Bolzano or Bressanone or Brennero or Innsbruck?
 

Am looking for opinions/insights/information on a 1 night stop between Venice and the Bodensee (Lake Constance). I'd probably arrive early to mid-afternoon on the train from Venice, and am looking for a town where I could walk around for a couple hours, have a nice dinner, stay in a small hotel within walking distance of the train station, and then take the train the next day to either Lindau, Meersburg, or Konstanz. Also, has anyone done any bicyling around the Bodensee? Would love some help with the planning for this portion of a May 2006 trip.

Meran will be your best choice. Not inexpensive, but well worth it. And please the names are BRIXEN and BRENNER!

Trav - Of the places you list, my choice would be Bolzano. Very pleasant Tyrolean city where you can also visit the fascinating Ice Man museum.

Merano is off on a cul-de-sac line which would add an hour to your journey, so may not be so convenient.

Hope this helps ...

Steve

Thank you logos and Steve. I'll research both places. And I think I'll repost my question about the Bodensee on a new thread.

Meran is a world famous resort, Bozen is just another town. Its well worth a detour.