How to Visit Lago di Braies (Pragser Wildsee): Everything You Need to Know in 2025
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Lago di Braies - also known as Pragser Wildsee - needs no introduction. Tucked into the heart of the Dolomites, this iconic alpine lake has captured hearts for years with its vibrant turquoise waters, jagged mountain backdrop and ultra-charming wooden rowboats.
Yes, it's also extremely Instagram famous. But for a good reason...
As someone who recently moved to northern Italy, I can honestly say that this popular alpine lake is anything but overrated! It's one of those jaw-dropping locations that draws tons of crowds each year, and is still 100% worth a visit on your trip to the Dolomites.
Curious how to make the most of your visit to Pragser Wildsee, and hoping to avoid those summer crowds? This guide has you covered! Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Lago di Braies and making the most of your time at this Italian Dolomites gem.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Where is Lago di Braies?
How to Get to Lago di Braies
Tips for Visiting Lago di Braies
Tickets
Opening times
Parking (Parcheggio)
What to See & Do at the Lake
When to Visit Pragser Wildsee
Best Accommodations Near Lago di Braies
Lago di Braies Webcam
FAQ
Final thoughts
Where is Lago di Braies?
Lago di Braies, or Pragser Wildsee in German, is located in the South Tyrol region of northern Italy within the breathtaking Dolomites. More specifically, within the Fanes-Sennes-Braies Nature Park, a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The lake sits about 60 miles (97 km) northeast of Bolzano, the nearest major city and the capital of the South Tyrol region, or 28 miles (45 km) north of the very popular holiday destination of Cortina d'Ampezzo.
Lago di Braies Map
This lake is actually super easy to find! Simply search “Lago di Braies” or “Pragser Wildsee” in your preferred maps app, and it should pop right up. The exact GPS coordinates are 46.6996° N, 12.0840° E.
How to Get to Lago di Braies
By Car
Driving is definitely the most convenient way to reach Lago di Braies! Once you arrive, there are parking lots available near the lake, which do have some season restrictions (more information on this below).
Here are some driving distances from popular nearby towns and international airports:
Cortina d'Ampezzo: 28 miles (45 km), 50 minutes
Bolzano: 60 miles (97 km), 1.5 hours
Ortisei / Val Gardena: 56 miles (90 km), 1.5 hours
Venice Marco Polo Airport: 124 miles (200 km), 3 hours
Innsbruck Airport: 81 miles (130 km), 2 hours
By Bus
For a car-free option, take a bus from the nearby town of Villabassa (Niederdorf) or Dobbiaco (Toblach). Hop on bus route 442, which will drop you off just a short walk from the lake. This bus route runs year-round. Up-to-date bus route information can be found here.
By Tour
Take all of the planning out of the equation with a guided tour! There are plenty of options to fit any travel style - from larger loop trips around the Dolomites, to private day excursions just to Lago di Braies. Most guided tours will leave from Venice, and a few options leave from Bolzano.
Here are 3 of the top rated tours that include Pragser Wildsee (Lake Braies) in their itinerary:
Tips for Visiting Lago di Braies
Before you set off on your adventure to Lago di Braies, here are some essential tips to make your visit both seamless and unforgettable.
Tickets and Entrance Fees
Here’s good news - visiting Lago di Braies is free! You do not need to pay anything to access the lake.
However, depending on your method of travel to reach the lake, you may need to purchase a parking pass or bus ticket. More info on that below.
Opening Times
The area is accessible year-round, although the timing of activities like boat rentals will vary depending on the season.
Most of the crowds visit between 9:00am - 4:00pm each day, so plan an early morning or late evening visit for a quieter experience (FYI sunrise is the perfect time for photos!).
Lago di Braies Parking
Parking, or “Parcheggio Lago di Braies” in Italian, is available nearby, with four main lots to choose from.
P4, P3, and P2 Lots are all within walking distance of the lake (P4 is the closest!)
P1 is an overflow lot that requires a shuttle, or very lengthy walk
Parking Lot Pricing:
Parking lot P4: €15 for 3 hours; €1 for each additional half hour. The maximum fee per day is €20.
Parking lot P3: €10 for one day
Parking lot P2: €6 for one day
Seasonal Parking Restrictions:
Between July 10th to September 10th (peak summer season), access to the lake for cars, motorcycles, and buses is restricted between 9:30am and 4:00pm. You can still drive to Lago di Braies before 9:30am or after 4:00 pm during that date range! But between the hours of 9:30am to 4:00pm, you will need to either reserve a P4 parking permit in advance, ride a bicycle, hike in, or opt for public transportation.
Outside of those peak season dates, you can drive to Lago di Braies any time of day.
>> Up-to-date parking information can be found here.
Pro Tip: Arrive early during summer to claim a parking spot and beat the crowds!
What to See & Do at Lago di Braies
Lago di Braies has so much more to explore than just the one iconic photo location that you see all over social media - which is also completely worth it, FYI.
Here's exactly what I would recommend checking out on your first visit (or second, or third..) to this stunning Dolomites lake:
1. Boat Rentals at Lago di Braies
Nothing says classic Lago di Braies quite like rowing a wooden boat across the vibrant blue alpine waters. Boat rentals are available from spring through late autumn, and prices vary based on the type of experience (outlined below).
Boat Rental Season: May - November
Opening Hours:
May: 10:00 am - 4:30 pm
June: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
July / August: 8:00 am - 7:00 pm
September: 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
October / November: 10:00 am - 4:30 pm
Prices:
€15 for 45 minutes (shared boat)
€50 for 45 minutes (private boat) *most popular option
These boat rentals cannot be booked in advance, so plan to arrive when they first open for the best chance at encountering no lines! More information about the boat rentals can be found here.
Pro tip: For the most private and unique boat experience on Lago di Braies, you can book their 1.5 hour "private shooting" option, which is typically meant for photoshoots or elopements! This is the only option that can be reserved in advance online, and gives you completely private early morning (before regular opening times) access to the entire dock area plus two wooden rowboats. €450 for 1.5 hours of Lago di Braies entirely to yourselves can be booked here.
2. Photograph the Iconic Rowboats
Even if you’re not hopping aboard, those picturesque rowboats lined along the dock? They make for an incredible photo backdrop. Get there early to catch the glowing sunrise light rising up from behind the mountains!
3. Hike Around the Lake
Want to see even more of this gorgeous lake? The loop path around Lago di Braies (or "Lake Braies Loop") is an easy and scenic 2.3 mile trail that takes roughy 1 to 1.5 hours to complete. The route includes a mix of wide paths, some stone steps, and benches for relaxing along the way - all while showing off stunning views at every turn.
Trail info:
4. See the Chapel on the Lake
Hidden on the lake’s south shore is a charming chapel ("Cappella Lago di Braies" in Italian or "Kapelle Pragser Wildsee" in German) with a fairytale-like design and setting. Built in 1904, it’s both a historic and scenic short stop for photography beside the lakeshore.
5. Hike to Malga Foresta
Extend your adventure by hiking out to Malga Foresta, a nearby mountain hut offering hearty meals paired with jaw-dropping mountain views. It’s about a 45 minute walk (1.5 miles) from the boathouse area (main viewpoint) of the lake. Click here for the Google Maps link for Malga Foresta.
When to Visit Pragser Wildsee
The best time to visit Lago di Braies is typically summer or autumn for the best weather and access to trails.
Depending on what type of experience you're looking for though, this might be different for you! Here's a bit more information on what to expect each season at Lake Braies:
Summer (June-August) is perfect for outdoor activities like boating and hiking, but expect large crowds.
Autumn (September-October) offers stunning foliage and thinner crowds - ideal for photographers.
Winter (November-February) transforms the lake into a snowy wonderland, typically frozen over. Be aware that the left side of the hiking trail closes in the winter, while the ride side remains open.
Spring (March-May) an often overlooked time of year to visit, when the lake begins to thaw. Keep in mind that many amenities and activities remain closed until mid-May.
Best Accommodations Near Lago di Braies
Elevate your visit by staying somewhere nearby! Popular Lago di Braies area hotels include:
Hotel Lago di Braies - 3⭐ (right by the lake - a dream for early risers)
Hotel Erika - 3⭐ (charming and inviting, with stunning mountain views)
Hotel Trenker - 4⭐ (a cozy hotel with relaxing spa amenities)
Alpine Nature Hotel Stoll - 4⭐ (alpine vibes with wellness amenities, slightly further from the lake)
Hotel Alpen Tesitin - 5⭐ (luxurious hotel offering breathtaking panoramic views and world-class wellness facilities)
Book your stays well in advance, especially for summer and early autumn visits.
Hotel Lago di Braies (Image via Booking.com)
Alpine Nature Hotel Stoll (Image via Booking.com)
Lago di Braies Webcam
Can’t wait to catch a glimpse of Pragser Wildsee? I don’t blame you! More importantly, you can check live weather conditions before you travel through the Lago di Braies webcam - a great tool for planning your day trip to the lake.
FAQ
1. Can you swim in Lago di Braies?
There is a lot of misinformation about this topic on other blogs! No, swimming is strictly not allowed. This info comes directly from the Pragser Wildsee website's FAQ section.
2. How long do you need at Lago di Braies?
A few hours is perfect! Explore the easy hiking trail around the lake, enjoy a peaceful boat ride, and take in the stunning views.
3. Are pets allowed?
Yes! Italy is incredibly dog-friendly. Dogs are allowed along the lake loop walking path, at the Hotel Lago di Braies, and even in a (private) wooden rowboat rental.
4. Are there any public toilets nearby?
Yes, there are a few (paid) public toilets available at Lago di Braies. The most easily accessible is near the P4 parking area.
5. What are the closest towns/cities to Lago di Braies?
The closest towns to Lago di Braies include Brunico (Bruneck), located about 18 miles (30 km) away, and Dobbiaco (Toblach), roughly 12 miles (20 km) from the lake. Brunico is a larger alpine town with shops, cafés, and plenty of charm, while the much smaller Dobbiaco offers a peaceful gateway to this area of the Dolomites.
Cortina d'Ampezzo is also very close by - only a 28 mile (45 km) drive - and is one of the most popular towns to stay in!
Bolzano is the closest major city to Lago di Braies, at roughly 62 miles (100 km) away.
6. Is There Anywhere to Eat at Lago di Braies?
Yes! There are various options right at the lake:
Panorama Restaurant at Hotel Lago di Braies - delicious South Tyrolean cuisine with a view.
Emma’s Bistro - small plates in a charming restored horse stable setting, right by the lakeside.
Chalet Lake Braies - simple takeaway food and drinks next to the hotel.
Malga Foresta - lovely mountain hut serving hearty meals and drinks, located a 1.5 mile hike (along part of the lake loop trail) away from the Lago di Braies main parking lots.
Final Thoughts
Lago di Braies can be a full-blown day trip experience, if you plan it that way! Whether you’re hiking the beautiful lakeside trail or taking a wooden boat out on the glistening water, this stunning lake is the perfect spot to soak up some of northern Italy’s natural beauty.
Ready to start planning your Dolomites adventure? Be sure to check Lake Braies parking restrictions in advance, book your accommodations early, and obviously don’t forget to pack your camera. Happy travels!
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How to Visit Lago di Braies (Pragser Wildsee): Everything You Need to Know
