The majestic Dolomites serve as Brixen’s backdrop.
Scores of travelers trek to Italy each year in order to experience the country’s majestic landscapes, fascinating culture, artistic treasures and renowned cuisine. Visitors flock to Rome, Venice, Milan and Florence for a true taste of Italian flare.
However, the town of Brixen possesses a charm of its own. Located in the province of Bolzano in the South Tyrol region of northern Italy, Brixen holds the title of being the oldest city in Tyrol. Like the rest of the region, Brixen’s architecture, language, food and culture reflect many Austrian influences given its long history. It’s why towns in South Tyrol have both Italian and German names and the buildings follow an Alpine architectural style. Stroll through the cobbled streets of the historic town centre of Brixen. Here you can explore historic squares such as the cathedral square, which is lined with charming cafes and shops. The atmosphere in the old town centre is lively and authentic, and you can literally feel the centuries of history embedded in the walls and alleyways. The old town of Brixen in South Tyrol is not only an architectural gem with historical flair but also a lively place that skillfully balances tradition and innovation.
Brixen/Bressanone, nestled in the enchanting landscape of the Dolomites, boasts majestic peaks that not only offer an impressive backdrop, but also countless options for outdoor activities such as skiing and tobogganing in winter and hiking and mountain biking in the warmer season. Here, surrounded by forests and meadows, lakes and mountains, you will find the perfect setting for relaxing activities and moments of longing. Just seven kilometers from the town of Bressanone/Brixen, the Plose offers one of the most beautiful hiking areas in South Tyrol with fantastic views of the Dolomites. With over 400 kilometers of signposted hiking trails, Brixen offers numerous opportunities to discover the pure nature on foot alone or with the trained hiking guides. Whether hiking, skiing or mountain biking, Brixen offers numerous outdoor activities for the adventurous. Visitors from all around the world come to this region each year for many different reasons. Here are seven of the top attractions:
The Colours of the Cathedral light display.
Water Light Festival
From April 24 to May 12 be impressed, enchanted and inspired by the spectacle for the senses at the Water Light Festival in Brixen and Neustift. Artists from all over the world will reinterpret the cultural treasures and water sites of Brixen and the Neustift monastery and enrich them with light and art installations. Light art is extremely expressive and yet quiet, leaving room for meditative experiences and communal contemplation. Enjoy a journey between light art and environmental awareness.
Brixen chefs place an emphasis on seasonal products.
Culinary Variety
Experience the genuine flavor of local produce. Many restaurants, mountain huts and bars in Brixen, both in the town centre and on the mountains, focus on organic or largely regional menus. They place particular emphasis on seasonal products from the surrounding area, which also supports local suppliers and Alpine agriculture. Thanks to short transport routes, locally and regionally harvested fruit and vegetables can thrive in their natural ripeness, which has a positive effect on quality and flavor. Let yourself be tempted by the unique flavors of the wine soup, the handmade dumplings, the fresh Schlutzkrapfen and the creative reinterpretations of traditional recipes by the Brixen chefs.
Enjoy a wine tasting surrounded by the aromatic wine barrels.
Excellent Wine Experiences
Enjoy a wine tasting directly with the winemakers or treat yourself to a relaxing break in the wine cellar, surrounded by the aromatic wine barrels. The impressive number of vineyards around Brixen gives an impression of the outstanding importance of wine in this region. The mineral white varieties Sylvaner and Kerner are typical of this region. The variety of home-grown wines from numerous winegrowers offers a unique flavor experience. Explore the vineyards, take part in tastings in the city and let yourself be enchanted by the unique flavors on guided tours of the wine cellars. Events such as Neustifter Frühling on April 27 and 28, Treff.Wein on July 26 and Dine, Wine & Music, August 7 offer the best ways to discover the special features of the region's wines.
Each of these gastronomic delights is lovingly made.
Schüttelbrot, Strudel
Discover other local specialties at the South Tyrolean bread and strudel market in Brixen, in addition to the famous Schüttelbrot. Savour handmade delicacies such as Pusterer Breatl, fruit bread, Vinschger Paarl, apple strudel and much more. Each of these gastronomic delights is lovingly made and baked by hand according to traditional recipes. The combination of the picturesque mountains of South Tyrol and this delicious baking tradition promises a wonderful holiday full of culinary discoveries.
Delicious South Tyrolean specialties await you.
Törggelen
Experience hiking fun and culinary delights in the realm of chestnuts and wine. Every year, when the leaves in the Eisack Valley turn bright colors and the grapes and apples are ripe for harvesting, the timeless tradition of Törggelen in South Tyrol unfolds. Delicious South Tyrolean specialities await you in the cosy wine taverns, accompanied by the enticing aroma of roasted chestnuts that fills the air. The authentic Törggelen experience also includes a hike through the multifaceted cultural landscape of the Eisack Valley. Stroll past picturesque vineyards, historic farms and dreamy chestnut groves - a harmonious combination of natural delights and traditional culinary craftsmanship.
Experience bike tours with guides in Brixen.
Mountainbike Testival
Test the latest bike models on guided tours and in the Brixen Bikepark and enjoy the flow of the bike community. The Mountainbike Testival will once again take place in Brixen from Sept. 19 to 22. Brands will be presenting the latest bikes and various equipment at the Bike Expo in the historic centre of Brixen. You can test the bikes in the Brixen Bikepark on Mount Plose and on guided tours with local guides in Brixen and the surrounding area. Children and young people also have the opportunity to gain their first experience on a bike on a skills course as part of the Mountainbike Youngsters program.
The modern architecture respects the surrounding historical environment.
Modern Architecture
Brixen is home to a mix of historical architecture and modern design and has become a stronghold for architecture enthusiasts. The new municipal library, the tourist office and the new music school are a must-see in Brixen. The modern architecture in Brixen often reflects a respectful approach to the surrounding historical environment, integrating contemporary elements into the cityscape.
