Frommer’s Crowns This Lesser-Known City In Italy No. 1 Of ‘Best Places to Go’
Frommer’s Best Place to Go, Brixen [Image by Zairon on Wikimedia Commons]Everyone knows the many attractions of Rome, Venice, Florence and other iconic cities in Italy, but Frommer’s has just named a less-known city in the scenic South Tyrol at the top of its “Best Places To Go” list. Nesting in the Dolomite Mountains, Brixen is like a storybook town, surrounded by gorgeous views in South Tyrol. One thing that will surprise you when entering Brixen is that the primary language here is German. It is one of several picturesque mountain villages blending German, Austrian and Italian heritage.
Brixen In Italy is one of the ‘Best Places To Go’
Cathedral [image by barnyz on Flickr]Brixen is the oldest city in South Tyrol, Italy, a gorgeous and scenic region with quaint mountain villages offering picturesque mountain vistas. However, one thing that is surprising for first-time visitors is the fact that the main language here is German, while the local villages are a fascinating blend of German, Austrian and Italian heritage. Moreover, when Frommer’s released their annual “Best Places to Go” list, Brixen came in at number one.
For those who love mountain views, Brixen is an ideal base to explore the Dolomites and the small towns and villages in the area. They will soon find out just how different the city is from the main Italian cities.
Brixen Town Hall [Image via Picryl]However, the historic town now deserves to take the spotlight as one of the country’s best-kept secrets. Exploring here reveals a surprising blend of cultures, including Austrian, while primarily speaking German.
Moreover, its historical landmarks and delicious local cuisine are a treat for any traveler. Meanwhile, adventure lovers can enjoy hiking and exploring the mountains in the area.
What to do in Brixen?
Hofburg Palace [Image by Ladislav Luppa on Wikimedia Commons]Like many historic destinations in Europe, Brixen boasts a castle and other historic buildings. Moreover, the towns’ wineries are a worthy visit, some of which are located inside castles. One of the best to visit is Burgerhof, which offers the most amazing views and has vacation rental apartments on site.
Among the castles in the area, Castel Tures is a must-visit, which offers guided tours to reveal the castle’s medieval history. Meanwhile, the city offers free public transport to encourage travelers to explore. You just need a “Guestpass” to show as you explore Brixen and the surrounding villages.
When visiting in summer, this pass gives visitors access to the Acquarena pool, a public swimming pool with a backdrop of stunning mountain landscapes.
No overtourism in Brixen
Street view [Image by Zairon on Wikimedia Commons]Many travelers have experienced the overtourism trend in popular destinations in Europe, leading to various taxes and fees to pay to visit. While this might change after Frommer’s makes Brixen famous, at present there are no crowds packing the streets and making it difficult to see local attractions. Venice, particularly, has been hit by overtourism with new daytripper passes to pay to visit the beautiful and historic city.
Moreover, many travelers have had enough of overtourism and are seeking out new, exciting destinations to explore, including Brixen.
How easy is it to get to Brixen?
While tucked away in the foothills of the Dolomites, the town is relatively easy to get to by train, or using a lesser-known airline, SkyAlps in Bolzano close by. There are connections from several major cities, including Berlin, Copenhagen and London.
Learn more about Brixen and its stunning surroundings from the city’s official tourism website.
Anne Sewell: Anne is a freelance writer and travel writer who has spent much of her life in southern Africa (Malawi, Zimbabwe and South Africa, and is now living on the Costa del Sol in southern Spain.