Visit Merano
Merano, a charming spa town in South Tyrol, is a jewel of the region and the perfect base for exploring its stunning surroundings. Nestled at the gateway to Val Venosta, one of the most picturesque valleys in South Tyrol, Merano combines natural beauty, rich history, and a uniquely mild climate.
Merano Highlights at a Glance
Things to do in Merano
With 315 days of sunshine, Merano is a paradise for outdoor adventurers. Whether hiking, cycling, or mountain biking, these regions offer endless opportunities for adventure. Hiring a bike is an excellent way to explore the surrounding diverse trails, from challenging mountain routes to gentle valley paths perfect for families. Hikers and mountaineers will also find a wide range of tours, from high-alpine summit treks to easy, family-friendly routes.
For more ideas of things to do in Merano, here are 5 must-do activities for every traveller to experience:
Venture into the Texel Group Nature Park, the largest nature park and home to the largest high-alpine lake district in South Tyrol, the Lakes Sopranes. This scenic area offers breathtaking hiking trails that weave through unspoiled nature, past crystal-clear alpine lakes, and rugged mountain peaks. It's a paradise for nature enthusiasts and photographers seeking tranquility and unparalleled beauty.
Experience an outdoor "cinema" like no other at Knottenkino, a panoramic viewpoint above the village of Vöran. Wooden recliner seats are perfectly positioned to take in sweeping views of the natural surroundings and on clear days, you can see South Tyrol's highest mountain, the Ortler, standing at 3,905 meters. Bring a picnic and enjoy a peaceful retreat while immersing yourself in nature.
Discover the breathtaking Val Senales, a valley steeped in both history and adventure. Visit the impressive glacier, where you can marvel at ancient ice formations and enjoy year-round skiing. For a truly unique experience, hike up to Ötzi Peak, named after the famous "Iceman" whose remains were found nearby. Immerse yourself in the region's fascinating past by exploring the Ötzi Archaeological Museum, where you can learn about the history of this 5,300-year-old discovery.
Just a stone's throw from Merano, the Gardens of Trauttmannsdorff are a vibrant oasis waiting to be explored. With themed sections, colourful flowers, and plants from all over the world, these gardens are perfect for a relaxing and peaceful day out. Be sure to check out the stunning panoramic views from the top and the fun, interactive exhibits in the “Touriseum”, the provincial Museum of Tourism.
Explore the magical Kränzelhof, a place where art, nature, and wine come together in perfect harmony. Stroll through the 7 famous gardens, explore the creative art installations, and treat yourself to some incredible local wines from the estate’s winery. For something extra special, join in on seasonal events like full moon meditations or conscious breathing sessions to really soak up the peaceful atmosphere of Kränzelhof.
These attractions are all within Merano and the Val Venosta region, making them easy to include in your travel itinerary whilst staying at a Dolce Vita Hotel.
Luxury Escapes in Merano
Merano map and location
Merano is easily accessible, whether you’re travelling by car, train, or plane, making it a convenient destination for your South Tyrol getaway.
To get to Merano, the easiest routes include:
By Car
Merano is just a short drive from the main highways of South Tyrol. If you're coming from Bolzano (about 30 minutes), head south on the SS38. From Innsbruck in Austria, it takes roughly 1.5 - 2 hours, and from Verona in Italy, about 2 hours.
By Train
Merano is well-connected by the South Tyrol train network. The Merano Train Station is located just a few kilometres from the town centre, with regular connections to Bolzano and other key South Tyrol destinations.
By Air
The nearest airport to Merano is Bolzano Airport, about 30 minutes away by car. For international flights, Verona Villafranca Airport and Innsbruck Airport are also nearby, both approximately 2 hours' drive away.