Home Destinations 21 Best Things to do in Trento and Trentino, Italy (Lakes, Mountains & Castles)

21 Best Things to do in Trento and Trentino, Italy (Lakes, Mountains & Castles)

Stroll around turquoise lakes, explore medieval castles, or experience an adventure climb the vie ferrate

by Michele
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Best things to do in Trento Italy - Travel tips, accommodation, map
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Lying in a wide glacial valley on the Adige River in northern Italy, Trento is the capital of the region of Trentino located just south of the Dolomite Mountains. Trento is one of Italy’s lesser-known cities but is quietly famous for its intimate piazzas, medieval towers, and precious frescoes. Trento is the perfect place to base yourself as you explore the numerous lakes, mountains, and castles at its doorstep.

If you’re new to northern Italy, you’re in for a treat. This Trento city guide has something for everyone. Whether you want to take a relaxing stroll around turquoise lakes, explore medieval castles, or experience an adventure climb the vie ferrate, here 21 of the best things to do in Trento and beyond!

A Quick History of Trento

Trento has its roots right back to Roman times when they conquered the Celtic Rhaetian tribes here in the late 1st century BC. The name Trento, or Trent, is a tribute to the Celtic god of the water because of its location to the river Adige.

When the Romans came, they named their settlement Tridentum after the Roman god Neptune, god of freshwater and the sea. If you split up the word, Tri Dentum, means ‘Three Teeth’ which is also a reference to the three hills that surround the city: the Doss Trent, Sant’Agata and San Rocco. Tridentum became an important stop on the Roman road that led from Verona to Innsbruck.

Trento is perhaps most famous for being the home of the Council of Trent (1545–1563) which gave rise to the Counter-Reformation. The council’s purpose was to issue key statements and clarifications of the Church’s doctrine and teachings and issue condemnations of what it defined to be heresies committed by Protestants.

You might be in Italy, but before Trento was annexed by Italy in 1919, it was part of Austria and Austria-Hungary so there is definitely a lingering Austrian influence. Don’t be surprised if you see apple strudel on the menu or the odd beer hall.

Watch my video on the best things to do in Trento


Map of Things to do in Trento, Italy

To help you locate each of the magnificent viewpoints in Trento that I’ve included in this list, I’ve created a handy Google map you can use. Got a question? Just ask me in the comments below.

1.  Start your trip in Piazza del Duomo

Best things to do in Trento Italy - Piazza del Duomo Fountain of Neptune Best things to do in Trento Italy - View over Piazza del DuomoBest things to do in Trento Italy - Casa Cazuffi and Casa RellaAs with any Italian city or town, the heart of daily life is the piazza where the Cathedral is located, and Trento is no different. The best way to get acquainted with Trento is by visiting Piazza del Duomo, described as one of the most beautiful squares in the world.

One of the highlights here are Casa Cazuffi and Casa Rella,  two residences are beautifully decorated with frescoes. On the left facade are characters and scenes from classical mythology and on the right are themes of virtue, time, the triumph of love, Apollo and abundance.

In the centre of the square is the Fountain of Neptune. This is a copy of the original which was moved to the courtyard in Piazza Thun in 1939 due to wear and tear. The original was designed by sculptor Francesco Antonio Giongo of Lavarone between 1767 and 1769. The fountain is decorated with newts, seahorses, and various other sculptures.

Tips for visiting Piazza del Duomo

Address: Piazza del Duomo, 38122 Trento TN, Italy

2. Admire Cathedral of San Vigilio (Basilica Duomo di S. Vigilio)

Best things to do in Trento Italy - Cathedral of San Vigilio Altar Best things to do in Trento Italy - Inside Cathedral of San VigilioDominating the Piazza del Duomo is the Cathedral of San Vigilio which was built on an area which housed a pre-existing 6th-century temple dedicated to the city’s Patron Saint, Saint Vigilius. In 1212, Bishop Federico Vanga commissioned Adam of Arogno to redesign the church. Its construction continued over the following centuries by the descendants of the dʻArogno. The original plan was respected as much as possible but numerous modifications were made due to advancing construction techniques of the time. 

On the northern side of the church which overlooks the main square is the prominent and richly decorated Bishop’s Gate. The gate was so named because it was used during the Tridentine Council for processions coming from the Castello del Buonconsiglio into the Cathedral. 

Another important feature which was added at the end of the 13th century in the cathedral’s Northern transept is the rose window, called Ruota della Fortuna (Wheel of Fortune), which symbolises that ever changing fate of people from one day to the next.

The cathedral continues to be the mother church of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Trento and up until 1802 it was the seat of the Bishopric of Trent. 

Tips for visiting Cathedral of San Vigilio

Address: Piazza del Duomo, 38122 Trento TN, Italy
Opening times: Daily 06.30-12.00 / 14.30-20.00
Admission: Free

Visit the official Cathedral of San Vigilio website for more details

3. Explore the Tridentine Diocesan Museum (Museo Diocesano)

Best things to do in Trento Italy - Council of Trent painting inside Diocesano Museum

Council of Trent

Best things to do in Trento Italy - Diocesano Museum exhibit Adjoining the Duomo is the Tridentine Diocesan Museum, housed in what were the halls of Palazzo Pretorio, the first episcopal residence erected next to the Cathedral of San Vigilio. The museum located here today was built in 1903 with the specific purpose of preserving the Diocese of Trent’s sacred art heritage and to be an educational resource for studying priests.

Here you’ll find exhibits originating from the churches of the Trentino area ranging from the 11th to the 19th century. From within the museum you also get a unique elevated view into the nearby cathedral.

Tips for visiting Tridentine Diocesan Museum

Address: Piazza del Duomo, 18, 38122 Trento TN, Italy

Opening times: 
June – September

  • Wednesday – Monday: 10.00-13.00 / 14.00-18.00
  • Tuesday: Closed

October – May

  • Monday, Wednesday – Saturday: 9.30-12.30 / 14.00-17.30
  • Sunday: 10.00-13.00 / 14.00-18.00

Closed

  • Jan. 1, 6, Easter, Jun. 26, Nov. 1, Dec. 25

Admission:

Visit the official Tridentine Diocesan Museum website for more details

4. See the waterfalls at Ponte Alto Gorge (Orrido di Ponte Alto)

Best things to do in Trento Italy - Orrido Ponte Alto waterfall 03 Best things to do in Trento Italy - Orrido Ponte Alto behind waterfallIt’s not everyday you’ll find a waterfall in the centre of town, but guess what, Trento does! The Ponte Alto Ravine is a true feat of engineering built to protect the city from the forceful current of the River Fersina. Originating some 30 kilometres away, over the years River Fersina has threatened and damaged parts of the city of Trento with the tonnes of debris it picks up and carries with it downstream. The force is so strong that over thousands of years it has carved a huge deep canyon that you can now visit.

Since the 1500s, various attempts have been made to slow down the river to protect the city from flooding but the force ripped the structure apart. In the 1980s the area was closed for safety reasons but refurbishment done in 2015 has led to the reopening of this very popular tourist attraction.

What you’ll see are two magnificent 40 metre high waterfalls which carve their way through red rock. Visitors are accompanied along a trail which passes alongside both waterfalls and via a narrow spiral staircase where you can go behind the lower waterfall.⁣

Tips for visiting Ponte Alto Gorge

  • For safety reasons, the gorge can only be visited as part of a guided tour. 
  • On certain dates, there are theatrical guided tours. You can find additional information on the Orrido di Ponte Alto website.
  • No advance booking required. I recommend arriving 30 minutes prior to the tour time to avoid disappointment
  • Maximum number of 25 people per group.
  • Group tours are available at other times and on weekdays as well by reservation only.
  • Wear comfortable non-slip shoes, especially important when you go behind the waterfall..

Address: Via alla Cascata, 38121 Trento TN, Italy

Opening times: 

  • Monday – Friday: Closed
  • Saturday – Sunday: 10:00 – 18:00
  • Tours run: 10:00 – 11:00 – 12:00 – 13:00 – 14:00 – 15:00 – 16:00 – 17:00 – 18:00.

Admission:

How to get to Ponte Alto Gorge

Ponte Alto Gorge can be reached by the extra-urban bus line from Trento and Pergine or vice-versa. Otherwise you can reach the hamlet of Cognola, near Trento, with the urban bus lines, and then walk the rest of the way (about 10 minutes). If you come by car, you can park at the Cognola sports complex in Via Ponte Alto. Compare the best car rental prices here.

Visit the official Ponte Alto Gorge website for more details

5. Get lost in Buonconsiglio Castle (Castello del Buonconsiglio)

Best things to do in Trento Italy - Castle Buonconsiglio Best things to do in Trento Italy - Castle Buonconsiglio garden Best things to do in Trento Italy - Castle Buonconsiglio gardens view Best things to do in Trento Italy - Castle Buonconsiglio courtyard Best things to do in Trento Italy - Castle Buonconsiglio Frescoes above staircaseLocated in the city centre is the Buonconsiglio Castle, the largest and most important monumental complex of the Trentino Alto Adige region. From the 13th century to the end of the 18th century it was the residence of the prince-bishops of Trento. The castle is made up of a series of buildings from different eras. The older section, called Castelvecchio, includes Torre Aquila, with the frescoes of the Cycle of the Months. This fresco is considered a masterpiece of Gothic art which portrays the court and peasant life at the end of the 14th century.

Today, the castle is home to the Provincial Museum of Art where various exhibitions are hosted throughout the year. Thanks to the elevated position of the castle, there are lovely views over the city from the terrace.

After visiting the museum, wander around the pretty garden and grab an Aperol Spritz in the small cafe and relax al fresco.

Tips for visiting Buonconsiglio Castle

Address: Via Bernardo Clesio, 5, 38122 Trento TN, Italy

Opening times: 

  • May – November
    • Tuesday – Sunday: 10:00 –  18:00
    • Monday: Closed
  • December
    • Tuesday – Sunday: 9:30 –  17:00
    • Monday: Closed
    • Dec. 25: Closed

Admission:

  • Full 10,00 €  
  • Over 65: 8,00 €
  • 15 to 26 years old: 6,00 €
  • Guided tours: 3,00 €
  • Under 6 years: Free
  • Free with the Trentino Guest Card
  • Every first Sunday of the month from October to March: Free
  • Last admission to the museum is 30 minutes before closing time.

Visit the official Buonconsiglio Castle website for more details

6. Relax in Piazza di Fiera 

Best things to do in Trento Italy - Piazza Fiera city wall Best things to do in Trento Italy - Piazza Fiera TowerPiazza Fiera, or Fair Square, has its roots way back to ancient times when it hosted an animal market and in more recent years, town fairs. The large quadrangular square is bordered by the Archbishop’s Palace, the offices of the Curia and the Tridentine diocesan Archive. To the north is part of the Vanghian Walls and to the west by the Madruzziano Tower.

At night, this is a popular hangout among locals who come to the various bars here spilling clientele out onto the piazza. If you’re coming here for a drink, bars close as late at 2AM.

Address: 38122 Trento, Province of Trento, Italy

7. Explore the Science Museum (Museo delle Scienze aka MUSE)

Best things to do in Trento Italy - MUSE museum building Renzo Piano Best things to do in Trento Italy - MUSE museum exhibitItalian star architect Renzo Piano most famous for designing Centre Georges Pompidou in Paris and  The Shard in London, designed Trento’s MUSE museum. MUSE is one of the most important museums of natural science in Europe and one of the best things to do in Trento.

All visitors are sent to the top floor to begin their experience. Starting at the large rooftop terrace, you slowly work your way down each of the 6 floors which serves as a metaphor of the mountain. At each floor or “altitude”, you meet and discover various species of wildlife that survive at that altitude on Earth.

The first section explores the first Alpine dwellers, the history of the Dolomites and nature of the Alps and continues all the way down to the lower ground where there is a whale skeleton and dinosaur bone exhibits.

Tips for visiting MUSE

Address: Corso del Lavoro e della Scienza, 3, 38122 Trento TN, Italy

Opening times: 

  • Monday: Closed
  • Tuesday – Friday: 10:00 – 18:00
  • Saturday – Sunday: 10:00 – 19:00

Admission:

  • Full 10,00 €  
  • Reduced: 8,00 €
  • Guided tours: 3,00 €

Visit the official MUSE website for more details

8. Drink a Hugo

When in Trento, drink Hugo. This refreshing alcoholic aperitif, originates in South Tyrol, but is widespread in Triveneto, Austria, Switzerland and Germany). If Aperol Spritz is too bitter for you, then a Huge will hit your sweet spot perfectly. It’s made up of prosecco, elderflower syrup (or lemon balm syrup), soda water, and mint leaves. Delizioso! 

From 18:00 – 20:00 head to any to any bar to enjoy a Hugo. If you’re looking for bar with a university atmosphere, head to Uva & Menta or Plan for a more elegant setting.

9. Take the Cable Car to Sardagna (Panorama Busa Degli Orsi)

Best things to do in Trento Italy - Panorama Busa Degli Orsi in Sardagna Cable car Best things to do in Trento Italy - Panorama Busa Degli Orsi in Sardagna Best things to do in Trento Italy - Cathedral of San Vigilio from Panorama Busa Degli Orsi in SardagnaOne of the best ways to see Trento is from above, of course! For the best views in the city take the cable car up the slopes of Monte Bondone and in under 4 minutes you’ll be whisked 400 metre up for see these incredible panoramic views over the city, valley and Adige River. Top tip: Head here for sunset and order a Hugo from the bar. It’s pure magic!

Starting in Autumn, the steel platform hosts musical and theatrical performances. If you get the chance, definitely make sure you see a show. 

Fun fact: The lookout gets its name Busa Degli Orsi (Bear’s cage) because up until the 1980s a family of bears were housed in the concrete “busa” or cage.

Tips for visiting Panorama Busa Degli Orsi

Address: Pick up the cable car from Funivia-Stazione di Valle-Trento located on Lungadige Monte Grappa opposite San Lorenzo bridge.

Opening times: 

  • Open daily: 7:00 – 10:30
  • Check cable times here
  • On windy days the service is suspended and replaced by Trentino Trasporti buses.

Admission:

Visit the official Trentino website for more details

10. Hunt out Torre Tromba and Torre Verde

Best things to do in Trento Italy - Torre Tromba Tower

Torre Tromba

Strategically dotted around Trento’s city centre are numerous medieval towers that date back as far as the 12th century. A nice way to get to know Trento is by hunting out these towers which has stood the test of time.

Torre Tromba was built in the 12th century by the Buonmartino family who had a building adjacent to the tower built at the beginning of the 13th century. Literally, “Trumpet Tower” this name was only given to the tower in 1683. From the end of the XVIII century until about 1860 it was used as a prison. Unfortunately, it is closed to visitors but the street its located on has lovely colourful buildings and is just around the corner from the Duomo.

Address: Via Camillo Cavour, 38122 Trento TN, Italy

Best things to do in Trento Italy - Torre Verde

Torre Verde

Torre Verde, literally “Green Tower”, is located in what was the north-eastern corner of the old city walls. Originally it stood on the banks of the Adige until 1858, until the river rectification was completed, making it an important post  that guarded the northern border. This tower is also closed to visitors but remains an important and symbolic monument in Trento.

Address: Via Alessandro Manzoni, 47, 38122 Trento TN, Italy

11. Visit Torre Vanga

Best things to do in Trento Italy - Torre VangaOne tower that you can visit is Torre Vanga, literally “Spade Tower”, this Medieval tower was the Western bastion of the city’s walls. Prince-Bishop Federico Vanga had this tower built over a pre-existing fortification during the first years of his bishopric. Originally, there was a sheltered wooden bridge that connected the tower to the opposite side of the river, where the isolated Abbey of San Lorenzo stood. 

During the revolt of 1407, the Prince-Bishop Giorgio Liechtenstein was imprisoned in the tower and the building continued to serve as a prison in the following centuries. Today, it is the seat of expositions of Mart Museum and the Superintendence for historical and artistic heritage of Trento.

Tips for visiting Torre Vanga

Address: On the corner of Via Torre Vanga and Via della Prepositura, 38122 Trento TN, Italy

Opening times: 

  • Monday: Closed
  • Tuesday – Sunday: 9:00 – 12:00 /  13:00 – 16:00

Admission:

  • Free

12. See Dante at Piazza Dante 

Named after the father of the Italian language, Dante Alighieri, Piazza Dante is a large public garden in front of the station. There is a small pond populated by ducklings and a large monument dedicated to Dante as part of an initiative which celebrates well-known personalities throughout Italy’s history. Piazza Dante is a nice spot to sit and wait for your train or relax under a shaded park bench during summer.

Address: Piazza Dante, 38122 Trento TN, Italy

13. Wander around the Cesare Battisti Mausoleum

Best things to do in Trento Italy - Doss TrentoBest things to do in Trento Italy - Cesare Battisti MausoleumBorn in Trento in 1875, Cesare Battisti was a scholar, journalist, and politician who dedicated his life to the social and cultural development of his homeland who fought passionately for the unification of his Trentino homeland with the Kingdom of Italy.

In 1911 Battisti was elected to the Vienna Assembly (parliament) but after the war outbreak between Austria and Serbia, he fled to Italy where he campaigned for the war entry of the young kingdom on the Entente side. On the 23rd of May 1915, when Italy entered the war, Battisti joined as a volunteer but in 1916 he was captured executed by the Austrian forces.

His death caused an immediate urge to commemorate him and by 1922 a law was ordered for the erection of a national monument to be built in Trento was confirmed. Located atop Doss Trento, Cesare Battisti’s mausoleum was finally inaugurated on 26 May, 1935 in the presence of King Vittorio Emanuelle II 

Sixteen columns reach over 10 metres tall which, joined on top by an entablature, creating a circular crown that envelops the altar at its centre where a large commemorative tombstone sits.

Tips for visiting Cesare Battisti Mausoleum

Address: Via Dòs Trento, 38122 Trento TN, Italy

Opening times: 

  • Open daily: 9:00 – 19:00

Admission:

  • Free

How to get to Cesare Battisti Mausoleum

Unless you drive, the quickest way to the top on foot but don’t follow the directions on Google Maps. Located on the corner of Via Papiria and Via Brescia there is a street sign leading to Doss Trento via a somewhat hidden staircase. 

14. Join the Trento city history walking tour

Best things to do in Trento Italy - Piazza di Piedicastello Best things to do in Trento Italy - Pretty architectureMy favourite thing to do when I visit a new city is to join a walking tour. This 2-hour Trento walking tour is the perfect way to explore the region’s capital. You’ll wanded through many of the places mentioned in this guide to the best things to do in Trento, but the best part is that you’ll have a guide who will bring it all to life for you and through in even more local knowledge. Check tours prices and availability here. 

15. Visit the Pyramids of Segonzano

Best things to do in Trento Italy - Pyramids of Segonzano valley view Best things to do in Trento Italy - Pyramids of Segonzano drone Best things to do in Trento Italy - Pyramids of Segonzano - SunsetThey may not look like the Pyramids of Egypt, but the Pyramids of Segonzano are one of the most well known and studied geological phenomena in the world! These strange looking pinnacles rising 20 meters high from the ground are the remains of a moraine deposit dating back to the last ice age some 50 thousand years ago!

The pyramids are located in a large park open to visitors who can follow get a closer look at the “pyramids” via three well-marked trail. Each trail connects to the next and leads you to a unique panoramic viewpoint with elevated views over the pinnacles and mountain valley. 

Tips for visiting Pyramids of Segonzano

  • Wear comfortable walking shoes
  • The trails are considered to be easy and consist of wooden and rock staircases and normal dirt terrain.
  • It took me just under 30 minutes to reach the end of trail 2. So I would allow a good 2-3 hrs to visit all three.

Address: Frazione Scancio, 25, 38047 Segonzano TN, Italy.

Opening times: 

  • Open daily: 25 April – 1 May / 1 June – 30 September 30th
  • Saturday, Sunday and midweek holidays: 2 May – 31 May / October  
  • Monday – Tuesday: 9:00 – 13:00 / 13:30 -17:30 
  • Wednesday –  Friday: 9:00 – 17:00 
  • Saturday – Sunday: 9:00 – 13:00 / 13:30 – 17:30

Admission:

How to get to the Pyramids of Segonzano

The best way to reach the Pyramids of Segonzano is to do what I did and rent a car here. From Trento, it’s just a 30-minute drive northeast of the city. Head towards Fersina valley towards Civezzano-Cavalese and at the junction of Pergine, turn in the direction of Civezzano and follow directions to Segonzano. Compare the best car rental prices here.

Visit the official tourism board website for more details

16. Admire the blue waters of Lake Toblino (Lago di Toblino)

Best things to do in Trento Italy - Lago di Toblino Lake Best things to do in Trento Italy - Lake ToblinoWhile you still have your rental car, drive 20 minutes west for one of the most romantic lakes in Trentino. Reaching out into the pristine blue lake is a sixteenth century fortress with harmonious Renaissance fortress where you can also dine in the castle restaurant. The best way to explore this area if by walking along the boardwalk which leads around the lake. 

Lake Toblino is and its surrounding area has been declared a biotope for both botanical and ethological interests, and is protected by the Autonomous Province of Trento so please be respectful and take any rubbish/trash with you.

Tips for visiting Lake Toblino

Address: Località Castel Toblino, 1, 38072 Calavino TN, Italy

Restaurant Opening times: 

  • Open daily: 12:00 – 14.30 /  19:00 – 22:00

How to get to Lake Toblino

  • By Bus – From Trento station, take bus B201 or B205 and get off at Due Laghi-Hotel Miralaghi. From here it’s just a 16 minute walk to the castle. The journey will take just under 50 minutes
  • By Car – With your car rental, head out of the city on Via Brescia then take route SS45bis all the way to the castle. 

17. Riva del Garda on Lake Garda

Best things to do in Trento Italy - Riva del Garda - Rocca di Riva castle Best things to do in Trento Italy - Riva del Garda promenade Best things to do in Trento Italy - Riva del Garda Lake and treesContinuing south on route SS45bis for another 30 minutes will take you to the northern tip of Italy’s largest lake, Lake Garda. Just like any town located on the lake, Riva del Garda is incredibly beautiful and features a lovely promenade decorated with blossoming flowers.  Nicknamed “the jewel of Lake Garda”, Riva del Garda has famous for its numerous lemon trees and palm trees.

The town is popular among windsurfers and sailors but it also a great sport for culture junkies like me. In the centre are historical palazzi which dates back to when the Venetians reigned here. There is also the “Rocca di Riva” castle which dates back to 1124 and is completely surrounded by water. Today, it houses the urban museum and a picture gallery called “pinacoteca”.

How to get to Riva del Garda

  • By Bus – From Trento station, take bus B205 or B301 and get off at Riva del Garda station. The journey time is 1 hour and 26 minutes.
  • By Train – For quicky commute, take a train to Rovereto then change for a the B332 bus to Riva del Garda station. The journey time is 1 hour and 3 minutes.
  • By Car – Head out of the city on Via Brescia then take route SS45bis all the way to Riva del Garda. The total journey time is 45 minutes. Compare the best car rental prices here

18. Go on a hike

Trentino is full of beautiful landscapes that can easily be explored on foot. There are too many to hikes to name here, but the Trentino tourism board has an excellent map you can use to choose the difficulty, duration, and location of the hike you’d like to do. Plan your hike with this detailed map.

19. Visit the Great Dolomites Road

Best things to do in Trento Italy - Visit the Dolomites - Lake di Braies

Lake di Braies (Lago di Braies)

Trento has long been the gateway to the Dolomites, but if you don’t have much time in the region in-depth you can still get a taste of Italy’s famous dramatic rocky rooftop. See the immense beauty of the Dolomites by taking this private tour along the very scenic Great Dolomites Road. Known as the Grande Strada della Dolomiti in Italian, the road connects Bolzano and Cortina d’Ampezzo. There a plenty of stops on this day tour from Trento which includes optional activities such as walking around a lake and taking a cable-car. Check availability and book your tour here

Alternative, if you want to see famous locations such as Tre Cime di Lavaredo and Lago di Braies (pictured), join this private tour full-day tour of the Easterm Dolomites.

20. Feel a rush of adrenaline on Via Ferrata

If you’re feeling adventurous, then why not do a via ferrata climb. This Italian term literally means “iron path/way” and is a protected climbing route found in the Alps and various other locations.  A via ferrata route is equipped with steel cables, ladders, wooden walkways and suspended bridges which even the most inexperienced climbers can participate in..

Historically, many vie ferrate (plural) in the Dolomites have a military origin built with the purpose of allowing troops passage through the mountains in places which were previously inaccessible. This way they could control the warring front during such events as the war fought in the years 1915 to 1918.

There are various vie ferrate or in English via ferratas you can do, use this map to help you choose plan your own via ferrata adventure.

21. Join a Trentino cooking class

You’ve seen the mountains, lakes, museums now it’s time to taste Trento’s cuisine. Learn how to prepare regional dishes alongside Le Cesarine, Italy’s oldest network of home cooks. Join this private cooking class either for lunch or dinner and discover the secrets of Trento’s cuisine. You’ll be welcomed into a real Italian home where you’ll learn how to prepare 3 local recipes from scratch. Sound good? Book your class here. Buon appetito!


How to get to Trento

By Plane

Trento doesn’t have its own airport, probably because it’s so mountainous! However, that doesn’t mean it’s not well-connected. There are various airports you can fly into. The closest is Verona and where I stayed for a few days before heading to Trento. From here it’s either an an hour drive or 1 hr 26 min fast train.

  • From Bergamo (Orio al Serio airport) – Take a regional train and Flixbus. Journey time is 2hr 40min
  • From Venice (Marco Polo Airport) – Take a regional train and Flixbus. Journey time is 2hr 25min
  • From Malpensa (Malpensa Airport) – Take a regional train and Flixbus. Journey time is 3hr 30min

By Train

Italy has an excellent train network. You can either purchase your tickets ahead of time or on the day at the station. It’s important to note that both regional and fast train services operate between most cities. The fast train network is run by Italo, you pay a bit more, you have allocated seating and there is air conditioning. Italo have their own ticket machines and ticket validation machines. 

The cheaper and slower option is the regional train service run by Trenitalia. These trains are a bit older and if you’re really unlucky, your get one without air conditioning. As always, remember to always validate your ticket before travelling.

Trento train station has regular and direct services to Verona, Innsbruck in Austria while those travelling from Milan or Venice will need to change trains in Verona. No train connections run between 11:00 and 05:00. If you are coming from Austria or Germany, check Deutsche Bahn or  OBB for the latest train timetables.

By Bus

Flixbus is a low-cost coach service which runs a regular service to various cities around Italy, Germany, and Austria. Check the latest timetable here.

By Car

You can reach Trento by car on the A22 Brennero motorway. Take the “Trento nord” exit, if you are coming from the north or “Trento sud”, if you are coming from the south. Unless you have a pass, you’ll need cash to pay for any tolls your pass through.


Getting Around

Trento is a small city which makes it very walkable. The only time you’ll need to use public transport is when you take the cable car up, catch a bus to the Ponte Alto Gorge or if you take a day trip outside of the city centre. In which card, it’s free with the Trentino Guest Card. You can check the bus timetable via Trentino Trasporti. Taxi services are also available and can be found outside the railway station facing Piazza Dante. For day trips from Trento with added flexibility, I recommend picking up a rental car here.


Where to stay in Trento

Trento has a wide selection of accommodation options from budget friendly all the way through to more luxurious hotels. Here are a few top-rated hotels to choose from. When you’re ready to book, use my special link and get 10% of your booking back. Win-win! 

Budget

Hotel Albermonaco – This is where I stayed and to be fair I lucked out and was upgraded to one of their newly refurbished rooms with a terrace so it felt more like a midrange experience hotel to me. To get similar experience, check the listings photos carefully and book a newer room directly. If you’re not sure, you can attach a message on the payment page. Each room comes with free Wi-FI and breakfast is included. Buonconsiglio Castle is a 4-minute walk away and Piazza del Duomo is another 9 minutes.

Check room rates and book your stay at Hotel Albermonaco

Midrange 

View of Castle Buonconsiglio from Hotel room

View of Castle Buonconsiglio from my room at Hotel Albermonaco

Hotel Alberomonaco Trento - Room

Grand Hotel Trento – Located just off Piazza Dante, this highly rated hotel features elegant rooms with wooden furniture, a wellness centre and sauna and the continental style breakfast is included in each room.

Check room rates and book your stay at Grand Hotel Trento

Luxury

NH Trento – For a more modern touch, NH Trento offers an eco-friendly hotel close to the MUSE museum. All rooms are air conditioned and include free WiFi,  TV and minibar and some feature views of the Alps! 

Check room rates and book your stay at NH Trento

La Villa Luxury Guest House – This beautifully and completely renovated guest house offers guess rooms for small and large groups. The rooms air conditioned, include free WIFI and TV. A free parking space is included along with a buffet breakfast. No need to leave your pooch at home, this place is pet friendly!

Check room rates and book your stay at La Villa Luxury Guest HouseW

Airbnb

For an alternative accommodation option, I would recommend renting out an apartment or room through Airbnb. Cute Airbnb options are popping up all over the town so you’ll find some really beautiful places at very affordable prices. Airbnb has numerous convenient options to choose from. If it’s your first time get US$65 OFF here or get £50 OFF your first stay here, when you sign up using my unique reader referral link.


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21 Best things to do in Trento Italy - Travel Tips, Accommodation, Map


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