The certifiable winter wonderland of the Aosta Valley is one of the most enchanting places in Italy. Popular during the winter as a ski destination, this region of Northern Italy offers plenty to do no matter the time of year. In fact, the spring, summer, and fall can be excellent times to experience the numerous natural parks and historic castles within the region. Despite the fact that the Aosta Valley is the smallest region in Italy, it is packed with remarkable natural beauty, significant cultural sights, and a storied past. This itinerary will help you discover all the must-sees, including the city of Aosta, Courmayeur, a few of the historic castles, and, of course, the Grand Paradiso National Park.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS: Aosta, Courmayeur, Aosta Castles: Fenis, Bard, Savoia, Grand Paradiso National Park
Day 01: OUT-BOUND FLIGHT
Board your flight and your unforgettable adventure to the Aosta Valley begins!
Day 02: AOSTA
After landing in Turin Airport, meet with your private driver and travel north into the region of Aosta Valley. Upon arrival in Aosta, the regional capital, check into your centrally located hotel. Take some time to explore the city center and admire the breathtaking Alpine scenery that surrounds the city. The Aosta Valley may be Italy’s smallest region, but it offers plenty of remarkable places that are sure to enchant travelers.
In the evening, savor your first taste of Aosta’s regional cuisine before settling in for the night at your hotel.
Day 03: AOSTA
Once you have finished breakfast, meet with your private guide and begin your walking tour of Aosta’s city center. The city’s historic monuments include the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and San Giovanni Battista, the Church of Sant’Orso, and the Arch of Augustus.
After the tour, stop for lunch at a family-owned restaurant. In the afternoon, spend time in Piazza Émile Chanoux, Aosta’s main square, which is home to the City Hall and other historic buildings, such as coffee shops. History lovers may wish to spend time at the Saint-Martin-de-Corléans Megalithic Area. The site spans approximately 2.5 acres and attests to the prehistory and history of the area from the Neolithic period to the Ancient Romans, the Middle Ages, and the Modern Era. Here, travelers can explore the necropolis and admire an impressive collection of megalithic monuments as well as other artifacts.
Conclude your day with a nice dinner featuring a local specialty, such as carbonade valdostana. Then, return to your hotel for an overnight stay.
Day 04: COURMAYEUR
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel, then meet with your private driver and travel to the resort town of Courmayeur. Positioned at the base of Monte Bianco (Mont Blanc), Courmayeur is surrounded by the vertiginous peaks of the Alps. Immerse yourself in the impressive Alpine scenery during a ride on the cable car, where it is possible to catch glimpses of famous mountains, such as the Matterhorn and Monte Rosa.
Along the way, the cable car stops in the picturesque Saussuera Alpine Botanical Garden, which covers an area of nearly 2 acres. Located more than 7,000 feet above sea level, it is among the highest botanical gardens in Europe. Due to its elevation, the park is covered in snow for the majority of the year and is typically accessible only during the summer. The landscapes consist of pastures, wetlands, and slopes, and there are plenty of Alpine wildflowers to admire.
After taking in these impressive natural wonders, return to Aosta where you will enjoy dinner followed by an overnight stay at your hotel.
Day 05: AOSTA CASTLES: FENIS, BARD, SAVOIA
Delve into the history of the Aosta Valley by visiting a few of its centuries-old castles and fortresses. Once you finish breakfast, meet with your private driver and embark on an unforgettable excursion. The first stop will be the medieval Fénis Castle, which is characterized by towers and turrets. Located in the town of Fénis, the castle also features a courtyard with frescoes as well as a weapons room and a chapel.
Continue your journey through the countryside to reach Fort Bard, a structure with origins that date back to the sixth century, though the current building has undergone extensive renovations. Positioned at the entrance to the Aosta Valley, the fort extends over a hill. Nowadays, the fort is the site of the Museum of the Alps.
The final stop will be the Savoia Castle, which is the “newest” of the three. Located in Gressonay-St-Jean, construction of the castle concluded in the early twentieth century. For many years, the castle served as a summer residence for Queen Margherita. Inside the grey stone walls, the castle houses elegant rooms with period furniture, paintings, and tapestries on display. Do not miss the surrounding garden, which features a variety of Alpine plants.
In the evening, travel back to Aosta for dinner at a family-owned restaurant. Afterwards, return to your hotel for the night.
Day 06: GRAND PARADISO NATIONAL PARK
Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel, then prepare for your final excursion in the Aosta Valley. This day will be dedicated to the Grand Paradiso National Park. Named after the impressive Grand Paradiso Mountain, the vast landscapes of the park consist of mountains, glaciers, and meadows. Within its borders are several different species of animals, including ibex, marmots, badgers, eagles, and butterflies. Visitors to this park can partake in hiking, trekking, biking, or simply admire the wildlife and surrounding nature.
After a day of exploration, return to Aosta where you will conclude your trip with a memorable dinner featuring local specialties.
Day 07: RETURN FLIGHT
Return to Turin in the morning where you will board your return flight. Arrivederci Aosta Valley!
Thank you once again Tommaso for helping my clients have the best experience possible in Italy! Susie B. Town & Country Travel Carroll,
Ciao, ti ringrazio molto per un tempo cos grande che abbiamo avuto a Courmayeur. Tutto era grande, l'Italia, la gente, meteo, Sci, grappa, g
PACKAGE START AT $ 4,899 Per person INCLUDES (*):
- Round trip flights in economy class with in-flight meals, drinks, and entertainment (**)
- Transportation by Private Car with Driver as per itinerary;
- 5 Nights accommodation in 4* Category Hotels or Similar in double/twin rooms with private facilities;
- Daily Buffet Breakfast;
- 3 Dinners as per itinerary;
- 3 Half day English Speaking Local and expert Tour Guide (Aosta, Aosta Castles : Fenis, Bard, Savoia);
- Panoramic Visits as per itinerary;
- Vat Taxes and service Charges.
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED:
- All Land & Air prices: Additional U.S. & Foreign Departure Taxes and Surcharges Fee(s) assessed by the Airlines.
- Hospitality city tax which varies by city and hotel category. Where applicable it must be paid locally to the hotel.
- Porterage service.
- Entrance Fees to Monuments or Museums, Tips, Extras.
- All which is not listed under “PACKAGE INCLUDES”.
GENERAL CONDITIONS:
(*) Rate based on two adult persons sharing a double or twin bedded room with private bathroom. Single rooms are available at an additional supplement. Children’s, triple room rates and alternative accommodation arrangements are available upon request. (Additional and different charges may apply).
(**) Rate based on NYC departure gates. Alternative U.S. departure cities available upon request at 1-866-GO ITALY or Email Trips2italy .
