South Tyrol is characterised by its breathtaking nature, the cultural diversity of the German, Ladin and Italian languages and a multifaceted history. And right at the heart of this region lies Bolzano, the wonderful capital that deserves to be explored with curiosity. Bolzano combines Alpine and Mediterranean influences in a unique way and offers a fascinating mix of old town charm, modern architecture and a culinary scene that will make the hearts of connoisseurs beat faster. Here are our top tips for an unforgettable stay in Bolzano!
The old town: Historic flair meets lively atmosphere
A stroll through the historic centre of Bolzano gives you the feeling of immersing yourself in the past. Cobblestones, colourful facades and narrow alleyways characterise the picture. Waltherplatz square, the heart of the city, is particularly worth a visit and is just 200 metres from the Falkensteiner Hotel Bozen Waltherpark, which will open in spring 2025. It is not only a popular meeting place, but is also home to the imposing monument to the minstrel Walther von der Vogelweide. Nearby is Bolzano Cathedral, a Gothic cathedral whose ornate tower characterises the cityscape.
Another highlight of the old town are the arcades, the famous arcaded houses that stretch along the main street. Here you can shop to your heart’s content, browse in small boutiques or relax in charming cafés and soak up the hustle and bustle of the city. The Café Thaler Arôme and the traditional Batzen Häusel with its own award-winning brewery are real insider tips.
Culture, history and modernity
For history buffs, a visit to the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology is a must. It is home to the famous glacier mummy Ötzi, one of the oldest known mummies in the world, which was discovered in the Ötztal Alps, but on Italian soil. This relic, which is over 5,000 years old, provides an insight into life in the Neolithic period and fascinates visitors with its details – from the clothing to the tools of the ‘Iceman’. The museum offers interactive exhibitions and is a real experience for both adults and children.
Another ‘must-see’ is the Museum of Modern Art, the Museion, which is known for its impressive collection of contemporary art and changing exhibitions by renowned artists.
Pure indulgence: Culinary experiences in Bolzano
Bolzano is a melting pot of cultures – this is also reflected in its cuisine. Here, hearty Tyrolean cuisine meets Italian sophistication. Be sure to try Schlutzkrapfen, dumplings in all variations and a glass of South Tyrolean wine, such as the famous Lagrein or Gewürztraminer. An insider tip for fans of Italian cuisine is a Neapolitan pizza (the one with the thick crust) in the pizzeria ‘Il Corso’.
A special highlight is the new Mochi Restaurant, the first of its kind in Italy, on the rooftop terrace of the Falkensteiner Hotel Bozen Waltherpark with a view of the city. Here you can enjoy exquisite Japanese fusion cuisine that combines traditional elements with local ingredients. The breathtaking panorama of the city will make your culinary experience an unforgettable highlight.
A tip for wine lovers is to visit the numerous first-class wineries along the wine route, not far from Bolzano. The St. Pauls Winery, the Girlan Winery and the Schreckbichl Winery are outstanding representatives of South Tyrolean wine. The wine museum in Kaltern, which is only a short drive from Bolzano, is also worth a visit and offers interesting insights into the long history of winegrowing in South Tyrol.
At the town’s many markets, such as the popular weekly market on Piazza Walther, you can buy fresh local produce such as cheese, ham and vegetables directly from the producers. Perfect for a small picknick or as a yummy souvenir.
Nature experiences: A paradise for hiking and cycling
Bolzano is surrounded by an impressive mountain landscape that invites you to explore. The Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are just a stone’s throw away and offer countless hiking trails that are suitable for both beginners and experienced mountaineers. We particularly recommend the Rosengarten, a mountain massif that glows in magical shades of red in the evening – a true natural spectacle! And in winter, the Obereggen and Carezza ski resorts are particularly attractive; one of the most famous lakes in Italy, Lake Carezza, is also located here and is impressive at any time of year.
Cyclists also get their money’s worth in and around Bolzano. The Adige Valley cycle route runs along the River Adige to Merano and offers flat, well-maintained paths with fantastic views of vineyards and orchards. A relaxed route leads from Bolzano to Caldaro, where you can take a break at the idyllic lake. For ambitious cyclists, we recommend the circular tour around the Catinaccio massif, which rewards you with steep climbs and spectacular views of the Dolomites. There are also numerous cycle paths in Bolzano that lead to the most important sights.
Sigmundskron Castle: Art and nature in perfect symbiosis
Just a few kilometres from Bolzano lies the imposing Sigmundskron Castle, which is enthroned on a hill and offers a magnificent view over the Adige Valley. The castle is now home to the Messner Mountain Museum Firmian, which focuses on the theme of mountains and their significance for mankind. The South Tyrolean extreme mountaineer Reinhold Messner has assembled an impressive collection of art and artefacts from all over the world here. The symbiosis of modern architecture and historic castle walls makes this place an unforgettable experience.
Conclusion: Bolzano - a city of diversity
Bolzano is a city that welcomes its visitors with open arms. Whether you are interested in culture, nature, history or cuisine, Bolzano has something for everyone. The special blend of Alpine and Mediterranean lifestyle makes the city unique and an ideal destination for a relaxing yet eventful holiday. Immerse yourself in the diversity of South Tyrol and let Bolzano enchant you!