Ortisei

ORTISEI

Latest page update: 2 May 2025
By: Dion Protani
A ski resort in the Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol region, Ortisei is located in the province of Bolzano. With a population of 4,764 in 2025, it covers 24 km² and sits at an elevation of 1,230 metres.

​Key highlights include Chiesa San Ulrico and the Museo de Gherdëina. It is located approximately 40 km northeast of Bolzano, the provincial capital.
Ortisei is one of the key ski resorts in the Val Gardena area of the Dolomites; a sub-range of the Italian Alps. In an area where a mixture of languages are spoken, the resort is often referred to as Urtijëi which comes from the local Ladin language. Both German and Italian are also widely spoken in Ortisei and the other resorts of Val Gardena. 

The resort is characterised by a number of Alpine-chalet-style hotels, often brightly-coloured which lend the town a distinctly cheerful appearance. One of the prettiest sights is the Chiesa San Ulrico while the Museo de Gherdëina exhibits local arts, crafts and historical artefacts. 

What People Ask About Ortisei

What is Ortisei known for?
Ortisei is known for its beautiful setting in Val Gardena and as a popular base for skiing and hiking in the Dolomites. It’s also famous for woodcarving traditions, colourful buildings, and access to the Seceda and Alpe di Siusi areas.
Is Ortisei worth visiting?
Yes, Ortisei is well worth visiting for its scenery, Alpine charm, and outdoor activities. It’s a year-round destination with ski slopes in winter and some of the Dolomites' best hiking and cable car views in summer.
How do you get to Ortisei?
Ortisei can be reached by bus or car from Bolzano. The nearest train station is in Ponte Gardena, with buses making the 20 km journey into Val Gardena. The area is well connected to regional airports by road.
What can you do in Ortisei?
Visitors can explore local shops and restaurants, take cable cars to Seceda or Alpe di Siusi, and enjoy skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, and biking. The town also features museums and art galleries focused on regional crafts and traditions.
Is Ortisei good for families?
Yes, Ortisei is very family-friendly, with gentle slopes, ski schools, playgrounds, and walking trails. In summer, it’s a great base for cable car rides and alpine picnics with routes suitable for children.
Related links

Overview

Overview
Ortisei, located in the Dolomites in the South Tyrol region, is a picturesque town known for its alpine charm and stunning mountain views. This scenic destination combines traditional Tyrolean architecture with modern amenities, offering visitors a peaceful atmosphere while providing easy access to the surrounding natural beauty. Ortisei is a popular base for outdoor activities, as well as a hub for culture, with its rich history reflected in its art and architecture.
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The resort is renowned for its skiing and snowboarding opportunities, with access to the Dolomiti Superski area, one of the largest ski networks in the world. The town also offers various hiking trails during the summer months, allowing visitors to explore the breathtaking Dolomite peaks. In addition to skiing and hiking, Ortisei is a great spot for mountain biking, snowshoeing, and wellness experiences. The town is home to several spas and wellness centres where visitors can relax after a day of outdoor adventures, as well as cultural attractions such as the Museum Gherdëina, showcasing the area's rich history and art.

Things to Do

Things to Do
  • Seceda: A stunning mountain peak offering panoramic views of the Dolomites, Seceda is a popular destination for skiing, snowboarding, and hiking. In the winter, it transforms into a ski resort with a variety of slopes, while in the summer, it’s a great place for hiking, mountain biking, and taking in the breathtaking scenery.
  • Museo Val Gardena: Located in the heart of Ortisei, this museum showcases the history and culture of the Val Gardena region. The museum’s collection includes traditional wood carvings, historical artefacts, and exhibits on the local history, making it a fascinating stop for visitors interested in the area’s heritage.
  • Chiesa di Sant'Ulderico: A beautiful church in Ortisei, Chiesa di Sant'Ulderico is known for its striking Baroque architecture and its intricate interior. The church is dedicated to St. Ulderico, the patron saint of Ortisei, and is an important cultural and religious site for both locals and visitors.
  • Gardena Valley: The surrounding Gardena Valley offers spectacular natural beauty, with lush meadows, alpine forests, and towering mountains. It’s an ideal location for hiking, cycling, and outdoor activities, with numerous trails catering to different levels of difficulty and stunning views at every turn.
  • Alpe di Siusi: Just outside Ortisei, Alpe di Siusi is Europe’s largest high-altitude plateau, known for its picturesque landscapes and outdoor activities. Whether it’s skiing and snowboarding in winter or hiking and paragliding in the summer, Alpe di Siusi offers year-round opportunities for adventure.
Tours & Activities
Comune di Ortisei
Gemeinde St. Ulrich
Province: ​Bolzano

Region: Trentino Alto-Adige South Tyrol

Population: 4,764​ (in 2024 - source)

Size: 24 km²

Elevation: 1,230 metres

Highlights: Chiesa San Ulrico, Museo de Gherdëina

​Close by: Santa Cristina in Val Gardena, Selva di Val Gardena

Where to Stay

Where to Stay
  • Gardena Grödnerhof Hotel & Spa Located in the heart of Ortisei, this luxury hotel offers elegant rooms with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, a comprehensive spa, and a Michelin-starred restaurant. Guests appreciate the central location, exceptional service, and proximity to skiing facilities and hiking trails. €€€ (high-end)
  • Hotel Angelo Engel Situated near the pedestrian zone of Ortisei, this family-run hotel features spacious rooms with traditional décor, a wellness centre, and an indoor pool. Visitors enjoy the warm hospitality, convenient location for exploring the town, and easy access to the Seceda ski area. €€ (mid-range)
  • Cavallino Bianco Family Spa Grand Hotel This family-friendly hotel offers luxurious rooms, an extensive spa with multiple pools, and a variety of dining options. Guests appreciate the dedicated children's programmes, proximity to ski lifts, and the hotel's commitment to exceptional service. €€€ (high-end)
  • Hotel Genziana Located a short walk from the Alpe di Siusi ski slopes, this hotel offers comfortable rooms with mountain views, a wellness centre, and a restaurant serving South Tyrolean cuisine. Visitors enjoy the convenient location for skiing, the relaxing spa facilities, and the hearty breakfasts. €€ (mid-range)
  • Hotel Pradell Set on the ski slope, this adults-only hotel offers modern rooms with panoramic views, a spa, and a bar. Guests appreciate the ski-in/ski-out access, the tranquil environment, and the attentive service. €€ (mid-range)

Where to Eat

Where to Eat
  • Ristorante Anna Stuben: Located in the centre of Ortisei, Ristorante Anna Stuben offers a refined dining experience focused on South Tyrolean cuisine. Known for its use of local ingredients, the menu features traditional dishes like speck, canederli (bread dumplings), wild game, as well as fresh pasta and risotto. The elegant decor and exceptional service make it perfect for a special occasion or romantic dinner. Price Guide: €€€ (Mid-range)
  • Osteria Tubladel: Situated just outside the city centre, in St. Ulrich, Osteria Tubladel offers a warm, rustic atmosphere and a menu that blends Tyrolean and Italian flavours. The menu includes hearty dishes such as gnocchi with wild mushrooms, roasted meats, and risotto with saffron. The friendly service and cosy setting make it a great spot for a casual yet satisfying meal. Price Guide: €€ (Affordable)
  • Ristorante S. Hubertus: Located in the luxury Rosa Alpina Hotel in San Cassiano, about a 45-minute drive from Ortisei, Ristorante S. Hubertus is a Michelin-starred restaurant offering a gourmet dining experience. The menu features creative, refined dishes such as risotto with truffle, venison with polenta, and fresh fish. The exceptional service, stunning decor, and extensive wine list make it ideal for a special occasion. Price Guide: €€€€ (High-end)
  • Ristorante Laurin: Situated in Ortisei, Ristorante Laurin offers traditional South Tyrolean and Italian cuisine with a focus on local ingredients. The menu includes dishes like canederli, ravioli with butter and sage, and grilled meats. The relaxed atmosphere and welcoming service make it a perfect spot for a more casual dining experience. Price Guide: €€ (Affordable)
  • Ristorante Al Faggio: Located in Santa Cristina Valgardena, a nearby town about 5 km from Ortisei, Ristorante Al Faggio offers traditional Tyrolean dishes made with seasonal, high-quality ingredients. The menu includes options like polenta with cheese, wild game, and homemade pastas. The beautiful surroundings, combined with excellent food and service, make it a wonderful place for a memorable meal. Price Guide: €€€ (Mid-range)

Photo Gallery

Nearby Places

Nearby Places
  • Selva di Val Gardena (approx. 15 km northeast of Ortisei): A popular mountain resort town in the Dolomites, Selva di Val Gardena is known for its ski slopes and stunning alpine scenery. It offers excellent skiing in the winter and is a great base for hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing during the summer. The town is part of the Dolomiti Superski area and provides easy access to the Sella Ronda circuit.
  • Santa Cristina Val Gardena (approx. 10 km northeast of Ortisei): Located between Ortisei and Selva di Val Gardena, Santa Cristina offers a quieter atmosphere with easy access to the surrounding ski areas. The town is perfect for visitors seeking outdoor activities, including skiing, hiking, and cycling. The nearby Puez-Odle Nature Park offers stunning views and hiking trails, making it ideal for nature lovers.
  • Canazei (approx. 25 km south of Ortisei): Situated in the Fassa Valley, Canazei is a popular ski resort and summer destination. Known for its picturesque setting and vibrant atmosphere, the town offers skiing, snowboarding, and cross-country skiing in winter. In the summer, Canazei is a base for hiking and mountain biking, with trails leading to the beautiful Marmolada glacier and surrounding peaks.
  • Alba di Canazei (approx. 20 km south of Ortisei): A smaller, quieter village close to Canazei, Alba di Canazei offers a peaceful environment for outdoor enthusiasts. It provides access to the Fassa Valley's ski slopes in the winter and numerous hiking routes in the summer. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the Dolomites and explore the nearby natural parks, including the Fanes-Senes-Braies Natural Park.
  • Val di Funes (approx. 20 km east of Ortisei): A scenic valley known for its breathtaking views of the Dolomites, Val di Funes is home to the iconic Geisler Peaks. The valley offers hiking trails suitable for all levels, as well as opportunities for mountain biking and photography. The picturesque village of Santa Maddalena, with its traditional wooden houses and the famous church with the backdrop of the peaks, is a highlight for visitors.
Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations

1. Lake Braies
2. Trento
3. Bolzano
4. Val Gardena
5. Riva del Garda
6. Lake Tenno
7. ​Bressanone
8. Rovereto
9. Glorenza
10. San Candido

​👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol

Getting There

Getting There
By Rail: Ortisei does not have its own train station. The nearest station is in Bolzano, about 35 km away. Trains from major cities like Verona (around 2 hours by train) and Trento (about 1 hour by train) connect to Bolzano. From the station, you can take a bus or taxi to Ortisei, which takes around 45 minutes.

By Road: Ortisei is approximately 40 km from Bolzano, and the drive takes around 40 minutes via the SS12 road. From Bressanone, it is about 30 km, and the drive takes around 35 minutes. There are several car parks near the town centre, although parking can be limited during the peak tourist seasons, especially in the ski season.

Nearest International Airports: The nearest international airport to Ortisei is Bolzano Airport (Aeroporto di Bolzano), located about 40 km away. The drive takes around 40 minutes. From the airport, you can take a taxi or shuttle directly to Ortisei.

Another alternative is Innsbruck Airport (Flughafen Innsbruck), about 120 km away. The drive takes around 1.5 hours. From Innsbruck, you can take a train to Bolzano and then transfer to a bus or taxi to Ortisei.
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Additional Transport Options: Local buses connect Ortisei to nearby towns like Bolzano and Bressanone, offering a convenient option for visitors without a car. These buses run frequently, especially during the winter and summer months.

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