Bolzano, Italy embraces you with a seductive medley of culture and history topped with mountains of soul-mending dolce vita. Here’s your step-by-step guide to an unforgettable time in South Tyrol’s most cosmopolitan city.
With the snow-dappled Dolomites boldly calling beyond its vine-drenched hillsides, you may be tempted to breeze through Bolzano. What a foolhardy mistake that would be.
A visit to Bolzano — or Bozen as it is also known — envelopes you in contrasting wonders on par with the Alpine glory in the wild blue yonder. Its lively streets and squares immerse you in centuries of German, Italian and Austrian influences not to mention a riveting history that surpasses ancient Rome by 3,000 years. Often referred to as “The Gateway to the Dolomites”, this vibrant capital of South Tyrol crystalizes why the region is one of the must-see hidden gems of Europe.
Tucked between Innsbruck to the north and Trento to the south, Bolzano boasts a quality of life that ranks at the top in Italy. No surprise considering it balances all the perks of a youthful city with old-world charm and sensibilities — all amid jaw-dropping natural splendor.
You could arrive in Bolzano without an itinerary and still come away enchanted. Its Dolce Vita vibe is wholly infectious. But if you like having a plan in your back pocket, we have you covered. Dive into our list of things to see and do in Bolzano. We show you how to go about discovering its treasures, as well as share where to eat, stay and hike.
⇒ Plan Your Bolzano Visit: Grab our South Tyrol + Dolomites Travel Guide
CONTENTS OVERVIEW
How to Spend A Day Visiting Bolzano
#1 Meet Bolzano’s Poetic Heart
Begin your day early by heading to the city’s historic center. Known as the Waltherplatz or Piazza Walther, it has been the “living room” of Bolzano for more than 900 years. This elegant piazza is also home to Italy’s largest Christmas market.
Ease into the morning with a hot chocolate or cappuccino at one of the many sun-kissed cafes bordering the town square. One of our favorites on the piazza is Loacker Café. It is perfectly situated for soaking in the rays as you watch Bolzano bustle to life. Plus, it is a gold mine of deliciousness. As you may have guessed, it is owned by the South Tyrolean wafer and chocolate company of the same name.
If you are in the mood for a sweet, consider ordering freshly baked krapfen. This Bolzano favorite is a decadent doughnut-like pastry filled with cream or marmalade. Be careful, as one may turn into two.
After your last morning sip, set off to see some of Bolzano’s historic sights. The first one lies just steps away.
At the center of the Waltherplatz is a remarkable statue of Walther von der Vogelweide, a renowned poet and Minnesinger from the Middle Ages believed to have been born in South Tyrol. He was the Jim Morrison of the medieval age. Sculpted in 1889 from South Tyrol’s revered Lasser marble, the statue stands on an impressive fountain encircled by flowers.
From the square, it’s impossible to miss the Gothic-Romanesque cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption, which is the largest Gothic church in South Tyrol. The cathedral was originally constructed in the 12th century and took on its Gothic form in the 14th century.
Crowning the cathedral is an ornately patterned roof matching the vibrancy of the square. The stonework of its steepled bell tower is especially striking.
Two weathered lions guard its main entrance and form the base of two columns supporting an archway. A massively forged door with curious carvings of the Isarco river and the Dolomites welcomes worshipers.
Inside, lovers of medieval art can admire frescoes from the 1300s and marvel at the cathedral’s pulpit. It is a masterful work of Gothic art sculpted in 1507. While studying its details, see if you can spot the hunter and fox lingering within its chiseled scene.
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#2 Walk the Via Dei Portici
Leaving the cathedral, head to the Via dei Portici (also called Laubengasse) just north of the square. This street was the first to ever run through Bolzano. A pulsating center of trade for nearly 1,000 years, it is undoubtedly one of the most enthralling places to walk in all of South Tyrol.
Shady arcades line both sides of the Via dei Portici for as far as the eye can see. Built in the 13th century, the arcades protect shoppers and promenaders from intense sunlight in summer and rain and snow in winter.
You can simply walk along appreciating the many storefronts, but the real gems are inside. You’ll find everything from traditional crafts and attire to artwork and designer clothing. Even if you don’t intend to purchase any goods, be sure to peek into a few shops. Many walls still feature ancient frescoes revealing age-old market scenes.
While the shops are fun to explore, the colorful facades lining the Via dei Portici really bring your imagination to life. They exhibit a variety of architectural styles and are decorated with murals, carvings and other artistic expressions vividly showcasing Bolzano’s harmonic blend of Italian and German heritage.
Along Via dei Portici, you’ll also find the Mercantile Museum and Mercantile Palace founded by Claudia de‘ Medici. This is the only Renaissance-style building in Bolzano. It once served as a court of justice for the Mercantile Court. Today, the museum tells the fascinating story of Bolzano’s economic importance through the centuries.
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#3 Savor an Authentic South Tyrolean Lunch
After consuming so much history, art and architecture it’s only natural to settle in for a long lunch. Experience a true South Tyrolean meal with a glass of the region’s celebrated wine at Wirtshaus Vögele.
A cultural gem of Bolzano, the establishment was first mentioned in 1277 and held secret gatherings in World War II. Gaining entrance to these meetings required whispering “Vögele”, which means “little bird”.
Wirsthaus Vögele is a member of Sudtiroler Gasthaus, an organization dedicated to carefully preserving South Tyrolean restaurant culture and quality. The restaurant conjures a cozy atmosphere with a winding assortment of dining rooms each offering its own ambiance.
If you’re visiting Bolzano during asparagus season in April or May, be sure to try a dish with “spargel”. Our asparagus risotto was as good as a sweetly sung melody from Walther von der Vogelweide himself!
Another excellent choice for lunch is the Stadt Cafe & Restaurant which sits along the edge of the Waltherplatz. A well-thought-out menu offers the type of lunchtime fare that will please you whether you desire Italian or traditional South Tyrolean dishes. The desserts are extravagant here so pace yourself.
#4 Journey 5000+ Years Back in Time
After lunch, venture west on Via dei Portici. You’re about to go back in time…way back. You’ll eventually come to the home of Bolzano’s most famous resident at the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology.
At the age of 5,300 years old, Ötzi the Iceman is an astonishingly well-preserved corpse. Mummified naturally by glacier ice, he’s the oldest intact human body ever found. His discovery by two hikers in 1991 shook the world. They found him high up on a mountainside in the Ötztal Alps above Val Venosta — a valley in South Tyrol famous for its sunken bell tower of Curon.
Analysis of his body indicates an arrow cut Ötzi’s life short. Fortunately, that type of hospitality has long left South Tyrol.
If Ötzi were alive today no doubt he would be the leader of a biker gang. Scientists discovered 61 tattoos across his body. We highly recommend buying your tickets online before you go.
⇒ YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: Ötzi the Iceman: An Interview 5,300 Years in the Making
#5 Amble Along the Piazza delle Erbe
When you’re through visiting Ötzi, you may be craving a mid-afternoon snack. Walk back to the city center to the Piazza delle Erbe, a beaming outdoor marketplace that cannot be missed.
Established in 1295, this colorful corner of Bolzano was a vital center for trade between Northern and Southern Europe during the Middle Ages. Based on the throngs of people you encounter here, you can safely conclude it still is.
Spend time browsing the stalls overflowing with fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers and other specialties such as regional meats, cheeses and baked goods. Nearly all of the produce is from local farmers.
⇒ Plan Your Bolzano Visit: Grab our South Tyrol + Dolomites Travel Guide
If you walk away without picking up a tasty delight or two, you’ll be insulting a 700+ year tradition on the streets of Bolzano. A welcoming town like Bolzano is not the place to ignore such a lovely custom.
Also located on the Piazza delle Erbe is a famous fountain of Neptune. Stern in demeanor, the bronze God of the Sea brazenly keeps a sharp eye on all the patrons roaming the marketplace.
Erected in 1777, it is considered among the 100 most impressive fountains in Italy. Pigeons seem to agree. We have yet to admire the work of art without the feathered adornments.
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#6 Encounter the Legend of St. Francis…and Dracula
From the market, wander north along the Franziskanergasse to the Franciscan Friary. Founded in 1221, the friary contains a Gothic church, chapel and cloisters with frescoes dating back to the 14th century.
Taking time to decipher the haunting scenes as you walk under the cloisters is a rewarding experience for anyone curious about medieval history.
It is believed Saint Francis partook in Mass in the Chapel while visiting Bolzano with his cloth merchant father who was in town on business.
Another legend also enshrouds the friary albeit one much more nightmarish in nature. The great-grandson of Vlad the Impaler, better known as the inspiration for the legend of Count Dracula, is entombed within its walls.
His name was Petru Schiopul, but he was known as “Peter the Lame”. He died in 1594. His remains are sealed with a stone bearing the carving of a bull’s head, the traditional symbol of Moldavia as well as a carving of the devil.
#7 Explore the Wines & Castles of Bolzano
If your day has not been consumed by the old-world charms of Bolzano, you can either hop back in your car or rent a bike for a 25-minute ride to the Messner Mountain Museum Firmian located within Sigmundskron Castle. Just 4 miles southeast of Bolzano’s city center, this museum explores the relationship between man and mountain as inspired by the legendary climber Reinhold Messner (check out this piece about why Messner is the world’s great living man).
Next, you can climb up to the ancient ruins of Schloss Rafenstein, which watch over the city. Enjoy some of the South Tyrolean treats you picked up earlier as you take in the views.
Then race over to Castel Roncolo (Schloss Runkelstein), also known as the Painted Castle (note: the castle is also accessible from the Talvera-Promenade in the city center or the line 12 shuttle bus from Waltherplatz). This well-preserved 12th-century castle is literally illustrated. An abundance of frescoes graces its walls providing an eye-popping window to medieval life.
If you’re feeling inclined to embark on a wine tasting, Bolzano will enchant you with the exquisite Alpine wines of South Tyrol. More than 300 hectares (700+ acres) of vineyards encircle Bolzano. In fact, a saying you might hear while visiting is “Venice may swim on water, but Bolzano swims on wine.”
⇒ Plan Your Bolzano Visit: Grab our South Tyrol + Dolomites Travel Guide
An unforgettable place to explore this truth is a winery located deep within a mountain on the northern end of town. Intrigued? Read more about our tasting at Kellerei Bozen. Making a trek to this 100+-year-old icon of wine while visiting Bolzano is a must for wine and architecture lovers alike.
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#8 Dine & Sip the Evening Away
There is no shortage of exceptional evening dining options in and around Bolzano. Our recommendation is to voyage back to the city center to dine at the much-celebrated Restaurant Laurin located in the Parkhotel Laurin. Here, you can let the culinary magic of head chef Manuel Astuto dazzle your senses in an Art Noveau setting beautified with palm trees.
He is a master of fusing South Tyrol’s Mediterranean heart with the soul of the surrounding mountains. Some of the world’s biggest movie stars have come to crave his South Tyrolean creations. So much so that they fly him around the world to prepare meals at their private parties.
No matter where you choose to eat, be sure to order a glass of Lagrein as you’re in the home of this robustly flavored, but smooth wine.
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Additional Sights & Activities While Visiting Bolzano
If conquering castles is not your thing, consider acquainting yourself with the natural beauty around Bolzano. One option is to catch the Renon (also known as Ritten) cable car. It whisks you high above Bolzano to the Renon high plateau.
From up here, you can hike a variety of trails and consume wide-open views of the Dolomites’ Rosengarten and Schlern massifs. You can also trek to the surreal 25,000-year-old Earth pyramids. These odd natural formations look like stone thorns steeping the mountainside.
The San Genesio cable car offers a climb to even more hiking paths. This is the ancestral home to the Haflinger horse which is a blonde horse breed born in the mountains of South Tyrol. Visit nearby stables and book a horseback ride or let someone else take the reins and enjoy the views from a horse-drawn carriage. Numerous alpine huts dot the trails allowing you to stop for a meal and a drink.
If you would like to squeeze in a visit to the Dolomites while in Bolzano, consider making the short trip to Lago di Carezza (also known as Karersee). Known as Italy’s “Lake of Rainbows”, Lago di Carezza sits in a hollow beneath the mighty Latemar and Rosengarten massifs. From Bolzano, you be standing on its shore in 30-40 minutes by taking the Great Dolomites Road.
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Where to Stay in Bolzano
You will not find a sterile, cookie-cutter place to stay in Bolzano. Like the city itself, the accommodations available are captivating and unique in character. Whether you are seeking an opulent old-world gem or an intimate bed and breakfast, there is a hotel to suit your tastes and budget. Here are two we recommend.
Parkhotel Laurin – As we noted above, Parkhotel Laurin is tucked in the heart of Bolzano making it ideal for exploring every lovely corner of the town on foot. Built in 1910 in stunning Art Noveau style, the hotel is a feast for the eyes inside and out. It is surrounded by a gorgeous garden enveloping you in nature and history all at once.
⇒ BOOK A STAY AT PARKHOTEL LAURIN HERE
Il Battente 1862 Bed & Breakfast – Il Battente 1862 is an elegant Bed & Breakfast located in an 18th-century building that was a former residence of the Teutonic Order. It is located just minutes away from the Waltherplatz while also allowing you to quickly reach the Renon and San Genesio cable cars to visit the surrounding mountains.
⇒ BOOK A STAY AT IL BATTENTE 1862 HERE
Getting to Bolzano
If you’re holidaying in other northern Italy destinations such as Verona, Venice, Lake Garda, Trento or even Lake Como, consider visiting Bolzano. The city is easy to fit into your trip plans. It’s just 1 to 3 hours away by car, bus or train.
The Bolzano train station (Stazione di Bolzano / Bozen Bahnhof) is one of the most conveniently located in Europe. In less than 5 minutes, you can walk from the station to Bolzano’s main square, the Waltherplatz, highlighted above. In addition, there is a bus stop located next to the station.
For those who prefer the independence of having their own automobile, you will be rewarded with one of the most scenic drives in Italy. Arriving in Bolzano by car is utterly gorgeous. Whether you come from the north or south, you will drive by a treasure of historic marvels clinging to the mountainsides. Check out our guide on driving in Italy to ensure you’re ready to handle the Italian roads.
Parking in Bolzano
Like every other major city and town in Europe, parking in Bolzano can be challenging. As Bolzano is very walkable, we recommend parking on the outskirts of the city center to avoid congestion.
The Parcheggio Mareccio is a convenient parking lot located off Via Claudia de’ Medici with the 13th-century Maretsch Castle as its backdrop. The castle is now an event center, but tourists can visit when events are not taking place. Its tower boasts one of the best views of Bolzano.
From this Bolzano parking lot, you can easily be in the city center within a 10-minute walk. On your way back to your car, opt for a scenic stroll along the “Meadows of Talvera”, a beautiful park set along the river Talvera.
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Book a Private Tour of Bolzano
We embarked on a private tour on our first visit to Bolzano. In addition to seeing the sights we highlighted above, a private tour will give you a deeper dive into Bolzano’s riveting history, culture and cuisine from the unique perspective of a local. Furthermore, a local tour guide will be able to share the best things to do in Bolzano based on the month and season of your visit.
From our experience, one of the best ways to truly appreciate a destination is through its culinary traditions. You can enjoy such a mouth-pleasing adventure with the Bolzano Street Food Tour. This 3-hour outing begins at 10:00 a.m. and includes multiple stops where you’ll indulge in local specialties such as bread, sausage, sweets, as well as historical nuggets shared by your tour guide.
Book a Tour from Bolzano to the Dolomites
In addition to spending time strolling Bolzano’s cobblestoned avenues, consider booking a tour of the Dolomites. The below tours depart from Bolzano to the Dolomites providing an affordable and convenient way to experience the jaw-dropping natural beauty of South Tyrol.
Personalized Bolzano Itinerary
If you would like us to craft a personalized itinerary for your trip to Bolzano and South Tyrol, check out our trip planning services. We will help you embark on an amazing adventure in the region, tailoring sights and activities to your interests, as well as share insider tips on how to enjoy more unforgettable “WOW” moments.
The Ötzi photos are provided courtesy of the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology.
Beautiful region! I love the mix of German and Italian culture…not to mention the beautiful mountains! I shall be back!
Great to hear you loved Bolzano! Thank you for commenting.
How lovely this place is! I really love how beautiful an colorful the culture and some touch of the history as you discover Bolzano. I am really stunned how majestic the mountains are and how beautiful autumn is in Bolzano. I love all of the pictures!
You had me at Dolomites!!! But I truly hadn’t heard much about this area before. Bolzano has such charming streets indeed. Ahhhh so many places in Italia that keep making me want to just move there and live out my days
Gosh, I want to go to Bolzano now to see Otzi. And the square and eat Krapfen. It looks exactly like the type of town I like, historic and beautiful, and what a fabulous setting.
The iceman has a striking resemblance to people of today. Fascinating!! What a gorgeous and idyllic town. I don’t know much about Tyrol and the Italian Dolomites, and it seems like a place I need to explore. Great read and wonderful introduction to the region.
I was in a Tyrolean Ski town end of last summer. But this place looks amazing and not a bit like the town I wen to. I dare say it is because of the mixed culture dominated by Italian.
One of my favorite countries to discover and get lost! Still didn’t have a chance to reach Dolomites, but I would like to have a nice coffee break for at least 3 hours with a nice view!
A wonderful town for having coffee while enjoying the beautiful views of the mountains. It is so interesting to know the combination of Australian and Italian culture that’s why I really enjoyed your post. Thank’s for sharing this post!
What a place!! And such a comprehensive post – you wrote about everything! I’m pinning it for the future – if I’m ever around I will have some useful tips:)
This looks like such an amazing place! Your photos and write-up really captures it well. Thanks for sharing
This city is gorgeous!!! It is a gem indeed. =) I am always looking for new places to explore, and Bolzano is going on my list. Wow! Those views of the alps are stunning, and I LOVED learning about the city’s architecture and history. This is such a fabulous post. Now I am anxious to travel.
Wow! It looks like such a beautiful place filled with history and culture. Thanks for sharing!
Northern Italy is the only part of Italy we have not spent a lot of time in. We are going to Switzerland this year and will get very close to this Dolomite area. Your blog post makes me wish we had planned a little more time to wander in the Dolomites. We will definitely look at the Bolzano Bozen Card. A food tour sounds like a great way to start. And would give me the energy to head up the San Genesio cable car.
Hope you can find the time to visit South Tyrol on your trip to Switzerland. The Swiss Alps are amazing but the Dolomites are other worldly!
It all looks beautiful. I’m in the process of scheduling to attend a yoga retreat and I think I’ve chosen one in Italy.
Your pictures are gorgeous! They made me want to know more about the place and plan a visit soon 🙂
I’d love to get to Bolzano during asparagus season. Spring seems like an ideal time to get to Northern Italy. One question: What’s a krapfen?
Spring is a lovely time to visit! Krapfen is a delicious jelly filled pastry.
Some of those photos look like they’re straight out a fairy tale! What a beautiful destination!
That looks so beautiful! A charming town surrounded by green hills, mountains, and a clear sky, excuse me while I go day dream!
I’ve been thinking about hiking in the Dolomites and this looks like a perfect stop before/ after! Also, I love that there’s an app to guide you around the city. Thanks for sharing!
I love the idea of the old and the new(er!) so eclectically mixed together, it looks beautiful! I wish I had seen your post before our trip to Venice and I would have added this on- but now it gives me a perfect excuse to go back!
Hope you can make it back Hazel! Bolzano and South Tyrol are easy to get to from Venice. We recommend renting a car. It is a beautiful drive plus you’ll have the freedom to go where you please.
Oh I am so in love. It’s on my to do list to make a month long trip along all the different ski towns along Austria and Germany. I think I will def add this to that list!
Okay, SOLD! This place looks beautiful. The whole area is on my list to visit but I’ve never researched the specific places! Once I’m back in Europe this is probably going to be first on the list!
Wow, it looks so beautiful! Italy is on my bucket list. Hope to make it there next summer. Great photos!
Such beautiful pictures. I love all the architecture. My husband has been talking about going to Italy forever. Neither of us have ever been.
Bolzano looks magical. Your photos makes me wanna book a flight! I can’t wait to explore it myself.
It’s been sooo long since I’ve been in Italy and Bolzano looks so gorgeous. I am adding to my bucket list. Gorgeous photos by the way 🙂
What an absolutely beautiful and gorgeous place to be able to visit!! It looks absolutely enchanting!!!
This is going on my list of must sees when I go to Italy!
That is such a beautiful city. I need to go there when ever I get a chance to travel. Beautiful photography as well.
First of all, this is a BEAUTIFUL blog! I’ve never been to the Dolomites, but I’ve been thinking about it for a family trip. Your photos make it seem like such a great place to explore!
certainly, an awesome destination to go for travelling. i love the photos. thanks for sharing your journey 🙂
Never heard of this place but it looks and sounds cool! The Bolzano pass seems awesome and I like to just sit back and people watch. Look at the world go by.
Never heard of Bolzano but it sounds like a very charming little town in South Tyrol. A street food tour sounds like something that is right up my alley! I am so intrigued to read about Otzi being mummified naturally by glacial ice!
Glad we could introduce you to this amazing place! Hope you get a chance to visit someday. You will fall in love with “Italy of the North”!
Italy is my absolute favorite! We were there in January; I loved visiting during the winter months (the hot chocolate is everything). We didn’t make it to Bolzano, but I need to next time. I definitely want to to go to the Castel Roncolo!
Wow such a hidden gen gem of Italy. I wish I knew of this place during my 11 days tour of Italy. The mountain top castle is so magical. The old streets are so charming. Hope I get a second chance to visit Italy just to visit this town.
What a lovely place! really love all your photos. Need to make a stop there next time I go to Italy
Thank you Serena! We hope you get to Bolzano on your next visit!
This definitely looks like my kinda place! What a gorgeous destination in Italy. Sounds like the Bolzano Bozen Card really pays off and offers tremendous opportunities. I would want to visit the castles you mentioned and try out the yummy cuisine.
Oh I love the look of Bolzano. I’ve visited Riva Del Garda and the surrounding area a few times – the other side of the Dolomites, but not so far. Now I want to go to Bolzano too and pay my respects to Ötzi the Iceman!
Darcee spent a little time in Tyrol in Innsbruck and Mieders last year and absolutely loved it. Between the old cities and the beautiful outdoor activities along the mountains we were in heaven. Wish I had heard of Bolzano while we were there because this part near the Dolomites looks amazing. Love all the old town streets and buildings of Bolzano. I bet the food there was off the hook cause we loved the Food of Tyrol.
Hope you guys can get back to the area. The town is a foodie’s treasure chest! Bring your appetite!
I’m a total history nerd so I would go there just to see the ice man! And then stay to eat krapfens and drink wine! Haha! But seriously, Bolzano looks amazing and like such a charming town. I’d love to visit when I return to Italy.
Wow! And here I thought my fave things about Italy were the great food and cute streets- didn’t even realize you could also enjoy all that with a mountain backdrop as well!!! Great post.
Thanks Tamara. This part of Italy has some of the most amazing mountains in the world. Nothing else like it on the planet!
I love mountain towns! I was in Mestia, Georgia, last year, and the scenery in Bolzano is equally stunning!