Tre Cime di Lavaredo in Italy Overrun by Mass Tourism

The iconic Tre Cime di Lavaredo in the Italian Dolomites is experiencing unprecedented visitor numbers, with up to 14,000 tourists per day during peak season. Long queues for shuttle buses to the Auronzo shelter have become common, prompting criticism of tourists who appear focused on selfies rather than the natural environment.

Local authorities have introduced measures to curb the pressure, including a daily limit of 800 cars on the paid road to the Auronzo refuge and a reservation system for both parking and shuttle buses, costing around €40 per vehicle. Some farmers have even installed rope‑wheels on pastures, charging €5 per entry to control access. Further restrictions are being considered as residents argue that mass tourism strains infrastructure, leaves litter, damages shelters, and diminishes the mountain experience.