Discover Trentino-South Tyrol: vacation rentals, holiday rentals, and unforgettable experiences
Nestled in the heart of northern Italy, Trentino-South Tyrol blends rugged Alpine landscapes with Italian sunshine, delicious prosecco and apple-scented air. This region is a dream for any traveler who loves active holidays, scenic views, and social escapes with friends. Whether you’re searching for a cozy ski chalet, a chic apartment with Dolomites views, or a family-friendly house near a crystal-clear lake, Trentino-South Tyrol offers a vast range of vacation rentals and holiday rentals that feel like home from home. When you’re ready to book, searchandstay.com is a great resource to find accommodations in the area, offering a curated selection of vacation rentals, holiday rentals, houses, and apartments to match every taste and budget.
What makes this region so irresistible for a solo traveler who loves holidays with friends is the seamless blend of outdoor adventures, vibrant culture, and laid-back Alpine charm. From sunrise hikes through the Dolomites to sunset wake-ups by the vineyards of Alto Adige, you’ll discover experiences that feel like a celebration of life, nature, and good company. If you’re planning a getaway that combines active days with social nightlife, you’ll find the perfect vacation rental in towns that put you right in the middle of the action.
Top destinations to base your stay
Trentino-South Tyrol is a tapestry of valleys, mountains, wine routes, and lakes. Each destination has its own vibe, making it easy to curate a multi-stop trip or a single-base adventure with ease. Here are some of the best spots for vacation rentals and flavorful local experiences:
- Bolzano/Bozen — The gateway to South Tyrol, Dalmatian-style markets, and a dynamic blend of Italian and Austrian influences. Look for stylish apartments in the historic center or modern lofts with mountain views.
- Merano/Meran — A spa-infused, garden-filled town known for thermal baths, elegant cafes, and shaded promenades. Ideal for wellness-focused getaways with friends.
- Ortisei, Santa Cristina, and Selva in Val Gardena — A Dolomites icon cluster perfect for ski holidays or summer hikes. Charming chalets and ski-in/ski-out apartments are popular choices.
- Canazei and the Val di Fassa — A lively Dolomites valley with easy access to iconic peaks like the Sassolungo. Look for central flats near cable cars for easy mountain days.
- Riva del Garda and Lake Garda fringe — For a lakeside vibe with water sports, windsurfing, and cliff diving. Great for sun-soaked days and sunset aperitifs with friends.
- Trento — A university city with castles, museums, and a bounce of energy. Excellent for cultural days and chic city stays that feel urban but relaxed.
- Lago di Ledro and surrounding valleys — Quieter, greener, and perfect for nature lovers who crave peaceful vacation rentals away from crowds.
Whether you prefer a rustic alpine lodge, a contemporary apartment with a kitchen garden, or a family-sized house with a private terrace, you’ll find the right match among the vacation rentals listed on searchandstay.com. The platform makes it easy to compare neighborhoods, check availability for your travel dates, and secure accommodations that suit a group of friends on a holiday together.
Types of accommodations you’ll love
In Trentino-South Tyrol, you’ll find a wide spectrum of options that respond to different travel styles—from solo adventures to big friend groups. When you’re hunting for a place to stay, consider what matters most: location, access to outdoor activities, and a space that feels social yet private enough for rest after a day of exploration.
with mountain views, balconies, and fully equipped kitchens—perfect for social evenings with friends and easy meal prep after a day outdoors. offering rustic charm, wood interiors, and cozy fireplaces—great for a true mountain escape and a sense of belonging in the local culture. with multiple bedrooms, gardens, and sometimes a private sauna or hot tub—ideal for groups who want shared spaces plus privacy. that connect you with local farms, offer fresh regional produce, and provide a more immersive Italian-South Tyrolean experience. with curated interiors, social lounges, and optional guided experiences—great if you want some everyday pampering mixed with adventure. near lakes like Garda or Ledro—sunrise swims, paddleboarding, and sunset walks are part of the routine here. in the Dolomites—for true powder days and effortless access to the slopes during winter.
Whatever you choose, prioritize properties that mention flexible cancellation policies, fully equipped kitchens for group meals, and easy access to public transport or car hire. Using a vacation rental platform like searchandstay.com helps you filter by bed count, price range, and amenities so you can lock in a space that fits a lively holiday with friends.
Seasonal adventures: what to do and where to go
Winter wonderland: the Dolomites and beyond
When snow coats the peaks, the Dolomites become an alpine playground. Highlights include skiing on the world-renowned routes of Val Gardena, Alta Badia, and the Sella Ronda circuit, a legendary circular ski route that connects multiple valleys with minimal lifts and maximum views. If you’re a late riser, you’ll love the long, light-filled days that offer soft powder and sun-bathed slopes.
Beyond skiing, winter activities abound: snowshoeing beneath jagged cliffs, toboggan runs that wind through pine forests, and glow-or-lit evenings in cozy refuges where you can sample warm polenta, speck, and melted fontina. For a more relaxed pace, consider a spa day in Merano or a thermal soak in nearby Bormio—perfect after an epic day on the mountain.
Summer adventures: lakes, peaks, and via ferratas
Summer in Trentino-South Tyrol is all about alpine hikes, exhilarating via ferratas, and lake-side escapades. Tre Cime di Lavaredo, the Rosengarten, and the Sella Group are among the most dramatic landscapes you’ll ever hike through. Take a cable car up to Seceda for sweeping panoramas or embark on a family-friendly hike along the paths that wind around Lake Braies, with its emerald water and pine-scented air.
For water lovers, the lakes are calling: Riva del Garda’s windsurfing and sailing scene is unmatched, while Lake Ledro offers crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming and paddleboarding. If you’re traveling with friends who want something a bit more intense, try a multi-day trek that culminates with a sunset over the Dolomites, or a mountain bike ride through the Adige valley routes.
Local experiences: food, wine, and culture
One of the most delightful parts of staying in Trentino-South Tyrol is the fusion of Italian and Tyrolean flavors. From the crisp apples of Südtirol to the smoky speck and pancetta used in rustic dishes, every bite tells a story of climate, culture, and craft. You’ll also want to explore the wine routes—Garganega, Gewürztraminer, and Lagrein wines are widely celebrated here. Consider a guided food tour that pairs mountain cheeses with local wines or a farm-to-table dinner at a rustic agriturismo where hosts share family recipes and seasonal produce.
History comes alive in towns like Bolzano and Trento, where medieval streets, castles, and museums offer insight into centuries of cross-cultural exchange. In Merano, thermal baths and ornate gardens create a refined contrast to high-altitude adventures. Festivals and markets are a highlight in summer, with stalls selling handmade crafts, local honey, and chestnut products, all perfect for a casual day of exploring with a friend group.
Practical planning tips for booking and travel
To get the most out of your trip to Trentino-South Tyrol, a little planning goes a long way. Here are practical tips to help you secure ideal vacation rentals and smooth experiences:
Northern Italy’s summer months (June–August) and winter ski season (December–March) are peak periods. If you’re traveling with friends and want mid-range prices, target late spring or early autumn when the weather is still pleasant but crowds thin out. - Transport: The region is well-connected by highways and trains. Renting a car provides maximum flexibility for group trips and day trips to villages, lakes, and high-altitude trails.
- Booking windows: For popular Dolomites properties, book several months in advance, especially if you want a ski-in/ski-out location or a house that accommodates a larger group.
- Local experiences: Look for accommodations that offer recommendations for guided hikes, private tastings, or family-friendly activities to maximize your trip with friends.
- Sustainability: Many farms and small hotels emphasize sustainable practices. If this matters to your group, filter for eco-friendly stays on searchandstay.com.
- Seasonal packing: Pack layers, insulated jackets, sun protection for high-altitude days, and comfortable footwear for rocky paths and cobblestone streets.
When you’re ready to book, searchandstay.com makes it simple to compare vacation rentals, holiday rentals, houses, and apartments in Trentino-South Tyrol. You can filter by bed count, price, neighborhood, and amenities, and you’ll often find detailed listings with guest reviews to help you pick exactly the right spot for a group of friends looking to laugh, explore, and connect with local culture.
Sample 5-day itinerary: Dolomites, towns, and lakes
Day 1: Arrive in Bolzano, check into a centrally located apartment via searchandstay.com. Spend the afternoon strolling the old town, visit the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology to see Otzi the Iceman, and enjoy a sunset aperitif along the river. Dinner in a traditional osteria with a view of the surrounding mountains.
Day 2: Day trip to the Dolomites via cable car to Ortisei or Canazei. Hike a moderate route with panoramic overlooks, followed by a late lunch at a mountain rifugio featuring polenta and speck. Return to your base for a relaxed evening with friends, perhaps with a private cooking lesson in your vacation rental.
Day 3: Drive to Lake Garda’s eastern shore for a day of sailing or windsurfing in Riva del Garda. Enjoy a lakeside picnic and a visit to a local vineyard for a guided wine tasting, finishing with gelato on the promenade at sunset.
Day 4: Explore Trento, with a morning castle visit, a stroll through the ancient center, and coffee at a café near the Cathedral. In the afternoon, explore a nearby orchard or farm, soak in a spa, or take a gentle bike ride along river paths suitable for groups.
Day 5: A final day of exploration in Merano or Bolzano, picking up last-minute regional specialties such as speck, apples, or honey. Close out your trip with a farewell dinner featuring local wines and a view of the mountains you’ve fallen in love with.
Why Trentino-South Tyrol is the perfect destination for your next group stay
This region shines for travelers who want more than a standard beach holiday. It delivers active experiences, diverse landscapes, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes groups feel instantly at ease. The blend of Alpine adventures with Italian hospitality creates social moments that are perfect for friends traveling together—whether you’re swapping hike stories over a shared plate of local cheeses, planning the next day’s mountain route, or enjoying a late-night dip in a private hot tub after a day of exploring.
For accommodation, you’ll find a broad spectrum of vacation rentals and holiday rentals, from spacious houses with multiple bedrooms to intimate apartments with all the comforts of a home away from home. When you book through searchandstay.com, you’ll gain access to carefully curated listings, up-to-date availability, and user reviews to help your group choose the best option for your style and budget.