Nestled in the rolling hills of northeastern Italy, there lies a sparkling escape that entices wine lovers and scenic-road trip enthusiasts alike — welcome to Prosecco Road. Stretching through the heart of the Veneto region between the charming towns of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene, this wine route is as much about breathtaking vistas and medieval villages as it is about Italy’s world-renowned sparkling wine: Prosecco. From vineyard visits to leisurely sips of effervescent brilliance under the sun, Prosecco Road offers a sensory journey unlike any other. Whether you’re a seasoned sommelier or a curious traveler, every twist and turn invites you to taste, explore, and relax.

What to see

The rolling vineyards of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene

The Prosecco Hills, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offer a mosaic of terraced vineyards clinging to steep hillsides. The visual charm here is incredible — undulating green hills, sun-kissed rows of Glera grapevines, and medieval villages perched like crowns atop the landscape. The towns of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene are the bookends to Prosecco Road and are both rich in history and culture.

• Conegliano: Known as the “gateway to Prosecco,” this town boasts an old castle with sweeping views and the prestigious Scuola Enologica, Italy’s oldest wine school.
• Valdobbiadene: Home to some of the finest prosecco producers, it sits amidst steep vineyards and offers unforgettable panoramas.

Medieval villages and rustic charm

As you meander through the route, you’ll come across enchanting villages where time seems to have paused.

• San Pietro di Feletto: Visit its ancient Romanesque church with beautifully preserved frescos and an outdoor colonnade offering vineyard views.
• Follina: Famous for its atmospheric Abbey of Santa Maria, a serene place ideal for a quiet moment of reflection.
• Cison di Valmarino: A storybook town with artisan boutiques, stone bridges, and the majestic Castelbrando above.

What to do

Go wine tasting at family-run wineries

Prosecco Road is best experienced with a glass in hand. The region is dotted with small, family-owned wineries where you can sample a variety of Prosecco styles — from Brut to Extra Dry to the rare Cartizze.

• Visit Azienda Agricola Nino Franco: A renowned cellar in Valdobbiadene offering tours and elegant tastings in a modern setting.
• Explore Ruggeri Winery: Known for its refined Cartizze and sparkling rosés, perfect if you’re looking to try something unique.
• Sample at Le Colture: A picturesque estate run by the same family for generations, where you can enjoy a glass in the vineyards.

Booking a tasting in advance is recommended, especially during weekends and harvest season.

Cycle or hike through the Prosecco Hills

For those craving outdoor activity, the Prosecco Hills offer endless cycling routes and hiking trails that reward you with panoramic views and vineyard picnics. E-bike rentals are available in towns like Valdobbiadene and Conegliano, making even the steepest trails accessible.

Popular routes include:

• The Prosecco Loop: A 40 km circular bike trail connecting several cantinas and picturesque villages.
• Pianezze Trail: A hilly hike suitable for intermediate trekkers, leading through shaded woods and open vineyards.

Take a Prosecco masterclass

Several wineries and enoteche (wine bars) along the route offer immersive experiences where you can learn the intricacies of Prosecco production. You’ll gain insights into the Charmat (tank) method used to produce the signature bubbles and discover how terroir and technique influence the final product.

Itineraries

1-day highlight itinerary

If you’re short on time, a one-day tasting escape is perfectly feasible.

1. Start in Conegliano with a visit to the Wine School and Castle for views over the vineyards.
2. Drive to San Pietro di Feletto and taste at a small local winery.
3. End the day in Valdobbiadene with a tasting at a traditional cellar and a relaxing aperitivo in Piazza Marconi.

3-day immersive getaway

A long weekend allows for deeper exploration and lingering moments among the vines.

1. Day 1: Explore Conegliano, visit the castle, then travel to a winery in Refrontolo for your first tasting session.
2. Day 2: Cycle from San Pietro di Feletto to Rolle, stopping at viewpoints and wineries along the way. Enjoy a countryside lunch with local pairings.
3. Day 3: Visit Follina’s abbey, then tour a Cartizze producer in Valdobbiadene before concluding with a terrace dinner.

7-day wine and culture trail

For those looking to fully slow down and savor the region, a full week combining wine, heritage, and wellness is ideal.

1. Include additional towns like Vittorio Veneto and Asolo.
2. Attend a cooking class or prosecco cocktail workshop.
3. Enjoy spa time at Castelbrando or a rural wellness center amid the vineyards.

Local cuisine

Flavors of Veneto

Prosecco pairs wonderfully with the local cuisine, which emphasizes fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from the surrounding hills and rivers.

• Risotto al Prosecco: A creamy rice dish subtly infused with Prosecco, often garnished with local herbs or cheese.
• Polenta e funghi: Slow-cooked cornmeal served with wild mushrooms and sometimes topped with mountain cheese.
• Carpaccio di trota: Thinly sliced freshwater trout, often marinated in citrus and Prosecco, a refreshing starter.

Where to eat

From rustic osterias to elegant ristorantes, food options cater to every palate and price range.

• Osteria Senza Oste: A self-service picnic stop near Valdobbiadene with panoramic tables, where you pay based on trust and enjoy local salumi and cheese platters.
• Trattoria alla Cima: Famous for traditional dishes and views over the Cartizze hills.
• Locanda da Lino: A timeless dining institution in Solighetto, known for refined presentations and an impressive wine list.

Budget tips

Traveling Prosecco Road on a budget

Though the region is entwined with luxury wine tourism, there are plenty of ways to visit without splurging.

• Stay in agriturismi: Rural guesthouses offer farm-style accommodations, including breakfast and often dinner, at affordable prices.
• Buy tasting bundles: Many wineries offer packages that combine tastings, tours, and nibbles at a reduced cost — ideal for small groups.
• Use public transportation: While having a car is ideal, buses between Conegliano and Valdobbiadene are available. Taxi-sharing is also an option for getting between towns and wineries.
• Picnic in the vineyards: Local grocers and enoteche sell regional cheeses, cold cuts, and bread. Pick up supplies and enjoy a panoramic, low-cost lunch outdoors.

When to go

Visiting in spring or early fall ensures mild weather, fewer crowds, and good accommodation rates. Harvest season (typically September) is vibrant but busier, so book lodging and tastings early to avoid disappointment.

Budget-friendly tastings

Several smaller producers offer free or low-cost tastings paired with tours of their cellars. Look out for names like Casa Belfi and Ca’ dei Zago, who welcome guests with warm hospitality and authentic experiences.

Final thoughts

Journeying through Prosecco Road isn’t just about wine — it’s about discovering the essence of a landscape where tradition and taste go hand-in-hand. From the first glass to the last golden sunset over endless vines, it’s a destination that stirs all the senses. Whether you’re tracing the gentle roads by car, bicycle, or on foot, you’ll find that Prosecco Road invites not just indulgence but also contemplation. Pack light, sip slowly, and let the hills of Veneto uncork a lifetime of Italian memories.