Is Bolzano Worth Visiting: A Guide to Bolzano’s Highlights

When planning a trip to Italy, our minds often jump to the big cities such as Rome, Florence, Venice, and Milan. However, we often miss out on smaller cities where hidden gems are tucked away. In Northern Italy alone, you can already find several underrated cities waiting to be explored like Verona and Bergamo.

However, if you are looking for an experience that blends unique culture and stunning nature, some of best cities to visit are the ones nestled in the Italian Alps, like Trento and Bolzano.

In this article, we’ll talk about Bolzano and uncover the treasures that this city holds. I’ll present reasons why a visit to this city could be a rewarding experience for you. Should you choose to explore Bolzano, consider this post as your comprehensive guide to making the most of your time in this Alpine gem.

I must admit I was like the person I mentioned at the start, who didn’t pay much attention to the small cities when planning a trip to Italy. But as someone who often feels the call of the mountains, it wasn’t long before I came across Bolzano. It only took a few minutes of research before I stumbled upon this stunning alpine city on a map.

So, what’s the story behind Bolzano?

Briefly, this beautiful town is the capital of the province of South Tyrol and the Italian Alps’ bustling urban center. It’s the closest city to the breathtaking peaks of the Dolomites, hence its title as the Gateway to the Dolomites.

After exploring Bolzano, I can describe it as a charming town that deserves a quick visit for its fascinating museum exhibits, such as the ancient mummy of Ötzi, and its unique natural wonders, such as the Earth Pyramids. Bolzano also boasts a beautiful church, colorful houses with mural paintings, and nearby castles that some visitors enjoy exploring.

Bolzano may not have as many attractions as the big Italian cities, but it has the advantage of being close to some of the most scenic places in the Dolomites, such as Santa Magdalena and Seceda in Ortisei — the two stunning villages in the Dolomites that are only an hour and a half drive from Bolzano.

Bolzano can be a great base for visiting the Dolomites while having the comforts of a city.

1. Bolzano is the Gateway to the Dolomites

Let’s be honest, there’s no better reason to visit Bolzano than to bask in its breathtaking nature. Nestled among the mountains, Bolzano is surrounded by fresh, clean air that invigorates the body and soul. And the best part? The mountains also offer endless opportunities for adventure and fun, from leisurely hikes to heart-pumping paragliding.

And that’s just the beginning!

Bolzano is packed with exciting attractions, from mountain top medieval castles to dramatic gorges and more unique land formations. This city is full of exciting activities to keep you engaged during your stay, whether it’s just for a day or a few days longer.

Specifically, they are: the GEOPARC Bletterbach (a UNESCO Heritage Site), Maretsch Castle (Castel Mareccio), Runkelstein Castle (Castel Roncolo), and more. 

While Bolzano’s title, “the Gateway to the Dolomites”, might give a connotation that it’s just a transit hub to get to the Dolomites, the town itself has plenty of beautiful views to offer on its own. The city is nestled among mountains that are 1000 to 2000 meters (3280 to 6561 feet) high, and they will welcome you with their breathtaking scenery.

But indeed — if you’re looking for absolutely stunning mountain scenery, you should at least spend a day in Cortina d’Ampezzo. It’s the town called the Queen of the Dolomites for good reasons: It’s the town surrounded by some of the top attractions in the region.

If you like, you can visit two viewpoints close to Bolzano’s city center and see a more panoramic view of the area. They are Renon and Colle, and we’ll discuss them later. The cable car ride to these places is an amazing experience itself, as you’ll get to see the city and the valleys from above.

And what else will you spot on your way up apart from the city and the peaks? The vast vineyards that make some of the best wines in Bolzano.

2. Bolzano Has Italy’s Oldest and Largest Christmas Market

There is always something to do in Bolzano and the Dolomites, no matter what season it is. Even in winter, you can have fun with the snow and the culture of South Tyrol. The region has a lot of German and Austrian influence, which you can see clearly in the Christmas markets. You’ll love the glittering lights and the glamorous local products.

Bolzano’s Christmas market is particularly special. It’s the biggest and oldest in Italy, and it has a blend of German, Austrian, and Italian food and goods. You can also hear some European-style Christmas carols played live.

If you’re visiting Italy in the winter and want to try something different, don’t skip this market! It will be a great experience for sure. And make sure to taste some of the delicious treats like chocolate pretzel, Raclette, or Schaumkuss!

You can reach Bolzano’s Christmas market in Waltherplatz, the main square of the city, which is just a few minutes away from the train station by foot. Check the schedule of the Christmas Market in Bolzano here.

3. The Charming Historic City Center of Bolzano

Bolzano is a city that will satisfy your wanderlust, whether you explore its center or its outskirts.

But if you are an outdoor lover like me, you might be tempted to leave the city and head to the Dolomite mountains, where you can enjoy the breathtaking views and feel like you are on top of the world. It’s a feeling that words can’t describe, a feeling of awe and humility at the same time. You realize how small you are compared to the world.

But don’t skip the city center just yet. It has its own charm and attractions that are worth seeing.

You can visit some historic castles and interesting museums in Bolzano. And you can also have fun wandering around the city streets, admiring the architecture, finding quaint cobblestone lanes, and seeing how different cultures (German, Italian, and Austrian) blend together.

You can find historic city center tours, traditional food tours, and street food tours in Bolzano here.

The city center of Bolzano has four charming parts that you should visit. They are Piazza del Municipio Rathausplatz, Via dei Portici, Via dei Bottai, and Piazza Walther. These are also the most photogenic places in the city, so get your cameras ready!

Piazza del Municipio Rathausplatz is where the Townhall of Bolzano stands. It’s a small square, but it has a lot of beauty. Here, you can admire the flower-filled windows and the stunning bas-relief decorations on the town hall’s facade. You can also see the clock tower with its elegant spire.

Amazingly, it’s the square where two of the most beautiful lanes in Bolzano meet: Via dei Bottai and Via dei Portici. Via dei Bottai is where you can find some of the loveliest houses in Bolzano. It’s on the left side (or east) of the town hall. Go north or away from the town hall to see them.

It’s along Via dei Bottai that you will see the intricate and colorful Lüftlmalerei-painted facades. Lüftlmalerei is a kind of mural art that is popular in Tyrol and southern Germany. These murals depict the daily lives of the residents, their favorite saints, and more.

The street opposite the town hall of Bolzano is called Via dei Portici. It has many shops, restaurants, and boutiques under rows of arcades. This is also one of the most photogenic spots in Bolzano – just stay in the middle of the lane to see the stunning view.

Piazza Walther is the main square of Bolzano, and you should not miss it. It’s a spacious square that offers a refreshing view of the beautiful mountains around the city. But the main attraction here is the Bolzano Cathedral, which is a reason to visit Bolzano by itself.

You might also like these activities in Bolzano: a street food walking tour, a guided traditional food tour, a historical city center guided walking tour, and various activities in the Dolomites.

If you want to know more, here’s where you can find the details.

If you love exploring beautiful historic city centers, you should visit Bern. Its town center is a UNESCO heritage site, and it has many charming sights to see. You can find adorable fountains, amazing astronomical clocks, and more

4. See Noteworthy Architecture: Bolzano Cathedral

Bolzano Cathedral (Duomo di Bolzano) is a sight worth seeing in Bolzano, especially if you are interested in unusual architecture. Its distinctive roof and elaborate steeple are very eye-catching.

The history of this church goes back almost 850 years, when it was consecrated in 1180. It was originally built in Romanesque style, but it was rebuilt in Gothic style in the 14th century. Also known as Assumption of Our Lady Cathedral, this cathedral is the first Gothic church with a long central nave and two side naves built in the shape of a cross in the history of architecture.

The cathedrals in the main Italian cities may look more impressive than Bolzano Cathedral, but that doesn’t mean that the cathedral is not a reason to visit Bolzano.

Before you enter the cathedral from the side of Piazza Walther, you should also notice the entrance or portal called “Leitacher Törl”. It is one of the finest examples of High Gothic portals in Tyrol. And don’t forget to look up and see the gargoyles that resemble those of Notre Dame in Paris.

The single-pillar pulpit of the Bolzano Cathedral will catch your eye as soon as you step inside. It has a beautiful bas-relief that shows the four evangelists.

You will also be impressed by the cathedral’s interior, which has a splendid high altar and old murals. And oh, make sure to visit the Cathedral Treasury at the foot of the tower, where you can see some of the most sacred and precious religious items in Tyrol.

Some of these items are made of gold and silver, like the 136-centimeter (4.5 feet) monstrance that is made of 13 kilos of solid silver coated with gold. The cathedral is a must-see place for anyone who loves art and history in Bolzano.

If you want to visit the Bolzano Cathedral, you should know that it is open from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, with a break from 12:00 noon to 2:00 pm. Please see its official website for more information.

The Cathedral Treasury, however, is only open from 10:00 am to 12:00 noon. You can visit both places from Monday to Saturday.

By the way, are you interested in architecture, churches, and other historical sites? A few of my favorites are in France. They are the following: Sainte-Chapelle in Paris (it has extraordinary stained glass windows), Reims Cathedral in Reims (it is where the kings of France held their coronation), Strasbourg Minster in Strasbourg (it is one of the tallest in Europe), and La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière in Lyon (it has stunning interiors).

5. Museo de Arqueología del Tirol del Sur in Bolzano

Traveling can take us back in time when we see the old buildings and objects that have been preserved for centuries. In Bolzano, you can go even further back than the medieval times. You can meet Ötzi, the iceman, who lived in the copper age!

Ötzi is Europe’s oldest known natural human mummy, who was found in the Alps, near the border of Italy and Austria. He lived around 5000 years ago, between 3350 and 3105 BC. Now, he and his belongings are displayed on the third floor of the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology, which makes Bolzano and the museum famous among scientists and enthusiasts.

You don’t need to be an archaeology buff to appreciate the unique discovery that awaits you inside the museum. The exhibition is quite fascinating, drawing curiosity from any person regardless of age.

The museum is housed in a simple building on Via Museo, near the River Talfer and a short walk from Piazza Walther. The only clue to what’s inside is a tarp with a picture of a prehistoric man. Here is the exact location of the museum on Google Maps.

The museum has a mobile app audio guide that helps you understand the contents of the museum better. You can download the app and check the opening hours, admission, and requirements on the website of the iceman.

6. The Fairy Tale Castel Roncolo in Bolzano

If you look at the map, you will see that northern Italy is dotted with castles. Some of them are located by a lake, while others are perched on top of a hill. They all look magical and like something out of a fairy tale. That makes visiting the region even more appealing.

In fact, you can find more than 10 castles just around the city of Bolzano. Some of them are in ruins, but most of them are still intact. Some of the castles that are still standing are now used as event venues.

But which castle do I think is worth a visit? It’s Castel Roncolo, a stunning medieval castle from the 13th century that sits on a hill. It is also known as Runkelstein Castle in German.

North of the city of Bolzano, at the entrance of Sarentino Valley, you can find Castel Roncolo, a medieval castle from the 13th century. It is a 30-minute walk from Bolzano city center, but you can also take a shuttle bus from Piazza Walther.

Castel Roncolo is worth visiting for three reasons. First, it offers a breathtaking view. Second, it is a wonderful place to snap pictures and wander around, and third, it has amazing medieval frescoes that narrate stories.

Undeniably, the highlight of the castle is the frescoes in Roncolo Castle. They are known to be one of the most “comprehensive” fresco cycles of the middle ages, depicting the lives of the court ladies and the hunting scenes of the noblemen.

Some of them show stories from classic literature, like the adventures of King Arthur and his knights. The most impressive paintings are in the west wing of the castle.

You can check the official website of Roncolo Castle for visitor’s information, such as when it is open and how much it costs to enter. Make sure you read the whole page to find out about any special rules for visitors.

Roncolo Castle is just one of the scenic places you can easily visit from the city center. Renon and Colle are another two that offer breathtaking scenery, too. You can get to them even without a car. 

If you love castles, you should visit Southern Germany. It has some of the most beautiful castles in the world. Neuschwanstein Castle and Lichtenstein Castle are two of them, and they are both amazing.

7. Europe’ Tallest Earth Pyramids Are Near Bolzano

One of Bolzano’s most breathtaking and visited spots is Renon. This high plateau, which stands between 1000 to 1300 meters in elevation, is located in the northeast and overlooks the city.

Many come here to find some peace and go on wholesome nature walks. During spring or summer, Renon looks idyllic with its beautiful verdant vistas and stunning blue mountains in the background. 

Several villages are located in Renon, each connected by scenic hiking trails. These trails are well-marked and pass through woods, alpine pastures, and little lakes. In some parts, such as Trail B or the Panoramic Trail, you can witness a jaw-dropping 360-degree view of the Dolomite Alps. The view in Renon is enough to make it a must-visit place in Bolzano.

Below is a printable brochure from the official website of Renon, where all the information you need to visit Renon (peak) is written. 

For all the information you need on cable car ride prices, bus schedules, hiking trails, and more, be sure to check out the brochure. You’ll find details on trail length and difficulty, as well as bus stops, parking lots, and restaurant locations.

However, the real highlight of Renon has to be its earth pyramids — mysterious-looking cone-shaped pillars of clay, some topped with boulders. These unique natural formations are the tallest of their kind in Europe, and it’s said that they took an astonishing 25,000 years to form.

You’ll find them scattered around Renon, including the Katzenbach-creek gorge, the Gasters gorge, and the Finsterbach creek. One of the pyramids is just a 40-minute hike from Collalbo, where you’ll be rewarded with an awe-inspiring view of the pyramids and the majestic Odle and Sciliar Dolomites in the distance.

Getting to Renon is easy and quick, 12 minutes from the city center by cable car. Here is the Google Map location link of the cable car station (Talstation Rittner Seilbahn) heading to Renon. It is just 5 to 10 minutes from the city’s main terminal on foot.

8. Torre Panoramica del Colle: Sweeping City and Mountain Views Over Bolzano

Right next to the city center of Bolzano, there is a mountain called Monte Pozza. One of the city’s districts, Kohlern-Colle, is located near the top of the mountain. 

Take a look at its 360 degrees view below.

You can think of Kohlern-Colle as a smaller Renon without the earth pyramids. It has a cable car that goes from the city center of Bolzano to the district. This cable car, called Funivia del Colle or Kohlerer Bahn, is the oldest passenger aerial lift in the world. It started operating on June 29, 1908, and it’s still in use today.

The ride on the Funivia del Colle is amazing. You can see the whole city of Bolzano and the villages of Renon from above. But the best view is still waiting for you at the top.

The main attraction on Kohlern-Colle is a rustic tower called Torre Panoramica del Colle. You can climb to the top of this tower and enjoy a breathtaking 360-degree view of everything around you! You can see the city of Bolzano, the Renon Plateau, Adige Valley, Monte Alto, Monte Tondo, and more from up there.

The tower is made of wood and it was built about 80 to 90 years ago. It might seem a bit scary to climb it, but don’t worry, it’s very safe! Climbing the tower is a unique experience because it’s not like any other lookout you can find on a mountain these days.

You can visit the Torre Panoramica del Colle anytime from 7:00 am to 8:00 pm. And guess what? It’s free of charge! The best time to go to the tower is in the afternoon, when you can see the sun setting and the golden light over Bolzano.

At the end of Kohlern-Colle, you can see a beautiful chalet that looks like a castle. It’s called Villa Bittner, and it’s probably a private property. But you can still stop by and admire at its architecture before you return to Bolzano.

Kohlern-Colle is a wonderful reason to visit Bolzano, because it offers you easy access to the breathtaking views of the Dolomites. It’s ideal if you have limited time in northern Italy. But of course, the scenery is more beautiful if you get closer to the heart of the Dolomites. That’s what we’ll explore next.

9. Serenity in Santa Magdalena near Bolzano

Bolzano is the “Gateway of the Dolomites,” and it has easy access to some of the most stunning places in the Italian Alps. One of them is Santa Magdalena, a place that looks like heaven on earth. It’s one of the most popular spots in the Dolomites for photography.

It’s so beautiful that words can’t describe it, so I’ll just let you see some pictures of Santa Magdalena below. The most famous view is the village of Santa Magdalena and the church, with the Odle mountains behind them.

Find activities and day trips from Bolzano to the Dolomites here.

You can get to Santa Magdalena by car or by public transport from Bolzano. If you drive, it will take you about 40 minutes. If you take public transport, this is what you need to do:

1. Take a regional train from Bolzano train station to Bressanone Brixen. The train ride is 30 minutes long, and there is one train every hour.
2. When you arrive at Bressanone Brixen, switch to bus #330 that goes to the village of Santa Magdalena. The bus ride is also 30 minutes long, and there is one bus every hour.

10. Picturesque Seceda near Bolzano 

Seceda is the last place in this post, but it might be the most stunning one. It’s another spot in the Dolomites that has been photographed countless times. I see it on my Instagram feed every day.

Seceda is a ridge on the sunny side of Val Gardena, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s a ski paradise in winter and a natural wonder in summer. It has amazing views that will take your breath away. Words can’t capture its beauty, so I’ll just show you some photos that will make you fall in love with it.

Since Seceda is on the mountain top, you can’t get there by car. You have to use public transport from Bolzano and switch a few times. Here are the steps you can follow to reach Seceda, or you can visit the official website of Seceda for more details.

1. From Bolzano, you have to take a bus or train to Ortisei. Get out at Piazza S. Antonio, the heart of Ortisei village. You will see signs showing you the way to Seceda.
2. You will see a small street between a shoe store named Calzature Rabanser Di Senoner Emilia and a bank named Sparkasse Ortisei. Walk down that street and take the covered escalator named “La Curta” that goes up.
3. At the end of the escalator, find the conveyor belt walkway. It will lead you to the Seceda cableway valley station.
4. You have to ride two cable cars to get to Seceda. The first one goes from Ortisei to Furnes, and the second one goes from Furnes to Seceda. Furnes is the middle station, and Seceda is the top station. They will ask you at the counter where you are going.

Here is the official website of Seceda. Parking information included.

How Many Days to Stay in Bolzano?

How many days should you spend in Bolzano? Well, that depends on what you want to see and do. Here are some suggestions based on different scenarios:

If you only want to see Bolzano’s town center and a few museums in the city, you can spend one full day in Bolzano.

You can start your day by exploring the historic city center, where you can admire the Bolzano Cathedral, the Piazza Walther, and the colorful houses with Lüftlmalerei paintings. You can also visit the Bolzano Christmas market if you are there in December.

Then, you can head to the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology, where you can see the famous Ötzi the Iceman and learn about his life and death. You can also visit other museums in Bolzano, such as the Museion, the Museo Civico, or the Museo Mercantile, depending on your interests.

End your day by enjoying some local cuisine and wine in one of the many restaurants and bars in Bolzano.

If you want to visit Bolzano and the tourist attractions around the city like Renon and Castel Roncolo and Torre Panoramica de Colle, you will need at least two days in Bolzano.

On your first day, you can follow the same itinerary as above to see the highlights of Bolzano’s town center and museums. Then, on the next day, you can choose to visit one or two nearby tourist attractions, depending on your pacing and interests.

If you want to see only the highlights and a few museums in the city and have a day trip to the Dolomites after, you should stay in Bolzano for at least three days.

On your first day, you can visit the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology and other museums of your choice in Bolzano. The following day, head on a day trip to a different part of the Dolomites.

For example, you can visit Santa Magdalena or Seceda (Ortisei), two picturesque villages that offer spectacular views of the mountains and valleys. For your last day in Bolzano, join a driving tour that will take you along the Great Dolomites Road toward Cortina d’Ampezzo. You will see some of the most stunning scenery in the Dolomites, such as the Carezza Lake, the Misurina Lake, the Braies Lake, the Sella Group, and the Three Peaks of Lavaredo.

Find activities and day trips from Bolzano to the Dolomites here.

Where to Stay in Bolzano?

If you are planning to visit Bolzano, you might be wondering where to stay.

There are many options for accommodation in Bolzano, but some areas are better than others depending on what you are looking for.

Here are some of the best places to stay in Bolzano and what they have to offer:

• Old Town: This is the most popular area to stay in Bolzano, because it is where you can find most of the attractions, such as museums, churches, and squares. The Old Town is also full of life, with many shops, cafes, restaurants, and bars where you can enjoy the local food and culture. The Old Town is easy to get around by walking, biking, or taking public transport. However, the Old Town can also be noisy, crowded, and expensive, especially during peak seasons.
• Gries: This is a more quiet and residential area, located on the other side of the river from the Old Town. Gries is known for its green spaces, such as parks and gardens, where you can relax and enjoy nature. Gries also has some historical buildings, such as an abbey and a castle. Gries is a bit far from the city center, but you can reach it by bus or bike in about 15 minutes. The advantage of staying in Gries is that it is cheaper, more peaceful, and more spacious than the Old Town.
• Bozen Süd: This is a modern and industrial area, located on the south of Bolzano. Bozen Süd is mainly a business district, where you can find many offices, factories, and warehouses. Bozen Süd is also close to the airport and the fairground, making it convenient for travelers who need to catch a flight or attend an event. Bozen Süd is not very attractive or scenic, but it has some amenities, such as supermarkets, pharmacies, and restaurants. Bozen Süd is well connected by public transport, and you can reach the city center in about 20 minutes. The benefit of staying in Bozen Süd is that it is cheaper, more available, and more practical than other areas.

You can find the best accommodation deals in Bolzano here.

How to Visit Bolzano?

Bolzano is linked to nearby cities in Italy and Austria by bus and train. Here is the table that shows the distances and commute rides from the surrounding major cities:

From City	Private car (km) Travel Time	Public Transportation Travel Time	Source
Milan	270.9 km, 2h 30m	2 trains, 3h	Milan to Bolzano
Venice	266.5 km, 2h 30m	1 train, 3h	Venice to Bolzano
Verona	151.5 km, 1h 30m	1 train, 1h 30m	Verona to Bolzano
Bergamo	234 km, 2h 30m	1 bus, 3h 20m	Bergamo to Bolzano
Rome	638.5 km, 6h	1 train, 5h	Rome to Bolzano
Innsbruck	122.1 km, 1h 30m	1 bus, 2h	Innsbruck to Bolzano

Getting Around in Bolzano

One of the best things about Bolzano is that you have many choices for how to get around the city and its surroundings. You can walk or bike around the city center, which is very friendly to pedestrians and cyclists.

You can also take advantage of the public transport system, which has buses, trams, and cable cars that can take you to different parts of the city and beyond. The timetables and routes of public transport are available on the website or app of Alto Adige Mobilità and tickets are available at vending machines, newsstands, or online.

There are also different cards that let you use public transport for a certain period of time, such as the Mobilcard, the Museumobilcard, and the Bikemobilcard.

If you want to see some of the amazing attractions that are outside the city, such as Seceda, Santa Magdalena, or Cortina d’Ampezzo, you may want to rent a car for more freedom and comfort.

You can find several car rental agencies at Bolzano Airport or in the city center. However, keep in mind that some roads may be narrow, winding, or steep, and that some areas may have restricted traffic zones (ZTL) or tolls. You should also check the weather conditions before driving in the mountains, especially in winter.

If you have a car in Bolzano, you will need to find a place to park it. There are several parking options in the city, but they may vary in availability, price, and location. Here are three places where you can park your car:

• Fiera Bolzano: It is a big parking lot near the fairgrounds that offers free parking from Monday to Friday, from 7:30 am to 8:30 pm. However, parking is not free when there is an event going on on the premises. The good thing about this parking lot is that it is close to the city center and has 800 spots. The bad thing is that it may be crowded or unavailable during events.
• Bozen Mitte: This is an underground parking garage in the city center that is open 24/7 and charges about 1.50 euros per hour. The good thing about this parking garage is that it is convenient and secure. The bad thing is that it may be expensive if you park for a long time.
• Runkelstein Castle: This is a historic castle on the edge of the city that has a free parking lot for visitors. The good thing about this parking lot is that it is scenic and free. The bad thing is that it is far from the city center and has limited space…

Day Trips from Bolzano

Bolzano and the Dolomites are such beautiful places! Don’t you agree? 🙂 Here is a list of activities and tours you can join if you need help and guidance in visiting Bolzano.

See the list of day trips from Bolzano to the Dolomites from this link.

Where To Go After Bolzano?

Since Bolzano is in northern Italy, I suggest you also don’t miss the following places:

1. Cortina d’Ampezzo. It’s the town in the Dolomites in the middle of the best natural wonders of the Dolomites. You must go here after Bolzano.
2. Trento. It is the city south of Bolzano. It has a castle and fascinating museums, too!
3. Lake Garda. The largest lake in Italy. Full of beautiful scenery, from mountains to lakeside fortifications. You must not miss its beautiful lakeside towns!
4. Lake Como. A heaven-touched lake in northwest Italy. It has many picturesque villas and scenic views best for social media sharing.
5. Cinque Terre. The most scenic and charming coastal region in Northern Italy. It has 5 colorful villages that appear magical during the sunset!
6. Florence. This is the city where the Renaissance started. It’s filled with art and stunning architectural marvels. Definitely a bucket list destination.

If you like visiting beautiful alpine towns and villages like Bolzano, I suggest you also see the following destinations in Europe:

1. Bavarian Alps in southern Germany — they have beautiful streets with houses painted with Lüftlmalerei, vibrant Bavarian culture, and Germany’s most spectacular natural wonders:
   • Berchtesgaden — has a historic salt mine, scenic views from WWII historical sites, beautiful lakes, and picturesque chapels.
   • Mittenwald — here you can find the longest ski route in Germany.
   • Garmisch-Partenkirchen — is the town closest to Germany’s highest peak and one of the most picturesque alpine lakes.
   • Oberammergau — the village famous for its legendary Passion Play.
2. Towns/Villages in the Swiss Alps — rustic villages perched on breathtaking locations:
   • Interlaken — The gateway to the Jungfrau region. Here’s how you can spend 3 days in Interlaken and 7 days in the Jungfrau Region.
   • Lauterbrunnen— it is Switzerland’s heaven on earth valley and here’s how you can spend three days in Lauterbrunnen.
   • Zermatt — it is the village where you can see the Matterhorn, one of the world’s most famous mountains. Check out the best views in Zermatt.
   • Grindelwald — it’s where family-friendly and most epic adventures in Switzerland are!
   • Kandersteg — it is the closest village to Oeschinensee, one of the most beautiful alpine lakes in the Swiss Alps.
3. Cities near the Swiss Alps — They are a strategic home base for visiting different attractions in the Swiss Alps. Come to have a mixed experience: medieval architecture, adventure, wines, scenic views, and more. I recommend you don’t miss:
   • Lucerne — it has impressive unique landmarks, a charming historic town center, a scenic lake, and is minutes away from Mount Rigi/Mount Pilatus. Learn more how you can spend 1 to 3 days in Lucerne.
   • Montreux — It is unmissable during the Jazz festival! You can visit a fairytale castle, a beautiful vineyard and drink unique wines from here.
4. Destinations in the French Alps:
   • Chamonix — the village/town closest to Mont Blanc, the highest peak in the Alps. You can go inside a glacier, see mirror-like alpine lakes, and more.
   • Annecy — it is the Venice of the Alps. You can find romantic spots here, with a view of the lake, mountains, and a picturesque canal.

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