Last Updated on June 29, 2023 by AIFS Abroad
Brixen, Italy is a quaint and charming town hidden in the Dolomites mountain range. Not far from the Austrian border, Brixen is over 1,000 years old and has unforgettable charm.
With these 10 attractions, you’ll soon discover that Brixen is one of Europe’s best kept secrets.
1. Hiking Trails
The Plose Mountain lift is only about 4 miles from Brixen and takes hikers 2,000 feet up the Plose. From there you can start either a short walk or a long hike and will breathe in once in a lifetime, panoramic views of the Dolomites.
2. Duomo di Bressanone
The Duomo di Bressanone traces its roots back to the 10th century. Remodeled to a baroque style in the 1700s, it is arguably one of Italy’s most incredible cathedrals. Plus, the Piazza Duomo is surrounded by centuries-old buildings to explore as well.
3. Capriz Cheese Factory
Only about 15 minutes from Brixen, you can sample a variety of local, handmade cheeses and see how they’re crafted at the Capriz Cheese Factory. Plus, they have plenty of wine to pair those samples with if you so desire.
4. Skiing/Snowboarding Slopes
In the winter Brixen comes alive as a true ski town. The Plose offers nearly 24 miles of ski/snowboarding slopes for all levels, promising unforgettable views throughout the ride.
5. Paragliding Tours
Paragliding tours are offered year-round as another way to catch awesome views of the valley. Paragliders get a unique perspective of the Dolomites/Alps range from a bird’s eye view.
6. Tobogganing Runs
Plose offers a variety of fun tobogganing runs in the winter. While these trails are open during the day, every Friday night (starting in January) Plose is illuminated for night toboggan runs to add an element of excitement.
7. Bishop’s Palace and Diocesan Museum
The Diocesan Museum in the Bishop’s Palace preserves precious sculptures and paintings from the Medieval, Baroque, Classical and Romantic periods. Hans Klocker, Adam Baldauf and Stefan Kessler are just a few of the famous artists whose work is displayed here.
8. Augustinian Abbey of Neustift
The distinguished Augustinian Abbey of Neustift is just outside of Brixen. Guided tours explore the Abbey’s library, the impressive baroque church, and its famous Gothic panel paintings and medieval frescoes from the 14th century.
9. Plose Looping Course
For extreme sport fanatics, Plose Mountain is home to a one of a kind looping course. Near the top station of the Plose cable car, Plose Looping is one of the highest looping courses in the world. Hop on your bike and enjoy the ride (and views) of a lifetime!
10. Brixen Christmas Market
From late November to early January, Brixen magically transforms into a real-life fairy tale village. Nestled around the Piazza Duomo, Brixen’s Christmas Market welcomes you with stands of homemade trinkets and smells of freshly baked sweets.
Find out why Brixen is a hidden gem for yourself this winter. Study abroad in Brixen, Italy with AIFS during your winter break during our J-Term session!
