17 Spectacular Passes Through the Alps and Dolomites | CarVia

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There are few mountain ranges worldwide with passes that can rival those of the Alps and the Dolomites. In addition, stunning views and fantastic hairpin turns that will put a smile on anyone's face await you just around the corner. In this road trip recommendation, we take you on a journey through the most beautiful Alpine and Dolomite passes.

If all you need now is the perfect car, we have the solution for you. With one of our rental cars, you'll be perfectly equipped for the upcoming adventure. It doesn't matter whether you grab one of our more affordable compact cars, opt for a super sports car like the Porsche GT3 RS, or take the roof off with one of our convertibles.

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Dolomites & Alps: The Most Beautiful Passes in 3 Days

Before we get into the details, here are a few key facts: The route we’ve planned is approximately 950 kilometers long, meaning you’ll be on the road for about 3 to 4 days. This is a round trip, starting and ending at our Rental Hub, which makes planning much easier compared to our one-way road trips. Of course, if you're traveling with your own car or motorcycle, this won’t make much of a difference for you.

Your journey begins in Munich. On the first day, you'll cross three scenic mountain passes on your way to Merano. The next day, you’ll drive through the breathtaking Dolomites to reach Cortina d’Ampezzo, and on the final day, you’ll return to Munich via the iconic Grossglockner High Alpine Road.

To ensure you don’t get lost – or to allow you to venture off on your own little adventures without losing sight of the main route – we’ve mapped out the exact route for you on Google Maps. You’ll find links to each day’s route in the respective section. Keep in mind that many of these mountain passes are closed during the winter months, so Google Maps may not always be able to calculate the route. But as soon as the ice and snow melt in spring or summer, the roads will be accessible again.

For each night, we recommend a high-quality hotel where you can unwind in style. We also make an effort to select accommodations with good parking options so that your car– whether it’s your own or a rental – can always be stored safely.

But enough with the logistics – let’s dive into the adventure!

Crossing the Timmelsjoch to Merano: Mountain Passes Galore

Setting Off from Munich: Kesselberg and Hahntennjoch

Your journey begins in Munich, where you’ll receive a short introduction to your rental car from our Rental Agents. Once you're behind the wheel, start the engine and follow today’s route on Google Maps. If you’re not in a rush to head straight to Austria’s Plansee, consider a scenic detour via Lake Kochel. This gives you a chance to get familiar with the car as you wind your way down the Kesselberg Pass towards Lake Walchen.

Your first real stop comes after passing Garmisch-Partenkirchen, at the stunning Plansee beneath the Ammergebirge. From there, the road takes you across the Hahntennjoch, the first high mountain pass of the trip, leading into the Ötztal Valley. Then, it’s time to head south toward the Timmelsjoch. Hold on tight – the countless hairpin turns and breathtaking views will bring out the inner Schumacher in every driver.

Curve after curve, you’ll carve your way through the alpine roads until you finally arrive in the picturesque town of Merano in South Tyrol. For your overnight stay, we’ve selected four top-notch hotels: Villa Eden, Hotel Chalet Mirabell, Miramonti Boutique Hotel, and Hotel Gnaid. Each one is exceptional, offering everything from gourmet dining and luxurious beds to outstanding spa facilities.

Alternative Routes: Stelvio Pass, Brenner Pass & Penser Joch

If you're looking for a different route on your first day, consider taking the Stelvio Pass. Some would argue that it's even more breathtaking than the Timmelsjoch. However, traffic conditions can be rough, and we wouldn’t want to send you straight into a frustrating queue of cars and motorcycles.

For those already familiar with the Timmelsjoch, we recommend trying either the old Brenner Pass or the Penser Joch (also known as the Jaufen Pass). There’s no wrong choice here – every route offers a fresh perspective on the stunning beauty of the Alps. Just make sure to pause at the scenic viewpoints along the way. Take in the vast green valleys, towering white peaks, and roaring mountain streams before hitting the road again.

Conquer the Dolomite Passes: On to Cortina d’Ampezzo

Between Limestone and Dolomite…

...that’s where you’ll find yourself today. After tackling the Alps yesterday, you’ll be conquering five incredible mountain passes in the Dolomites.

This mountain range is home to some of the most thrilling roads in Europe – if not the world. Your route includes the Gampen Pass, Mendel Pass, Passo di Lavazé, Passo San Pellegrino, and Passo Giau. To make sure you don’t lose track at over 2,000 meters above sea level, you’ll find the detailed route here. Though the total distance is "only" 200 kilometers, expect to spend around four and a half hours on the road – assuming traffic is on your side. Then again, the goal was never to get there quickly, was it?

With a full tank, you’re ready to dive into the action. Depending on the season, even the lesser-known passes can get quite busy, but don’t let that spoil the experience. Embrace the weather, the breathtaking views, and the exhilarating curves as you wind your way up the mountain switchbacks.

Cortina d’Ampezzo: A Valley at 1,200 Meters

They say you shouldn’t celebrate too soon, but this evening will be an exception. Awaiting you is the picturesque Italian alpine town of Cortina d’Ampezzo, nestled at 1,200 meters.

Park your roaring sports car, hand over your keys to the valet, and take a deep breath. After a long day on the road, filled with adrenaline and awe-inspiring scenery, it’s time to unwind. Check into your luxurious spa retreat, where you’ll enjoy a stunning view of the landscapes you just conquered. The Cristallo Luxury Collection Hotel is undoubtedly the finest in town.

Relax on the terrace with the last warm rays of sunshine or treat your body to some well-deserved recovery in the fitness and wellness area. As the day winds down, enjoy a delicious dinner with a view of the Tofane – one of the most striking mountain formations in the Dolomites. And of course, a glass of fine wine is the perfect way to end the night.

Grand Finale: The Großglockner High Alpine Road to Munich

Back to the Alps: Ciao, Bella Italia!

It’s the final day of your epic road trip. As you peel yourself out of bed, the sun shines through your window, promising perfect weather for this spectacular finale. Departing from Cortina d’Ampezzo, you’ll be heading north once again.

Leaving the Dolomites, you’ll cross back into the Austrian Alps via the Staller Saddle, which quickly lifts you over 1,000 meters in altitude. Keep in mind that this pass is closed in winter, so if you’re traveling off-season, Google Maps will likely reroute you.

After passing through Lienz, where you can stop for a well-deserved lunch, the ultimate highlight of your journey awaits: the Großglockner High Alpine Road. This legendary mountain pass stretches for 48 kilometers of thrilling curves and climbs to a breathtaking altitude of 2,504 meters. Feel the power of your sports car as you accelerate through the tight switchbacks, all while taking in the jaw-dropping alpine views.

To ensure you stay on track, you’ll find the detailed route on Google Maps via the link. But don’t worry – you’re free to make detours or ignore our tips. Many of them are optional suggestions based on our experiences. And if you take a wrong turn? Google Maps will get you back on course in no time.

Almost Home: Through Kitzbühel and Zell am See

As you continue through Austria, you’ll pass Zell am See and the exclusive ski resort town of Kitzbühel before heading back toward Germany. If you’re in the mood for one last stop, indulge in some luxury shopping or fine dining before continuing.

More winding roads await you before you reach Rosenheim, where you’ll merge onto a section of the A8 Autobahn – with no speed limit. The perfect way to wrap up your driving adventure!

If you rented your car from us, our Rental Agents in Munich will be eager to hear all about your experiences when you return. We hope this extended weekend will stay with you for years to come – road trips tend to have that effect!

More Alpine Passes: From F to U

While we’ve highlighted some of the most scenic and legendary passes, there are many more worth exploring. Here are a few additional breathtaking routes:

Flexenpass

Connecting Vorarlberg and Tyrol, this 1,773-meter pass is known for its dramatic tunnels carved into the rock to protect against avalanches. A key connection between Lech and Zürs, it's a must-drive in the Arlberg region.

Gerlospass

At 1,531 meters, this pass links Salzburg and Tyrol via the Gerlos Alpine Road, offering stunning views of the Krimml Waterfalls, one of Europe’s tallest waterfalls.

Reschenpass

Sitting at 1,507 meters, this pass connects Austria and Italy. It’s famous for the submerged bell tower in Lake Reschen, one of the most photographed sights in the Alps.

Silvrettapass

Also known as the Silvretta High Alpine Road, this 2,037-meter pass winds through Montafon in Vorarlberg and Paznaun in Tyrol, offering countless hairpin bends and jaw-dropping scenery. It leads by the Silvretta Lake, a dam lake surrounded by majestic summits.

Umbrailpass

At 2,503 meters, this is Switzerland’s highest paved mountain pass, linking the Münstertal valley with Italy’s Vinschgau region, near the Stelvio Pass. Expect narrow, winding roads and panoramic views.

We hope this journey sparked your wanderlust and got you excited to hit the road as soon as the snow melts. If this adventure inspired you, take a look at our fleet of rental cars – maybe one of them is just the perfect fit for your next mountain getaway. Whether it’s a Porsche 911 or a BMW M2, there’s no better way to experience the thrill of the Alps in style.