Areas: where to base yourself
- Venosa: the most charming town base.
- Melfi: near the lakes and the castle.
- Countryside: agriturismi among the vines.
Food and drink
Taste Aglianico del Vulture with local pasta, lamb and the chestnuts of the Vulture woods. The area also has mineral springs, and its bottled waters are known across Italy.
Money-saving tips
- Guesthouses in Venosa are excellent value.
- Many wineries offer tastings at modest prices; ask when booking.
Practicalities
Winters are cool and damp; summers are warm. Museums close one day a week, often Monday or Tuesday.
Sample plans
One day
Melfi castle in the morning, lunch, then Venosa and the Incompiuta in the afternoon.
Two days
Add the Monticchio lakes and a winery visit with tasting.
