Bolzano is an elegant and authentic Alpine city, where culture, nature and quality of life coexist in perfect balance. Located in the heart of South Tyrol, it is an ideal destination for a city break combining history, gastronomy and direct access to the Dolomites.
Often considered just a gateway to the mountains, Bolzano is in fact a complete destination: compact, easy to explore even without a car, well connected and perfect for both a weekend getaway and longer stays. Its bilingual character, Italian and German, is reflected in its architecture, traditions and lifestyle.
What to see in the historic centre and what to do in Bolzano
The historic centre of Bolzano is compact and rich in attractions, ideal to explore on foot.
Walther Square
Walther Square is the heart of the city and one of its most iconic places. Surrounded by cafés and historic buildings, it is the perfect starting point for discovering Bolzano. In winter, it hosts the famous Bolzano Christmas Market.
Bolzano Cathedral
The Cathedral of Bolzano, dedicated to the Assumption of Mary, is the city’s main landmark. Its Gothic architecture, decorated roof and slender bell tower make it one of the most recognisable churches in South Tyrol.
The Arcades
The Arcades of Bolzano are the city’s historic shopping street. Beneath the medieval arches you’ll find shops, traditional businesses and historic cafés, as well as important buildings such as the Mercantile Building.
South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology
The South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology is home to Ötzi, the Iceman. It is one of the most important cultural attractions in the Alpine region and a must-see in Bolzano.
Fruit Market Square
Fruit Market Square is one of the liveliest squares in the city. A daily market sells fruit, vegetables and local products, offering an authentic taste of the region.
Castles and surroundings
Just outside the city centre are Maretsch Castle, surrounded by vineyards, and Roncolo Castle, famous for its medieval frescoes. Both are easy to reach and enrich Bolzano’s cultural offering.
Churches and religious sites
Bolzano preserves important examples of sacred art, reflecting the city’s spiritual and historical heritage.
The Franciscan Church and Monastery is one of the most significant religious complexes in Bolzano, featuring a large Gothic cloister and medieval frescoes.
The Dominican Church is renowned for the Chapel of St. John, decorated with one of the most important Gothic fresco cycles in the Alpine region.
Other noteworthy churches include:
- Capuchin Church
- St. George’s Church
- St. John in the Village Church
- St. Martin in Kampill
- Gries Abbey Church
- Old Parish Church of Gries
- St. Magdalene’s Church in Prazöll
- St. Vigil Chapel and Calvary Church, panoramic devotional sites overlooking the city
Places of remembrance
Bolzano is also home to important sites of remembrance linked to the 20th century and the Second World War.
- Manlio Longon and Giannantonio Manci, symbols of anti-fascist resistance
- Bolzano Transit Camp, recalling the Nazi concentration camp
- Virgolo Tunnel – forced labour
- Via Pacinotti railway track – deportations
- Church of St. Pius X, dedicated to camp remembrance
- Memorial plaque to Josef Mayr-Nusser
- Victory Monument
- Residential complex in Via Armando Diaz, example of Fascist-era architecture
Local products and cuisine
A holiday in Bolzano is also a journey through South Tyrolean flavours, blending Alpine tradition with Mediterranean influences.
Typical products include:
- dumplings (Knödel)
- South Tyrol PGI speck
- Schlutzkrapfen
- apple strudel
- local wines such as Lagrein and Gewürztraminer
Markets, traditional inns and gourmet restaurants showcase the region’s culinary identity.
Best time to visit Bolzano
The best time to visit Bolzano depends on the experiences you’re looking for, as the city is attractive all year round.
- Spring: mild temperatures, blossoms, riverside walks and events like the Flower Festival and Bolzano Wine Show
- Summer: ideal for combining city life and nature thanks to cable cars to Renon, San Genesio, Alpe di Siusi and Val d’Ega
- Autumn: season of Törggelen, new wine and colourful vineyards
- Winter: magical atmosphere with the Bolzano Christmas Market and easy access to Dolomite ski resorts
Where to stay in Bolzano
The best areas to stay in Bolzano are the historic centre and nearby green neighbourhoods.
Choosing a hotel in Bolzano city centre allows you to explore on foot and fully enjoy city life.
- Hotel Greif: boutique hotel overlooking Walther Square
- Parkhotel Laurin: historic hotel with private park and swimming pool
How many days to spend in Bolzano
- 2 days: historic centre and main museums
- 3–4 days: castles, plateaus and nearby excursions
- 5 days or more: perfect as a base for exploring the Dolomites
How to get to Bolzano
Getting to Bolzano is easy thanks to excellent connections.
- By train: frequent connections from Verona, Trento, Bologna and Milan
- By car: via the A22 Brenner Motorway, exits Bolzano North or South
- By bus: long-distance routes connect Bolzano with many Italian and European cities
Thanks to its strategic location, Bolzano is an ideal base for exploring the Dolomites sustainably.
