About the City
Asolo
Jewel of the Veneto surrounded by breathtaking views
A hidden gem in the heart of the Veneto region, Asolo is a fascinating town, rich in history, culture and natural beauty. This small town is known as the 'City of a Hundred Horizons' thanks to its views of the Venetian plain and surrounding hills. The town is part of the Cittaslow movement because of its dedication to the preservation of its uniqueness and resistance to fast and unchecked development. Asolo stands out for its quality of life, the authenticity of its culture and the active participation of its inhabitants. Each year, the city organizes events such as the St. Martin's Fair, a popular festival with markets, music and local gastronomy, and the Asolo Festival, dedicated to classical music. For the responsible visitor, Asolo offers cultural attractions such as the castle of Caterina Cornaro and the cathedral, among the best known, numerous nature hiking trails, and delicious local cuisine to discover. Nestled in the Prosecco hills, a visit to a local winery is a must-do activity.
The Slow Experience
Asolo, known as the “City of a Hundred Horizons,” is a charming village in the province of Treviso, rich in history, culture and breathtaking views. Here is a detailed itinerary to discover the wonders of Asolo in one day.
Details & Programs
Morning:
• 09:30 – Arrival and Walk through the Historic Center. Begin your visit by entering the village through Porta Loreggia, one of the ancient gates to the city. Right after, admire the Zen Fountain, historically a resting point for travelers. Continue along Via Robert Browning, the main street lined with arcades, flower-filled balconies, and charming shops offering local products.
• 10:30 – Piazza Maggiore and the Cathedral of Asolo. Reach Piazza Maggiore, the beating heart of the village, dominated by the historic 16th-century Fontana Maggiore. Overlooking the square is the Cathedral of Asolo, home to significant works of art, including Lorenzo Lotto’s Assumption.
• 11:30 – Castle of Queen Cornaro and Civic Tower. A short walk from the square brings you to Queen Cornaro's Castle, former residence of Caterina Cornaro, the ex-queen of Cyprus. Today the castle hosts the Duse Theater and offers panoramic views of the city. Next to the castle, the Civic Tower stands as another historic symbol of Asolo.
Lunch:
• 13:00 – Lunch at a Typical Restaurant. For an authentic culinary experience, consider Osteria Al Bacaro, located in the historic center. This cozy, characteristic eatery serves traditional Venetian dishes.
Afternoon:
• 15:00 – Eleonora Duse’s House and Civic Museum. After lunch, visit the house of Eleonora Duse, the famous actress and muse of Gabriele D’Annunzio. Continue on to the Civic Museum, which includes a section dedicated to Freya Stark, the British explorer and writer closely tied to Asolo.
• 16:30 – The Rocca of Asolo. End the day with a climb to the Rocca, a medieval fortress perched atop Monte Ricco. Though the ascent is a bit challenging, it is well rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views over the surrounding hills and the Venetian plain.
Possible Events or Markets:
If your visit falls on the second Sunday of the month, don’t miss the Asolo Antique Market – a must-see for collectors and enthusiasts.
Note: Suggested times and activities may vary depending on the season and availability. It's recommended to check attraction opening times and the presence of special events in advance.
The Accomodations
