Merano

Merano / Meran

Merano is an elegant spa town nestled between apple orchards and Alpine peaks with a mild microclimate that attracted European royalty in the 19th century. Its Art Nouveau promenades and thermal baths make it uniquely charming.

Things to do

• Relax at Terme Merano thermal baths — Soak in indoor and outdoor pools fed by natural thermal spring waters year-round.
• Walk the Tappeiner promenade — Stroll this 4km botanical path above the town with panoramic views of the valley.
• Visit Trauttmansdorff Castle and Gardens — Explore the lavish gardens where Empress Elisabeth of Austria once recuperated.
• Merano Wine Festival — Attend the prestigious November wine fair showcasing top Italian and South Tyrolean producers.
• Day hike to Texel Group Nature Park — Hike into one of the largest Alpine nature parks directly above the town.

Food to try

• South Tyrolean apples — The Adige Valley produces around 10% of Europe's apples; try them fresh or as juice.
• Kaminwurzen — Thin smoked sausages dried in the chimney smoke, perfect with rye bread and mustard.
• Lagrein wine — A full-bodied red grape variety unique to Alto Adige with deep color and dark berry flavors.
• Vinschgauer Bauernbrot — Dense rye bread from the Vinschgau Valley flavored with caraway and fennel seeds.

Local customs & good to know

• Embrace the spa culture — Taking the waters is a long tradition; book thermal treatments in advance for peak times.
• Afternoon quiet hours — Merano's residential streets observe strict quiet hours between 1–3pm and after 10pm.
• Explore Habsburg heritage — The town's Belle Époque architecture is tied to the Austrian Empire; seek out the old kurhaus.