Vicenza isn’t just famous for its stunning architecture and Palladian villas; it’s also a fantastic base for exploring wine culture in Italy’s Veneto region. Unlike sprawling vineyards far from town, many Vicenza wine tours focus on intimate experiences, like visiting historic villas or tasting local sparkling wines, making for memorable outings. We particularly love the Visit with Owners and Glass of Wine to Villa Valmarana ai Nani, because it combines art, history, and wine in a setting that feels like stepping back in time. Walking through the villa’s frescoed halls and gardens, with a glass of local wine in hand, offers a unique glimpse into Italy’s artistic and aristocratic past. Plus, the personal touch of visiting owners adds a warm, authentic flavor to the experience.
If you’re short on time but want a taste of Veneto’s sparkling wines, the Tour and Tasting of Sparkling Wines in Valeggio offers a quick, fun introduction. For a more in-depth, personal experience, the Valeggio: Sorsi d’Estate, 3 young wines with guided tour is perfect, especially if you like a relaxed, intimate setting with passionate owners. These tours showcase the best of Veneto’s local wine traditions, from historic cellars to small family-run wineries, making Vicenza a surprisingly rich destination for wine lovers.
1. Visit with Owners and Glass of Wine to Villa Valmarana ai Nani
At number one on our list is the Visit with Owners and a Glass of Wine to Villa Valmarana ai Nani. This tour offers an excellent blend of art, history, and wine, all wrapped up in a 17th-century villa still owned by the Valmarana family. The highlight is the private tour of the villa’s frescoes by the Tiepolos, which are considered masterpieces of 18th-century Italian art. The guide will explain the mythological and allegorical stories depicted on the walls, making the art accessible and engaging.
The villa’s gardens and panoramic landscapes are just as impressive, providing perfect spots to enjoy your complimentary glass of local wine while soaking in the scenery. The tour lasts from 45 minutes to about 1 hour 10 minutes, making it a manageable but unforgettable experience. Visitors rave about the personal, intimate atmosphere created by the villa’s continuous family ownership, which adds a layer of warmth that’s often missing from larger, commercial tours. The only drawback is that admission isn’t included, so budget accordingly.
Bottom Line: If you love art, history, and a personal touch, this tour strikes a perfect balance, offering a unique glimpse into Italy’s aristocratic heritage combined with a relaxing wine moment.
$347.58 per group (up to 5)
2. Tour and Tasting of Sparkling Wines in Valeggio
Number two on our list is the Tour and Tasting of Sparkling Wines in Valeggio. This experience is ideal for those curious about Italy’s sparkling wines, especially from Lake Garda. The tour takes you from the vineyard to the cellar, where you’ll learn about the Classic and Charmat production methods, with a focus on what makes each technique unique.
You’ll taste three different sparkling wines paired with cold cuts and cheeses, making this a lively, flavorful experience. It’s a straightforward, 90-minute activity, perfect for visitors who want a quick but quality introduction to Veneto’s bubbly offerings. The guide’s knowledge and enthusiasm make the process accessible, even for those new to sparkling wine. What makes this tour stand out is its focus on local terroir and production techniques, giving you insight into Veneto’s rich wine culture beyond just the tasting.
Reviews praise this experience for its value for money and engaging presentation. It’s particularly suited for travelers with a casual interest in wine or those on a tight schedule. However, keep in mind that it’s a tasting experience—so don’t expect a full winery tour or extensive cellar visit.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a fun, taste-focused peek into Veneto’s sparkling wine scene, perfect for casual wine lovers or as a quick afternoon activity.
$34.91 per person
3. Valeggio: Sorsi d’Estate, 3 Young Wines with Guided Tour
For those who want a more personal connection, Valeggio: Sorsi d’Estate provides an engaging guided tour led by the winery owners themselves. This experience combines a visit to an 18th-century barrique cellar with a tasting of three young, vibrant wines, all within the peaceful setting of Fornello village.
The owners share stories and insights into wine-making traditions, making this tour particularly appealing for wine enthusiasts interested in the history and craft behind each bottle. The intimate size of the group ensures personalized attention, and the experience includes a careful discussion of any dietary needs or questions. The tour lasts about 2 hours, giving ample time to savor each glass and learn about the local wine scene directly from the makers.
Guests frequently mention the passion and knowledge of the owners, which elevates the experience beyond just tasting. The setting, away from busy tourist spots, adds to its charm, making it ideal for travelers seeking authenticity. The only downside is that it requires a bit more time and may be less convenient for those on a tight schedule.
Bottom Line: If you enjoy personal stories and engaging conversations about wine, this guided experience offers an authentic peek into Veneto’s wine-making traditions, with an added cultural bonus.
$44.20 per person
How to Choose the Right Wine Tour in Vicenza
When selecting a wine tour, consider your budget, time, and interests. For art lovers, the Villa Valmarana tour offers a blend of frescoes and history, while the sparkling wine tasting in Valeggio provides a lively, casual experience perfect for a quick taste of Veneto’s bubbly traditions. The Sorsi d’Estate tour is your best bet if you want a personalized, in-depth look into local winemaking with the owners themselves.
If you’re short on time, the Valeggio sparkling wine tour maximizes flavor and insight in just under two hours. For those seeking a deeper connection to local traditions and a more relaxed pace, the Sorsi d’Estate experience offers a memorable, intimate visit.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak seasons, to secure spots in these popular tours. Consider also what kind of experience you prefer—whether it’s art, bubbly, or personal storytelling—and choose accordingly.
Final Thoughts
Vicenza’s wine scene offers surprising diversity for such a small city. From the art-filled frescoed halls of Villa Valmarana to the lively sparkling wine tastings at Valeggio and the intimate conversations with winemakers, there’s something for every wine enthusiast. For a well-rounded trip, try to sample at least two different experiences—perhaps pairing the cultural richness of the villa with the bubbly fun of Valeggio.
Remember, early booking can help you lock in your preferred tours and times. Whether you’re after a historical immersion, a quick sparkling fix, or a personal connection with local winemakers, Vicenza’s wine tours promise genuine, flavorful adventures that go far beyond the typical vineyard visit.