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Cosmopolitan gateway to the Dolomites, Trento is just a stone’s throw from some of the top hiking, biking, rafting, rock climbing, canyoning, and skiing in northern Italy. From here, travelers top up on outdoor adventure in the surrounding peaks, sip wine in the valley’s vineyards, and head south to explore Lake Garda. The city is more than just a convenient jumping-off point, however, and top things to do in the center include touring the old town to admire highlights like Piazza del Duomo, cathedral, and Buonconsiglio Castle.
Pack your skis in winter, your hiking boots in summer, and your sense of adventure all year round in this top-tier destination for alpine sports: Trento is the main base for visitors seeking the ski runs and scenic trails of the nearby Dolomites. For these reasons, winter and summer are the top seasons to visit the area. Spring and fall bring unpredictable weather and rainy stretches, making exploring the peaks during the shoulder seasons less than ideal; instead, plan to tour the city and its historic landmarks this time of year.
The main metropolis in the Trentino province, Trento sits on a major highway and rail line and is a straightforward reach from other northern Italian cities. The old town is both compact and largely pedestrian-only, so it’s easy to explore on foot. Trento also has a convenient bike-sharing service, and there are a number of bike rental shops in the center. To access the surrounding region, use the train or the Trentino Trasporti buses and coaches.
Trento is home to one of Italy’s largest and most famous Christmas markets, with nearly 100 stands selling holiday decorations, artisan handicrafts, gourmet treats, and more. Beginning at the end of November and ending around January 8, the market stretches across the old town from Piazza di Fiera to Piazza Cesare Battisti. Welcoming about 500,000 visitors a year, it’s most crowded on the weekends and during the week between Christmas and New Year’s.
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The capital of Italy’s alpine region of Trentino-Alto Adige, Trento is known for its historic sights (some dating back to ancient Rome), as well as its unique culture and cuisine that mix Mediterranean and Austrian influences. The city is probably most famous, however, for its convenient proximity to the Dolomites.
...MoreThough many people in the surrounding region of Trentino-Alto Adige speak German or Ladin, most residents of Trento speak Italian as their first language. Signage is generally in two or three languages and German is taught in school, but Italian is the official language of Trento.
...MoreYes, Trento was part of the Austrian Empire for centuries until it was annexed by Italy at the end of World War I. This unique history is reflected still today in the city’s culture and cuisine that mix elements from both Austrian and Italian cultures, and German is the city’s second language.
...MoreTrento is a popular jumping-off spot for hikers, skiers, and lovers of outdoor sports heading to the nearby Dolomite peaks. There are endless walking and cycling trails plus some of the best ski slopes in Europe within striking distance, as well as excellent wine country with cellars open to visitors.
...MoreThe summer months are an excellent time to take in the city’s sights and explore the alpine trails on the surrounding slopes. Trento is also known for its Christmas market that draws thousands of visitors each holiday season, and its location at the foot of the Dolomites makes it a popular winter destination for skiers and boarders.
...MoreTrento’s local cuisine is a delicious blend of Austrian and Italian dishes and ingredients. Canederli and spätzle dumplings share the table with strangolapreti alla trentina pasta and local Marzemino and Teroldego wines. To cap off a meal, apple strudel flavored with cinnamon, pine nuts, and rum-soaked raisins is the city’s go-to dessert.
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