Bolzano or Innsbruck

Whichever one is more convenient, as they're a bit similar. Personally, I like Innsbruck.

Paul

Yes, whichever is more convenient. For myself, Bolzano remains a bit more unexplored, so I might opt for it next time I have to choose. Do you have literally one night or do you have daytime hours to explore as well? Are you taking the train or driving? If taking the train, the station in Bolzano is a bit closer to the center than Innsbruck's station is to the old city section which is where I have always stayed. Would you arrive in one earlier than the other, giving you more day time to explore?

My preferences are purely personal and somewhat influenced by season. Innsbruck for QiGong in the park in summer or easily accessible Almabtrieb events in autumn. Innsbruck is also good for a peek in the Swarovski store in the city and also close to Hall im Tirol (another option). Bolzano has a funicular right near the center of town for winter or summer walking. It also has a nice hotel with pool in the center for warm summers - it was very warm last time I was there. I have not yet seen Ötzi and would like to revisit the church with the beautiful roof in the center of Bolzano. My impression is that Innsbruck is a bit more on the beaten tourist path and receives bus groups attracted to Swarovski. My experience with both is limited to one or two night stays, so not extensive.

In the absence of either calling out to you, perhaps deciding on practicalities might be the way to go. Cheers.

Bolzano would be my preference as I really liked it with little other than Ötzi and a nice vibe. Innsbruck falls into the no need to return category.

I vote Bolzano too.. we loved visiting Otzi the Iceman.. and the town is a pretty stop over..

Thank you all for your input. I appreciate it.

Hi,

Given that choice of deciding which of the two for one night, I would pick Bolzen (Bolzano) over Innsbruck.

It is sunnier in Bozen and the food and wine will be better. It is a little unexplored, and a little smaller. Südtirol is rather nice, but my train to/from Brenner is never on time! Also, Brixen is nice, about 30km north of Bozen, and fairly quiet unless youre there for the christmas market. For vacationing I think Südtirol is more expensive than Innsburck, generally. That being said, you can have a wonderful day in Innsbruck too!