Pick up a strong coffee and a pastry at a nearby bacaro or pasticceria to eat on the drive — many places around the station open ~6:30–7:00, so you can start early. This is faster than searching for a sit-down breakfast once you leave the city.
Drive northeast on A27 / SR48 toward the Misurina / Auronzo di Cadore area — the most direct route to Tre Cime. Expect steady mountain driving with scenic stretches; leaving early avoids traffic and gives more daylight for hiking.
Park by the Auronzo roadhead and pay the access toll for the road up to Rifugio Auronzo (seasonal). From here the classic Tre Cime circuit begins with immediate panoramic views of the Three Peaks.
A world-famous, moderate mountain hike (rocky paths, well-marked) offering dramatic vertical peaks, cliffs, and alpine plateaus; ideal for iconic photos and mountain immersion. Check trail and weather conditions before you set out — mountain weather can change rapidly in October.
Enjoy hearty alpine cuisine (polenta, goulash, sandwiches, soups) with a mountain-view terrace — refugios typically serve midday meals from ~10:00–16:00 during the season. Confirm opening dates/times as some huts reduce hours in shoulder season (late Sep–Oct).
Drive or walk down to Lago di Misurina for reflections of the peaks (if time/conditions permit) and capture wide-angle views; this is a relaxed interlude to digest the hike and enjoy lower-altitude scenery.
A 20–30 minute drive brings you to Cortina’s pedestrian center for a short stroll, gelato, or the Faloria cable car for sweeping valley views — the Faloria cable car usually runs until mid-afternoon/early evening (typical last runs ~4:00–5:00pm in shoulder season), so check operation times before planning this stop.
Relax with an aperitivo or espresso on Corso Italia (main street) and enjoy mountain-town atmosphere before the drive back; most bars are open through the evening but kitchen hours vary.
Return west/southwest to Venice via the same A27 route — allow ~2.5–3 hours depending on light and traffic; plan headlamps/flashlight if driving late and check weather for autumn mountain crossings.
Reserve a table at a comfortable Venetian trattoria near Santa Lucia or the station such as a traditional osteria serving cicchetti, fresh pasta and fish; many restaurants serve dinner from ~7:00–22:30 but book ahead as places can be small. Example: choose a well-reviewed local osteria and request a window or canal table if you want a view.