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Trauttmansdorff: A Journey Through Four Garden Worlds

More than 80 garden landscapes, the Touriseum and sweeping views over Merano: our guide to a relaxing day at Trauttmansdorff

2 minutes read

Panoramic view over the gardens of Trauttmansdorff Castle near Merano

Just a few minutes above Merano, a surprisingly vast world opens up: the Gardens of Trauttmansdorff Castle bring together more than 80 garden landscapes across twelve hectares. Around 100 metres of elevation separate the lowest and highest points – enough to offer constantly changing perspectives of the plants, the castle and the surrounding mountains

Four Garden Worlds, One Full Day

The gardens are divided into four distinct garden worlds. In the “Forests of the World”, trees and shrubs from America and East Asia thrive. The sunny slopes are home to Mediterranean plants, while the Water and Terraced Gardens combine clean lines, ponds and lush perennials. Completing the experience are the Landscapes of South Tyrol, with vineyards, orchards and traditional cottage gardens.

It is precisely this variety that makes Trauttmansdorff so special: rather than simply walking through a botanical garden, you travel through different climate zones in just a few hours. Viewpoints, pavilions and small interactive stations invite you to explore at your own pace

More Than Flowers: The Touriseum

Inside the castle, the Touriseum tells the story of around 250 years of tourism in the Alpine region. Historical displays and carefully crafted details show how arduous journeys gradually evolved into the holiday culture that still shapes South Tyrol today. The gardens and museum therefore complement each other perfectly.

Our Tip for Your Visit in 2026

  • The 2026 season runs from 1 April to 8 November, with the gardens open daily from 9 a.m
  • For a relaxed visit, allow around three to six hours
  • Comfortable shoes are recommended because of the changes in elevation.
  • Dogs and other animals are not permitted in the gardens

Those who start early can enjoy the paths while they are still quieter and still have plenty of time later for a café, restaurant or picnic. In 2026, the exhibition “Architecture on the Move” adds another dimension to the visit, with further special events taking place in summer and autumn. Before setting off, we recommend taking a quick look at the current events calendar.



Information: The Gardens of Trauttmansdorff Castle
Image: Böhringer Friedrich, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.5.