Bolzano​

Latest page update: 12 January 2025
By Dion Protani
The city of Bolzano (Bozen in German) is the capital city of the Province of South Tyrol with a population of 107,739. Standing at an elevation of 262 metres above sea level, it covers a total area of 53 km² and lies 60 kilometres north of Trento, the regional capital of the Trentino Alto-Adige South Tyrol region.

Over the years, the city's most visited building has been its Gothic cathedral but more recently, the South Tyrol Archaeological Museum has stolen some of the limelight with its star attraction: Otzi the Ice-Man, a 3,500 year old mummy discovered in 1991.
Bolzano is famous throughout Italy for its Christmas market which draws visitors from far and wide. ​The busiest area of the city is around Piazza Walther (named after German poet Walther Von de Vogelweide), which in essence marks the city centre. 
Related links
Bolzano • Bozen • South Tyrol • Historic Mountain City
Bolzano is a charming city located in the South Tyrol region of northern Italy, nestled between the Dolomite Mountains. The city blends Italian and Austrian influences, reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and cultural heritage. Known for its picturesque setting, Bolzano is surrounded by lush vineyards, orchards, and rugged mountain landscapes, offering visitors a perfect balance of natural beauty and urban life. The city’s historic centre features narrow streets, colourful buildings, and lively squares, creating a welcoming atmosphere for those exploring the area.

Visitors to Bolzano can enjoy exploring its historic landmarks, including the Cathedral of Bolzano, with its distinctive Gothic architecture, and the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology, which is home to the famous Ötzi the Iceman. The city is also known for its markets, particularly the Christmas markets, which attract visitors from all over the world. Outdoor enthusiasts can take advantage of the surrounding mountains, with hiking, skiing, and cycling opportunities available throughout the year, offering stunning views of the region’s natural beauty.
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Bolzano is well-connected, with easy access to the nearby town of Merano, known for its thermal baths, and the Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The region also offers a mix of Italian and Austrian cultural influences, with local vineyards producing some of the best wines in Italy. Visitors can easily combine a trip to Bolzano with exploring the surrounding countryside, mountain resorts, and charming alpine villages.
 Highlights and nearby attractions
  • Ötzi the Iceman: One of Bolzano's most famous archaeological finds is Ötzi the Iceman, a remarkably preserved prehistoric man dating back over 5,000 years. The South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology in Bolzano houses his remains and provides insights into the life and times of this ancient individual.
  • Piazza Walther: This lively square in the heart of the city is surrounded by historic buildings with intricate facades. It's a great place to enjoy a leisurely stroll, people-watch, or relax at one of the many cafes.
  • Bolzano Cathedral (Dom St. Walburga): This Gothic cathedral is a prominent landmark and features an impressive mix of architectural styles. Its highlights include a stunning rose window and intricate sculptures.
  • Museion - Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art: Bolzano's contemporary art museum showcases a diverse collection of modern artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and multimedia installations.
  • Renon Cable Car: For breathtaking views of the Dolomite Mountains and Bolzano itself, take a ride on the Renon Cable Car. The cable car journey offers a unique perspective of the city and its surroundings.
  • Castel Roncolo: Also known as Runkelstein Castle, this medieval fortress is located just outside the city and is adorned with a series of well-preserved frescoes depicting scenes from medieval life.
  • Local Cuisine: Bolzano is known for its delicious culinary offerings that reflect its Austrian and Italian influences. Don't miss out on trying traditional dishes like knödel (dumplings) and strudel, accompanied by the region's renowned wines.
  • Outdoor Activities: The surrounding Dolomite Mountains provide ample opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking, skiing, and mountaineering are popular activities, especially during the winter months.
Comune di Bolzano
Stadt Bozen
​​Province: ​Bolzano

Region: Trentino Alto-Adige South Tyrol

Population: 106,564 (in 2024 - source)

​Total size: 52 km²

Elevation: 262 metres

Top sights: Bolzano Cathedral, Piazza Walther, Otzi the Ice-Man

Recommended accommodation: Parkhotel Laurin

​Close by: Renon, Castelrotto, Chiusa, Ortisei, Siusi allo Sciliar

Bolzano  Travel

Such is the size of the city centre that you can easily get around on foot. Public transport options include local buses as well as the main train station which is a 5 minute walk from Piazza Walther (Waltherplatz in German). By train you can reach Trento in 51 minutes, Merano in 43 minutes or Bressanone in half an hour. 

​By car, Trento is 52 minutes away (60 km) while other notable destinations include: Canazei - 1 hour 10 minutes (50 km), Riva del Garda - 1 hour 30 minutes (106 km) and Lake Braies - 1 hour 48 minutes (101 km).

The two most convenient airports for Bolzano are Innsbruck (in Austria) which is 121 kilometres to the north (1 hour 44 minutes) or Verona Airport 152 km (1 hour 43 minutes) to the south. ​
Public transport: ​​Central train station, local buses

​By car: Trento -52 mins (60 km), Canazei - 1 hr 10 mins (50 km)
Fly to: Verona Airport - 1 hour 39 minutes (152 km)

​By train: Bressanone - 30 mins, Merano - 43  mins, Trento - 44 mins
Connected to the Italian High Speed Train Network

Bolzano​​  Gallery

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