Brunico: itinerary among historic palaces and Christmas markets

Brunico is the heart and the main center of Val Pusteria, and it will charm you with its picturesque old town, overlooked by the castle witnessing the noble past of this place. An ideal spot for those looking for a journey in culture and history, without forgetting shopping and the traditional Christmas market!

Brunico has been the only city in Val Pusteria for a long time, and soon it turned to an economic, commercial and cultural center. The recent history of the city begins in the year 1256, when its name was mentioned for the first time: it became the seat of the bishop's administration and the city walls and the castle were built. This was commissioned by Bruno von Bullenstätten to protect the city treasure.
In the following centuries a blooming trade developed in Brunico. And then tourism, with excellent facilities, and a lively cultural activitiy, involving also the hamlets: San Giorgio, Stegona, Villa Santa Caterina, Teodone and Riscone.

Strolling in its lanes, you could do an interesting historic itinerary. For example, you can admire the main road, with a medieval structure, the gate of St. Floriano... The city tour can be crowned by a visit to the ethnographic museum in Teodone and to the town museum. You should also have a look at the typical shops in the city center, with many specialties and local craft products and food.

The city can be visited all year round. Anyway, the best time to discover it is during the Christmas period, when the traditional Christmas market takes place: the main square and Via Bastioni are liven up by colored stands, lights and scents of cinnamon.

Lying in a central position in Val Pusteria, the city is an ideal starting point to reach the Plan de Corones ski area in winter and different hiking paths in summer.
Furthermore in the hamlet of Riscone you will find Cron4, a facility including an indoor pool, a green area, sauna, wellness and restaurant, ideal to cool down in summer, and a 9-hole golf course.
In October, don't miss the traditional festival in Stegona, the biggest market in Tyrol. 
Furthermore a mountain bike track of medium difficulty surrounds the city.