Asolo
Set among lush, rolling hills with views virtually unchanged since the 17th century, Asolo is one of Italy’s most enchanting medieval towns.
Once home to the refined Renaissance court of Caterina Cornaro, Queen of Cyprus, Asolo has long attracted writers, artists and travellers drawn to its quiet beauty and timeless atmosphere. Poets called it “the city of a hundred horizons”, a place where light, landscape and history meet in perfect harmony.
Things to Do in Asolo
Explore the historic centre
Wander through arcaded streets, small piazzas and perfectly preserved medieval corners. Asolo is best experienced slowly, without a plan.
Climb the Civic Tower
Once part of Caterina Cornaro’s castle, the Civic Tower offers a breathtaking 360° view over the surrounding hills.
Visit the Rocca di Asolo
Perched above the town, the medieval fortress offers panoramic views and a quiet sense of history.
Walk the Sentiero degli Ezzelini
A scenic footpath connecting Asolo to nearby hill villages. Ideal for a gentle hike with sweeping views over vineyards and countryside.
Where to Eat
Due Mori: historic Venetian trattoria serving traditional cuisine in a warm, timeless setting.
Favilla: refined contemporary bistrot on Asolo’s main square, focused on seasonal Italian cooking.
Bistrot Rosmarino at Villa Cipriani: elegant garden bistrot with panoramic views, offering light Italian dishes and sunset aperitivi.
Osteria alla Baracca: a traditional osteria celebrated for authentic Venetian recipes and sweeping views over the surrounding countryside.
Prosecco Hills & Wineries
The Prosecco Hills - UNESCO World Heritage Site
Asolo lies at the heart of the Prosecco DOCG area, recognised by UNESCO for its extraordinary cultural landscape of vineyards and gentle hills. Aperitivo here is not simply a ritual, it is a way of life.
Recommended winery: Villa Sandi
A magnificent 17th-century Palladian-style villa, once frequented by Antonio Canova. Guided visits include the historic winery and impressive underground galleries used during both World Wars. Tastings are available upon request, the candlelight experience in the cellars is truly unforgettable.
Nearby Places to Explore
Palladian Villas - UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Designed by Andrea Palladio in the mid-16th century and adorned with extraordinary frescoes by Paolo Veronese. Still privately inhabited, it retains the atmosphere of a lived-in home.
Villa Emo – Fanzolo di Vedelago
Another masterpiece by Palladio, commissioned by Leonardo Emo. A perfect expression of Renaissance harmony between architecture and landscape. Part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996.
Canova’s Legacy
Gypsotheca Canova Museum – Possagno
Home to the world’s largest collection of plaster models by Antonio Canova. Partially redesigned by Carlo Scarpa, the museum culminates in the striking Hall of Mirrors. Its candlelight visits are internationally renowned.
Designed by Canova himself as his artistic testament, inspired by the Pantheon in Rome. Climbing the steps at the foot of Monte Grappa is a powerful and moving experience.
Bassano del Grappa
Spend a day in this lively historic town. Visit the Museo Civico to discover the artistic legacy of the Da Ponte family, then cross the iconic wooden bridge designed by Andrea Palladio. Stop for a traditional grappa at Grapperia Nardini, visit the Ceramic Museum, and enjoy lunch at Ristorante Birraria Ottone.
Follina
At the foothills of the Pre-Alps lies the small village of Follina. Its 13th-century Basilica and cloister, still inhabited by monks of the Servi di Maria order, are among the finest examples of Gothic architecture in the Veneto region. For dining, Osteria al Castelletto da Clemi is a celebrated local institution, renowned throughout the Veneto for its exceptional cuisine and charming interiors.
