Bassano del Grappa, a jewel of the Veneto region, is famous for its charming historic center and the iconic Ponte Vecchio, the city’s symbol.
But there’s so much more to discover in Bassano! This guide will take you on a one-day journey to explore this fascinating destination, uncovering its hidden secrets.

Nestled at the foot of the Venetian Prealps along the Brenta River, Bassano del Grappa enchants visitors with its elegance and rich historical heritage. The town bears the marks of vibrant history, including pivotal moments from the two World Wars.
Known for its strong ties to the tradition of grappa production, its connection to the Alpini, and its ceramic craftsmanship, Bassano’s character is deeply intertwined with its surroundings, including the mighty Brenta River flowing beside it.

An ideal destination for a day trip, Bassano del Grappa offers the perfect blend of culture, postcard-worthy landscapes, and gastronomy. It can also be combined with visits to nearby gems in the Veneto, such as Soave, Castelfranco Veneto, and Cittadella.

The picturesque streets and cultural attractions of Bassano captivate visitors from across Veneto and beyond, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the region’s treasures beyond its famous capital.

Are you ready to uncover Bassano del Grappa’s hidden gems? This guide will walk you through the must-see attractions of this beautiful town on the Brenta.

The Ponte Vecchio

The Ponte Vecchio, also known as the Ponte degli Alpini or the Bridge of Bassano, is undoubtedly the city’s most iconic landmark. Originally built in 1569 by Andrea Palladio, the bridge has been rebuilt multiple times due to wartime destruction but still retains its original design and charm.

The latest restoration was dedicated to the Alpini soldiers of World War I, emphasizing its historical and cultural significance. This wooden bridge, now a National Monument, serves as an entrance to the historic center, encircled by ancient walls. Designed by Palladio as a “village square,” the bridge, 8 meters wide, has become a lively meeting point for locals and tourists, thanks to its vibrant atmosphere.

At both ends of the bridge, you’ll find the Alpini Museum, accessible through an old tavern, showcasing an extensive collection of wartime artifacts and fascinating stories about the bridge’s history.

Additionally, the historic Nardini distillery adds a cultural and gastronomic experience to your visit.

The Historic Nardini Distillery

Founded in 1779, the Nardini Distillery in Bassano del Grappa is regarded as Italy’s oldest distillery. Distillation practices date back to the Middle Ages, passed down through generations using portable stills. Bortolo Nardini, mastering the art of distillation, established the first fixed-still distillery in Bassano, transforming the tradition by having farmers bring their pomace into the city for production.

At the Nardini Grapperia, visitors can purchase high-quality grappa and book guided tours of the historic facilities. These tours, lasting about 90 minutes, are available by appointment on weekends and reveal the secrets of grappa distillation.

Poli Grappa Museum

Located near the Ponte Vecchio, the Poli Grappa Museum is the Poli family’s tribute to the history of grappa. The museum, divided into five free exhibition areas, immerses visitors in the art of grappa production through displays of antique stills, distillation techniques, and multimedia presentations.

For a more interactive experience, you can book a grappa tasting, sampling five different products for just €3.50 per person, allowing you to savor the refined flavors of Poli’s premium spirits.

The Ezzelini Castle

Next on our tour is the Ezzelini Castle, a majestic fortress featuring the Bolzonella Tower, standing approximately 30 meters tall as a key defensive stronghold. The current walls, dating back to the 12th century, reflect the castle’s long-standing history as an impregnable structure.

The outdoor area and wall walkways are free to access, while entry to the castle requires a reservation and a small fee. Inside, temporary exhibitions are often held. On weekends, visitors can also explore the Duomo of Santa Maria in Colle, dating back to 998, adding even more historical depth to the visit.

Piazza Garibaldi 

Moving to the vibrant heart of Bassano del Grappa, a short walk brings you to Piazza Garibaldi. Once known as Piazza delle Erbe and home to the historic fruit and vegetable market, it is the city’s bustling hub.

On one side, you’ll find the Church of San Francesco, built using stones and pebbles from the Brenta River. On the other, the Civic Tower of Bassano del Grappa rises 43 meters high. Visitors can climb to the top for breathtaking 360-degree views. Nearby, the Civic Museum, one of Veneto’s oldest museums, is housed in the former Convent of San Francesco.

Museums in Bassano del Grappa

Bassano del Grappa is rich in museums that showcase its history and culture. Start with the Civic Museum, one of the oldest in Veneto, featuring collections from the 16th to the 20th century and regularly hosting temporary exhibitions.

Another highlight is the Hemingway and Great War Museum at Villa Ca’ Erizzo, offering an immersive experience into World War I. The museum serves as both a tribute to the famous writer and a memorial to the U.S. involvement in the war.

Palazzo Strum

Palazzo Sturm is a historic 18th-century mansion known for its elegant architecture and cultural significance. Its terrace, freely accessible, offers stunning views of the Brenta River and the Ponte degli Alpini.

Today, the palace houses two important museums: the Remondini Museum and the Ceramic Museum. The Remondini Museum covers over two centuries of printing history, from Gutenberg’s press to 19th-century decorative prints. The Ceramic Museum, inaugurated in 1992, showcases a rich collection of pottery and porcelain, celebrating Bassano’s ceramic heritage.

The Alta Via del Tabacco Trail

The “Alta Via del Tabacco” is a scenic hiking trail starting in Bassano del Grappa. Running along the right bank of the Brenta River, it spans about 35 kilometers to the village of Costa.

The trail’s name originates from the tobacco cultivation that flourished in the Brenta Canal area in the late 17th century. This activity, often tied to smuggling, was vital for the local communities’ livelihood.

Walking the trail offers stunning views, a peaceful retreat from the tourist crowds, and another opportunity to admire Bassano’s historic center from a distance.

Bassano del Grappa is a truly captivating place, offering a blend of panoramic vistas, rich traditions, and authentic local experiences. Its charm is sure to enchant anyone exploring this remarkable town.

Do you want to ask me for advice, share your opinions, suggest something to do or see, or simply… say hello?

Leave me a comment below or,

I’ll be waiting for you on my FACEBOOK page LETYGOESON

on the INSTAGRAM profile @letygoeson

Or follow me on Pinterest so you will not miss any of my travel articles, itineraries, tips, and food recommendations.

See you there!