Brixen/Bressanone

Stroll down the alleys and streets of Brixen and start your time travel: the baroque Cathedral of Brixen rises in the city centre. A few steps away, the Hofburg stands as a landmark of Brixen's past as an ecclesiastical principality, while at the confluence of  the Eisack and Rienz rivers is located Stufels, Brixen's oldest district. As soon as you start wandering around the city, it cannot go unnoticed that the episcopal city skillfully combines historic buildings with a contemporary flair. Streets are filled with bars and typical inns and many are the sporting and cultural events which enliven the city.

Brixen is the capital of the Eisacktal valley, which has served as a trade route between north and south for centuries. Its role of linking different places, is reflected in the Alpine-Mediterranean cuisine and Brixen's landmark: a fresco on the Hotel Elephant's façade commemorating the elephant that on its journey from Valladoid to Vienna, stopped in Brixen in 1552 to be presented to the emperor. Go on a hike or bike tour to explore the picturesque spring landscape around Brixen. Cable cars shuttle you up to incredible summits to enjoy sprawling alpine views. What's more, the Valle Isarco wine - from the northernmost wine-growing region in Italy - it's a safe bet for refreshing moments of happiness.

Make your holiday in South Tyrol a richer experience: go shopping in South Tyrol's towns. At the foot of the Plose mountain, where the baroque Cathedral is located, a lively shopping world opens up to you. Streets are lined with shops selling leather goods, local specialties, arts and crafts objects and art galleries. Once your shopping day is over, you can stop at one of the many inns to taste some of the best wines of Valle Isarco, in the vicinity of Brixen.