We arrived in Bolzano by bike along the Adige Cycle Path and were immediately impressed by the well-maintained bike lanes, plenty of trees and green space, and excellent cycling infrastructure in the city. We spent a great couple of days here before heading out to the Dolomites for a hut to hut hike in the Rosengarten, and then enjoyed another couple of days there afterwards before continuing south to Lake Ledro.
Bolzano was a great place to get ourselves organised between bigger adventures. It’s big enough to have some culture and buzz, but small enough to offer easy access to the Dolomites for hiking – especially with its great public transport. It’s definitely somewhere I could see myself living (although I pretty much say that about everywhere I go…)
Bolzano blends Italian and Austrian influences, creating a unique atmosphere and culture. It’s the capital of South Tyrol, which also has a fascinating history. The city offers a great mix of cultural experiences, scenic beauty, and outdoor activities, making it a fantastic place for a family visit. Here’s our guide to the best family-friendly activities in Bolzano:
1. Visit the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology
Home to the famous Ötzi the Iceman, this museum is excellent. Kids and their parents will be fascinated by the story (and the actual view!) of this 5,300-year-old mummy and the interactive displays that showcase life in prehistoric times. The museum is extremely engaging, with multimedia exhibits and hands-on activities that explain Ötzi’s discovery, tools, and daily life.
I absolutely loved visiting this museum and found it remarkable how much scientists have learnt about the Copper Age as a result of Ötzi’s discovery. It’s incredible how intact his clothes and tools were, and you could even make out every individual whittle mark on his not quite finished bow. It gives an unparalleled glimpse into the daily life and survival skills of people thousands of years ago, and I highly recommend a visit!
2. Take a Cable Car Ride to Renon
For a fun adventure, hop aboard the Renon cable car. The ride offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, and once at the top, you’ll find the historic Renon Railway. The Renon Railway (Rittner Bahn) is a historic narrow-gauge railway that connects Soprabolzano (Oberbozen) with Collalbo (Klobenstein) – taking about 20 minutes – on the Renon Plateau. Originally built in 1907, this little historic train offers a scenic and nostalgic journey through picturesque meadows, forests, and small mountain villages, where traditional South Tyrolean culture is still very much alive.
Families can also visit the small outdoor swimming pool in Soprabolzano (Oberbozen), perfect for cooling off on a warm summer day.
3. Walk to the Earth Pyramids
A unique natural wonder, the earth pyramids on the Renon plateau are an interesting geological phenomenon formed over thousands of years by rain and wind shaping the soft clay soil beneath large boulders, leaving behind tall, cone-shaped pillars with large stones balanced on top. To reach them, take the Renon cable car from Bolzano to Soprabolzano, where you can hop on the historic Renon Railway to Collalbo. From there, a well-marked hiking trail leads you to the viewpoint overlooking these fascinating formations.
The hike is an easy 5 km return trip (there’s a map here), with gentle inclines and great scenery along the way as well as a number of places to stop for a coffee, sprite or ice cream! Once you reach the viewpoint, you’ll find benches where you can enjoy a picnic with spectacular views of the earth pyramids and the valley below.
4. Explore Piazza Walther
Bolzano’s main square is a lively spot in which to soak up the local atmosphere. Enjoy gelato from a nearby café while the kids run around the open piazza. The square is lined with beautiful historic buildings and lively cafés, making it a great place to relax and people watch. Throughout the year, Piazza Walther hosts various cultural events and markets. Admire the statue of Walther von der Vogelweide, a famous medieval poet, which stands proudly in the centre of the square.
5. Visit the Bolzano Natural History Museum
This museum has hands-on displays focusing on the geology and natural history of South Tyrol. The dinosaur fossils and aquariums are particularly popular. It’s also an ideal destination for a rainy day, offering interactive exhibits which allow kids to touch, explore, and learn about the region’s rich natural history. With its fascinating displays on prehistoric creatures, minerals, and local wildlife, it’s a great way to spend a few hours when the weather isn’t ideal for outdoor adventures.
6. Go for a Stroll Along the Talvera Promenade
This peaceful riverside path is dotted with playgrounds, open spaces for picnics, and bike paths. The promenade follows the Talvera River and provides shaded areas, making it a pleasant walk even on warm summer days. There are several well-equipped play areas along the route, offering climbing frames, slides, and swings for kids of all ages, while the wide paths make it great for a family cycle.
7. Climb the Tower of the Duomo di Bolzano
The Gothic cathedral in the city centre is a impressive sight, not just for its impressive structure but also for its multicoloured tiled roof which is beautifully decorated with a striking diamond pattern of green, yellow, and white tiles. Its intricate design and vibrant colours make it a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. The cathedral has an elaborate façade and there are some beautifully detailed frescoes inside. You can also climb the tower for a bird’s-eye view of Bolzano.
8. Enjoy the Water Activities at Lake Caldaro
Lake Caldaro is perfect for a family day out, where you can paddle, swim, or even try stand-up paddleboarding. Bring a picnic or stop by one of the lakeside restaurants.
To reach Lake Caldaro by public transport, take bus 131 from Bolzano to Caldaro. From there, you can take a local bus 130 to the lake itself. The journey is scenic, passing through vineyards and picturesque South Tyrolean landscapes. This makes it an easy and enjoyable trip for families looking to explore the area without a car.
9. Visit the Bolzano Lido
On a warm summer’s day, the Bolzano Lido is the perfect place for families to cool off and relax (though it can get busy!). This large outdoor swimming complex features multiple pools, including a dedicated children’s pool with slides and water play areas. There are also diving boards, grassy sunbathing areas, and plenty of space to enjoy a picnic. The Lido is centrally located and easily accessible on foot or by bike, making it a fantastic option for a refreshing break during your Bolzano adventure.
10. Taste Local Delicacies at the Bolzano Market
Explore the flavours of South Tyrol by visiting the daily market in Piazza Erbe. From fresh fruits to local cheese and pastries, it’s a feast for the senses. Stalls overflow with regional specialities such as speck, Schüttelbrot (a traditional crispy flatbread), and delicious alpine honey. You’ll also find a variety of freshly baked goods, including traditional South Tyrolean apple strudel – a must-try treat. The lively atmosphere make it a fun experience and a great place to pick up a picnic to enjoy in one of Bolzano’s scenic spots.
11. Cycle the Adige Cycle Path
For an active day out, take the train to a nearby town such as Merano or Mals. From there hire bikes and cycle along the scenic Adige cycle path back to Bolzano. The mostly flat route is almost entirely traffic free, so great for kids, and passes through vineyards, orchards, and picturesque villages, with plenty of spots to stop for a snack or photo. If you want to make this into a 3 day trip of it’s own, read my blog post here. You can hire bikes at any of the network of affiliated bike rental shops along the route, and drop the bikes at the Bolzano hub when you get to the end.
12. Take a hut to hut hike in the Rosengarten Dolomites
For an unforgettable Alpine adventure, embark on a hut to hut hike in the stunning Rosengarten range. Easily reached by a direct bus from Bolzano in about 40 minutes, this area offers trails suitable for slightly bigger kids with manageable distances and breath taking views. You can stay overnight in cosy mountain huts, with hearty meals and warm hospitality. We loved our 4 day, 3 night hut hike from Bolzano, which you can read all about here.
13. Visit the Messner Mountain Museum Firmian
Located in Sigmundskron Castle just outside Bolzano, the Messner Mountain Museum Firmian offers a deep dive into the history and culture of the mountains. Created by legendary mountaineer Reinhold Messner, the museum combines fascinating exhibits with wonderful views over the region. Kids will love exploring the castle’s towers and learning about the connection between humans and mountains through engaging displays.
14. Take a day trip (or longer!) to the Seiser Alm
Also known as Alpe di Siusi in Italian, the Seiser Alm is the largest high-altitude Alpine meadow in Europe, offering breath taking mountain views. This stunning plateau is perfect for a family day trip, with easy hiking trails suitable for all ages. The area is also great for a longer stay, with charming mountain huts and hotels that provide a true Alpine experience.
For an easy journey from Bolzano, take the bus 170 to Siusi allo Sciliar, where you can then hop on the Seiser Alm cable car up to the plateau. Once there, enjoy a variety of family-friendly hikes, such as the Hans and Paula Steger trail, which offers panoramic views and educational signposts about the region’s nature and history. The Seiser Alm is a fantastic way to experience the Dolomites with kids.
Public Transport in South Tyrol
South Tyrol boasts an excellent public transport system, making it easy to explore the region without a car. The SüdtirolMobil app is an invaluable tool for planning your journeys, offering real-time updates, routes, and timetables for buses, trains, and cable cars. Tickets can be purchased directly via the app, at ticket machines, or from train stations and bus stops.
Families might consider the Südtirol Pass or Mobilcard, which offer unlimited travel for a set period, saving both time and money. Public transport is not only efficient but also a great way to enjoy the scenic beauty of South Tyrol whilst remaining eco-friendly.
Family-Friendly Hotels in Bolzano
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Here are a few recommendations for family-friendly hotels in Bolzano:
- Parkhotel Mondschein: Located in the heart of Bolzano, Parkhotel Mondschein offers a serene garden and outdoor swimming pool, great breakfasts, an on-site restaurant, and a wellness area. It’s super convenient for exploring the city. A suite will fit two adults and two kids.
- Life Apartment & City Bike: Situated within a short walk of Bolzano’s historic centre, Life Apartment & City Bike is a large stylish self catering apartment, offering free bikes and mountain view. There’s a double bed and two sofa beds to accommodate a family.
- Hotel Regina: Just 200 meters from Bolzano’s city centre and near the railway and bus station, Hotel Regina is a good value hotel offering great family rooms with bunk beds for the kids, a good breakfast and friendly staff.
- Hotel Post Gries: This family-run hotel is situated on the historic Piazza Gries and offers great, squeaky clean family rooms. You can walk to the town centre and Bolzano’s archaeological museum, home to Ötzi the iceman in 15 minutes.
- Youth Hostel Bolzano: Located conveniently opposite Bolzano’s bus station and close to the historic city centre, the youth hostel offers affordable accommodation for travellers of all ages. The hostel features private rooms perfect for families, equipped with bunk beds, plenty of storage, en suite bathrooms and air conditioning.
Bonus Tips for Visitors
- Sportler: If you need to gear up before a hut hike or a bike tour, Sportler is a massive department store packed with high-quality outdoor and sports equipment. It’s easy to spend time (and money) here browsing their wide selection of hiking boots, cycling gear, and outdoor clothing. Sportler also sells proper hiking maps of the Dolomites, making it the best place to pick up a map for your hut to hut hike.
- Getting Around: Bolzano is very walkable or cyclable, and its efficient public transport makes it easy to explore nearby attractions.
- Best Time to Visit: Summer is the best time to visit Bolzano, as it’s when the region truly comes alive. The warm weather is perfect for outdoor activities, from hiking in the mountains to cycling along scenic paths. Plus, the long daylight hours give families plenty of time to explore and enjoy everything South Tyrol has to offer. (Christmas is supposed to be magical too, as it has a large Christmas market, but that’s not what this blog is about and I’ve not been there then, so that’s all I’ll say on the matter!)
We will definitely go back to Bolzano as it’s such a great base for adventures in the Dolomites. What makes Bolzano truly unique is its blend of German and Italian influences, visible in everything from its architecture and cuisine to the languages spoken on the streets. You’ll find elegant Italian piazzas alongside traditional Alpine chalets, and restaurants serving both pasta and hearty Tyrolean dumplings.
This mix of cultures gives the city a distinctive charm that sets it apart from other destinations in the Alps. With its mix of history, nature, and culture, Bolzano is great destination for all. Happy exploring!
