48 hours in Bozen: your guide for a perfect weekend

Bozen (Italian: Bolzano), the capital of South Tyrol, combines Mediterranean flair with Alpine charm. The city surrounded by vineyards is ideal for a short trip where you can enjoy culture, nature and culinary delights to the full.

Bolzano has a fascinating history dating back to ancient times. In the Middle Ages, the city developed into an important trading centre thanks to its location on the north-south trade routes, which can still be felt today in the characteristic arcades of the old town. After the First World War, South Tyrol became part of Italy, which led to an eventful history characterised by Italianisation and cultural tensions. Today, Bolzano is a symbol of the peaceful coexistence of Italian and German-speaking cultures, which is reflected in the city's architecture and atmosphere - perfect for a weekend full of discoveries!

Here's your plan for a perfect weekend in Innsbruck, allowing you to discover both the city's highlights and the impressive natural surroundings.

F R I D A Y

Arrival and dinner at ‘Walthers’ on Waltherplatz square

Your weekend begins on Friday evening with a cosy dinner in the ‘Walthers’ restaurant on Waltherplatz, the heart of Bolzano. Surrounded by historic buildings and the imposing Bolzano Cathedral, the square offers an elegant atmosphere. At ‘Walthers’ you can enjoy the perfect blend of South Tyrolean and Italian cuisine, from local specialities such as Schlutzkrapfen to Mediterranean dishes. Accompanied by a glass of South Tyrolean wine - an ideal start to your weekend!

S A T U R D A Y

Sigmundskron Castle and a hike on the Ritten

Culture is on the programme on Saturday morning. Your first stop is the impressive Sigmundskron Castle, just a few kilometres outside of Bolzano. This is home to the ‘Messner Mountain Museum’, which was founded by Reinhold Messner. The exhibition is dedicated to man's relationship with the mountains and offers fascinating insights into the world of alpinism. The castle also offers a magnificent view over the Adige Valley. After your visit to the museum, you can continue the day with a hike. I recommend the Rittner theme trail, which starts in Oberbozen. You can easily reach Oberbozen by cable car from Bolzano. The circular trail is easy to walk and offers fantastic views of the Dolomites and the surrounding area. The hike takes you through idyllic landscapes and small villages where you can enjoy the nature of South Tyrol.

Aperitif and/or espresso at Piazza Walther

After the hike, you return to Bolzano in the afternoon. Time for a relaxed aperitif on Piazza Walther - how about a refreshing Hugo or a glass of South Tyrolean wine? My tip is the ‘Vögelino’, a trendy bar.

Afterwards, stroll through the arcades of Bolzano, with their arcades, small boutiques and delicatessens, inviting you to stroll and discover. Here you will not only find typical South Tyrolean products, but also fashion, design and handicrafts. A particular highlight is the fruit market in the old town centre.

Runkelstein Castle and dinner at the ‘Vögele’

In the late afternoon or early evening, it is worth visiting Runkelstein Castle, which is enthroned on a rock above the town. This medieval jewel is home to impressive frescoes depicting scenes from courtly life in the Middle Ages. A short walk along the Talfer promenade takes you to the castle, which offers a wonderful view of Bolzano and is particularly romantic at dusk.

For dinner, head to the historic ‘Vögele’ restaurant, one of the oldest inns in Bolzano. Here you can expect a cosy atmosphere and a menu that offers traditional South Tyrolean dishes such as dumplings, game dishes and Schlutzkrapfen with a modern twist. An absolute delight and the perfect end to your first day in Bolzano.

S U N D A Y

Sunday morning: the Ötzi Museum and a leisurely walk

Start your Sunday with a cultural highlight: the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology, better known as the Ötzi Museum. Here you can learn all about the famous Iceman, who lived in the Alps over 5,000 years ago and was discovered in 1991. The museum offers fascinating insights into the history and lifestyle of this prehistoric figure and is one of the absolute must-sees in Bolzano.

Afterwards, treat yourself to a drink and a small snack in the elegant Laurin Bar, which is part of the historic Parkhotel Laurin, or find a cosy spot in Laurin Park, which is an oasis of peace in the middle of the city.

Sunday afternoon: discovery tour to the beautiful villages of Kastelruth and Völs am Schlern

The Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attract visitors from all over the world with their majestic beauty and diverse activities. Kastelruth and Völs am Schlern are two enchanting villages that offer a perfect combination of breathtaking nature, culture and warm hospitality. Here are some tips for your visit!

Arrival and location

Castelrotto and Fiè allo Sciliar are located in South Tyrol, about 30 minutes from Bolzano. Travelling by car is straightforward, and public transport will also take you comfortably to these picturesque villages.

Experience "Kastelruth"

Parish church of St Peter: An architectural highlight with an impressive church tower. It is worth a visit not only for the works of art, but also for the view of the village and the surrounding landscape.

Adventure world on the Seceda: From "Kastelruth", you can take the cable car to the Seceda. Numerous hiking trails and spectacular views of the Dolomites await you here.

Explore "Völs am Schlern"

Völser Weiher: An idyllic lake, perfect for a relaxing walk or a picnic. The backdrop of the Dolomites makes the place particularly picturesque.

Hikes on the Sciliar: The hiking trails around the Sciliar offer both easy and more challenging routes. The Schlern mountain hut is a popular destination and rewards hikers with fantastic views.

Hikes on the Sciliar: The hiking trails around the Schlern offer both easy and more challenging routes. The Schlern mountain hut is a popular destination and rewards hikers with fantastic views.

The Bozen Card is a practical guest ticket that visitors to Bolzano receive free of charge from participating hotels and accommodation providers. It offers a variety of discounts and free admissions to help you get the most out of your stay in the city and the surrounding area.

With the Bozen Card you can enjoy, among other things

• Free use of public transport in South Tyrol, including buses, regional trains and some cable cars (such as the cable car to Oberbozen).

• Free admission to over 90 museums and attractions in the region, including the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology (Ötzi Museum), Runkelstein Castle and the Messner Mountain Museum.