Looking for the perfect place to start your Dolomites adventure? Bolzano, the capital of South Tyrol, offers the ideal combination of easy access, comfort, and culture. Surrounded by rolling vineyards and nestled at the foot of the Rosengarten–Sciliar Nature Park, Bolzano is the ultimate base for anyone ready to explore the Dolomites year-round, from ski touring and climbing to hiking and cycling. Whatever your adventure, you'll find yourself right in the heart of it all, with the mountains just a short step away.

How to Reach Bolzano

Getting to Bolzano is simple and convenient. The city is well-connected to major international airports:

• Innsbruck (1.5 hours)

• Verona (1.5 hours)

• Venice (2.5 hours)

• Munich (3.5 hours)

From any of these airports, you can easily reach Bolzano by train, long-distance bus, or private transfer (available upon request).

The Italian railway system is reliable and efficient — you can check schedules and book tickets at trenitalia.com. The Bolzano train station is located in the heart of the city, making it just a short walk to most hotels and accommodations. If you're unsure how to navigate the website don’t worry — we're happy to assist you!

NO RENTAL CARS NEEDED!

Once you're in South Tyrol, you'll quickly appreciate the excellent local bus network, which connects Bolzano to nearby mountain valleys, trailheads, and charming alpine villages. It's a fantastic option for those who want to explore the Dolomites in a sustainable and eco-friendly way: no car required! We always recommend this option wherever possible for a slower, more respectful approach to travel.

For those seeking a more personalized or flexible experience, we also arrange private transfers on request, perfect for early starts, reaching remote trailheads, or carrying heavy gear for your Ski Safari adventures.

Prefer a quiet, vineyard-lined village over the city?

Just 10 minutes from Bolzano, the historic village of Appiano (Eppan) is surrounded by vineyards and castles, making it an ideal place to relax and recharge. It's perfect for:

• Scenic bike rides

• Hikes to the picturesque Monticolo Lakes or the historic Appiano Castles

• Wine tastings at some of South Tyrol's top wineries

What to Do in and Around Bolzano

Bolzano is more than just a gateway to the Dolomites; it’s a beautiful, culturally rich destination in itself. On your rest days, you can:

• Visit the world-famous Ötzi Museum and meet the 5,300-year-old ice mummy.

• Wander through the medieval old town, with its charming arcades and open-air markets.

• Hop on a cable car from the city center to the scenic plateaus of Renon and San Genesio — perfect for a leisurely hike or simply enjoying a 360-degree view of the surrounding mountains.

• Indulge in South Tyrolean cuisine, discover the best pizza in town, or savor a gourmet Italian meal at a local restaurant.

• Unwind in a sunny piazza with a glass of local wine, or embark on a scenic bike ride through the vineyards.

Day Trips & Nearby Destinations

From Bolzano, you’re perfectly situated to explore even more:

Lake Garda (1 hour south) – Best enjoyed in spring and autumn, it offers spectacular panoramic via ferratas, scenic lakeside trekking, and excellent conditions for kitesurfing, all set within a relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere.

Val Senales (1 hour northwest) – A true alpine paradise, ideal for beautiful high-mountain hikes in summer, with wide-open landscapes, dramatic peaks, and trails leading deep into the Ötztal Alps along the Austria–Italy border.

Val Martello (1 hour west) – Perfect for ski touring in winter or snowshoeing through pristine snowy landscapes. In summer, the valley reveals the fascinating Glaciological Trail, and you’ll be exploring the heart of Stelvio National Park, home to a rich variety of protected wildlife, including marmots, ibex, and golden eagles.

Val Venosta (Vinschgau) – A valley rich in nature and culture: visit one of the Messner Mountain Museums, dedicated to the life and mountaineering legacy of Reinhold Messner, or reach the iconic Lake Resia, famous for its church steeple rising from the water. The area also offers endless cycling opportunities, thanks to the scenic Vinschgau cycle path, winding through rivers, apple orchards, and unspoiled alpine nature.

Looking to unwind? Just 30 minutes from Bolzano, Merano is ideal for relaxation at the luxurious Terme di Merano, or for a leisurely stroll through the renowned Gardens of Trauttmansdorff Castle, once beloved by Empress Sisi.

All year round, local traditions are alive and vibrant: from wine festivals and typical summer village celebrations, to the fascinating Krampus parades, Törggelen (autumn chestnut feasts), and cozy village chestnut gatherings. There’s always a wonderful tradition to enjoy, no matter the season.

Start Your Dolomites Safari Here

At Dolomite Safari, we believe your adventure begins the moment you arrive in Bolzano. Whether you're here to conquer alpine peaks, enjoy the slower rhythm between mountain days, or simply soak in the beauty of the Dolomites, Bolzano is the perfect starting point to immerse yourself in the region's magic.

Let us show you the best places to explore, relax, and make memories — all while embracing the true spirit of South Tyrol. From your first step off the train to the last sunset behind the peaks, we’ll ensure your journey is smooth, unforgettable, and filled with adventure.

Ready to start your Dolomites Safari? Let’s go!