Oh, Bolzano, how quickly you won me over! My expectations were pretty high, but as I started exploring, they were completely blown away. The pedestrian-only streets are charming, beautiful, and such a joy to wander through. The unique food scene? Incredible. The local white wine? Ugh, so dang good. I’m completely smitten with the incredible things Bolzano has to offer. Below, you’ll find a list of 15 of the best things to do in Bolzano, Italy. I truly hope it inspires you to visit and fall in love with this city like I did. So, keep scrolling for the 15 best things to do in Bolzano, Italy!
How to get to Bolzano, Italy?
The easiest way to get to Bolzano is to fly into one of the nearby airports, like Verona or Innsbruck, and then hop on a train to the city center. The train station is just a short walk from the heart of town. I flew into Verona from London and took a super scenic train ride to Bolzano—it was such a great way to kick off the trip!
We didn’t bother renting a car while we were there and honestly didn’t miss it. PLUS, with all the pedestrian-only streets, parking would’ve been a total hassle anyway.
Where to Stay in Bolzano, Italy
We stayed in an amazing apartment at Bogen, a cozy spot with a restaurant beneath it. We stayed in the yellow apartment, and it was perfect for 2 people! Each apartment has a private entrance right in the heart of Bolzano, on a pedestrian-only street lined with wine bars and historic buildings. A great spot for exploring the city. My favorite wine bar was just across the street. The apartment was spacious and comfortable, with a cozy seating area, a well-equipped kitchenette, had AC, and a large bathroom. It was the perfect place to relax and even get some work done. I absolutely loved our stay here, and if I make it back to Bolzano, this is the only place I’d stay!
Check out Bogen with booking.com. Want to see more stay options? Click here.
Map of Things to do in Bolzano, Italy
Best Things to do in Bolzano, Italy
Get Lost in Bolzano
Bolzano is a breathtaking city full of old-world charm. The main historic area is mostly pedestrian-only, making it perfect for getting lost and exploring. My favorite thing was simply getting lost in its narrow alleyways, lively squares, and arcade-lined streets. Wandering around after dinner, soaking in the city’s ambiance, was pure magic. It’s the perfect place to slow down and enjoy. Writing this makes me miss Bolzano’s charming streets.
Walk along Via Dei Portici
As you wander through Bolzano’s streets, be sure to spend some time on Via dei Portici. For over 1,000 years, this street has been the heart of trade and shopping in Bolzano. Arcades stretch along both sides, providing shade and shelter from the weather, while colorful and charming shops beg to be explored.
Enjoy Piazza Walther
Another must-stop on your Bolzano wanderings is Piazza Walther, likely the first spot you’ll see since it’s close to the train and bus stations. Built in 1808 under Bavarian rule, this lively square has been dedicated to the poet Walther von der Vogelweide since the 19th century, with his statue standing proudly at its center. The square is lined with inviting cafés and restaurants, perfect for people-watching, and it’s right across from Bolzano’s beautiful cathedral. Plus, you can grab a tasty coffee and Loacker wafer cookies at the Loacker Café on the square—yum!
Visit Bolzano Cathedral
Bolzano Cathedral is a stunning landmark in the heart of Bolzano, known for its beautiful Gothic architecture and intricate details. The roof is stunning and reminds me of the architecture in Burgundy, France. Inside, the cathedral honors Josef Mayr-Nusser, a local hero from World War II. Mayr-Nusser was a Bolzano native who bravely stood up to the Nazis by refusing to swear allegiance to Hitler due to his deep faith and principles. For this, he was imprisoned and later died during transport to Dachau. The way they highlighted him, his family and his sacrifice was a highlight during my time in the cathedral.
Visit the Outdoor Market
Another stop on your Bolzano walking tour is Piazza delle Erbe, a beautiful historic square dating back to 1277. Every day, a market fills the square with fresh herbs, spices, meats (definitely try the speck!), cheese, bread, and more—perfect for a leisurely stroll among the stalls. The architecture around the square is stunning, and there are plenty of nearby restaurants and bars to relax in.
Pay your Respects to a Difficult Past
As you wander the streets of Bolzano, you might notice small brass plaques set into the pavement in front of certain houses. These plaques are dedicated to Holocaust victims, bearing their names and often the concentration camps to which they were sent. Take a moment to pay your respects as you come across these somber reminders—each one honors the memory of those who once lived here.
Ritten Cable Car
My day trip starting with the Ritten Cable Car was one of my absolute favorites! Just a 10 minute walk from Bolzano’s historic center, the cable car whisks you up into the Alpine highlands and onto the scenic Ritten Plateau. The ride itself is worth it alone, with sweeping, gorgeous views of the mountains, small towns, and Bolzano below. Once at the top, you’ll have plenty of options for hiking, dining, and exploring charming villages. Even if you’re short on time, take a moment just to ride the cable car—the views are truly unforgettable.
Pro Tip: If you struggle with heights (like me), this might be a challenge. I found facing the direction we were moving helped trick my brain into thinking we weren’t that high up.
Ritten Railway
Once you arrive at Oberbozen/Soprabolzano via the Ritten Cable Car, your adventure can continue with a ride on the historic Ritten Railway. Running since the early 1900s, this quaint train offers a unique way to explore the Ritten Plateau, view the Dolomites and stop at charming villages. Each village has its own scenic hiking trails and cozy restaurants to enjoy. I rode until the very last stop-Klobenstein. I explored that small village, grabbed a coffee and went for a nice walk. (See below). I really loved using the train to explore the plateau and would highly recommend this as a day trip!
Fenn Promenade
At the final stop on the Ritten Railway, head toward the Zentral parking lot, where you’ll find the trailhead for the Fenn Promenade. This easy-to-moderate hike (some uphill sections) offers a peaceful walk through the woods with several benches along the way to catch your breath and take in the scenery. The trail features outstanding viewpoints of the Dolomites and the unique Earth Pyramids, making it well worth the effort. It’s a manageable 40-minute walk suitable for most skill levels and a perfect way to experience the natural beauty of the Ritten Plateau.
Visit a Wine Bar
One of Bolzano’s biggest surprises was the incredible white wine—I’m completely enamored with the local South Tyrol wine! For anyone wanting to experience this, a wine bar is the perfect place to start. I loved Lisa Wineboutique, which has a fantastic outdoor patio on a pedestrian-only street, perfect for people-watching. The owner and bartenders know their stuff and were spot-on in choosing wines based on my preferences. We even arranged a wine tasting, where the bartender guided us through the region’s wines.
Go to a Brewery
South Tyrol may be famous for its fantastic wine (which I’ve already raved about), but let’s not forget the region’s love for brewing beer! Bolzano has some great breweries that are perfect for soaking up a sunny day or ducking inside on a rainy one. I especially enjoyed Forsterbräu and Batzen Häusl—both offer a welcoming vibe, delicious brews, and a great taste of the local beer scene.
Say Hey to Otzi (South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology)
I’ll admit, I didn’t explore the entire museum—I had one goal: to see Ötzi the Iceman! Preserved in ice for over 5,300 years, Ötzi is displayed alongside his tools and clothing, offering a fascinating glimpse into life during the Copper Age. The cold cell that preserves him is equally intriguing and adds to the exhibit’s unique atmosphere. This is a must-visit in Bolzano! Even if you’re short on time, make it a priority to see Ötzi.
Pro Tip: If you’re visiting Bolzano in the height of summer, be sure to buy your tickets in advance and plan your visit for early morning or late afternoon to avoid the peak crowds.
Rent a Bike
Bolzano is incredibly bike-friendly, with well-maintained paths that wind through both the historic center and out to the stunning countryside. You can easily ride along the Talvera River, enjoy views of the surrounding mountains, or stop at vineyards and orchards just outside the city.
Take a Day Trip to Bressanone and Klausen
Bressanone (or Brixen) and Chiusa (Klausen) are both quick and easy train rides from Bolzano, making them perfect day-trip destinations. Bressanone, the oldest and arguably one of the most beautiful cities in South Tyrol, is a joy to explore with its narrow lanes, arcades, and lively squares. Much of the old town is pedestrian-only, making it a safe and relaxed place to wander. The colorful architecture and stunning cathedral add to its charm, while the shops and restaurants provide plenty to discover along the way. This is a great day trip spot from Bolzano.
While Bressanone is gorgeous, it was Klausen that completely won me over. This small riverside town is simply stunning, with its Gothic churches, narrow lanes, and charming facades. It has all the elements of a perfect small-town escape! And don’t miss Gassl Bräu—a fantastic brewery and pizza spot! Combining Bressanone and Klausen makes for an easy and wonderful day trip from Bolzano, giving some of the best of South Tyrol’s charm and beauty.
Visit Monumento della Vittoria
The Victory Monument in Bolzano has a complex history. Built in 1928 by Mussolini’s regime, it was a symbol of fascist power meant to solidify Italian rule over South Tyrol. Today, the monument stands as a reminder of a difficult past and has been reinterpreted as an educational site, with exhibits inside offering insight into the region’s history under fascism. It’s a thought-provoking stop that helps put South Tyrol’s unique Italian-German heritage into perspective.
Your Thoughts
Here are our picks for the best things to do in Bolzano, Italy! I absolutely loved my time in this charming city and can’t wait to go back. What are you most excited to see or do in Bolzano? Let me know in the comments below!
