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.
