I’ve been thinking about writing something for the upcoming Valentine’s Day holiday, and every time I do, an image of a broken heart that I saw on the side of a building pops into my mind.
I thought that seemed like the ultimate anti-Valentine’s Day image, until I saw this article on the Condé Nast Traveler website – and suddenly I knew what the image of the heart was trying to tell me.
The Condé Nast article was actually a photo essay, called 10 Alternatives To Famous Romantic Spots For Valentine’s Day. The list included the Italian town of Bassano del Grappa, which just happens to be where I saw and photographed the heart on the wall. It’s a beautiful little town on the Brenta River, just an hour away from Venice.
The image that inspired this photo essay. I don’t know who the true artist is. If you do, please let us know in the comments. And maybe buy him? her? a shot of Grappa.
I happen to agree with the editors at Condé Nast Traveler – Bassano del Grappa would be a great place for a Valentine’s date, or a romantic date, any time of the year. The architecture, frescoes, cafes, and location at at the foot of the Alps on the Brenta River, all add up to a delightful place to spend a day. If you’re exploring the Veneto for a few days, Bassano del Grappa would be a good place to base yourself.
How To Spend A Romantic Day In Bassano Del Grappa
Read on for my photo essay of a day in Bassano del Grappa. If you happen to be broken-hearted, perhaps the natural beauty of the town and a nice shot of Grappa will cheer you up.
The architecture of Bassano del Grappa is common for the Veneto region. Arcades add a romantic element.
The colors of the Veneto and flower boxes give Bassano del Grappa a romantic feeling.
Remants of the many lovely frescoes that used to adorn these buildings.
Grappa! The window at Grapperia Nardini. This is located just at the end of the famous Ponte Alpini. Don’t miss it. If you’re feeling a bit blue it will cheer you up. If you’re feeling fine, you’ll feel even better!
The beautiful Ponte Alpini. It was under scaffolding when I was there so I am using this shot from the Wiki Creative Commons, by Museshare. As you Walk across the bridge, Nardini is on your left.
Piazza Garibaldi. It’s the first big piazza you come to if you are walking from the train station. There are many chic cafes around the piazza. Grab a table and have a romantic al fresco date; weather permitting of course.
Palazzo Comune. The clock is from the 13th century and works today.
My view of Bassano del Grappa on a cloudy day. How much more romantic can it be?
Want to know more about Bassano Del Grappa? Read this post from Italy Heaven
Also, read this article, 10 Best Things To Do In Bassano del Grappa
For art lovers visiting the area this article provides information on an exhibition by the namesake family, Bassano, and other exhibitions in the Veneto region.
To get to Bassano del Grappa you can take a direct train from Venice or Padua. Check the Tren Italia website for schedules.
You can find more of my images from Bassano Del Grappa on Instagram.
18 comments
I live in Bassano…and never thought of if as a romantic place! Thank you for the new perspective…
Ciao Caterina, Mille Grazie for the nice comment. I was in Bassano for a dental appointment and thought I might stay there for some time but I came back to the states. It seems like a very nice place to live.
Hi, I’m from Bassano 🙂 You asked the author of the broken heart captured in your pic: actually, in the beginning, it was just an act of vandalism. There are plenty of hearts pictured all around the city centre. For what I know the “artist” (or artists) is still unknown. Eventually the citizens of Bassano have got used to see these red hearts and probably now it would be a suffered decision to clean them away.
I found them really whimsical and enjoyed them a lot. Thank you for your information!
Grazie!
I think anywhere in Italy would be perfect for romance… or gluttony! Thanks for putting Bassano on my radar.
You got that right! You’re welcome!
When I think of romantic destinations, I think of place where you can discover your own version of it- not necessarily a guide’s book version. I tend to look for charming, uncrowded cultural or nature spots. Bassano Del Grappa looks the perfect combination of all of those things. Thanks for sharing this lovely town.
Thanks for the thoughtful comment Mary.
This really shows the power of art in that a single image could send your mind racing and fingers tapping on the keyboard! It also shows the power of travel to cleanse the cloying pressures of holidays like Valentine’s Day! I’d never heard of this town before but am now intrigued…
Well said! I think I”m going to use that! 🙂
Really does seem like a great alternative to the regular go to romantic spots. I agree that architecture can play a big role in the atmosphere and feel of a city when it comes to romance. Gotta love Italy for that! Ponte Alpini would be the most amazing spot for a retreat!!
Ponte Alpini is very romantic. And don’t forget, grappa can help. 🙂
It looks wonderful. I would love to explore any city in Italy that isn’t completely crowded during the height of tourist season like Venice.
Exactly. This place is lovely and so close to Venice.
This is so gorgeous. I had never even heard of this place!!
I had heard of it but never dreamed I’d go there. It was a medical tourism visit that motivated me.
Well you know how much I love Bassano…..great photos and info!
Thank you Diana! Yes. I can see why you love it, pretty little place.