Lake Braies (Lago di Braies) is one of the most beautiful lakes in the Italian Dolomites, famous for its turquoise water, dramatic mountain backdrop, and easy walking trail. Whether you’re visiting as a quick day trip or adding it to a Dolomites itinerary, this guide covers how to get there, parking rules, walking trails, boat rentals, food options, and the best time to visit.

 

I visited Lake Braies on a whim. I had little expectations, seeking nothing more than a mellow day trip to give the legs a reprieve whilst hiking throughout the Dolomites. Needless to say, my naive little mind was blown. Aquamarine water, looming mountain peaks, and a whimsical little dreamscape – Lake Braies quickly embedded itself as one of the most incredible vistas I’d encountered. I’d heard it’s a tourist magnet in the summer months, and whilst true, I found the crowds mostly stuck to the entrance. Once we set off along the trail around the lake, the fellow travellers thinned out, and we had plenty of space to bask in all the natural glory.

If you’re planning a day trip to Lake Braies, this post covers everything you need to know: how to get there, parking, trails, food options, and some hot tips for getting the most bang for your buck.

Lake Braies at a Glance

• Location: Dolomites, northern Italy

• Also called: Lago di Braies

• Best for: Easy hiking, photography, families

• Trail length: ~3.5 km loop

• Time needed: 1–3 hours

• Entrance fee: None

• Parking: Paid (varies by lot and season)

How to Get to Lake Braies & Where to Park

Lake Braies sits in the Dolomites in northern Italy, about 2 hours from Bolzano and 1.5 hours from Cortina d’Ampezzo. You can get there by car, which is the easiest option, or combine trains and buses if you’re relying on public transport.

Parking can be a bit tricky, especially in peak season. Here’s a breakdown of the main options:

Parking Lots:

• P1: Small and closest to the lake entrance, usually fills up quickly in summer.
• P2: About a 10-minute walk from the lake. We parked here and it only cost €7, by far the cheapest option.
• P3 & P4: Right next to the lake. Very convenient but more expensive and often crowded.
• Overflow / Seasonal Lots: During peak months, additional parking areas are set up further away, with shuttle buses to the lake.

Shuttle Buses:

• From nearby towns like Braies village, shuttle buses run during the summer and on weekends.
• Tickets are inexpensive and drop you close to the lake entrance.
• Useful if you’re travelling without a car or visiting during a busy weekend.

Tip: Arrive early in the morning if possible to secure a parking spot and enjoy the lake before it gets busy. Even if you park at P2, the 10-minute walk gives a gentle intro to the scenery and spreads out visitors along the trail.

First Impressions

When you first see the lake, it’s easy to understand why it’s a must-do on everyone’s Dolomiti itinerary. The water is a distinct turquoise, the mountain peaks create a picturesque amphitheatre, and the quaint little boathouse looks like something out of a fairytale. Most people gather around the entrance, taking photos in front of the boathouse, and securing the iconic instagram shot. It’s a beautiful spot, but if you’re willing to walk the full trail around the lake, you’ll discover loads more incredible viewpoints without the swarms of crowds.

Walking Around the Lake

The trail around Lake Braies is about 3.5 km (roughly 2.2 miles) and mostly flat. It’s an easy walk and takes around 1–1.5 hours at a leisurely pace, depending on how often you stop for photos or just to take in the view.

Highlights along the trail:

• Views of the lake: Every turn on the trail reveals a slightly different view of the lake and mountains.
• Quiet spots: Once you leave the main entrance area, you’ll have stretches with almost no one around.
• Picnic areas: At the opposite end of the lake, you’ll find picnic tables under the shade and large stretches of shoreline to laze on.
• At the far end of the lake, we came across a few cows grazing in the forest; a whimsical little Italian countryside moment.

For anyone interested in photography, there’s a mix of options. The boathouse is the classic shot, but the trail offers quieter corners and more natural framing without the crowds.

Where to Eat Near Lake Braies (Restaurants & Picnics)

The restaurants around the lake are lovely, but quite pricey. We were on a backpacker budget, so we stopped at a supermarket on the way and stocked up on some bread, cheese and charcuterie.

We found a quiet spot beside the lake to perch up and have a picnic. Cost aside, I highly recommend this option for making the most of your time out in nature. Plus, it’s a good opportunity to feast on as much quality local Italian produce as possible! If you’re interested in more budget-friendly ways to eat while traveling in Italy, you might like my post on travelling Morocco on a budget – the same principles apply when exploring Europe.

Tip: Pack a small picnic blanket and plenty of water. There are plenty of spots along the trail to stop and enjoy a snack.

Boat Rentals at Lake Braies: What to Know

Traditional wooden rowboats are available for rent for 30 minutes to an hour. These didn’t fit within our budget, but found plenty of entertainment watching the hapless instagram-boyfriend paddling out and struggling to get the perfect shot of his lucky lady.

If you do decide to rent a boat, it’s worth considering:

• You can’t book in advance. You must head to the boathouse and enquire in person.
• Rental costs vary depending on the season, but sit around €15 for 30 minutes and €28 for an hour. 
• Operations are typically from 10am to 5pm, but this can change based on weather and other factors.
• Get there early to avoid waiting.

For those who prefer walking and staying on land, the trail around the lake is more than enough to fill a day.

Best Photo Spots at Lake Braies

Many photographers aim for sunrise or golden hour for the perfect shot, and I’m sure they’re rewarded. But honestly, Lago di Braiesis stunning in any light. Even on a slightly cloudy day, the water’s colour pops, and the mountains reflect beautifully.

Some practical tips:

• Walk the full loop for different angles.
• Try framing shots with trees or rocks in the foreground.
• Early mornings or late afternoons are quieter if you prefer fewer people in photos.

For more dreamy photo ops, check out my selection of the best sunset locations in Tamraght, Morocco.

Hiking Near Lake Braies: Viewpoints & Side Trails

While the main loop around the lake is easy and flat, there are a few short side trails that reward you with higher viewpoints and quieter spots. We didn’t do anything too challenging, but if you enjoy a little extra walking, here are some options:

• Croda del Becco Viewpoint: About 30-40 minutes from the lake, this short hike gives you panoramic views of the surrounding Dolomites.
• Forest trails: Smaller paths branch off the main loop and wind through pine forests. These are perfect if you want a bit of solitude.

A few things to keep in mind:

• Wear sturdy shoes if you plan to explore these trails – some parts can be uneven or muddy.
• Bring water and a hat, especially if hiking in summer heat.
• Stick to marked paths to protect the local environment.

The Best Time to Visit Lake Braies

Lake Braies or Lago di Braies can be visited year-round, but the experience varies dramatically by season.

Summer (June–September): Peak season with the bluest water — but also the largest crowds. Parking restrictions and shuttle systems are often in place.

Spring (April–May): Fewer crowds, but lingering snow and colder temperatures. The lake may still be partially frozen early in spring.

Autumn (October): Quieter, cooler, and beautiful fall colors — but limited services and shorter daylight hours.

Winter: A frozen fairytale landscape, best for snowshoeing and photography rather than walking the full loop.

If possible, visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon, regardless of season, for fewer crowds and softer light.

Practical Tips for a Stress-Free Visit

Visiting Lake Braies is pretty straightforward, but a few tips can make your day smoother:

• Timing: Early morning or late afternoon is ideal for smaller crowds, especially in summer. Midday is busier, but as we found, the trail around the lake spreads people out.
• What to pack: Comfortable shoes, layers (the weather can change quickly in the mountains), water, snacks or picnic supplies, sunscreen, and a camera.
• Respect the environment: Take your rubbish with you, stay on trails, and don’t feed wildlife. Even the cows we came across are best admired from a distance.
• Accessibility: The main trail is mostly flat, so it’s suitable for most visitors. Some side trails and viewpoints are uneven, so check ahead if you have mobility concerns.

The lake doesn’t demand that you rush. Take your time, go for an aimless wander, and you’ll be rewarded with stunning scenery and a peaceful day.

Final Musings

From my experience, Lake Braies is perfect for:

• Families looking for an easy and scenic day trip.
• Hikers seeking a lay-day from the strenuous peaks of the Dolomites.
• Couples wanting their whimsical storybook moment.
  Backpackers or anyone on a budget. There is no entrance fee to the lake, so our entire visit cost €7 (plus picnic paraphernalia).

Whether you’re a keen photographer, looking for a leisurely hike, or seeking a mellow laze by the water, Lake Braies makes for an incredible day trip. So pack your walking shoes, grab some snacks, and let yourself immerse in this wonderland.

By Jessie from Daytrips