A thermal bath complex probably isn’t at the top of your list of fun things to do with kids in Italy. However, the Terme Merano is so much more than warm pools to relax in. Locals know – it’s an incredible place to explore with kids! While there is an indoor area with thermal pools, the hit for kids is the outdoor area with plenty of pools, expansive grassy areas, a playground, and more.
You could easily spend an entire day exploring the indoor and outdoor areas and taking dips in all of the different pools, or you could make it a fun 2-hour break from walking around Merano.
I’m a mamma of three kids and we live in Italy and enjoy exploring the Dolomites, including Merano. I’ve been to the Terme Merano on my own, with my parents, and with kids. Yes, it’s a different experience with kids (much more active vs relaxing), but Merano’s thermal baths are always a good idea!
Let’s take a closer look at the 25-pool(!) complex and how to ‘tackle’ it so your day is smooth, stress free, and fun.
Read more about
Dolomites with Kids
Things to Do in Merano with Kids
One Day in Merano with Kids
When to Visit the Terme Merano with Kids
It sounds strange, but the best time to visit Terme Merano is on a hot summer day. That’s because the most kid-friendly part of the complex is the outdoor area with pools that are a normal temperature. Wipe the image of nonni soaking in steaming hot tubs (ok, there is some of that too), and replace it with kids swimming under the sun, surrounded by mountains!
Winter is fine too, but there’s not as much to do for kids because the outdoor area is closed. Kids can still use the indoor area and there is a small children’s pool. I’d say it’s fine for older kids and teens who are a little more ‘chill.’
Why Visit Merano’s Thermal Baths with Kids
Need some convincing?
The outdoor pools are a perfect spot to take a break on a hot day.
It’s easy to combine the Terme Merano with a visit to Merano (the complex is in the center of Merano).
There are kid-friendly pools and areas, especially in the expansive outside area.
You don’t have to put your kids in swim caps (not required, but of course you can if you want to).
There’s a large grassy area for picnics, relaxing, and playing. You can sit in the sun or shade.
It’s a rare opportunity to visit thermal baths in Italy in a family-friendly atmosphere. Usually thermal bath complexes feel a bit ‘stuffy’ and like you need to shush your kids non-stop. Not here.
It’s a European cultural experience!
Why Skip a Visit to the Merano Terme with Kids
You’re visiting in the winter with really active kids (the indoor area isn’t huge and it’s much more ‘chill’ than the outdoor area).
How It Works
STEP 1: Enter the complex and buy your tickets/passes at the cashier. You’ll each get a bracelet. You can rent towels if you need them (plus pay a deposit).
Good To Know: You can reserve your entrance to guarantee entry, but we never have.
STEP 2: Scan your bracelet at the entrance and head downstairs to change.
STEP 3: There are unisex changing booths and lockers you can put your things in. Use your bracelet to close the lockers and reopen them later. There are also smaller lockers for jewelry (it’s advised not to wear jewelry in the baths due to the possibility of tarnishing or discoloration).
Good To Know: If you need a swimsuit, you can buy one in the complex’s shop.
STEP 4: Enter the thermal bath area via the showers (take a shower). There are men’s and women’s entrances. If you have small kids of the opposite sex, you can keep them with you.
Good To Know: You can bring a small bag with you (I do) with snacks, water, etc.
STEP 5: Enjoy the indoor baths or head straight to the outdoor area!
Good To Know: Photography is not allowed at the pools unless it’s a shot focused on your kids/group. They take privacy very seriously.
STEP 6: When it’s time to leave, turn in your towels (if you’ve rented them) and scan your bracelet to exit into the lobby. Turn your bracelet in and pay for parking if you’re in the parking garage below the Terme.
What to Do at the Terme Merano with Your Kids
Here are some of our favorite parts of the Terme Merano to explore, swim, and play in:
- small current pool (a bit like a fast lazy river)
- big grassy area near the volleyball court
- playground
- children’s pool (best for toddlers and babies; has a mini water slide, little sprinklers, shallow water)
- main pool (not the one for lap swimming)
- turtle pond
- Kneipp paths
- Bubble jet beds and fountains in the main pool indoors
- Walkway into the bio lake (walk, don’t run!)
Eating at the Merano Thermal Baths with Kids
You can bring your own food in and have a picnic on the lawn.
Or, eat at the restaurant or one of the kiosks in the outdoor area. The kiosks have hot dogs, sandwiches, salads, pizza, fries, ice cream bars, cold drinks, etc.
We purchased snacks from the kiosks and had lunch later in Merano.
Tips for Your Visit (Including What to Bring with You)
Be sure to bring:
- swim diapers (for kids in diapers
- sunscreen, towels (if you have them)
- something to put down on the grass (sheet or a couple of muslin cloths)
- swimsuits
- water wings if your child uses them
- snacks and water (you can also buy food and drinks at the kiosks)
- clothes to change into after (if you arrived wearing your swimsuits)
- flip flops or slides for walking around inside and outside
If possible, don’t bring jewelry or valuables.
Do your math with the entrance fees and specials. Also, don’t need to buy full-day pass. On our recent visit we stayed for three hours.
There’s a shop inside with swimsuits, toys, robes, etc.
You can bring a stroller in the outdoor area, which is super helpful if you’ve got a baby or toddler who naps. It’s easiest to enter around the east side entrance but check with the front desk first.
How to Get to the Terme Merano
If you’re already in Merano, you can walk! It’s in the center of town, right on the river.
If you’re coming from outside of Merano, it’s easiest to drive. The most convenient parking garage for the Terme is directly underneath it (it’s called Parcheggio Terme, bring your ticket to the Terme cashier for a small discount). If you plan on spending the day in Merano, you can park at the St. Josef parking garage, which is less expensive and is just a 7-minute walk away from the Terme.
Check out my guides to
Driving in Italy
Driving in the Dolomites
Italian Road Signs
Where to Stay with Kids Near the Terme Merano
There are plenty of hotels, B&Bs and apartments in Merano and its residential areas that would keep you within walking distance of the Terme. Or, stay at the Hotel Therme Meran next door, which is linked by walkway to the Terme.
You could also stay nearby and drive into Merano, park, and visit the Terme (that’s what we like to do).
Read my recommendations for Where to Stay in Merano with Kids
Other Ways to Stay Cool in Merano
If you’re still not sure about the Terme, but need to cool off in Merano:
- Play in the little fountains out in front of the Terme.
- Take your shoes and socks off and do the Kneipp walk by the Kurhaus Playground.
- Swim at the Lido Merano swimming pool.
- Get a gelato at Sabine Gelateria, our favorite spot for the cool treat in Merano!
