Are you looking to explore the stunning surroundings of Bolzano? Embark on unforgettable day trips from Bolzano to discover the beauty of the Italian Alps and beyond. From charming villages to breathtaking natural landscapes, there are plenty of exciting destinations to visit just a short distance away from Bolzano. Whether you’re interested in hiking in the Dolomites, exploring historic castles, or indulging in delicious local cuisine, these day trips from Bolzano offer a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Join us as we uncover the top day trip destinations waiting to be explored from Bolzano.
Merano
Travel tips
- Distance of Merano from Bolzano: 24 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 40 minutes
- How to get there from Bolzano: You can take a direct bus from Bolzano to Merano. The bus station in Bolzano is located at Piazza Walther, and the bus station in Merano is at Piazza della Stazione. Alternatively, you can also take a train from Bolzano to Merano. The train station in Bolzano is Bolzano/Bozen, and in Merano, it is Merano/Meran.
- Click for Google maps directions: Merano
Exploring Merano: Things to do
Merano is a charming town in the South Tyrol region of Italy, known for its stunning alpine scenery and relaxing thermal baths. One of the must-see places in Merano is the Trauttmansdorff Castle and its botanical gardens, offering a delightful stroll amidst exotic plants and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
For outdoor enthusiasts, a visit to the Merano 2000 ski area is a must, offering a range of activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and hiking in the summer months. The Tappeiner Promenade is another popular attraction, a scenic walking path that offers panoramic views of the town and the surrounding vineyards.
Don’t miss the chance to explore the historic center of Merano, with its picturesque streets lined with colorful buildings and charming cafes. The Merano Thermal Baths are perfect for relaxation, with a variety of pools and spa treatments to rejuvenate both body and mind.
Overall, Merano is a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and wellness offerings, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a peaceful retreat in the heart of the Italian Alps.
Renon
Travel tips
- Distance of Renon from Bolzano: 6 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 30 minutes
- To get to Renon from Bolzano, you can take a bus from Bolzano Bus Station to Collalbo/Renon. The journey offers scenic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Alternatively, you can take a train from Bolzano Train Station to Collalbo, followed by a short bus ride to Renon.
- Click for Google maps directions: Renon
Exploring Renon: Things to do
Renon is a charming destination that offers a perfect blend of nature and culture. One of the must-see places in Renon is the Earth Pyramids, unique rock formations created by erosion over centuries. Visitors can take a leisurely hike to explore these natural wonders and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Renon offers excellent opportunities for hiking and biking along well-marked trails that lead through lush forests and picturesque meadows. The region is also known for its traditional alpine cuisine, so be sure to sample local delicacies at one of the cozy mountain huts.
A visit to the Renon Plateau Railway is a must-do experience. This historic narrow-gauge railway takes passengers on a scenic journey through the stunning countryside, providing a glimpse into the region’s rich heritage. Don’t miss the chance to hop off at various stops to explore charming villages and take in the breathtaking vistas.
Overall, Renon is a hidden gem that captivates visitors with its natural beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural attractions. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, this idyllic destination has something for everyone to enjoy.
Bressanone
Travel tips
- Distance of Bressanone from Bolzano: 26 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 40 minutes
- How to get there from Bolzano: You can take a regional train from Bolzano to Bressanone. The train station in Bolzano is called “Bolzano/Bozen,” and in Bressanone, it is “Brixen/Bressanone.” Alternatively, you can also take a bus from Bolzano to Bressanone.
- Click for Google maps directions: Bressanone
Exploring Bressanone: Things to do
Bressanone, a charming town in the South Tyrol region of Italy, is a must-see destination for travelers seeking a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. The town’s rich history is evident in its well-preserved medieval architecture, including the impressive Bressanone Cathedral, a prime example of Romanesque architecture in the region.
One of the top things to do in Bressanone is to explore the historic center on foot, wandering through narrow cobblestone streets lined with colorful buildings and quaint shops. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Hofburg, a former prince-bishop’s palace that now houses a museum showcasing the region’s history.
Nature lovers will appreciate the surrounding landscape, with the nearby Plose mountain offering hiking trails and panoramic views of the Dolomites. In the winter, Plose also transforms into a popular ski resort, attracting outdoor enthusiasts from near and far.
For a taste of local cuisine, be sure to sample traditional South Tyrolean dishes at one of the many cozy restaurants in Bressanone. From hearty dumplings to flavorful speck (smoked ham), the culinary scene here is a delightful blend of Italian and Austrian influences.
Overall, Bressanone’s unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty makes it a must-see destination for travelers exploring the South Tyrol region of Italy.
Val Gardena
Travel tips
- Distance of Val Gardena from Bolzano: 20 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 1 hour by car
- How to get there from Bolzano: You can take a direct bus from Bolzano to Val Gardena. The bus station in Bolzano is located at Piazza Walther, and the bus will drop you off at various stops in Val Gardena. Alternatively, you can take a train from Bolzano to Ponte Gardena and then transfer to a bus that will take you to Val Gardena.
- Click for Google maps directions: Val Gardena
Exploring Val Gardena: Things to do
Val Gardena is a charming alpine region in the Dolomites that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and outdoor activities. One of the top things to do in Val Gardena is hiking along the picturesque trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The Seceda area is particularly popular for its panoramic vistas and well-marked paths.
For those interested in winter sports, Val Gardena is a paradise for skiing and snowboarding. The region is part of the Dolomiti Superski area, one of the largest ski areas in the world, offering a variety of slopes for all levels of skiers.
In addition to outdoor activities, Val Gardena is also known for its rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the charming villages of Ortisei, Selva, and Santa Cristina, each offering a glimpse into the traditional Tyrolean way of life. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Museum Gherdeina in Ortisei, which showcases the history and art of the region.
Whether you are seeking adventure in the great outdoors or looking to immerse yourself in the local culture, Val Gardena is a must-see destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Lake Caldaro
Travel tips
- Distance from Bolzano: 9 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 30 minutes
- To get to Lake Caldaro from Bolzano, you can take a bus from Bolzano Bus Station to Caldaro/Kaltern Bahnhof. From there, you can either walk or take a short taxi ride to the lake.
- Click for Google maps directions: Lake Caldaro
Exploring Lake Caldaro: Things to do
Lake Caldaro, also known as Kalterer See, is a stunning natural attraction located just a short distance from Bolzano. This picturesque lake is a must-see destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
One of the top activities to enjoy at Lake Caldaro is swimming in its crystal-clear waters. The lake is known for its clean and inviting waters, perfect for a refreshing dip on a hot summer day. Visitors can also rent paddle boats or kayaks to explore the lake from a different perspective.
For those who prefer to stay on land, there are several scenic walking and cycling paths around the lake. The surrounding vineyards and orchards create a beautiful backdrop for leisurely strolls or bike rides. Birdwatching is also popular at Lake Caldaro, with a variety of bird species calling the area home.
If you’re a foodie, be sure to sample some of the local wines and cuisine in the charming villages surrounding the lake. The region is known for its delicious wines, particularly the Kalterersee Auslese, a light and fruity red wine that pairs perfectly with the local dishes.
Overall, Lake Caldaro offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, with its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere making it a perfect day trip destination from Bolzano.
Cortina d’Ampezzo
Travel tips
- Distance from Bolzano to Cortina d’Ampezzo: 75 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 2 hours by car
- How to get there from Bolzano: You can take a direct bus from Bolzano to Cortina d’Ampezzo. The bus station in Bolzano is located at Piazza Walther, and the bus station in Cortina d’Ampezzo is at Piazzale Roma. Alternatively, you can take a train from Bolzano to Calalzo di Cadore and then transfer to a bus to reach Cortina d’Ampezzo.
- Click for Google maps directions: Cortina d’Ampezzo
Exploring Cortina d’Ampezzo: Things to do
Cortina d’Ampezzo is a charming town nestled in the heart of the Dolomites, making it a must-see destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The town is renowned for its stunning mountain scenery, making it a paradise for hikers, skiers, and climbers alike.
One of the top things to do in Cortina d’Ampezzo is to explore the breathtaking natural surroundings. You can take a cable car ride up to the Tofane mountains for panoramic views of the region, or hike along the scenic trails that wind through the Dolomites. In the winter, Cortina d’Ampezzo transforms into a winter wonderland, offering world-class skiing and snowboarding opportunities.
For those interested in culture and history, Cortina d’Ampezzo also boasts a rich heritage. Visit the local museums to learn about the town’s mountaineering history and traditional way of life. Don’t miss the chance to stroll through the charming streets lined with quaint shops and cafes, where you can sample delicious local cuisine and pick up unique souvenirs.
Whether you’re seeking adventure in the great outdoors or looking to soak up the alpine atmosphere, Cortina d’Ampezzo offers something for everyone. Plan your day trip to this enchanting town for an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Dolomites.
Alpe di Siusi
Travel tips
- Distance of Alpe di Siusi from Bolzano: 18 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 1 hour by bus
- How to get there: From Bolzano, take the Bus 170 towards Castelrotto and get off at the Siusi allo Sciliar stop. From there, you can take the cable car up to Alpe di Siusi.
- Click for Google maps directions: Alpe di Siusi
Exploring Alpe di Siusi: Things to do
Alpe di Siusi, also known as Seiser Alm, is a stunning plateau in the Dolomites that offers breathtaking views and a wide range of outdoor activities. This must-see destination is perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
One of the top things to do at Alpe di Siusi is hiking. With an extensive network of trails, you can explore the alpine meadows, forests, and rugged peaks while enjoying the fresh mountain air. The trails vary in difficulty, catering to both casual strollers and experienced hikers.
For those seeking adventure, Alpe di Siusi also offers opportunities for mountain biking. The well-marked trails provide an exhilarating ride through the picturesque landscape, with options for all skill levels.
During the winter months, Alpe di Siusi transforms into a winter wonderland, attracting skiers and snowboarders from around the world. The area boasts excellent ski slopes and cross-country skiing trails, making it a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts.
If you prefer a more leisurely experience, you can simply relax and soak in the stunning surroundings. Take a moment to appreciate the beauty of the Dolomites, enjoy a picnic amidst the meadows, or simply unwind with a book while surrounded by nature.
Whether you’re seeking adventure or tranquility, Alpe di Siusi offers something for everyone. With its natural beauty, diverse activities, and peaceful atmosphere, it’s no wonder why this plateau is a must-see destination in the Dolomites.
