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A Macchi seaplane on display at the Vigna di Valle museumBergfalke2 · CC BY-SA 3.0

What to do · Lake Bracciano

Historical Museum of the Italian Air Force at Vigna di Valle

Seaplanes, fighters and historic aircraft in the hangars of Italy's first air base, on the shore of Lake Bracciano; closed on Mondays.

Information
Duration
2 h
Season
All year, Tuesday to Sunday
Who it's for
Families and aviation enthusiasts

At Vigna di Valle, on the south shore of the lake, Italy's first military airship took off in 1908 and the seaplane base was here. Today the hangars hold the historical museum of the Air Force: from First World War aircraft to jets, with a room devoted to the Schneider Trophy racing seaplanes. It is a visit that hooks children and teenagers.

Opening times and ticket

Open Tuesday to Sunday and closed on Mondays. On weekdays, the Ministry of Culture publishes hours from 10:00 to 16:30; at weekends the hours are longer. It does not take part in the free entry on the first Sunday of the month. Confirm the hours and price on the Air Force website or on 06 9988 7510 before you go.

Getting there

It is about 6 km from Bracciano, along the road that skirts the lake towards Anguillara. You need a car: the train does not stop nearby. Combine it with the castle in the morning and lunch at Trevignano or Anguillara.

Tips

  • Call first Weekend hours vary by season.
  • Start with the seaplanes They are the unique part of this museum.

Frequently asked questions

Which day is it closed?

Mondays.

Can you get there by train?

No; you need a car or a taxi from Bracciano.

Is it free on the first Sunday?

No, the museum does not take part in that scheme.

As a familyWith teenagers

Opening hours and prices can change: check them before you go.

Round off the plan

Where to eat, where to stay and what else to do

To eat nearby

Terrace with parasols lit up at night beside the wall© Il Ristorantino del Castello

Il Ristorantino del Castello

Restaurant · Bracciano · €€€€

What to order: a lake fish dish and a fresh pasta; ask about the tasting menu

To stay nearby

Breakfast on a terrace facing the lake© Borgo Vista LagoSmall hotel

Hotel Diffuso Borgo Vista Lago

12 rooms · Old town of Trevignano · Lake view · Massages

Why we like it: Albergo diffuso with 12 rooms in houses and former workshops in the old town of Trevignano Romano, several with lake views and balconies, and massages with views.

Aerial view of the farmhouse among meadows and woodland© AgrihouseCountry house

Agrihouse

3 rooms and 2 apartments · Farm with animals · Organic produce · Trails

Why we like it: Organic farm stay in the countryside of Sambuco, west of Bracciano: three rooms and two apartments among meadows, vegetable garden and farm animals.