Trauttmansdorff Castle near Merano is where history meets extraordinary nature - a neo-Gothic residence surrounded by one of the most beautiful botanical gardens in Europe. In 1870, Empress Elisabeth of Austria, known as Sissi, stayed here, an event that made Merano a famous spa town.

The castle rises on a hill above the valley, encircled by terraced gardens that blend alpine plants with Mediterranean and exotic species. In spring and summer the gardens burst with color, autumn brings striking foliage, and winter offers peaceful walks with views of the snow-capped peaks surrounding Merano. The atmosphere combines the elegance of old aristocracy with the relaxed spirit of a spa town.

How to get there

• Merano (town center) - on foot or by city bus, approx. 20-30 minutes, easy route
• Parking available near the castle for visitors arriving by car

Practical information

• The castle houses the Touriseum - the provincial museum of tourism
• The botanical garden has been open since 2001
• Joseph von Trauttmansdorff is buried in the crypt beneath the castle chapel

Worth knowing: the castle's current appearance is thanks to Count Joseph von Trauttmansdorff, who in the mid-19th century bought back the ruined family estate and transformed it into the first neo-Gothic castle in Tyrol.