Bolzano Travel Guide
Facts and practical information
Nestled in the picturesque region of Trentino-South Tyrol in Italy, Bolzano is a charming city that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural attractions. Surrounded by the breathtaking Dolomite Mountains, Bolzano is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
One of the highlights of Bolzano is its stunning landscapes. The city is located in the heart of the Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its majestic peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and lush green valleys. Visitors can explore the mountains through hiking trails, mountain biking routes, or even take a cable car ride to admire the panoramic views from above.
Bolzano is also a city of culture and history. The historic center, with its charming medieval architecture, winding streets, and lively squares, is a delight to explore. The Cathedral of Bolzano, with its Gothic and Romanesque elements, is a must-visit for its stunning frescoes and ornate interiors. The South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology is another gem, housing the famous Ötzi the Iceman, a 5,300-year-old mummy discovered in the nearby Ötztal Alps.
Food lovers will find themselves in gastronomic heaven in Bolzano. The city is renowned for its culinary delights, blending Italian and Austrian influences. Visitors can indulge in traditional South Tyrolean cuisine, which includes hearty dishes like speck (smoked ham), knödel (dumplings), and strudel (pastry filled with fruit or cheese). Pair these delectable treats with a glass of locally produced wine, and you have the perfect dining experience.
For those seeking a cultural immersion, Bolzano also hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year. The Bolzano Christmas Market, with its festive atmosphere and array of traditional crafts and treats, is a must-visit during the holiday season. The Bolzano Festival, a renowned music festival featuring classical concerts, opera performances, and ballet shows, attracts artists and spectators from around the world.
Bolzano Attractions - What to See and Explore
Bolzano offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: PalaOnda, Runkelstein Castle, Messner Mountain Museum, Siegesdenkmal. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.
Things to See and Do in Bolzano by Category
Sights, interesting and unusual places and attractions valued by most tourists. See the list of places to visit in Bolzano.
Active
PalaOnda
BolzanoArenas and stadiums Hockey Sport venue 
South Tyrol Alpine Club
BolzanoClimbing 
Salewa Cube
BolzanoOutdoor activities Climbing 
Stadio Druso
BolzanoSport venue Sport
Museum
Runkelstein Castle
BolzanoCastle with medieval secular frescoes
Forts and castles Architecture 
Messner Mountain Museum
BolzanoMuseum Specialty museum History museum 
Museion
BolzanoMuseum Specialty museum Art museum 
South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology
BolzanoMuseum dedicated to Ötzi the Iceman
Museum History museum 
Sigmundskron Castle
BolzanoMuseum Forts and castles
Specialty museum
Messner Mountain Museum
BolzanoMuseum Specialty museum History museum Museion
BolzanoMuseum Specialty museum Art museum 
Old Parish Church of Gries
BolzanoChurch Specialty museum Museum 
South Tyrol Museum of Natural Science
BolzanoMuseum Specialty museum Science museum 
Museo Mercantile - Merkantilmuseum
BolzanoMuseum Specialty museum
Forts and castles
Runkelstein Castle
BolzanoCastle with medieval secular frescoes
Forts and castles Architecture Sigmundskron Castle
BolzanoMuseum Forts and castles 
Maretsch Castle
BolzanoImposing 13th-century fortress
Forts and castles 
Karneid Castle
BolzanoForts and castles 
Treuenstein Castle
BolzanoForts and castles Vernacular architecture
Church
Franciscan Friary
BolzanoMonastery Church Old Parish Church of Gries
BolzanoChurch Specialty museum Museum 
Chiesa dei Domenicani
BolzanoChurch Sacred and religious sites Gothic architecture 
Our Lady of the Assumption
BolzanoChurch 
Chiesa Sacro Cuore - Herz-Jesu-Kirche
BolzanoChurch
Bolzano – popular in the area (distance from the center)
In the vicinity of Bolzano, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Sella Ronda, Madonna di Campiglio, Tyrol Castle (Tirol).
Best Time To Visit Bolzano
Learn when is the best time to travel to Bolzano weather-wise and what to expect in each season.
Best Ways to Experience Bolzano
Food & drink
CuisineA guide to some of the best local dishes and drinks that you will meet in the region.
Pizza
Pizza, a cherished Italian delicacy, consists of a round, flattened dough base topped with tomatoes, cheese, and a variety of other ingredients. Traditionally, it's baked at high temperatures in a wood-fired oven. The term "pizza" was first documented in Italy in the...
Dish
Pasta
Pasta, a cherished dish originating from Italy, is primarily made from grain flour—usually wheat—combined with water or eggs. It comes in a multitude of shapes and can be prepared in various ways, including boiling, baking, or frying.
Food
Ravioli
Ravioli are a delectable type of pasta that feature a savory filling encased in thin pasta dough. Originating from Italian cuisine, these delightful pockets are typically served in broth or with a rich sauce. They come in various shapes such as square, circular, or...
Pasta
Risotto
Risotto is a cherished northern Italian rice dish celebrated for its creamy texture and rich flavor. The magic unfolds as the rice is cooked in broth, typically enhanced with butter, onion, white wine, and Parmesan cheese.
Dish
Gnocchi
Gnocchi is a delightful type of pasta made from a variety of ingredients including semolina, wheat flour, eggs, cheese, potatoes, breadcrumbs, or cornmeal. To introduce a unique twist, you can flavor the dough with herbs, vegetables, cocoa, or even prunes.
Dish
Trentino-South Tyrol