Camping Guide | Südtirol

South Tyrol, Italy's northernmost region, is nestled in the Alps and borders Austria and Switzerland to the north. Geographically, it belongs to the Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its striking rock formations and breathtaking panoramas. The region extends mainly across the province of Bolzano, which is both German- and Italian-speaking, reflected in the culture, place names, and gastronomy. Arriving by car is easiest via the Brenner Motorway A22, which runs north to south through South Tyrol. From Munich, you can reach Bolzano in about four hours. Tolls for the Brenner Motorway are approximately €11 for a one-way trip (as of 2024). Alternatively, you can take the SS12 main road, which runs parallel to the motorway but takes significantly longer. South Tyrol is also easily accessible by train. There are direct train connections from Munich, Innsbruck, and Verona to Bolzano. Trains run several times a day. From Bolzano station, regional trains and buses take you to the various valleys and towns. The journey from Munich to Bolzano by train takes about 5 hours. For air travelers, the nearest airports are Bolzano (BZO), Verona (VRN), and Innsbruck (INN). Bolzano airport mainly offers regional connections. Verona and Innsbruck have better international connections. From there, you can continue to South Tyrol by train or bus. A transfer from Verona airport to Bolzano takes about 2.5 hours by bus. Once there, the best way to get around is by car, bus, or bicycle. Many valleys are well-served by buses, and there are numerous cycle paths ideal for exploration. The South Tyrol Mobilcard allows free use of all public transport in the region.

South Tyrol can be roughly divided into different sub-regions, each with its own character and charm. The Adige Valley, stretching from Bolzano to Merano, is known for its orchards, vineyards, and picturesque villages. Here you will find numerous campsites surrounded by nature, ideal for families and gourmets. Places like Eppan and Kaltern invite you to wine tastings and hikes. The Isarco Valley, located north of Bolzano, is characterized by steep slopes, castles, and monasteries. Bressanone, the oldest town in South Tyrol, is a cultural center with a magnificent cathedral and a historic old town worth seeing. In the side valleys like the Val di Funes and the Lüsner Valley, you will find smaller, nature-oriented campsites particularly suitable for those seeking peace and quiet. The Puster Valley, extending eastward from Bressanone to the border with East Tyrol, is the longest valley in South Tyrol. This is where the famous ski and hiking areas of Plan de Corones and the Sesto Dolomites are located. In the summer months, the Puster Valley is a paradise for hikers and mountain bikers. The campsites here are often larger and offer good infrastructure for families with children. The Venosta Valley, west of Merano, is known for its dry climate and high mountains. Here you will find the Stelvio National Park with the highest mountain in South Tyrol, the Ortler. The Venosta Valley is a paradise for mountaineers and hikers. The campsites are often simpler and provide a good starting point for alpine tours. The Dolomites, stretching across eastern South Tyrol, are a UNESCO World Heritage site and offer a unique landscape. This is where the famous resorts of Val Gardena, Alpe di Siusi, and Alta Badia are located. The Dolomites are a paradise for hikers, climbers, and skiers. The campsites here are often higher-priced and offer a high standard.

The camping landscape in South Tyrol is diverse and offers something for every taste and budget. There are an estimated 250 campsites in the region, many of which are family-run and offer a personal atmosphere. You will find large resort sites with pools, animation, and wellness areas as well as small, nature-oriented campsites in the middle of the mountains or by one of the numerous swimming lakes. Agriturismo, or camping on a farm, is very popular in South Tyrol. Here you can buy regional products directly from the producer and experience country life up close. Pitches for motorhomes are also widespread, often equipped with supply and disposal stations. Prices for a pitch vary depending on the season, location, and facilities. In the high season (July/August), you should expect prices between €30 and €50 per night for two people. In the low season (May/June and September/October), prices are often significantly lower, sometimes under €20 per night. Additional costs may apply for electricity, showers, and tourist tax. The size of typical pitches also varies. On larger sites, the plots are often demarcated and offer enough space for a caravan, motorhome, and awning. On smaller sites, the pitches are often left natural and offer more privacy. Whether you prefer a shady or sunny pitch depends on your personal preference. In the summer months, a shady spot is often more pleasant, while in spring and autumn, the sun provides welcome warmth. The sanitary standard at campsites in South Tyrol is generally very good. Many sites have modern sanitary facilities with showers, toilets, sinks, and washing machines. Wi-Fi is also available at many sites, although quality can vary depending on the location. The power supply is usually fused at 6-10 amps. Reservations are recommended, especially in the high season, as the most popular campsites are often fully booked. Last-minute opportunities exist mainly in the low season or at smaller sites.

Tolls apply for the Brenner Motorway A22. You can pay the toll either in cash, by credit card, or with a toll box. Current toll rates can be found on the Brenner Motorway website. Digital section tolls are also possible. The cost for a one-way trip from the Austrian border to Bolzano is approx. €11 (as of 2024). Diesel prices in Italy are generally slightly higher than in Germany. Gas stations along the motorway are usually open 24/7, while stations in towns often take a lunch break and are closed on Sundays. Supermarkets such as Lidl, Eurospar, and Conad are widespread in South Tyrol. Opening hours are usually Monday to Saturday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Some supermarkets are also open on Sunday mornings. In tourist centers, there are often smaller shops open until late in the evening. German gas cylinders cannot be easily exchanged in South Tyrol. You will either need an adapter or you must buy an Italian gas cylinder. Adapters are available in camping shops. Disposal stations for gray water and toilets are available at most campsites. There are also service areas with disposal facilities along the motorway. Mobile network coverage in South Tyrol is generally good. Roaming charges do not apply within the EU. However, network coverage may be limited in remote areas. Medical care in South Tyrol is good. There are hospitals in Bolzano, Merano, Bressanone, and Brunico. Pharmacies are available in all larger towns. The emergency number is 112. Wild camping is generally prohibited in South Tyrol and is punished with heavy fines. There are environmental zones in some cities where only vehicles with a valid sticker are allowed to drive. Tap water in South Tyrol is generally of drinking water quality. However, it may be chlorinated, which can affect the taste.

The low season in South Tyrol (May/June and September/October) has many advantages: fewer tourists, milder temperatures, and lower prices. Especially in spring, the fruit trees bloom and the landscape shines in full glory. In autumn, the larch forests change color and the air is clear and fresh. A lesser-known spot is Lake Braies (Pragser Wildsee), an idyllic mountain lake in the Braies Valley. You can reach it via the SS47 and SP47. The lake is surrounded by steep rock walls and offers a breathtaking panorama. A boat trip on the lake is particularly beautiful. Every Saturday, a large weekly market takes place in Bolzano where you can buy regional products, clothing, and souvenirs. Merano also has a weekly market worth seeing on Fridays. Many wineries and farm shops offer direct sales where you can taste and buy wine, cheese, bacon (Speck), and other specialties. In autumn, the Törggelen takes place in many towns, a traditional festival where young wine and roasted chestnuts are served. The Dumpling Festival (Knödelfest) in Vipiteno is also a highlight, where various types of dumplings are offered. Be sure to try the South Tyrolean Schlutzkrapfen, a type of ravioli filled with spinach and ricotta. Speckknödel (bacon dumplings) and Tirtlan (fried flatbread) are also typical dishes of the region. Visit the Buschenschänke (farm taverns), where you can enjoy traditional dishes and wines from their own production. A day trip to Lake Garda is worthwhile, especially if you are looking for a change from the mountain panorama. The drive from Bolzano to Lake Garda takes about 2 hours. Visit the picturesque town of Riva del Garda or Limone sul Garda.