Trento Italy is a charming city nestled in the Italian Alps. Its allure lies in its breathtaking landscapes, its rich history, its winding medieval streets, and timeless city squares or palazzos.
Trento, Italy is an absolute gem close to Milan, Lake Garda, and Venice. A popular spot with Italians on vacation, Trento is not really on foreigners’ radar making it an authentic travel destination.
Delve into these 17 best things to do in Trento Italy! They are all fabulous. You’re going to love discovering what to see in Trento Italy.
Where Is Trento Italy?
Trento, in northern Italy, is situated in the Adige River valley in the Trentino-Alto/Südtirol region, which borders Austria and Switzerland. This region is also known as the Alto Adige region of Italy. Trento used to be part of Austria until after World War I. The stunning Dolomite Mountain range is the backdrop for this city full of historic charm.
Best Travel Tip For The City Of Trento
If you’re staying in Trento be sure to pick up the Trentino Guest Card (TGC) which includes free travel on Trentino’s public transport network, and free entry to museums, castles (including the Buonconsiglio Castle) and other top tourist attractions. The Trentino Guest Card is free when staying overnight in hotels affiliated with the provincial tourist system. As soon as you book your stay you receive the card via email or SMS. During your stay, you can use the TGC app to access all the advantages of the card.
Alternatively, pick up a Museum Pass for 22€. This pass lasts 48 hours and includes access to all museums in Trento and Rovereto, and free local public transportation.
17 Best Things To Do In Trento Italy
1. Wander Or Flâner
You know from my Paris posts that I love to wander when I get to a new destination. It’s the “flaneuse” in me. Within minutes of setting foot in the city of Trento, I knew this well-kept Italian secret would be perfect for sauntering.
Medieval streets. Gurgling fountains. Piazzas filled with people. Frescoes decorating facades. Tiny tucked away alcoves. There’s even a castle that looms over the city. All this Italian goodness with a mountainous backdrop and church bells chiming.
2. Explore Castello del Buonconsiglio
Although not the only castle in the region, Castello del Buonconsiglio is the largest and most important. The oldest section of the castle, called Castelvecchio, was the residence of Trento’s Prince-Bishops from the 13th century to the 18th century. Today, this massive complex is a museum housing multiple exhibits honouring Trento’s history.
The Torre Aquila is the gem of the Buonconsiglio Castle. Walk with a guide along crooked floorboards and cold, narrow passageways to enter the crowning glory of the entire visit. Frescoes from the 14th century depict the Cycle of the Months. The delightful scenes tell tales of another era and my Canadian heart sings seeing that snowball fights are as old as time.
Castello del Buonconsiglio: Via Bernardo Clesio 5;
- 2024 Hours: Open daily except Mondays; 9:30 AM to 5 PM
- 2024 Entry Fee: 10€ (if you don’t have the Trentino Guest Card) and 2.50€ to enter the Torre Aquila
3. Look For Angels
Sauntering in a city like Trento, there is always a fine reward when looking skyward. My favourite angel on this northern Italy itinerary has been sighted in Verona.
But the angels in Trento, Italy are waiting to be discovered.
Have you ever wondered, when it comes to angels if they are male or female?
I say male for the last two photos. Agreed?
Keep your eyes open in Trento Italia. Angels are everywhere.
4. Find All The Neptunes
The Neptune Fountain or Fontana del Nettuno stands front and centre in the Piazza Duomo. Neptune, the god of freshwater and the sea, is the perfect representation for this fountain as in 1769 it started bringing a supply of fresh water to the city.
Keep your eyes open as Neptune makes several appearances in this beautiful Italian city.
5. Attend The Celebration Of The Trento’s Patron Saint
One of the unique things to do in Trento is attend the festival in June. Every year towards the end of June, there is a grand celebration of the patron saint of Trento. Locals worship their Patron Saint, Saint S. Vigilius, and partake in plenty of cultural events and fun activities, such as river rafting. The celebration ends every year on June 26.
6. Relax In Piazza del Duomo
Honestly, if you never made it out of Piazza del Duomo, the main square in Trento, you wouldn’t feel it was an injustice. This square, located in the historical centre of the old town, is stunning. Sit at a café and observe the colourful facades, the Neptune Fountain, the Duomo, and the intricate frescoes telling their ancient stories. The Piazza del Duomo is the perfect place for people-watching.
Be sure to admire the Basilica Duomo di S. Vigilio also known as the Duomo di Trento or the Trento Cathedral. Right in the heart of the city, the Romanesque-Gothic cathedral is well worth visiting.
Next to the Cathedral is the Tridentine Diocesan Museum (Museo Diocesano Tridentino) a cultural gem housed in the historic Palazzo Pretorio, the first bishop’s residence. This Trento museum boasts a rich collection of religious art and artefacts and stunning tapestries. From the museum, you have great views of the cathedral.
7. Ride The Funivia Trento-Sardagna
One of the most thrilling things to do in Trento is to ride the Trento-Sardagna Cable Car. Not for the faint of heart, this is one steep cable car journey. Magnificent views over Trento, the Italian Alps and the Adige River valley make the steep ride well worth it! There is a little restaurant at the top where you can buy refreshments, stop for a while and take in the great views.
2024 Dates: The Trento-Sardagna Cable Car is closed 3 months from January 2024 to the end of March 2024 for upgrading and overhaul.
2024 Hours: The Trento-Sardagna Cable Car runs from 7 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. daily. The cost is included in the Trentino Guest Card. Otherwise, purchase the 2€ fare on the cable car. Cash only.
8. Visit A Museum In Trento Italy
Visiting a museum is one of the essential things to do in Trento. The museums offer a diverse range of experiences allowing visitors to delve into Trento’s cultural heritage, military history, and scientific discoveries.
Museo Diocesano Tridentino (Tridentine Diocesan Museum): as mentioned above with its magnificent collection of religious art and artefacts and stunning tapestries. 2024 Hours: Open daily except Tuesdays; 10 AM to 1 PM and 2 PM to 6 PM
Museo Delle Scienze (MUSE): One of the most visited tourist attractions in Trento is MUSE, the Trento Science Museum. The fabulous building was designed by architect Renzo Piano. With its seven levels, interactive exhibits, and focus on natural and natural sciences, the Museo delle Scienze is not to be missed! 2024 Hours: Open daily except Mondays; 10 AM to 6 PM; Saturdays and Sundays 10 PM to 7 PM
Museo dell’Aeronautica Gianni Caproni (Caproni Aeronautical Museum): Italy’s oldest aviation museum celebrates the history of aviation. 2024 Hours: Open daily except Mondays; 10 AM to 6 PM
Museo Nazionale Storico degli Alpini (National Historic Museum of the Alpini): Located a short distance outside the city centre, this museum is dedicated to the most famous troops in the Italian army, Italy’s elite mountain warfare troops. 2024 Hours: Closed Mondays. Open Tuesday to Thursday 8;15 AM to 12; 1:15 PM to 4:15 PM; Fridays 8:15 AM to 12. This Trento museum opens on certain weekends and holidays throughout the year. Check the 2024 schedule
Castello del Buonconsiglio (Buonconsiglio Castle): 2024 Hours: Although technically not a museum, visiting the castle is like stepping into the past. Open daily except Mondays; 9:30 AM to 5 PM
9. Hike To Orrido di Ponte Alto |The Gorge Of Ponte Alto
One of the most exciting things to do in Trento Italy is to watch the wild waters of the Fersina Stream at the Orrido di Ponte Alto. Be sure to build time in to visit this deep gorge in Trento, Italy. Paved walkways lead you down into the gorge closer and closer to the waterfall until you are directly behind it. Roaring water and its cool spray accompany you on this tour!
It is only permitted to visit on a guided tour.
10. Sit By The Medieval Wall
One of the cool things to do in Trento is to stop and remember that this Italian city has been around for more than a few centuries! I love this medieval wall that was built to protect the city. Today, the stunning stone wall does not completely surround Trento. It does though pop up every now and then, just as a reminder of Trento’s long history.
11. Indulge In Trento DOC
There were endless vineyards, backdropped with stunning mountains, as the train rattled along from Verona to Trento. Look out prosecco! Here comes Trento DOC. With its perfect growing conditions, Trentino delivers when it comes to white and rosé sparkling wines. Visiting Cavit, the biggest cooperative in the area was a glimpse into the winemaking business in Trento.
Make sure you indulge in wine tastings – one of the top things to do in Trento!
12. Eat Gelato In Trento Italy
Gelato makes the journey through Italy all the much sweeter. Gelateria Cherry is the best place in Trento to indulge in gelato. I went twice! Cherry Gelato offers creative and delectable flavours such as Monalisa with mascarpone cheese!
Enjoying gelato at Cherry is one of the most delicious things to do in Trento!
13. Have A Tête à Tête With Dante
Just by the train station is Piazza Dante where a soaring statue of the famous Italian poet stands. The statue of Dante was installed when Trento was part of the Austro-Hungarian empire as a reminder of its Italian heritage. Wander around Dante Alighieri, most famous for his Divine Comedy, and ponder his words, “Beauty awakens the soul to act.”
Day Trips From Trento Italy
14. Take A Day Trip To Lake Garda
An easy day trip from Trento is to Lake Garda. The direct bus from Trento to Riva del Garda is about an hour and twenty-minute journey. The bus depot is right beside the train station and the buses leave about every three hours.
Riva del Garda is a beautiful lakeside town and Lake Garda is stunning. Windsurfers zip across the lake as ferry boats deliver passengers to towns along the shore.
Unforgettable.
15. Sip Coffee In Rovereto
If you are a coffee lover like me, one of the best things to do in Trento is take a short train ride from Trento to Rovereto. Here in Rovereto you can visit and taste Bontadi Coffee, coffee roasters that have been perfecting the process since 1790. The secrets of their technique have been passed from generation to generation. The museum is full of ancient coffee artefacts that any coffee lover would love.
Linger awhile in Rovereto. This beautiful town is worth exploring, wandering and visiting some of its museums.
16. Spend A Day At Monte Bondone
Mount Bondone, known for its scenic beauty and year-round accessibility, offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes including the Trento Valley and the Adige River. Its proximity to Trento makes it an easy getaway for a walk in the meadows or a mountain hike, a ski day, or a mountain biking adventure! The chairlift is available in the summer months. Mount Bondone is less than 30 minutes from Trento making it one of the best places for outdoor enthusiasts, locals and tourists alike
17. Photograph Lago di Toblino
Lake Toblino, just 15 km west of Trento, is a beautiful side trip. The 12th century castle, situated on the point, makes Lago di Toblino a photographer’s dream. Walk the pathway around the lake surrounded by birdsong and vineyards.
How To Get To Trento Italy
How To Get To Trento By Train
There is one direct train each day from Milan. Otherwise, you can travel from Milan to Trento with a change in Verona. There are also trains from Verona, Venice and Bergamo.
Book Your Train Ticket to Trento
Closest Airports
There is no airport in Trento. The closest airports are Milan, Bergamo, and Verona.
Book Your Flight to Trento
Road Trip
Planning a trip through the Dolomite Mountains? The gorgeous Dolomites are in the regions of Veneto, Trentino, Südtirol, and Fruili Venezia Giuila. Your best way to visit the villages and get to the trailheads will be by car. Rent your car in Italy for the best experience in the Dolomites.
Hotels In Trento Italy
In Trento, it is best to be located in or very close to the historic centre. Do you want a view of the Italian Alps or the River Adige? These hotels have the best review ratings: Hotel Villa Madruzzo, Be Place, and The Grand Hotel Trento.
Where To Eat In Trento Italy
When visiting Trento Italia, savouring the local cuisine is an absolute highlight of the visit. Here are three best restaurants in Trento. The creative flavours, presentation and service were outstanding.
- Uve e Mente Via Dietro le Mura A, 35
- Orso-Grigio Ristorante & Pizza Via degli Orti, 19,
- Ristorante al Vò Vicolo Vo, n.11
Other Fun Adventures In Trento
Given its location in the great outdoors, there are plenty of outdoorsy things to do in Trento. Why not try a river rafting trip on Val di Sole or moonlight snowboarding at Monte Bondone?
Alternatively, dining in a family’s home is an amazing thing to do! An experience that lasts a lifetime! How about a cooking demonstration in a local’s home and then dining together?
I hope you enjoy all these best things to do in Trento as much as I did.
Until next time,
More Travel Info…
Looking for an authentic Italian travel experience? Try visiting Tropea and Scilla in Calabria, southern
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Oh, this makes me want to go back to Italy! If only for the gelato 🙂
The gelato just doesn’t disappoint!
First, that pizza with the eggplant looks amazing! Second, I’ve been all over Italy except the northern regions and Trento looks fascinating. I’m in! Maybe on my next trip…
You’ll love the north. The food is outstanding and so is everything else!
Amazing Trento! As an Italian, I visited Trento only once in my life, it is not only a beautiful city but the Italian city with the best quality of life.
It doesn’t surprise me that Trento tops the list for the best quality of life in an Italian city. There is plenty to do and the people look busy as they go to work but neither hurried nor harried! I could see living in Trento!
Everything about Trento looks magical. The food, gorges, wine, and angels. I think they all look male. I think all the angels the Bible refers to are male.
I love playing the male / female angel game! And there are plenty in northern Italy to ponder!
I have never heard of Trento but now I want to go. The angel statues are beautiful and the Neptune statues and fountain are really beautiful. Funivia Trento-Sardagna looks like a great way to see the city. Thanks for the great tips.
I hadn’t heard of Trento until I went to the conference. And what a delight it was to spend some time there!
What a great list of ideas! I would love to see how many angels I could find in Trento! Of course, no doubt I would want to enjoy gelato and delicious Italian food… And as a writer, I would especially enjoy having a conversation with Dante. I can’t wait to go back to Italy!
I just loved the Dante statue. I think next time I would sit across from him with my journal and see what beautiful words arrived on the page!
I think you and I have the same idea of travel. Wander the streets of any hidden gem in Europe and see what you can find. Love this little tour of Trento – from the searching to Angels and Neptune (I love that one in the garden) to eating gelato (an absolute daily must) to dining al fresco, sampling of the region’s wine…it sounds like the perfect day. I do want to visit this area of Italy and will definitely remember this place to add it my itinerary.
If you like to wander, Trento will be just perfect for you. I would happily return and wander more!
Anywhere in Italy is always a winner. Trento with Lake Garda there, too, is a great place to be.
Yes – a quick day trip to Lake Garda was amazing.
I had not heard of Trento before finding your post. The city for which the Dolomites provide a backdrop is a most important city. I have never thought about whether angels are male or female…I agree that you must eat all the gelato possible and those frescoes!! I’m heading back to Italy in March and I can’t wait. Hopefully, I can fit in Trento because of all on your list, I highly want to boat across Lake Garda!
Lake Garda really is lovely. I was worried it would be way too touristy for my liking, but I just loved it.
I absolutely love the architecture here. I like to avoid the highly touristy areas and love discovering hidden gems like this that aren’t too far away from the main cities. I’ll definitely keep an eye out for the angles throughout the city. The food looks fantastic too!
I love keeping an eye out for angels when I travel in Italy! And yes, the food was absolutely terrific.
I love how you could do a full-fledged scavenger hunt with the angels and Neptunes! That is such a fun idea for exploring a city. And I am a firm believer that gelato should be in any Italian itinerary – always great to get a couple recommendations for the best places to go!
Wouldn’t that be a wonderful scavenger hunt! Angels and Neptune with gelato in hand! Sign me up!
Italian towns are so charming, Trento looking at your photos follows same charming path. Hope i will manage to visit soon, as we will be travelling from the south to the north of Italy
Trento is really not on everyone’s travel radar when in northern Italy. But it is so worth adding it to your itinerary.
It’s always a joy to learn about an undiscovered small town in Italy! Everything about Trento, from the frescoes to the Neptune fountains, looks totally stunning. I think I’m most impressed by those beautiful rocky cliffs near Lago Di Toblino and Lake Garda. Wow. They are just so striking!
The city of Trento and the surrounding landscapes are truly exceptional. Well worth a jaunt to Trento. It is a treasure!