A cultural melting pot and cosmopolitan microcosm
Bolzano/Bozen started to develop in the Middle Ages. Today, it’s the South Tyrolean city where the Italian and German cultures mix more intensely. The result is a fascinating and extraordinary cultural bleding that is reflected in the language of people, in traffic signs, restaurants and in the historical and artistic landmarks of the city. Experience Bolzano's multicultural and vibrant atmosphere during your holiday in South Tyrol.
Bolzano Christmas market it's the oldest and largest Christmas market in the region. With more than 70 stands laying out handcrafted products and local foods, a varied program with shows and concerts, the festively decorated Christmas tree and the joy-filled eyes of children, the old center of Bolzano becomes a fairytale during Advent.
The blending of cultures is fascinating in Bolzano and it's reflected in the vibrant lifestyle, in the city’s architecture and in its diverse cultural scene. One of the best ways to experience this enriching diversity is in the gastronomy: getting an espresso at a cafè or an aperitivo when you can call it a day is an ancient custom in South Tyrol. Bolzano has also an excellent reputation among students and has been ranked as one of the best in Italy: the University of Bolzano includes trilingual degree courses and enjoys a high levevel of internationalisation.
The location of South Tyrol's capital city rarely goes unnoticed. Nestled between the Dolomites, the landscape also covers wine-growing areas: it goes without saying that the city's alpine-mediterrean features make the atmosphere pleasant and charming. Bolzano's history can be traced back to Roman times and the city was ruled by different populations. Its history is rich it can be put together while looking closely at the architecture, cultures and traditions.
The favourable conditions of the Mediterranean climate are perfect for staying in the sun while roaming on Piazza Walther square, having an aperitivo or shopping. The lively streets of Bolzano's downtown and the sun-drenched promenades are ideal to collect some lasting memories of the most popular spots. And if you are eager to admire Bolzano and surrounding area from above, take the Ritten/Renon cable car to the Ritten high plateau and the Kohlerer Berg mountain. It's a sustainable travel that reaches the altitude of 1,000 m above sea level in the blik of an eye.
Bolzano and vineyards are joined at the hips: wine has thrived in the Bolzano basin for a very long time. In fact, the climatic and soil factors are favorable for fine grape juice. The native Lagrein red wine has velvety tannins and grows best on the alluvial gravel soils of the Eisack, Etsch and Talfer rivers, which meet in the capital city. The fine and fruity St. Magdalener is cultivated on the sunny slopes of St. Magdalena, Justina and Leitach. The saying "Venice floats on water, Bolzano on wine" could astonish you at first. Bolzano is not only one of the largest wine-growing communities in South Tyrol which is part of the Alto Adige Wine Road. It's also one of Europe's largest wine-producing cities . Every spring, the South Tyroleans gather at the Maretsch Castle for the Bolzano Wine Tasting. You can also experience Bolzano's wine culture in the countless cellars and wineries and people interested in architecture should definitely take a visit the Bolzano Winery.
Whether you're in the company of your partner, friends or family, there's much beauty to discover during your shopping experience in the South Tyrolean cities. After seeing the artfully decorated facades, arcades and bay windows of the historic city centre, you'll be hooked. Walk into the shops and boutiques to have a glimpse of the Italian fashion: branded sporting goods, leather bags and shoes, traditional arts and crafts. When your shopping tour will be over and your stomach empty, you can book a table in one of the many pizza places, traditional family-run, starred or international restaurants.
Check out our weather forecast in Bolzano and planning your vacation in South Tyrol will be easier. And if you want to go up in the mountains, our weather forecast informs you about visibility, sunrise, sunset and zero-degree isotherm.
If you have a knack for relaxing moments, then take a train or bus. Once you get to South Tyrol, you have plenty of transfer options to reach the train or bus stations and your accommodation. The region's efficient and reliable transport system will get you around effortlessly.
You can reach Bolzano, South Tyrol's provincial capital, from all major cities. Connecting trains, buses, taxis or the "Südtirol Transfer" shuttle will take you directly to your holiday accommodation.
With the Bolzano Bozen Guestcard, it is easy and affordable to discover the city. The card will be given to you by your host and authorises you to visit museums and use all public transport for free.
Check your email, confirmation has been sent.
