The Marmolada Glacier is the highest mountain massif in the Italian Dolomites, often called the “Queen of the Dolomites.” It’s the only glacier in the region and offers breathtaking panoramic views and a unique blend of nature and history. The Marmolada itself isn’t just one peak – the name refers to the entire ridge of peaks over 3,000 meters high, with Punta Penia (3,343 m) as the highest summit.
If you want 360° panoramic views of the highest peaks of the Dolomites and the beautiful landscapes of northern Italy, there’s no better place than the Marmolada. It is also one of the places that are part of the Dolomites UNESCO World Heritage Site.
This guide is for you if you want to:
- Visit the Marmolada Glacier, the highest peak in the Dolomites
- Take the cable car and enjoy breathtaking alpine views
- Know how to get there and plan your visit
- Explore viewpoints, hikes & glacier experiences
- Make the most of your Dolomites itinerary
Scroll down for the complete Marmolada travel guide.
In this blog post, I’ll share how to visit the Marmolada Glacier, what to expect at each cable car station, and how to fit this destination into your Dolomites itinerary.
Please note, this post may contain affiliate links.
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How to Reach the Marmolada Glacier
The Marmolada Glacier is easy to visit thanks to its modern cable car system. From Malga Ciapèla, cable cars carry visitors from 1,450 m up to 3,265 m in just a few minutes making it possible to go from sunny valleys to snow-covered peaks even in summer!
Distances from major Dolomites towns:
Cortina d’Ampezzo → Malga Ciapèla: 45 km / approx. 1h 10 min
Corvara in Badia → Malga Ciapèla: 35 km / approx. 50 min
Ortisei → Malga Ciapèla: 50 km / approx. 1h 15 min
Parking: A large paid parking lot is available at the lower station. There’s also a nearby campground, ideal for campervans.
You can only pay by card at the parking machines. Cash payment is possible at the lift ticket office.
Marmolada Cable Car – Tickets & Useful Info
Address of the cable car: Malga Ciapèla 48, 32023 Rocca Pietore
The Marmolada Glacier cable car operates in three stages:
Malga Ciapèla → Coston d’Antermoja (2,350 m)
Coston d’Antermoja → Serauta (2,950 m)
Serauta → Punta Rocca (3,265 m)
Journey time: approx. 12 minutes total.
Ticket prices (2026 winter season): prices for the 2026 summer season coming soon
Adults: €38 (round trip)
Children (under 16): €22
Children under 6 ride free.
Opening months:
Summer: early June to late September
Winter season: December to April
At the 2nd and 3rd stations: you’ll find restrooms, souvenir shops, a restaurant, and panoramic terraces.
Allow at least 2-3 hours if you want to see all the sights and walk around the glacier. There’s no time limit, you can look around at each stop and wait for the crowds to disperse.
Tip: Dress warmly, even in summer temperatures are low at the top (around 5°C in early June). Good hiking shoes are recommended for walking on the glacier.
Download my free Dolomites bucket list for your next adventure
Marmolada Cable Car Stations & Highlights
Lower Station – Malga Ciapèla (1,450 m)
Here you’ll find the ticket office, the parking lot, and a small café.
1st Stop – Coston d’Antermoja (2,350 m)
No exit here – you’ll transfer directly to the next cable car to continue towards the Marmolada Glacier.
2nd Stop – Serauta (2,950 m)
At this level, enjoy your first sweeping views and explore:
A panoramic restaurant and gift shop
Europe’s highest World War I museum (entry included with your ticket)
Outdoor terraces for snowy photo stops
The Museo Marmolada Grande Guerra showcases soldiers’ lives during the First World War, with photos, films, and artifacts recovered from the glacier itself. Informative exhibits are available in multiple languages, including English.
From Serauta, you can also join guided glacier hikes (with proper gear).
3rd Stop - 360° Panoramic Terrace
3rd Stop – Punta Rocca (3,265 m)
At the highest station:
Step onto a 360° panoramic terrace — one of the most spectacular viewpoints in the Dolomites.
Visit the small Madonna Cave chapel (Grotta della Madonna), blessed by Pope John Paul II in 1979.
Learn about the history of the cable car in a small exhibition.
In summer and winter alike, you can walk directly on the glacier from this station. In winter, this is also the starting point of the famous 12 km La Bellunese ski slope.
A Bit of History – Marmolada Cable Car
The Marmolada Glacier was once accessible only to climbers until the cable car opened in 1967, thanks to local visionaries and the Vascellari family, who still operate it today. The lifts are constantly modernized to ensure a safe and comfortable journey to the “Queen of the Dolomites.”
Building the lift was no easy task at all, due to the bad weather and terrain conditions. Finally, on 30 July 1967, the first cabins were launched.
Explore more Dolomites travel tips on my blog – Check it Now
Where to Stay Near Marmolada Glacier
If you’re planning to explore the Marmolada Glacier, here are some cozy, well-located accommodation options to consider near the Marmolada.
I personally recommend staying near Malga Ciapela for the convenience of early morning visits, but for a more scenic experience, consider Alleghe or Rocca Pietore.
Hotel Tyrol – Malga Ciapela
Stay just steps from the cable car at this charming alpine hotel, ideal for early starts and quiet evenings in the mountains.
Check prices and availabilityHotel La Montanina – Alleghe
Relax lakeside after your glacier adventure at this peaceful, family-run hotel near Lago di Alleghe.
See hotel detailsAlbergo Genzianella – Rocca Pietore
A traditional Ladin-style guesthouse offering mountain views, local cuisine, and easy access to Marmolada.
Book your stay here
We visited the Marmolada Glacier during our stay in the Gardena Valley, which is about a 1-hour drive. It makes a great half-day activity, especially if you’re looking for a more relaxing day between longer hikes.
Car rental – Tip
Search and book a car on one of the popular search portals and find the best deal for you!
One of my favorite search sites is Discovercars.com, because there are no hidden costs, you can cancel the reservation for free if your travel plans change, and last but not least, they offer rental cars at very reasonable prices. The filters allow you to select the type of card you want to use, the amount of the deposit and the payment terms.
Final Tips – Is the Marmolada Glacier Worth Visiting?
Visiting the Marmolada Glacier is one of the top scenic experiences in the Dolomites — combining stunning views, history, and the thrill of reaching 3,000+ meters without technical hiking. Whether it’s your first glacier visit or just a relaxed day in your itinerary, the panoramic terraces, snowy walks, and historical exhibits make it a must-see for all ages.
Don’t miss the chance to stand on the Queen of the Dolomites and admire some of Northern Italy’s most incredible landscapes.
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Need help planning your trip?
Here are my favourite sites to use when planning my trips:
Find your flight: Kiwi or use the airline’s direct website
Book your Hotel: Booking.com and Airbnb
Search for a rental car: Discovercars
Stay Connected Anywhere: Airalo eSIM
Book an unforgettable experiences: GetYourGuide website.
Source: Wandering Linda and https://www.funiviemarmolada.com/en/home/
Photos: Wandering Linda
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