Best things to do in Bassano del Grappa
Hey there, wanderlust seekers! Today, we're taking a trip to the quaint town of Bassano del Grappa, located in the heart of northern Italy, at the foot of Monte Grappa and one of the best places to visit near Venice. If you are planning a journey to visit Bassano or if you just want to spend a day in this old town, here is the best travel guide that tells you the things you can’t miss!
First thing to know is: Bassano del Grappa is situated at the foot of the Venetian Prealps, in the Veneto region of Italy. Its strategic position along the Brenta River has made it a vital hub for trade and commerce throughout history. Its location between the cities of Venice, Treviso, Padua and Vicenza has made it a meeting point for traders, artists and travelers, contributing to its rich history and vibrant culture.
This charming town offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. But know, let’s talk about what you can do in this town!
Exploring Bassano: the must see attractions in Bassano del Grappa
Ponte Vecchio degli Alpini
This is the town’s most iconic symbol and Unesco World Heritage. The Ponte Vecchio is an elegant covered wooden bridge designed by the famous architect Andrea Palladio in 1569. It spans the river “Fiume Brenta” and offers a stunning view of the surrounding countryside. During the First World War, Bassano was designated a war zone. The name of the bridge, “Ponte degli Alpini”, was given in memory of the countless soldiers who fell during the war. In fact, after the defeat of Caporetto the city suddenly found itself on the front line fighting. But it was during the Second World War that Bassano experienced its most tragic event: 31 soldiers were hanged in the trees of Viale dei Martiri. Speaking of, at the end of this historic avenue you can see the Castello degli Ezzelini, a medieval fortification and the main residence of the Da Romano family.
Grapperia Nardini
Talking about more fun stuff, at the entrance of the Ponte Vecchio degli Alpini is the Grapperia Nardini, the most famous distillery in town, founded in 1779. Here you can enjoy an exquisite Mezzo e Mezzo, made from the combination of red vermouth, rhubarb liqueur and soda water. Or, if you don’t like it, you can enjoy the best grappa in Veneto!
Distilleria Poli
An alternative is the Poli grappa, one of the most famous grappa in the province of Vicenza. And if you want to take a tour in Venice, which is very well connected to Bassano, you can visit the Museo della grappa, known as the Poli distillery museum. After visiting the museum, you can enjoy the Venice lagoon, world famous for its beauty!
Palazzo Sturm
It is located in the heart of Bassano and was originally constructed in the 15th century. It is a beautiful structure that blends elements of Renaissance and Baroque architecture. Today, Palazzo Sturm houses the Museo Civico, a museum in Bassano that tells the history of the city. In this museum you can find a section dedicated to Antonio Canova that contains three thousand autograph drawings, sketches, plaster casts, and the monochrome series. One of the palace’s most enchanting features is the terrace, offering a panoramic view of the Brenta River and the Ponte Vecchio. In the middle of the terrace you can also admire the shiny rhinoceros made of stainless steel.
Libreria Palazzo Roberti
Housed within the elegant building Palazzo Roberti, the bookstore offers a unique blend of literary classics and architectural splendor. The ambiance is quiet and the visitors can lose themselves amidst the pages while surrounded by the timeless beauty of the palace's interior. Beyond its literary offerings, the Libreria Palazzo Roberti also is a cultural hub, hosting literary events, book signings and exhibitions.
Piazza Garibaldi e Piazza Libertà
These two squares stand as focal points in the historical center of Bassano del Grappa. Piazza Garibaldi, named in honor of the Italian revolutionary hero Giuseppe Garibaldi and surrounded by elegant buildings, is a bustling hub of activity, alive with the chatter of locals and the laughter of visitors. In the center of the square you will be able to see a beautiful fountain, and next to it is the church of San Francesco. Meanwhile, Piazza Libertà is the main square of the city. Here you can find the church of San Giovanni Battista, an historical late baroque monument. It also has lots of shops and cafés, where you can take a break from your walk or visit the town.
Palazzo delle Misture
The Palace of Mixtures cocktail bar is a real officina del gusto in Bassano del Grappa, particularly for those looking for a cool and stylish spot to sit and relax. It is a chic place where you can try different and very creative cocktails, including local bitters. Whether you go during the day or at night, rest assured you’ll have fun and taste some special drinks.
Ristorante Birraria Ottone
This restaurant is a piece of history in the heart of the city. If you are staying in Bassano, you cannot miss this place to eat. Ristorante Birraria Ottone is one of the best restaurants in Bassano. It is located in front of the commune and here you can enjoy the typical flavors of Venetian cuisine, immersed in an incredible atmosphere.
But wait, there's more! Bassano del Grappa isn't just about its own charms. It’s also the perfect base for exploring the surrounding area. Just a short drive away, you'll find the medieval town of Cittadella, with its impressive defensive walls and cobblestone streets. And let's not forget about Castelfranco Veneto, birthplace of the renowned Renaissance painter Giorgione, whose works can be admired in the town's cathedral.
Another gem in Veneto near Bassano is Marostica, the town in the province of Vincenza known for the Chess Square. In addition, within walking distance of the town you can visit the museums of ceramics in Nove. Last but not least, make sure to pay a visit to the hilltop town of Asolo. Known as the "Pearl of Veneto," Asolo boasts stunning views of the surrounding vineyards and olive groves, as well as a rich cultural heritage dating back to Roman times.
Of course there are many other things to see in Bassano and in the towns surrounding it, which we cannot name all! But if you search for an itinerary, a digital travel planner can do the job for you. GetTripTip.com will create the best Bassano itinerary for you!
And if all this talk of exploring has got you thinking about where to stay, look no further than Hopstays! Whether you're planning to stay only one night or more, Hopstays has got you covered with a wide range of accommodation options to suit every request.
So there you have it - a taste of what awaits you in the charming town of Bassano del Grappa and its surrounding treasures. Whether you're a history buff, an art enthusiast, or simply a lover of beautiful landscapes, this hidden gem in northern Italy is sure to steal your heart!
