When winter arrives and the Dolomites are covered in white, Trentino transforms into a magical destination capable of winning over every type of traveler: from snow lovers and winter sports enthusiasts to those seeking a regenerating break in the peace of the mountain landscapes. It’s an authentic region, where winter invites you to slow down, breathe, and reconnect with nature.
Between snowshoe hikes in the woods, horse-drawn carriage rides, and countless amusement parks, Trentino Alto Adige is also ideal for families with children—especially during the Christmas season. Here’s everything you need to know to organize an unforgettable winter holiday among the beautiful locations of Trentino.
Where to stay?
When thinking of Trentino, one often imagines vast, desolate areas covered in snow and lacking services. The reality, however, is quite different. The entire region now enjoys a very high concentration of tourism and is well-known for its warm hospitality.
More and more accommodations are adopting responsible practices: renewable energy, organic breakfasts, natural materials, and particular attention to water and energy conservation.
Accommodation options include: eco-friendly hotels, charming mountain cabins, or cozy farm stays immersed in nature. You can choose to stay in an apartment, a romantic chalet, or in comfortable lodges—ideal for families or groups of more than four people.
These eco-friendly hotels and resorts are the perfect base for accessing nearby ski lifts and allow you to take advantage of a convenient shuttle service to move around freely while minimizing environmental impact. These structures also allow you to rent bikes and e-bikes, access heated pools and sports fields, or take part in numerous guided excursions.
What to do in Trentino in winter
As mentioned earlier, Trentino offers a wide range of recreational, sporting, and cultural activities even in the heart of winter. Here are some suggestions to make sure you don’t miss anything in this beautiful region.
Ski and snowboard resorts
For skiers, Trentino is a true paradise. There are over 800 km of snowy slopes here, equipped with modern ski lifts. Madonna di Campiglio is one of the most renowned destinations for ski lovers, but San Martino di Castrozza is also worth considering, offering breathtaking views of the Pale di San Martino.
Val di Fassa and Val di Fiemme, on the other hand, are ideal for families and beginner skiers. Here, as in many other ski areas, you can also ski at night to experience the magic of snow under the stars.
Snowshoeing and trekking
If you don’t enjoy the thrill of skiing but still want to immerse yourself in Trentino’s stunning landscapes, snowshoeing is the perfect activity. These walks on the snow are done with “ciaspole,” or snowshoes, which attach to your boots to keep you from sinking into the snow.
You can choose to go snowshoeing on your own or be accompanied by specialized alpine guides. Some of the most popular locations for this activity include the Adamello Brenta Nature Park, the Cimbrian Plateaus, and the Val di Rabbi. Walking on the snow is the slowest, quietest, and most sustainable way to discover Trentino’s snowy forests and its lesser-known corners.
Spa and wellness centers
Relaxation also plays an important role, especially after a day outdoors. The cold mountain air makes the idea of enjoying a hot chocolate inside one of Trentino’s many mountain huts extremely tempting. You can also spend a few hours in one of the region’s famous thermal centers.
Among them, the “QC Terme Dolomiti” complex in Pozza di Fassa is definitely worth considering, as well as the Comano Thermal Baths and the Levico and Vetriolo Thermal Baths.
Snow parks and baby parks
Trentino offers a huge number of adventure parks and amusement parks for children. The many facilities across the region meet the needs of families with children of all ages. There are baby parks with ski school areas and instructors, easy slopes, and play areas equipped with wooden structures.
For older children, adventure parks offer suspension bridges, adrenaline-filled zip lines, and fun activities such as balance games, archery, and mini-golf.
Trentino’s culinary tradition
Trentino’s culinary tradition is rich and deeply rooted in the Alpine territory. Here you can taste a unique mix of local farming culture with Tyrolean and Austrian influences. There are countless restaurants, mountain huts, inns, and picturesque “malghe” where you can try a selection of typical dishes with genuine and surprising flavors.
The famous “Puzzone di Moena,” known for its strong and pungent flavor, is often served with polenta or melted into a fondue. Don’t miss Trentino speck, traditional “lucanica,” or “carne salada.” Typical dishes also include irresistible canederli, served in broth or melted butter, and goulash made with local game.
You should also try the classic “Tortel di patate,” delicious crispy fritters made from grated potatoes. The selection of desserts includes apple strudel, considered the king of Trentino sweets, as well as “zelten” and “torta de fregoloti.”
The magic of Christmas markets
Especially when traveling with family, the Christmas season is the perfect moment to fully experience the magic of Trentino. Throughout the Advent period, the villages of Alto Adige transform into enchanted villages, immersed in a joyful and fairytale-like atmosphere.
The famous Christmas markets are the perfect opportunity to discover local craftsmanship, enjoy a cup of mulled wine, and soak up the true Christmas atmosphere. Among the most recommended towns to visit during this period are Trento, Lavarone, Levico Terme, as well as Arco and Rovereto.
An unforgettable experience
Spending winter in Trentino means immersing yourself in the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, great food, and romance. The region also offers activities and attractions for those interested in local culture. For example, the MUSE Museum in Trento offers a fascinating six-floor journey dedicated to science and technology.
It’s also worth planning a visit to Castel Thun and Castel Beseno. Whether you want to glide down the ski slopes, walk among snowy forests, or simply enjoy some relaxation surrounded by nature, the region is sure to offer unforgettable moments.
Cover image: San Martino di Castrozza, photo via Canva PRO
