Italy — Dolomites, Veneto
Is it safe to travel to Cortina d'Ampezzo?
Yes — Cortina is a safe, well-run Dolomites town. The hazards are mountain weather, via ferrata terrain and the winding pass roads.
Reviewed 16 September 2026 · iLuxuryTravels Editorial
Cortina is a settled Italian mountain town with a long international season, low crime and a busy, walkable Corso Italia that stays lively into the evening. Visitors rarely encounter anything beyond a busy car park.
The Dolomites are spectacular and technical. Via ferrata routes around Tofana and Cinque Torri are exposed and need a harness, helmet, lanyard and ideally a guide; people get into difficulty each summer treating them as hikes. Afternoon thunderstorms build quickly above the treeline.
In winter, the passes — Falzarego, Giau, Tre Croci — are beautiful and demanding, with ice, hairpins and occasional closures. Winter tyres or chains are mandatory in season, and a driver is the calmer option after a long dinner.
Cortina d'Ampezzo safety: the questions people actually ask
- Is it safe to travel to Cortina d'Ampezzo?
- Yes. Crime affecting visitors is rare and the town is well organised. Plan around mountain conditions and driving rather than security.
- Are the via ferrata routes safe?
- They are safe with proper equipment and, for most visitors, a guide. A harness, helmet and via ferrata lanyard are not optional, and routes should be started early to avoid afternoon storms.
- Is driving the Dolomite passes dangerous in winter?
- They are demanding — steep hairpins, ice and occasional closures. Winter tyres or chains are required by law in season. Hire a driver if you are not confident.
- Is Cortina safe for families?
- Yes. The town centre is pedestrianised in part, the nursery slopes are gentle, and the Dolomiti Superski lift system is well managed.
- Is the tap water safe to drink?
- Yes. Tap water in Cortina is safe and of good quality.