“Discovery of Witches” Euganean Hills Tour from Padua

If you’re a fan of the HBO/Sky series A Discovery of Witches, or simply love exploring Italy’s charming medieval villages and stunning landscapes, this tour offers a uniquely themed adventure. Focusing on the series inspired by Deborah Harkness’s All Souls Trilogy, the experience takes you through the picturesque Euganean Hills, visiting iconic filming locations, historic sites, and enjoying delicious local wines. Whether your interest lies in the series, history, or wine, this tour promises a memorable day full of authentic Italian charm.

What we love about this experience is its attention to detail — from visiting the medieval village of Arquà Petrarca to wandering through the castle interiors, each stop enriches the connection to the series and the landscape. The fact that it includes a wine tasting at a local vineyard adds a delightful, sensory element to the journey. We also appreciate the small group size — capped at 8 travelers — which means plenty of personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

However, if you’re someone seeking a very fast-paced, activity-packed day, this could feel leisurely for some. The itinerary is designed to allow ample time at each stop, which is perfect for soaking in the scenery, but might not suit those looking for a quick overview.

This tour is best suited for series fans, history buffs, wine lovers, or those wanting to experience Italy’s peaceful countryside while following a captivating storyline. It’s a wonderful choice for travelers who enjoy a mix of culture, nature, and a touch of fantasy.

Good To Know

• Themed Experience: Perfect for fans of A Discovery of Witches, with visits to filming locations and series-inspired sites.
• Small Group: Limited to 8 travelers, providing a personalized and intimate feel.
• Rich Cultural Stops: Includes medieval villages, a majestic castle, and scenic vineyard roads.
• Authentic Tasting: Enjoys a wine tasting at a local winery with local cold cuts and cheeses.
• Expert Guide: Knowledgeable guides share curious facts and stories about the land and series filming.
• Relaxed Pace: The itinerary allows plenty of time at each stop for exploration and photos.

An In-Depth Look at the “Discovery of Witches” Tour

The Start: Medieval Charm in Arquà Petrarca

The journey begins with a visit to Arquà Petrarca, widely regarded as Italy’s second most beautiful medieval village. This peaceful spot, surrounded by the rolling Euganean Hills, is where Dante Alighieri’s beloved poet Francesco Petrarch spent his final days. Here, the guide—like Chiara, who received praise for her detailed knowledge—delights visitors with stories about the land and the series’ filming locations.

You’ll have about two hours exploring this quaint village, wandering narrow streets lined with stone houses, and soaking in the tranquil, timeless atmosphere. Reviewers mention how this stop feels like stepping into a fairy tale, with one noting it as “peaceful, detailed, and personalized.” The absence of entrance fees allows you to enjoy the scenery freely, but the guide’s commentary makes it even more enriching.

Area and Castle Scenes: Monselice and the De Clermont Residence

Next, the tour moves to Monselice, a fortified town with impressive walls and a medieval feel. This is where most of the series filming took place, adding a layer of authenticity to the experience. The highlight is the Castello di Monselice, which in the series is the home of the vampire family De Clermont — a majestic residence brimming with tapestries, armors, and an imposing fireplace. Entry to the castle is included, allowing you to walk through the very rooms where Diana and Matthew’s love story unfolds on screen.

Visitors frequently comment on how well-preserved and furnished the castle feels, making it easy to imagine the series’ characters moving through these grand halls. One reviewer shared how they loved the “beautifully furnished rooms and the great hall where Diana and Matthew dance,” which captures the magic of the setting.

The Landscape of the Euganean Hills

The Parco Regionale dei Colli Euganei offers a stunning backdrop of volcanic hills, vineyards, and olive groves — the perfect setting for the series’ outdoor scenes. A short stop here lets you admire the landscape that inspired the show’s fantasy world. The hills, rising up to 600 meters, provide a lush and peaceful environment that’s a stark contrast to busy city life.

The scenery is especially noteworthy for its vineyards, which lead nicely into the wine tasting. Travelers tell us how exceptional the views are, with one noting that it’s “beautiful to see the rolling vineyards and small medieval villages dotted along the hills.”

Wine Tasting at Azienda Agricola Loreggian

The final highlight is a wine tasting at a local winery, Azienda Agricola Loreggian, along the road traveled by Diana and Matthew in their Tesla. Here, you’ll sample some of the region’s finest wines, accompanied by a platter of local cold cuts and cheeses. The tasting experience is often praised for its quality — the wines are described as delicious and well-priced, perfect for pairing with the local produce.

Many reviewers, like one who called the winery “such a lovely place,” appreciate how this part of the tour ties the landscape to Italian culinary traditions.

Practical Details and Value

The tour, priced at approximately $290.36 per person, offers excellent value considering the inclusion of castle entrance, guided walks, wine tasting, and transportation. It lasts about six hours, making it a full but relaxed day trip. Pickup is available, which simplifies logistics, especially for those staying in Padua.

While most participants found the pace comfortable and the guides very knowledgeable, the tour’s small group size ensures a quiet, intimate experience—ideal for those who prefer meaningful conversations and personalized attention.

The flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour adds peace of mind, allowing you to plan confidently.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for fans of the series eager to visit actual filming locations, as well as history enthusiasts drawn to medieval villages and castles. Wine lovers will enjoy the tasting, which complements the scenic landscape beautifully. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a relaxed, enriching day out of Venice or Padua, especially if they appreciate a guided, small-group setting.

It’s also suitable for those who prefer a slower exploration style, allowing plenty of time at each stop to absorb the scenery or take photos without feeling rushed.

The Sum Up

The “Discovery of Witches” tour from Padua offers a thoughtful blend of series-inspired locations, historic sites, and Italian countryside. Its small-group format, knowledgeable guides, and inclusion of wine tasting make it a well-rounded and immersive experience.

If you enjoy a leisurely pace, authentic scenery, and a touch of fantasy, this trip will satisfy your curiosity while delivering genuine cultural insights. The variety of stops keeps the day engaging—whether wandering medieval streets, exploring castle interiors, or sipping local wines.

This tour would appeal most to fans of the series, history buffs, and wine enthusiasts looking for a peaceful yet captivating adventure beyond the typical tourist spots. It’s a ticket to not only see the scenery but also feel like you’re stepping into the fictional world of A Discovery of Witches.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately six hours, providing enough time at each stop without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
The price includes entrance to the Castle of Monselice, guided walk in Arquà Petrarca, the winery visit and wine tasting, transportation, and an experienced tour leader.

Is pickup available?
Yes, pickup is offered, making the day more convenient, especially if you’re staying in Padua.

What is the tour’s group size?
Limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

Are tickets booked in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book about 40 days ahead since the tour is popular.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time.

Is the tour suitable for children or non-drinkers?
Most travelers can participate, and non-drinkers can enjoy the sightseeing and scenery.

Are there any physical requirements?
The tour involves walking in medieval villages, castle interiors, and a light hike to Monte Ricco if you choose. It’s suitable for most able-bodied travelers.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are advised, especially since you’ll be walking around ancient streets and possibly on uneven terrain.

Can I bring my service animal?
Yes, service animals are allowed.

This well-paced, themed exploration of Italy’s Euganean Hills offers a perfect blend of fantasy, history, and local flavor — a truly memorable way to connect with the land and the series’ magic.