Road trip: Italy, from the lake route to the dolomites route
Italians have a true love affair with cars, accompanied by the sound of blaring horns and legendary brands renowned worldwide for their refined elegance and powerful engines.
Indulge in the pleasure of driving through the roads of Verona and the beautiful lake region to the famous Dolomite road. As stunning panoramas unfold in your rearview mirror, you’ll gain a more authentic perspective on these Italian Alpine regions, both culturally and gastronomically, far from bustling capitals and summer crowds.
In Verona, following the footsteps of Romeo and Juliet
The starting point of your road trip to the Dolomites is Verona, known as the mythical city of Shakespeare’s lovers. However, Verona is also an ancient city full of historical and architectural treasures, making it an excellent first stop.
Visiting Verona feels like a journey through time, from Roman-era ruins to medieval fortifications and the monumental perspectives of the Renaissance. From the central squares where a picturesque vegetable market neighbors grand palaces, head to Verona’s must-see sites: the majestic Piazza dei Signori, the bustling Piazza delle Erbe (built on the ancient Roman forum), the fortified bridges over the Adige River, and, of course, Juliet’s iconic balcony.
Undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities in Veneto, Verona is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its urban planning and architecture. You will understand why after exploring this city.
Before hitting the road again, take the opportunity to savor local specialties: gnocchi made from potatoes, polenta, or the famous risotto with salami.
On the way to Lake Garda
Lake Garda is one of the most popular road trip destinations for tourists, who come to enjoy its mild climate and idyllic locations reflected in the clear waters of Italy’s largest lake. Drive along the shores of this immense lake, crossing three Italian provinces—Veneto, Lombardy, and Trentino-Alto Adige—within a mere 50 kilometers.
You will encounter diverse landscapes: the vineyards of Valpolicella, the lemon and olive trees of Gargnano typical of Mediterranean vegetation, and Monte Baldo, accessible by cable car for breathtaking views of the lake. Along the coastal road, don’t miss essential stops.
Take time to explore the Roman ruins on the Sirmione peninsula, a lively tourist town situated on a promontory surrounded by water, where the famous singer Maria Callas once found peace. Exploring the southern area allows you to stop along the “Olive Coast,” known for its wine culture, and visit Bardolino, a resort town combining cultural discoveries with beach relaxation. On the N572 road, discover paradisiacal spots such as the elegant resort of Salo or Gardone Riviera, home to the Vittoriale degli Italiani estate, a gem of Lake Garda.
As you drive, alternate between the pleasure of wide roads through southern hills and the sharp hairpin turns along steep cliffs leading to the north.
Drive slowly to enjoy the views of mountains rising from the lake, visit charming villages, and take breaks in secluded spots. Pause in an osteria, one of the typical cafes where you can taste Prosecco or Spritz, or enjoy a meal in a trattoria offering delicious menus based on local products.
End your journey at Riva del Garda, on the northern tip of the lake. The beauty of the scenery and historical landmarks will make you forget the cooler climate. This marks the final stage of your road trip around Lake Garda, where the path to the Dolomites begins.
A stop in Bolzano
Leave behind the winding road along Lake Garda and head to Bolzano, the capital of South Tyrol and a key crossroads between Italian provinces and Germanic regions. Interestingly, German is the most widely spoken language here.
More than just a popular ski destination, Bolzano is the gateway to the famous Dolomites Natural Park, one of Italy’s most beautiful natural sites and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Dolomites, also known as the Monti Pallidi (Pale Mountains) due to their white limestone, offer a unique panorama of jagged peaks, rocky walls, and glaciers spanning several provinces.
In spring and summer, nature flourishes with abundant vineyards and orchards. The flavors of this rich landscape are reflected in the regional cuisine, blending Central European and Mediterranean traditions. Enjoy delicacies like Speck, a deliciously smoked ham with a PGI label, and exceptional wines made from AOC-certified Lagrein and Santa Maddalena grape varieties, recognized internationally for their unique aromas.
Arrival in Cortina d’Ampezzo via the Dolomite road
To reach Veneto by car, be sure to program the Dolomite road into your GPS—hailed by renowned architect Le Corbusier as “the most beautiful natural architecture in the world.”
You simply cannot bypass this stunning scenic route, which spans over 100 kilometers of breathtaking landscapes stretching from east to west.
Prepare for several hours of driving along narrow roads and dizzying ravines to reach Lake Karersee, a retreat favored by Empress Sissi and famous for its clear green and blue waters that reflect the surrounding mountains. From the lake, embark on some of the most beautiful alpine hikes. Even if hiking isn’t your passion, the panoramic views of this unique UNESCO-listed mountain range will captivate you.
Mountain driving enthusiasts will revel in the many hairpin bends through pine valleys and mountain passes, culminating in Cortina d’Ampezzo, an elegant winter sports resort beloved by Italians and tourists alike.
