Spa Town of Merano

Merano, city of cures

The origins of Merano/Meran as a spa town date back to the 19th century, when the first guests began frequenting the spa at the newly established health resort. Following Empress Elisabeth of Austria’s visit in the 1870’s, Merano soon became a popular spa resort for the aristocracy and bourgeoisie from all across Europe. Luxury hotels were erected as well as architectural works of art such as the Pavillon des Fleurs, the Kurhaus and the Kurmittelhaus as well as the theatre.

The local economy flourished, but languished in the decades of the two world wars. After the end of the Second World War, visitors began returning to Merano and the town regained its role as a holiday destination. Strong factors behind the revival were the area’s radon-rich springs and the organization of events aimed at promoting the city as a salon and meeting place for musicians, painters, poets and writers. Nowadays, the main tourist highlights are the Gardens of Trauttmansdorff Castle and the Terme Merano thermal baths.

The Flair of Merano

The city of Merano/Meran combines Mediterranean elegance and lightness with Alpine tradition and cultural diversity. This diversity brings a unique sense of lifestyle with a southern touch, also encouraged by the relatively mild Merano climate.

In Merano, hearty Tyrolean food is combines with spicy Mediterranean cuisine to create a completely new taste sensation. Elegant pastry shops and Italian coffee bars line the city center, where in the morning a macchiato is drunk while standing. The typical Italian practice of the aperitif has long established itself in Merano as an after work habit.

The garden city Meran

Merano's cityscape is characterized by large parks and lovingly maintained promenades. The Tappeiner Promenade, located just above Merano, is one of the longest promenades in Europe and offers four kilometers of lush, Mediterranean vegetation as well as wonderful scenic points on the Meran basin. The Gardens of Trauttmansdorff Castle are in turn one of the most beautiful botanical sites in the world and, with their great variety of plants, are also emblematic of the characteristic Meran interaction of Alpine and Mediterranean.

Since 1930, the Merano City Nursery has been responsible for the care and maintenance of urban green spaces. Almost 40 ancient and particularly impressive giant trees in the parks of Merano were officially declared "natural monuments" by the municipality.