Visit San Candido Italy: Best Things to Do in the Heart of the Dolomites

Planning to visit San Candido? This charming alpine town in South Tyrol has a way of making you slow down and enjoy every moment. Between its pastel buildings, fresh mountain air, and easy access to the Dolomites, it’s the kind of place that feels like a deep breath. Sip your way through a local Alto Adige winery, wander cobbled lanes with a strudel in hand, or take in the dramatic views from Monte Baranci. San Candido keeps things simple, scenic, and surprisingly rich in flavor, and that’s exactly why it’s so easy to love.

Visit San Candido Italy: top things to do

Discover the centre of San Candido

Start your visit to San Candido with a slow wander through the old town, where pastel façades and carved wooden balconies set the scene. The main street is lined with cafés serving strudel and espresso, little shops full of wool blankets and handmade ceramics, and windows displaying local cheeses like treasures.

Visit the Collegiate Church of San Candido

Step into San Candido’s past at the Collegiate Church, a 12th-century Romanesque stunner that looks like it was built to impress, and still does. With thick stone walls, a towering bell tower, and an interior that’s more dramatic than decorated, this place keeps it raw and real. The hand-carved altar and ancient frescoes pull you straight into medieval life, no filters needed.

Walk to the Monte Baranci chairlift

Monte Baranci is your go-to mountain escape when you want big views without breaking a sweat. Jump on the chairlift right from the village and in minutes, you’re surrounded by peaks, alpine meadows, and fresh mountain air. It’s made for easy hikes, wild toboggan runs, and lazy lunches in cozy huts.

Explore the 3 Zinnen Dolomites area

The 3 Zinnen Dolomites area is an open invitation to get outside and move. From San Candido, you’ve got easy access to some of the most iconic trails in South Tyrol, including routes that lead all the way to the jaw-dropping Tre Cime di Lavaredo. Hike from hut to hut, ride scenic bike paths, or just stop and stare at those razor-sharp peaks. It’s one of those places where every turn feels like a postcard. Lace up, clip in, and go.

Explore the Rocca dei Baranci

The Gigante Baranci trail on Monte Baranci blends scenic walking with unexpected surprises along the way, think creative wood carvings, open-air art, and a few alpine oddities tucked into the landscape. It’s a refreshing break from the more rugged hikes, perfect for stretching your legs, soaking in the views, and letting your curiosity lead the way.

Photograph the Tower of San Michele Church

The bell tower of San Michele Church is hard to miss, that onion dome rises above San Candido like something out of a vintage postcard. It’s the kind of landmark you spot from every angle in town. Step inside and you’ll be greeted by delicate frescoes, an ornate altar, and a calm, timeworn atmosphere that feels a world away from the mountain buzz just outside. If you’re planning to visit San Candido, this is one stop that’s impossible to overlook.

Visit San Candido Italy: top things to do around

Explore the Alpine beauty of Dobbiaco

Just a short hop from San Candido, 9 minutes, Dobbiaco (or Toblach) is a laid-back gem tucked into the Pusteria Valley. It’s the perfect base for chasing views of the Tre Cime di Lavaredo or hopping on a bike for a breezy ride along the Drau Cycle Route. Between alpine hikes, spa breaks, and the postcard-worthy church of San Giovanni, Dobbiaco delivers that sweet spot between wild nature and pure relaxation.

Walk to Lago di Braies

Just 35 minutes from San Candido, Lago di Braies sits quietly in the heart of Fanes-Sennes-Braies Nature Park, and yes, it’s as jaw-dropping as the photos. With glassy green waters and craggy Dolomites all around, it’s the kind of place where time slows down. Walk the lakeside trail, grab a rowboat if the weather’s good, or just kick back with a drink at the mountain hut and soak in that absurdly scenic view.

Head to Brunico

Just an hour west of San Candido, visit Brunico Italy for a laid-back day filled with cobblestone charm, mountain air, and a dash of culture. Wander through the historic old town, where pastel façades and cafés line the streets, then head up to Bruneck Castle to explore the MMM Ripa, a museum all about mountain life across the globe. It’s an easygoing stop where local shops, alpine views, and a glass of wine come together without trying too hard.

Good to Know before visiting San Candido