Merano: Between mountain peaks and palm trees - Discover South Tyrol‘s hidden paradise
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The Mediterranean Gem in the Alps
Vacation in Merano and Surroundings
Discover the essence of South Tyrol in all its diversity: In Merano, the elegant spa town, you will find a Mediterranean vegetation that stands in fascinating contrast to the traditional alpine landscapes. Stroll through the sun-drenched vineyards of the Etsch Valley, explore the untouched nature of the Passeier and Ultental valleys, and experience the impressive beauty of the peaks in the Texel Group Nature Park. This holiday paradise offers a rich palette of landscapes, perfectly suited for those seeking relaxation, nature enthusiasts, and adventurers.
In addition, numerous cultural events and attractions enrich your stay and make your vacation an unforgettable experience. Discover rich history, enjoy diverse gastronomy, and immerse yourself in a vibrant cultural scene.
The hotels in Merano and the surrounding area impress with diversity and excellence, whether you want to focus on wellness, culinary delights, or fitness and activities during your vacation.
Merano with Passirio River and Promenade
Kurhaus in Merano
Gardens of Trauttmansdorff Castle
Hochnaturns Castle
Merano in Spring
Lebenberg Castle
St. Hypolit in Naraun near Tisens
Golf Course in Passeier Valley
Mountain Farm
Haflinger Chapel with Merano Mountains
Vernagt Reservoir in Schnals Valley
Timmelsjoch High Alpine Road
Pfelders
Merano Advent Market
Hafling Winter Panorama
Summer Vacation in Merano and Surroundings
Discover the diverse leisure opportunities that this beautiful region has to offer. The mountain world invites you to extensive hiking tours. Experience the famous Merano High Trail, which delights with breathtaking panoramic views and diverse flora and fauna. Also worth a visit are the Muthöfe above Dorf Tirol, which impress not only with their picturesque location but also with their traditional South Tyrolean architecture. For nature lovers, the Ultner Höfeweg, with its ancient larch trees, offers an incomparable hiking experience.
For adventure seekers, the high ropes course in Terlan presents challenges at lofty heights, while climbing enthusiasts can try their skills on the numerous climbing routes in the region. Golf lovers will find ideal conditions at the Passeier-Meran Golf Course to pursue their hobby amidst the South Tyrolean mountain landscape.
The outdoor area of the Terme Merano offers refreshment and relaxation on hot summer days and is a perfect place to recover after sporting activities. Horse lovers can explore the landscape while riding Haflingers, the traditional horse breed of South Tyrol.
Cyclists and mountain bikers will find excellent conditions in the Passeier Valley. The Passeier Cycle Path leads through idyllic landscapes and offers a wonderful opportunity to discover the region on two wheels.
Cultural highlights include the ArcheoParc in the Schnalstal, which provides insights into the prehistoric era of the region, as well as the MuseumPasseier in St. Leonhard, which is dedicated to local history and culture.
Nature lovers will appreciate the nature parks and lakes, such as the idyllic Felixer Weiher, as well as the unique gardens of Trauttmansdorff Castle, which showcase a fascinating variety of plants from around the world.
Guest opinion from Markus
"My stay in one of the charming hotels in the region was once again a dream. From my room's window, I had a view of the surrounding mountains and vineyards, a sight that made every morning a super experience. The staff at the hotel was, as always, extraordinarily friendly and accommodating, which made the vacation even more enjoyable. I can hardly wait to return here soon!"
Spronser Lakes: Grünsee - Texel Group Nature Park - Photo: Wikipedia-User: Noclador - CC BY-SA 3.0
Winter Vacation in Merano and Surroundings
Spend your winter holiday in Merano and enjoy the diverse offerings that this region has for you. Winter sports enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy in the ski areas. The Pfelders ski area in the Passeier Valley, the Alpin Arena Schnals, Merano 2000, and the Schwemmalm in Ultental offer well-groomed slopes for skiers and snowboarders. Sunny descents and varied slopes guarantee fun and variety for the whole family.
In addition to alpine skiing, the regions also invite you to romantic winter hikes, for example at the Vigiljoch, where you can enjoy the snowy landscape in peace. Cross-country skiing enthusiasts will find excellent conditions in Ulten near Kuppelwies on well-groomed trails that lead through the quiet winter landscape.
Whether you are seeking the tranquility of nature or want to engage in sports, here you will find the perfect balance for a relaxing and eventful winter holiday.
Your Car-Free Vacation
For a stress-free and environmentally conscious journey to Merano and its picturesque surroundings, we recommend switching from the road to the rail. On-site, buses, trains, or cable cars allow for convenient transportation to your accommodation or planned excursion destinations.
Arrival by train: From the provincial capital of Bolzano, you can reach Merano directly by connecting train to the surrounding areas. For onward travel, there are buses, taxis, or the shuttle service "Südtirol Transfer," which comfortably takes you directly to your holiday residence.
Mobility on-site: After your arrival in Merano and the surrounding area, the Südtirol Guest Pass allows you unlimited use of all public transport throughout the South Tyrol region. This pass is the key to a versatile and ecologically sustainable holiday experience.
The Südtirol Guest Pass is not only practical but also helps you make the most of your holiday without having to worry about parking or timetables.
Spa Town with Great Tradition
The origins of Merano date back to Roman times when the area served as a rest stop on trade routes over the Alps. In the Middle Ages, Merano gained significance. This period marked the beginning of a flourishing time when trade, crafts, and culture thrived in the region.
The strategic location contributed to the city playing an important role in the political disputes of the region during the Middle Ages. Numerous castles and palaces built around Merano still testify to this tumultuous time.
In the 19th century, the European aristocracy discovered Merano as a spa resort. The mild Mediterranean climate, the magnificent alpine landscape, and the establishment of elegant promenades and parks made the city a popular destination for those seeking relaxation and contributed to a boom in tourism. Famous personalities such as Empress Elisabeth of Austria, better known as Sisi, as well as writers and poets spent their holidays here and contributed to Merano's international reputation as a spa town.
More information about the municipality of Merano
Spa Town Merano
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Culture
The Merano region is characterized by an extraordinary wealth of art and culture. A special gem of the region is the Prokulus Church in Naturns, a sacred building from the 7th century, which is one of the oldest testimonies of architecture in South Tyrol. The area is also rich in historic castles, mysterious ruins, and magnificent estates, as well as the impressive shield farms in the Passeier Valley, all of which bear witness to the region's tumultuous past.
The diverse museums in the region shed light on various cultural and historical aspects. For example, the Agricultural Museum in Dorf Tirol provides insights into rural life, while the Jewish Museum in Merano highlights the history of the Jewish community in the region. The Fruit Tree Museum in Lana is dedicated to traditional fruit farming, and the Typewriter Museum in Partschins tells the story of writing culture. In the heart of the magnificent Botanical Gardens of Trauttmansdorff Castle, there is also the South Tyrol Museum of Tourism, which traces the development of tourism in South Tyrol.
Event highlights in Merano
The colorful Merano Grape Festival attracts numerous spectators every autumn, who can look forward to a spectacle full of tradition and joie de vivre.
Wine lovers from around the world gather every November when the Merano WineFestival transforms the Kurhaus into a central location for enjoying exquisite wines and specialties.
The pre-Christmas atmosphere of the Merano Christmas Market, framed by the festive backdrop of the spa promenade and the Kurhaus, offers a magical break with music and the scent of Christmas pastries.
At the street artist festival Asfaltart, international artists enliven Merano with a weekend full of entertainment and creativity.
The long Tuesdays invite you to stroll in the summer, as music, culinary delights, and extended opening hours bring the old town to life.
Once a year, freshly groomed horses parade through the city during the Haflinger procession to the horse racing venue, where the traditional Haflinger gallop race takes place.
More about the events at Merano-Suedtirol.it
Culinary Delights
Are you looking for an exquisite culinary experience or do you prefer an authentic meal under the starry sky? Here you can find both. Elegant gourmet restaurants offer creative interpretations of haute cuisine, while traditional inns and mountain huts serve hearty South Tyrolean specialties. The elegant spa town, surrounded by a touch of southern flair, invites you to linger: Meet for a quick espresso, the “caffè al volo,” or enjoy a relaxed aperitif in the warming sun. A must-try is the refreshing “Hugo” – this popular cocktail actually originated in Naturns.
Merano not only offers a variety of culinary delights but also unforgettable views. Enjoy your meal with breathtaking panoramas in one of the many alpine and mountain huts scattered throughout the picturesque landscape. This combination of taste experiences and the beauty of nature makes every visit a special event. Whether you choose refined gastronomy or rustic cuisine, in Merano and its surroundings, you can expect a culinary journey that will delight your palate and enchant your senses.
Authentic Quality from the Region
Are you looking for a fresh, crunchy apple or an exquisite glass of wine from a historic organic winery? Do you prefer bacon from happy pigs that live outdoors, or a unique, handcrafted piece from an established city jeweler? In the region around Merano and throughout South Tyrol, you will find a wealth of local products known for their high quality and authentic craftsmanship. From food to household items and artworks – the variety is impressive.
While strolling through the towns and villages of the region, you may have the opportunity to watch artisans directly at work. Whether it's making jewelry, carving wooden sculptures, or weaving baskets – the dedication and skill of the craftsmen are fascinating. Many of these high-quality products can be purchased directly from the producer, where you not only have the chance to taste the products but also gain insight into their origin and production process.
This close connection between tradition and modernity, between nature and craftsmanship makes a visit to Merano and its surroundings a true experience for lovers of quality and authenticity. Discover the treasures of the region, and let yourself be inspired by the passion and pride of the producers. Here you will find not only unique products but also a piece of regional culture and lifestyle.
Shopping Experience in Merano
Does your wardrobe need new contents? Then the cities of South Tyrol, and especially Merano with its charming old town, invite you to a unique shopping experience. Between the historic arcades, Rennweg, and Freiheitsstraße, life pulses, and here lies the heart of the lively shopping scene. Merano offers you an exclusive selection of shops, ranging from the latest trends in Italian fashion to local South Tyrolean designers and traditional costumes to sports equipment. Discover alpine natural cosmetics, exquisite handicrafts, and delicatessen shops with regional specialties that blend seamlessly into the urban flair. Framed by trendy bars, cozy restaurants, and inviting cafés, your shopping day will be a true delight.
Frequently Asked Questions about Merano & Surroundings
1. What can you do in Merano and the surrounding area? There are numerous activities in Merano: Walking on the Tappeiner Promenade, relaxing in the Terme Merano, hiking around Merano 2000, or visiting the Gardens of Trauttmansdorff Castle.
2. What attractions are there in Merano? Among the most popular highlights are the Merano Kurhaus, the old town of Merano with its famous arcades, and the Women's Museum. The surrounding towns also offer cultural and scenic highlights.
3. When is the best time to travel to Merano? Merano is a year-round destination. In spring and autumn, the mild climate is convincing. Summer holidays in Merano are ideal for hiking, and winter ski holidays in Merano 2000 are very popular.
4. What excursion destinations are there around Merano? Recommended places in the vicinity include Dorf Tirol, Schenna, Algund, and Ultental. A ride with the cable car to Vigiljoch is also worthwhile.
5. Are there family-friendly offers in Merano? Yes, Merano is perfect for families: There are child-friendly hiking trails, riding opportunities, a water park, and many family hotels. Museums and nature experiences like the Waalwege are also ideal for little explorers.
6. Where can you eat well in Merano? Whether traditional South Tyrolean cuisine or fine dining – Merano offers plenty of enjoyment. Typical dishes include speck and dumplings, schlutzkrapfen, and South Tyrolean wines. Many restaurants focus on regional ingredients and authentic recipes.
7. How do I get to Merano best? The journey is straightforward: Via the Brenner motorway (exit Bolzano South), continue via the expressway to Merano. Merano is also easily accessible by train or long-distance bus – e.g., via Bolzano and then by regional train or the South Tyrolean bus network.
8. What accommodations are available in Merano and the surrounding area? Whether stylish wellness hotel, cozy guesthouse, modern holiday apartment, or family-friendly farm holiday – Merano offers the right accommodation for every taste and budget.
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Hotel Rabenstein is located in the idyllic village of Rabenstein in Val Passiria/Passeiertal and is ideal for hikers, those seeking relaxation and mountain bikers. Here you can stay in comfortable rooms or vacation apartments and have the opportunity to recharge your batteries in the hotel‘s own sauna.
Plunge into a holiday where all your expectations are exceeded. Once again have time for yourself, relax the soul and spend a holiday in a place cosy like home.
Special charm and personal service from your hosts make a stay in the Belvita Romantic You Me Hotels full of pure holiday joy guaranteed to leave no wish unfulfilled. Love and care can be seen in each and every detail of our comprehensive wellness offer. Just sit back, relax and enjoy a feeling of wellbeing.
Enjoy the summer to the fullest at HOTEL WEGER in a double room in idyllic rural style and new wellness area at a special weekly rate from € 559 per person with half board including MERAN-CARD. We look forward to your inquiry!
Today‘s forecast predicts plenty of pleasure and relaxation. Look forward to some culinary masterpieces and the satisfaction of doing whatever you please. In other words: Dolce Vita - at our Pure Pleasure Hotel in Hafling.
Hotel Hirzer ★★★★s Avelengo
Double room with three-quarter board from 1029 € per person
The Val Passiria is located north of the famous spa town of Merano and is surrounded by the Ötztal, Stubai, and Sarntal Alps. The valley is not only the home of the freedom fighter Andreas Hofer, who was born in St. Leonhard in 1767, but also a perfect place for active holidaymakers and nature lovers.
In the back of Passeier, where the valley is steep and the atmosphere is very alpine, lies the municipality of Moso. It includes 5 hamlets, including: the main village of Moso, Platt, Pfelders, Stuls and Rabenstein. If you love a fresh breeze and a rough climate, you should definitely plan your next vacation in Moso. The town center is located at 1007 meters above sea level, surrounded by ...
The picturesque village of Plan / Pfelders is located in the middle of the South Tyrolean Nature Park Texel Group, only about 45 minutes away from Merano. It is a paradise for all nature lovers, who can discover the fantastic mountain landscape on numerous hiking trails as well as with mountain bikes.
Surrounded by the Stubai, Ötztal, and Sarntal Alps, the Passeier Valley is located at the entrance to the Texel Group Nature Park. San Leonardo / St. Leonhard, the main town of the valley at the junction of the roads to Timmelsjoch and the Jaufen Pass, is almost a sacred place for Tyroleans as the hometown of their folk hero Andreas Hofer. Here - in his birthplace, the Gasthof ...
Picturesquely situated, San Martino in Passiria / St. Martin in Passeier is located on the western bank of the Passer River below the Matatzspitze. Just a few kilometers from Merano, the beautiful holiday resort offers the best infrastructure, a rich leisure activities, as well as peace and tranquility for wellness vacationers and those seeking relaxation.
The Passeier Valley is famous as the ...
Where the Passeier Valley transitions into the Merano region, there is a beautiful place that is still considered a hidden gem by vacationers. Saltusio is home to no more than 350 people - at an altitude of 490 meters, the motto here is "small but nice". For those in desperate need of a break from the hectic everyday life, Saltusio is the right place. Peace and relaxation are a top ...
At the entrance to the Passeier Valley, only 5km from the spa town of Merano, you will find the holiday resorts Rifiano and Caines. If you like it quiet, relaxed, and a little dreamy, this is the right place for you. Rifiano and Caines have preserved their original rural character. Surrounded by fruit trees, chestnuts, and vineyards, you can take a holiday from everyday life in a wellness ...
The little village of San Pancrazio is located at an altitude of 736 meters and is the first larger settlement in the approximately 40-kilometer-long Ultental. Here, a paradise awaits nature lovers and those who are yet to become one. The valley has a very original shape, with the villages and settlements mostly located on sunny slopes, often at the foot of the tree line. The Falschauer River, ...
Tirolo / Dorf Tirol is located above the sunny vineyards above the spa town of Merano in the heart of South Tyrol. The hospitable South Tyrolean municipality has around 2,450 inhabitants and extends from Zenoberg at around 600 meters up to the Texel Group Nature Park and the Spronser Lakes at around 2,500 meters above sea level. Such a difference in altitude also offers a diverse landscape. ...
If it's too turbulent in the lively spa town of Merano, you can escape to the immediate vicinity. Schenna is only 4km away and the municipal area actually begins where the city area of Merano ends. The village includes the localities of Verdins, St. Georgen, Schennaberg, Videgg, Unter- and Obertall as well as the village itself. Although all the places are spread over an area of 48km² ...
On the southern edge of the Texel Group National Park, the idyllic village of Lagundo / Algund is located just 55 meters from Merano. The most striking building is the new parish church, consecrated in 1971 and considered one of the most beautiful modern religious buildings in Tyrol. Also worth seeing are the old parish church, the Maria Steinach monastery, and the remains of a bridgehead of the ...
In the picturesque Vinschgau you will find the municipality of Parcines / Partschins. It is located just a few kilometers from the popular spa town of Merano and offers everything a holidaymaker's heart desires. Here you will find peace and contemplation, cooling off on hot days, and joy in numerous culinary delights. Starting from Parcines, the famous Texel Group rises - for this reason, the ...
The mountains and forests around the town offer endless opportunities for hiking. Nordic walking can also be practiced with or without an instructor. Walking paths and promenades are located in the valley among the fruit trees, shady Waal paths run along the old irrigation canals, and beautiful hiking trails lead to sunny alpine meadows. You can reach the 1,795m high Vigiljoch via alpine paths, ...
Even inexperienced South Tyrol vacationers are familiar with the city of Merano. The second largest city in the country is a well-known and popular holiday destination for young and old. The main settlement is gently nestled in a valley and has approximately 38,000 inhabitants. The surrounding mountains of the Texel Group, some of which reach a height of 3337 meters, serve only as a beautiful ...
Around 800 inhabitants have settled in Avelengo / Hafling on the "sun terrace of Merano". This affectionate name is not undeserved for the settlement on the Tschögglberg between Bozen and Merano: mild winters and many hours of sunshine per year make it an ideal gem for holidaymakers and those seeking relaxation. In the districts of Avelengo / Hafling Dorf, St. Kathrein, Hafling ...
Slightly above Burgstall, at an altitude of 1200 meters, lies the small municipality of Verano / Vöran. Around 950 people live here, and everyday life is characterized by unspoiled nature and thoughtful coziness. In addition to the main town of the same name, Verano / Vöran also includes the districts of Aschl, Hinterkofl, Unterdorf, and Leander Alm. The history shows that this piece of ...
The 5500 souls community of Naturno Naturns is located very close to Merano, but is still its own little paradise. Here, relaxation and well-being are given top priority, which is why more and more holidaymakers are drawn to the friendly town, which is situated at a gentle 554 meters above sea level. In fact, it is not just a municipality, but a large holiday and recreational area. Naturno is ...
Plaus in the Vinschgau is located about 10km west of Merano. The small municipality with not even 700 inhabitants is a haven of peace and relaxation. The old village well under the protected maple tree in the square opposite the parish church perfectly symbolizes this idyll: Here you can forget everyday life and stress, take a vacation and enjoy life.
Worth seeing is the parish church of St. ...
The idyllic holiday resort Cermes / Tscherms is located less than 10 km southwest of Merano in the Burggrafenamt. The biggest attraction and landmark of the town is Schloss Lebenberg, an impressive picturesque castle from the 13th century. Also worth a visit is the powerful Ansitz Kränzel, home of the winery of the same name, not least because of the beautiful labyrinth garden, which is a ...
At the center of the picturesque Merano region, at an altitude of about 300m, lies Lana, nestled between lush vineyards and juicy apple orchards, and surrounded by the charming villages of Cermes, Postal, Gargazzone, and the idyllic mountain village of Völlan. This place, known for its high quality of life and pleasant Mediterranean climate, offers a unique holiday experience. Historical ...
Sometimes you get the feeling that time stands still in Postal / Burgstall. The small village is located at an altitude of 270 meters and is only 8km away from Merano. Among South Tyrol holidaymakers, Postal is still considered a hidden gem. There are no more than 1600 inhabitants here, yet there are plenty of cozy accommodations available for holiday guests. If you want to escape the hustle and ...
The municipality of Gargazzone / Gargazon, also known as Gargazzone in Italian, is located in the south of Merano, about 14 kilometers from the popular spa town. Although the village has good transport connections, it is still somewhat secluded, which is appreciated by both locals and tourists. There are no more than 1600 inhabitants living here at an altitude of about 267 meters. As small as ...
In the midst of the holiday region Meraner Land in South Tyrol lies the sunny Tisener mountain range. Here we are in a holiday paradise of unique beauty and originality. The holiday area Tesimo-Prissiano / Tisens-Prissian with its picturesque villages Tesimo, Prissiano, Grissian, Gfrill, Naraun, Platzers and Schernag is located away from through traffic and impresses with its tranquility, mild ...
The fruit and wine village Nalles (German: Nals) is the southernmost municipality of the Burggrafenamt and is located in the Etschtal valley halfway between Bolzano and Merano. Due to its mild climate and the fantastic location at the foot of the Gaider mountain, it is an ideal holiday destination for those seeking relaxation, for sports enthusiasts, and for gourmets. In the hotels, you will find ...
The Ultental and the adjacent Deutschnonsberg is a holiday area as relaxation seekers would wish for: peace, sunny climate, and unspoiled nature characterize the region. Eight villages invite you to vacation and holidays: St. Pancras, St. Walburg, St. Nicholas, and St. Gertraud in the Ultental and - separated by a mountain ridge - Proveis, Laurein, St. Felix, and Our Lady in the Forest in ...
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