I’ve visited Soave several times now, and each trip feels like rediscovering something quietly wonderful. Whether it’s a new view, a hidden alley, or the way the light hits the castle walls, Soave always brings something different, especially when you experience it with someone else.
Just 30 minutes from Verona and 40 minutes from Vicenza, Soave is perfect for duos looking to swap speed for connection. It’s not about checking off sights—it’s about lingering.
Soave can also be a perfect place for solo travelers with a bit of planning, and I am sure if you asked nicely some of the cantinas would love to help you discover their wines.
If you’re starting your trip in Verona, you might want to pair your Soave day trip with a few slow, scenic days in the city itself.
Read my Ultimate Guide to Verona for First-Timers
Sipping wine. Taking pictures. Laughing your way through cobbled streets. If you and your travel partner crave something thoughtful and unhurried, Soave will deliver.
Table of Contents
How to Get to Soave from Verona or Vicenza
Getting to Soave isn’t just easy—it sets the tone for the kind of travel experience you’re about to have. Whether you arrive by train or car, the transition from city bustle to vineyard views happens quickly.
The regional train lines from Verona and Vicenza are reliable and scenic, with San Bonifacio station serving as your quiet entry point into wine country. It’s small, relaxed, and just a short ride from Soave itself, making the last leg of your journey feel like a soft landing.
Map of Soave and Driving Routes
Closest Airport to Soave
If arriving from different cities or airports in Italy or even Austria here are the distances from each Airport.
| Airport | Distance to Soave (km) | Estimated Travel Time by Car |
|---|---|---|
| Verona Villafranca (VRN) | 35 | 35–40 min |
| Venice Marco Polo (VCE) | 110 | 1 hr 15 min |
| Milan Linate (LIN) | 160 | 1 hr 50 min |
| Milan Malpensa (MXP) | 200 | 2 hr 15 min |
| Innsbruck (INN) | 260 | 3 hr |
By Car
Soave is easily reached via the A4 motorway. Free and paid parking options are available just outside Porta Verona.
| City | Distance to Soave (km) | Estimated Driving Time |
|---|---|---|
| Verona | 30 | 30–35 min |
| Vicenza | 40 | 40–45 min |
| Venice | 110 | 1 hr 15 min |
| Milan | 160 | 1 hr 50 min |
| Florence | 230 | 2 hr 30 min |
| Rome | 510 | 5 hr 30 min |
| Innsbruck | 260 | 3 hr |
Recommended parking spots in Soave:
PRO-TIP: Please Mind the ZTL signs, you’ll incur steep fines if violated!
By Train and Bus:
- By Train + Bus: Take a regional train to San Bonifacio (20–25 minutes from Verona, 25–30 minutes from Vicenza).
- From there, a local bus (Line 130 or 226) or a short taxi ride (about €10–15) brings you to Soave in under 15 minutes.
| Departure City | Arrival Station | Estimated Travel Time by Train | Train Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Verona Porta Nuova | San Bonifacio | 20–25 min | Frequent regional trains |
| Vicenza | San Bonifacio | 25–30 min | Frequent regional trains |
| Milan Centrale | San Bonifacio | 1 hr 30 min (direct or with transfer in Verona) | Hourly (some direct, some with changes) |
| Florence Santa Maria Novella | San Bonifacio | 2 hr 45 min (via Bologna and Verona) | Every 1–2 hrs |
| Innsbruck Hbf | San Bonifacio | 5–6 hr (via Verona, changes required) | Limited, 1–2 connections daily |
When to Visit Soave
Soave is worth visiting year-round, but the best times to experience its full charm are during spring (April to June) and early fall (September to October).
The weather is mild, the vineyards are lush, and crowds are lighter than in the peak summer season. These months are ideal for wandering the historic streets, enjoying e-bike rides through the countryside, and making the most of outdoor dining.
Soave’s Local Festivals
If your trip aligns with one of the town’s events, you’re in for something special, you can always check Pro Loco Soave:
Festa dell’Uva (Grape Festival) – Held every early September, this is Soave’s most celebrated event. It honors the grape harvest with wine tastings, parades, music, and local food. Originally a way to give thanks for a successful harvest, it still carries that spirit of gratitude and celebration today.
Soave Versus – Typically hosted in late August or early September, this wine-centric event features tastings of Soave wines from dozens of local producers, paired with food and seminars. It’s a great way to understand the breadth of what this small region offers.
Medieval Festival – Occasionally held in spring or fall, this celebration transforms Soave’s streets with period costumes, performances, and traditional crafts. It’s a step back in time and an atmospheric way to experience the walled town.
Planning around these festivals can add cultural richness to your visit—but even on a quiet weekday, Soave feels rooted in tradition and built for unhurried exploration.
Morning: Wandering Through Medieval Streets
The first thing you’ll notice is the town’s striking medieval walls. They wind up the hillside like a stone crown toward Castello di Soave , Soave’s fortress. Walk through Porta Verona and you’ll be in a world of cobblestone alleys, ivy-covered walls, and sleepy cafés.
Grab a cappuccino and a brioche at a local bar in Piazza Antenna and enjoy a slow, quiet start to your day. Soave rewards those who take their time.
Morning: Castle Climb with a View
After having breakfast, head uphill to Castello di Soave. The walk is short but steep, so bring sturdy shoes and refill your water bottle at the public fountain before starting.
The castle itself is small, but the battlement views are worth it: vineyards roll into the horizon, and on a clear day, the Alps peek through the distance. It’s quiet, peaceful, and a great spot for reflection.
Opening hours
Tuesday to Sunday: 9:00-12:00, 15:00-18:00
Closed on Mondays
Price for admission:
€7 for adults and €4 for children
Midday: Wine Tasting at Cantina del Castello
Head to Cantina del Castello, nestled just below the castle. Their tastings are friendly and informative—perfect for travelers like you who are curious about Italian wines. You can actually choose from quite an extensive list of tastings that they offer.
Behind the Scenes at Cantina del Castello
One of the most memorable parts of my visit to Soave was touring Cantina del Castello, a winery steeped in history and heart. Our guide, Stefanie, who works at the winery and loves what she does, welcomed us with warmth and deep knowledge. The tasting experience was intimate, informative, and thoughtfully paced.
Why Soave Only Makes White Wine
Stefanie explained early on that this winery exclusively focuses on white wine. Red wine production is not allowed in Soave and must take place in nearby Mylia. Every tank, every vine, every harvest here is devoted to capturing the crisp, mineral-driven character that defines Soave wines.
Did you know? Soave wines are 100% white, by law. Red wines can’t even be produced in the region.
The Art of Winemaking: Patience Over Volume
The winery produces about 80,000 bottles a year, all made in-house. They rely on stainless steel tanks with precise temperature control. Stefanie walked us through how the team can pause and restart fermentation depending on the conditions, ensuring each batch turns out just right.
Not every tank was full when we visited—some of the vines are still young and aren’t producing yet. But rather than rush the process or bring in grapes from elsewhere, Cantina del Castello stays committed to authenticity. They make just six wines, and they make them with care.
Sparkling Wines, Skin Contact, and Soave’s Signature Style
We also got a sneak peek at their newest sparkling wine, recently bottled and soon to be released. Stefanie explained the nuances—sparkling wines require more acidity and less sugar, while dessert wines need higher sugar and precise fermentation that stops at 14% alcohol.
Winemaking tip: Some of their wines undergo 100 days of skin contact, even using dried grapes. This adds subtle sugars, texture, color, and body.
A Family Legacy and a Community Tradition
Tucked in a quiet corner near the tanks, Stefanie showed us a small space filled with flowers and family photos, honoring the winery’s roots. Her father, she told us, once served as president of the local winegrowers’ association. You could feel her pride. It’s not just a job—it’s a family tradition deeply tied to the community.
She also told us about Festa dell’Uva, Soave’s annual wine festival in early September. While today it’s a vibrant celebration of local wine and culture, it began as a harvest ritual—an expression of gratitude for surviving another year.
Festa dell’Uva: This September festival was once a spiritual rite for grape harvests. That reverence still lingers.
History Beneath the Castle Walls
Before we wrapped up, Stefanie led us down into the oldest part of the cellar—the namesake of Cantina del Castello. The stone-walled space once connected directly to the castle through an underground tunnel.
The land belonged to the powerful Sanbonifacio family, one of whom is said to have been a Templar knight. It’s likely this cellar was part of a monastery where knights would stop to rest and resupply. This all predates Soave’s own city walls.
Standing there in the cool, quiet cellar, surrounded by centuries of winemaking and whispered history, I was reminded of how deeply stories like these are rooted in the wine we drink.
Bike Routes for Mindful Travel
When you do pop in ask Cantina Del Castello about their bike rental. Stefanie mentioned they were about to start this, so it’s wise just to ask about this for your group!
This is where slow travel shines—you can stop when you want, soak in the views, and go at your own pace. Ask for the backroad loop route to avoid traffic.
Dinner in Soave
End your day with a meal at L’Osteria di Via Roma, just off the main square. This cozy spot serves refined versions of local dishes like handmade pasta, seasonal vegetables, and of course, more Soave wine.
WISE WORDS: Coming by car? Get a designated driver!
Where to Stay in Soave for Every Type of Traveler
Soave’s Old Town Stays & Vineyard Views
Whether you’re after a charming B&B inside the historic walls or a countryside escape surrounded by vines, the map below makes it easy to find and book your ideal spot.
Prefer walkable locations? Look near Porta Verona or Piazza Antenna.
- B&B Antique Mason – A cozy guesthouse with vineyard views, local character, and a homemade breakfast.
- Wine Resort Corte dei Soavi – A scenic countryside stay surrounded by vineyards, ideal for a slow and peaceful experience.
If you don’t know where to stay in Soave, have you checked out my Where to Stay in Verona Guide?
Map: Your Solo Travel Itinerary in Soave
Use this interactive map to find your way around Soave, from the train station and castle to wine tasting stops and scenic e-bike routes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Soave
Is Soave a good day trip from Verona or Vicenza?
Yes. Soave is just 30 minutes from Verona and 40 minutes from Vicenza by car, or accessible via train to San Bonifacio and a short bus or taxi ride.
Can I visit Soave without booking a tour?
Absolutely. Soave is walkable, relaxed, and easy to explore on your own. A wine tasting at Cantina del Castello and a self-guided e-bike ride offer plenty without needing a formal tour.
Do I need to book wine tastings in advance?
Yes. Cantina del Castello requires advance reservations and a minimum of two people for tastings.
Is Soave suitable for solo travelers?
While it’s ideal for couples or friends (especially for wine tastings), solo travelers can still enjoy the town’s quiet streets, the castle, and cafes. Just note the two-person minimum for most winery experiences.
When is the best time to visit Soave?
Spring and early fall offer the best weather. If you’re interested in local culture, time your trip for Festa dell’Uva, Soave’s annual wine harvest festival in early September.
Is the castle open year-round?
Castello Scaligero is open Tuesday through Sunday, with morning and afternoon hours. It’s closed on Mondays. Double-check current hours before you go.
Where should I stay if I want to spend the night?
Top choices include Antica Locanda B&B, Hotel Roxy Plaza, and Wine Resort Corte dei Soavi—each offering different vibes depending on whether you want historic charm or vineyard views.
Final Thoughts
Soave is the kind of place that doesn’t need flash to leave a lasting impression.
It’s easy to reach, beautiful without trying too hard, and full of things best experienced slowly, together. If you’re planning a girls’ weekend, a romantic day trip, or a quiet catch-up with your best travel buddy, Soave might just be one of the best low-key places to visit in Europe.
Ready to plan your visit?
