Day Trip from Venice by Train to Bolzano

Departure:

For a smoother journey, it's best to purchase your train tickets in advance rather than at the station. If you're departing from Venice, take the #2 water ferry to the Venezia Santa Lucia train station. From there, trains to Bolzano typically require one transfer at Verona Porta Nuova, but there's no need to worry — you’ll have ample time to make your connection, usually around 20 minutes. Travel time from Verona to Bolzano is just under two hours, while the journey from Venice, including the transfer, takes approximately three hours. To make the most of your day in Bolzano, plan to depart on an early morning train. This will give you ample time to explore the city.

Arrival:

Upon arriving in Bolzano, exit the train station and walk straight ahead to reach Piazza Walther, the vibrant heart of the city. This picturesque square is lined with charming sidewalk cafés and restaurants, making it the perfect spot to soak in the atmosphere while enjoying a coffee or a local specialty.

Archaeological Museum: The Ice Man: After enjoying a coffee and perhaps a pastry, make your way to the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology to visit Ötzi the Iceman, one of Bolzano’s most famous attractions. Admission is €10 per person, and you’ll want to allow at least an hour to explore the museum’s four fascinating floors, which showcase artifacts and exhibits detailing Ötzi’s life and discovery.

Lunch:

Now it's time to enjoy lunch. Just a few steps from the museum, Café 12 offers a convenient and casual spot to grab a bite. Whether you're looking for a light meal or a quick refreshment, this cozy café is a great choice before continuing your exploration of Bolzano. Address: Via Cassa di Risparmio, 12c, Bolzano

Afternoon:

After lunch, take a leisurely stroll down Via Dr. Josef Streiter, a charming street that offers views of Bolzano’s historic old town on your way to the Cable Car to Renon, a scenic 12-minute ride on the Renon cable car. As you ascend, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the Dolomites and a stunning aerial perspective of Bolzano below. Over a century ago, a cog railway was the primary way to reach the Renon Plateau, but today, the modern cable car offers a smooth and picturesque journey to this alpine retreat.

At the top, you'll arrive in Oberbozen, a charming small alpine village with a few hotels, restaurants and scenic hiking trails. As you step off the cable car, you’ll notice the historic Parkhotel Holzner to your right. Built between 1905 and 1907, this hotel stands as a testament to the region’s rich history.

Pre-dinner:

Do as the locals do and stop at a sidewalk café to unwind with an aperitif. The classic Aperol Spritz is a local favorite, but if you prefer something a bit sweeter, try a Hugo Spritz, made with elderflower syrup, Prosecco, soda water and fresh mint — perfect for a refreshing taste of South Tyrol.

Dinner:

Hopfen & Co. is an excellent restaurant for true South Tyrolean food and is well-known for its craft beers. If you want to do more walking, head to a family-owned restaurant frequented by locals and not tourists with delicious and freshly made Italian food, Stuzzicheria La Casa di Jo.

Return:

It’s been a full day and time to return. If you are interested in more activities to do in Bolzano, there are castles to visit, food tours and more museums.