If your spring travel mood board doesn’t yet feature a glass of Pinot Grigio against a backdrop of stunning Renaissance architecture, it’s time for a quick update. The heart of Verona is set to beat to the rhythm of wine from April 10 to 12, as the city transforms for the 2026 edition of Vinitaly and The City.
Far from a standard trade show, this highly anticipated off-salon event is a three-day toast dedicated to wine lovers from across Italy and beyond. It is the perfect excuse to swap the bustling streets of London for the romantic allure of an Italian UNESCO World Heritage site.
Sip, Socialize, and Step Back in Time
This year, the festival is shifting gears to put a massive spotlight on wine tourism, offering an elevated urban experience. The itinerary is a curated mosaic of around 70 events, which include:
- Exclusive masterclasses and guided tastings.
- Literary appointments, engaging wine talks, and elegant dancing evenings.
- Access to the legendary Arena for a truly historic experience.
The architectural heart of the festival revolves around a stunning historic triangle: Piazza dei Signori, Cortile del Tribunale, and Cortile Mercato Vecchio. Under the watchful statue of Dante in Piazza dei Signori, visitors can explore the Grand Enoteca of the Consorzio Tutela Vini DOC Delle Venezie, while the Loggia Antica will host the magic of modern mixology with top-tier bartenders.
For those looking for the ultimate Instagram-worthy moment, postcard-perfect toasts are returning to the terrace of the Torre dei Lamberti, soaring 84 meters high.
The Official Pour
The official wine for the 2026 edition is the crisp and refreshing Pinot Grigio Doc delle Venezie. The ribbon-cutting ceremony and official toast will take place on Friday, April 10, at 6:00 PM to kick off the weekend.
Beyond the City Limits
The indulgence doesn’t stop when the weekend ends. In a brilliant new pilot initiative to expand the festival’s footprint, special tasting and experience tokens will unlock an extended journey along the Valpolicella Wine Route. This post-festival program features tastings across 15 exquisite local wineries from April 13 through May 3.
The Details to Know:
- Dates & Times: Friday, April 10 (6:00 PM – 11:00 PM), Saturday, April 11 (3:00 PM – 11:00 PM), and Sunday, April 12 (3:00 PM – 11:00 PM).
- Tickets: Tasting booklets are available online for €18.00 until April 9. During the event days, they can be purchased online or at the ticket offices in Piazza dei Signori for €22.00.