How to get to Ortisei: traffic, limited traffic zones, and parking
Ortisei is a fairytale village located in the heart of Val Gardena, surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Dolomites and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Famous for its woodcarving traditions and direct access to the meadows of Alpe di Siusi, it is an appealing option for a weekend focused on nature and outdoor activities. To help you plan your trip through the Dolomite passes in the best possible way, we’ve put together some guidance on how to get to Ortisei and where to park, so you can better manage the logistical side of your journey.
General traffic and ZTL zones in Ortisei
Traffic in Ortisei is strongly focused on sustainability and landscape protection. The historic center is one of the longest and most charming pedestrian areas in the Dolomites: it connects the Sant’Antonio area with the main square.
During high season – particularly the month of August, the Christmas period, and the ski season from December to March traffic along the Val Gardena state road can be heavy, especially during lift opening and closing times.
However, the town is perfectly connected by escalators and underground tunnels with moving walkways (such as the famous “La Curta”), which make it easier to move between the lower area and the lift stations. In winter, using ski buses is the smartest choice to avoid traffic stress and quickly reach the slopes of the Dolomiti Superski area.
How to get to Ortisei, parking and other useful info
To reach Ortisei by car, you take the A22 Brenner motorway, exiting at the Chiusa/Val Gardena toll booth. From there, follow the SS242 state road for about 20 minutes, driving up the valley between forests and rock faces. As with all Alpine destinations, winter equipment (winter tires or chains) is mandatory in winter.
Those who prefer the train can get off at the Bolzano or Bressanone stations, where high-speed trains stop. From both cities, hourly local buses depart and go directly to the center of Ortisei. For those staying in local accommodations, the “Val Gardena Mobil Card” is often provided, allowing free use of all local public transport.
Finally, for those traveling by plane, the closest airport is Bolzano, followed by Verona and Treviso Renting a car at these airports is the most practical solution for those who want to combine a visit to Ortisei with a tour of nearby areas, such as Alpe di Siusi or Val di Funes, ensuring maximum freedom of movement outside public transport schedules.
The advantage of traveling by car is the possibility of independently exploring the other villages in the valley or heading toward the most beautiful mountain passes.
If you arrive by car and are looking for parking in Ortisei, we recommend these options located in strategic positions relative to the center and the lift facilities:
• Central Parking: located right under the main square, it is the most convenient for those who want to walk among luxury boutiques, visit the Gherdëina Museum, or enjoy an apple strudel in one of the historic pastry shops along the main street;
• Seceda Cable Car Parking: ideal for hikers and skiers. From here you can head up toward the Odle group, one of the most photographed landscapes in the world;
• Alpe di Siusi Parking: located near the gondola departure station that leads to the largest high-altitude plateau in Europe. It is perfect for those looking for a relaxing day among mountain huts or winter snowshoe excursions;
• Antonius Parking: an excellent slightly more out-of-the-way alternative, but directly connected to the underground pedestrian system leading toward the heart of the village.
Using park-and-ride parking areas is especially recommended during the summer months, when surface parking spaces fill up quickly from the early morning hours.
