“Discovery of Witches” Euganean Hills Tour from Padua

A Tour Inspired by Fantasy: Discovering the Euganean Hills through “A Discovery of Witches”

If you’re a fan of the HBO/Sky TV series A Discovery of Witches, or simply love exploring enchanting Italian landscapes, this 6-hour tour from Padua offers a captivating blend of scenery, history, and storytelling. At €290.36 per person, it’s a slightly premium experience, but one that promises a deeply immersive taste of the Euganean Hills, with visits to picturesque villages like Arquà Petrarca, the historic Monselice, and the majestic Castello di Monselice — all sprinkled with doses of fantasy-inspired romance.

What we particularly love about this tour is its focus on authentic local sights and the way it ties them to the beloved series’ storyline, making the landscape feel alive and relevant. Plus, the wine tasting at a local vineyard offers a delicious conclusion to the day that feels both indulgent and genuine. The intimate group size—up to 8 travelers—ensures a personalized experience, often led by knowledgeable guides who bring the stories and scenery to life.

One potential consideration is that the tour is quite packed — with each stop carefully curated, but also with a full schedule. Travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace or more in-depth exploration might find it swift. However, if you’re eager to see multiple sites and enjoy a mix of sightseeing, history, and wine, this tour hits the sweet spot.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate a thoughtfully crafted itinerary, love picturesque villages, and want a taste of Italy’s scenic countryside with a fantasy twist. It’s ideal for fans of the series, wine lovers, and anyone wanting a comprehensive day outside of Padua that’s rich in both views and storytelling.

Key Points

• Focused on Serie Inspiration: Perfect for fans of A Discovery of Witches looking to connect the series’ scenery with real places.
• Authentic Experiences: Includes visits to medieval villages, a castle, and a vineyard, all offering genuine insight into local life.
• Personalized Group Size: Small group (maximum 8 travelers) ensures a more intimate, engaging experience.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Covers diverse sites—from architecture to landscapes—within a manageable 6-hour window.
• Expert Guidance: Guides are well-informed, sharing curious facts and stories that deepen your understanding.
• Quality Wine Tasting: Local wines paired with cured meats and cheeses create a memorable tasting experience.

Exploring the Euganean Hills Through “A Discovery of Witches”

This tour offers a delightful mix of visual beauty, historical intrigue, and storytelling—perfect for those eager to see how the lush landscapes of Italy inspire fantasy narratives. We’ll start in the enchanting village of Arquà Petrarca, often called Italy’s second most beautiful medieval hamlet. Its narrow streets, ancient stone houses, and serene atmosphere provide a perfect backdrop for imagining the series’ love story between Diana and Matthew.

Arquà Petrarca is a highlight, not just because of its aesthetic appeal but also because of its historical significance. The guide will walk you through the cobbled lanes, sharing stories about the village’s past and its connection to Petrarch, Italy’s renowned poet. The peaceful ambiance makes it easy to understand why this was chosen as a filming location, with its timeless charm.

Next, you’ll head to Monselice, a fortified town that played a key role in the series as the location of the vampire family’s home. The Castello di Monselice, with its imposing walls and castle grounds, is a must-see. As you explore its rooms—adorned with tapestries, armors, and a majestic fireplace—you can almost hear the whispers of the series’ characters. The guide will point out spots where memorable scenes, like the dance of Diana and Matthew, could have been filmed.

The views from Monte Ricco are another highlight, especially if you’re inclined toward a walk or a bit of fresh air. While the tour suggests horseback riding as a backdrop for the series, a walk around the hilltop offers panoramic vistas of the Euganean Hills and nearby vineyards—perfect for a quick outdoor escape and photo opportunities.

The Euganean Hills’ landscape is stunning—volcanic origins have given rise to gentle hills dotted with vineyards, olive groves, castles, and charming villages. The tour’s drive through these scenic routes is as much about appreciating the natural beauty as it is about the fantasy connections.

Finally, the day wraps up at Azienda Agricola Loreggian, where a wine tasting awaits. Surrounded by vineyards, you’ll sample local wines, accompanied by a platter of cold cuts and cheeses. This part of the experience is highly praised in reviews, with some pointing out how the wines are not only good but also reasonably priced—a real treat after a day of sightseeing.

What the Tour Includes and What to Expect

The tour includes admission to Castello di Monselice, a guided walk through Arquà Petrarca, and the wine tasting experience at the vineyard. Transportation is provided, with pick-up options for your convenience, making it easy to relax and enjoy the scenery without worrying about logistics. The small group size fosters more engagement and personalized storytelling, which many travelers value.

The timing is well-structured, with each site allotted enough time to explore without feeling rushed. The two hours at Arquà Petrarca are just enough to soak in its charm, while the hour at Monselice allows a leisurely visit to the castle and its grounds. The wine tasting is also a highlight—local wines paired with regional snacking, creating a genuine taste of the area.

An important aspect that travelers often comment on is the guide’s knowledge. The reviews mention guides like Chiara, who are keen to share curious facts about the land, history, and behind-the-scenes stories, adding depth to the experience.

Authenticity and Value

While the cost of $290.36 might seem high for just six hours, the value comes from the curated experience—visiting real locations that inspired a beloved fantasy series, supplemented with authentic food and wine. The entrance fees are included for the castle, but the overall experience feels more like a curated journey through scenery, story, and local life than just a sightseeing tour.

The fact that the tour is highly booked (average booking 40 days in advance) suggests it offers a sought-after experience, especially among fans of the series or those seeking a memorable day in Italy’s scenic countryside. The small group size enhances the sense of intimacy and personalized attention, making it a worthwhile investment in a day of discovery.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for series fans who want to see the real-life locations that inspired A Discovery of Witches. It also appeals to nature lovers and those curious about medieval villages, castles, and vineyards. Wine enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunity to taste local varieties in a charming setting.

If you’re looking for a relaxed yet engaging day that combines scenic beauty, history, and a dash of fantasy, this tour ticks all the boxes. However, if your priority is extensive sightseeing or a slow pace, you might find it a bit brisk.

Final Thoughts

This Discovery of Witches tour offers a thoughtfully curated experience that balances fantasy inspiration with authentic Italian scenery. The combination of picturesque villages, a historic castle, stunning hilltop views, and a wine tasting makes it an ideal choice for travelers wanting a mix of culture, landscape, and storytelling in just a few hours.

It’s a great value for fans of the series or those seeking a charming day outside Padua. The knowledgeable guides, dedicated itinerary, and intimate group size ensure you’ll come away with a deeper appreciation of the landscape and a few memorable stories to tell.

If you’re eager to walk through the series’ imagined world while enjoying Italy’s scenic treasures, this tour will delight you.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes transportation from Padua, with pick-up options available, making it convenient for travelers to relax and enjoy the scenery without the hassle of driving.

What’s the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, with each site scheduled to give enough time to explore without feeling rushed.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
Most travelers can participate, and since the group is small, it’s suitable for families who enjoy walking and sightseeing, though some sites may involve moderate walking.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially if you plan to walk around villages or the castle. Bringing water and sun protection is also wise, especially on sunny days.

Does the tour include wine tasting?
Yes, you’ll enjoy a wine tasting at a local vineyard, with local wines, cheeses, and cold cuts included in the experience.

In summary, this “Discovery of Witches” tour in the Euganean Hills is an engaging way to combine Italy’s scenic beauty with the magic of a beloved series. It’s perfect for those who love authentic landscapes, historic sites, and a taste of local wine—all wrapped in a well-organized, personalized journey.