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Bassano del Grappa on a cloudy day. A red bridge sits atop a body of water with mountains in the background (Kimberly Kephart)
Tucked at the foot of the Venetian Alps, Bassano Del Grappa is not just another pretty Italian town. It is a perfect blend of history, culture, and striking scenery, all within easy reach for a rewarding day trip from Vicenza, Aviano or Venice.
Start your visit where the town’s identity is most visible: the iconic Ponte Vecchio, also known as the Ponte degli Alpini. Designed by Andrea Palladio in the 16th Century and rebuilt several times due to damage from World War I, the covered wooden bridge stands as a symbol of Bassano Del Grappa’s past. It is also a gathering place, you will often spot veterans of the Alpini corps sharing stories over a glass of local grappa nearby.
Grappa, the town’s namesake, and signature spirit is serious business here. Take time to visit a distillery or two, Poli and Nardini are historic names, and the same fiery, fragrant brandy made from grape pomace. Even if you are not usually a fan of grappa the process and tradition behind it are worth experiencing. Right along the main street, you’ll find the Poli Grappa Museum. This is a great starting point for those who want to learn more about the history of Grappa and of course the different types.
One recommendation is to head into Antico Laboratorio San Giuseppe to pick up some gifts for you or your family. If you ask nicely the owners will let you sneak a few sips.
A professional bartender in a white shirt and black apron holds a tasting glass. (Oleksandr Slastin (Adobe Stock))
Just steps from the bridge, the Taverna Al Ponte doubles as a cozy spot for lunch and an informal museum dedicated to the Alpini, Italy’s elite mountain troops. It’s here that you’ll have one of the best meat and cheeseboards in a beautiful local atmosphere. You can even get an Aperol Spritz for less than €5.
“After you are done, head downstairs to the Alpini Museum and learn a little bit about the history of the Alpini. ”
The photos and the artifacts give insight into the role these soldiers played in WWI and WWII, especially in the brutal campaigns fought in the mountains above.
Speaking of history, American author Ernest Hemingway spent time in this region as an ambulance driver during WWI and he was gravely wounded near the Piave River not far from Bassano del Grappa. The landscapes and wartime atmosphere he experienced in northern Italy deeply influenced his novel “A Farewell to Arms.” You can even take time to visit a museum dedicated to his time in the area. It’s small, not much in the way of English translation but honestly worth a small visit!
From the center, it’s a short walk up to the Castello Degli Ezzelini, a medieval fortress with panoramic views and a small art gallery inside. The castle grounds are peaceful and will give you a higher vantage point over the rooftops and winding streets of the old town.
On good air quality days, the mountains seem to extend on forever and only made more beautiful by the blue glacial color of the Piave River.
If time allows, or if you are up for an afternoon adventure, drive up to Monte Grappa. This would be the perfect way to end your day, sunsets here are incredible.
The winding road climbs through forested hills to a monumental WWI memorial and offers jaw-dropping views over the Venetian plain. It is a humbling, quiet place that reflects the cost of the wars fought here and rewards visitors with one of the most expansive vistas in Northern Italy.
Getting there: Bassano Del Grappa is about a one-hour drive from Vicenza and two hours from Aviano. Trains run regularly from nearby cities like Padova and Treviso. From Venice Mestre, it is about 1.5 Hours.
Tip: Wear comfortable shoes, have a jacket for higher elevations and assign a designated driver (if sampling grappa).
The Alpini Museum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. | Tickets are €3
The Hemingway Museum is open Wednesday to Sunday: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., 3 to 8 p.m. | Full price: €9 Free admission: Children under 6 years old, people with disabilities
“It is wise to remember that many restaurants and businesses close for what is called Riposo.”
Please keep this in mind when planning your day. You’ll likely run into this in smaller towns throughout Italy. It is also wise to carry snacks on the off chance you miss lunch.
Kimberly Kephart is a freelance travel writer and destination content creator, collaborating with global brands and destination management offices. Based in Vicenza, Italy, Kimberly is passionate about exploring the globe and sharing her insights through her blog, Kimberly Kephart Travels, and on Instagram at @kimberlykepharttravels. As she pursues her Travel Coach Certification with the Travel Coach Network, Kimberly continues to craft comprehensive travel resources that inspire and empower fellow military spouses and solo travelers to embark on meaningful, sustainable journeys.
Editor’s Note: This article was written by a member of the local military community, not an employee of Stars and Stripes. Neither the organization nor the content is being represented by Stars and Stripes or the Department of Defense.
