Drei Zinnen tourism surge forces long shuttle bus queues in Dolomites

During the high season in the Dolomites, the iconic Drei Zinnen (Three Peaks) attract up to 14,000 visitors per day. To curb car traffic, daily permits for the toll road to the Auronzo‑Hütte are capped at 800, and travelers must book a parking space for about €40. As a result, most visitors rely on shuttle buses, creating kilometre‑long queues at the Misurina bus stop.

Local officials, including regional politician Nicola Bombassei and mayor Dario Vecellio Galeno, say the limit is necessary to protect the landscape, citing UNESCO recommendations. Critics argue that day‑trippers, many motivated by Instagram photos, overload the area, leading to litter, damage to huts and tension with residents. Alpine association representative Alberto Gris notes the growing dissatisfaction among locals and authorities, who are considering further measures such as reducing temporary shelter capacity.