The Veneto it is a land of great charm, where history is intertwined with legend. THE castles in the region they offer a journey through time, taking visitors back to the Middle Ages.
From rocks to fortresses, here is a guide to the most beautiful castles in Veneto, ideal destinations for a weekend that is decidedly different and out of the ordinary.
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Soave Castle
This Scaliger castle, consisting of a keep and three courtyards, was built on the top of Mount Tenda so as to dominate the plain below.
The Caminata is a room in the castle with a large fireplace on whose table period objects are preserved. The portrait room instead displays historical figures who probably stayed in the castle: Mastino I delle Scala, Dante Alighieri, Cangrande della Scala (the most important of the Scaligeri) and Cansignorio della Scala who restored and expanded the castle.
- Where is it: Soave, province of Verona.
- How to reach it: by car via the A4 Soave-San Bonifacio exit; by train to San Bonifacio station.
- Best seasons to visit: spring and autumn for the mild climate and panoramic views.
READ ALSO: All the UNESCO heritage sites in Veneto: the complete list
Catajo Castle
Monumental building with 350 rooms and a park of over 40 hectares. Cknown as the palace of the Euganean Hills, offers precious frescoes and the Giardino dei Giganti. The castle is full of fascinating stories and legends, including that of the spirit chamber, which is said to be haunted.
- Where is it: Battaglia Terme, province of Padua.
- How to reach it: by car via the A13 Terme Euganee exit; by train to Battaglia Terme station.
- Best seasons to visit: spring and summer to enjoy the park and outdoor activities.
Castles of Marostica
The Upper Castle and Lower Castle are connected by a wall almost 2 km long. Famous for the living chess game that takes place every two years, the castle also offers spectacular panoramic views and a unique historical atmosphere. The Upper Castle, located on a hill, offers an incredible view of the surrounding plain.
- Where is it: Marostica, province of Vicenza.
- How to reach it: by car via A31 Dueville exit; by train to Bassano del Grappa station.
- Best seasons to visit: spring and September for the chess game.
Malcesine Castle
Perched on the north-eastern shore of Lake Garda, it is renowned for Goethe’s drawings. Inside the castle there is the Fishing Museum and lake activities. The castle’s towers offer stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains, making it an ideal location for panoramic photographs.
- Where is it: Malcesine, province of Verona.
- How to reach it: by car via A22 exit Rovereto Sud; by train to Peschiera del Garda station.
- Best seasons to visit: summer to combine a visit to the castle with activities on the lake.
Castles of Juliet and Romeo
Two opposing castles, Castello della Villa and Castello della Bellaguardia, which are said to have inspired the story of Romeo and Juliet. Both castles offer breathtaking panoramic views of the Dolomites and the plain below, with paths connecting them through an evocative landscape.
- Where is it: Montecchio Maggiore, province of Vicenza.
- How to reach it: by car via A4 exit Montecchio; by train to Montecchio Maggiore station.
- Best seasons to visit: all year round, for the panoramic view of the Dolomites.
Montagnana Castle
Castel San Zeno is still well preserved today, with its intact 2km city walls, with towers and a pentagonal plan. The castle hosts historical and cultural events throughout the year, offering a total immersion in the medieval history of the region.
- Where is it: Montagnana, province of Padua.
- How to reach it: by car via A13 Monselice exit; by train to Montagnana station.
- Best seasons to visit: summer for the Palio dei 10 Comuni and the historical events.
Zumelle Castle
Situated on a hill, Zumelle Castle has a mighty crenellated wall and a tower. You can sleep and eat inside the castle, which hosts events and educational tours. The internal rooms, furnished in medieval style, offer an authentic and unique experience to visitors.
- Where is it: Mel, province of Belluno.
- How to reach it: by car via A27 exit Belluno; by train to Belluno station.
- Best seasons to visit: summer for the Blue Grotto and outdoor activities.
Carrarese Castle of Este
Surrounded by a thick wall that delimits a public garden, it was a defensive fortress of the Este lordship. The castle offers a magnificent example of medieval military architecture, with well-preserved guard towers and walkways.
- Where is it: Este, province of Padua.
- How to reach it: By car via A13 Monselice exit; by train to Este station.
- Best seasons to visit: spring and autumn for the mild climate.
Scaliger Castle
Symbol of Verona after the Arena, the Scaligero Castle it is known for its majestic bridge. It was built in the 14th century by Cangrande II della Scala. Inside the castle there is the civic museum of Verona, which houses a rich collection of medieval and Renaissance art.
- Where is it: Villafranca of Verona
- How to reach it: By car via A4 exit Verona Su; by train to Verona Porta Nuova station.
- Best seasons to visit: all the year.
Andraz Castle
Very ancient manor house along the road between Arabba and Cortinto. The ruins can be visited in summer through a museum tour.
The strategic position of the castle offers spectacular views of the Dolomites, making the visit an unforgettable experience.
- Where is it: Andraz, province of Belluno.
- How to reach it: By car via SS48.
- Best seasons to visit: summer to enjoy the landscape and guided tours.
