If you are heading to the Dolomites, Lago di Braies deserves a spot at the very top of your list. You have probably seen the photos one hundred times of the emerald water, the wooden boats lined up perfectly, the dramatic mountains rising straight out of the lake. But if you are in the planning process you’re probably wondering where exactly it is and (more importantly) how to get there without stress.
Here is a clear, realistic guide to getting to Lago di Braies, plus a few things I wish I knew before going.
Where Lago di Braies Is Located
Lago di Braies sits in northern Italy in the Dolomites, very close to the Austrian border. The Dolomites cover a large region, so it helps to think of Lago di Braies as one specific stop within a broader itinerary rather than a destination you casually pass through. This lake is actually pretty out of the way, so you won’t “pass through” it unless you’re driving from the Dolomites up through Austria.
If you are planning a Dolomites road trip, a popular and very logical route looks like this:
- Start in Milan
- Head east toward Lake Garda
- Continue to Verona
- Drive north to Bolzano
- Make your way across to Cortina dโAmpezzo
- Finish by heading out through Venice
This is the exact route I did, but you can absolutely reverse it and start or end in Milan instead. Either direction works well.
The Best Base for Visiting Lago di Braies
To visit Lago di Braies comfortably, you will want to stay in Cortina dโAmpezzo. It is one of the most popular towns in the Dolomites and for good reason. The scenery is unreal, the town is charming, and it puts you within easy driving distance of many of the regionโs most beautiful spots.
You could stay in other towns, but Cortina d’Ampezzo is one of the most convenient bases for Lago di Braies, especially if you are doing a wider Dolomites itinerary.
We stayed at Hotel Camina Suite and Spa and I highly recommend it. It is exactly what you picture when you think of a relaxing Alpine stay. Incredible views, cozy rooms, and very used to guests heading out early for hikes and lake visits.
Hotel Camina Suite & Spa
The best hotel in Cortina d’Ampezzo!
You Need a Car (Yes, Really)
There will always be comments saying you can take the bus. Technically, yes, you can. Realistically, if you want a good experience, you need a car.
Most of the Dolomites are best explored by car, and Lago di Braies is no exception. Having a car allows you to arrive early before tour groups, move at your own pace, stop along the drive for photos, and avoid tight bus schedules.
We rented our car in Milan at the train station, which was incredibly easy. The cars are parked right outside and you are on the road almost immediately.
The drive from Cortina dโAmpezzo to Lago di Braies takes about one hour.
When to Go and Why Timing Matters
Timing is everything at Lago di Braies. If you want to see the iconic wooden boats lined up from the boathouse, you need to arrive early. The boats typically stay lined up until around 8:30 or 9:00 AM. After that, they start going out on the water and the area becomes much busier. Plan to arrive by 8:00 AM at the latest!
Don’t Forget Your Passport Cover! Made in Italy ๐
We arrived before 8:00 and had no issues with parking. When we left around 9:00 to 9:30, tour buses were pouring in and the parking lot was completely full.
I visited in early September, and even then it was very busy, so do not assume shoulder season means quiet.
Breakfast and Food Tips
This is something people rarely talk about, but it matters.
Once you leave Cortina and head toward Lago di Braies, there are very few food options, and almost nothing will be open that early in the morning. This area is pretty far out from other towns, so do not expect a lot of cafes or bakeries along the way. If you are a breakfast person like me, plan ahead!
Pro travel tip:
Many hotels in Cortina are used to guests leaving early and will offer pre made breakfasts like breakfast sandwiches, burritos, coffee, or pastries. Our hotel did this, but we had to let them know the night before. Check with your hotel in advance so you are not hungry until midday.
The Drive to Lago di Braies
The drive itself is part of the experience. It is so beautiful.
Early in the morning, the air is crisp and cool. You will pass open fields, cows along the roadside, and small Alpine buildings that feel more Austrian than Italian. It is peaceful, quiet, and honestly one of the most beautiful drives I have ever done.
Parking and Getting to the Lake
There is a large parking area near the lake. From the parking lot, it is a very short and easy walk to the water.
Once you arrive, you will see the famous lake house and boat dock immediately. The view is breathtaking and somehow still manages to exceed expectations, even after seeing it online so many times.
What to Wear
Even in summer, mornings at Lago di Braies are cold. During my trip, I wore shorts and tank tops for hikes later in the day, but at the lake early in the morning I needed leggings and a coat. Dress in layers so you can adjust as the day warms up.
Walking Around the Lake
There is a trail that loops around Lago di Braies, allowing you to see the lake from multiple angles. While the map makes it look like the path goes over the water, it stays along the shoreline the entire way.
We walked about a third of the loop, which was perfect. It gave us quieter views, different perspectives of the mountains, and stunning angles looking back at the boats and lake house.
As the morning went on, the lake became busier and the boats began heading out onto the water. It was really special to experience both the still, quiet lake early on and then see it come to life.
@lauravogelle How to get to Lago di Braies from Cortina dโAmpezzo & Dolomites itinerary planning. ๐๏ธ๐๏ธ #vogelle #dolomites #italytravel #northernitaly #lagodibraies #travelguide #greenscreen โฌ original sound – Laura Vogel
Final Thoughts
Lago di Braies is one of the most picturesque places I have ever seen. If you are visiting the Dolomites or even southern Austria, it is absolutely worth the early wake up and the drive.
If you want help planning the rest of your trip, I have a full five day Dolomites guide that walks through routes, hotels, and must see stops in detail.
Read more about the dolomites
5 Days in the Dolomites Travel Guide
In this guide weโll be heading to Bolzano, Selva di Val Gardena, Seceda, Sassolungo, Cortina dโAmpezzo, Lago di Braies, and more.
