I was inspired to write about how to spend A Day in Bassano del Grappa because several of my Italian language students are visiting this beautiful town this summer. It’s a place rich in history, brimming with culture, and full of flavour — ideal for a day trip or a relaxing overnight stay.
Bassano del Grappa is a town in the Veneto region of Northern Italy, located in the province of Vicenza. It's situated at the foot of Monte Grappa, where the Veneto plains meet the hills leading up to the Alps.
Ernest Hemingway and Bassano del Grappa
Ernest Hemingway and Bassano del Grappa share a quiet but powerful historical bond. During the First World War, a young Hemingway served as an ambulance driver for the Red Cross on the Italian front, and it was in the hills near Bassano that he was severely wounded in 1918. After recovering, he spent time at Villa Ca’ Erizzo on the banks of the Brenta River—now home to the Hemingway and Great War Museum. This experience deeply shaped his perspective on war and love, and directly inspired his celebrated novel A Farewell to Arms. Walking through Bassano today, you can visit the very grounds where Hemingway lived, wrote letters, and reflected on the brutality and beauty of life—making the town not just a scenic destination, but also a place of literary pilgrimage.
What to See in One Day in Bassano del Grappa
All of these places are in the city centre
1. Ponte Vecchio (Ponte degli Alpini)
Where: A 16th-century wooden bridge designed by the famous Italian architect Palladio.
Why Visit: Iconic landmark, rebuilt after WWII by the Alpini troops.
Tip: Visit at sunset for stunning views over the Brenta River.
2. Museo Civico di Bassano del Grappa
Address: Piazza Garibaldi 34, 36061 Bassano del Grappa VI, Italy
Website: museibassano.it
Local art, archaeology, and wartime exhibits.
Paintings by Jacopo Bassano and WWII memorials.
3. Piazzale Medaglie d'Oro
Where: Site of the 1944 Partisan executions.
Why Visit: A moving memorial to local resistance fighters.
4. Poli Grappa Museum
Address: Via Gamba 6, 36061 Bassano del Grappa VI, Italy
Website: poligrappa.com
Museum dedicated to the history of Grappa.
Bonus: Free tastings and a shop with artisanal bottles.
What is Grappa?
Grappa is a potent Italian brandy made from grape pomace. Bassano is widely regarded as its spiritual home. Visit:
- Poli Distillerie — Known for quality and tradition. Website: poligrappa.com
- Nardini Distillery — Italy’s oldest grappa producer. Website: www.nardini.it
Both offer tastings and make excellent gifts.
Eat like a local in Bassano del Grappa
Nestled in the foothills of the Veneto region, Bassano del Grappa is a gem of a town, renowned for its historic bridge, artisan shops and, above all, its rich culinary tradition. From rustic osterias to refined trattorias, the town offers a memorable gastronomic experience that combines local ingredients with heartfelt hospitality. Here are three recommended restaurants where you can savour the true flavours of the area:
1. Osteria Al Terraglio
Address: Piazza Terraglio 28, 36061 Bassano del Grappa (VI), Italy
Website: www.osteriaterraglio.it
Set in a historic piazza just steps from the city centre, Osteria Al Terraglio is a charming and atmospheric spot known for its jazz-inspired decor and warm, relaxed ambience. The menu pays homage to Venetian culinary tradition while also embracing more creative and seasonal offerings. It’s an ideal place for an aperitivo, a romantic dinner or a leisurely lunch with friends. Expect excellent wines and plates that reflect the chef’s love of both heritage and innovation.
2. Ristorante Il Garibaldi
Address: Via Lazzaro Bonamigo 37, 36061 Bassano del Grappa (VI), Italy
Website: Not available
For a more classic, no-frills dining experience, Il Garibaldi delivers traditional Veneto dishes in a warm, welcoming setting. Signature plates include bigoli all’anatra (homemade thick pasta with duck ragù) and baccalà alla vicentina (salt cod slow-cooked in milk and onions), both firm favourites among locals. The restaurant’s laid-back charm and commitment to authentic regional cuisine make it a reliable choice for those seeking genuine flavours without pretension.
3. SmokeHouse
Address: Via Beato Angelico 3, 36061 Bassano del Grappa (VI), Italy
Website: www.smokehouse.it
Notes: A modern, stylish steakhouse offering premium cuts including Wagyu, along with BBQ favourites and burgers. Known for its relaxed setting, English-friendly service, and consistently well-cooked meat. A go-to for serious steak lovers.
4. Antico Ristorante Cardellino
Address: Via Giusto Bellavitis 17, 36061 Bassano del Grappa (VI), Italy
Website: www.ristorantecardellino.it
Notes: This long-established restaurant specialises in traditional Venetian cuisine. Alongside its historic charm, it offers exceptional roast beef and meat dishes made with seasonal ingredients. A local favourite for authentic dining in a refined yet warm atmosphere.
5. Trattoria Bigoleria da Alice
Address: Via de Blasi 9, 36061 Bassano del Grappa (VI), Italy
Website: www.trattoriaalice.it
Notes: A rustic, welcoming trattoria known for hearty portions and a friendly setting. Their grilled meats, especially the tagliata di manzo and entrecôte, are consistently praised. Ideal for a relaxed, satisfying steak meal in a home-style environment.
Where to stay in Bassano del Grappa Veneto
Piazzale Giardino 14, 36061 Bassano del Grappa (VI), Italy
Website is www.hotelbelvederebassano.it
Housed in a 15th Century building near the Ponte degli Alpini, it combines traditional charm with modern comforts and has an onsite restaurant specialising in local cuisine.
Viale delle Fosse 21, 36061 Bassano del Grappa (VI), Italy
Website is www.hotelbrennero.com.
This modern hotel is just a short stroll from the historic core, offering free private parking and easy access to train connections and local attractions.
Bed & Breakfast Sinfonia
Via Museo 11, 36061 Bassano del Grappa (VI), Italy
Website is www.bbsinfonia.it
This centrally located B&B is highly rated for its tasteful décor, welcoming hosts, excellent breakfast, and walking‑distance access to key landmarks.
B&B Locanda Hemingway
Via Lungobrenta Ernest Hemingway 9 (also known as Via Ca’ Erizzo 9), 36061 Bassano del Grappa (VI), Italy
Website is www.locandahemingway.it
My personal favourite. Located in the peaceful Villa Ca’ Erizzo by the Brenta River, this refined B&B offers elegant rooms, free parking, bicycles, and complimentary access to the Hemingway & Great War Museum. It’s about a 10–15 minute walk from the historic centre.
Planning a Trip to Bassano del Grappa?
If you’re dreaming of wandering these lovely streets and chatting with locals over a glass of prosecco or asking directions to the Ponte Vecchio in Italian, why not learn some Italian before you go?
My Italian for Holidays course is designed especially for visitors like you—offering practical, friendly lessons tailored to help you feel confident exploring Italy on your own terms.
Visit Learn Italian Manchester to get started and make your trip to Bassano del Grappa even more memorable.