When asked “what to see in Veneto?” there is no single answer. This northern Italian region is magnificent and incredibly diverse within. You can’t be exhaustive but that’s a good thing: Veneto is never predictable.
Within its territory you can find the lake and the largest amusement park in Italy, some of its cities rank among the most beautiful in the world. A large part of the Dolomites, 70% of the mountain range, lies in Veneto, and it boasts a thriving river tourism (Veneto hosts the only delta in Italy).
Choosing is truly difficult and we are here to guide you: Here are five places you can see in Veneto.
In Veneto: Venice and Its Islands
When thinking of the most fascinating cities in Veneto, the first that comes to mind is Venice. Built on the Lagoon and crossed by the Grand Canal, it is a city of a thousand faces.
From events like Carnival and the Redentore, less crowded duringautumn, it is one of the most romantic places in the world but does not hide its most enigmatic and nostalgic soul.
The classic tour takes you to see the center with St. Mark’s Square, the Basilica and the Doge’s Palace. Also in the central area are two characteristic bridges: the Rialto Bridge and the Bridge of Sighs.
If you plan to stay more than a few days, you’ll have the chance to experience a Venice like never before. Taking a food and wine tour of the bacari, the city’s typical bars, visiting its sestieri, including the less traveled ones, among the narrow alleys and small squares is recommended.
Try doing it after sunset and at night. When the city empties and the lights dim, the atmosphere becomes melancholic, at midnight it’s even eerie!
From Venice you can then move to its islands, where you can slowly discover the traditions and activities of true Venetians. Not only the Lido of the Film Festival, but also Murano, closer to the center, and the colorful Burano. These last two islands are perfect for enthusiasts of blown glass and lace making. From Burano you can then reach Mazzorbo.
Chioggia: Visiting Little Venice
Chioggia, a city described by Goldoni, is known as “Little Venice.” It is a seaside town where you can enjoy various activities. From strolling among the stalls and shops in the center to cycling along the Lagoon, Chioggia is perfect for those with little time who appreciate the beauty of small things.
Near Chioggia and reachable by vaporetto is Pellestrina. It is a uniquely Venetian island. Long and narrow, on one side it faces the lagoon, on the other directly the sea.
Sottomarina, instead, is a Chioggia district with a beach, equipped with bathing establishments.
Padua with Its Squares and Giotto’s Art
On the Euganean Hills, Padua is a city we recommend visiting over a weekend.
Its center is dominated by three main squares: Piazza delle Erbe, Piazza della Frutta, and Piazza dei Signori. This area is lively and cheerful, animated by carefree evenings with spritz.
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Book a visit to the Scrovegni Chapel, a Giotto masterpiece, and relax on the grass of Prato della Valle, one of the largest squares in Europe. At the Bo, home to one of Italy’s oldest universities, you’ll find important traces of Galileo Galilei.
Another must-see stop is the Basilica of Saint Anthony of Padua, also called “Il Santo.” It is known for its large size and especially because it hosts devoted pilgrims from all continents.
The Villas of the Brenta Riviera
In the Venetian hinterland, specifically in the Brenta Riviera, there are villas that enrich the surrounding rural landscape with exceptional results.
We refer to the Palladian villas, designed in the 16th century by architect Andrea Palladio, and the myriad (almost four thousand!) of residences and farm estates built between the 15th and 18th centuries. The Bridgertoneffect, the popular TV series set in the late 18th century, is guaranteed.
A Tour of the Soave Wineries
If you’re in the mood for a tour focused onfood and wine Veneto is the perfect region.
After visiting Verona, the home of Juliet and the Arena, don’t forget to stop by nearby Soave. This small village, whose center is surrounded by medieval walls, stands on a hill between the Lessini mountains and the Adige Valley.
It not only hosts one of Veneto’s most beautiful castles but is also home to some leading wineries producing four excellent DOC wines. These include Soave, Soave Classico, Soave Superiore, and finally, Recioto di Soave.
Seeing the Po Delta in Veneto
Not just Lake Garda. In Veneto, in the province of Rovigo, you’ll also find the Po Delta.
An original destination, outside the noisy and mainstreammass tourist circuit, this area is perfect for those dreaming of spending time in a water environment in complete relaxation. Between pristine beaches, canals, and nature reserves, you can explore the Delta by bike, on foot, or by boat: there’s truly something for everyone.
Discover all the other things, cities, and territories to see in Veneto with Meeters experiences. With the help of an expert guide and the company of other members, Veneto will hold no more secrets.