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 traveled 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 colorful 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.

Hotel KRONE - eat, drink, stay

Hotel KRONE - eat, drink, stay

4 out of 5
Stadelgasse 4 Via Fienili, Bressanone, BZ
The price is ¥29,884 per night from Jul 20 to Jul 21
¥29,884
¥34,112 total
Jul 20 - Jul 21
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 ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (213 reviews)
"We would stay again, but not when the weather is at all warm. There is no air conditioning, which made a stay on the top floor very uncomfortable at night. There was a tabletop fan in the room, but it made a lot of noise."

Reviewed on Jun 10, 2025

Hotel KRONE - eat, drink, stay
Santre dolomythic home

Santre dolomythic home

5 out of 5
Via Centrale, Bressanone, BZ
The price is ¥109,582 per night from Jul 29 to Jul 30
¥109,582
¥121,780 total
Jul 29 - Jul 30
includes taxes & fees
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! (78 reviews)
Perfection
"This hotels absolutely stunning and the staff are all amazing! Food was world class, definitely recommend"

Reviewed on Jun 18, 2025

Santre dolomythic home
GrünerBaum Hotels

GrünerBaum Hotels

4 out of 5
Via Stufles 11, Brixen, Bressanone, BZ
The price is ¥31,841 per night from Jul 20 to Jul 21
¥31,841
¥36,266 total
Jul 20 - Jul 21
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4-star spa hotel in Bressanone. Enjoy free WiFi, 2 indoor pools, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (347 reviews)
B
"Excellent facility, staff very accommodation and helpful. Central to old part of town. Easy access to bus services and shops. Room too warm (July) air conditioning would not adjust below 19 deg"

Reviewed on Jul 2, 2025

GrünerBaum Hotels
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.
Spacious mid-century style villa with views over Bressanone and private hot tub

Spacious mid-century style villa with views over Bressanone and private hot tub

Brixen
Stay at this villa in Bressanone. Enjoy free WiFi, a garden, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Acquarena and San Michele Arcangelo Church are located ...
10/10 Exceptional! (23 reviews)
Lovely Property
"We were seven people for a week. Property is very nice. Great loactions. Well equiped. I would rent it again"

Reviewed on Mar 3, 2025

Spacious mid-century style villa with views over Bressanone and private hot tub
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! (223 reviews)
"The room for four if us was spacious with suite and kichenette. The room rate was readonable compared to others in the area. The location was convinient and close to grocery stores as well. We loved staying here and highly recommend it."

Reviewed on Jul 14, 2025

Residence Antares
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! (179 reviews)
"Room was very spacious and surprisingly modern. Quite comfy and quiet considering the construction in the area. Lots of dining and shopping options close by. Very accommodating staff!"

Reviewed on Jul 14, 2025

Residence - Palais Hörtenberg
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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Top Destination
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5/5 - Excellent

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