The Sissi Gardens at Castel Trauttmansdorff in Merano are a unique place where nature, art, and history meet. This botanical garden, spanning 12 hectares, hosts over 80 plant environments from around the world. Its panoramic location and Merano’s mild climate have made the gardens a captivating destination since the 19th century, when Empress Elisabeth of Austria (Sissi) chose Castel Trauttmansdorff as her winter residence.
Today, the Sissi Gardens offer a complete experience for all visitors: sensory trails, exotic plants, spectacular views of the spa town of Merano and the surrounding nature, and areas dedicated to cultural events and seasonal activities.
Opening Hours 2026
| Standard opening hours | |
| 1st April- 15th October | 9:00 AM-7:00 PM (last entry: 5:30 PM) |
| 16th - 31st October | 9:00 AM-6:00 PM(last entry: 4:30 PM) |
| 1st - 8th November | 9:00 AM-5:00 PM (last entry: 3.30 PM) |
| Non-standard opening times | |
| June, July, and August: Thursdays only | 9.00 AM-10.30 PM (last entry: 9:00 PM) |
| Short opening hours Garden Nights: 09.07., 16.07., | 9:00 AM-6:00 PM (last entry: 4:30 PM, reduced admission from 15.00) |
| Lumagica | 19th november - 10th january '27 4.30 PM - 9.00 PM |
| Start of the 2027 Season | 26th march 2027 |
The Gardens
Sissi Gardens at Castel Trauttmansdorff in Merano are divided into four main areas, each with unique features:
World Forests
Deciduous and coniferous trees from America and Asia. The vegetation changes according to climate and soil, reproducing natural ecosystems from temperate regions such as southern Japan and Florida.
Sun Gardens
Mediterranean plants like olive trees, lemons, cypresses, figs, and lavender. On the south side of the castle is the northernmost olive grove in Italy. Aromatic dwarf shrubs and evergreen trees recreate the Mediterranean landscape.
Terraced and Water Gardens
Paths, flowerbeds, and water streams lead to the Water Lily Pond, surrounded by colorful riparian vegetation. These areas combine Italian and English garden styles in a harmonious, multifaceted layout.
South Tyrol Landscapes
Orchards, vineyards, chestnut groves, fields, and meadows showcase how history and agriculture shaped the South Tyrolean landscape over centuries.
Sensory Stations in Sissi Gardens
The Sissi Gardens are not only a spectacular botanical garden, but also a multisensory park designed to stimulate the senses for visitors of all ages. Interactive attractions include:
- Sound Rock – a porphyry stone creating a unique echo effect.
- Tuberello House – a playhouse in the forest for children.
- Multimedia Cave – lights, sounds, and images explaining the origins of life.
- Lovers’ Garden – a romantic area immersed in nature.
- Tropical Greenhouse – exotic plants, insects, and reptiles from around the world.
- Adventure Bridge – a suspended bridge through the forest for fun and panoramic views.
- Alpenzoo Display – terrarium with Aesculapian snakes and Mediterranean plants.
- Dragonfly Clock – educational installation on species and flight periods.
- Underground Plant Kingdom – explores the secrets of the plant world underground.
- Barefoot Path – a sensory path for kids and adults.
- Giant Beehive – discover bee life safely.
- Geological Mosaic – interactive panels explaining the rocks of the Alpine region.
Art and Pavilions in Sissi Gardens
Art and nature merge uniquely. Pavilions and art installations interpret botanical themes, stimulating visitor curiosity. Local and international sculptures enrich the gardens, blending natural beauty with artistic creativity.
How to reach Sissi Gardens
By bus
Buses n° 1 (Trauttmansdorff) and n° 4 (Maia Alta) depart from the city center and Merano train station every 20 minutes, stopping at Trauttmansdorff.
By car or coach
From Bolzano via the MEBO motorway (SS 38) or from Passo di Resia (SS 40 / SS 38), take the exit Sinich | Sinigo, follow signs to the city center, and at the second roundabout turn right towards Scena. The four parking areas of the Gardens of Sissi are only 2 km from here.
Parking options:
P1 and P2: 345 paid spaces (€5 per day). Often full during peak hours (10:00–13:00).
P3 and P4: free, about 5 minutes’ walk from the entrance.
P1: 2 paid charging stations for electric vehicles.
P4: dedicated camper parking for the duration of the visit. Overnight stays are not allowed.
By train
Arriving by train? Get off at Merano station, about 5 km from the Gardens. The bus takes around 20 minutes.
On foot
Reach the Gardens of Sissi with a pleasant 40-minute walk along the Sentiero di Sissi, from Merano historic center to Trauttmansdorff. The route passes the Passeggiata Lungo Passirio, the Wandelhalle, and the Passeggiata d’Inverno, continuing through castles and historic villas. The trail is easy for the return trip as well.
By bike
Several marked bike paths lead directly to the Gardens of Sissi. Bike racks are available at the entrance.
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