Südtirol: Bozen und Wandern in Meran

About the destination: Bolzano is the provincial capital of South Tyrol, the German speaking region in the northern part of Italy. Being the largest town in close proximity of the Dolomites, Bolzano garners its fair share of tourists. While smaller hamlets closer to the peaks may wow with traditional alpine charm, Bolzano’s superiority with regard to architectural as well as culinary diversity cannot be refuted. Its archaeology museum is famous worldwide as the home of the alpine iceman "Ötzi". It is also known as the Italian Capital of Christmas thanks to its characteristic Christmas market. It is strategically well-placed on many transit routes, it is also nestled in a gorgeous setting and blessed with a fairly mild climate considering its proximity to the mountains. The world-famous Museum of Archaeology with the Iceman and the Messner Mountain Museum's main seat make Bolzano a world city of mountaineering history and culture. Bolzano offers great amenities, transportation convenience and plenty of Old World charm along with beautiful surrounding awaiting for you to explore.

About the destination: Merano/Meran is a vibrant spa town, characterized by spacious parks, easy walking routes, botanical gardens and waterways which invite visitors to linger and enjoy the green and pleasant atmosphere of the old town. Visitors will also find many shops and restaurants in the medieval arcades and alongside the elegant art nouveau buildings. The natural spectacle presented by the snow-covered peaks of the glaciers form a backdrop to the palm trees and exotic plants of the beautiful gardens in the old town or in Gardens of Trauttmansdorff Castle. Equally diverse is the cultural program on offer, which includes several high-end food and wine events such as the Merano Spring Festival, the Merano Grape Festival, the Merano Music Weeks, the Merano WineFestival and the Merano Christmas Market.