Bassano del Grappa is a charming town set against a stunning backdrop of green peaks and crossed by the Brenta River, a once-important waterway that carried timber from the mountains to Venice, essential for building the legendary “floating city”.
The tour takes you through the historic centre, including Piazza Libertà, where you can admire the prestigious Remondini Houses from the outside, belonging to a powerful family who, in the 18 th century, founded a true publishing empire and became the largest printing house in Europe. Visit Piazza Garibaldi, the cloister of San Francesco at the Civic Museum, one of the oldest museums in the Veneto region. Stroll along Viale Dei Martiri, a tree-lined avenue that starts from the Upper Castle and reaches Porta delle Grazie; it took this name following a bloody episode during the Second World War.
The iconic Ponte degli Alpini, the true symbol of Bassano, is unmissable. Known as the “Ponte Vecio” by locals, this covered wooden bridge was designed by Andrea Palladio, the renowned architect of the Republic of Venice Here, your gaze will drift over the flowing waters of the Brenta River and the mountains beyond. Moreover, you can’t miss (a taste of) the traditional aperitif called “Mezzo e Mezzo” in Italy’s oldest distillery and, finally, wander down cobblestone streets and historic arcades, discover artisan shops such as traditional local potteries and taste delicious local specialties like Sopressa Veneta, Morlacco, and Bastardo del Grappa cheeses.
But…does this city really take its name from the famous Grappa spirit? Come and find out with us!