We have an enchanting full day tour to recommend that offers an itinerary with a little sampling of the best of the Veneto region.
Avventure Bellissime’s popular Small Group Hill Towns of Veneto Trip is a breathtaking diversion into this region, one of 20 regions in the country, with an English-speaking driver-guide in a comfortable Mercedes minivan or similar make. Venice is the capital of the Veneto region, which has been an important presence culturally and economically for hundreds of years.
This beautiful region in the Italian northeast is richly decorated in both natural and man-made treasures. The varied landscape ranges from the Venetian lagoon near the Adriatic Sea to rolling hills dotted with world-renowned vineyards and stretching up into the magnificent Dolomites mountain range. The hillside cities boast examples of fine architecture dating back to medieval times as well as inspired artwork that has in many cases long outlasted the artists behind the creations.
The small group allows for a self-directed pace that isn’t hurried, giving everyone time to enjoy the sights and scenery and explore every destination. Our carefully selected licensed driver-guides are entertaining, knowledgeable, and personable.
This day tour takes you to three incredible hillside towns:
Medieval Marostica
When you first catch a glimpse of this walled town you could easily imagine you have traveled back in time. This once fortified city now welcomes visitors to its fortified castle, museums, charming main town square, and network of quaint streets. Not only is this region known for the sparkling Prosecco wine, but also for a type of cherries so unique to this area they’ve been given a protected geographical indication (PGI). This is why you’ll shops stocked with cherry jams, preserves, liqueurs, and grappas.
If you are lucky enough to travel here in September of an even year (like this year!) you might be able to catch one of the renowned and theatrical living chess game on the huge chess board in the main square. This lively game features costumed human chess pieces who enact a legendary match to determine the fate of a young maiden. The stunning view from this town out over the hillside is as relaxing as it is memorable.
Bassano del Grappa
Nestled at the foothills of the Dolomites mountain range you will come to another walled town that is not a common destination for most Italian tours. This town, off the beaten path as they say, feels more like a destination for locals than it does for tourists. Experience the bustle of real Italian life as you wander through Bassano Del Grappa’s narrow, aged streets and stroll through the various town squares. Your experienced tour guide will be able to point out not only the still visible evidence of trenches and tunnels that date back to the First World War.
There are many opportunities to stop and enjoy a sample of local cuisine in cafes and restaurants and countless museums to enjoy, including the Museo della Ceramica, dedicated to the rich history of Italian ceramics. Perhaps one of the most intriguing architectural sites here is a remarkable wooden bridge spanning the Brenta River called the Ponte Degli Alpini (but also known as the Ponte Vecchio) that dates to 1209.
As you explore Bassano del Grappa there are countless spots to stop and enjoy the view of the countryside all around. There are many local specialties to enjoy as you peruse the shops and eateries, including locally made ceramics, porcini mushrooms, and of course a taste of the alcoholic beverage, a brandy known as grappa.