Discovering Valtellina means immersing yourself in a land rich in artistic, historical, and cultural treasures, nestled among mountains, vineyards, and breathtaking landscapes. A fascinating journey from village to village, through historic residences, castles, churches, and open-air museums, unveiling a unique heritage in the heart of Lombardy.
Tirano: The Perfect Starting Point to Explore Valtellina
Our itinerary begins in Tirano, a true Alpine crossroads and the terminus of the Rhaetian Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This charming historic town captivates visitors with its elegant noble residences, picturesque alleys, and stunning scenery stretching across vineyards, apple orchards, and forests.
Culture and Spirituality: The Sanctuary of the Madonna of Tirano
A must-see stop is the majestic Renaissance-style Sanctuary of the Madonna of Tirano, considered the most important religious building in Valtellina. Located just steps from the town center, the sanctuary is an architectural masterpiece blending art, faith, and history.
Palazzo Salis: A Glimpse into 17th-Century Valtellina
Just a short walk from the sanctuary lies Palazzo Salis, now a museum, renowned for its frescoed rooms and perfectly manicured Italian garden. A prime example of a Valtellinese noble residence, it tells centuries of history through art and architectural detail.
The Rock Engravings of Grosio: Prehistoric Art in the Open Air
In Grosio, you’ll enter a true open-air archaeological park: the Rock Engravings Park features over 5,000 prehistoric carvings etched into the stone, some dating back to the late Neolithic period. A fascinating experience for history and archaeology enthusiasts.
Palazzo Besta in Teglio: The Renaissance in Valtellina
Among the area’s cultural highlights, Palazzo Besta in Teglio is a must-visit. One of the finest Renaissance palaces in Northern Italy, it houses extraordinary frescoes—including scenes from Virgil’s Aeneid—and beautiful courtyards with double loggias. A true gem of Lombard Renaissance art.
The Castles Trail: Where Nature Meets History
For those looking to combine nature walks with cultural exploration, the Castles Trail (Sentiero dei Castelli) is highly recommended. This 30+ km pedestrian route winds through vineyards, orchards, medieval castles, towers, churches, and archaeological sites. An ideal path to experience the most authentic side of Valtellina, where natural beauty meets centuries of history.
Valtellina offers a perfect balance between cultural heritage and unspoiled landscapes. Set off to discover this extraordinary region, where every village tells a story and every stone holds a treasure.
Top experiences
Discover the art, history, and authentic traditions of Middle Valtellina
All experiences 24 experiences
Where to stay
Discover hotels, B&Bs, and apartments to suit every travel style
Events and festivals
Discover the events and festivals you can't miss
Teglio Winter Run
Meet on 15 February at Prato Valentino The sunny adventure area of Prato Valentino kicks off the Teglio Winter Run, the winter event dedicated to runners, mountain enthusiasts, and lovers of ski mountaineering and snowshoeing.This year, the race will start in the morning under full sun, promising an even more spectacular experience. Race Route: 10 […]
Festa par i sciori – Festival of Hospitality
“Festa par i Sciori” is the Festa dell’Ospite in Aprica, now in its 18th edition! On the evening of Friday, 20 February 2026, the district of S. Pietro prepares to welcome “i Sciori” — the visitors — with an event that has long been a symbol of hospitality and warm welcome. The district, which over […]
Spring Fair
The Tirano Spring Fair is a traditional event that brings the town center to life with the arrival of the warmer season. This year, it will take place on Saturday, March 29, featuring stalls with a variety of goods, local products, and handicrafts along Piazza Basilica, Viale Italia, and the surrounding streets (Via Pedrotti, Viale […]
Alpine Culture Festival in Tirano
Three Days of Celebration to Honor the Communities of Making The communities of making represent the beating heart of the Alps: artisans and masters who preserve and pass down ancient knowledge, transforming their passion into gestures, objects, and collective memory. At the Festa della Cultura Alpina, these experiences become stories, encounters, and testimonies—offering a unique […]
Pentecost Fair
The appointment with the Pentecost Fair returns, scheduled for Sunday 24 and Monday 25 May 2026, one of the most anticipated and well-attended fair events in the area. The fair takes place over two consecutive days, coinciding with Pentecost Sunday and the following Monday, and features a large general market, with exhibitors offering both food […]
Stelvio Santini
Stelvio Santini 2026: The Ultimate Challenge on Valtellina’s Legendary Climbs If you love cycling and are looking for a true challenge among Alpine peaks, the Stelvio Santini is the perfect event. Now in its 14th edition, this granfondo is renowned for its meticulous organization and its two undisputed stars: Mortirolo and Stelvio, epic climbs that […]
Nova Eroica Switzerland 2026: Gravel and Adventure Between Valtellina and Valposchiavo
Nova Eroica Switzerland 2026 is set to energize the cycling season with a unique event dedicated to lovers of gravel riding and white roads, blending nature, sport, and conviviality. The event will take place on 13 June 2026 in Poschiavo (GR), in Valposchiavo, offering an Alpine cycling experience that combines sporting spirit with the discovery […]
Doppia W Ultra
The Doppia W is Back: Sport, Nature, and Spectacular Landscapes Between Italy and Switzerland The Doppia W returns, the event that combines sport, nature, and breathtaking landscapes across Italy and Switzerland. Valtellina and Valposchiavo become the perfect stage for trail running enthusiasts and nature adventurers on Friday 19 and Saturday 20 June 2026. Routes for All Levels: […]
