Quick Answer
The fastest and most convenient way to get from Bolzano Airport (BZO) to Alpe di Siusi is by pre-booked taxi or private transfer, taking about 50-60 minutes and costing â¬90-â¬120. The most economical and scenic option is a combination of public bus + cable car, costing around â¬8-â¬12 per person and taking 90-120 minutes. There is no direct train to the alpine plateau; all routes require a transfer in Bolzano city center.
1. Journey Overview & How to Choose
Bolzano Airport (Airport Code: BZO) is a small regional airport serving the heart of the Dolomites. The final destination, Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Alm), is Europe's largest high-alpine meadow, located at about 1,800 meters altitude. The key challenge is the vertical ascent from the valley floor (Bolzano at 262m) to the plateau.
Your choice depends on:
- Budget: Public transport is cheap; private transfers are costly.
- Group Size: Taxis become cost-effective for groups of 3-4.
- Luggage: Large suitcases are challenging on crowded buses and cable cars.
- Time of Arrival: Public transport frequency reduces in the evening and on Sundays.
- Desired Convenience: Door-to-door service vs. a multi-leg adventure.
2. Public Transport: Bus & Cable Car (The Budget Choice)
This is the standard method for independent travelers. It involves two or three steps.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Airport to Bolzano Bus Station (Autostazione):
Take the public bus Line 10A or 10B from right outside the airport terminal. The ride to Bolzano's main bus station ("Autostazione") takes 15-20 minutes. Buses run approximately every 20-30 minutes. Check current schedules on Sii Mobilità .
- Bolzano to Siusi (Seis am Schlern):
From the Autostazione, take the bus Line 170 (direction Castelrotto/Kastelruth) to the village of Siusi (Seis). This scenic journey through the valley takes about 40-50 minutes.
- Ascend to Alpe di Siusi:
From Siusi, you have two options:
- Cable Car (Seiser Alm Bahn): The most popular. A 15-minute ride from the valley station in Siusi up to Compatsch (the main hub of Alpe di Siusi). Runs frequently (every few minutes).
- Bus Line 4: A direct bus from Siusi up to Compatsch. Less frequent but useful if the cable car is closed for maintenance.