The Arcades

The arcades of Merano are not just a piece of history but a living part of the city. Built in the 13th century by Meinhard II as a commercial route linking Piazza del Grano and Piazza Duomo, they once served as the beating heart of Merano. With over 400 metres in length, they are the longest arcades in South Tyrol, and today they blend tradition and modernity.

The arcades offer a fascinating architectural experience, taking you from Gothic to neoclassical façades. Their winding alleys, steep stairs, and shaded arches tell stories of times gone by. Beneath the arches, where lively trade once took place, you'll now find charming shops, cosy cafés, and historical buildings.

The distinction between the mountain and water arcades, combined with the perfect blend of historical and modern elements, gives the arcades a unique charm. Strolling through the Laubengasse feels like a journey into the past – yet remains vibrant and contemporary.

The upper Portici arcades are wheelchair and pushchair accessible. The path has a slight incline (rise) from piazza del Grano square towards piazza Duomo square.

There is no tactile guidance system or other aids for blind people under the arcades.

We suggest using public transportation. From the train station, the most convenient option is to board one of the city lines (1, 4, or 5) to reach the "Merano, piazza Teatro" stop, followed by a brief 5-minute walk to the Portici Arcades.

We suggest bringing along a reusable water bottle, easily refillable at the fountains conveniently placed along the route. Water flows in the drinking fountains from spring to autumn. Depending on the weather and temperatures, the fountains are in operation from the beginning/middle of April to the middle/end of October.

There are reserved parking spaces for people with disabilities in via Galilei street and upper corso Libertà street. Please note that this is a traffic-calmed zone. Entry to this zone is only permitted if you have deposited your disabled parking permit and your car's licence plate number with the local council Gemeinde Meran in advance. We would also like to note that the Merano Market occurs in the upper corso Libertà street on Saturdays until 2 pm (from March to October), making parking unavailable during this period.

Bicycle parking spaces are located in corso Libertà street at the junction with via Cassa di Risparmio street and in via Galilei street in front of the town hall. Take care not to park bicycles and e-rollers carelessly. They can pose a danger to blind and visually impaired people as they create obstacles to safely walking along paths and finding entrances. People in wheelchairs and parents with pushchairs can also be hindered by carelessly parked bicycles. Please use the bicycle parking spaces provided.

Please note: via Cassa di Risparmio street and via Galilei street up to the Princes Castle are exclusively pedestrian zones from 10 am to 6.30 pm - bicycles must be pushed.