Lake Braies Ultimate Guide: How to Visit Lago di Braies in the Dolomites

Lake Braies (Lago di Braies in Italian or Pragser Wildsee in German) is one of the most beautiful alpine gems in the Dolomites, Northern Italy.

Although the lake has a long history, it became truly famous only in the last decade, mostly thanks to social media. Today, it’s one of the most photographed lakes in the region.

It’s also one of my personal favorites. I’ve been returning to Lake Braies for years, and it never loses its magic.

To give you a quick picture: Lago di Braies is a medium-sized lake with deep green water, surrounded by pine forests and dramatic rocky peaks. On one side of the lake, there’s a charming wooden boathouse with traditional brown rowboats – a view that looks like it’s straight from a postcard. It’s incredibly photogenic, which is why so many hikers and photographers love to come here.

The lake lies in a hidden valley near Brunico (Bruneck) and Dobbiaco (Toblach), in the northern part of the Dolomites. Even though it feels remote, it’s actually quite easy to reach.

If you’ve read some of my other articles, you already know that the Dolomites are one of my favorite hiking destinations in all of Europe. I return every summer, sometimes to revisit old favorites, other times to explore new trails. By now, I know this region quite well, and I can honestly say: if you love mountains, nature, and hiking, the Dolomites, and especially Lake Braies, are a fantastic choice!

So if you’re planning a trip to the Dolomites, don’t miss Lake Braies.

There are a few important things to know before you go: about how to get there, parking, what to do, where to stay and where to eat. To help you plan your trip, I’ve put together this complete Lake Braies guide with everything you need to know for a smooth and enjoyable visit.

Let’s dive in and see what makes Lago di Braies such a special place!

After this quick overview, let’s go through the most frequently asked questions about visiting Lago di Braies:

Is Lake Braies in the Dolomites worth visiting?

Yes, it really is. Lake Braies is easy to reach and, in my opinion, the most beautiful lake in the area. It’s one of those places you should not miss when visiting the Dolomites.

Even though it’s not a cheap destination and it often gets crowded, it offers such an amazing experience and unique views that it would be a shame to skip it.

Where exactly is Lake Braies located?

Lake Braies is in South Tyrol, in the Trentino–Alto Adige region of Northern Italy.

It lies in the Braies Valley, which is a side valley of the Puster Valley (Val Pusteria), in the northern part of the Dolomites, at an altitude of 1,496 meters above sea level.

The lake is surrounded by high mountain peaks on three sides, and its bright green water makes it one of the most picturesque places in the Dolomites.

How to get to Lake Braies

You can reach the lake by bus, car, on foot, or by bike.

By bus

The local bus line 442 runs from Dobbiaco (Toblach) and Villabassa (Niederdorf) directly to the lake.

The price is the same as other local public transport tickets.

In the summer season, buses run about every 30 minutes.

For exact timetables, check the local website or download the Südtirol Mobil app.

You can also buy your ticket from the bus driver.

By car

This is the most flexible option, but also the most expensive one, especially in summer.

From July to mid-September, there is a barrier system during the day, and you need an entry ticket to reach the lake.

You have two options:

• buy a ticket in advance to enter before 4 pm, or
• arrive after 4 pm when the barrier opens and you can go for free.

The barrier is at the start of the road leading to the lake, and you can scan your ticket at the machine.

In 2025, the ticket cost €40, and the price keeps increasing every year.

That’s why I recommend arriving after 4 pm: the light is better for photos then, it’s less crowded, and it’s also cheaper.

You can buy the summer entry ticket online or at the info point at the beginning of the road leading to the lake, but it’s better to buy it online in advance.

Parking at Lake Braies

There are three main parking lots near the lake.

If you don’t arrive at peak time, you’ll usually find a spot at parking P4, which is the closest one and just a short walk from the lake.

P4 is also the most expensive, but I still recommend it for its convenience.

If the lake is crowded, you might have to park farther away and walk a bit more.

This is another reason to visit later in the afternoon, when most tourists have already left.

On foot or by bike

These options are only recommended if you are an experienced hiker or cyclist.

The road to the lake is often busy with cars and buses, so walking or cycling there is not the most relaxing choice.

Best time to visit Lake Braies

The best time to visit Lago di Braies is from June to the end of September.

In terms of weather, July and August are the best months: daytime temperatures are pleasant for boating and hiking, there’s usually less rain than in other months, and the days are longer, so you can enjoy more daylight.

However, the weather in the Dolomites can be very unpredictable. Always check the forecast before your trip, and keep in mind that the conditions can change quickly, even during the day. Rain showers are common in this region.

From late autumn to early summer, the weather is quite cold, and in winter, the lake is usually frozen. Some parts of the hiking trail may even be closed.

A winter visit is only recommended if you’re already planning to go skiing in the Dolomites and want to add a short stop at Lake Braies to your itinerary.

As for the time of day, it’s best to visit in the afternoon, about 2–4 hours before sunset. In summer, after 4 pm, you don’t need to pay the entry fee anymore, and the light is perfect for photography.

I personally love staying near the boathouse at sunset, it’s a beautiful spot for sunset photos. In the evening, the boats are pulled in and tied together in interesting patterns, creating a very photogenic scene.

If you want to go boating, though, it’s better to arrive around midday or early afternoon, so you can be sure to get a boat.

What to expect at Lake Braies

Let’s take a look at some other common questions that may come up about Lago di Braies:

Best things to do around Lake Braies

The best things to do at Lake Braies are simple but truly enjoyable.

Here’s what I recommend doing at Lake Braies:

• Go boating: In summer, you can rent one of the classic wooden rowboats. It’s very popular and a beautiful experience on the calm green water.
• Hike around the lake: There’s an easy walking trail that goes all around the lake. It’s one of the most popular activities here.
• Take photos: Lake Braies is one of the most photographed and famous lakes in the Dolomites, so it’s a must for photographers.
• Try local food: Nearby restaurants, like Emma’s Bistro, serve local dishes with a view of the lake. Try the spinach Käsespätzle or goulash with polenta. Some gluten-free options are also available.

You can read more details about these activities in the sections below.

Is it worth hiking around the lake?

I think it’s worth walking around the lake, but only if you have enough time.

The best views are actually near the boathouse and a bit east from it, where you can see the impressive Croda del Becco mountain (called Seekofel in German) right in front of you. So, you don’t need to walk all the way around the lake to enjoy the best views.

But if you like hiking, the trail around the lake is about 3.6 km long. It’s an easy walk with only small uphill sections, a nice summer activity. Along the way, you might even see some local cows near the trail.

What to pack for the Lake Braies hike

Since the parking areas are quite close to the lake, you don’t need to pack full hiking gear. Still, it’s good to be prepared, especially if you plan to walk or hike around the lake.

• Proper clothes: In summer, it can feel warm while hiking, but it often gets cooler in the forest or when the weather changes. Dress in layers and always bring a light rain jacket.
• Comfortable hiking shoes: Choose shoes with a good grip, and if possible, make sure they’re waterproof.
• Backpack: Bring some snacks and water, it’s always useful to have them with you at the lake.
• Phone: It will be useful for taking photos and also for following the hiking trail.

Is it worth renting a boat?

I’d say definitely yes, it’s worth trying the boating experience at least once at Lake Braies.

The traditional wooden rowboats are not easy to handle, and renting them isn’t cheap (in 2025 the price is €55 for 45 minutes with a private boat), but the experience and the photo opportunities are absolutely worth it.

There are a few options for boat rental, including shared rides and private boat experiences, but in my opinion, the private boat option is the best.

From my own experience, I recommend booking only the shortest 45-minute option if you’re in a hurry or plan to move around the lake faster.

However, if you want to take more photos, videos, or just enjoy the scenery at a slower pace, 45 minutes is not enough, book 90 minutes instead.

When returning the boat, they often give small gifts, such as postcards and fridge magnets, which is a nice souvenir to take home.

There’s also an option for private photo sessions at the lake. These are quite expensive and usually take place early in the morning, but if you’re planning an engagement or wedding photoshoot, it’s a great opportunity.

Is the area crowded?

Yes, Lake Braies is one of the most crowded lakes in the Dolomites. There are lots of people, especially in the morning and around midday, which can make the visit less enjoyable.

That’s why I recommend coming later in the afternoon, when the crowds get smaller, this way you can also avoid parking problems and take photos more easily.

Photo tips

If you want to take the best photos of Lake Braies, here are a few simple tips:

• The best light is in the late afternoon and before sunset. I’ve been to the lake at every time of day, and this period always gives the most beautiful colors and calm reflections.
• A wide-angle camera can be helpful, but it’s not necessary.
• For photos, white, red, or beige clothes look best against the lake’s green water and the mountain scenery in the background.
• The best photo spots are on the north and northeast side of the lake, right by the water along the trail, where you get the perfect view of Croda del Becco (Seekofel).
• Other great spots are around the boathouse, near the hotel, and at the northeast corner of the lake.

These are just some basic tips, but honestly, the landscape speaks for itself. You don’t need to be a professional photographer to take amazing pictures at Lago di Braies.

Where to eat near the lake

As mentioned earlier, there are two main places to eat at Lake Braies, plus one more worth stopping at on the way:

• Emma’s Bistro is the closest restaurant to the lake. It serves local dishes quickly, and its terrace is right by the water, so you can enjoy your meal with a lake view. Try the traditional spinach Käsespätzle or goulash with polenta, two of the most popular dishes in the region. As I mentioned before, some gluten-free options are also available here.
• Another good choice is Chalet Lago di Braies, located near the parking lots. It offers simple, quick meals like sausages with fries or pizza.

Along the road leading to the lake, you’ll also find several other restaurants, most of them run by nearby hotels and guesthouses.

• One more place I can recommend for tasting local food is Trattoria Mösslhof Alto Adige, a nice spot for traditional South Tyrolean dishes.

Can you swim in Lake Braies?

No, swimming is not allowed in Lake Braies, as the area is part of a protected nature park.

Also, the water stays very cold even in summer, so most people wouldn’t want to swim here anyway.

Can you use a drone at the lake?

Technically, flying a drone at Lake Braies is not allowed, and there are clear signs showing this.

However, many people still break this rule because the lake looks amazing from above in drone photos and videos.

Just keep in mind that if you fly a drone here, you’re technically breaking the rules.

Other places to visit near Lake Braies

Don’t miss these beautiful spots if you’re visiting Lake Braies:

• Lake Dobbiaco: A peaceful lake surrounded by forests, easy to reach by car.
• Lake Landro: A smaller but stunning lake with great mountain views.
• Tre Cime di Lavaredo: The most famous mountain peaks in the Dolomites, perfect for hiking.
• Lake Misurina: A popular lake in Misurina, known for its iconic lakeside hotels and beautiful mountain views right from the shore.
• Lake Sorapis: Known for its turquoise color, but only reachable by a moderate hiking trail.

So this was my complete guide to Lake Braies, with all the main information you need to plan your visit. I’ve also answered the most common questions about the lake and its surroundings, and shared some of my own experiences.

I hope this article has inspired you to visit Lake Braies and helped you understand what to expect once you’re there.

If you want to see this breathtaking place for yourself, don’t wait too long! Plan your next trip to the Dolomites with Lake Braies as one of the highlights. Book one of the recommended hotels, check out my other Dolomites guides, and get ready to discover one of the most beautiful regions in Italy!