Frequently asked questions about the cable cars in the Dolomites
Which cable car has the best view of the Dolomites?
There is no single “best” viewpoint – the perspectives are too different. A few favourites stand out, however: the Marmolada cable car takes you from Malga Ciapela up to 3,265 metres, where breathtaking panoramic views across the Dolomites unfold – the highest and arguably most far-reaching panorama in the entire region. The Freccia nel Cielo mountain station near Cortina d'Ampezzo is also impressive: from the viewing terrace at the Tofana di Mezzo, the view extends 360 degrees over all the mountain groups of the Dolomites. In the South Tyrolean Dolomites, Seceda in Val Gardena is the top choice, while Monte Elmo and Plan de Corones also offer spectacular views. Depending on which region you visit, you will find spectacular views everywhere in the Dolomites.
Do you need to pre-book a cable car in the Dolomites?
Not necessarily – for most Dolomites cable cars, you can simply buy your ticket at the valley station. Seceda is an exception: you must book your ticket online in advance for a specific time slot, as visitor numbers at the mountain station are limited.
Are Dolomites cable cars open all year round?
No. Most Dolomites cable cars operate seasonally: in winter, roughly from late November to mid-April, and in summer, generally from late May to mid-October. Exact dates may vary slightly depending on the lift and snow conditions. In between, during spring and late autumn, many lifts take a seasonal break. If you have a particular Dolomites cable car in mind, it’s best to check the current operating times with the operator in advance.
Can you take bikes on cable cars in the Dolomites?
Yes, many Dolomites cable cars now offer bike transport, with bikes usually taken into the cabin. It’s best to check with the individual cable car in advance to see whether bikes are permitted and what the conditions are, as these vary from one lift to another.
What happens if the weather is bad — do cable cars still run?
Not always. In strong winds, thunderstorms or when there is a risk of lightning, cable cars may be temporarily suspended or shut down altogether for safety reasons. Dense fog can also lead to operational restrictions at some facilities. Light rain or cloudy skies are usually not a problem – most cable cars continue to run as normal. Therefore, it's worth checking the current weather conditions when planning excursions.
Recommended hiking hotels in the Dolomites
All hiking hotels
Other points of interest besides the cable cars