Padua might not be the first Italian city that comes to mind when thinking of wine, but this university city is a fantastic base for exploring some of Veneto’s most intriguing wine experiences. Thanks to its proximity to the Euganean Hills, a volcanic landscape bursting with vineyards and olive groves, Padua offers a delicious mix of tasting opportunities and cultural sites. Among the many options, we particularly love tours that combine local history with authentic tasting, such as the From Abano Montegrotto Olive Oil & Wine in the Euganean Hills, which pairs a visit to a historic olive oil mill with a tour of a charming winery—perfect for those who want to deepen their understanding of regional produce.
If you’re pressed for time but still want a memorable sip of Veneto, the Padua Wine Tasting Walk offers a quick, guided stroll through the city’s best wine bars and gourmet shops. For something more immersive, the From Padua, Wine Tour in the Euganean Hills takes you into the heart of the volcanic hills with visits to two renowned wineries. Whether you prefer a relaxed tasting or a full-day adventure, Padua’s wine tours deliver authentic flavors with a side of regional charm.
1. From Abano Montegrotto Olive Oil & Wine in the Euganean Hills
Starting from the famed Abano Montegrotto Spas, this tour immerses you in the heart of the Euganean Hills’ agricultural excellence. You’ll visit a traditional olive oil mill, where producers will demonstrate the process of extracting oil from olives—an art that’s been refined over generations. Tasting the final product directly from the producers adds a personal touch that’s hard to beat.
Next, you’ll head to a local winery, where the passionate wine maker will introduce you to the region’s distinctive wines, often created from volcanic soil that lends complexity and minerality to the wines. The tour includes stops at the Castello del Catajo, a historic rural palace with roots dating back to 1570, and the Garden of Valsanzibio, one of Italy’s most beautiful gardens. The reviews praise the well-explained olive oil process and the passion of the young winery owner, making this a perfect choice for those who want to combine scenic sights with authentic wine and olive oil tastings.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded tour showcasing regional agriculture, history, and high-quality tastings—ideal for travelers who want a deeper dive into Veneto’s local products.
2. Winery Tour & Tasting on Padua Hills
For those short on time, the Winery Tour & Tasting on Padua Hills offers an intimate look at local wine production in less than an hour. Located near an ancient medieval village, this tour guides you through the vineyards and the cellar where the magic happens. You’ll get to taste four main labels, each paired with cheeses and cured meats, giving you an excellent sense of Veneto’s diverse wine styles.
The highlight is the chance to see the production process up close — from the vineyard walk to the barrel room visit. The owner, described as very knowledgeable and friendly, takes the time to explain what makes Veneto wines unique, especially how the region’s climate and soil influence flavor. Past visitors note it as the “best winery tour ever,” praising the generous tasting and the passionate guide.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a quick, authentic wine experience with excellent local pairings, especially if you’re exploring Padua and want a taste of what the hills have to offer.
3. From Padua, Wine Tour in the Euganean Hills
This full-day tour takes you into the volcanic Euganean Hills, about 5 hours of exploring wineries and historic sites. Starting from Padua, the trip includes visits to two renowned wineries with tastings of white and red wines like Serprino, Durello, and Raboso—each expressing the volcanic soil’s influence.
The tour’s strength lies in its balance: visiting Castello del Catajo, a grand estate surrounded by grounds that echo local history, and a boutique winery where the owners are eager to share their passion. The volcanic terroir makes Veneto wines stand out, and this tour makes sure you’ll get an appreciation for the region’s variety and quality. The reviews mention the “beautiful scenery” and well-paced itinerary, making it a great option for those who want a comprehensive experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for wine lovers who have a bit more time and want to explore both historic landmarks and authentic wineries in the Euganean Hills.
4. Padua Wine Tasting Walk
If you’re after a short, city-centered experience, the Padua Wine Tasting Walk is perfect. In around 2 hours, you’ll visit several of Padua’s top wine bars and gourmet shops, sampling four wines from the Tri-Veneto region, paired with tasty appetizers.
This tour is designed for those wanting to learn about Italian wines in a relaxed setting. The stops include a cozy osteria and a well-curated wine shop, with the guide sharing stories about the wines’ origins and ideal pairings. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to combine wine tasting with some city sightseeing, finishing in Piazza delle Erbe, a lively square with markets and cafes. Reviewers love the informative narration and delicious pairings.
Bottom Line: Ideal for a quick, educational experience with a focus on Veneto’s urban wine culture and local eating spots.
5. From Padua: Olive Oil & Wine in the Euganean Hills
Similar to the first tour but slightly shorter, this olive oil and wine tour offers a comprehensive half-day adventure. It starts from Padua and includes visits to a traditional olive oil mill and a local winery, with the producers eager to showcase their craft. The tour emphasizes the region’s culinary identity, highlighting both oil and wine production.
Past visitors mention the “lovely scenery,” “excellent winery,” and a friendly guide, although some found the olive oil tour less elaborate. Still, the overall experience scores highly for product quality and regional authenticity. The wine tasting is highlighted as a real treat, with the owners being very hospitable.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers who want a balanced taste of olive oil and wine, with approachable guides and delightful regional flavors.
6. From Venice: Wine Tour in the Euganean Hills
For those staying in Venice but craving a day trip into Veneto’s vineyards, this tour from Venice offers a scenic drive and visits to two family-run wineries. Over about 4 hours, you’ll explore vineyards and barrel rooms, tasting two different wines paired with local snacks like bread and cheese.
The tour’s highlight is the personalized visit to wineries that are often outside the usual tourist trail. Visitors often praise the guide’s local knowledge and the beautiful countryside views during the drive. It’s well-suited for travelers who want a day outside the city with a focus on authentic Veneto wines.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for Venice-based visitors wanting a taste of Veneto’s wine scene with minimal hassle.
7. Luxury Wine Tasting in Modena City Center
If you’re visiting nearby Modena and looking for a more upscale experience, the Luxury Wine Tasting in Modena provides a curated selection of four local wines, paired with Emilia’s finest cured meats and cheeses. Hosted at a cozy wine bar, a sommelier guides you through the nuances of each wine, sharing secrets of winemaking from the region.
This tasting is ideal for those who prefer a more intimate, relaxed atmosphere and want to learn about local wine traditions. At just about an hour, it’s perfect for a pre-dinner activity or a relaxed afternoon. Reviewers highlight the informative yet personable host and the delicious local pairings.
Bottom Line: A perfect, sophisticated experience for wine enthusiasts wanting to indulge in Emilia’s culinary culture without leaving the city.
$48.68 per person
How to Choose the Best Wine Tour in Padua
When selecting the right tour, consider your time available, interests, and budget. If you’re after a deep dive into regional wine and olive oil, Tours #1 and #5 offer comprehensive experiences in the Euganean Hills, with stops at historic sites. For a quick city taste, the Padua Wine Tasting Walk provides an authentic, intimate glimpse into Veneto’s urban wine scene.
Travelers who want outdoor vineyard visits and the chance to explore the volcanic terrain should look at Tour #3, which combines natural beauty and wine craft. Budget-conscious visitors or those craving a luxury experience can opt for the Modena wine tasting, which offers a refined atmosphere.
Booking early is wise, especially during peak seasons. Each of these tours offers a different flavor of Veneto’s wine culture — from educational and leisurely to luxurious and quick. Think about what kind of experience you want, and don’t forget to check availability in advance.
Padua and its surroundings boast an impressive variety of wine experiences, whether you’re after a full-day exploration or a short city tasting. For those interested in regional history, scenic vineyard walks, or gourmet pairings, the options above will leave you satisfied. Whether you prefer a relaxed wine and olive oil day or a luxury tasting, Padua’s wine tours are sure to enrich your Italian journey.