Things To Do
in Laives

Laives is a charming town located in the South Tyrol region of northern Italy, known for its picturesque landscapes and cultural heritage. Nestled near the bustling city of Bolzano, Laives combines a tranquil rural atmosphere with easy access to urban amenities. The town features a mix of traditional Alpine architecture and modern developments, making it a unique destination.

Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities, local cuisine, and the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Laives
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local market, where you can sample fresh produce and artisan goods. Enjoy a traditional Italian breakfast of cappuccino and cornetto at a local café.

afternoon
:

Take a leisurely stroll through Laives' charming streets and visit the Church of St. John, known for its beautiful frescoes. Explore local shops for unique souvenirs.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional restaurant, savoring local dishes such as speck and canederli. End the night with a walk in the town square, soaking in the atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Head to the nearby vineyards for a guided tour and wine tasting, learning about the local winemaking traditions.

afternoon
:

Visit the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology in Bolzano to see the famous Ötzi the Iceman exhibit. Enjoy lunch at a nearby trattoria.

evening
:

Return to Laives and enjoy dinner at a pizzeria, followed by a visit to a local bar for a nightcap and to mingle with locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍕Pizza$10
Coffee$2.50
🥗Meal at a Restaurant$20
🍷Local Wine Bottle$15
🚌Bus Ticket$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural heritage and local cuisine.
  • Close proximity to Bolzano for urban amenities.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Some areas may have language barriers for non-Italian speakers.
  • Public transportation can be infrequent in rural areas.
  • "Buongiorno" - Good Morning
  • "Grazie" - Thank You
  • "Per favore" - Please
  • "Dove si trova...?" - Where is...?
  • "Il conto, per favore" - The bill, please

Places to Visit in Laives

Visit one of these nice places.

Laives Vineyards

Capture stunning views of the rolling vineyards against the backdrop of the Dolomites, especially during sunset.

Church of St. John

The church's beautiful frescoes and architecture make for a perfect photographic opportunity.

Piazza della Libertà

The main square is vibrant with activity and offers a great place for street photography and capturing local life.

Culinary Guide

Food in Laives

Laives offers a delightful culinary experience, highlighting the flavors of the South Tyrol region, where Italian and Austrian influences blend seamlessly.

Laives Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Speck

A traditional cured ham that is a staple of South Tyrolean cuisine, often enjoyed with bread and cheese.

Must-Try!

Canederli

These are bread dumplings typically made with stale bread, eggs, and various fillings, served in broth or with a sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Laives Market

A weekly market featuring local produce, cheeses, meats, and artisanal goods, perfect for sampling local flavors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Laives has a temperate climate with warm summers and cold winters. Average summer temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), while winter temperatures can drop to -5°C (23°F). Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with summer experiencing occasional thunderstorms. The best times to visit are spring and autumn for mild weather and beautiful scenery.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

When greeting someone, a firm handshake is common, and it's polite to address people with their titles (Mr. or Mrs.) followed by their last name.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to invite you to sit and do not start eating until everyone is served.

Dress Code

Dress modestly and smartly when dining out or attending events, as casual attire may not be appropriate.

Safety Guide

Safety

Laives is generally a safe town with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as keeping valuables secure and being cautious in crowded areas. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and it’s advisable to know the location of the nearest hospital.

Tipping in Laives

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants if service is not included in the bill.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash, especially for small purchases and at markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploring local markets.

Summer

Warm weather attracts visitors for hiking and wine tours; be prepared for occasional rain showers.

Autumn

The fall foliage transforms the landscape into a colorful spectacle, perfect for photography and enjoying seasonal harvest festivals.

Winter

Cold temperatures and snow create a picturesque winter wonderland, ideal for skiing in nearby resorts.

Nightlife Guide

Laives at Night

Laives offers a modest nightlife scene, primarily centered around local bars and cafes. Many establishments close by midnight; however, you can find a lively atmosphere in the summer months with outdoor seating and live music events. For a more vibrant nightlife experience, nearby Bolzano has clubs and late-night venues.

Hiking in Laives

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sentiero dei Beni Culturali

This trail offers a scenic route through vineyards and historical sites, perfect for a leisurely hike while learning about the region's culture.

Monte di Mezzo

A more challenging hike that rewards trekkers with breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.

Airports

How to reach Laives by plane.

Bolzano Airport

Located about 10 km from Laives, Bolzano Airport offers limited flights primarily to major cities. It's a convenient option for travelers looking to reach the region quickly.

Getting Around

Walkability

Laives is quite walkable with a compact town center that allows visitors to explore on foot. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and pedestrian areas are common, making it easy to navigate between shops, restaurants, and attractions.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The local population consists mostly of Italian speakers, with a mix of German-speaking residents due to the region's history and culture.

Tourists

Visitors from various countries come to enjoy the natural beauty and cultural offerings, especially during the summer months.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a popular sport in the region, with local teams engaging in friendly matches and competitions.

Skiing

With the nearby Dolomites, skiing is a major winter sport, attracting both locals and tourists to the slopes.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Laives is generally light, with the town being easily navigable by car and on foot. Public transportation, including buses, connects Laives to Bolzano and other nearby towns, although schedules may vary, especially on weekends.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Laives.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Laives offer vegetarian dishes, but it is advisable to ask about specific ingredients as some local dishes may contain meat.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options are becoming more common, especially in larger restaurants, but it’s best to confirm with the staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Laives is accessible, with a local clinic providing basic services. For more serious medical issues, larger hospitals are located in Bolzano, which is about 10 km away. Emergency services can be reached quickly, and pharmacies are readily available throughout the town.

Discover Italy

Read more in our Italy 2025 Travel Guide.

Italy Travel Guide