A car is by far the most practical way to move around the Dolomites, especially if you want to drive the high passes — Giau, Falzarego, Valparola, Gardena, Sella, Pordoi — which are the most scenic roads in Italy and allow you to reach the trailheads and rifugi directly. Most of the main passes are toll-free; only a handful of summit roads charge for access.
In ski season, each resort operates shuttle buses between the town centres and the main lift stations; the Dolomiti Superski areas are well-connected by ski bus within each valley. Inter-valley transfers by car are straightforward on the main pass roads.
In summer, the Dolomiti Bus runs services throughout South Tyrol and into the main Veneto valleys. Several of the most popular trailheads (Tre Cime, Lago di Braies, Alpe di Siusi) restrict private car access during the day from late June to early October — you must park below and take a shuttle bus, or arrive before 8am or after 4pm. This reduces congestion at the most popular spots but requires planning.
Cycling on the passes is a serious activity in summer; the gradients are challenging but the roads are well-maintained and the scenery is extraordinary. E-bikes make the climbs accessible to non-racing cyclists.