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While champagne corks are popping elsewhere, in Bolzano Ran: At the BOclassic, At the international New Year’s Eve Run on December 31, some of the world’s fastest runners sprint through the festively decorated Old Town—right through the Christmas market and across Waltherplatz. Thousands line the route to celebrate the end of the year. This guide shows you how this traditional race unfolds—and how you can combine it with a festive weekend in Bolzano.
BOclassic at a Glance
- What: International New Year's Eve Run in Bolzano – A World-Class Road Race to Ring in the New Year
- Where: Bolzano (South Tyrol), start and finish at Waltherplatz in the Old Town
- When: on each December 31 (Elite races traditionally start at 3 p.m.)
- Distances: Elite Women's 5 km, Elite Men's 10 km; plus a fun run, youth race, and just-for-fun race
- Recommended length of stay: 2–3 days (over New Year's Eve)
- Nearest airport: Bolzano ~5 km; Innsbruck/Verona ~1.5–2 hours each.
- Your advantage: A free elite sports spectacle set against a Christmas backdrop
- Insider tip: Find a spot on Laubengasse or at Waltherplatz—the runners pass by there several times per lap
Why is the BOclassic worth it?
It’s a unique sight: While the scent of mulled wine still lingers over the stalls of the Christmas market, the world’s best track and road runners race at breakneck speed through the Arbors, the historic arcades of the Old Town. The BOclassic is one of the most prestigious New Year's Eve races of all, transforming Bolzano into an open-air arena every year on the last day of the year.
What makes it so appealing: Unlike a marathon, here you experience elite athletics in a compact, intense format—on a short loop where the athletes repeatedly race right past you. In between, amateur runners, families, and people in costumes join in the fun run and just-for-fun race. Sports and a festival come together.
For travelers, December 31 in Bolzano is a real treat: a festive Old Town, a Christmas market, South Tyrolean cuisine, and, to top it all off, world-class sports. Here’s how the race works and how to plan your day—including tips for everyone South Tyrol – you're reading right now.
How does the BOclassic work?
The race has a clear structure that builds in intensity throughout the afternoon. Here are the key elements you should know:
The Competition Divisions
The competition will be held in several categories: the Just-for-Fun Run non-competitive events, the fun run, the Youth Cup, and finally the Elite Races. So there's something for everyone, from elite athletes to recreational runners.
The Tour of the Old Town
The course measures precisely 1,250 meters and leads right through the Christmas market, past the fruit market, through the famous Laubengasse and past Town Hall Square and Train Station Square. The elite women run four laps (5 km), and the men run eight (10 km).
The Elite Races as the Highlight
The elite races begin around 3 p.m., often featuring a field of world-class competitors. The narrow, fast course sets the stage for thrilling duels—personal bests and world-class results are not uncommon here.
A Tradition Since 1974
The BOclassic has been held since 1974 and has become one of Europe's most prestigious end-of-year races—a fixture on the international running calendar.
Insider tip: If you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere, check out the youth and fun runs in the early afternoon—that’s when the mood is more laid-back, and you’ll have no trouble finding a good spot along the course.
How do you get to Bolzano?
Bolzano is the gateway to South Tyrol and very easy to reach. By Train You’ll arrive right at Bolzano Central Station on the Brenner Line (Munich–Verona), just a few minutes’ walk from Waltherplatz and the race course. What’s the best way to get there? On New Year’s Eve, definitely by train—parking is limited and parts of the Old Town are closed off.
With the Car You can reach Bolzano via the A22 Brenner Highway. The nearest major Airports These include Innsbruck, Verona, and Bergamo (each about 1.5–2 hours away); the small Bolzano Airport is located right outside the city.
Where is the best place to park in Bolzano?
On race day, the Old Town area surrounding the course will be closed to traffic. Use the central parking garages (such as the one at the train station or under Waltherplatz) and expect them to be very full. The most stress-free option is to leave your car at your lodging and walk.
Discover Bolzano – the City Centered Around Running
Bolzano combines Alpine and Mediterranean charm like no other city. At its heart is the Waltherplatz with its Gothic cathedral—the setting for the race and the Bolzano Christmas Market. Due to the Arbors, the medieval arcaded street, is lined with shops and cafés.
This is a must-see South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology with „Ötzi,“ the famous Iceman. If you want to go up high, take one of the cable cars to Ritten or Salten—sunny terraces with views of the Dolomites. The fruit market, with its stalls, is also worth a stroll.
During the holiday season, the BOclassic pairs perfectly with the Advent in Bolzano and combine it with excursions into the wintry countryside. This turns the New Year's Eve Run into a well-rounded South Tyrol weekend to ring in the new year.
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Where's the best place to stay in Bolzano?
Bolzano is a popular destination over New Year's Eve—if you want to experience the BOclassic and the Christmas market, you should book early and as close to the city center as possible. These six hotels cater to a variety of needs:
- Castel Hörtenberg – in the city center, 5 stars · €€€€ · Luxury hotel with a spa and pool near the Lauben
- Parkhotel Laurin – Centrally located with its own park, 4 stars · €€€ · historic grand hotel
- Hotel Greif – right on Waltherplatz · €€€ · elegant designer boutique hotel
- Magdalener Hof Hotel – on the outskirts of town, 4 stars · €€ · with a restaurant and parking
- Villa Jasmine – on the edge of the Old Town · €€ · a quiet boutique hotel with balconies
- Hotel Feichter – in the city center · € · a simple, friendly city hotel
Want to compare the location of the hotels directly or see more options? Here is an interactive map with live availability and price comparison:
Top Accommodations in and Around Bolzano
Where's the best place to eat in Bolzano?
South Tyrolean cuisine combines hearty Alpine fare with Italian finesse. Try Schlutzkrapfen, bacon dumplings and Tirtlan, accompanied by a glass of Lagrein or Vernatsch, and apple strudel to finish. These three restaurants represent three price ranges:
- Haselburg Restaurant – in the castle overlooking the city · €€€ · classic-modern cuisine with a panoramic view
- Vögele Tavern – In the Arbour · €€ · Historic inn (since 1277) serving South Tyrolean classics
- Hops & Co. – in the Old Town · € · a quaint local brewery serving hearty food
Restaurant and hotel recommendations are based on current reviews and market research (as of June 2026). Prices, hours, and availability are subject to change—please check the current situation before your visit.
When is the best time to visit Bolzano?
The BOclassic falls on the December 31 – right in the middle of the festive Advent season, when Bolzano is especially festive with its Christmas market and twinkling lights. For this atmosphere, you’ll gladly put up with the cold and crowded streets; warm clothing is a must.
In general, Bolzano is a year-round destination: In the Spring the orchards all around are in bloom, the Autumn It attracts visitors with its Törggelen festivities and grape harvest, and in the summer, the town serves as a starting point for hikes in the Dolomites. If you're looking for snow and a festive atmosphere, December is the perfect time to visit.
What You Should Know About the BOclassic
To make sure your New Year's Eve in Bolzano goes smoothly, here are some honest tips:
- Dress warmly. It's cold in Bolzano at the end of December; you'll be standing along the route for a long time, so be sure to pack a hat, gloves, and sturdy shoes.
- Secure your spot early. The best spots on Laubengasse and Waltherplatz fill up fast—be sure to arrive early.
- New Year's Eve is peak season. Accommodations are booked up early around the New Year and are more expensive—be sure to book well in advance.
- Old Town closed. There is a driving ban in the area around the course; please take the train or leave your car at your lodging.
- Important: Start times and the program may vary slightly from year to year—check them on the official event website shortly before the event.
Mulled wine, world-class events, and New Year's Eve: Is the BOclassic worth it?
Yes—especially if you want to combine sports, a festive atmosphere, and alpine charm. Hardly any other New Year’s Eve offers world-class sports right against a Christmas backdrop, along with mulled wine, dumplings, and South Tyrol’s most beautiful old town. Who might not enjoy it as much? Anyone looking for warmth and tranquility—it’s cold and crowded in late December. But for those who enjoy that, it’s an unforgettable way to end the year: first cheer on the runners, then stroll through the Christmas market, and finally toast the New Year in a cozy parlor. That’s what makes the BOclassic the perfect start to a few days in South Tyrol.
Map: Bolzano, South Tyrol
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions About BOclassic
Advent in Bolzano: Events, Lights, and the New Year's Eve Run
Light show at Rathausplatz, Solidarity Market at Kornplatz, St. Nicholas and Krampus on December 6, and the BOclassic New Year’s Eve Run: the program alongside the Bolzano Christmas Market.
Experiences & sights
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