This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel.
Merano is a spa town in South Tyrol, Italy. Situated in a basin surrounded by mountains, it has a mild climate. Tourists are attracted to the blend of Alpine and Mediterranean influences within this town which became part of Italy after World War I. The unique blend of two cuisines-German and Italian- is another reason to visit Merano. Whether it is summer or winter, there are plenty of activities to pursue in this Alpine town.
Summer time sees residents and tourists alike hiking and climbing mountain trails to reach heights for spectacular views. A trip to the Trauttmansdorff Castle allows visitors to enjoy the beautiful gardens, explore the museum, and find other treasures including a cave and a small farm. The walk back into town along Sissi-Weg is a treasure in itself.
Walking down the Tappeiner Promenade along the river is another wonderful way to spend a summer day. Take the stairs or a lift up and proceed to walk along this well-known path. You will pass restaurants to indulge your appetite, an herb garden to treat your senses, and a tower which will let you savor some of the most all-encompassing views of Merano. If you are lucky, there will be the sounds of a summer concert drifting through the fresh air as you walk along the promenade.
If you are visiting Merano during the cold months, you can try out winter sports such as ice climbing, skiing, snow boarding, sledding, and ice skating. In case the cold becomes too much to bear, you can seek refuge in the Terme Merano where you can swim in any one of twelve indoor and thirteen outdoor pools, most of them set at deliciously warm temperatures. You can also relax and try the steam bath, aromatic bath, Finnish sauna, mudpacks, and radon inhalation.
The town is also a great place to visit a vineyard and try out the local Meraner Leiten (also called Meranese Di Collina), a light red wine. It is the perfect complement for a fine meal of the region’s unique blend of German and Italian cuisines.
After an active day amid the Alpine air, you will want to find accommodations within the town. If you are on a budget, you will wish to stay in a hostel or other affordable lodging. Unfortunately, hostels are sparse in Merano. If you are traveling as part of a group, your team might want to consider a vacation rental. Such rentals are available in Merano, but cheaper ones are available in towns like Lagundo. Three or more travelers sharing a vacation rental will spend about the same amount per person as they would spend on each hostel bed. Be sure to arrange your vacation rental well before your arrival date.
Written by local expertz for Merano
Jakob Lombardi
