Frequently asked questions about Brixen and its surrounding
(FAQ)

1. Where is South Tyrol? Where is Brixen? Where are the Dolomites?
   South Tyrol is a region in northern Italy, bordering Austria and Switzerland.
   Brixen (Bressanone) is a town in South Tyrol, located in the Eisack Valley bordering to the Dolomites area. The nearest cities are Bolzano, Verona, Innsbruck (Austria).
   The Dolomites are a mountain range in the northern Italian Alps, primarily located in South Tyrol, Trentino, and Belluno.
    
2. Is Brixen part of Italy or Austria?
   Brixen belongs to Italy and is located in the South Tyrol region. German, Italian and Ladin are the spoken languages in South Tyrol.  South Tyrol is German-speaking because the region was part of the Austrian Empire or Habsburg Monarchy until the end of the First World War, in which German was the dominant language. After the war, South Tyrol was ceded to Italy in the Treaty of Saint-Germain in 1919.
   Today, South Tyrol is an autonomous province within Italy, in which German, Italian and Ladin have equal status as official languages. The autonomy and protection of the German language and culture have been guaranteed by international agreements and Italian laws, so that the German-speaking tradition is still strongly present in South Tyrol.
    
3. What is the name of the valley in which Brixen is located?
   The Eisack Valley is one of the main valleys in South Tyrol and stretches from the Brenner Pass to Waidbruck.
    
4. Which river flows through Brixen?
   The rivers Eisack and the Rienz flow through Brixen.
    
5. Which language is spoken in Brixen?
   The main languages spoken in Brixen are German and Italian. Some inhabitants from Val Badia also speak Ladin.
    
6. How do you say hello in South Tyrol?
   Hoi, Hoila and Griaßdi as a welcome or Pfiati, Tschüss and Ciao as a friendly farewell.
    
7. Is Bressanone/Brixen worth a visit?
   Brixen is considered one of the most beautiful towns in South Tyrol with a charming old town centre and impressive natural surroundings in the immediate vicinity of the Dolomites.
   Bressanone/Brixen not only has a centuries-old history, which can be felt in the walls and alleyways, but is also an architectural jewel. The combination of tradition and innovation can be seen not only in the architecture in and around Bressanone/Brixen, but also in the cuisine, shops and accommodation. The nature in the low and high mountains is well worth a visit for both easy and challenging hikes as well as bike tours.
    
8. How can I get around in Bressanone/Brixen?
   You can easily get around Bressanone/Brixen by public transport, on foot or by bike.
   Details on local mobility: https://www.brixen.org/en/my-holiday/local-travel-brixen
    
9. Can I drink the tap water in Brixen?
   Yes, the tap water in Bressanone/Brixen is of high quality and drinkable.
   Water is an issue that is very important to the people of Bressanone/Brixen, you can find more information here: https://www.brixen.org/en/urban-vibes/water-brixen
    
10. Where can I eat and drink in Brixen? Restaurants in Brixen?
    Family-run establishments, specialities from farms around Bressanone/Brixen and an eye for detail. Locals and guests alike enjoy the colourful selection of different restaurants and huts in Bressanone/Brixen, which surprise with typical South Tyrolean dishes and creative creations.
    https://www.brixen.org/en/a-feast-for-the-senses/restaurants-brixen
     
11. Where is Bressanone/Brixen’s tourist office?
    The tourist office of Bressanone/Brixen is located in the old town centre at Regensburger Allee 9/Viale Ratisbona 9 in Bressanone/Brixen and offers information on activities and events.
    The contact details are: +39 0472 27 52 52 info(at)brixen.org , www.brixen.org
     
12. Where can I find the webcams from Bressanone/Brixen?
    The webcams from Bressanone/Brixen are available online on the website here:
     
13. How cold does it get in Bressanone/Brixen in winter?
    Temperatures can drop below freezing, especially at night.
     
14. Where can you stay in Bressanone/Brixen in winter?
    There are many hotels and accommodations that specialise in winter guests.
    You can find an overview here: https://www.brixen.org/en/my-holiday/holidaying-in-brixen/accomodation-search
     
15. Where can you stay overnight in Bressanone/Brixen?
    There are many hotels and accommodation options in Bressanone/Brixen. You can find an overview here: https://www.brixen.org/en/my-holiday/holidaying-in-brixen/accomodation-search
     
16. Where can I hire ski equipment in Bressanone/Brixen?
    In Bressanone/Brixen you can hire ski equipment at the Plose ski area.
     
17. Which huts and mountain pastures are there in Brixen?
    There are a number of huts and mountain pastures in Bressanone/Brixen and the surrounding area. An overview here: https://www.brixen.org/en/exploring-the-great-outdoors/hiking-brixen/huetten-und-almen
     
18. What wellness offers are there in Bressanone/Brixen in winter?
    In Bressanone/Brixen there are numerous wellness offers, for example in the Acquarena, which offers access to various swimming pools, saunas and salt pools. Most of the hotels in and around Bressanone/Brixen are also equipped with a good wellness area and facilities.

1. What is Bressanone/Brixen famous for?
   Brixen/Bressanone is famous for its well-preserved, historic old town centre, which offers a unique blend of medieval and baroque architecture. Particularly outstanding are the magnificent Brixen Cathedral with its cloister and the Hofburg, a former bishop's residence that now houses a museum. Neustift Abbey, one of the most important monasteries in the Alpine region, also attracts numerous visitors. Brixen is also known for its cultural events, such as the Water Light Festival, the MOUNTAINBIKE TESTIVAL, the light and music show, the Christmas market and the traditional bread and strudel market. The town is also a starting point for hikes or bike tours in the surrounding Dolomites and enjoys an excellent reputation for its culinary specialities, including excellent wines and regional dishes.
    
2. What is there to see in Brixen?
   Highlights include: Brixen Cathedral, the cloister, the Hofburg, the Herrengarten, the large and small arcades in the old town centre, the oldest district of Stufels, the Franzensfeste fortress, the Neustift monastery, the Adlerbrücke bridge, the Pharmacy Museum, the local mountain Plose and the Peitlerkofel mountain.
   Top sights: https://www.brixen.org/en/urban-vibes/vibrant-old-town/top-10-sights
    
3. What is the biggest attraction in Bressanone/Brixen?
   Brixen Cathedral is the biggest attraction in the city. There are numerous other highlights, more details can be found here: https://www.brixen.org/en/urban-vibes/vibrant-old-town/top-10-sights
    
4. What is there to see in Brixen/Bressanone?
   The sights include Brixens Cathedral, the cloister, the Hofburg, the Neustift monastery, the Pharmacy Museum and the Franzensfeste fortress.
    
5. Does Brixen/Bressanone have a beautiful old town centre?
   The medieval old town with its picturesque arcades is home to numerous family-run shops, bars and restaurants.
   Yes, Bressanone is a very beautiful town that impresses with its charming, historic flair and picturesque surroundings. The old town is characterised by narrow alleyways, old buildings and magnificent squares that take you on a journey back in time. Bressanone Cathedral and the Hofburg Palace are particularly impressive, inspiring visitors with their architecture and art treasures.
   Bressanone/Brixen is surrounded by a breathtaking mountain landscape that is perfect for hiking and outdoor activities. In winter, the region is transformed into a popular ski resort. In addition, cultural events and festivals, such as the Water Light Festival and the Christmas market, create a special atmosphere. All in all, Brixen offers a successful mix of history, culture and nature, making it an attractive holiday destination.
    
6. Can you shop in Bressanone/Brixen?
   Yes, Brixen offers numerous boutiques, traditional shops, modern concept stores and family-run traditional shops. A special tip is the regional farmers' market where you can find fresh produce from the farmers. https://www.brixen.org/en/a-feast-for-the-senses/local-products/gourmet-food-shops
   You can find all the shops here: https://www.brixen.org/en/urban-vibes/shopping/shops#
    
7. What to do when it rains in Brixen?
   If it rains during your holiday despite around 2000 hours of sunshine a year, there are numerous activities in Brixen and the surrounding area. From swimming in the Acquarena indoor and outdoor pools, climbing and bouldering in the Vertikale to a visit to the town library and the cultural sights in and around Bressanone/Brixen, no one will be bored.
    
8. Which city tours are available in Bressanone/Brixen?
   Bressanone/Brixen offers a variety of guided tours that introduce visitors to the history and culture of the city in many different ways. There are classic city tours through the historic centre that focus on historical and architectural highlights. Special experiences are provided by adventure tours such as ‘Witches, executioners and scoundrels’, which delve into Brixen's dark past, or ‘On the trail of the elephant’, a historical journey through time with actors. These tours are often interactive and offer deep insights into the history of the city.
   All guided tours at a glance:
   https://www.brixen.org/en/urban-vibes/art-and-culture/town-and-theatrical-tours
    
9. When do the shops in Bressanone/Brixen open?
   Most shops in Bressanone/Brixen open at 9.00 am and close at 7.00 pm, with a lunch break from 12.30 pm to 3.00 pm.
    
10. When is the market in Bressanone/Brixen?
    At the weekly market in Bressanone/Brixen you will find stalls selling clothing, shoes, handbags, local products and much more. The weekly market takes place every Monday morning.
    Depending on the season, the farmers' market offers local products directly from farmers in the surrounding area. The Brixen farmers' market takes place every Wednesday and Saturday morning on Hartmannplatz in Brixen.

1. Where can you go hiking in Brixen?
   Brixen offers numerous hiking trails for different levels of difficulty, with impressive views. At the bottom of the valley, you can walk along the Eisack river or through vineyards and orchards. In the low mountain range, chestnut groves invite you to go on hiking tours. If you would like a bird's eye view of Bressanone/Brixen and the surrounding area while hiking, you will find the perfect match on the local mountain Plose, on high alpine pastures and in the Dolomites UNESCO World Heritage Site.
   You can find an overview of the many possibilities here: https://www.brixen.org/en/exploring-the-great-outdoors/hiking-brixen
    
2. Where can I go biking in Bressanone/Brixen
   The region offers numerous cycle paths and mountain bike trails for all ability levels between the historic old town and breathtaking mountains.
   Everything about biking:  https://www.brixen.org/en/exploring-the-great-outdoors/bike-brixen
    
3. What are the top winter activities in Bressanone/Brixen?
   These are the top winter activities in Bressanone/Brixen:
   Skiing on the Plose
   Winter hiking on well-marked trails with panoramic views
   Snowshoe hikes through snow-covered landscapes
   Tobogganing on the Plose or a ride on the PloseBob
   Visits to the huts with cosy moments of enjoyment
   Ski tours
   Visit to the Christmas market and light and music show
   All winter activities: https://www.brixen.org/en/exploring-the-great-outdoors/brixen-winter
    
4. Can you hike in Bressanone/Brixen in winter?
   Yes, there are special winter hiking trails.
   You can find an overview here: https://www.brixen.org/en/exploring-the-great-outdoors/skiing-and-winter-sports/winter-hikes-and-snowshoeing#
    
5. Are there guided snowshoe and winter hikes in Bressanone/Brixen?
   Yes, there are guided snowshoe and winter hikes in Bressanone/Brixen. You can find an overview here: https://www.brixen.org/en/exploring-the-great-outdoors/skiing-and-winter-sports/winter-hikes-and-snowshoeing#
    
6. What is the ski area near Bressanone/Brixen?
   The Plose is the closest ski area to Brixen. The Plose is part of the DOLOMITI SUPERSKI and is also Bressanone's local mountain.   The Plose ski area is just 7 kilometres from the town centre. The Dolomiti Superski ski area boasts 43 kilometres of pistes and a fantastic view of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Dolomites. Beginners and advanced skiers can make their turns on gentle and challenging slopes
   https://www.brixen.org/en/exploring-the-great-outdoors/skiing-and-winter-sports/plose-ski-resort
    
7. How do I get from Bressanone/Brixen to the Plose ski area?
   To get from Bressanone/Brixen to the Plose ski area, you can use public transport and the Plose Ski Shuttle, which runs regularly from the centre of Bressanone/Brixen to the valley station of the Plose gondola lift. Alternatively, the ski area can also be reached by car; it is around 7 km from Bressanone/Brixen. There are plenty of parking spaces at the valley station.
    
8. Where can you go ice skating in Bressanone/Brixen?
   In Bressanone/Brixen you can go ice skating at the Bressanone/Brixen ice rink. You can hire ice skates and other equipment on site.

1. What does the Guestpass Brixen Card include? / What is included in the Guestpass BrixenCard?

The Guestpass Brixen Card offers

• free travel on public transport in South Tyrol
• 1 free ascent and descent with the Plose cable car
• free admission to the Acquarena and ice rink
• free admission to South Tyrolean museums
• Advantages on guided tours and hikes organised by Brixen Tourismus

All details here: https://www.brixen.org/en/my-holiday/brixen-as-a-holiday-destination/guestpass-brixencard

2. How much does the Guestpass Brixen Card cost?

• The Guestpass Brixen Card is only available on arrival at your Guestpass BrixenCard partner business and is free of charge
• The Guestpass BrixenCard is not available for purchase
• The Guestpass BrixenCard is valid from the day of arrival up to and including the day of departure
• Each person receives a personalised card in digital form

3. Is public transportation included in the Guestpass BrixenCard?

The following means of public transportation are included:

• All regional trains in South Tyrol as far as Trento
• All city and intercity buses in South Tyrol
• Cable cars: Ritten, Mühlbach Meransen, Jenesien, Mölten, Vöran and Kahlem
• Ritten narrow-gauge railway and funicular railway to Mendel
• One return journey with PostBus Switzerland from Malles to Müstair
• Validation: The card must be validated for each journey before using public transport.

1. What's going on in Bressanone/Brixen?
   Bressanone/Brixen offers numerous cultural events throughout the year, you can find an overview in the events calendar: https://www.brixen.org/en/my-holiday/events/event-calendar
    
2. What are the events today in Brixen?
   The current events in Bressanone/Brixen can be viewed at the tourist office or online: https://www.brixen.org/en/my-holiday/events/event-calendar
    
3. What's going on in Valle Isarco/Eisacktal?
   The Isarco Valley offers numerous leisure activities such as hiking, cycling and cultural events. An overview of all guided tours, exhibitions, events and the like can be found here:
   https://www.brixen.org/en/my-holiday/events/event-calendar  
    
4. What are the highlight events in Brixen?
   The Water Light Festival in spring, Dine Wine & Music and Summer Emotions in summer, the MOUNTAINBIKE TESTIVAL and market of bread and strudel in autumn and the Christmas market including a light and music show in winter.
   https://www.brixen.org/en/my-holiday/events/event-highlights
    
5. What is the Water Light Festival?
   The Water Light Festival in Bressanone/Brixen is an annual event that transforms the old town centre into a magical setting with impressive light installations and water elements. Artists from all over the world use light and water to emphasise the architecture and importance of water in the region.
   The installations are often interactive and create a magical atmosphere that invites visitors to rediscover the city. The festival celebrates water as a vital resource and emphasises its cultural significance for Bressanone.
   You can find information here: www.waterlight.it
    
6. What are the Summer Emotions in Bressanone/Brixen?
   In July and August we enjoy warm summer evenings at the Brixen SUMMER EMOTIONS. On 4 summer evenings, various bars and restaurants in the old town offer a variety of culinary delights and specialities, aperitifs and cool drinks. Numerous music groups and DJs will turn the historic old town centre into their stage during the Bressanone SUMMER EMOTIONS. On these four summer evenings, the heart of Bressanone/Brixen will once again become a meeting place for locals and guests.
   www.brixen.org/summeremotions
    
7. What is Dine, Wine & Music in Bressanone/Brixen?
   Dine, Wine & Music is a summer event at which various restaurants from Bressanone prepare delicious delicacies on the cathedral square. This is accompanied by excellent South Tyrolean white wines and musical accompaniment from South Tyrolean bands. And all this in front of the marvellous backdrop of Bressanone Cathedral in the open air.
   www.brixen.org/dine-wine-music  
    
8. What is the MOUNTAINBIKE Testival in Brixen?
   The MOUNTAINBIKE Testival takes place every year in autumn. At the largest bike expo in South Tyrol, the TESTIVAL in Brixen, you can expect the new bikes of the season, an extensive touring programme and the perfect trails for testing.
   All information here: https://www.brixen.org/en/exploring-the-great-outdoors/bike/mountainbike-testival
    
9. What is the light and music show in Brixen?
   Every year at Christmas time, Brixen invites you to the magical light and music show in the Hofburg Brixen. Ever-changing light effects are projected onto the historic walls and accompanied by music, which together tell a story that enchants young and old alike. All details here: www.brixen.org/lightshow
    
10. When does the Christmas market in Bressanone/Brixen take place?
    The Christmas market in Bressanone/Brixen is one of the 5 original South Tyrolean Christmas markets. From 29 November 2024 to 6 January 2025, the traditional Christmas market has been held there for over 30 years. Here you will mainly find products that have been made or refined in South Tyrol. Whether it's individual gift ideas for friends and family or simply a cosy get-together with homemade mulled wine, dumpling variations or sweet doughnuts.
     
11. When is the bread and strudel market in Bressanone/Brixen?
    The bread and strudel market takes place every year in October.
    You can find information here: https://www.brixen.org/en/a-feast-for-the-senses/local-products/gourmet-food-shops
     
12. When is the Old Town Festival in Bressanone/Brixen?
    The Old Town Festival takes place every two years in August and is organised by the local population from various leisure associations.
     
13. Is there a Christmas market in Bressanone/Brixen?
    Yes, the Brixen Christmas market is very popular. It is one of the 5 original South Tyrolean Christmas markets and mainly offers products made or refined in South Tyrol. The perfect atmosphere at Christmas time.
    www.brixen.org/christmas
     
14. What winter events take place in Bressanone/Brixen?
    In winter, the Christmas market takes place every year in Brixen on the cathedral square, as well as the light and music show in the Hofburg Brixen, which enchants young and old with immersive light and music effects.