“Discovery of Witches” Euganean Hills Tour from Padua

If you’re a fan of the HBO/Sky TV series inspired by Deborah Harkness’s All Souls Trilogy, this tour promises a fascinating blend of film locations, medieval charm, and vineyard vistas. It’s a 6-hour deep dive into the landscapes that brought the series’ enchanting love story between Diana Bishop and Matthew De Clermont to life. Led by knowledgeable guides, this experience combines picturesque villages, majestic castles, and tasty local wines — all infused with a touch of magic.

One of the things we love about this tour is how it balances the fictional world with real-world beauty. From walking through ancient villages to tasting exquisite wines, every stop feels thoughtfully curated. However, keep in mind that the tour moves at a brisk pace, fitting a lot into a single day, which might be a consideration if you prefer more relaxed sightseeing. It’s perfect for fans of the series, lovers of medieval architecture, or anyone eager to explore Italy’s scenic countryside with a twist of storytelling.

This tour is ideal for those who appreciate authentic experiences, beautiful landscapes, and a dash of pop culture. Whether you’re a series enthusiast, a history buff, or just after a charming day out, you’ll find plenty to enjoy. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this experience stand out, and how it can turn your trip to Padua into something truly memorable.

Key Points

• Film Location Magic: Visit real sites featured in the series, like Arquà Petrarca and Monselice, bringing fiction to life.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Chiara impress with their knowledge of land, history, and behind-the-scenes insights.
• Authentic Tastings: Enjoy a wine tasting at a well-regarded winery, complemented by local cured meats and cheeses.
• Majestic Castles and Villages: Step inside the Cini Castle and stroll through medieval streets that add historical depth.
• Beautiful Landscapes: The Euganean Hills offer stunning views of vineyards, olive groves, and volcanic hills.
• Personalized Experience: Small group size (max 8 travelers) ensures a more intimate and flexible tour.

A Detailed Look at the Discovery of Witches Tour

Starting Point: A Charming Medieval Village – Arquà Petrarca

The adventure begins in Arquà Petrarca, renowned as Italy’s second most beautiful medieval village. The narrow, cobbled streets wind through stone houses, ancient walls, and peaceful piazzas. Our guide, Chiara, shares stories about the village’s history and its connection to the series, making the experience both educational and picturesque. The environment here is especially evocative — perfect for fans who want to see where Diana and Matthew might have wandered. Visitors noted that Chiara’s depth of knowledge and friendly attitude added a special touch, turning a simple walk into a lively storytelling session.

Monselice and the Cini Castle

Next, we head to Monselice, a walled town that served as a filming location. The highlight here is the Cini Castle, which in the series is portrayed as the home of the vampire family De Clermont. Stepping inside the castle’s rooms — decorated with tapestries, armors, and a regal fireplace — transports you into the series’ world. The guide points out details like the grand hall where Diana and Matthew share their dance, making the scenes feel more real.

We loved the way the castle’s architecture and furnishings echo the series’ gothic aesthetic. The admission is included, and the experience is made more engaging by the guide’s stories about the film set and its connection to the actual history of the castle.

Exploring the Euganean Hills

The tour then takes us into Parco Regionale dei Colli Euganei, where volcanic hills rise dramatically from the plain. Here, you’ll get sweeping vistas of vineyards, olive groves, and medieval villas. This part of the trip balances sightseeing with tranquility. The landscape’s natural beauty is worth the short stop, and those interested in outdoor activities might find a moment to enjoy a walk or simply soak in the views.

Wine Tasting at Azienda Agricola Loreggian

After exploring the hills, we head to a local winery for a tasting. The vineyard is surrounded by the same lush landscapes Diana and Matthew traveled through in their Tesla. The tasting includes local wines, complemented by cold cuts and cheeses, offering a taste of authentic regional flavors. The guide explains the wine-making process, adding context to the tasting.

Guests have commented favorably on the quality of the wines and the friendly atmosphere, with one reviewer noting that the oil from the olive oil factory was delicious and the wines were at excellent prices. The experience is relaxed yet informative, perfect for wine enthusiasts or anyone wanting to sample local produce.

Optional: Monte Ricco Walk

For those with energy left, a walk up Monte Ricco offers a bit of exercise and more stunning views. The series features scenes where Diana and Matthew arrive on horseback before a key meeting, so it’s an immersive way to see the landscape that inspired their story. This optional activity caters to active travelers and adds a layer of adventure to the day.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

Transport and Group Size

The tour includes pickup and drop-off, making logistics simple. With a small group maximum of 8 travelers, you’re likely to enjoy a more personalized experience, with plenty of opportunity for questions and interactions. The tour lasts about 6 hours, starting at 9:30 am, which gives enough time for a relaxed but fulfilling day.

Price and Value

At $290.36 per person, the tour offers a well-rounded package: guided visits to castles and villages, a wine tasting, and transportation. While it might seem steep, the inclusion of entrance fees, tastings, and expert guides adds significant value — especially considering the personalized attention and depth of knowledge provided.

Booking and Cancellation

Reservations typically need to be made around 40 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. The free cancellation policy offers flexibility, allowing you to cancel up to 24 hours beforehand for a full refund, which is reassuring if your plans change.

Authentic Experiences That Leave an Impression

One reviewer described their experience as a “peaceful, detailed and personalized tour,” highlighting the guide Chiara’s thorough knowledge and friendly demeanor. She’s praised for her ability to share curious facts and stories that deepen the understanding of each site, making the visit feel both fun and educational.

Another wrote about the olive oil factory and the winery, emphasizing the delicious flavors and good prices. The combination of scenery, history, and culinary delights makes this tour appealing for those who want more than just sightseeing — this is about savoring the land’s heritage.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits fans of the series, wanting to visit actual filming locations and enjoy the story’s scenery. It’s also a great option for history and architecture lovers, given the castles and medieval villages. Food and wine enthusiasts will appreciate the tastings, while outdoor lovers can enjoy optional walks and panoramic views.

If you’re looking for a small-group, personalized tour that balances storytelling with authentic regional experiences, this is a perfect choice. However, if your schedule is tight or you prefer leisurely, unhurried sightseeing, keep in mind that the tour moves at a brisk pace.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
The tour is generally suitable for most travelers, including those who enjoy walking and sightseeing. It’s not specifically geared toward children, but families with interested older kids might enjoy it.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, transportation to and from the starting point in Padua is included, making logistics straightforward.

What is included in the price?
The price covers all entrance fees (Castle of Monselice), guided walks, wine tasting with local cold cuts and cheeses, and transportation. Everything not explicitly mentioned as included is extra.

How long are the stops?
Stops vary from about 1 to 2 hours, allowing enough time to explore, take photos, and enjoy the surroundings without feeling rushed.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours before the start. The full amount is refunded, offering peace of mind.

Is the tour physically demanding?
Most of the activities involve walking in villages and around castles, which is manageable for most travelers. The optional walk up Monte Ricco is more active.

When should I book?
Booking about 40 days in advance is recommended to secure a spot, especially during peak seasons.

The “Discovery of Witches” tour from Padua offers a unique blend of pop culture, history, and scenic beauty. It’s especially appealing if you’re keen on seeing authentic filming locations, exploring medieval towns, and enjoying regional wines. The small-group format ensures personalized attention, and the knowledgeable guides make the experience richer.

While it’s a full day packed with sights and tastes, the careful curation of stops means you’ll come away with a deeper appreciation of the Euganean Hills’ beauty and a few new stories to tell. Whether you’re a superfan of the series or a lover of Italian history and landscapes, this tour delivers a meaningful and memorable experience.

If you’re looking for a well-organized, culturally immersive, and fun-filled day that connects fiction with reality, this is a tour worth considering. Just bring your curiosity and a camera to capture the stunning views and fairy-tale settings that inspired one of television’s most beloved fantasy romances.