One event leads to another
We went looking for all the sports-themed events which you can attend as spectator while you are on a holiday in South Tyrol. Tired of just observing? Well, then participate! Some of them offer this possibility and athletes are enthusiastically encouraged to do so.
Place your bets
Merano and environs
Where: Merano
When: April – October
Nestled against the stunning backdrop of the Tessa mountain group lies the Merano racecourse – a sprawling 40-hectare oasis with a 5 km race circuit that’s straight out of a dream. Even if you are not a seasoned race aficionado, you will not want to miss out on the social whirlwind that sweeps through here from spring to autumn, culminating in the iconic Grand Prix in October. Horse races pair up with public delights like guided tours of the track and live music. Those who want to dress to impress can wear their most imaginative hat for the occasion.
The blessing of the motorbikes
Pusteria Valley –Badia Valley
Where: Brunico
When: 01.05.2024
As the sun gets warmer, the days longer, and the Dolomite landscapes start blooming, it’s time for adventures on your bike – and that includes motorcycles, too. To inaugurate the season, the sports association of Stegona, a suburb of Brunico, hosts the traditional motorcycle blessing, attracting riders from all corners of Italy and Europe on May 1st. Vespa owners, scooter aficionados, Ducati devotees, Harley-Davidson fans, and anyone else on two wheels gathers for a hearty Bavarian breakfast with veal sausages, pretzels, and the typical sweet mustard. Then it’s off for a scenic spin around the Plan de Corones area before wrapping up with a blessing of the bikes.
Let’s go to the stadium
Bolzano and environs
Where: Bolzano
When: 10.04.2024
FC Südtirol, the only pro football club between Innsbruck and Trento, and the northernmost Series B team in Italy, doesn’t just represent a city. They act as ambassadors for an entire province: South Tyrol. On May 10th, the red and white warriors take on Palermo at Bolzano’s Druso stadium, wrapping up the 2023-2024 championship. Whether they clinch victory or not, one thing’s for sure: it will be a blast! Picture this: DJ sets kick off the party and tunes fill the air around the kiosk area. This is not just a game. It’s a festival, where everyone is invited to join the fun – whether you’re a die-hard fan or just along for the ride!
Let’s hear it for the riders
Gardena Valley – Alpe di Siusi
Where: Santa Cristina in Val Gardena
When: 21.05.2024
The iconic Giro d’Italia is back in South Tyrol on May 21st! The sixteenth stage is key: a thrilling 202 km ride that winds its way through the province before reaching the picturesque Gardena Valley. Starting from Livigno, the pro cyclists tackle the mighty Stelvio Pass, then swoop down through Venosta Valley to Merano, and on to Bolzano before reaching Ortisei. From there, the last stretch is a 2.7 km uphill battle to Monte Pana, above Santa Cristina. Time to give a rousing welcome to the pink-clad riders as they conquer the Dolomite plateau, with breathtaking views of the Sella Group and the Sassolungo.
A city run at dusk
Upper Isarco Valley
Where: Vipiteno
When: 07.06.2024
As the sun dips behind the mountains on June 8th, the vibrant square of Vipiteno springs to life, with the iconic Torre delle Dodici towering above. It’s time for the twenty-seventh edition of the city’s historic footrace. Whether you are part of a sports club or have a trusty medical certificate, you’re welcome to join the fun! From 6:30 p.m. onwards, athletes of all ages set off for the classic route through the historic centre, with distances ranging from a 300 m sprint for the little ones, to a longer 5-km run. And, of course, at the finish line, the winners can claim their well-deserved prizes.
Like in the Middle Ages
Venosta Valley
Where: Sluderno
When: 16.08. – 18.08.2024
During the famous Medieval Games of South Tyrol history comes alive on the plains stretching from Castel Coira to the ruins of Montechiaro, Castel Principe, and the Benedictine abbey of Monte Maria every August. The spectacle is for everyone, perfect for families seeking a glimpse into the past. Get ready to witness epic battles, noble knights charging on horseback, and a charming procession through the alleys of Sluderno. There is also archery, merry-go-rounds, entertainment for kids, fireworks, and a petting zoo with ponies and camels. It feels like stepping into a time machine of fun and adventure, where the past meets the present.
For a good cause
Bressanone and environs
Where: Bressanone
When: 30.08.2024
Charity and sports blend beautifully in order to extend a hand of solidarity to those in need. Enter the ‘Women’s Run Brixen’, now in its twelfth year, where runners embark on a 4 km journey through the streets of Bressanone’s historic centre. This isn’t just a race; it is a movement of women supporting women, particularly those facing violence. No bibs, no timing, and no age limits – just a sea of uniform shirts symbolising unity and compassion. The registration fee? A portion is donated to the “es geat di a un – tocca a te” (“it’s up to you”) initiative, making every step count towards a brighter tomorrow for those who need it most.
True heroes
Three Peaks –Upper Pusteria Valley
Where: San Candido
When: 07.09.2025
“The Beauty of Fatigue and the Thrill of Conquest” – that’s the motto of the vintage cycling event born in Tuscany which is now making waves worldwide, like with the Eroica Dolomiti in South Tyrol. Riders can pick betweeen 73, 95, or 118 km routes and feel like true heroes. Imagine cruising through the breathtaking Three Peaks area on bikes that are at least 30 years old, sporting classic woollen gear for that authentic vintage vibe. It is not a race, but an outing with fellow enthusiasts, soaking in the majestic Dolomite scenery and maybe even capturing a round of applause at the finish line.