Mountain Towns of Italy
|
Latest page update: 18 January 2025
|
By Dion Protani
|
|
Within a huge expanse of territory covering the Alpine regions of the north, there are some wonderful mountain towns of Italy waiting to be discovered. Beautiful towns such as Bressanone in Trentino Alto Adige South Tyrol which is full of history and a mixture between Germanic and Italian cultures, are dotted throughout the Alps.
The towns can be enjoyed all year round; they're busy during the summer months as people base themselves in them for activity holidays while during the winters they come into their own with their skiing facilities. A typical feature among these towns is the colourful architecture; of brightly-painted or frescoed walls. |
Trento, Trentino Alto Adige South Tyrol
|
Related links
Trento
|
Trento is a picturesque city in northern Italy, situated in the Adige River valley within the Trentino-Alto Adige region.
Rich in history, it was the site of the Council of Trent (1545–1563), which was pivotal in the Counter-Reformation. Notable landmarks include the Buonconsiglio Castle, a medieval fortress with stunning frescoes, and the Trento Cathedral (Duomo di San Vigilio), known for its Romanesque architecture. The city is easily accessible by train from major cities such as Verona and Venice. Nearby, you can explore the majestic Dolomite Mountains, ideal for hiking and skiing, Lake Garda or the city of Bolzano. |
Trento, Trentino Alto Adige South Tyrol
|
Aosta
|
Aosta, nestled in the Italian Alps near the French and Swiss borders, is the capital of the Aosta Valley region.
Founded by the Romans in 25 BC as Augusta Praetoria, it boasts remarkable Roman ruins like the Arch of Augustus, Porta Pretoria, and a well-preserved Roman Theater. The Aosta Cathedral and Sant'Orso Church highlight its medieval heritage. Aosta is easily reached by train or car from Turin, about 100 km away. Nearby, visitors can explore Mont Blanc and Gran Paradiso National Park, offering hiking and skiing opportunities. The region is also famous for its Alpine cuisine and mountain villages. |
Piazza Émile Chanoux, Aosta
|
Bolzano
|
Bolzano, the capital of South Tyrol in northern Italy, is a cultural crossroads blending Italian and Austrian influences.
Known historically as a trade hub, it gained prominence under Habsburg rule. The city features the Gothic Bolzano Cathedral and the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology, home to Ötzi the Iceman, a 5,300-year-old mummy. Bolzano is accessible by train or car from Verona and Innsbruck airports. Surrounded by the Dolomites, it serves as a gateway to hiking, skiing, and the scenic wine route of Alto Adige. Nearby sights include the Renon Plateau, Merano and Bressanone. |
Piazza Walther, Bolzano
|
Bressanone
|
Bressanone (Brixen), in the South Tyrol region of northern Italy, is one of the country’s oldest towns, dating back to 901 AD.
It served as a religious and cultural center under the Prince-Bishops of Brixen. The city's highlights include the Baroque-style Bressanone Cathedral, the Hofburg Palace with its diocesan museum, and the picturesque Piazza Duomo. Accessible by train or car from Bolzano (40 km south), Bressanone lies near the Plose ski area, a hub for winter sports and summer hiking. Nearby, visitors can explore the medieval town of Vipiteno and the stunning Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage site. |
Bressanone, Trentino Alto Adige South Tyrol
|
Asiago
|
Asiago, located on the Asiago Plateau in the Veneto region of northern Italy, is renowned for its natural beauty and rich history.
The town was a key battlefield during World War I, commemorated at the Asiago War Memorial. Asiago is also famous for its namesake cheese, a staple of Italian cuisine. Visitors can explore the Observatory of Asiago for stargazing and enjoy hiking, skiing, and cycling in the local area. Nearby attractions include the Seven Municipalities Plateau, Monte Grappa, Bassano del Grappa and Marostica. |
Asiago, Veneto
|
Varallo Sesia
|
Varallo Sesia, located in the Piedmont region of northern Italy, is a charming town renowned for its artistic and religious heritage.
Founded in medieval times, it is home to the Sacro Monte di Varallo, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring chapels with life-sized sculptures and frescoes depicting biblical scenes. The historic center boasts picturesque streets, the Collegiate Church of San Gaudenzio, and art galleries. Varallo is accessible by car or regional train from Novara or Milan. Nestled in the Sesia Valley, it offers access to hiking and skiing in the Monte Rosa area and nearby natural wonders like the Sesia River. |
Varallo Sesia, Piedmont
|
Brunico
|
Brunico (Bruneck), in South Tyrol, northern Italy, is a charming alpine town with a rich medieval history.
Dominated by Brunico Castle, built in the 13th century, the town also features the renowned Messner Mountain Museum, which showcases the culture and history of mountain regions. Stroll through the vibrant Via Centrale with its colorful facades and shops. Brunico is easily accessible by train or car from Bolzano, about 70 km away. Surrounded by the Dolomites, it’s a gateway to Kronplatz, a top ski and hiking destination. Nearby attractions include the picturesque Valle Aurina and the serene Lago di Braies. |
Brunico, Trentino Alto Adige South Tyrol
|
Rovereto
|
Rovereto, in the Trentino region of northern Italy, is a historic town blending cultural heritage with natural beauty.
Known for its role during the First World War, it houses the Museo Storico Italiano della Guerra in its medieval castle. The MART (Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art) is a cultural highlight, showcasing significant works from the 20th century. Rovereto is accessible by train or car from Verona, about 70 km away. Surrounded by scenic valleys, it offers easy access to Lake Garda and the Brenta Dolomites. The town's historic streets and vibrant cultural scene make it a delightful destination. |
Rovereto, Trentino Alto Adige South Tyrol
|
Glorenza
|
Glorenza (Glurns), located in South Tyrol, northern Italy, is one of the smallest and best-preserved walled towns in Europe.
With origins dating back to Roman times, it flourished as a medieval trading post. Highlights include its intact city walls, three gate towers, and charming cobblestone streets lined with Renaissance-era buildings. The town's centerpiece is its picturesque main square, surrounded by arcaded houses. Glorenza is accessible by car or bus from Bolzano, about 80 km away. Nearby, visitors can explore the Resia Pass with its iconic submerged church tower in Lake Resia. |
Glorenza, Trentino Alto Adige South Tyrol
|
Belluno
|
Belluno, nestled in the Veneto region of northern Italy, is a gateway to the Dolomites and a charming blend of natural beauty and historical architecture.
Founded by the Romans, it became a key medieval trade hub. The historic center boasts landmarks like the Renaissance-style Palazzo dei Rettori, the Duomo di San Martino with its striking bell tower, and Piazza dei Martiri. Belluno is accessible by train or car from Venice, about 100 km away. Surrounded by the Dolomiti Bellunesi National Park, it offers hiking, skiing, and nature exploration. |
Belluno, Veneto
|
