You can find registration details in our post about what to see in Val di Zoldo.

Ice skating

The Dolomites in winter are a frozen paradise perfect for ice skating. The kids had so much fun sliding (and falling) that it became one of our activities. Our favorite rink was Forno di Zoldo and Baita Ru in Pecol where you can have dinner and then skate.

Do the Marcialonga on foot, cross-country skiing or by bicycle, 40 km of an easy route through the Val di Fassa

Exploring Marcialonga, whether on foot, cross-country skiing or cycling, will be a 40km adventure through the Val di Fassa.

 Although it sounds challenging, it is an easy route and the landscapes are so impressive that it flew by.

Our dream is to come back and do it by bike in the summer!

We did the section that goes from Pozza di Fassa to Moena, perhaps the easiest and we did it on cross-country skis, although people were also walking because there was not much snow.

Try a new sport in the Dolomites with children: climbing for example in summer or biathlon in winter

Encouraging children to try new mountain sports is always exciting. In summer, you can try a climbing course in Val di Zoldo, and in winter, biathlon in Palafavera is fantastic. Seeing their faces, focused and then beaming with pride when they succeed, is priceless!

Stay in one of the best Dolomites campsites for children and enjoy the outdoors

We opted to stay in campsites, and it was the right decision. The campsites in the Dolomites are perfectly equipped for families. The children enjoyed the outdoors and it offered us a way to be in touch with nature.

These two are the top ones with children:

Camping Vidor in Val di Fassa

This campsite is undoubtedly the best for children in the Dolomites, thanks to its play areas , mini-club, and swimming pools with slides . However, the ski slopes in winter are best suited for more experienced skiers.

Camping Civetta in Val di Zoldo

The second campsite in our top Dolomite campsites list is its children's playrooms, child-friendly bathrooms, and nearby activities such as skiing, as it is located at the foot of the cable car and slopes, which are blue slopes for all levels of skiing in winter.

Summary of proposed plans for the entire year

Activity	Description
Climb the Highest Mountain by Cable Car (Marmolada)	Ascend by cable car to the top of Marmolada, enjoying impressive views.
Explore Picturesque Towns	Tour charming towns, perfect for family walks and photography.
Walk through Alpine Lakes	Enjoy the beauty and tranquility of the lakes of the Dolomites.
Photograph the Church of St Giovanni de Ranui	Capture memorable images with the Dolomite mountains in the background.
Adventure and Sports	Try zip lines, hiking and other outdoor activities for adventurous families.
Try Artisan Ice Cream in Val di Zoldo	Taste delicious artisan ice cream, a favorite for children.
Visit Educational Museums	Learn about local history and culture in interactive museums.
Savor Local Food	Enjoy the gastronomy of the Dolomites, from traditional dishes to desserts.
Relax in Hot Springs	Rest in the Dalaòndes hot springs in Canazzei, ideal for the family.
Dine in a Mountain Refuge and See the Stars	A magical night with dinner in a mountain hut, followed by a walk to observe the stars.
Marcialonga in Val di Fassa	40 km adventure through the Val di Fassa, whether walking, cross-country skiing or cycling.
Try New Sports	Opportunity for children to try sports such as climbing in the summer or biathlon in the winter.
Accommodation in Family Campsites	Stay at campsites suitable for children, enjoying the outdoors and nature.

Traveling to the Dolomites with children is an adventure that combines fun, learning and connection with nature. Every day brings with it new experiences and learnings. From Dolomites camping to Dolomites skiing with children, there are options for all tastes and ages.

If you liked this proposal, improve it and enjoy it with your family! Then I hope you share it with us in comments!

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