Tourism in the Euganean Hills

Discover the Euganean Hills

Tourism in the Euganean Hills means exploring a mosaic of nature, medieval villages and authentic flavours. The area is characterised by an extraordinary biodiversity: the Mediterranean maquis, chestnut groves, oak forests, and over 1,700 plant species—including dry meadows (known as vegri) and numerous wild orchids—coexist with foxes, martens, badgers, hedgehogs, dormice, and more than 120 bird species. A mosaic of landscapes that changes within just a few kilometres. Between scenic walks, warm thermal waters, and wines that tell the story of the land, every experience becomes a precious memory. An invitation to be surprised by a place that blends beauty, relaxation and tradition.

The Euganean Hills are

A Regional Park and a UNESCO MAB Biosphere Reserve

The Euganean Hills form a unique territory recognised for its biodiversity and extraordinary landscapes. Since 1989, the hills have been protected by the Euganean Hills Regional Park and, since 2024, they have also formed the Euganean Hills Biosphere Reserve under the UNESCO MAB programme.

Towns and villages to see

Medieval villages and cities of art, guarding a rich history and tradition. The “Colli Euganei” Regional Park comprises 15 towns, each with its own identity: Arquà Petrarca, one of Italy’s “Most Beautiful Villages”; Este, with its Carrarese Castle; Monselice, a city with an ancient history; Montagnana, with its city walls considered among the best-preserved in Europe and the “Palio dei Dieci Comuni” historic festival.

Relaxation and wellness at the Euganean thermal baths

Thermal waters and wellness centres to rejuvenate body and mind. At the foot of the hills lies Europe’s largest thermal basin, the Euganean thermal baths (or Terme Euganee), whose waters—unique in their composition and properties—travel 80 kilometres underground before resurfacing warm and rich in minerals, attracting visitors from all over the world since ancient times.

Villas and gardens

From sweeping views that stretch across the plain, to villages, castles, villas and monasteries suddenly rising along the hills, everything speaks of a rich and widespread heritage spanning over three thousand years of history. From the earliest prehistoric artifacts to the Roman Via Annia, from medieval courts to Venetian Renaissance villas—such as Villa dei Vescovi, Villa Barbarigo in Valsanzibio, Villa Emo Capodilista, and many others—that enrich the landscape with gardens, mazes, and centuries-old parks. Alongside material history lives spiritual history: the hermitage of Mount Rua, the ruins of the Olivetani Monastery on Mount Venda, and Villa Beatrice d’Este on Mount Gemola preserve centuries of prayer, silence and contemplation.

Paths and nature trails

For outdoor enthusiasts, tourism in the Euganean Hills is a true paradise! Trails winding through hills, forests and vineyards offer unforgettable walks: more than 200 paths allow exploration on foot, by bike or on horseback, with the Euganean Hills Ring Cycle Route offering a truly scenic itinerary and the Rocca Pendice rock climbing area providing an adventurous alternative. Three golf courses complete the sports offering.

History and culture

The Euganean Hills have inspired artists and poets. Petrarch found refuge and peace of mind here in the last years of his life, writing to his friend Moggio Moggi: “If I could only show you the second Helicon that I have prepared for you and the Muses here in the Euganean Hills… I truly think you would never want to leave.” Ugo Foscolo, Byron and Shelley also spent time here, enchanted by the same tranquillity and views.

Wine and wine tourism

Tastings, wineries and vineyards: what better way to discover the local wines? The Euganean Hills are a land to experience—and to savour. Here, wine is not just a product but an emblem of excellence, telling the story of an ancient, generous and deeply authentic land. Vines, cultivated since the time of the ancient Veneti, find their ideal habitat in the volcanic soils and mild microclimate, allowing them to express their full complexity. From this come wines of great character, such as the DOC Colli Euganei and the fragrant DOCG Fior d’Arancio, each glass reflecting the history and mineral essence of the region.

Landscapes and seasons

The Euganean Hills tell the story of the seasons through their landscapes. In spring, blooming almond trees light up the hills with delicacy and brightness. With the arrival of summer, vineyards, olive groves and Mediterranean plants shape the slopes, creating a harmonious scenery. The grape harvest enlivens the late summer period, while in the autumn the woods and hills are painted in warm shades of foliage, offering ever-changing and captivating views.