The Fabulous Town of Asolo

Near Venice you will find one of the Veneto's best-kept secrets, the little town of Asolo, known as the "city of a hundred horizons." It is one of the loveliest little towns I have ever visited and I make a point to return whenever I am in the area. Heck, I have even considered retiring here someday.

It is quite incredible that so few of the millions of tourists that pass through Venice each year are even aware of this little gem on their doorstep, they really do not know what they have missed.

I guess it is better that they don't swarm the town, but my advice to you is to not make that mistake. If you visit Venice, take a day trip; better still stay a night or two here and explore the town and the lovely surrounding countryside. Just keep it our secret, we don't want the whole world knowing.

Where to Stay in Asolo

The Albergo Al Sole, without a doubt, the hotel offers excellent quality at reasonable rates. There are a few other hotels in the town, but most don't compare, and many other good ones are out of town. Let's face it, if you are coming here to visit the town it makes absolutely no sense to go and stay a few miles outside of it, and the Albergo Al Sole is right in the town's medieval piazza.

The other excellent option, that is right in town, but requires a bigger budget than mine, is the Cipriani, which, like the five star Cipriani in Venice, offers an outstanding experience and a beautiful setting. Once you see what the Cipriani is like, you won't be able to resist splurging, so, my advice is to NOT click on this link.

What to See

Come here mainly for the joy of being a part of life in this picturesque medieval town, even if it is only for a short while.

Stroll the streets and piazzas, browsing the many shops full to the brim with home-made products and selling some absolutely amazing food, ranging from the local bread made in wood-fired ovens to some of the best salami you will ever eat.

The wine too is outstanding; you are right in the middle of Italy's Prosecco country, and that is reason enough for a celebration. So, open a bottle of bubbly and enjoy. 

As you wander the lanes, you'll discover, around every corner, views of unbelievable beauty. No wonder they call this little town the city of a hundred horizons. With vineyards, cypress trees, rolling hills, soaring mountains in the far distance, and emerald green meadows, the views make you feel like you are inside a great landscape painting. Forget those Tuscan landscapes; this is better.

If you are interested in antiques, then visit the antiques fair, which is held every second Sunday of the month and attracts people from far and wide. Even if you don’t normally care much for antiques, I can assure you that there is plenty to keep you interested in this very unique market.

Perhaps you can't survive on the pleasures of life in a charming little old Italian town alone and need some historic sites to get you going? If so, you needn't despair; there are a few very good ones...

These are the Top Sights to See in Asolo:

The 13th-century Castle of Queen Cornaro, which is now a theatre, then there is the 9th-century tower high above the town and the old city walls on the hill as you walk up to the tower.

The Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta, which dates back in parts to the 10th century, and the 16th-century villas on the edge of town.

Additionally, don't miss the Palazzo della Ragione, a historic building that now houses the town's civic museum, featuring a collection of local artifacts and artworks.

The picturesque Piazza Garibaldi, with its charming fountain and lively cafes, is perfect for enjoying the local ambiance.

Lastly, the Museo Civico di Asolo offers an in-depth look into the town's rich history and cultural heritage, providing a deeper understanding of Asolo's significance in the region.

Getting to Asolo from Venice

By car is easiest, but if you don’t have a car, you can catch the train from Venice to Treviso and then the bus from Treviso to Asolo.

The train to Treviso from Venice runs every twenty minutes or so and takes about thirty minutes. The bus from Treviso will take about the same time.

If you can't be bothered with trying to figure out Italian public transport I would suggest taking this excellent tour of Asolo from Venice.

For more photos and info about Asolo click here.

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