Bressanone

Travel Guide

Photo by Brian Scrivner
Photo by Figenita
Photo "Bressanone" by Uoaei1 (CC BY-SA) / Cropped from original
Photo "Bressanone" by Uoaei1 (CC BY-SA) / Cropped from original
Photo "Bressanone" by Zairon (CC BY-SA) / Cropped from original

Use this beautiful and historic town, the oldest in South Tyrol, as a base for exploring the dramatic peaks and verdant valleys of the Dolomite mountain range.

Bressanone, or Brixen in German, is the longest-standing town in Italy’s heavily Austrian-influenced region of South Tyrol. Use this spot as an idyllic base for exploring the surrounding Dolomites, a beacon for outdoor lovers. Even if you’re not a hiking or skiing fan, find plenty of charm and appeal amid the cobbled lanes and Baroque architecture of this scenic and historic place.

The first written records mentioning a town here at the junction of the Isarco and Rienza rivers date back to 901. Wander the narrow, winding streets and find signs of its long history everywhere. With medieval buildings lining the streets, a visit here lets you feel that you have truly travelled back in time.

Start your tour at Bressanone Cathedral. A church has stood in this spot since 980, but after several fires struck the site, it was rebuilt in the mid-18th century. Take photos of its gorgeous façade, with elegant columns and elaborate twin clock towers. Admire the many rich details of the interior, including colourful frescoes and an ornate altar. Visit the cloisters, known for their striking painted ceilings.

Another important historic site is the Bishop’s Palace. Pay an entrance fee and then step inside the museum, which includes many beautiful medieval works of art. The nearby Pharmacy Museum is also quite special. It is contained within a gorgeous historic townhouse. The collections have an unusual focus, as they explore the history of medicine.

Ride the Plose Cable Lift to access the simply stunning Plose Mountain. In summer, its beautiful wooded slopes are filled with hikers. Come in winter, however, and switch walking boots for skis.

Take the train to Bressanone to see the gorgeous scenery of the Dolomites as you travel. Any season of the year is a wonderful time for a visit, as even in the colder months, the great local winter sports facilities provide plenty to do.

Santre dolomythic home

Santre dolomythic home

5 out of 5
Via Centrale, Bressanone, BZ
Stay at this 5-star luxury hotel in Bressanone. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (90 reviews)
Can't wait to return!
LOVED our stay, dying to go back. Incredibly thoughtful and attentive staff, luxe experience and services, great range of scheduled offerings for guests. Wonderful food for breakfast and dinner. 10/10 all around

Reviewed on 15 Oct 2025

Santre dolomythic home
Hotel KRONE - eat, drink, stay

Hotel KRONE - eat, drink, stay

4 out of 5
Stadelgasse 4 Via Fienili, Bressanone, BZ
The price is RM796 per night from 13 Nov to 14 Nov
RM796
RM910 total
13 Nov - 14 Nov
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4-star spa hotel in Bressanone. Enjoy free WiFi, a full-service spa, and a rooftop terrace. Popular attractions Forum Brixen and Acquarena are located ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (222 reviews)
Delightful stay
Great amenities and large spacious room. Restaurant attached was great and breakfast included was delicious.

Reviewed on 18 Sept 2025

Hotel KRONE - eat, drink, stay
My Arbor - Adults Only

My Arbor - Adults Only

5 out of 5
Leonharderstr. 26, Italien, Bressanone, BZ
Stay at this 5-star luxury hotel in Bressanone. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Popular attractions Plose Kabinenbahn / Cabinovia Plose and ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (223 reviews)
The best hotel for perfect relaxation

Reviewed on 4 Oct 2025

My Arbor - Adults Only
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Residence - Palais Hörtenberg

Residence - Palais Hörtenberg

Via Museo, Bolzano, BZ
Book a stay at this spa aparthotel in Bolzano. Enjoy free WiFi, a full-service spa, and parking (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (205 reviews)
Great rooms, friendly staff, awesome location

Reviewed on 17 Oct 2025

Residence - Palais Hörtenberg
Residence Antares

Residence Antares

3 out of 5
Via Meisules 195, Selva di Val Gardena, BZ
Stay at this 3-star ski residence in Selva di Val Gardena. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and room service. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (250 reviews)
The back part of the first floor smell like smoke. Otherwise location is excellent and breakfast was awesome

Reviewed on 4 Oct 2025

Residence Antares
La Tambra B&B Residence - central with Restaurant

La Tambra B&B Residence - central with Restaurant

4 out of 5
Via Dursan 13, Santa Cristina Val Gardena, BZ
Stay at this 4-star residence in Santa Cristina Val Gardena. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an airport shuttle (surcharge). Popular attractions Val Gardena ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (15 reviews)
We loved this place! Incredible hospitality! Great view, comfortable apartment. Great breakfast and wonderful food at the restaurant!

Reviewed on 22 Oct 2025

La Tambra B&B Residence - central with Restaurant
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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