Grazzano Visconti is a pretty medieval village, located about 10 kilometres from Piacenza.
The history of this small village revolves around its castle.
Castle of Grazzano was built in the 14th century at the behest of the Visconti family, and, after a series of vicissitudes, Giuseppe Visconti renovated it and transformed the surrounding farmhouses into realistic medieval dwellings.
The village of Grazzano Visconti, therefore, came to life in 1900 as an authentic medieval village and, although it is an ideal destination at any time of year, a visit during the Christmas period, with its decorations and markets, is certainly very characteristic.
Grazzano Visconti: Christmas markets and more. What to see
It is really pleasant to walk through the streets of the historical centre, built on a square plan with towers delimiting the walls, and admire the craft workshops.
The most beautiful, and typical, are the iron-working shops, but there are also classic souvenir shops with lots of children’s toys such as Harry Potter wands or swords from Lord of the Rings.
Among the cobbled lanes with an antique flavour, the wonderful churches, and the hidden corners where you can browse, you can spend half a day in a village that seems truly enchanted.
You can also take a look at the Wax Museum, the Torture Museum (accessible from 6 years of age) and the Corte Vecchia with its permanent exhibition of agricultural tools from the past.
And then, of course, there is the Castle.
Castle of Grazzano Visconti
The castle of Grazzano Visconti is still owned by the Visconti family, but it is possible to visit it through guided tours lasting one hour.
Castle is surrounded by a splendid park of over 15 hectares, characterised by centuries-old trees, which can also be visited.
The latter has no architectural barriers and can also be entered with buggies and prams.
Prices are as follows:
Castle
Full price ticket 16,00€
Reduced ticket 6/16 years 8€
NB The castle tour is not suitable for children under 6 years of age.
Cumulative castle park (duration 1h45)
Cumulative full price 23,00€
Concessions 6/16 years 13,00€
For up-to-date timetables and prices, please have a look at the official website.
Grazzano Visconti Christmas markets
The streets of the village come alive during the Christmas period with the enchanting Christmas markets. Stalls and lights provide a truly magical atmosphere.
In addition, Father Christmas is waiting for children to send their letters directly to the post office!
Update 2023: the Grazzano Visconti Christmas markets will be held from 11 November 2023 to 07 January 2024.
Grazzano Visconti: Christmas markets and more. Other events
In addition to the Christmas markets, Grazzano Visconti organises events and special days throughout the year.
On Halloween, for example, theme dinners are organised in the castle and treasure hunts for children in the park.
In September, the Magical Day is celebrated: duels and challenges that are sure to thrill even children.
On the last Sunday in May, on the other hand, there is the Historical Procession, or a re-enactment of medieval traditions.
Where to eat
Inside the village, there are several bars and restaurants, always quite crowded at weekends.
In fine weather, you can use the fantastic picnic area for a picnic lunch in the open air. It is located in the lawn in front of the small square, a few metres from the car park.
If you are looking for a little place off the tourist track, a couple of kilometres away from the village of Grazzano, you will find theAntica Osteria Al Cavaliere Nero where we found a homely atmosphere and excellent typical dishes.
How to get there, parking and Camper Stop Area
The nearest motorway exit to Grazzano Visconti is Piacenza Sud.
Continue along the ring road in the direction of Bettola Stadio and then along the SP654 for 18 kilometres (twenty minutes from the motorway exit).
At the two entrance gates to the town, there are several pay car parks for cars and motor homes.
The rates are as follows: Car 5.00€/day, Coach and Camper 12.00€ /day, Motorbike 2.00€/day.
Where to sleep
La Maison De Vì – Surrounded by greenery, La Maison De Vì is a tastefully restored farmhouse offering family rooms and breakfast included in the price.
The location is excellent for exploring Grazzano Visconti and the other characteristic villages – Book here.
Read more:
2. Bobbio
3. Vigoleno
