How to Visit Lago di Braies: Travel Guide to the Most Beautiful Lake in the Dolomites

Pearl of the Alps

Lago di Braies is perhaps the most iconic lake in the Dolomites – and also one of the most visited.

We’ve been twice ourselves, in autumn and in winter, and we would happily return to see it in spring or summer.

The lake lies in the middle of the dramatic Dolomites, surrounded by mountains and dense forest.

The water is crystal clear and turquoise, and when the sun hangs low over the peaks, the whole place reflects a calm and beauty that’s hard to match.

To us, Lago di Braies is one of the most beautiful lakes in the world!

It’s also known as Lake Braies, Lake Prags or Pragser Wildsee (in German), but we’ll mostly be using the Italian name: Lago di Braies.

In this travel guide to Lago di Braies, we’ll share why we think it’s worth a visit and how we experienced it.

You’ll find info about the walking route around the lake, practical details like opening times and parking, when to go, and our best tips on how to make the most of your visit.

Where to stay near Lago di Braies

Adlinks
• Value for money: Hotel Lago di Braies – Hotel right on the lake, where you can wake up to spectacular views of Lago di Braies.
• Value for money: Romantik Hotel Santer – 4-star hotel with a pool near Dobbiaco (Toblach), 15-20 minutes from the lake. It’s also close to Tre Cime and the Monte Specie hike.
• Luxury: Hotel Trenker – Luxurious 4-star hotel for adults only with a spa, pool and stunning mountain views, just 2 kilometres (~ 1.2 miles) from Lago di Braies.

Search for the best hotels near Lago di Braies here or read our comprehensive guide to where to stay in the Dolomites.

What is Lago di Braies?

Lago di Braies (also known as Pragser Wildsee in German or Lake Braies/Lake Prags in English) is an alpine lake in the Dolomites, located in South Tyrol, Northern Italy.

The lake is famous for its stunning scenery, with mirror-clear turquoise water framed by majestic mountains.

You’ve probably seen photos of Lago di Braies on Instagram – it’s one of the most photographed lakes in the Dolomites and a true icon.

The lake attracts visitors all year round, with summer and winter tourists alike coming to enjoy the views, take a boat trip, or hike around the lake and nearby mountains.

Map of Lago di Braies

Lago di Braies (Pragser Wildsee) is located in northeastern South Tyrol in Italy close to the border with Austria. The lake is part of the Fanes-Sennes-Braies Nature Park.

It’s relatively small, measuring about 1.2 kilometres (0.75 miles) long and 300 metres (984 feet) wide. Sitting at 1,496 metres (4,908 feet) above sea level, it’s surrounded by dramatic mountain peaks.

Why visit Lago di Braies

The beauty of Lago di Braies is undoubtedly its biggest draw.

We have to admit, it’s one of the most stunning lakes we’ve ever seen – perhaps right up there with Eibsee in Garmisch-Partenkirchen.

Although Lago di Braies is no longer a well-kept secret (it’s one of the most visited spots in the Dolomites!), there’s good reason why so many flock here. It truly deserves its nickname: the Pearl of the Alps.

The lake sits within the picturesque Fanes-Sennes-Braies Nature Park and is easily reached by car or public transport.

That makes it a perfect stop for hikers, families, or anyone simply wanting to drive by and take in the view.

If you fancy a stroll, the walk around the lake is easy and relatively short, with plenty of great viewpoints along the way.

If you’re after a place in the Dolomites where you can enjoy a unique nature experience without much effort, Lago di Braies is an obvious choice.

Why you shouldn’t visit Lago di Braies

Lago di Braies is undeniably beautiful, but its popularity has brought some challenges with overtourism.

During the high season – especially in July and August – the area can get very crowded, which may take away from the peaceful atmosphere.

There are plenty of other stunning lakes in the Dolomites worth visiting that often offer a more tranquil experience.

If you want to avoid the busiest spots, take a look at our guide to the best hikes and viewpoints in the Dolomites for some great alternatives.

That said, there’s a reason why so many people visit Lago di Braies.

Its beauty and easy accessibility make it an obvious choice for many travellers.

If you can plan your visit in the low season (October to June), we’d definitely recommend it. You’ll enjoy a much calmer experience while still soaking up the magnificent nature.

Hiking around Lago di Braies

You can easily stroll the short distance to the shore for the iconic view, but we’d highly recommend taking the time to walk the full loop around Lago di Braies along the lakeside path.

The hike is both easy and beautiful.

The loop is roughly 3.5 kilometres long (~ 2.2 miles) and usually takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to complete.

If you’re travelling with children, plan to take breaks or want to stop for plenty of photos, it’s a good idea to set aside around two hours.

The path is mostly flat and well-maintained with a firm, gravel surface.

Along the way, you’ll cross wooden bridges, climb some stairs and navigate a few rocky patches. While parts of the trail can be uneven, it’s generally accessible for most people.

If you’re less confident on foot or have a pram, stick to the western side of the lake, which is flatter than the eastern shore.

Do bear in mind that sections of the path may be closed at times due to weather or natural conditions.

Boat trips on Lago di Braies

You’ve probably seen photos of wooden rowing boats gliding across the beautiful lake – it’s definitely one of the most popular things to do at Lago di Braies.

There are few places in the world where you can row over still, crystal-clear water framed by dramatic mountain scenery, and that’s exactly why these traditional wooden boats have become so iconic here.

Boat rentals are usually available from May to November at Altes Holzhaus Pragser Wildsee, but expect long queues during the high season. Sometimes up to two hours, we’ve heard.

Hiring a private boat for up to five people costs around 50 euros (~ 59 USD) for 45 minutes.

If you’re travelling in a smaller group and don’t mind sharing, you can book a shared boat for 15 euros per person (~ 18 USD) for the same 45 minutes. There’s still a maximum of five people per boat.

Children are welcome on all boat trips, but dogs are only allowed if you hire a private boat.

For up-to-date opening hours and prices, check the official website here.

Please note: Lago di Braies lies within the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Fanes-Sennes-Braies Nature Park. Bringing your own boats or stand-up paddleboards is strictly prohibited.

Our experiences at Lago di Braies

We’ve visited Lago di Braies twice, both times in autumn or early winter, well outside the high season.

The first visit was in early November 2020. We arrived early in the morning when hardly anyone was around, and it felt absolutely magical to see the clear, still water reflecting the surrounding mountains.

We took plenty of photos as the sun slowly rose, casting a gentle light over the landscape.

As the day brightened, more visitors started to arrive, but we’d already soaked up the peaceful atmosphere. Afterwards, we walked the entire loop around the lake, enjoying the quiet morning air.

Our second visit was at the end of October 2022, arriving late afternoon.

It was busier then, so we began by walking the lakeside path, discovering several quieter viewpoints where we could enjoy the scenery without the crowds.

By the time we returned to the boathouse around sunset, most visitors had left, allowing us to appreciate the beautiful light in peace.

We’d definitely recommend visiting outside the high season and setting your alarm to be among the first at the lake.

P.S. About an hour from Lago di Braies, you can hike to Tre Cime (The Three Peaks) and Cadini di Misurina – two fantastic hikes we’ve also written about.

See our guide to the best hikes and viewpoints in the Dolomites here.

Practical information about Lago di Braies

Opening hours

Lago di Braies is open all year round with no official opening hours, so you can visit the lake whenever you like.

That said, the opening times for boat rentals and restaurants vary depending on the season.

Boat hire is usually available from May to November, but hours can differ.

If you’re planning to take a boat trip or have lunch at one of the restaurants, we recommend checking the current opening times in advance.

Price

Visiting Lago di Braies is completely free!

Parking isn’t free, though. We’ll cover the details later in this Lago di Braies guide.

Toilets

There are public toilets at the parking lot P4, right by the lake. Please note there is a small fee to use them.

The eateries around Lago di Braies also have toilets, but these may come with a charge as well.

At the south-western end of the lake, there’s another public toilet, though we’re not entirely sure if it’s free or open all year round.

Food and drink

There are a few food and drink options at Lago di Braies, all run by Hotel Lago di Braies.

• Chalet Lago di Braies: Self-service with quick snacks, “fast food,” coffee and cake.
• Emma’s Bistro: Light South Tyrolean dishes with views over the lake.
• The Panorama Restaurant: À la carte menu serving South Tyrolean cuisine in elegant surroundings overlooking the lake.

Note that the restaurants usually open only around lunchtime, and hours may change with the seasons. Read more about the restaurants here.

You’re also welcome to bring your own food and drink. There are plenty of benches and spots to take a break around the lake – especially on the side opposite Hotel Lago di Braies, where it’s quieter.

Drone regulations

Flying drones at Lago di Braies is strictly prohibited.

The lake lies within the Fanes-Sennes-Braies Nature Park, and much of the surrounding land is private property.

While we would have loved to capture stunning aerial shots of the lake and mountains, the ban helps protect local wildlife and respects other visitors’ peace, and we actually think it is a good decision.

If you ignore this rule and fly a drone here, you risk facing a hefty fine.

Can you swim in Lago di Braies?

Unfortunately, swimming is not allowed in Lago di Braies.

This is partly to help preserve the lake’s pristine water quality and protect its delicate ecosystem.

Limiting activities like swimming helps maintain the natural balance and keeps the water clear and unpolluted for visitors to enjoy.

It also safeguards the local wildlife that depends on the lake and its surroundings.

So while the turquoise water may look tempting, it’s best to admire it from the shore and respect the park’s rules.

How to get to Lago di Braies

The easiest way to reach Lago di Braies is by car – we drove there ourselves both times.

It offers the most flexibility, especially if you want to arrive early or later in the day.

That said, be aware that from 10 July to 10 September, there are driving restrictions in place to limit traffic and visitor numbers in the Braies Valley during the high season (more on this later in the guide).

Driving time from towns in the Dolomites

Driving time to Lago di Braies naturally depends on where you’re coming from in the area, and it can vary quite a lot due to the long distances and winding mountain roads in the Dolomites.

Here are some approximate journey times from nearby towns and cities:

• Dobbiaco (Toblach): Around a 20-minute drive. The nearest larger town, roughly 15 kilometres (9.3 miles) away.
• Brunico (Bruneck): About 30 minutes’ drive. The largest nearby town, approximately 30 kilometres (18.6 miles) from the lake.
• Cortina d’Ampezzo (Hayden): Between 50 minutes and 1 hour’s drive. A popular Dolomites town about 50 kilometres (31 miles) away.
• Bressanone (Brixen): Around 1 hour 10 minutes by car. A historic town just over 60 kilometres (37.3 miles) from Lago di Braies.
• Val Gardena (Gröden): Between 1.5 and 2 hours’ drive, depending on whether you’re starting from Ortisei, Santa Cristina or Selva. The distance is roughly 90 to 100 kilometres (56 to 62 miles).
• Bolzano (Bozen): Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours by car. One of South Tyrol’s largest cities, about 100 kilometres (62 miles) from the lake.

Parking

Parking at Lago di Braies can be a bit of a challenge, especially in high season when restrictions apply – so it’s worth being prepared in advance.

There are several car parks near the lake:

• P2 is about 800 metres (0.5 miles) from the lake and costs 6 euros (~ 7 USD)* per day for standard cars. There are also charging stations for electric vehicles here.
• P3 is a bit closer, around 300 metres (a 2-3 minute walk) from the lake. A full day here costs 8 euros (~ 9.4 USD)*.
• P4 is the closest car park and also the most expensive. It costs 15 euros (~ 17.6 USD)* for three hours, though the first 15 minutes are free. Unsurprisingly, this is the most popular option.

Some car parks accept both credit cards and cash, but at least one is cash-only, so it’s a good idea to bring enough cash just in case.

*Prices were last updated in 2025 and apply to standard passenger vehicles.

P1 + shuttle bus

P1 is the car park furthest from Lago di Braies, located about 5.5 kilometres (3.4 miles) from the lake, so it’s quite a long walk if you decide to park here.

The car park is open from 6 in the morning to 8 in the evening and costs 7 euros (~ 8.2 USD)* for standard vehicles and 11 euros (~ 12.9 USD)* for motorhomes or caravans. The first 20 minutes are free.

A shuttle bus runs between P1 and the lake, priced at 5 euros (~ 5.9 USD)* per person each way. During the high season, it departs roughly every 30 minutes.

We haven’t been able to confirm whether it runs outside the high season – and if so, how often.

Reviews of P1 are mixed. Some find it practical during peak periods, while others are frustrated by the distance to the lake and the lack of clear information.

If you’re visiting outside the high season and have the option to park closer (such as at P2 or P3), we’d definitely recommend it.

As far as we know, only P4 and P1 can accommodate motorhomes, campervans or other taller vehicles.

*Prices were last updated in 2025.

Parking in high season (July to September)

Between 10 July and 10 September, driving to Lago di Braies is only permitted before 9:30 and after 16:00.

The road to the Braies Valley is closed to private traffic during the day.

That said, you can pre-book parking at car park P1 (the one furthest from the lake) and take a shuttle bus from there. This guarantees you a space and access during restricted hours.

The shuttle bus runs every 30 minutes, with the first departure at 9:10 and the last at 17:25. Be prepared for queues, especially in the morning.

Certain dates in April and May are also busy, so it may be worth booking a parking spot and using the shuttle service on those days as well.

You can see specific dates and find more information about parking here.

The car parks P2, P3 and P4 seen from above. P1 is located further east, near the village of Ferrara.

Public transport

Although we drove both times, it’s perfectly possible to reach Lago di Braies by public transport – especially during the summer months, when driving restrictions apply in the Braies Valley (from 10 July to 10 September).

If you’re coming from Dobbiaco (Toblach in German) or Villabassa (Niederdorf), you can take bus 442, which goes directly to the lake. The journey takes about 30 minutes and runs several times a day.

If you’re coming from further afield, for example from Bolzano, you can take the train to Dobbiaco/Toblach and continue by bus from there.

Travelling from Venice, the easiest route is to take a train or long-distance bus to Cortina d’Ampezzo, then continue by bus to Dobbiaco/Toblach and finally take bus 442. It’s not the fastest journey, but it’s doable.

You can use various transport cards, such as the Mobilcard or Südtirol Pass, on the bus.

Normally, no reservation is required – though in high season, it’s worth checking in advance just to be safe.

Plan your route and check connections here.

When to visit Lago di Braies

The best time to visit Lago di Braies really depends on what you’re hoping to experience and how many people you’re willing to share it with.

Here, we break down the differences between the seasons and times of day.

Seasons

Spring (April to June)

Spring brings a calmer atmosphere to Lago di Braies, with noticeably fewer visitors. It’s a lovely time of year, as nature begins to wake up and the snow slowly melts.

That said, the weather can be a bit unpredictable, and in some years the lake is still partly frozen in April.

The boathouse usually doesn’t open until May, so renting a boat early in the season isn’t always possible.

Overall, spring is a great time to visit if you’re looking to avoid the crowds – just be sure to check the forecast and current conditions before you go.

Summer (July to September)

In summer, Lago di Braies is at its most spectacular.

The water is crystal clear, mirror-like and deep turquoise, and everything is in full swing – from boat rentals and restaurants to shuttle buses.

It’s also the busiest time of year. July and August in particular draw large crowds.

To help manage traffic, the Braies Valley is closed to private vehicles between 9:30 and 16:00 from 10 July to 10 September.

If you’d like to experience the lake in slightly quieter surroundings, we recommend arriving early in the morning (sunrise is best) or later in the afternoon, once most visitors have left.

Autumn (October and November)

We’ve visited Lago di Braies in the autumn ourselves and can definitely recommend it if you’re after a quieter experience than during the busy summer months.

Nature shifts into warm, golden tones, and with a bit of luck, you might still catch some mild temperatures.

On the downside, the boat rental and some of the restaurants begin to close for the season, and the days are shorter. The sun also dips behind the mountains earlier in the afternoon.

Winter (December to March)

Visiting Lago di Braies in winter offers a completely different experience, with snow-covered landscapes and a lake that’s often frozen.

It’s a magical time to see the area, and the quiet is part of the charm, as far fewer people come in the colder months.

That said, the weather can be very cold, and it can get slippery around the lake. Some paths may be closed, so it’s important to check local conditions in advance.

Not all facilities are open in winter either, so a bit more planning is needed.

Snow usually arrives in early December, though it can come earlier if temperatures drop enough.

Time of day

No matter the season, Lago di Braies is always busiest during the middle of the day.

If you want to avoid the large crowds, find parking more easily and catch the best light, the ideal time to visit is either early in the morning or later in the afternoon.

With a bit of luck, you might even see mist drifting across the lake in a quiet, magical way.

Just keep in mind that the sun sets earlier at Lago di Braies than “official” sunset times suggest, as it disappears behind the mountains before dipping below the horizon.

How long to spend at Lago di Braies

How long you spend at Lago di Braies depends entirely on what you want to do.

If you just want to admire the view and snap a few photos, 30 minutes to 1 hour is plenty.

If you plan to walk the loop around the lake (which we definitely recommend!), allow around 2 to 2.5 hours in total.

The lakeside walk itself usually takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

If you want to hire a rowing boat, the rental lasts 45 minutes, plus you’ll need to factor in any waiting time.

This can vary greatly depending on the season and time of day. During high season, queues can sometimes stretch to 1.5 or even 2 hours if you’re unlucky.

If you’re bringing a picnic or planning to eat lunch at one of the restaurants by the lake, be sure to set aside time for that as well.

For those keen on hiking further, there are several longer routes starting from Lago di Braies, so you could easily spend a whole day exploring the area.

Finally, don’t forget to allow time for the walk to and from your car park, which depends on where you end up parking.

Where to stay near Lago di Braies

Places in the Dolomites can be quite spread out, so if you want to avoid long drives to Lago di Braies, it’s worth choosing your accommodation carefully.

A great way to enjoy the lake is to stay at hotels right by Lago di Braies – or close by, so you can easily reach it by car.

If you’re keen to explore more hikes and viewpoints in the area, it might be wise to base yourself somewhere more central or even change hotels along the way to be closer to different experiences in the mountains.

Below, we’ve suggested a few hotels at Lago di Braies and nearby towns that are worth considering.

You can also search for the best hotels near Lago di Braies here (adlink).

Hotel Lago di Braies

If you want to stay right by the lake and wake up to those stunning views, Hotel Lago di Braies is the obvious choice.

It’s the only hotel located on the shores of this beautiful lake, and we imagine the atmosphere must be especially peaceful early in the morning or late at night, once the day-trippers have left.

The hotel has historic charm and is perfectly placed for both hiking adventures and relaxing by the water.

Do keep in mind, though, that it’s very popular and has limited rooms, so you’ll need to book well in advance to secure a stay here.

See prices and availability at Hotel Lago di Braies (adlink).

Hotel Trenker

Hotel Trenker is one of the most luxurious options near Lago di Braies.

This 4-star hotel is just 2 kilometres away from the lake (about a 4-minute drive) and offers an elegant, relaxed atmosphere exclusively for guests aged 18 and over.

Breakfast is included, and after a day outdoors, you can unwind in the spa or enjoy a swim in the indoor pool.

It’s a wonderful choice if you’re looking for comfort and tranquillity close to the Dolomites’ most famous lake.

See prices and availability at Hotel Trenker (adlink).

Towns in the area

If you choose to stay in one of the larger towns, you’ll find good hotels, restaurants and convenient transport links to Lago di Braies and other parts of the Dolomites.

Here are some of the bigger towns closer to Lago di Braies:

Adlinks
• Dobbiaco (Toblach): Not a particularly large town, but it’s the closest larger town to Lago di Braies with several hotels. It is located about 15 kilometres (9.3 miles) away – roughly a 20-minute drive. From here, bus 442 runs directly to Lago di Braies.
• Brunico (Bruneck): The largest town near Lago di Braies, around 30 kilometres (18.6 miles) away – approximately a 30-minute drive – making it a good base for exploring the area.
• Cortina d’Ampezzo (Hayden): One of the most popular and lively towns in the Dolomites, well placed for a wide range of hikes and cable cars. It’s about 50 kilometres (31 miles) from the lake, roughly a 50-minute to 1-hour drive.
• Bressanone (Brixen): A historic town with a beautiful old quarter, also well located for several hikes. It lies just over 60 kilometres (37.3 miles) from Lago di Braies – about a 1 hour 10-minute drive.
• Val Gardena (Gröden): The towns of Ortisei, Santa Cristina and Selva are 90 to 100 kilometres (56 to 62 miles) from Lago di Braies, taking approximately 1.5 to 2 hours by car. They’re also well-positioned for visiting Seceda and Alpe di Siusi/Seiser Alm.
• Bolzano (Bozen): One of South Tyrol’s largest cities and a great starting point for exploring the Dolomites. It’s about 100 kilometres (62 miles) to Lago di Braies, roughly a 1 hour 45 minutes to 2-hour drive.

Our best tips for Lago di Braies

• Manage your expectations. Lago di Braies attracts a lot of visitors, so you’ll be sharing the experience with plenty of other tourists.
• Think about the season you visit the lake – during high season, traffic restrictions apply.
• Arrive early or late in the day for a quieter experience away from the crowds. Preferably before sunrise or late afternoon before sunset.
• The sun rises late and sets early. Because of the surrounding mountains, daylight hours feel shorter than the official times.
• Bring a good camera. Lago di Braies is beautiful! Here is a guide to the gear we use.
• Be prepared for changing weather. Conditions can shift quickly in the mountains. Always plan accordingly.
• Bring several layers of clothing if you expect to spend a long time at Lago di Braies.
• Wear sneakers, hiking shoes or other comfortable footwear if you plan to walk around the lake.
• Bring food, drink and snacks to enjoy along the way with a great view.
• Use sunscreen and other sun protection if you visit during summer.
• Carry cash for parking in case the machines don’t work or the car park only accepts cash.

Sustainable travel tips

To travel as sustainably as possible, we recommend the following:

• Bring your own drinking water in a refillable bottle.
• Avoid disposable plastics.
• Dispose of waste properly and don’t leave anything behind.
• Take only photos and leave only footprints. Avoid picking flowers or taking anything from nature with you.
• Stick to the marked trails.
• Show consideration towards other visitors.
• Respect the local wildlife.
• Don’t swim in Lago di Braies.
• Leave the drone at home. Flying is not permitted in the nature park.

Thank you for reading along

Thank you for reading our travel guide to Lago di Braies. We hope you found it useful!

What are your thoughts on this stunning lake in the Dolomites?

If you’ve already visited Lago di Braies, we’d love to hear your best tips and experiences in the comments.

And if you haven’t been yet, don’t hesitate to ask us any questions. We’re happy to help.