Discover the Enchanting Veneto Region of Italy

The Veneto is a gem of a region situated in the northeast corner of Italy. Bordered by the stunning Lake Garda to the west, the majestic Dolomite Mountains to the north, and the crystal-clear Adriatic Sea to the east, the landscape of Veneto is both rich and varied. From the grandeur of the historic city of Venice to the medieval charm of Bassano del Grappa, and continuing to Belluno, a captivating town serving as a gateway to the Dolomites, the Veneto presents an enthralling region for exploration.

Cities and Towns

The major towns in the Veneto region are steeped in history and are definitely worth a visit:

• Venice is renowned as one of Italy’s most visited and distinct cities. While Saint Mark’s Square and Cathedral, along with the Grand Canal, remain top attractions, numerous other monuments, canals, and squares await discovery. A week is hardly enough to soak in its beauty, whereas most visitors opt for shorter stays.
• Padua, known as Padova in Italian, is one of the most delightful small cities to explore, conveniently located close to Venice for day trips. The area between Venice and Padua boasts the Riviera del Brenta, where affluent families of the 16th to 18th centuries constructed opulent summer residences along the Brenta River, known as The Venetian Villas.
• Vicenza was home to the celebrated Renaissance architect Palladio, who designed 23 prominent buildings in the city, including Palazzo Barbaran da Porto, which now houses the Palladio Museum.
• Verona captures the essence of romance, thanks to its association with Romeo and Juliet. Many visitors flock to the city to visit Juliet’s house and the iconic balcony; however, they will find plenty of other attractions, including a Roman arena known for outdoor opera performances and a picturesque medieval heart.
• Soave is a delightful small wine town surrounded by medieval walls that trail up to a castle at the summit. Wine enthusiasts will find several establishments for tasting both in the town and nearby.
• Chioggia, located in the Venetian Lagoon just south of Venice, is a charming fishing port often referred to as Little Venice.
• Lido di Jesolo serves as a seaside resort north of Venice, famous for its expansive, 10-mile-long sandy beach and vibrant summer nightlife. This relatively new town caters to beachgoers, while a few miles inland sits the quaint old town of Jesolo.
• Treviso is another picturesque canal town with a medieval center situated north of Venice, easily accessible by train, and also has a small airport serviced by budget airlines.
• Bassano del Grappa, located at the base of Mount Grappa, is a lively medieval town along the Brenta River, renowned for its iconic Alpini Bridge and grappa production. Many who visit claim it to be one of the most beautiful places in Europe.

Mountains and Lakes of the Veneto Region

Lake Garda, recognized as Italy’s largest and most frequented lake, boasts pristine beaches and clear waters in the south, rocky cliffs in the north, as well as charming villages and historic castles in between. The eastern shoreline features several popular towns, including Peschiera del Garda, Bardolino, and Malcesine, from where visitors can ascend Mount Baldo via cable car. Additionally, Gardaland, a large amusement park, lies just east of the lake in Castelnuovo del Garda.

The Veneto Dolomites

The Dolomites are famed for their breathtaking rocky spires and comprise one of Italy’s premier mountain ranges, proudly recognized as one of Northern Italy’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. In winter, these majestic mountains transform into a haven for skiing and winter sports, while summer invites outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy biking and hiking.

Belluno serves as the gateway to this stunning mountain range, providing a city to appreciate on its own or as a convenient base for mountain biking, hiking, or hot-air balloon excursions that reveal the incredible surrounding landscapes.

Among the many resorts, Cortina d’Ampezzo stands out as a renowned mountain destination, often referred to as the “Queen of the Dolomites”. In the summer, it transforms into a climber’s paradise. The Cortina Adrenaline Center provides all the necessary equipment for those seeking thrilling experiences.