Bressanone also known as Brixen (German name) is a charming town in South Tyrol, Italy, known for its rich history and nestled in a valley of towering mountains. With a population of nearly twenty-three thousand, it is the oldest town in the province and offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity.

How to get there:

🚗Take the Val Gardena exit off A22 highway!

🚞 Bressanone also has its own train station, that is just a 10 min walk from the center.

Things to do in Bressanone:

⛪️Visit Bressanone’s Cathedral : you will find striking fresco paintings, patterned floors and an organ that takes up the entire wall.

🍋Check out the Farmers Market: you will find booths and stalls in the main square selling local products. This was a highlight for me. There is everything from honey and wine to meats and pasta.

🔔Visit Torre Bianca: A historical monument of Bressanone, it is a bell tower with 43 bells and 200 steps up to it. Now a museum, It has great views from the top and well worth a visit.

🏞️ Stroll along Isarco River : This is actually two rivers coming together. To get here , take the bridge from the main square , it’s only a 5min walk to the second river. The Isarco River gives the best views un-obstructed views of the valley and Mount Plose. In season you will find stunning weeping willows here.

🛍️Shop on Portici Street: What I love about this street are the cute, unique boutiques. For winter season , you will find lots of ski shops on this street too.

📸Visit Hofburg & Diocesan Museum: Now the Hofburg palace which display works of several eras of history from medieval to Renaissance to baroque and more.

This Diocesan Museum houses sculptures, paintings,etc. I love that the palace itself is a striking yellow and red, a reflection of the unique architecture and colour palette of this region of Italy.

🌈Explore the Alleyways: This is one of the reasons why this town feels so quaint and charming. Strolling the alleyways is a must and they all lead back to the main square.

🌸 Stroll Hofgarten: accessible from Via Bastioni Minori, the archway transports you to a beautiful, open flower garden. Stroll the gardens or relax at one of the many garden benches. From fountains to flowers, this hidden oasis is one of my favourite things to do in Bressanone.

If visiting close to Christmas, be sure to check out there Christmas Market , “Mercatino Di Natale”. It’s super beautiful and charming!

🏨Stay:

Residence Chiavi d’ Oro

Forestis Dolomites