For centuries, Italy has captivated travelers, from the ancient Greeks in the 9th and 8th centuries B.C. to European aristocrats on their 18th- and 19th-century Grand Tours. Now, modern tourists chase Instagram-worthy moments along the Amalfi Coast or in front of Florence’s Vivoli Gelateria with their famed affogato.
With tourism booming across Europe, many destinations have been reaching a breaking point. Cities, like Venice and Rome, have introduced hefty tourist taxes, strict short-term rental regulations and advanced ticketing requirements for popular attractions that get scooped up faster than Eras tour tickets.
Fortunately, for those passionate about wine and culture, there are still regions across Italy that have remained untouched by the excesses of mass tourism.
Alto Adige, also known as Südtirol, is one such gem. Nestled in the northernmost region of Italy, Alto Adige offers a blend of breathtaking Alpine landscapes, world-class wines and Michelin-starred dining experiences.
Historically part of the Habsburg Empire (now Austria and Hungary) until World War I, the area is a fascinating cultural crossroads where northern and southern Europe converge. Both German and Italian are official languages, and the region’s cuisine reflects this dual heritage, blending hearty Alpine traditions with Mediterranean flair. Dishes, like delicate speck and creamy polenta paired with Lagrein or Gewürztraminer, can be found at classic mountain huts and rustic eateries all throughout the region.
The City: Bolzano
Bolzano (Bozen in German) is the largest city in Alto Adige, with 17th- and 18th-century Habsburg architecture creating beautiful streets and squares, and sits
This Article was originally published on Wine Enthusiast
