How to Elope in the Dolomites

Frequently Asked Questions About Eloping in the Dolomites:

Frequently Asked Questions about Eloping in the Dolomites:

Page Last Updated: 11/15/2025

How do we avoid crowds for our Dolomites wedding ceremony and photos?

Avoid summer, weekends, and local holidays. Choose sunrise or weekday weddings, shoulder months (early June or late September), and less-popular locations. Hire an experienced photographer who knows off-the-beaten-path routes and best timing. Longer hikes are more likely to offer seclusion and amazing views.

Do we have to hike to get to Dolomites elopement locations?

No, most of the best locations are accessible with just short walks from a parking lot or cablecar. Some locations do require moderate hikes and often offer more seclusion. Select a location best for your fitness level, and utilize lifts to minimize walking while still keeping the epic views.

How much does a Dolomites elopement cost?

Costs vary: Typical Dolomites elopements normally cost roughly $8,000–$20,000 for photographer, travel, planner, lodging, flowers, and HMUA. A very low-budget elopement can cost a few thousand dollars.  Luxury options, multi-day experiences, helicopter tours, or private guides will increase the budget. Reach out to vendors early in the planning process. Photography is normally the largest section of the budget.

When to avoid the Dolomites?

Avoid national holidays in August when things are closed, and busy summer weekends when trails are full. Avoid late October to early May for most locations, unless you're planning a winter ski elopement and don't mind fewer location options. Avoid Early Spring as a lot of the Dolomites close down during that time.

Do I need a wedding planner or coordinator to get married in the Dolomites?

Not always, but worth it for most people. A good photographer or  planner will reduce stress and help you: choose your location, understand permits, navigate transportation and weather. They also recommend vetted florists, HMUA, and other vendors familiar with the Dolomites.

Are the Dolomites expensive?

They can be budget or high-end. Local eateries and mountain huts can be affordable, whereas luxury hotels and private tours will increase the cost.  Off-season is less expensive, Peak-season (Jun-Sept and Jan-Feb) is most expensive. Depending on your preference the Dolomites can be very affordable or very luxurious.

Can we bring guests to our Dolomites elopement?

Yes. We recommend no more than 30 guests for the best intimacy and easier logistics. Larger groups will have fewer location options, and require more transportation planning, mountain venues limit parking. Plan ahead with vendors and the local Comune to get travel and ceremony logistics accomplished.

When should we book our Dolomites wedding vendors (photographer, florist, HMUA)?

Book mountain-experienced vendors 6–12 months ahead for peak season dates (June-Sept). 3–6 months may be okay for shoulder seasons. Verify vendors' mountain experience and cancellation policies. Busy photographers and florists book weekend dates well in advance. It's best to book your photographer first.

How do we plan around the weather in the Dolomites?

Have a weather buffer day in case of rain/snow storms. Work with a photographer who is experienced with shooting in the mountains. Select an alternative indoor backup or village location, if necessary. Check local nearby forecasts and lift/road conditions around the date. Multi-day coverage for vendors relieves stress if weather changes.

Can we elope with pets in the Dolomites?

Yes, you can absolutely elope with your dog in the Dolomites, many trails, cable cars and accommodations are pet-friendly. You’ll need to keep them on-leash in most areas, and make sure you have an EU pet passport or equivalent, a microchip, and valid vaccinations. Choose trails matching your dog’s fitness and avoid narrow cliff’s for your pet’s safety.

Are there permit fees or restrictions for flowers, arches or props?

Handheld bouquets are fine. Large installations within national parks or protected regions may require permits or are prohibited. The popular Lago di Braies boat dock does allow floral and arch installations. Always check with the Comune or park agency and utilize natural material that is leave-no-trace compliant. 

Are the Dolomites open year-round?

Yes, but access and facilities are seasonal. Summer and early autumn offer the widest trail and lift access. Winter means ski resorts are open, and much of the Dolomites closes down in Spring. Always inspect lift, road and rifugio openings before planning your Dolomites trip.

What language is spoken in the Dolomites?

German and Italian are the most frequently spoken, especially in South Tyrol where German dominates; Ladin is a dialect spoken natively in a handful of valleys. English is widely spoken at tourist destinations.

Where are the Dolomites mountains in Italy?

The Dolomites are situated in northeast Italy across provinces of Belluno, South Tyrol and Trentino, with large valleys like Val Gardena, Alta Badia, Val di Funes, Val di Fassa and Cortina d'Ampezzo. UNESCO land includes most characteristic peaks and valleys.

Are the Dolomites part of the Alps?

Yes. The Dolomites are a special mountain range within the eastern Alps. They are geologically unique due to their pale-colored carbonate rock and stunning towers, but they are part of the overall Alpine system running from central Europe.

Why are the Dolomites famous?

The Dolomites are famous for pale limestone peaks of spectacular scenery, dramatic ridgelines, and sheer cliffs that offer spectacular sunrise and sunset light. They are a UNESCO World Heritage site popular for unique geology, via ferrata climbing, skiing and iconic photo images.

How did the Dolomites form?

The Dolomites formed from ancient carbonate reefs that rose out of sediments in lagoons and were uplifted during the Alpine orogeny. Tectonic strain and erosion sculpted the vertically spectacular scenery of the area that is dominated by steep cliffs, pinnacles and plateaux.