
Villa Valmarana ai Nani
An elegant 17th-century villa in Vicenza, famed for Tiepolo frescoes and a whimsical garden of 17 stone dwarfs.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere

Villa Valmarana ai Nani
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
An elegant 17th-century villa in Vicenza, famed for Tiepolo frescoes and a whimsical garden of 17 stone dwarfs.
"The frescoes are some of the best I have seen and tell such wonderful stories."

👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking in the gardens and villa. :athletic_shoe: Wear comfy shoes!
🎧 Audio Guide Recommended
Enhance your visit with the audio guide to understand the stories behind the frescoes. :iphone:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Tiepolo Frescoes
Main Villa
Immerse yourself in the vibrant frescoes by Giambattista and Giandomenico Tiepolo, a true artistic marvel.

The Garden of Dwarfs
Gardens
Wander through enchanting gardens adorned with 17 whimsical stone dwarf sculptures.

The Secret Wood
Wooded Area
Discover a peaceful oasis with ancient trees, a lavender field, and an oriental garden.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Tiepolo's Masterpieces
Explore the Enchanting Dwarf Garden
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking in the gardens and villa. :athletic_shoe: Wear comfy shoes!
🎧 Audio Guide Recommended
Enhance your visit with the audio guide to understand the stories behind the frescoes. :iphone:
🌳 Explore the Woods
Don't skip the 'Bosco' (wooded area) for a tranquil escape and unique garden features. :evergreen_tree:
📸 Panoramic Views
The gardens offer stunning panoramic views that are perfect for photos. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking in the gardens and villa. :athletic_shoe: Wear comfy shoes!
🎧 Audio Guide Recommended
Enhance your visit with the audio guide to understand the stories behind the frescoes. :iphone:
🌳 Explore the Woods
Don't skip the 'Bosco' (wooded area) for a tranquil escape and unique garden features. :evergreen_tree:
📸 Panoramic Views
The gardens offer stunning panoramic views that are perfect for photos. :camerawithflash:
💰 Entrance Fee
Some find the entrance fee a bit high, but many agree the frescoes are worth it. :moneybag:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Villa Valmarana ai Nani for its stunning Tiepolo frescoes and beautifully maintained gardens, particularly the unique 'Garden of Dwarfs'. The villa's authentic atmosphere and panoramic views are also frequently highlighted. Some guests find the entrance fee to be on the higher side, but most agree the artistic and scenic value justifies the cost.
"Beautiful Villa.
Located on top of a hill, beautifully kept and decorated on the inside with antique furniture and frescos which take you back in time.
The gardens of the villa are well taken care of and have lots of green areas, flowers and roses. The villa is surrounded by woods and gardens therefore the views from both the villa and gardens look like paintings. Very panoramic.
The villa has always belonged to the Valmarana family.
Tickets can be bought on site and they have leaflets in different languages with explanations of each room that can be visited."
Fran Fulvi
"Wonderful! A real home. And the forestry building is facinating. The gardens are well planted and labelled too. Well worth a visit and a stroll. I walked from La Rotunda up to Valmarana Villa along a path (about 5-10mins) then after visiting the lovely house, walked back down to La Rotunda and the car park through the gardens."
Christina Cattaneo
"To be honest, we only went because it was Monday and everywhere was closed in Vicenza. What a mistake that woukd have been! The frescoes in the main house and some of the best I have seen and tell such wonderful stories. It's a little expensive but well worth getting the audio guide."
Gregg Davies
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Villa Valmarana ai Nani is located just outside the center of Vicenza. You can reach it by a short taxi ride or a pleasant walk from the city center, especially if you're coming from La Rotonda. Some visitors enjoy walking between La Rotonda and Villa Valmarana ai Nani, which takes about 5-10 minutes through the gardens. :bus: Public transport options might be limited, so check local schedules.
Yes, there is parking available for visitors. This makes it convenient for those arriving by car. :car:
Absolutely! Many visitors combine a trip to Villa Valmarana ai Nani with nearby attractions like Villa La Rotonda. The walk between them is scenic and takes about 5-10 minutes through the gardens. :walking:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can be purchased on-site at the villa. It's advisable to check their official website for current opening hours and potential online booking options, especially during peak tourist seasons. :ticket:
The entrance fee is considered by some to be on the higher side, but many visitors find the experience, particularly the Tiepolo frescoes, to be well worth the cost. :moneybag: Check their official website for the most up-to-date pricing.
While specific guided tours might vary, an audio guide is highly recommended to fully appreciate the history and art within the villa. Leaflets in multiple languages are also available to explain each room. :iphone:
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to consult the official Villa Valmarana ai Nani website for the most accurate and up-to-date information on their operating hours before your visit. :clockwithmagnifier:
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed inside the villa, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions, especially regarding flash photography, which can damage delicate frescoes. :camerawithflash:
The Tiepolo frescoes offer incredible photo opportunities inside. Outside, the 'Garden of Dwarfs' and the panoramic views from the gardens are highly photogenic. The 'Bosco' also provides unique, atmospheric shots. :iphone:
Drone usage is typically restricted in historical sites and private properties like Villa Valmarana ai Nani to protect the heritage and ensure visitor safety. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise. :noentrysign:
🎫 🌳 Gardens & Grounds
The gardens are famous for their unique collection of 17 stone dwarf sculptures, known as 'Nani,' which add a whimsical charm. You'll also find ancient trees, a lavender field, an oriental garden, and the 'Bosco' (wooded area) with its own serene paths. :evergreen_tree:
To fully explore the gardens, including the 'Bosco' and the dwarf sculptures, allocate at least 1-2 hours. The grounds are extensive and offer many picturesque spots to linger. :stopwatch:
While some main paths in the gardens are generally accessible, the terrain can be uneven in places, especially in the wooded areas. It's advisable to check accessibility details directly with the villa if this is a concern. :wheelchair:
🎫 🎨 Art & History
The magnificent frescoes were painted by the renowned Venetian artists Giambattista and Giandomenico Tiepolo in 1757. Their work is a highlight of the villa's artistic heritage. :art:
The stone dwarf sculptures, or 'Nani,' are a distinctive feature of the villa's gardens. They are said to represent characters from the commedia dell'arte and are linked to a tragic legend associated with the villa. :statueofliberty:
Built in 1669, the villa has been owned by the Valmarana family for centuries. Its artistic importance is cemented by the Tiepolo frescoes, making it a significant example of Venetian Rococo art and architecture. :scroll:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the frescoes inside are beautiful, younger children might find them less engaging than the outdoor features. Consider bringing an audio guide or preparing some fun facts about the dwarfs and the Tiepolos to keep them interested. The walk between attractions like La Rotonda and Villa Valmarana ai Nani is also manageable for families.
🎨 Art & History Enthusiasts
Don't overlook the 'Garden of Dwarfs' and the 'Bosco', which add layers of cultural and natural history to the visit. The unique blend of artistic masterpieces and charming, story-filled grounds makes for a rich and rewarding experience. An audio guide is highly recommended to fully grasp the significance of the artworks and the villa's history.
🚶♀️ Couples & Romantic Getaways
Consider visiting during the late afternoon to enjoy the beautiful golden hour light casting a romantic glow over the gardens. The villa's historical charm and artistic beauty make it an ideal spot for quiet contemplation and shared appreciation of art and nature.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Artistic Legacy of the Tiepolos
Visitors often describe the frescoes as 'some of the best I have seen,' highlighting their immersive quality and the stories they tell. The detail and artistry are so profound that they are considered a major draw for art lovers and history buffs alike. The villa provides leaflets in various languages and an audio guide to help visitors understand the context and symbolism behind each painted masterpiece, enriching the overall appreciation of this artistic treasure.
Experiencing these frescoes is not just about viewing art; it's about stepping into a painted world. The sheer scale and beauty of the Tiepolo works make Villa Valmarana ai Nani a must-visit for anyone interested in Italian art history.
Wandering the Enchanting Gardens and the 'Bosco'
Further exploration leads to the 'Bosco', a beautifully restored wooded area that feels like a secret oasis. This part of the estate features ancient trees, a fragrant lavender field, and even an oriental garden with a pagoda, offering a diverse range of landscapes to discover. Visitors praise the well-maintained paths and the serene atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful walk and a break from the more formal parts of the villa. The combination of artistic interiors and diverse, enchanting gardens makes Villa Valmarana ai Nani a multifaceted destination.
A Glimpse into Venetian Aristocratic Life
The villa is not just a museum; it's described as a 'real home' by visitors, which contributes to its unique charm and welcoming feel. This sense of lived history is palpable, making the visit more personal and engaging than a typical sterile museum experience. The integration of the frescoes with the villa's architecture and furnishings creates a harmonious and immersive environment that speaks volumes about the era's artistic and social customs.
Events are also hosted here, showcasing the villa's continued role as a venue for exclusive experiences, further highlighting its enduring appeal and its function as a living piece of history. This blend of historical preservation and contemporary use ensures that Villa Valmarana ai Nani remains a vibrant testament to Venetian heritage.






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