The reaction of vanadate(V) with a series of dipeptides (Val-Gln, Ala-Gln, Gly-Gln, Gly-Glu, and Ala-Gly) was investigated by UV-visible spectroscopy and multinuclear (V-51, N-14, C-13) NMR spectroscopy in solution. It was possible to evaluate the formation constants of the corresponding complexes for which a molecular structure was proposed. Complex formation is favored by the presence of a functionalized or a sterically demanding side chain. The Val-Gln dipeptide which combines both properties exhibits one of the highest formation constant reported so far for dipeptides.