MileHacker Logo
Bolzano Travel Checklist

Bolzano Travel Checklist

Bolzano Trentino Alto Adige, Italy Travel Guide

Essential Preparations

Follow this timeline to organize your trip effectively.

3-6M

Months Before

Passport & Visa

Check validity (3 months beyond return, issued within 10 years for Schengen). Apply for any necessary visas.

Flights & Accommodation

Book flights and main accommodation, specifically for high season or special events.

Insurance & Driving

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance. Obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) if driving.

1-2M

Months Before

Tours & Connectivity

Book essential tours/activities. Arrange a local SIM card or eSIM, or check roaming options.

Itinerary & Language

Plan your rough itinerary. Begin learning basic Italian and/or German phrases.

Health & Funds

Consult your doctor about recommended vaccinations. Obtain euros or confirm ATM compatibility for international withdrawals.

2-4W

Weeks Before

Confirmations & Copies

Confirm all bookings: flights, hotels, tours, car rentals. Make digital and physical copies of documents.

Bank & Money

Inform your bank and credit card companies of travel dates. Obtain euros (cash) for initial expenses.

Packing & Apps

Pack appropriate clothing. Assemble your Personal first aid kit. Charge devices and Portable power banks. Download essential apps.

Advance Bookings

Flights, main accommodation, car rental (if applicable), high-demand tours, and specific fine dining reservations require booking well in advance.

Specific Requirements

  • Flights and main accommodation for peak season.
  • Car rental if driving.
  • High-demand tours and dining reservations.
  • Verify passport and visa validity.

Pre-Trip Research

Familiarize yourself with local culture, transport, and weather to enhance your trip.

Research Areas

  • Bolzano's unique bilingual culture and history.
  • Public transport options and the benefits of the Bolzano Card.
  • Local weather forecasts closer to your departure date.
  • Medical preparedness for your journey.

Home Preparation

Secure your home and manage necessities during your absence.

Care Arrangements

  • Arrange pet care or house-sitting if needed.
  • Stop mail or newspaper delivery.
  • Pay any bills due during your absence.
  • Secure your home: lock windows and doors.

Digital Prep

  • Charge all your electronic devices.
  • Create a digital folder on your phone and cloud storage for documents.
  • Finalize your travel money arrangements.
  • Inform a trusted neighbor of your travel dates.

Important Checkpoints

  • Make copies (digital and physical) of important documents.
  • Store these copies separately from the originals.
  • Inform your bank and credit card companies of travel dates.
  • Obtain euros (cash) for initial expenses.

Document Organization Tip

Create a digital folder on your phone and cloud storage for all your travel documents. This provides easy access to confirmations, passports, and insurance details, and serves as a backup.

Arrival Checklist

These steps aid a smooth arrival in Bolzano.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • 1
    Clear Immigration and Customs

    If applicable, proceed through immigration and customs processes.

  • 2
    Collect Luggage

    Retrieve your baggage from the carousel.

  • 3
    Locate ATMs

    Find ATMs for cash if you need euros immediately. Airport/train station ATMs generally have good rates.

Orientation Strategies

  • Connect to Local Wi-Fi

    Activate your local SIM or eSIM, or connect to available Wi-Fi.

  • Locate Tourist Information

    Find the Tourist Information Office at Bolzano train station or Piazza Walther for maps and local advice.

  • Neighborhood Walk

    Take a walk around your accommodation neighborhood to familiarize yourself.

Initial Purchases & Transport

Currency Exchange

Use ATMs at the airport or train station for good exchange rates.

Avoid airport currency exchange kiosks, as they often have unfavorable rates.

Bolzano Card Purchase

Purchase a Bolzano Card if it is not provided by your accommodation.

This card covers public transport and museum entries.

Transport to Accommodation

Pre-plan your transfer (bus, train, or taxi) from your arrival airport or train station to your accommodation.

Understand the public transport system and locate your nearest stops.

Arrival Strategy

Pre-planning your transfer and having immediate cash options on arrival contribute to a stress-free start to your trip.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for your departure to make for a stress-free end to your trip.

Shopping & Refunds

  • Factor in time for last-minute souvenir shopping.
  • If shipping items home, inquire about services at post offices or specialized shops.
  • Keep receipts for VAT refund (Tax Free Shopping) if applicable.
  • Ensure you have all necessary forms from participating stores for VAT refunds.

Departure Logistics

  • Allow ample time for travel to the airport or station, check-in, security, and passport control.
  • Check your flight status or train schedules the day before for any last-minute changes.
  • Pack your luggage considering any weight limits for your flight.
  • Organize all documents needed for a smooth departure.

VAT Refund Procedures

Claiming your Value Added Tax refund can be a simple process with proper steps.

Steps for Refund

  • Present items, receipts, and passport to customs.Step 1
  • Do this at your final EU departure point (airport, train station, or border crossing).Step 2
  • Complete this process before checking in luggage.Step 3
  • Follow instructions for collecting your refund (cash or card credit).Step 4

Return Trip Details

  • Reconfirm your return flight or train details.
  • Organize any items you plan to ship home.
  • Double-check all necessary travel documents.
  • Confirm any home-care arrangements for your return.

Final Travel Advice

Before heading to the airport or train station for departure, check the latest travel advisories and security requirements.