The most beautiful excursion destinations in South Tyrol in winter
Colourful city life, interesting museums, romantic Christmas markets
From the vibrant provincial capital of Bolzano/Bozen to the sophisticated spa town of Merano/Meran and the oldest town in Tyrol, Bressanone/Brixen – if you are looking for a winter excursion in South Tyrol, we recommend a day trip to one of the surrounding towns. Each one of them radiates its own special charm – especially at Christmas time when the Advent markets attract holidaymakers to the centres. In addition to the five large Christmas markets in Bolzano/Bozen, Bressanone/Brixen, Merano/Meran, Vipiteno/Sterzing, and Brunico/Bruneck, there are many smaller markets to discover. There is a very special atmosphere, for example, at the Christmas Magic market at the Carezza/Karersee lake, at the medieval Christmas market in Chiusa/Klausen, or at the Rittner Christbahnl market.
Wintertime is also museum time. And there are many museums in South Tyrol, particularly, the Archaeological Museum in Bolzano/Bozen, where Ötzi the Iceman is on display, or the six Messner Mountain Museums scattered all over the region. There are also many other theme-specific museums, such as the Women’s Museum in Merano/Meran, the Diocesan Museum in Bressanone/Brixen, the Thurn Castle in Nova Ponente/Deutschnofen, or the Museion in Bolzano/Bozen, which are also open in winter.
Are you looking for an excursion during your winter holiday in South Tyrol? Just ask us! We have lots of tips ready for you.
Christmas magic at Lake Carezza/Karersee
You’ve certainly heard of colourful Lake Carezza/Karersee, also known as the “Rainbow Lake of the Dolomites”. Its clear water beautifully reflects the peaks of Catinaccio/Rosengarten and Latemar. If you’re spending your holidays near Nova Levante/Welschnofen or Passo di Costalunga/Karerpass, this lake is an absolute must. Especially in winter, when traditional market stalls adorn the lakeshore and create a magical atmosphere. Starting from Cyprianerhof, you can reach the lake in about 25 minutes by car (other ways to get to the lake are: mountain bike, bus no. 186, lifts, or on foot) and then enjoy a nice walk around it.
