Getting Around Bolzano. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Public Transportation

Bolzano offers a well-integrated public transport system that connects the city center with its suburbs and the wider South Tyrol region.

Buses cover the city and connect to surrounding towns. Regional trains link Bolzano with other towns like Merano and Bressanone. Three prominent cable cars connect Bolzano to elevated plateaus.

Public Transport Options

Buses (SAD Nahverkehr): Extensive local bus network covering the city and surrounding areas.
Trains (Trenitalia, SAD): Regional trains connect Bolzano with other towns in South Tyrol.
Cable Cars (Funivie): Three prominent cable cars connect Bolzano to elevated plateaus for scenic views.
Important Hubs: Bolzano Train Station (Bahnhof) and the Bus Station (Autostazione).

Ticketing & Fares

Single tickets available at tabaccherie or from drivers. The Bolzano Card is highly recommended for tourists.

Hours & Frequency

City buses generally run from early morning to late evening. Regional transport follows specific schedules. Cable cars have seasonal variations.

Accessibility

Newer buses are generally low-floor and accessible. Train stations are largely accessible, as are cable cars.

Navigation Tips

Digital & Card Use

Download the "Südtirol Mobil" app for real-time schedules and route planning.
The Bolzano Card truly maximizes your exploration. Many hotels offer it to guests.
Always validate all paper tickets upon boarding the bus or before boarding a train.

Card Benefits

Bolzano Card: Unlimited public transport throughout South Tyrol.
Bolzano Card: Free entry to over 90 museums and attractions, including Ötzi.
It provides great value for visitors exploring beyond the city center.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Licensed Taxis

White with "TAXI" sign, metered. Found at stations and Piazza Walther.

Fares & Payment

Metered fares start around €5-€8. Cash is common, credit cards accepted by some.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Uber Black available, Uber Pop/X not. Free Now might have limited presence.

Safety Tips

Ensure taxi has a meter. Confirm driver/vehicle on app before entering.

Rental Options

Car, motorcycle, and bicycle rentals provide flexibility for exploring beyond the city center.

Car Rental Requirements

Companies: Hertz, Europcar, Avis, Sixt, Budget, Enterprise at airports and city.
Age: Must be at least 21 years old (young driver surcharge under 25).
Licenses: Valid driver's license from home country and an International Driving Permit (IDP) for non-EU.
Payment: Credit card in main driver's name for the deposit. Book in advance for better rates.

Driving Laws & Parking

Driving Side: Drive on the right-hand side. Seatbelts mandatory for all.
Headlights: Mandatory even during daytime on motorways and main rural roads.
Winter Tires/Chains: Mandatory on many roads from November 15 to April 15.
Parking: Limited and expensive in city center. Use underground garages. Avoid ZTL.

Cycling & Road Conditions

Bicycle Rentals: Several shops in the city rent bikes (city bikes, e-bikes, mountain bikes).
Bicycle Infrastructure: Extensive network of well-maintained cycling paths, especially along rivers.
Safety: Helmets are not legally mandatory for adults but highly recommended.

Road Conditions: Generally excellent. Mountain roads can be narrow, winding, and steep.
Watch for cyclists: Be aware of pedestrians in shared spaces and traffic on roads without dedicated paths.
No-go areas: Main motorways (like the A22) are strictly off-limits to cyclists and pedestrians.

Motorcycle & Scooter Rentals

Availability

Available from specialized local shops.

Requirements

Valid motorcycle license (A category) or A1/B for scooters.

Engine Size Dependent

License type depends on engine size.

Walking & Cycling

Bolzano's compact size and dedication to green spaces make walking and cycling appealing ways to explore. The city's Altstadt (old town) is largely pedestrianized and ideal for walking.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

Explore arcaded streets (Via dei Portici/Laubengasse), Piazza Walther, and Piazza delle Erbe.
Oswald Promenade offers scenic views and connects to different parts of the city.
The Talferwiesen (Talfer Meadows) along the Talfer river are popular for leisurely walks and picnics.
Guided walking tours focus on history, culture, or culinary aspects.

Bicycle Infrastructure

Extensive network of well-maintained cycling paths, notably along the Eisack and Adige rivers.
Paths connect the city to other towns in South Tyrol, like Merano and Trento.
Cycling is a popular way to get around the city and explore the surrounding valleys.
Main motorways are strictly off-limits to cyclists and pedestrians.

Specialized Transportation

Cable Cars

Renon, Kohlern, and Jenesien cable cars are integral to the local transport system.

Offer scenic ascents and access to trails.

Renon Tram

A historic narrow-gauge electric train runs on the Renon plateau.

Seamlessly connects with the Renon cable car.

Accessibility Services

Bolzano makes efforts towards accessibility. Newer public buses and cable cars are generally accessible.

Accessible taxis may be available on request.

Unique Transport Experience

Renon Cable Car & Tram Combo

Take the Renon Cable Car up to Soprabolzano for incredible panoramic views.
From there, hop on the historic Renon tram, a charming ride through the plateau.
This combination delivers a memorable experience unique to the region, included in the Bolzano Card.

Other Transport Notes

Bolzano does not have a dedicated hop-on-hop-off bus service.
Organized day tours to the Dolomites are offered by local tour companies.
Boat taxis and water transportation are not applicable in Bolzano.

Road Conditions & Safety

Roads are generally safe and well-maintained.
Mountain roads can be winding and steep; drive with care.
Watch for cyclists, especially on dedicated bike paths or shared roads.
Speed limits are enforced: urban 50 km/h, secondary 90 km/h, main 110 km/h, motorways 130 km/h.

While most of Bolzano is safe, exercise caution in isolated areas after dark, as in any city.
Parking is limited and expensive in the city center.
Avoid ZTL areas (Limited Traffic Zones) in the historic center; violations result in fines.
Main motorways are strictly off-limits to cyclists and pedestrians.

Important Information for Public Transit

The Bolzano Card offers excellent value and convenience for exploring the region extensively.

Bolzano Card Advantages

Unlimited travel on all public transport in South Tyrol (buses, trains, cable cars).
Free entry to over 90 museums and attractions, including the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology.
Available for 3 or 7 days, often provided free by participating accommodations.
It provides great value and convenience for visitors.

Public Transport Tips

Download the "Südtirol Mobil" app for real-time schedules and route planning.
Always validate paper tickets upon boarding the bus or before boarding a train.
Failure to validate tickets can result in fines.
Route maps are available at bus stops, tourist information offices, and online.

Taxi & Ride-Sharing Details

Taxi Availability

Licensed taxis are white with a "TAXI" sign on the roof.

Taxi stands at train station & Piazza Walther.
Can call a taxi service for pickup.
Hailing on street less common but possible.

Fare Structure

Fares are metered, starting with a base fare.

Surcharges for night service, Sundays, holidays, and luggage.
Payment usually cash, many accept credit cards (confirm with driver).
Licensed taxis are generally safe and reliable.

Ride-Sharing Specifics

Uber Black (professional drivers) is available in Bolzano.

Uber Pop/X (private drivers) is not available.
Free Now app might have limited presence.
Confirm driver/vehicle match app details before entering.

Important Accessibility Notes

Accessibility Challenges

Cobblestones in the old town can present challenges for mobility.
Some older regional trains may have steps, impacting accessibility.
Always inquire in advance for specific accessibility needs.

Safety Reminders

Ensure the taxi has a meter and that it is running.
Be aware of traffic and pedestrians in shared areas.
Avoid walking in isolated areas after dark.

General Transportation Tips

Efficient Movement

Bolzano's compact size makes walking the city center a pleasant experience.
Utilize the extensive network of cycling paths for local exploration.
The local bus system is well-integrated and reaches most urban areas.
Regional trains connect to nearby towns, offering scenic routes.

Strategic Planning

Obtain a Bolzano Card for unlimited public transport and museum access.
Check seasonal schedules for cable cars and public transport routes.
Plan day trips in advance, considering travel times and connections.
If driving, be aware of ZTL zones and parking regulations in the city center.

City Center Strolls

The historic center of Bolzano invites leisurely exploration on foot.

Mountain Access

Cable cars provide quick access to high-altitude areas for hiking and relaxation.

Efficient Public Transport

Maximizing Your Card

The Bolzano Card covers buses, trains, and all local cable cars, including Renon and Kohlern.
This allows for seamless travel across the entire South Tyrol region.
It is a tourist's best friend for convenience and cost savings.

Local Insights

Use the "Südtirol Mobil" app for real-time information on all public transport.
Always remember to validate your tickets; local inspectors conduct checks.
Tourist information offices provide detailed maps and schedules.

Final Tip for Getting Around

Take the Renon Cable Car up to Soprabolzano. From there, hop on the historic Renon tram. This combination delivers both incredible panoramic views and a charming ride through the plateau, providing a memorable experience unique to the region.

Consider using public transport and walking for city exploration, and only rent a car for specific excursions into the wider Dolomites region where public transport options may be less frequent.

Getting Around Bolzano