Trentino Alto-Adige, also known as South Tyrol, is Italy’s most northern region. On the border of Austria, it only became part of Italy in 1919, so there’s still much Austrian influence. In the northern part of the region many people still speak German. With its German and Austrian influence, this is a top Italian region for Christmas markets. The cuisine also reflects its Austrian influence, especially in the north. Speck, a smoked ham, comes from this region, as well as Riesling, and Traminer white wines.

Trentino Alto-Adige includes parts of both the Dolomite mountains and the Alps, making it popular for skiing and hiking. Part of  Lake Garda extends into this region, too.

A major rail line runs through the region and on to Munich, Germany, with stops in Trento, Bolzano, and Bressanone.

Trentino Alto-Adige Highlights:

* Trento, the major city in the Trentino or southern part of the region, has a castle, 14th century cathedral, and many buildings from the 15th – 16th centuries. Trento holds one of Italy’s top Christmas markets, with stalls selling crafts and decorations in traditional wooden huts.

* Madonna di Campiglio is a top ski resort in the Dolomites and is also popular in summer.

* Riva di Garda, the northern tip of Lake Garda, is in Trentino and is a popular summer resort.

* Bolzano, or Bozen, is the main city of Alto-Adige or the northern part of the region. It has an interesting historic center, a Gothic cathedral, and a castle with medieval frescoes.

* Bressanone, or Brixen, is a smaller city further north with a very strong Austrian influence and a nice medieval center.

* Merano, or Meran, is a medieval town on the Passirio River. Merano has been a popular spa town for a couple hundred years. It has a castle and walking paths along the river.

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  Photo by Volker Kannacher