Merano: facts about the city & how to get there

The city of Merano is a popular spa town in the north of Italy and in the South Tyrolean Alps. The town measures in about 40,000 inhabitants on an area of 26.34 km². Merano is located in a beautiful setting in the middle of a valley and is surrounded by mountain peaks. If you want to spend your holidays here, you can either come by car, by train or by plane. Merano itself offers a small train station and around South Tyrol you can fly to several airports.

Tip: Here you will find everything you need to know about a holiday in Italy!

Facts and figures: Where is Merano?

Merano is a city in the north of Italy in the middle of the South Tyrolean Alps, lies at an altitude of 325 meters and has about 40,000 inhabitants. The popular spa town is located near the border with Austria and can be reached in about half an hour. Merano lies in a valley surrounded by mountain peaks and south of the Texelgruppe Nature Park. The Sarntal Alps are also not far away and are located in a north-easterly direction. The next bigger city is Bolzano with a little more than 100.000 inhabitants. This is located southeast of Merano and you need about half an hour by car to reach it.

Arrival: Car, train or plane?

Merano is easy to reach and you have the option to travel by car, train or plane. If you plan to come by car, you can simply take the A22 motorway to reach your destination. Be aware, however, that there is a toll on Italian motorways. You can also reach the popular spa town quickly by train. Merano itself has a small train station. The next bigger one is in Bolzano. Also by plane the journey is not difficult. Around South Tyrol there are several airports, which you can fly to. From there you can simply look for the right train connection.

Want to see more of Italy? Read more about Tuscany here!

Where is it most beautiful? Merano, Dorf Tirol & Partschins

Around the town of Merano there are numerous beautiful places and various sights. For example, there is Merano itself. Here you will find a beautiful view as well as numerous green spaces and botanical gardens. A highlight is definitely the castle Trauttmansdorff including a beautiful castle garden with exotic plants. Another beautiful place is the village Tirol, where you can admire various hiking trails and a large cultural offer. In addition, there are more hiking trails in the village of Partschins and an impressive waterfall in the middle of the Alps.

Merano: popular health resort on the river Passer

Merano is a very popular spa town on the Passer river. Here you will find a particularly distinctive flora in the many parks and the famous botanical gardens. Especially the latter and the many watercourses make the city a popular destination in the green. The surroundings and landscape also speak for themselves in Merano. The city in the valley between the many snow-covered mountain peaks offers an impressive view in alpine-Mediterranean style. A visit to Trauttmansdorff Castle, including the breathtaking castle gardens with exotic plants, is particularly suitable as an excursion destination. For a suitable cultural offer, there are various seasonal events from spring to winter, such as the WineFestival, a music week or a Christmas festival.

Dorf Tirol: hiking trails, museums & cultural treasures

The village of Tyrol is located above the city of Merano and is especially known for many different hiking trails and viewpoints. Around the village there are numerous marked hiking trails in various levels of difficulty and altitude. On the total of 70 kilometres of hiking trails there should be something for everyone. Hike amidst beautiful mountain scenery while observing the distinctive flora and fauna in the village of Tyrol. Also for the suitable cultural offer is provided here. There are numerous museums, cultural treasures as well as castles, churches and the famous Castle Tyrol, which are worth a trip in any case.

Parcines: Waterfall in beautiful landscape

The village of Parcines is located about six kilometres from Merano, at the entrance to the Texelgruppe Nature Park. Here you will also find an impressive landscape amidst the mountain peaks. There are many different hiking trails and possibilities to spend your day and you can enjoy the beautiful view on Waal and panoramic trails. One of the highlights in Parcines is in any case the famous waterfall with a drop of 97 meters in the middle of the Alps. You can also admire it on some hiking or cycling tours.

Activities & excursions in Merano

In Merano there are numerous excursion destinations and sights, which are worth a visit in any case. Here we present two specific destinations and a few other activities in the popular spa town. Firstly, there is Trauttmansdorff Castle, where Empress Sissi once spent her holidays. This castle was renovated in the early 2000s and now serves as a tourist destination. Right next to the castle are the beautiful botanical style castle gardens. Here you can admire an extensive and impressive flora with the most exotic plants on a total of 12 hectares and 100 meters of altitude. Besides these two excursion destinations, however, there is much more to do in Merano. There are numerous hiking trails or the possibility to rent a bike. Should the weather not play along, you can go to the local thermal baths.

Trauttmansdorff Castle: former holiday residence of Empress Sissi

Trauttmansdorff Castle is located in the east of Merano and is particularly well known as the former holiday residence of the famous Empress Sissi. The building was acquired in 1846 by the eponymous Emperor Joseph von Trauttmansdorff, rebuilt in neo-Gothic style and was considered Sissi’s holiday residence from 1870. When the castle was badly damaged after the two world wars, it fell into disrepair and only came back after renovation in 2002-2003. Since then, Trauttmansdorff Castle has become a popular tourist destination in memory of Sissi and is known throughout Europe.

Botanical Gardens of Merano: highlight with extraordinary flora

The Botanical Gardens of Merano are located on the eastern outskirts of Mera and are also known as the Gardens of Trauttmansdorff Castle. The gardens are considered the highlight and attraction of the spa town and were opened around 2001. Here you can find countless plant species and an extraordinary flora on an area of 12 hectares. In addition, the gardens have a height difference of 100 meters, so that you can admire the surroundings from different levels and you are always offered new perspectives. Visit the beautiful gardens, because if you are already in Merano, it is worth a trip to this sight in any case.

Daytime activities: bike tour, climbing or thermal baths

You have now already got to know two very nice destinations. However, this is not all that you can experience in and around Merano. In the midst of an impressive and beautiful landscape you can spend some wonderful days. For example, you can go hiking in the Alps, go on a bike tour or rent a quad bike and explore the surroundings. For a bit more action you can try the via ferrata and in winter you also have the possibility to go skiing in one of the nearby ski areas. Should the weather not play along, there is also a thermal spa in Merano, to simply let your soul dangle and spend a few relaxing hours.

Accommodation: luxury hotel, holiday apartment & camping

In and around Merano there are numerous possibilities to spend the nights. Rent a holiday home, an apartment, a room in a pension or for a little more luxury a room in a wellness hotel. The offer is large and varied and there should be something for every taste and price range. For more adventure and nature feeling you also have the possibility to stay on a camping site. Find out more about the offer and the accommodation options here.

Find out everything about camping here!

Hotel, holiday apartment or chalet: suitable for everyone

Who wants to spend a holiday, first of all needs the right accommodation. In Merano there are numerous options for every requirement and in different price ranges. For example, book a holiday home, a room in an Airbnb, a pension or in a youth hostel. With these accommodation options you can save a lot of money and invest it in different activities during the day. If you prefer a little more comfort, you also have the option of staying in a chalet, a luxury hotel or a wellness hotel. Relax for a few days in the middle of the Alps and forget your everyday life.

Camping in Merano: spending the night in a unique setting

In and around Merano there are several campsites for caravans, tents or even cars with roof tents. In the middle of the Val Passiria you can ideally spend a few nights in nature and admire the beautiful view when you get up. Try something new, get the right camping equipment and go camping with your family or friends in Merano. Besides the lower costs, you will also experience a lot more and make your holiday more adventurous.

Climate: ideal location in the Passeier Valley

Merano has an ideal location, which is why the climate is very pleasant throughout the year. The city is located in the Val Passiria, in a protected position by the Alps. This means that the cold north wind cannot affect the climate in Merano and the warm air from the Mediterranean region allows the temperatures to rise. Due to this fact, one can already expect 15°C in March and even almost 25°C in May. The highest temperatures are in the months from June to August. During this time the thermometer rises to almost 30°C. However, the number of rainy days also increases during these months. On average, you can expect 9 rainy days per month, but you should know that these are mostly small showers that leave as quickly as they came.

Routes to: Venice, Lake Garda & Oberstdorf

Are you currently planning your holiday or did you get a taste for a holiday in Merano in the course of the article? No problem! Here we present you a few routes and the fastest ways to Merano. We also show you how you can extend your holiday by a few days to visit more beautiful places in the area.

Route from Merano to Venice

Venice is a beautiful city in Italy and definitely worth a holiday. So if you are in Merano right now, it would be worth considering to extend your holiday by a few days and go to Venice . The city can be reached in about 3 hours by car and can be easily reached via the A22 and the E45. However, be aware that tolls may apply on Italian motorways.

Route Merano to Lake Garda

Lake Garda is also one of the most famous lakes in Europe and a very popular destination in Italy. So if you don’t fancy a city break in Venice and would rather be by the water, a trip to Lake Garda should be planned in any case. From Merano you only need a little more than 2 hours by car. The best way to get there is to take the A22 and the E45. Possible tolls should also be taken into account for this route.

Route Merano to Oberstdorf

Oberstdorf is a famous place in Germany, which is located in the Bavarian district of Oberallgäu. Here you will find an impressive view and landscape as well as a large ski area. So if you are in Meran in summer or especially in winter and want to go skiing, a side trip to Oberstdorf would be advisable. For the route you should plan about 4 hours driving time. The easiest and fastest route is via the E45. Again, you should be aware that there may be a toll on Italian motorways.

FAQ: What you should know!

You still have some unanswered questions or want to have the most important information at a glance? We have put together a suitable FAQ especially for you, so that you can prepare yourself ideally for your trip.

Where is Merano?

The city of Merano is a popular health resort in the north of Italy and in the South Tyrolean Alps.

How to get there?

You can either travel by car, train or plane. However, be aware that tolls may apply on Italian motorways.

Where is a good place to go hiking?

Two popular places next to Merano are Dorf Tirol and Partschins. Here you can go hiking particularly well, as there are signposted routes at different heights and levels of difficulty.

What activities can you do in Merano?

• Trauttmansdorff Castle
• Botanic gardens
• Hiking
• Bike
• Rent a quad bike
• Climbing
• Ski
• Visit thermal bath

Is it possible to camp in Merano?

Yes! In and around Merano there are numerous campsites for caravans, tents or even cars with roof tents. You can spend the night in a beautiful setting and wake up surrounded by nature.

How long does it take to get from Merano to Venice?

By car it takes a little more than three hours.

When are the hottest months in Merano?

The hottest months are from June to August. During this time it can quickly be over 30°C.

South Tyrol: facts & the history of the region

The history of South Tyrol started early, everyone knows Ötzi from the ice. Ötzi is probably considered the most famous “Iceman” in history: His story takes place in 3200 BC, when the side valleys were settled. The region is not only famous for Ötzi, it also has its own language. The Ladin language, which is still spoken today in Val Gardena and Val Badia, dates from 400 BC to the 5th century AD, when South Tyrol was still under the influence of the Romans and Rhaetians.

Tourists have always been in the region, in the past it was the merchants. The region was of enormous importance with numerous trade routes and market places and served as a bridge between the Italian north and the Germanic south. Today you can still see the 800 castles and palaces, which are considered to be remnants of that time. Tyrol has its very special charm, especially the popular region of South Tyrol. Sweet houses, wooden look and the mountains in the background. Especially the Habsburgs shaped the region. Until 1918, South Tyrol belonged to the County of Tyrol and thus to the Habsburg Empire for over 550 years. This period had a great influence on the culture, architecture and cuisine of South Tyrol.

South Tyrol was granted to Italy after the First World War. After years of Italianisation policy and hard political power struggles, the second autonomous status for the protection of South Tyroleans came into force in 1972. People of Italian, German and Ladin mother tongue live peacefully together today.

• Ötzi – The “Iceman” found in the South Tyrolean Alps
• Own language “Ladin”
• South Tyrol still under the influence of the Romans and Rhaetians
• Bridge between Italy and Germany
• Influence of the Habsburg Empire
• Awarded to Italy after the 1st WK
• 1972 the second autonomy status for the protection of the South Tyrolean

Destinations: The most popular holiday resorts in South Tyrol

South Tyrol is a small spot surrounded by Austria, Switzerland and Italy, but it has a lot to offer. Whether it’s a holiday in nature in Merano, boat trips on the Braies Lake or shopping and archaeological discovery tours in Bolzano. Especially families find the right offer for infants and teenagers. Let yourself be enchanted by the breathtaking nature and the mix of Mediterranean and Alpine culture!

1. Merano and environs
2. South Tyrol South
3. Dolomites Alta Badia
4. Eisack Valley
5. Dolomites Val Gardena
6. Dolomites Alpe di Siusi
7. Vinschgau Valley
8. Dolomites Kronplatz
9. Dolomites Hochpustertal
10. Dolomites Egg Valley

Dolomites: Dream destination Southern Alps

The Dolomites, in Italian it is called Dolomiti by the way, are an impressive mountain group of the southern limestone Alps. However, the Dolomites are also considered by many to be part of the Southern Alps. They are distributed over the regions Veneto and Trentino-Alto Adige in Italy and in roughly equal parts over the provinces Belluno, Bolzano-Alto Adige and Trento.

Meran: Between active holidays and pure relaxation!

Merano is a city on the south side of the Alps. It connects north and south through its central location in the middle of South Tyrol. Merano is especially known for its spas and the architectural art reflected in its buildings. Merano is located at an altitude of 325 m and has a population of 37,500 people. Due to its special location, Merano benefits all year round with a mild climate and flowering gardens. Nevertheless, you can find snow-covered peaks in the high mountains and the possibility of winter sports of all kinds. Both German and Italian are spoken and cooked. Let yourself be enchanted by the Mediterranean and Alpine cuisine on your next adventure in the South Tyrolean Alps. Merano offers an extraordinary combination of activities for all those who are looking for a lot of application during their holidays. Between hiking at sunrise, road biking and climbing, Merano has it all. Crystal-clear drinking water on the Passirio river with the quality seal 1 based on bio-indicators, flourishing nature, green terraces along the river are ideal for those who want to enjoy nature in peace and quiet.

Passeier Valley for adrenaline junkies

In the Val Passiria, the adrenalin junkies will find a suitable setting for Tarzaning and Canyoning. “What’s that?”, one or the other might ask. With trained guides you transform nature into your own playground. Rock faces become slides, waterfalls become whirlpools and right in the middle of it all you are swimming, abseiling and diving!

Heini-Holzer via ferrata

Still low on adrenaline? How about climbing the Heini-Holzer via ferrata on the mountain “Kleiner Ifinger”?  The 2550 m high mountain has a 1000 m long via ferrata which offers magnificent views of the Isartal Alps. In the first two months alone it was climbed 10,000 times. In contrast to Hoachwool via ferrata, the Heini-Holzer via ferrata is designed in such a way that children from the age of 10 can also climb it. Of course, the via ferrata should not be underestimated, as there is no opportunity to get off on the way. You can only turn back at the beginning, which is why the initial part is so difficult.

But there is one good news: These views from there are unforgettable and there is a small rest area to take a break and relax!

• 325 m height
• Population of 37,500 people
• German and Italian spoken and cooked in equal measure
• Crystal clear drinking water at the river Passiri
• Tarzaning and Canyoning in the Passeier Valley
• Heini-Holzer Klettersteig – 2550 m high mountain with 1000 m long via ferrata

South Tyrol South: Bolzano, Lake Caldaro, South Tyrolean Wine Road and the Dolomites

Time out around Bolzano, Lake Kaltern, the South Tyrolean Wine Road and the Dolomites. The south of South Tyrol has many beautiful corners. How about real mummies for a small price? For 2.99 euros you can buy a day ticket for the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology and admire the 5000 year old Ötzi. In 1991, he was found by hikers on the Hauslabjoch together with his complete clothing and numerous items of equipment. Neither embalmed nor ritually buried, researchers claim that Ötzi bled to death by an insidious murder. You can find out more on the spot in the museum!

Directions and address: Museum Street 43, 39100 Bolzano

But that is by no means the only thing you can discover about Bolzano. A ride with the cable car takes you from 265 meters to 1000 meters in only 10 minutes. The Kohlern cable car has been in existence for more than 100 years and offers a fantastic view of the provincial capital Bolzano and the south of South Tyrol. Also our shopoholics do not miss out. Due to its history and geographical location, the trading town serves as a bridge between two cultures. So you can find German specialities as well as the typical Italian Cafe Crema, Latte Macchiato or Cappuccino. In addition, you can find traditional South Tyrolean clothing, haute couture and handicrafts at the Saturday market in the numerous family-run shops and boutiques.

• In the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology, the 5000 year old Ötzi
• 1991 he was found together with his complete clothing at the Hauslabjoch
• Bolzano: Cable car takes you up to 1000 meters
• good shopping opportunity

Pragser Wildsee: Breathtaking nature

The lake, 36 metres deep, is also called the “Pearl of the Dolomite Lakes”. The Braies Lake, created long ago by a mudflow, lies at almost 1,500 m above sea level in the beautiful Braies Valley. With its blue-green shimmer it attracts thousands of tourists every year. With its breathtaking beauty it also offers a counterpart to Canada’s National Park in Banff. So why travel almost 7000 kilometers to Canada, when you can discover this beautiful natural spectacle practically on your doorstep ?

The lake plays an important role in the world of legends. Supposedly there is an ancient legend that says that the gate to the underworld is located at the southern end of the lake, where the imposing Seekofel stands today. With a ride in a boat one could allegedly reach the underground kingdom of the Fanes. But even so, a canoe or boat trip on the Braies Lake is worthwhile for a romantic experience on the emerald green lake.

Attention: Even though the lake seems so idyllic, it has icy temperatures even in summer due to the mountain water!

The lake is also ideal for hiking. The 4 km long lake circuit along the shore is suitable for children and adults. In about 1.5 hours you can walk around the lake at a pleasant walking pace. Moreover, it is not a problem for prams or wheelchairs. For a short break there are picnic areas with benches and tables, as well as numerous rest areas. If the way is too strenuous, there is also a shuttle service. It is definitely worth walking to the south shore, because there the fine-grained sandy beach is waiting!

• Name: “Pearl of the Dolomite Lakes
• 36 metres deep
• lies at almost 1,500 m above sea level in the beautiful Braies Valley
• important role in the world of legends – the gateway to the underworld at the southern end of the lake
• 4 km long lake round along the shore

Map: South Tyrol

The South Tyrol known by its name, which officially belongs to the Autonomous Province of Bolzano – South Tyrol, is the northernmost province of Italy and forms together with the Province of Trento the autonomous region Trentino – South Tyrol.

Accommodations

An important part of a journey is the accommodation. Therefore, the question of all questions always arises when planning your holiday. What kind of accommodation do I book? Where exactly will I stay? South Tyrol has so many beautiful corners, that’s why it is so difficult to find the right one. Especially if you try to please everybody. While you are a nature lover yourself and want to be enchanted by the beautiful wide open spaces, the teenage daughters prefer to go shopping in Bolzano. For the small children, entertainment must also be provided, so a visit to the museum might be an option. Having chosen a destination, all the thinking starts with the right accommodation. A good price, nice facilities and a central location cannot be reconciled with the wishes of a nature lover. Holiday apartment or camping?

We have searched for you the advantages and disadvantages of camping and holiday apartments together:

Camping

South Tyrol offers the perfect opportunity for camping. It is not only close to Germany, but impresses with its fascinating nature. That is why South Tyrol has, so to speak, specialised in camping for tourists from German-speaking countries and Italy. Whether caravan or the simple tent, South Tyrol promises to please everyone. With Glamping and motorhome you are in the more luxurious class when it comes to camping. No hard camping mats, no communal showers and no annoying camping accessories. Glamping is the equivalent counterpart to holiday homes. Charming chalets or bungalows that are fully furnished. Nevertheless, we do not advise against typical camping by the lake while gathering around a campfire with your loved ones. A perfect way to take your four-legged friend with you and, unlike the hotel, no one will complain if the children are a little noisy.

Advantage:

• No stress when booking holidays
• Transfer to the hotel included in the price
• Completely cared for by the staff
• Ideal for cooking muffle
• The cleaning is done by others

Disadvantages:

• Significantly higher price
• Extra payments for internet, parking, etc.
• fixed location, no spontaneity
• Mostly no washing, cooking etc. possible

Hotel: Between wellness hotel and family hotel

Nature brings peace. How can you relax more calmly than in one of the numerous wellness hotels in South Tyrol? Hotel owners in South Tyrol have made it their business to transfer the peace of nature to the inner nature of people. In specialized SPA areas you can indulge yourself with relaxing treatments and enjoy your stay to the full. This does not mean that South Tyrol is not a family resort. Besides wellness hotels, family hotels are among the most frequent requests. Holidays in the fresh air let children romp like in their favourite movies. Whether they are experiencing adventures or enjoying the varied holiday programme with other children, which has been developed by nature education specialists.

One thing is clear: the children will not lack for fun and the parents can relax in peace and quiet in togetherness!

Advantage:

• No stress when booking holidays
• Transfer to the hotel included in the price
• Completely cared for by the staff
• Ideal for cooking muffle
• The cleaning is done by others

Disadvantages:

• Significantly higher price
• Extra payments for internet, parking, etc.
• fixed location, no spontaneity
• Mostly no washing, cooking etc. possible

Holiday apartment & holiday home

A holiday apartment is especially for families the ideal accommodation for a holiday in the mountains of South Tyrol. Because an apartment offers great comfort at attractive conditions: a good price-performance ratio for families who want to stay flexible during their holidays. A typical apartment is spacious and has family-friendly, functional furnishings and a fully equipped kitchen. Mostly there is also a balcony or a garden where the children can play undisturbed and let off steam.

Advantage:

• Privacy
• Fully equipped
• Independence
• Flexibility with meals (no getting up early as with package tours)

Disadvantage:

• Tied to one place
• Limited comfort compared to hotel
• Cooking, cleaning and shopping for yourself
• Increased need for luggage (bed linen, towels, etc.)
• More expensive compared to camping

Weather: South Tyrol

Today/ in 3 days

In the north of Italy, bordering on Austria and Switzerland, in the area of the Eastern Alps there is a pleasant climate all year round. The mountain range protects against strong influences of the surrounding climate zones. Warm and humid air masses push from the Mediterranean into the interior, while in the south they are largely kept away by the Dolomites, which means less rain. Towards the north the climate becomes more continental.

Q&A: South Tyrol

Before a planned trip to the desired holiday destination, there are a lot of questions that need to be answered. “What language do they speak there?” or “What regions are located there?” are important elements in planning. Here are the answers to the most frequently asked questions:

Is South Tyrol Italy or Austria?

In which country is South Tyrol? In November 1918, South Tyrol was annexed to the Kingdom of Italy by the Armistice Agreement concluded with Italy and the Treaty of Saint-Germain between the victorious powers of the First World War and the newly created Republic of Austria. In 1919, South Tyrol fell to the Kingdom of Italy and became its northernmost province.

South Tyrol is located entirely in the Alps. The country is both the northernmost and, with a total area of 7400 km², one of the largest provinces in Italy. It is crossed in a north-south direction by the important Brenner transit route, which connects Germany and Austria with northern Italy.

• South Tyrol belongs to Italy

How do they speak in South Tyrol?

In South Tyrol German, Italian and Ladin are spoken, depending on the region in which you are located. As a tourist you can also get along well with English.

• In South Tyrol 70% of the population is German, 25% Italian and 5% Ladin mother tongue.
• Ladin, a Rhaeto-Romanic language, is still spoken in the Dolomite valleys of Val Gardena and Alta Badia.
• The school system in South Tyrol is separated according to language.

Which regions are located in South Tyrol?

There are 8 regions in total, including Merano, Valle Isarco and the popular Dolomites.

1. Merano
2. Eisack Valley
3. Dolomites
4. Hochpustertal
5. Kronplatz
6. Alta Badia
7. Val Gardena
8. Alpe di Siusi

What is an autonomous province?

Autonomous territories are territories within a state that administer themselves internally. They are not sovereign states.