The Park of Grazzano Visconti Castle to explore

The Castle Park is a natural extension of the village visit. It's where you leave the walls behind and enter a more open, quiet space. It's perfect for nature lovers who need to slow down, away from the hustle and bustle of visitors and street noise.

Created between the late 1800s and early 1900s by Duke Giuseppe Visconti di Modrone, the park has a clear idea: blend order and spontaneity. On one side, you see the strict symmetry of the Italian garden, perfectly aligned in front of the 14th-century castle entrance. On the other, paths become softer and more winding, weaving through trees and creating romantic, slightly mysterious corners that change with light and seasons.

Walking in the park, the sound of water is a constant companion. A small stream runs through the green area, and fountains along the path make the environment fresh and relaxing. Beyond a hedge arch, you'll find the Children's House, a fairytale spot created by the duke for his daughters, like something from a storybook. Nearby is a yew maze, meant more for fun and discovery than getting lost.

Much of the park's charm comes from the choice of plants, designed for a year-round architectural effect. There are cypresses, pines, holm oaks, and yews, alongside myrtle and boxwood shrubs. Roses and hydrangeas dominate the flowers, while native species like oaks, elms, and black poplars mix with undergrowth shrubs, like wild apple and dogwood. Some unique specimens, like Lebanon cedars, add a slightly exotic touch.

Visiting the Park

If you're planning a visit, know the park is closed during the winter rest period. Visits resume on Saturday, March 7, 2026. Generally, the park is open on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays. There are different options: the castle and park visit at 11:00, the village and park visit at 11:45, or just the park at 15:00. Times can change based on attendance, so it's best to check them close to your visit.

As for costs, the park-only ticket is 10 euros for adults and 7 euros for kids aged 6 to 16. If you want to include the castle, the combined ticket is 23 euros for adults and 13 euros for kids. Dogs are allowed, but they must be on a leash.

What to Avoid for Village Visits

It's worth remembering some practical tips to avoid small inconveniences. First, consider the parking: the area is small and fills up quickly, especially on weekends and during events. Arriving early or parking a bit farther can really make a difference.

Another common mistake is underestimating the time needed for the visit. With the castle, park, and village, there's plenty to see, so plan your day without rushing. Finally, always check opening and closing times, especially in low season, to avoid unpleasant surprises.

Where to Eat

After a long walk through the park and village, you'll naturally want to find a place to eat. Luckily, Grazzano Visconti offers several interesting options. If you love traditional cuisine, there are restaurants with typical local dishes, like tortelli piacentini or coppa piacentina.

For something more casual, there are bars and cafes where you can grab a sandwich, a dessert, or stop for an aperitif. Personally, sitting at an outdoor table with a view of the castle felt like one of the best ways to relax and fully enjoy the atmosphere.

Personal Impressions

My wife and I visited the castle and park with a guided tour. Our guide, Beatrice, was really knowledgeable and engaging. She explained the castle, the rooms, the characters, and the habits of the time clearly and passionately. The nearly two-hour tour flew by, a sign that the route is well-designed and interesting.

Recommended Stops

After the castle and park, you might wonder what else is worth seeing without rushing. The good news is Grazzano Visconti is compact and easy to explore on foot, letting you decide what to delve into next.

Near the castle, one of the first areas you'll find is Cortevecchia, the village's old barnyard, now a permanent exhibit of farming tools. It's a quick stop but useful for understanding daily life in the past. During Christmas, a Ferris wheel often appears here, offering a different view of the village.

Continuing leisurely, you can enter the small, charming Gothic church of Sant'Anna, then the parish church of Saints Cosma and Damiana, which also houses the Chapel of Our Lady of Lourdes. These are short visits but help break up your walk.

The squares deserve their own pause: Piazza del Biscione, with its fountain and well, is a spot where you naturally stop, while Piazza Gian Galeazzo Visconti is likely the most photographed corner of the village. If you're traveling with kids or looking for something different, consider the Wax Museum or the Torture Museum, which also includes an escape room.

If you prefer quieter places, a short distance away is the Monastery of the Year 1000, less crowded but interesting. Finally, leave room for spontaneity: artisan shops are scattered everywhere and worth visiting without a set plan. And if you pass by the Emporio Stregato, it's hard to resist taking a peek, even if you're not a Harry Potter fan.