The Gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage Dolomites! 5 Must-See Tourist Spots in the Beautiful Town of Bolzano

Lake Carezza is one of the must-visit tourist destinations when in Bolzano. Located at the foot of the Dolomite mountain range, it is known as a beautiful lake called "Rainbow Lake" in the local language.

The white rocky surface of the Latemar Mountains and the deep green coniferous forests are reflected in the crystal-clear waters of the lake, creating an emerald green surface as captivating as jade. Not only the lake but also the 360-degree surrounding scenery is breathtakingly beautiful. The lake itself is small and can be circled in about 30 minutes, so it is recommended to take a leisurely walk while admiring the landscape.

The green color of the water changes depending on the position of the sun. The refreshing summer scenery is lovely, but the snowy winter landscape is also spectacular. When illuminated by the setting sun descending toward Bolzano, the mountains turn a fiery red, creating an awe-inspiring panorama! It’s about a 30-minute drive from downtown Bolzano, so make sure to enjoy the mystical scenery unique to the Dolomites.

2. Ritten Railway

The Ritten Railway is a public transport system running through the hills behind Bolzano. It consists of a cable car climbing from Bolzano to the top of the hill and a railway connecting the settlements in the hilly area. The Italian name for the Ritten Railway is "Treno del Renon," but its German name "Rittner (Seil)Bahn" is also commonly used.

This historic railway opened in 1907. Originally, a cable car extended to Bolzano at the foot of the hill, but after an accident, it was replaced by a cable car that only runs to Soprabolzano at the hilltop. From the cable car, you can enjoy views of the majestic Dolomites and the unique townscapes of the Tyrolean region, making it perfect for sightseeing around Bolzano.

Additionally, the railway, which operates like an old-fashioned streetcar, enhances the Tyrolean sightseeing experience. The terminal station, Collalbo, is a small highland village. While it has plenty of accommodation and dining options, there are few notable tourist attractions, so it’s best to take in the scenery of the town and then head back.

On the opposite side, the terminal station is not Soprabolzano but one station further, L’Assunta. Trains are infrequent, so be careful not to miss your stop, or you might miss the cable car ride back.

3. South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology

The South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology is a museum located near the Talvera Bridge in the old town of Bolzano. Inside, it mainly exhibits artifacts excavated in the Alto Adige region, dating from the Paleolithic era to around the 10th century. It’s a perfect tourist spot for learning about the history of South Tyrol, including Bolzano.

The museum’s highlight is the mummy known as the “Iceman” (Ötzi), which dates back approximately 5,300 years! Discovered by chance in 1991 from a glacier in the Alps, the mummy is believed to have died while hunting or during a war, as evidenced by the hunting gear and injuries on his back, before being encased in ice.

Additionally, the museum showcases videos of excavation processes, Ötzi’s clothing and belongings, and other displays that provide insights into the lives of people from prehistoric times.

4. Piazza Walther

Piazza Walther is located in the town center, just past the park in front of Bolzano Station. The central feature of the square is a striking statue of Walther von der Vogelweide, a German poet who flourished between the late 12th and early 13th centuries.

The square is surrounded by Romanesque-Gothic style buildings and a cathedral (Duomo) with a colorful tiled roof typical of German architecture. The area is bustling with locals relaxing or tourists meeting up, creating a lively atmosphere even during the day.

A glance around Piazza Walther reveals that Bolzano belongs to the German cultural sphere. The South Tyrol region, where Bolzano is located, was part of the German-speaking Austro-Hungarian Empire until World War I.

The square is also home to numerous hotels, restaurants, cafes, and shops, making it a convenient hub for tourism. Enjoying Viennese specialties like Sachertorte or apple strudel on an open terrace café surrounded by the Dolomites is a delightful experience.

5. Roncolo Castle

Roncolo Castle is a solitary fortress located about 2.5 km north of Bolzano's Talvera Bridge, on a high plateau in the Salentina Valley. Known in German as Runkelstein Castle, it was built in 1237. Over its long history, the castle has undergone repeated destruction and restoration, with the current structure rebuilt in the 19th century.

The highlight is the frescoes of knightly tales from the 14th and 15th centuries! In rooms called the "Knight's Room," the "Room of Knightly Battles," and the "Room of Lovers," vibrant frescoes related to each room's name are vividly depicted. It's fascinating to glimpse the life of medieval knights through depictions of noble pastimes and jousting tournaments.

A free shuttle bus runs every 30 minutes from the town to Roncolo Castle, making it easily accessible for visitors. South Tyrol is home to many medieval castles, so be sure to explore them if you have the chance.

◎ Summary

Bolzano, located about three hours north of Florence via Eurostar, is one of Italy's northernmost tourist cities. Just a short distance further north lies Austria. Having once been part of Austrian territory, Bolzano features a unique blend of Italian and German culture, evident in its bilingual signs. The city is a gateway to the breathtaking Dolomites and offers attractions like Ötzi the Iceman. With nearby hot spring resorts and plenty of activities, Bolzano promises a well-rounded and unforgettable travel experience. Discover the wonders of this charming northern Italian city!