Marano di Valpolicella offers more than just scenic vineyards and charming streets; it’s a hub for unforgettable wine experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or just looking to enjoy a memorable day tasting regional specialties, the area boasts a variety of tours that highlight its rich viticultural tradition. We particularly love the Valpolicella: Amarone Chateau Guided Tour and Wine Tasting for its immersive journey through historic vineyards and elegant 18th-century villas. Plus, the DOP Olive Oil Tasting Experience provides a delicious side trip into regional olive oil craftsmanship. These experiences give a genuine taste of the local lifestyle and craftsmanship, making Marano di Valpolicella a perfect spot for food and wine lovers.
If you’re searching for a deep dive into Amarone, the Amarone vertical tasting offers a rare look at how this wine ages over different vintages. Meanwhile, those interested in interactive and fun activities might enjoy Playing with wine, a lighthearted way to learn about wine through hands-on tasting and playful challenges. For a more comprehensive tasting of Valpolicella wines, the Valpolicella in the round tour provides a broad overview that covers the region’s most characteristic varieties. Finally, for a personal touch, the Visit and tasting with the producer offers direct insight into the winemaking process with the owner himself.
Below, we’ve broken down each tour’s details, so you can find the perfect fit for your visit.
1. Valpolicella: Amarone Chateau Guided Tour and Wine Tasting
At number 1 on our list, this guided tour of Tenuta Santa Maria combines history, art, and wine into an engaging 1.5-hour experience. The tour includes a visit to a world-famous winery led by an expert guide and sommelier who will walk you through the vineyard’s secrets. You’ll explore an elegant 18th-century Villa, with its frescoed rooms and romantic gardens, perfect for those who appreciate a touch of elegance. The 16th-century walled vineyards and cellars give you a sense of the long-standing traditions behind the wines.
What makes this tour stand out is the chance to learn about traditional techniques like Appassimento and Ripasso — methods that give Amarone its unique richness. You’ll get to sample world-renowned wines produced here for centuries. The reviews, averaging 4.4/5 from over 100 travelers, praise the expert guidance and the intimate setting. For a manageable price of $39 per person, this is a fantastic option for those looking for an immersive introduction to Valpolicella’s most celebrated wine.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, informative tasting that combines history, art, and wine, ideal for those wanting a taste of both culture and quality.
2. Marano di Valpolicella: DOP Olive Oil Tasting Experience
For anyone interested in regional food beyond wine, the DOP Olive Oil Tasting Experience ranks high with a 4.8/5 rating. This 2-hour tour takes you through the process of making organic extra virgin olive oil, with a focus on DOP-certified oils. You’ll learn how to distinguish between four different types by sight, smell, and taste, which is surprisingly educational and fun.
The experience includes sampling local cheeses, salami, and fresh bread, all paired with regional wines and chutneys. The visit also features a walk through an olive tree garden and panoramic views from the winery’s terrace, making it as scenic as it is tasty. The tour starts at Tenuta Santa Maria Valverde and concludes back there, providing a relaxed yet informative outing.
This tour is perfect for travelers wanting to explore regional gastronomy or those who prefer a shorter, food-focused experience. The price of $67.97 reflects its premium quality and the depth of tasting. It’s a great way to add a flavorful dimension to your trip.
Bottom Line: An engaging, tasty look at regional olive oil production, ideal for foodies eager to expand their palate beyond wine.
3. Amarone vertical tasting: A unique experience tasting different vintages of Amarone
Number 3 on our list is a must-do for wine enthusiasts, especially those fascinated by Amarone’s aging potential. This 1-hour tour offers a vertical tasting of four different Amarone vintages. You’ll visit a local winery at Via Paverno, 21, and enjoy an in-depth look at how this celebrated wine develops over time.
The highlight is the chance to compare vintages, understanding how weather, harvest, and cellar conditions influence flavor, aroma, and structure. You’ll also walk through the vineyard and visit the fruit cellar, gaining insight into the land behind each bottle. The reviews, averaging 4.4/5, emphasize the personalized experience and the opportunity to deepen your appreciation for Amarone.
It’s an excellent choice for travelers with some wine knowledge looking to deepen their understanding. The tasting allows you to appreciate the evolution of wine, and the walk through the vineyard connects you directly with the land.
Bottom Line: A focused, educational experience that unpacks the aging process of Amarone, perfect for wine lovers eager to learn more.
4. Playing with wine
If you prefer an activity with a lighthearted twist, Playing with Wine offers a fun and interactive approach. For $53 per person, this 2-hour activity is designed to teach you how to find a fruit in a wine glass — yes, really! It’s not just about tasting but about engaging your senses and having a few laughs along the way.
This tour is perfect for people who want to break the ice or add a playful element to their wine tasting. The experience is designed to be humorous and memorable, blending education with entertainment. While reviews are not yet available, the concept suggests it’s an excellent choice for groups or first-timers who want to enjoy wine in a relaxed, informal setting.
Bottom Line: A lively, unconventional way to learn about wine that appeals to those who appreciate humor and hands-on activities.
$53 per person
5. Valpolicella in the round: tasting of typical Valpolicella wines
Number 5 is all about comprehensive tasting. For $28 per person, this 1.5-hour tour offers a “round” tasting of six typical Valpolicella wines. Starting at Via Paverno, 21, you’ll visit a historic wine cellar and get a behind-the-scenes look at the processing area.
The tour includes a visit to the fruit orchard and vineyard, giving a genuine sense of the land behind the wines. You’ll taste everything from fresh Valpolicella to rich Amarone, with comments on what makes each style unique. Reviewers highlight the well-organized experience and the friendly guide, Silvia, who makes the visit enjoyable and educational.
This tour is a perfect introduction for those new to Valpolicella wines or travelers who want to see the entire spectrum of local varieties in one sitting. It offers excellent value, combining education and tasting in a compact format.
Bottom Line: A top choice for beginners or those wanting an overview of Valpolicella’s diverse wines.
$28 per person
6. Visit and tasting with the producer
Rounding out our list, this personalized experience offers a guided visit with the winery owner at Corte Badin. The 2-hour tour provides a rare chance to interact directly with the producer, ask questions, and learn about the winemaking process from someone with intimate knowledge of the land and traditions.
This tour is ideal for travelers who want a down-to-earth, informal experience and the opportunity to connect on a personal level. The reviews, with an average of 4.4/5, emphasize the authenticity of the interaction and the depth of insight shared. It’s a relaxed, behind-the-scenes look at what makes this winery special.
Because of the personal nature and direct interaction, this experience is suited for those interested in authentic, small-scale wine-making and who value a more intimate experience over large group tours.
Bottom Line: A highly personalized, engaging visit perfect for those who want to connect directly with the producer and learn about the craft firsthand.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Marano di Valpolicella
When selecting your ideal tour, consider your budget, how much time you have, and your particular interests. If you’re passionate about Amarone and wine aging, the Vertical Amarone tasting (link) offers an in-depth look. For those eager to explore regional foods, the DOP Olive Oil Tasting (link) is a flavorful change of pace.
Travelers short on time but wanting a broad overview should opt for the Valpolicella in the round (link). If you’re after a personal experience, the Visit and tasting with the producer (link) is ideal. For a fun, lighthearted activity, Playing with wine (link) is perfect for groups or families.
Booking early is recommended, especially for popular tours, and consider the season—spring and early fall tend to be best for vineyard visits and tastings.
Final Thoughts
From comprehensive tastings of Valpolicella’s signature wines to interactive and food-focused experiences, Marano di Valpolicella offers a range of tours suited to different interests and budgets. For wine lovers wanting a deep dive into Amarone’s aging process, the vertical tasting is ideal. If you prefer a more relaxed, personal outing, the Visit and tasting with the producer will satisfy your curiosity and desire for authenticity.
Travelers who enjoy a playful approach or want to explore regional olive oil will find plenty of options, too. Whatever your focus, booking ahead will ensure you secure a spot and make the most of your visit to this rich, flavorful corner of Italy.