TYROL, ITALY ALTO ADIGE ROAD TRIP: BOLZANO TO LIVIGNO

Your journey begins in the cultural mountaineering hub of Bolzano, the capital city of Italy's South Tyrol region, where you'll have the opportunity to tour world-renowned museums, galleries, and marketplaces. Immerse yourself in the charming Alpine culture then set out along the Adige River through endless vineyards set against a backdrop of dramatic snowcapped bluffs and cliffs. Make a pit stop at the lovely village of Merano or Prato Allo Stelvio before taking on the exhilarating hairpin turns of Stelvio's pass as you enter the vast pristine wilderness of Stelvio National Park. Finally, you're invited to discover the mountainside winter wonderlands of Bormio and Livigno to cap off your unforgettable road trip through Alto Adige.
     
TYROL, ITALY ALTO ADIGE ROAD TRIP PLANNER DAY 1: BEAUTIFUL BOLZANO
ATTRACTIONS AND THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN BOLZANO:
Arrive at the Bolzano F. Baracca Airport and you'll suddenly find yourself entranced amidst grandiose Alpine mountains and farmland valleys in a city that is considered the "capital of the Alps." Beautiful scenery aside, Bolzano is home to dozens of fantastic museums and hosts a number of annual music festivals covering everything from contemporary arts to Renaissance and Baroque classics. Visit the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology and see the famous Iceman Otzi or stop in the New City Theatre and catch an opera, ballet, or musical. Discover the rich history of the area on an architectural tour of sites like Runkelstein Castle, Dominican's Church, and Maretsch Castle then take a walk down Arcades and browse the Italian fashion outlets. Don't miss out on the stunning views you can have while hovering thousands of meters above sea level on a heart-stopping cable car ride at Funivia Renon!  If you're visiting during the holidays you'll also have the chance to shop at the world-renowned Christmas markets, Winterwald and Christkindlmarkt, which earned Bolzano the title of "Italian Capital of Christmas."
 

     
TYROL, ITALY ALTO ADIGE ROAD TRIP PLANNER DAY 2: THE HAIRPINS OF STELVIO PASS
ATTRACTIONS, ACTIVITIES, AND DRIVING STELVIO PASS:
This iconic section of steep winding road wanders between the mountains of the Ortler Alps, offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the exhilarating capabilities of a powerful Italian luxury or sports car rental. Test the limits of your vehicle on the hairpin turns or take a more leisurely cruise, soaking in the scenery provided by the surrounding alpine peaks.  Regardless of your pace, traversing the highways of Stelvio's Pass will take your breath away as you tour the ethereal beauty of the magnificent Italian Alps in awe-stricken glee!

Take a break from the exciting drive along Stelvio's Pass and stop by one of the picturesque mountain towns along the way. You'll be able to enjoy a myriad of outdoor activities at Prato Allo Stelvio or Trafoi, from hiking and snow-shoeing to camping in Stelvio National Park and more. Take the longest sleigh ride of your life down a 3km winding forest trail on a traditional toboggan or ski the powdery slopes of Solda. Unwind with some apres-ski drinks in a Jacuzzi as you admire the resplendent wilderness after a full day of exploration and you'll quickly realize why the Alto Adege region has come to be known as the quintessential place to experience the Italian Alps.
 

     
TYROL, ITALY ALTO ADIGE ROAD TRIP PLANNER DAY 3: EXPLORE BREATHTAKING BORMIO
ATTRACTIONS, SKI RESORTS, AND YEAR-ROUND THINGS TO DO IN BORMIO:
Your journey southward through Stelvio's Pass in Alto Adige will lead you to the lovely town of Bormio, located on the Southern border of Stelvio National Park in the Lombardy region of Italy. This little-known hidden gem is host to an array of intriguing natural thermal springs supplemented by many renowned health and wellness spas where you can reap the benefits of the organically heated mineral water with everything from mud baths to steam inhalation treatments. Treat yourself to a massage at one of the local beauty and health centers after a vigorous day on the slopes of Bormio Ski Resort or continue your adventure as you explore the pristine backcountry on a hiking tour. Take the family along to the Palaghiaccio ice skating rink, go on a snowshoeing adventure, or escape the elements and stop in at one of the fascinating museums in town. The Civic Museum of Bormio offers a slew of ancient medieval artifacts and the Mineralogical and Natural Museum of Bormio will take you on a journey through time, dissecting the physical history of the Alps.

Bormio isn't just a destination for snow lovers - this popular locale offers plenty of sights and attractions for those who prefer traveling in the warmer months when the forests and valleys erupt in verdant splendor. Visit the lush foothills of Lombardy in the summer and enjoy golfing on one of the most beautiful courses in Italy at Bormio Golf Club. Take a daring downhill mountain biking ride through Bormio Bike Park or cycle the smooth hilly roads outside of town as you admire the panoramic landscapes around you. Camping is also a great way to save money on a night's stay while you immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Stelvio National Park.

Bormio is a quaint but thriving tourism center offering fantastic access to Stelvio National Park and all the treasures of the surrounding Alpine landscape. Get a guaranteed best rate on a rental car through Auto Europe and you'll be able to see and do it all in Bormio at your own pace and convenience!
 

TYROL, ITALY ALTO ADIGE ROAD TRIP PLANNER DAY 4: ADVENTURE AND RELAXATION ON A LIVIGNO HOLIDAY
LIVIGNO SKI RESORTS AND ATTRACTIONS BEYOND:
Upon arriving in Livigno, known fondly as the "Little Tibet" of Italy, you'll discover a wonderful city full of friendly locals, trendy shops, and fun activities to enjoy year-round. Cycle the iconic road around magnificent Lake Livigno or challenge yourself to an exciting ride on the mountain bike trails at Mottolino Fun Mountain. Hike your way through gorgeous forest pathways to a scenic panoramic view or take an easier way up on one of many cable car rides that depart right from downtown.

The colder months transform Livigno into a winter wonderland where you can enjoy some of the best snow in the world while taking part in a diverse selection of winter sports. Ski downhill or cross-country amidst thousands of acres of pristine alpine powder or snowshoe through an ethereal white-blanketed landscape. You can even visit the Sleddog Husky Village to try your hand at something new and "mush" your own dog sled! Don't forget to take some time to relax at Aquagranda Wellness Park, the premier wellness spa in Livigno, where you can awaken your senses and stimulate both body and mind in a soothing and sleek modern atmosphere. Livigno is also home to incredible shopping opportunities, with over 250 chic duty-free outlets in town.

The lovely locale of Livigno is truly a perfect place to cap off your excursion through the Italian Alps. Spend a few days exploring the town, tour around majestic Lake Livigno, or even continue your journey with a day trip into nearby Switzerland. All the treasures of nature and chic Italian culture are yours to behold in Livigno and with a great rate on a rental car with Auto Europe you can explore the entire area at your own pace and direction!