italian-region-guide-veneto

Visit Veneto

Experience world-famous canals of Venice, where gondolas glide past centuries-old palazzi reflected in shimmering waters or the sun-drenched vineyards of the Prosecco Hills.

Lose yourself in Venice’s maze of bridges and piazzas before heading inland to Padua, home to Giotto’s frescoes and one of Europe’s oldest universities, or to Verona, where ancient Roman amphitheatres echo with the romance of Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet.” Further north, the alpine village of Lorenzago di Cadore offers a peaceful mountain retreat framed by the jagged peaks of the Dolomites, while Portogruaro enchants with graceful canals and Renaissance arcades that mirror Venice’s elegance on a smaller, quieter scale.

Veneto Region

Here you’ll discover medieval towns, hilltop castles, and sweeping landscapes. Visit Vicenza, where Palladio’s architectural masterpieces line grand avenues; explore Spiazzi, gateway to the Sanctuary of Madonna della Corona, dramatically clinging to a cliffside; or enjoy the easy charm of Treviso, with its cobbled lanes and tranquil waterways. To the east, the Adriatic coast beckons with golden beaches and lively resorts, while to the north, the Dolomites offer breathtaking vistas and year-round adventure.

Venice

Venice, Italy’s iconic city of canals and history, offers a captivating blend of art, architecture, and romantic charm.

The city is perfect for visitors seeking culture, sightseeing, and unique urban experiences. From winding canals to hidden piazzas, Venice’s streets and waterways pulse with life and Italian elegance.

The historic center, dominated by St. Mark’s Basilica and Piazza San Marco, tells centuries of Venetian history. Visitors can explore the Doge’s Palace, cross the Rialto Bridge, wander the atmospheric alleyways, or enjoy a gondola ride along the canals while pausing at cafés and artisan shops along the way.

Venice is also renowned for its traditional craftsmanship. Glassmakers in Murano, lace artisans in Burano, and boutique shops throughout the city showcase centuries-old skills and contemporary design, offering a world-class cultural experience.

Quiet squares, waterfront promenades, and rooftop terraces provide places to sit back and relax whilst taking the in the city’s unique energy, full of history, artistry, and Venetian charm.

Verona

Let Verona, the romantic city of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, captivate you with its elegant squares, historic streets, and rich artistic heritage. Verona offers a charming escape where architecture, romance, and Italian tradition come together in harmony.

Visit the Piazza delle Erbe as it buzzes with life, lined with cafés, restaurants, and market stalls where you can pause to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

Nearby, Piazza Bra opens onto the grand Arena di Verona, a remarkable Roman amphitheater still hosting opera performances today.

Strolling through cobbled lanes, you can admire medieval towers, colorful façades, and artisan shops tucked into hidden corners.

For panoramic views, climb to Castel San Pietro, which overlooks the Adige River, the city rooftops, and the surrounding hills.

Elegant palazzi, historic churches, and charming courtyards, including Juliet’s House, showcase Verona’s architectural and cultural heritage.

Spiazzi

Perched in the hills above Lake Garda, is one of northern Italy’s most picturesque mountain towns. Known for its scenic views, historic streets, and peaceful atmosphere, Spiazzi offers a relaxing escape where nature and local culture come together.

The heart of the village, Piazza Madonna della Corona, is lined with cafés and small shops, from which visitors can wander cobbled lanes, enjoy panoramic viewpoints, or embark on nearby hiking trails that wind through surrounding forests and hills.

Day trips from Spiazzi include visits to the Santuario Madonna della Corona, an iconic cliffside sanctuary, as well as exploring nearby villages like Caprino Veronese and Ferrara di Monte Baldo. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy mountain biking, trekking, or scenic walks with breathtaking views of Lake Garda and the surrounding valleys.

Local trattorias serve traditional Veneto and Lombard cuisine and with easy access to excursions, Spiazzi offers a quintessential Garda hillside experience for both relaxation and adventure.

Lorenzago di Cadore

Lorenzago di Cadore, nestled in the Dolomites of northern Italy, offers a peaceful escape surrounded by dramatic mountain peaks and lush alpine meadows, known for its scenic landscapes, historic streets, and traditional mountain culture.

The village centre features quaint streets, local cafés, and artisan shops, from which you can explore nearby hiking and cycling trails, enjoy panoramic mountain views, or discover the surrounding forests and alpine pastures.

Day trips from Lorenzago di Cadore include excursions to the Dolomiti Bellunesi National Park, opportunities for skiing and snowshoeing in winter, and visits to nearby towns such as Auronzo di Cadore and Pieve di Cadore, rich in history and culture. Outdoor activities, from trekking to mountain climbing, offer unforgettable experiences for all skill levels.

Local restaurants serve traditional Dolomitic and Venetian cuisine, featuring hearty mountain dishes, local cheeses, and regional wines, providing a true taste of the Cadore region.

With its combination of alpine charm, historic character, and access to outdoor adventures, Lorenzago di Cadore offers a serene and inspiring mountain getaway for visitors year-round.

Padua

Padua is an historic city in the Veneto region, which captivates visitors with its rich cultural heritage, lively squares, and elegant architecture, known for its medieval charm, vibrant university atmosphere, and artistic treasures.

The bustling Piazza dei Signori and Piazza delle Erbe are lined with cafés, artisan shops, and historic palazzi. From here, you can stroll the cobbled streets, admire frescoed churches, and explore landmarks such as the Basilica of Saint Anthony, the Scrovegni Chapel, and the Botanical Garden of Padua, Europe’s oldest university garden.

Embark upon trips from Padua exploring the nearby Brenta Riviera, with its elegant villas and gardens, cycling along scenic routes, or visit charming towns such as Vicenza, Treviso, and Venice, all within easy reach.

Local trattorias serve regional Veneto specialties, including risotto, fresh seasonal produce, and local wines, providing the perfect complement to a day of sightseeing.

Padua is an ideal destination if you’re seeking a combination of history, art, and relaxed city life, making it a perfect base for discovering the culture and beauty of the Veneto region.

Portogruaro

Portogruaro, near the Adriatic coast, enchants visitors with its historic streets, elegant architecture, and vibrant local culture. Boasting a medieval centre, picturesque canals, and lively piazzas, Portogruaro offers a peaceful yet engaging escape.

The heart of the town is Piazza della Repubblica, lined with cafés, artisan shops, and historic buildings.

Wander cobbled streets, admire Renaissance and Gothic façades, and explore landmarks such as Portogruaro Cathedral, Palazzo Comunale, and the Museo della Laguna.

Day trips from Portogruaro include excursions to the nearby Venetian lagoon, charming coastal towns such as Caorle and Jesolo, or exploring the historic city of Venice, just a short train ride away. Scenic cycling and walking routes along the Sile River provide additional opportunities to enjoy the surrounding landscapes.

Portogruaro is an ideal destination for visitors seeking a combination of history, culture, and easy access to nearby lakes, rivers, and the Adriatic coast, making it a perfect base for exploring northeastern Italy.

Flights and getting around

The best way to explore Veneto is by renting a car, giving you the freedom to discover its diverse landscapes, from the romantic canals and historic streets of Venice, to the rolling vineyards of Valpolicella and Prosecco, the medieval towns of Verona and Vicenza, and the Dolomite valleys in the north.

Public transportation is reliable and connects major cities such as Venice, Verona, Padua, and Vicenza. Trains and regional buses also reach smaller towns, though some of the most scenic villages, wine regions, and mountain areas are best explored by car.

Taxis are available in larger urban centers, and in cities like Venice and Verona, walking is an excellent way to enjoy historic streets, grand squares, and lively cafés.

Flights from the UK: Approximately 2 hours (to Venice or Verona airports).

Nearest airports:

Treviso Airport (TSF) — around 40 minutes from Venice, mainly serving low-cost carriers.

Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE) — about 20 minutes from Venice by car or shuttle.

Verona Villafranca Airport (VRN) — approximately 15 minutes from central Verona.

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Weather

Veneto enjoys a diverse climate that mirrors its varied landscapes, from the snow-capped Dolomites in the north to the fertile plains of the Po Valley and the sparkling waters of Lake Garda and the Venetian lagoon. This variety makes Veneto a destination worth visiting throughout the year.

Summer is warm and sunny, with temperatures generally between 22–32°C. It’s ideal for exploring Venice’s historic streets and canals, visiting Verona and Padua, taking boat trips on Lake Garda, and enjoying outdoor dining and cultural events. The Alpine areas offer cooler temperatures, perfect for hiking, cycling, and exploring mountain villages.

Spring and autumn are mild, with averages around 15–24°C, bringing blooming flowers, colorful vineyards, and fewer crowds. These seasons are perfect for wine tours in Valpolicella and Prosecco regions, scenic drives through charming towns, and leisurely walks along lakeside promenades or Venice’s canals.

Winter transforms the Dolomites into a hub for skiing, snowboarding, and winter hiking, with temperatures ranging from -3 to 8°C. The plains and lagoon areas experience crisp, clear days, ideal for sightseeing in Venice, exploring historic cities like Verona and Padua, and enjoying festive markets and seasonal events.

Top ten attractions in Veneto…

Venice’s Historic Centre – Wander the canals, bridges, and piazzas of this magical city. Don’t miss St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace, join a guided tour.
The Grand Canal & Gondola Ride – Glide past palaces and historic buildings on a classic gondola ride, or opt for a guided boat tour of Venice’s most iconic waterway.
Verona & the Roman Arena – Discover Juliet’s Balcony and explore the remarkable Verona Arena.
Padua & the Scrovegni Chapel – Visit this vibrant university city and admire Giotto’s frescoes inside the Scrovegni Chapel, a masterpiece of Renaissance art.
Lake Garda (Veneto Side) – Try a boat excursion from lakeside villages or visit the region’s museums and castles overlooking the water.
Vicenza & Palladian Architecture – Andrea Palladio’s harmonious Renaissance buildings, including the Teatro Olimpico and Palazzo Chiericati.
The Prosecco Hills (Valdobbiadene & Conegliano) – A UNESCO-listed landscape of rolling vineyards where you can enjoy Prosecco wine tours with tastings.
Bassano del Grappa – Famous for its historic wooden bridge and grappa distilleries. Visit the Poli Grappa Museum or take a guided tasting at a local distillery.
Treviso – A charming canal-lined town with excellent food, boutiques, and the Museo di Santa Caterina.
Chioggia – “Little Venice,” a colorful fishing town offering a more relaxed experience.