Exploring South Tyrol, Tyrol & Bavaria: Highlights and Must-Visit Towns

In partnership with

From charming alpine villages to dramatic mountain landscapes, the South Tyrol and Tyrol regions, extending across Italy, Austria, and Germany, offer some of Europe’s most stunning scenery and rich cultural heritage. Here’s a guide to the must-visit towns in each area that highlight the natural beauty, architecture, and warm hospitality of this region.

South Tyrol (Italy)

1. Bolzano 

Bolzano, the capital of South Tyrol, is a beautiful blend of Italian and German influences, with a lively city center surrounded by mountains. Known for its wine culture, Bolzano is home to excellent vineyards and wine cellars. The South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology, where you can see the famous Ötzi the Iceman, and the historic Piazza Walther are also must-sees. Don’t miss the markets selling traditional alpine cheeses, wines, and cured meats.

2. Merano 

Famous for its mild climate and thermal baths, Merano has been a spa town since the 19th century, attracting those seeking relaxation in a stunning setting. The town has beautiful gardens, such as the Trauttmansdorff Castle Gardens, with plants from all over the world. The medieval arcades in the town center are great for shopping and enjoying local delicacies, and Merano’s wine cellars offer excellent tastings of local varietals.

3. Brunico (Bruneck) 

This charming town is known for Brunico Castle, dating back to the 13th century, which now hosts the Messner Mountain Museum dedicated to mountain cultures. Brunico is perfect for winter sports, being close to the popular Kronplatz ski area, while in summer, it offers beautiful hiking trails through the Pustertal Valley.

4. Bressanone (Brixen) 

Bressanone is one of South Tyrol’s oldest towns, with baroque architecture, cobbled streets, and a stunning cathedral dating back to the 10th century. In winter, Bressanone has a delightful Christmas market, and in summer, it’s the perfect base for exploring the Isarco Valley. The nearby Plose Mountain offers year-round activities like skiing, hiking, and mountain biking.

Tyrol (Austria)

1. Innsbruck 

The capital of Tyrol, Innsbruck is a beautiful mix of imperial history and alpine sports culture. Highlights include the Golden Roof, a late-Gothic balcony in the Old Town, and the Imperial Palace. Innsbruck is a major hub for skiing, snowboarding, and mountaineering, while the Nordkette cable car offers breathtaking views of the city and mountains.

2. Kitzbühel 

Known for its picturesque alpine architecture, Kitzbühel is one of Austria’s premier skiing destinations, famous for the Hahnenkamm race, one of the most challenging downhill events in the world. In summer, it’s a paradise for hiking, biking, and golfing with idyllic meadows and lakes surrounding the town. Kitzbühel’s charming cobblestone streets are filled with boutique shops, cafes, and historic buildings.

3. Hall in Tirol 

A quieter alternative to Innsbruck, Hall is a beautifully preserved medieval town. Its Old Town is a gem of Gothic and Renaissance architecture, and the Hasegg Castle with its famous mint tower is well worth a visit. Hall is also a great spot for exploring the nearby mountains, making it a good base for outdoor enthusiasts.

4. Seefeld 

Known for its cross-country skiing and hosting two Winter Olympics, Seefeld is an enchanting alpine village that combines sport and leisure. It’s particularly romantic in winter with cozy chalets, snowy landscapes, and a lively Christmas market. In summer, Seefeld offers beautiful hiking trails, lakes for swimming, and some of the best wellness facilities in the region.

Bavaria (Germany)

1. Garmisch-Partenkirchen 

Famous as a winter sports hub and known for its old-world charm, Garmisch-Partenkirchen is surrounded by the Bavarian Alps, offering excellent skiing and hiking. The Zugspitze, Germany’s highest peak, can be reached from here by cable car and train. This town is also known for its beautifully painted alpine buildings and historic churches.

2. Mittenwald 

Mittenwald is often called a storybook village with its brightly painted houses and traditional architecture. Known for its violin-making heritage, the town offers a fascinating Geigenbaumuseum (Violin Making Museum). It’s also the gateway to the Karwendel Alpine Park, one of Germany’s largest nature reserves, making it ideal for hikers and nature lovers.

3. Oberammergau 

Known worldwide for its Passion Play, which takes place every ten years, Oberammergau is a charming village with a rich history. The town’s buildings are adorned with Lüftlmalerei—vivid frescoes depicting biblical stories and scenes from village life. Oberammergau is also known for its woodcarving tradition and access to the beautiful Ammergau Alps.

4. Berchtesgaden 

Located near the border with Austria, Berchtesgaden offers stunning views and fascinating history. The Königssee lake, with its emerald waters surrounded by sheer cliffs, is one of the region’s most beautiful sites. Berchtesgaden National Park offers hiking trails that showcase breathtaking alpine scenery. History enthusiasts can visit the Eagle’s Nest, a mountaintop retreat built during WWII.

Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventure, exploring historic sites, or simply relaxing amid breathtaking scenery, the regions of South Tyrol, Tyrol, and Bavaria provide a perfect blend of culture, natural beauty, and leisure. These picturesque towns each offer their own unique character and experiences, making them a dream for any traveler looking to explore Europe’s Alpine wonders.

Email us to plan your perfect escape [email protected]

Compare Car Insurance Rates

Serious Savings with
No Hidden Fees and No Catch

Want to pay less on your auto insurance? Who doesn’t? We’ve already helped millions of people find exclusive rates and discounts.

Get Cheaper Rates