Bolzano

Bolzano, the capital of South Tyrol in northern Italy, is a city where you'll hear both Italian and German spoken on the streets. This alpine city invites you to explore its medieval arcades, admire the green and yellow tiled roof of its Gothic cathedral, and come face-to-face with a 5,300-year-old mummy at the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology. When you're ready to venture beyond the city, take a cable car up to mountain viewpoints, taste wines in the surrounding valleys, or use Bolzano as your base for hiking in the Dolomites.

Discovering Ötzi at the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology

The South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology displays Ötzi the Iceman, a 5,300-year-old mummy discovered in 1991 in the nearby Ötztal Alps. You can see Ötzi's remarkably preserved body and belongings across three floors of exhibits. Examine his copper axe, birchbark containers, and even his tattoos up close. Interactive displays explain what scientists have learned about Ötzi's life and mysterious death.

Exploring Bolzano's Medieval Heart

Walk through Bolzano's old town to experience its Tyrolean character. In the main square, Piazza Walther, you can relax at a cafe or visit the Christmas market if you're there in winter. The city's Gothic cathedral stands nearby, its roof tiled in green and yellow. Stroll down Via dei Portici, where medieval arcades have sheltered shops and restaurants for over 800 years.

Ascending to Mountain Views

Take a ride on the Renon/Ritten cable car for a panorama of Bolzano and the surrounding mountains. In 12 minutes, you'll climb 1000 meters to the village of Soprabolzano. From there, you can hike through alpine meadows or board a narrow-gauge train to see the Earth Pyramids - tall clay formations topped with boulders. On clear days, you might spot the peaks of the Dolomites in the distance.

Savoring South Tyrolean Flavors

Bolzano's cuisine reflects both Italian and Austrian influences. Try canederli, bread dumplings served in broth or with butter and cheese. You'll find speck, a smoked and cured ham, in many dishes. For dessert, taste apple strudel or krapfen (jam-filled doughnuts). Bolzano sits on the South Tyrolean Wine Road, so sample local wines like the fruity red Lagrein or the crisp white Gewürztraminer.

Visiting Runkelstein Castle

Climb to Runkelstein Castle, perched on a rocky spur above Bolzano, to see a collection of secular medieval frescoes. Built in the 13th century, the castle's walls display scenes of courtly life, hunting, and Arthurian legends. Audio guides explain the significance of these rare non-religious paintings. From the castle, you can look out over the city and surrounding vineyards.

Getting Around Bolzano

You can easily explore Bolzano's compact center on foot. For longer distances, use the city's bus network. You can also rent a bicycle at several locations around town. If you're driving, be aware of the Limited Traffic Zones (ZTL) in the city center, where access is restricted to residents. You'll find several parking garages on the outskirts of the old town.