We’re here to help!
We’ve collected and answered the most frequently asked questions in detail. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, we’d love to hear from you — just give us a call at (+39 0473 255600) or send us an email.
Fragen zu Ihrem Aufenthalt
Are dogs allowed in the Gardens of Trauttmansdorff Castle?
No, dogs of any size – and other animals – are not permitted inside the Gardens, even if carried in boxes, backpacks or bags. There are several reasons for this: with an average of around 2,000 visitors per day, allowing dogs would soon mean hundreds of animals on site. A visit can last several hours, during which dogs also have their own needs. We do not have the staff capacity to ensure daily checks and cleanliness throughout the entire area. Hygiene is also an important consideration: our gardeners work with their hands in the soil every day, and we must guarantee them a clean and safe working environment. Moreover, dog urine damages plant roots over time.
The flowerbeds are located right next to the paths, without large grassy buffer zones, and the paths themselves are narrow. This means that people who are afraid of dogs, small children, and other dog owners would have no way to avoid close encounters.
In addition, many animal species live freely within the Gardens and would be placed under constant stress by the presence of dogs.
Exception: assistance dogs are permitted.
Where can I buy tickets?
Tickets can be purchased online or directly at the ticket counters on site. There are no daily visitor limits.
With an online ticket, you can enter the Gardens and the Touriseum via a dedicated entrance, skipping any queue at the ticket desk.
Are there waiting times?
Even during peak periods such as Easter, May and August, waiting times are generally short. In cases of high visitor numbers, there may be brief queues at the ticket counters, usually no longer than about 15 minutes.
The busiest hours are between 10:30 AM and 1:00 PM.
Are there lockers?
Yes, in the Visitor Centre next to the shop there are 16 small and 2 large lockers. A €1 coin deposit is required to store bags, backpacks or helmets.
The Touriseum also offers 10 additional lockers.
Locker dimensions – Visitor Centre:
• Small: width 36.5 cm – depth 39.5 cm – height 47.0 cm
• Large: width 36.5 cm – depth 39.5 cm – height 94.0 cm
Touriseum: width 50.0 cm – depth 48.0 cm – height 35.0 cm
What happens to lost property?
Lost items are collected at Cash Desk 1 in the Visitor Centre.
You can also contact us by phone (+39 0473 255 600) or email (info@trauttmansdorff.it
) with a description of the item, and we will check whether it has been handed in.
Which types of transport are allowed in the Gardens of Trauttmansdorff Castle?
Only mobility aids required for the visit – such as wheelchairs and/or electric vehicles for people with disabilities – are permitted.
All other types of transport are not allowed inside the Gardens, as the paths are narrow and in some places steep.
Not permitted: balance bikes or tricycles for children, scooters, carts, bicycles, children’s bikes, inline skates, roller skates, skateboards, e-scooters, Segways and similar devices.
What should I do in case of bad weather?
The Gardens of Trauttmansdorff Castle are well worth a visit even in the rain! In case of bad weather, you can find shelter in several spots: the Glasshouse, the special exhibition in the Coach House, the Grotto, the Botanical Underworld, the Tube Cottage, the Touriseum and the Castle itself.
The Schlossgarten Restaurant and the Palm Cafè also offer pleasant indoor dining options.
Guided tours take place in all weather conditions!
Is there drinking water available in the Gardens?
Our tap water is of excellent quality and a valuable, yet limited resource. You can refill your reusable water bottle at designated fountains along the paths.
Please note that each disposable bottle purchased generates waste.
Can I have a picnic in the Gardens?
Yes, there are several rest areas throughout the Gardens, including a covered picnic area with tables and restrooms. Along the paths, you’ll find many benches and scenic spots perfect for a short break or a small picnic.
The meadow near the Geological Mosaic invites visitors to relax and picnic outdoors, while the stone steps by the Water Lily Pond also serve as comfortable seating. Under the vines in the vineyard, you’ll find rustic wooden tables and benches as well as nearby restroom facilities.
Is photography and filming allowed in the Gardens?
Yes, photography and filming for private use are permitted. For any commercial use of images or video material, prior authorisation from the Management is required. Please note that drone flights are strictly prohibited across the entire area.
Can weddings be held in the Gardens of Trauttmansdorff Castle?
No, weddings are not held in the Gardens, as such events would interfere with regular visitor operations. However, wedding photo sessions are welcome: admission is free for the bridal couple, the photographer, and one assistant.
Can I buy plants at the Gardens?
No, there is no plant sales point. However, the Trauttmansdorff Shop in the Visitor Centre offers a wide range of souvenirs and keepsakes to remember your visit.
Are there charging stations for electric cars?
Yes, the charging station is operated by Alperia. It can be used with the following providers or charging cards/apps: MAINGAU Autostrom, Shell Recharge, Plugsurfing, ADAC e-Charge and EnBW mobility+ (“Viellader” tariff).
To reach the station, drive into the main car park, take a ticket, then turn right and continue up to the bus parking area. The charging stations are located behind the bus parking bays. Exit is unrestricted and barrier-free, meaning that electric vehicle drivers can park free of charge.
Questions about the Gardens
Since when have the Gardens of Trauttmansdorff Castle existed?
The Gardens of Trauttmansdorff Castle opened in 2001 after seven years of construction.
Who owns the Gardens?
The Gardens of Trauttmansdorff Castle are a public garden owned by the Autonomous Province of Bolzano – South Tyrol. They were originally developed by the former Estate Administration of the Laimburg Agricultural and Forestry Research Centre and, since 2017, have been managed by the Provincial Real Estate Agency.
How many visitors do the Gardens of Trauttmansdorff Castle welcome each season?
During the garden season, from 1 April to the beginning of November, the Gardens receive around 400,000 visitors, which averages roughly 1,800 guests per day.
Which plant protection products are used for maintenance?
In recent years, the Gardens of Trauttmansdorff Castle have gradually shifted from plant protection to plant strengthening. No plant protection products are used – neither conventional nor organic. Instead, we apply organic fertilisers, plant extracts, compost teas and microorganisms, which enliven the soil and make plants strong and resilient.
Great care is also taken to maintain the natural balance, allowing beneficial and harmful insects to remain in equilibrium.