Bolzano is a great base for Dolomites adventures—so much so that we start many of our northern Italy trips here. Nestled in the heart of South Tyrol, Bolzano blends Austrian, Italian and Ladin influences in everything from its architecture and cuisine to its language and traditions. Historically, Bolzano was called Bozen, and less than a century ago it was entirely German-speaking.
Surrounded by the Dolomites—some of Europe’s most spectacular mountains—it’s a city that feels both cosmopolitan and close to nature, making it an inspiring starting or ending point for a Backroads trip.
Where We Visit
Here are some of the Bolzano and Dolomites experiences we highlight on our Backroads Hiking & Walking, Biking and Multi-Adventure trips:
- Hiking and biking through the UNESCO World Heritage Dolomites, where jagged limestone peaks rise dramatically above rolling meadows.
- Traveling scenic mountain roads and trails, passing vineyards, orchards and Alpine villages where Austrian, Italian and Ladin cultures intersect.
- Sampling regional specialties, from Alpine cheeses and dumplings to Italian espresso and South Tyrolean wines.
Pre- & Post-Trip Ideas: What to Do in Bolzano
Bolzano is a great place to stay before or after a Backroads trip. With its charming city center, excellent museums and easy access to the mountains, you’ll find plenty to fill a day or two.
Best of Bolzano in a Day
Morning: Start in Piazza Walther, the city’s elegant main square, framed by cafés and dominated by the gothic cathedral of Bolzano. Wander through the medieval arcades of Via dei Portici, stopping to browse shops and taste local delicacies. Don’t miss the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology, where Ötzi the Iceman offers a glimpse into prehistoric life.
Afternoon: Take the Renon Cable Car up to the Ritten/Renon plateau, where you can hike among the famous earth pyramids and enjoy panoramic views of the Dolomites. Back in the city, stroll through the leafy Talvera riverside park or relax at a café with a glass of crisp Gewürztraminer wine.
Bolzano’s Culture & Nature
Morning: Visit the Museion, Bolzano’s striking contemporary art museum, or the South Tyrol Museum of Natural History, which highlights the unique geology and biodiversity of the Dolomites. History buffs can explore Castel Roncolo (Runkelstein Castle), known for its medieval frescoes.
Afternoon: Head into the vineyards surrounding Bolzano for a winery visit and tasting. Alternatively, take one of the cable cars that lift you from the city into Alpine landscapes within minutes—perfect for short hikes and stunning vistas.
Dolomites Pre- and Post-Trip Extensions
Bolzano makes a natural jumping-off point for Dolomite villages. Here are a few of our favorites. (Note that, depending on your itinerary, you may already be spending time in one or more of these spots on your Backroads adventure.)
Ortisei (Val Gardena)
30 minutes to an hour, depending on your mode of transport
Morning: Stroll the pedestrian-friendly village streets lined with woodcarvers’ shops and cozy cafés. Take the Seceda cable car for jaw-dropping views over the jagged Odle peaks.
Afternoon: Hike the Alpe di Siusi, Europe’s largest high-altitude meadow, where trails weave through rolling pastures and wildflowers with dramatic Dolomite backdrops.
Corvara (Alta Badia)
Between 1½ and 3 hours, depending on your mode of transport
Morning: Ride the Boé gondola for easy access to trails across the Sella Massif. This is also a cyclist’s paradise—famous for the Sella Ronda loop that connects mountain passes.
Afternoon: Sample Ladin cuisine in a mountain hut (rifugio), with specialties like cajincí (filled pasta) and barley soup. Explore the blend of Austrian and Italian culture unique to this Ladin-speaking valley.
Meran
Less than an hour by train or bus
Morning: Surrounded by vineyards and Alpine peaks, Meran blends Tyrolean heritage with an elegant spa-town feel. Stroll the historic arcades of the Altstadt, where pastel façades, cafés and local shops line the Laubengasse medieval shopping street.
Afternoon: Walk the scenic Tappeiner Promenade above town, an elevated path with views of the Adige Valley and surrounding mountains. In summer, leave time to linger in Meran’s gardens.
Bruneck
Between 1 and 2 hours by shuttle, train or bus
Morning: Bruneck is a great spot to experience mountain culture in a lively village. Stroll the colorful streets of the medieval center, overlooked by Bruneck Castle perched above the town.
Afternoon: Add a hike into the nearby Dolomites. Take a cable car into high Alpine terrain, where open meadows and jagged limestone peaks define the landscape.
Where to Stay
On Backroads trips, we stay in a selection of handpicked hotels in Bolzano and the Dolomites. For pre- and post-trip nights in Bolzano, we recommend:
- Parkhotel Laurin: A historic grand hotel with a lovely garden and central location near Piazza Walther.
- Hotel Greif: Stylish, art-focused and right on Piazza Walther, with sister property Parkhotel Laurin just next door.
- Magdalenerhof: A boutique retreat slightly outside the center, offering excellent food and a more relaxed setting.
For Dolomites extensions:
- Hotel Gardena Grödnerhof: A luxurious retreat with a spacious spa in the heart of Ortisei in Val Gardena.
- Hotel La Perla (Corvara): Family-run luxury with warm Ladin hospitality and stunning mountain views.
- Aman Rosa Alpina: An alpine sanctuary in San Cassiano that pairs Aman’s signature minimalist luxury with the warmth of a mountain lodge.
More Bolzano and Dolomites Tips
- Bolzano sits at 860 feet, but the Dolomite villages climb much higher—Ortisei is at 4,000 feet, and mountain passes soar above 7,000. Pack for changing weather and altitude.
- Italian, German and Ladin are all spoken. Learning a few greetings in each adds to the fun.
- Public transit is excellent: trains, buses and cable cars connect Bolzano with surrounding valleys. A car can be useful if you’re hopping between villages, but it’s not essential.
- Culinary musts: in Bolzano, try speck and Lagrein wine; in the Dolomites, sample Ladin mountain dishes like strudel and Alpine cheeses.
