Borghetto
|
Latest page update: 24 May 2025
|
By: Dion Protani
|
|
The little village of Borghetto is a frazione of the Valeggio sul Mincio comune of Verona Province in Veneto.
The name Borghetto translates as "little village" and there are numerous other places in Italy that carry the same name so in order to distinguish this one from others, it's often referred to as Borghetto Sul Mincio or "Little Village on the River Mincio". |
|
What People Ask About Borghetto
What is Borghetto known for?
Is Borghetto worth visiting?
What is the Visconti Bridge in Borghetto?
How do you get to Borghetto?
What food is Borghetto famous for?
Related links
Discover
Discover Borghetto
Borghetto is listed as one of the "Borghi Più Belli d'Italia" (Italy's most beautiful villages), and of the collection of 300 or so that have the same award, Borghetto is one of the most outstanding.
The little village lies a couple of kilometres away from the more elevated Valeggio sul Mincio and can be best glimpsed from a bridge across the river on the main road that leads up to the town.
The bridge is called the Ponte Visconteo and originally dates back to 1395; it's been extensively refurbished in the intervening years but still maintains much of its original character which includes a turreted wall topped with Ghibelline (or dovetail) crenellations. The complex structure also features a series of stone arches and sturdy entrance gates at each end.
The little village lies a couple of kilometres away from the more elevated Valeggio sul Mincio and can be best glimpsed from a bridge across the river on the main road that leads up to the town.
The bridge is called the Ponte Visconteo and originally dates back to 1395; it's been extensively refurbished in the intervening years but still maintains much of its original character which includes a turreted wall topped with Ghibelline (or dovetail) crenellations. The complex structure also features a series of stone arches and sturdy entrance gates at each end.
Sightseeing Borghetto
It's from the gate at the eastern end of the bridge that you get the best view down to Borghetto: an idyllic village setting with water in the foreground cascading its way down a waterfall. The village isn't one where you'll go hunting for particular sights such as museums, monuments or churches although in the category of the latter there is the lovely Chiesa di San Marco Evangelista.
The sightseeing in Borghetto is more one of simply lapping up the relaxed atmosphere created by the medieval watermills as they gently move water around the village with that lovely tinkling sound. The most popular activity here is to sit and eat at one of the various waterside restaurants, some of which sit astride the watermills, and enjoy one of the local delicacies: tortellini.
The tiny centro storico is largely pedestrianised and accessed via a wooden footbridge. There are though, a series of car parks around the village that make it easy to visit.
The sightseeing in Borghetto is more one of simply lapping up the relaxed atmosphere created by the medieval watermills as they gently move water around the village with that lovely tinkling sound. The most popular activity here is to sit and eat at one of the various waterside restaurants, some of which sit astride the watermills, and enjoy one of the local delicacies: tortellini.
The tiny centro storico is largely pedestrianised and accessed via a wooden footbridge. There are though, a series of car parks around the village that make it easy to visit.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Borghetto
- Ponte Visconteo is a monumental fortified dam built in the 14th century by Gian Galeazzo Visconti to control the waters of the Mincio River. It stretches for over 600 metres and once connected to a system of defensive towers and walls. The structure forms a striking backdrop to the village and remains a rare example of medieval hydraulic engineering. It also offers walking access to nearby Valeggio sul Mincio.
- Borghetto’s Watermills are a defining feature of the village, with several traditional mill buildings perched directly above the river. Many have been converted into restaurants or lodgings, preserving their wooden mechanisms and riverside balconies. These mills once supported a thriving grain trade. Their placement adds to the village’s distinctive character.
- Church of San Marco Evangelista is a small Romanesque building dating from the 11th century, featuring a simple façade and a modest bell tower. The interior is equally austere, with traces of early frescoes and stone altars. It stands at the heart of the village near the watermills. The church is still used for occasional services and weddings.
- Viewpoints over the Mincio River can be found throughout Borghetto, especially along the small pedestrian bridges and riverside paths. These offer sweeping views of the Ponte Visconteo, the flowing water, and the village’s pastel façades. Several benches and viewing spots are integrated into the streetscape. Sunrise and sunset are particularly atmospheric.
- Historic Centre of Borghetto consists of cobbled lanes, low stone houses, and wrought-iron balconies, all arranged along the river’s edge. The village is small and easily explored on foot, with cafés, craft shops, and local eateries tucked between ancient buildings. Its preserved layout and setting give it the appearance of an open-air museum. The centre is part of the larger municipality of Valeggio sul Mincio.
Borghetto Tours and Activities
Borghetto - frazione di Valeggio sul Mincio
|
Comune: Valeggio sul Mincio
Province: Verona Region: Veneto Elevation: 88 metres Highlights: Ponte Visconteo, River Mincio waterfalls & watermills Close by: Parco Giardino Sigurtà, Verona, Peschiera del Garda |
One of I Borghi più belli d'Italia (Italy's Most Beautiful Villages)
Listing headline: Un Villaggio di Mulini sul Mincio (A Village of Mills on the Mincio River)
Listing headline: Un Villaggio di Mulini sul Mincio (A Village of Mills on the Mincio River)
Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Borghetto
- Hotel Borghetto Located in the heart of Borghetto, this charming hotel offers comfortable rooms with views of the surrounding countryside, a restaurant serving traditional Veneto cuisine, and a bar. Guests appreciate the central location, the friendly service, and the proximity to the famous medieval village and its picturesque bridges. €€ (mid-range)
- B&B La Corte Set just outside the centre of Borghetto, this cosy bed and breakfast features modern rooms with rustic touches, a beautiful garden, and a homemade breakfast served each morning. Visitors enjoy the peaceful setting, the personal touch of the hosts, and the easy access to Borghetto’s historic sites and local attractions. €€ (mid-range)
- Agriturismo Corte Madonna Located a short drive from Borghetto, this agriturismo offers spacious rooms with scenic views of the countryside, a large garden, and a restaurant serving locally sourced produce. Guests enjoy the tranquil rural setting, the authentic Veneto experience, and the short drive to both Borghetto and nearby towns. €€ (mid-range)
- Hotel Delle Rose Situated near Borghetto, this well-regarded hotel offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities, a restaurant serving regional dishes, and a bar. Guests appreciate the clean facilities, the good value for money, and the proximity to Borghetto’s medieval charm and the beautiful surroundings. €€ (mid-range)
- B&B Al Molino Located just outside Borghetto, this charming bed and breakfast offers comfortable rooms, a cozy common area, and a homemade breakfast. Guests enjoy the quiet environment, the warm hospitality from the hosts, and the easy access to Borghetto’s attractions and nearby nature trails. €€ (mid-range)
Where to Eat
Where to Eat in Borghetto
- Ristorante La Locanda del Borgo: Situated in the picturesque Borghetto, this charming restaurant offers a variety of traditional Veronese dishes, including tortellini di Valeggio and grilled meats. The restaurant’s outdoor seating provides a lovely view of the Mincio River. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Osteria il Ponte: Located near the historic bridge in Borghetto, Osteria il Ponte is known for its classic Italian menu, including regional specialties like risotto with perch and fresh pasta. The rustic setting adds to the authenticity of the dining experience. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Ristorante Al Braciere: Situated just outside Borghetto, Al Braciere specialises in grilled meats and traditional Italian fare, such as pasta with ragù and local cheeses. The cosy atmosphere and friendly service make it a great spot for a casual meal. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Ristorante Vecchia Malcesine in Valeggio sul Mincio: Located just a short drive from Borghetto, this family-run restaurant serves a variety of regional dishes, including risotto and local fish dishes. The peaceful setting, with views of the countryside, makes it a relaxing dining option. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Antica Trattoria La Speranza in Valeggio sul Mincio: About 3 km from Borghetto, this trattoria offers traditional Veronese cuisine, with a focus on fresh pasta and meat dishes. Its charming location, with rustic décor and a welcoming atmosphere, provides a true taste of local cuisine. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
Photo Gallery
Borghetto Photo Gallery
Places Close to [Place Name]
Places Close to Borghetto
Once you've had your fill of relaxing (or of tortellini - whichever comes first!), there are a number of places nearby that merit a visit.
The most obvious of those is just about visible from the village: look skywards to the east and you can make out the 14th century Castello Scaligero. It takes about 15 minutes to reach on foot from the centre of the village but is well worth the effort.
The main town of Valeggio sul Mincio could hardly be more different from Borghetto; a good proportion of visitors skip the larger, more modern town altogether but it does have a lovely square, the Piazza Carlo Alberto with the colourful town hall as its centrepiece.
Those visitors that skip the main town are likely to be on their way to or from the other outstanding attraction in the area. The Parco Giardino Sigurtà is one of the prettiest garden parks in Italy which can be enjoyed in a number of ways including electric buggy, on foot or best of all, electric bicycles.
The most obvious of those is just about visible from the village: look skywards to the east and you can make out the 14th century Castello Scaligero. It takes about 15 minutes to reach on foot from the centre of the village but is well worth the effort.
The main town of Valeggio sul Mincio could hardly be more different from Borghetto; a good proportion of visitors skip the larger, more modern town altogether but it does have a lovely square, the Piazza Carlo Alberto with the colourful town hall as its centrepiece.
Those visitors that skip the main town are likely to be on their way to or from the other outstanding attraction in the area. The Parco Giardino Sigurtà is one of the prettiest garden parks in Italy which can be enjoyed in a number of ways including electric buggy, on foot or best of all, electric bicycles.
Veneto Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations in Veneto
1. Venice
2. Lake Garda
3. Verona
4. Padua
5. Burano
6. Vicenza
7. Bassano del Grappa
8. Cortina d'Ampezzo
9. Chioggia
10. Soave
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Veneto
1. Venice
2. Lake Garda
3. Verona
4. Padua
5. Burano
6. Vicenza
7. Bassano del Grappa
8. Cortina d'Ampezzo
9. Chioggia
10. Soave
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Veneto
How to Get to [Place Name]
How to Get to Borghetto
By Rail: Borghetto does not have its own train station. The nearest station is in Peschiera del Garda, approximately 20 km away. From Peschiera del Garda, you can take a local bus or taxi to Borghetto, which takes around 25 minutes.
By Road: Borghetto is approximately 20 km northeast of Peschiera del Garda, and the drive takes around 25 minutes via the SP9 road. From Peschiera del Garda, follow signs for Valeggio sul Mincio, then for Borghetto.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: Borghetto is approximately 20 km northeast of Peschiera del Garda, and the drive takes around 25 minutes via the SP9 road. From Peschiera del Garda, follow signs for Valeggio sul Mincio, then for Borghetto.
Nearest International Airports:
- Verona Villafranca Airport (Aeroporto di Verona-Villafranca): Located about 30 km northwest of Borghetto, the drive takes around 35 minutes via the A22 motorway. From the airport, you can rent a car or take a taxi to Borghetto.
- Milan Malpensa Airport (Aeroporto di Milano Malpensa): Situated about 150 km southwest of Borghetto, the drive takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes via the A4 motorway. From Milan Malpensa, you can rent a car or take a train to Peschiera del Garda, then transfer to a local bus or taxi to Borghetto.
