Valpolicella Travel Guide

Discover the top things to do, places to visit, food to try, and where to stay in Valpolicella, Italy.


Valpolicella Travel Guide

Valpolicella is a picturesque province located in the region of Veneto, Northeast Italy. For wine lovers, it is renowned for its excellent production of premium wines such as Amarone, Ripasso, and Valpolicella Classico. Surrounded by lush vineyards, stunning landscapes, and a rich cultural heritage, Valpolicella is a hidden gem that is slowly gaining popularity among travelers. In this travel guide, we will highlight some of the top things to do, places to visit, food to try, and where to stay in Valpolicella.

List of Places to Visit in Valpolicella

Valpolicella is a treasure trove of cultural and natural attractions. From museums to outdoor adventures, here are some of the must-visit places in Valpolicella:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Museo Archeologico di Verona: Located in the historical center of Verona, this museum is home to an impressive collection of Roman artifacts and mosaics.
  • Museo Nicolis: A private museum that showcases a wide range of antique cars, motorcycles, musical instruments, and mechanical objects.
  • Basilica di San Zeno Maggiore: A beautiful 11th century Romanesque church that is known for its intricate bronze doors and stunning frescoes.
  • Castello di Montorio: A medieval castle that offers a spectacular view of the surrounding landscape.

Natural Attractions of Valpolicella: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Parco delle Cascate di Molina: A natural park that contains a series of waterfalls, caves, and lush forests. Perfect for hiking enthusiasts.
  • Lake Garda: The largest lake in Italy that is surrounded by charming towns, beaches, and picturesque landscapes.
  • Monte Baldo: A mountain range located in the province of Verona, that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Valpolicella

Valpolicella is an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts who are looking for a challenging hike or bike ride. Here are some of the best hiking and biking trails in Valpolicella:

  • The Valpolicella Wine Route: A scenic bike route that takes you through the vineyards, olive groves, and picturesque villages.
  • Monte Baldo: A popular hiking destination that offers various hiking trails of different levels of difficulty.
  • Lessinia: A natural park located in the Lessinia Mountains, that offers a wide range of hiking and biking trails.

Best Things to Do in Valpolicella: Activities and Tours

Valpolicella is a destination that has something for everyone. From wine tastings to cooking classes, here are some of the best activities and tours to try in Valpolicella:

  • Wine Tastings: Valpolicella is known for its excellent wines such as Amarone, Ripasso, and Valpolicella Classico. A wine tour is a must-do activity in Valpolicella.
  • Truffle Hunting: For foodies, truffle hunting tours are a great way to experience the local cuisine and learn about the history of truffles in Valpolicella.
  • Cooking Classes: Learn to cook authentic Italian dishes using local ingredients with a cooking class in Valpolicella.

Week-Long Itinerary for Valpolicella

Here is a sample itinerary for a week-long trip to Valpolicella:

Day Activity
1 Arrival in Valpolicella, check into your hotel, and explore the city of Verona
2 Visit the Museo Archeologico di Verona, followed by wine tasting at a local winery
3 Go on a biking tour of the Valpolicella wine route, and enjoy a picnic lunch in the vineyards
4 Visit the Parco delle Cascate di Molina and indulge in some truffle hunting
5 Take a cooking class in Valpolicella, and learn to cook an authentic Italian meal
6 Explore Lake Garda and Monte Baldo
7 Departure from Valpolicella.

Food and Drink Scene of Valpolicella

Valpolicella is known for its outstanding food and wine. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages in Valpolicella:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bigoli: A traditional pasta dish made with whole-wheat flour and served with a meat sauce.
  • Gnocchi: A potato-based pasta that is served with different sauces, such as cheese and truffle sauce.
  • Tiramisu: A classic Italian dessert that is made with ladyfingers, coffee, and mascarpone cheese.

Local Beverages

  • Amarone: A full-bodied red wine that is made from dried grapes.
  • Ripasso: A red wine that is made by fermenting Valpolicella wine with grape skins from Amarone.
  • Grappa: A grape-distilled spirit that is an excellent digestive after a meal.

Where to Stay in Valpolicella: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Valpolicella offers a variety of accommodation options to fit any budget. From luxury hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts, here are some accommodation recommendations in Valpolicella:

  • Villa Quaranta Park Hotel: A luxurious hotel that offers an outdoor pool, a spa, and a fitness center.
  • Agriturismo Le Bianchette: A charming bed and breakfast that is located in the heart of the Valpolicella wine country.
  • Hotel San Luca: A modern hotel that is located in the city center of Verona.

What to Buy in Valpolicella: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Valpolicella is home to several wonderful handmade local products that make perfect souvenirs for your friends or family. Some of the popular local products in Valpolicella include:

  • Olive oil
  • Truffles
  • Handmade shoes
  • Handcrafted leather bags and accessories

Local Culture and Customs of Valpolicella

Valpolicella is a region rich in customs and traditions. Here are some cultural tips to keep in mind:

  • Tipping is not customary in Valpolicella.
  • In restaurants, it is polite to say “buon appetito” to your fellow diners as a way of wishing them a good meal.
  • When greeting people, it is appropriate to shake hands or offer a friendly embrace.

Best Time to Visit Valpolicella

The best time to visit Valpolicella is in the spring (April to June) or fall (September to November) when the weather is pleasant, and the vineyards are in full bloom. These months are perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and wine tours.

Do’s and Don’ts of Valpolicella

Do:

  • Learn some basic Italian phrases before visiting Valpolicella.
  • Dress appropriately when visiting churches or other religious buildings.
  • Try the local cuisine and wine.

Don’t:

  • Try not to be late when meeting someone in Valpolicella. Punctuality is highly valued in Italian culture.
  • Avoid wearing beachwear or revealing clothing in public areas.
  • Don’t order a cappuccino after 11 A.M., it a breakfast drink in Italy.

Safety and Health

Safety in Valpolicella

Valpolicella is a safe destination for travelers. However, as with any destination, it is essential to practice basic safety precautions such as keeping your valuables safe and being aware of your surroundings.

Health in Valpolicella

The health care system in Valpolicella is of high quality. It is important to have travel insurance to cover medical emergencies and unexpected illnesses.

Getting to Valpolicella: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Valpolicella

  • Verona Villafranca Airport (VRN) - located less than 20km from Valpolicella.

Bus Stations Near Valpolicella

  • Verona Porta Nuova - is the main bus station in Verona with daily buses to Valpolicella.

Other Options

Other options for getting to Valpolicella include renting a car or hiring a private driver.

How to Get Around in Valpolicella

The best way to get around Valpolicella is by car, but if you are not renting one, hiring a taxi or going on a guided tour of the region is the best option.

Where to Go Next from Valpolicella: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Valpolicella is conveniently located near several nearby destinations where you can continue your Italian adventure, including:

  • Verona: A beautiful historic city known for its Roman amphitheater and Juliet’s balcony.
  • Venice: The floating city of Venice is just a two-hour drive from Valpolicella.
  • Lake Garda: The largest lake in Italy is just a short drive from Valpolicella, and it’s worth a trip on its own.

Conclusion

Valpolicella is an Italian destination that is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you are a wine lover, a foodie, or an outdoor enthusiast, there is something for everyone in Valpolicella. We hope this travel guide helps you plan your trip to Valpolicella and enhances your overall travel experience in Italy.

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