GemmaSouth Tyrol, tucked neatly in the northernmost corner of Italy, is often called a paradise for nature lovers, history buffs, and anyone with a soft spot for medieval charm. If you think Italy is all about Rome, Venice, or Florence, you’re in for a surprise. South Tyrol brings a different kind of magic—towering mountains, lush valleys, apple orchards, and villages that feel like they leaped straight out of a fairy tale. From my own personal experience, wandering through these villages is less about rushing and more about savoring the slow, authentic Italian-Alpine rhythm.
If you’re planning a trip, or just want a mental escape to some of the most charming spots in Europe, here’s a detailed guide to 10 villages in South Tyrol that you truly need to see, explore, and fall in love with.
1. Ortisei – The Heart of Val Gardena
Ortisei is a village that almost feels too perfect to be real. Nestled in the Val Gardena valley, it’s famous for its colorful frescoed buildings, cobbled streets, and a lively pedestrian zone that invites you to stroll without checking your watch.
One of the things that make Ortisei unforgettable is its connection to art. The village has a long tradition of wood carving, and you’ll notice intricate sculptures in many of the local shops and public spaces. If you love hiking, the surrounding Dolomites provide countless trails with breathtaking views.
From my own personal experience, wandering down Via Dolomiti and popping into the small cafés feels like stepping into another era—one where time moves slower, and the smell of freshly baked strudel fills the air. Don’t miss the Seceda cable car for panoramic views that will make your Instagram followers jealous.
2. Castelrotto – Rustic Charm and Rolling Hills
Castelrotto is a village that feels both cozy and grand at the same time. Its central square, Piazza, is lined with historic buildings painted in warm pastel colors. Life here moves gently, almost like it has its own rhythm that you can’t rush.
The village is also a gateway to the Alpe di Siusi, Europe’s largest high-altitude alpine meadow. Hiking here is like walking inside a postcard. You can rent e-bikes or take a gentle stroll to soak in the scenery. And if you time your visit during one of the local festivals, you’ll get a taste of South Tyrolean traditions, from folk dances to hearty mountain dishes.
The humor of the village comes alive in its small quirks—like the way locals casually greet tourists with a mix of German and Italian phrases, leaving you slightly confused but smiling.
3. Glorenza – The Tiny Walled Treasure
If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to step back in time, Glorenza is your answer. This village is tiny but perfectly preserved, with a medieval wall that wraps around it like a protective hug. Walking along the cobblestone streets, you can almost hear the echoes of centuries past.
The main attractions here include the town gates, small squares with charming fountains, and local shops selling artisan goods. Glorenza is a quiet village, so it’s perfect if you’re looking to escape the crowds and simply enjoy a slow-paced day.
One fun tip from my overall experience: visit the village in the early morning when the mist lingers over the streets—it’s hauntingly beautiful and makes for incredible photos.
4. Santa Maddalena – A Picture-Perfect Scene
You’ve probably seen pictures of this village online. Santa Maddalena, in Val di Funes, is famous for the tiny church with its pointed steeple framed by the dramatic Dolomites. The views are postcard-perfect in every season—spring flowers, summer greens, autumn golds, and winter snows.
Hiking in this area is a must. Trails lead you through rolling meadows, past wooden barns, and up into the mountains where the view opens into vast valleys. For photographers and nature lovers alike, Santa Maddalena feels almost unreal, but it’s real, and it’s waiting for you.
Based on my overall experience, the best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon when the light paints the mountains in warm, golden hues—you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a movie scene.
5. Bressanone – History and Heritage
Bressanone, also known as Brixen, is one of South Tyrol’s oldest towns. Its charm lies in its perfect combination of history, culture, and modern comfort. The cathedral and bishop’s palace are must-sees, but don’t skip a walk along the river or exploring the side streets with cozy cafés and small artisan shops.
The Christmas market here is legendary. Even if you’re not a fan of winter festivities, the smell of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine might just change your mind. And if you want a bit of humor, watch locals race to grab the last gingerbread cookie—it’s competitive, entertaining, and completely charming.
6. San Candido – Alpine Adventure Hub
San Candido is a village that’s as much about adventure as it is about charm. It’s located near the Austrian border and serves as a gateway to the Tre Cime di Lavaredo, one of the most iconic mountain ranges in the Dolomites. Hiking, skiing, mountain biking—San Candido has it all.
The village itself is postcard-perfect, with brightly colored houses, a central square bustling with cafés, and the scent of fresh pastries in the air. From my own personal experience, sitting at a café watching skiers descend the slopes while sipping espresso is the kind of memory that stays with you.
7. Vipiteno – Medieval and Magnificent
Vipiteno, or Sterzing in German, is one of the most striking villages in South Tyrol. Its medieval center is lined with narrow streets, colorful facades, and charming towers. The main street, Via Città, is perfect for a leisurely walk and window shopping.
The village also has a strong cultural identity, blending Italian and Austrian influences seamlessly. You can taste this in the local cuisine—think hearty dumplings and delicate pastries served with strong mountain coffee. Vipiteno is small but full of surprises, and exploring it feels like unwrapping a present at every turn.
8. Chiusa – Art and History on Every Corner
Chiusa, or Klausen in German, is a village that perfectly balances history and contemporary charm. It’s famous for its old town with narrow alleyways, frescoed buildings, and small galleries.
One of the most unique aspects of Chiusa is its connection to art. The village has inspired artists for generations, and you can see this influence in local museums, small studios, and even the murals on the walls. Based on my overall experience, taking a slow walk here allows you to discover hidden courtyards and tiny cafés that feel like secret treasures.
9. Corvara – Mountain Luxury with Heart
Corvara, in the heart of Alta Badia, is where luxury meets Alpine authenticity. It’s a hotspot for skiing in winter and hiking in summer, but the village itself has a warm, welcoming vibe.
Don’t let the high-end hotels intimidate you—Corvara has a down-to-earth charm in its cafés, shops, and local markets. From my own personal experience, sitting on a terrace with a cup of hot chocolate and watching the mountains change colors is worth the trip alone.
10. Nova Levante – Lakes, Trails, and Tranquility
Nova Levante, or Welschnofen in German, is the village to visit if you love lakes. The most famous is Lago di Carezza, with its crystal-clear water and reflections of the Latemar mountains. The village is small, serene, and perfect for hiking and photography.
Trails from Nova Levante take you into the forest, past mountain streams, and up to panoramic viewpoints. It’s peaceful, yet each corner feels alive with nature’s beauty. Let yourself wander—you’ll find that sometimes the best experiences are unplanned moments by the lake or a sudden glimpse of wildlife.
Making the Most of Your South Tyrol Adventure
Exploring South Tyrol is not about checking destinations off a list—it’s about immersing yourself in its culture, landscapes, and rhythm. Each village has its own character, history, and charm. Whether it’s the towering Dolomites, the serene alpine meadows, the medieval streets, or the local cuisine, there’s something here that will capture your heart.
From my own personal experience, the secret to truly loving South Tyrol is to slow down, wander without a schedule, and let each village reveal its story. Stop in the cafés, chat with locals, take photographs of unexpected corners, and most importantly, enjoy the small, magical moments that make travel unforgettable.
I’m Gemma, a passionate lifestyle blogger sharing my creative world with you. Gemitaliano.com is my little corner of the internet, glad you’re here.