Some who visit Italy come for the wine, others for the history, and others for the art, but what if you could combine all three? Italy’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites offer the perfect intersection of culture, history, and natural beauty, and for vinophiles, some of these sites double as gateways to Italy’s winemaking traditions.
Italy is a global leader in wine production, accounting for nearly 20% of the world’s wine. It’s no surprise that many of its UNESCO-designated treasures are found in regions synonymous with exceptional wine and the food that pairs perfectly with it.
With 59 UNESCO sites, Italy ranks as the top country in the world for preserved cultural and natural heritage, making it the ultimate destination for those who crave a sensory journey through history and terroir.
In this guide, you’ll uncover five UNESCO World Heritage Sites that every wine lover should explore. These aren’t just destinations—they’re places where you can experience the best of Italian culture, history, and, of course, wine. Whether you’re a sommelier, a history buff, or simply someone who loves a great glass of wine, these sites deserve a place on your Italian travel bucket list!
#1: The Prosecco Hills of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene – Veneto
Recognized as an UNESCO Heritage Site in 2019, The Prosecco Hills of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene are defined by their steep, terraced vineyards known as ciglioni, a cultivation method dating back to the 17th century. These hills are not only the birthplace of the sparkling Prosecco Superiore DOCG but also a living example of sustainable viticulture.
The region’s unique microclimate, shaped by its rolling terrain and proximity to the Alps, has long nurtured the Glera grape, the foundation of Prosecco. However, the hills are more than a wine lover’s paradise—they are home to ancient villages, historic estates, castles, and family-owned vineyards all of which you can experience when you join us on the Northern Italian Delights tour.
At the heart of the Prosecco Hills is Conegliano, home to Italy’s first wine school, established in 1876. Known as the Scuola Enologica di Conegliano, this institution played a pivotal role in modernizing winemaking techniques and preserving the traditions of Prosecco production.
The surrounding villages, such as Valdobbiadene, Rolle, and Follina, offer a glimpse into the region’s cultural and architectural heritage. These charming hamlets, many recognized among Borghi più belli d’Italia (Italy’s Most Beautiful Villages), are characterized by cobblestone streets, medieval churches, and panoramic views of the vineyard-clad hills.
Whether strolling through the historic centers of its villages, admiring the ingenuity of terraced vineyards, or tasting wines crafted with care, the Prosecco Hills offer an unforgettable journey into Italy’s rich winemaking history.
But, a glass of Prosecco is best served with artisanal cheese! Which is exactly why on our Northern Italian Delights tour, we take you to an award-winning cheese producer right in the heart of the Prosecco Hills, where you’ll have the chance to taste a 100-year cheesemaking tradition. Followed by a curated lunch overlooking the sprawling vineyards, in an area of the Prosecco Hills all too often missed by the masses. Which means on this trip you’ll be able to relax and fully immerse yourself in the viticulture of some of Italy’s top independent winemakers without feeling like you’re just another tourist taking a cookie-cutter wine tasting you found on TripAdvisor.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image alt=”Valley in Italy under blue skies | The Italian On Tour” title_text=”Top 5 UNESCO Heritage Sites for Wine Lovers-5″ url=”https://theitalianontour.com/group-travel” align=”center” align_tablet=”center” align_phone=”” align_last_edited=”on|desktop” admin_label=”Image” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ custom_margin=”||-3px|||” custom_padding=”||2.5%|||” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” src=”https://theitalianontour.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/7-min.png” sticky_enabled=”0″][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text module_id=”christmaseve” _builder_version=”4.26.1″ text_font=”||||||||” header_font=”||||||||” header_2_font=”whitney-book|||on|||||” header_2_font_size=”24px” header_3_font=”whitney-book|||on|||||” header_3_font_size=”20px” max_width_tablet=”” max_width_phone=”” max_width_last_edited=”on|desktop” module_alignment=”center” custom_margin=”||-3px|||” custom_padding=”40px||40px||true|” global_colors_info=”{}”]#2: Mount Etna – Sicily
Mount Etna is not only one of the most active volcanoes in the world, but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site located on the eastern coast of Sicily.
The fertile volcanic soil of Mount Etna has nurtured vineyards for centuries. With soils rich in minerals, unique grape varieties are cultivated here, particularly Nerello Mascalese and Nerello Cappuccio for reds, and Carricante for whites.
Nerello Mascalese, often compared to Pinot Noir for its elegance and finesse, is the star of Etna Rosso wines. Carricante, with its crisp acidity and citrusy profile, dominates Etna Bianco, offering a refreshing counterpart to the region’s robust reds.
For wine lovers, visiting Mount Etna offers the chance to tour boutique wineries, taste exceptional wines, and witness the striking landscapes that shape this unique terroir. Many wineries offer tastings that pair their wines with local Sicilian cuisine, creating a truly immersive experience. Knowing what food to pair with the local wines is just as important as discovering the wines themselves.
Plan a visit to Mount Etna before or after your time with us on Italy Uncorked – the perfect tour for the wine lover in Italy’s Most Underrated Hidden Wine region: Umbria!
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image alt=”Building near the water in Italy | The Italian On Tour” title_text=”Top 5 UNESCO Heritage Sites for Wine Lovers-8″ url=”https://theitalianontour.com/group-travel” align=”center” align_tablet=”center” align_phone=”” align_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ custom_margin=”||-3px|||” custom_padding=”||2.5%|||” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” src=”https://theitalianontour.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/3-min-1.png” sticky_enabled=”0″][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text module_id=”christmaseve” _builder_version=”4.26.1″ text_font=”||||||||” header_font=”||||||||” header_2_font=”whitney-book|||on|||||” header_2_font_size=”24px” header_3_font=”whitney-book|||on|||||” header_3_font_size=”20px” max_width_tablet=”” max_width_phone=”” max_width_last_edited=”on|desktop” module_alignment=”center” custom_margin=”||-3px|||” custom_padding=”40px||40px||true|” global_colors_info=”{}”]#3: City of Vicenza and the Palladian Villas – Veneto
The Palladian Villas of the Veneto may be celebrated for their architectural brilliance, like we mentioned in our Top Five UNESCO Heritage Sites for Architecture Lovers, but they also hold a special place in the hearts of wine lovers!
Designed by Renaissance architect Andrea Palladio, these grand estates are surrounded by some of the Veneto region’s most celebrated vineyards, offering the perfect blend of history, culture, and wine.
Built during the 16th century, the Palladian Villas were designed as countryside retreats for Venetian nobility, who managed their agricultural estates from these residences. Many of these estates included vineyards, establishing a long-standing connection between the villas and winemaking. The surrounding land continues to produce some of Veneto’s most distinctive wines.
The Palladian Villas are scattered across the Veneto, a region synonymous with exceptional wines. Wine lovers visiting these villas will find themselves in the heart of renowned wine territories such as Soave, Valpolicella, and of course, Prosecco!
Today, wine enthusiasts can visit wineries located near or on the grounds of these historic estates. Many of these wineries offer tastings of local varietals alongside guided tours that explore the intersection of Palladian architecture and winemaking tradition.
Imagine sipping a glass of Valpolicella while overlooking the villa’s elegant colonnades and manicured gardens–which is exactly what you’ll do on Northern Italian Delights! With a visit to the Vill and a complete tasting led by one of five sisters that call it home, you’ll walk the grounds of a Palladian estate known for top-notch olive oil and organic wine production inside one of Italy’s smallest DOC production zones.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image alt=”Purples grapes in bunches | The Italian On Tour” title_text=”Top 5 UNESCO Heritage Sites for Wine Lovers-1″ align=”center” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ custom_margin=”||5px|||” custom_padding=”23px|||||” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” src=”https://theitalianontour.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/13-min.png” sticky_enabled=”0″][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text module_id=”christmaseve” _builder_version=”4.26.1″ text_font=”||||||||” header_font=”||||||||” header_2_font=”whitney-book|||on|||||” header_2_font_size=”24px” header_3_font=”whitney-book|||on|||||” header_3_font_size=”20px” max_width_tablet=”” max_width_phone=”” max_width_last_edited=”on|desktop” module_alignment=”center” custom_margin=”||-3px|||” custom_padding=”40px||40px||true|” global_colors_info=”{}”]#4: Vineyard Landscape of Langhe-Roero and Monferrato – Piedmont
Located in the hills of Piedmont, The Vineyard Landscape of Langhe-Roero and Monferrato is one of Italy’s most iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Celebrated for stunning scenery and unparalleled winemaking tradition, these hills have been shaped by centuries of tradition.
Piedmont is synonymous with some of the most celebrated wines in the world, including Barolo, Moscato d’Asti, and Barbera, and this UNESCO area is at the very heart of its production.
The region’s winemaking history stretches back thousands of years, with techniques passed down through generations. Monferrato, in particular, has deep roots in sparkling wine production, while Langhe is celebrated for its innovation in viticulture. These traditions continue to evolve, combining ancient knowledge with modern precision to produce world-class wines.
Learn more about Italy’s Top Wine Regions!
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image alt=”Vineyard in Italy under cloudy skies | The Italian On Tour” title_text=”Top 5 UNESCO Heritage Sites for Wine Lovers-7″ align=”center” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ custom_margin=”||6px|||” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” src=”https://theitalianontour.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/5-min-1.png” sticky_enabled=”0″][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text module_id=”christmaseve” _builder_version=”4.26.1″ text_font=”||||||||” header_font=”||||||||” header_2_font=”whitney-book|||on|||||” header_2_font_size=”24px” header_3_font=”whitney-book|||on|||||” header_3_font_size=”20px” max_width_tablet=”” max_width_phone=”” max_width_last_edited=”on|desktop” module_alignment=”center” custom_margin=”||-3px|||” custom_padding=”40px||40px||true|” global_colors_info=”{}”]#5: Val d’Orcia – Tuscany
Located in Southern Tuscany, Val d’Orcia is a UNESCO Heritage Site for not only its outstanding natural beauty, but also its winemaking history. Designated as a UNESCO site in 2004, the rolling hills, charming medieval towns, and world-renowned vineyards make this a must-visit for wine lovers.
Home to some of Tuscany’s most prestigious wines, like Brunello di Montalcino, Rosso di Montalcino, Val d’Orcia has a winemaking history dating all the way back to the Etruscans, with innovative techniques in sustainable viticulture still alive today. Many wineries in the area are organic or biodynamic with a focus on respecting the land and its natural resources.
Just across the Tuscan border and a stone’s throw from Val d’Orcia itself, Umbria is another winemaking region that is often overlooked. Offering equally breathtaking landscapes with a fraction of the tourist crowds, the region’s unspoiled beauty allows for a more peaceful and authentic experience. With one caveat – you’ll have to skip the Umbrian area of Montefalco which has become exceedingly popular in recent years if you want to escape the crowds and cookie cutter experiences.
That’s why when you join us on Italy Uncorked for three experiences at award-winning wineries we take you to wine production zones that have yet to succumb to the throngs of tourists you’ll find in Tuscany and select areas of Umbria. Allowing you to have a more relaxing Italian experience which makes for an easeful rewarding trip where you never have to worry about who is going to be your designated driver.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image alt=”Colorful Buildings in Cinque Terre | The Italian On Tour” title_text=”Top 5 UNESCO Heritage Sites for Wine Lovers-6″ align=”center” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ custom_margin=”||11px|||” custom_padding=”21px|||||” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” src=”https://theitalianontour.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/6-min.png” sticky_enabled=”0″][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text module_id=”christmaseve” _builder_version=”4.26.1″ text_font=”||||||||” header_font=”||||||||” header_2_font=”whitney-book|||on|||||” header_2_font_size=”24px” header_3_font=”whitney-book|||on|||||” header_3_font_size=”20px” max_width_tablet=”” max_width_phone=”” max_width_last_edited=”on|desktop” module_alignment=”center” custom_margin=”||-3px|||” custom_padding=”40px||9px||false|” global_colors_info=”{}”]UNESCO Heritage Sites in Wine Regions
Now that we’ve listed the top UNESCO Heritage Sites that pertain specifically to wine, we’ll also mention some other notable sites that are in wine-producing regions and worth a visit!
Cinque Terre
Inscribed in 1997 as part of the official UNESCO World Heritage Site titled “Portovenere, Cinque Terre, and the Islands of Palmaria, Tino, and Tinetto,” this designation recognizes the cultural significance of the picturesque villages, terraced vineyards, and coastal landscape. Sciacchertra, a famous dessert wine made from partially dried grapes, and the Cinque Terre DOC are both produced here.
The City of Urbino
Nearby the wine-producing region of Bianchello del Metauro in the Marche region, The City of Urbino is celebrated for its Renaissance Legacy and known as the birthplace of the artist Raphael. Also included on our list of UNESCO Sites for Architecture Lovers, guests on our Italy Uncorked tour will get a private walking tour of the city, with a homebase in nearby Verdicchio Wine Country of Umbria!
Alberobello
Although not recognized for wine but rather its unique cone-shaped Trulli homes, which you’ll visit on Passport to Puglia, Alberobello is contained within one of Puglia’s Largest DOC Regions–Gioia del Colle.
Venice & The Venetian Lagoon
While not specifically recognized for wine production, this site is the only place where the Dorana grape is produced! You’ll visit one of the only wineries that produces Malvasia delle Lipari on Northern Italian Delights.
Italy’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites are not just monuments to the past—they are living, breathing parts of Italy’s cultural fabric, where art, history, and nature intertwine in unforgettable ways.
From the historic vineyards of the Prosecco Hills in Veneto to Mount Etna in Sicily, each destination offers a unique lens to appreciate Italy’s remarkable wine heritage.
As you plan your next adventure, consider visiting these UNESCO-listed wine regions to enjoy the perfect blend of history, culture, and, of course, exceptional wines.
But, don’t leave without knowing the ten mistakes that even smart travelers can make – click here for your FREE Italy Insider’s Guide!
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text module_id=”christmaseve” _builder_version=”4.26.1″ text_font=”||||||||” header_font=”||||||||” header_2_font=”whitney-book|||on|||||” header_2_font_size=”24px” header_3_font=”whitney-book|||on|||||” header_3_font_size=”20px” max_width_tablet=”” max_width_phone=”” max_width_last_edited=”on|desktop” module_alignment=”center” custom_margin=”||-3px|||” custom_padding=”40px||9px||false|” global_colors_info=”{}”]
SAVE THIS POST FOR YOUR NEXT ITALY TRIP AND VISIT THE TOP FIVE
UNESCO HERITAGE SITES FOR WINE LOVERS
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_blurb use_icon=”on” font_icon=”"||divi||400″ icon_color=”#cc9933″ _builder_version=”4.20.2″ custom_padding=”||0px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_image alt=”Pinterest Pin for The Top 5 UNESCO Heritage Sites for Wine Lovers” title_text=”The Top 5 UNESCO Heritage Sites for Wine Lovers” align=”center” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” custom_margin=”||74px|||” custom_padding=”||50px||false|false” hover_enabled=”0″ box_shadow_style=”preset3″ global_colors_info=”{}” src=”https://theitalianontour.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/The-Top-5-UNESCO-Heritage-Sites-for-Wine-Lovers.png” sticky_enabled=”0″][/et_pb_image][et_pb_post_nav in_same_term=”off” _builder_version=”4.16″ title_font=”whitney-book|||on|||||” title_font_size=”16px” title_font_size_tablet=”16px” title_font_size_phone=”14px” title_font_size_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_css_links=”color: #333333″ use_border_color=”off” saved_tabs=”all” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_post_nav][et_pb_heading title=”EXPERIENCE THE REAL ITALY WITH THESE TRIPS” _builder_version=”4.25.0″ _module_preset=”default” title_font=”mostra-regular|600|||||||” title_text_align=”center” title_text_color=”#333333″ title_font_size=”33px” custom_padding=”58px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_heading][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.25.0″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”||62px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.25.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_portfolio posts_number=”1″ include_categories=”1067″ show_categories=”off” show_pagination=”off” _builder_version=”4.25.0″ _module_preset=”default” title_font=”|||on|||||” title_text_align=”center” custom_padding=”21px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_portfolio][et_pb_portfolio posts_number=”1″ include_categories=”1064″ show_categories=”off” show_pagination=”off” _builder_version=”4.25.0″ _module_preset=”default” title_font=”|||on|||||” title_text_align=”center” custom_padding=”21px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_portfolio][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.25.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_portfolio posts_number=”1″ include_categories=”1065″ show_categories=”off” show_pagination=”off” _builder_version=”4.25.0″ _module_preset=”default” title_font=”|||on|||||” title_text_align=”center” custom_padding=”21px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_portfolio][et_pb_portfolio posts_number=”1″ show_categories=”off” show_pagination=”off” _builder_version=”4.25.0″ _module_preset=”default” title_font=”|||on|||||” title_text_align=”center” custom_padding=”21px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_portfolio][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.19.0″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#f9f9f9″ width=”90%” max_width=”95%” module_alignment=”center” custom_margin=”|auto|2px|auto||” custom_padding=”50px|10px|50px|10px|true|true” box_shadow_style=”preset3″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https://theitalianontour.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/best-italy-tours-for-food-and-wine-lovers-to-escape-the-crowds-the-italian-on-tour-min.png” alt=”best italy tours for food and wine lovers” title_text=”best italy tours for food and wine lovers to escape the crowds the italian on tour-min” align=”center” _builder_version=”4.19.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_signup provider=”mailerlite” mailerlite_list=”info@theitalianontour.com|42767274″ last_name_field=”off” success_action=”redirect” success_redirect_url=”https://theitalianontour.com/thank-you-page-top-10-mistakes-even-smart-travellers-make/” button_text=”Yes! I want my FREE ITALY INSIDER GUIDE!” _builder_version=”4.19.0″ _module_preset=”default” background_enable_color=”off” custom_button=”on” button_text_size=”14px” button_text_color=”#333333″ button_bg_color=”#cc9933″ button_border_width=”0px” button_font=”|700||on|||||” border_style_all=”none” box_shadow_style_button=”preset3″ global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_signup][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”||0px|||” use_custom_width=”on” width_unit=”off” custom_width_percent=”60%” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”]
