Vicenza—and its famed Palladian villas in the surrounding Veneto—has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1994 (expanded in 1996 to include 24 villas). The city is celebrated as the urban showcase of Andrea Palladio, whose harmonious designs continue to influence global architecture

Top Things to Do

1. Basilica Palladiana & Piazza dei Signori
   Iconic Renaissance landmark featuring Palladio’s famous loggia and the soaring Torre Bissara bell tower. For panoramic views, climb to the rooftop terrace at sunset

2. Teatro Olimpico
   Built 1580–1585, this is the world’s oldest indoor theater with remarkable trompe‑l’oeil stage scenery still intact—Palladio’s last masterpiece.

3. Palladio Museum
   Located in Palazzo Barbarano, it houses original drawings, architectural models, Tiepolo frescoes, and multimedia exhibits on Palladio’s life and work

4. Duomo di Vicenza (Cathedral)
   Begun in 1482 and later redesigned by Palladio—including the dome—the cathedral blends Gothic and Renaissance styles and retains rich frescoes and a historic bell tower

5. Villa La Rotonda (Villa Almerico Capra)
   Situated just outside the city, this perfect symmetrical villa with domed central hall is one of Palladio’s most iconic works and a UNESCO-listed villa.

6. Villa Godi or Villa Valmarana ai Nani
   Explore early Palladian villas like Villa Godi (one of his first designs) with archeological displays and frescoed interiors, or head to Villa Valmarana near Monte Berico for remarkable Tiepolo frescoes 

7. Monte Berico & Santuario della Madonna
   Offering sweeping vistas over Vicenza, this hilltop sanctuary combines religious art with panoramic views toward the Dolomites and Venice Lagoon

8. Stroll Corso Andrea Palladio & Salvi Gardens
   Savour the ambiance of Vicenza’s main shopping boulevard, dotted with boutiques and jewellers, and visit the Salvi Gardens and elegant Loggia Valmarana for a tranquil respite

Eat & Drink

• Local specialties:

  • Baccalà alla Vicentina (salt cod with onions and polenta)

  • Bigoli in Salsa (Venetian pasta with anchovy sauce)

  • Polenta e Soppressa (polenta with cured sausage)

  • Risotto al Timo (thyme-infused rice garnished with parmesan)

• Where to eat:

  • Il Grottino in Piazza delle Erbe is renowned for baccalà and bigoli in a welcoming setting

  • Trattoria da Roberto and Osteria La Piazzetta serve warm risotto and Venetian bigoli dishes in cozy, local atmospheres

• Dining tips:

  • Reservations are recommended for dinner downtown, especially at weekends—many places close Monday afternoons

  • Embrace the aperitivo culture—enjoy a crisp Spritz and light snacks in the late afternoon to mingle and relax

 Travel Tips

• Best time to visit: Spring and early autumn offer pleasant weather and smaller crowds. Vicenza is also a perfect day-trip alternative to Venice, Padua, and Verona

• Getting there & around: Easily accessible by train from Milan or Venice. The compact city center is walkable; rent a bicycle or walk up Monte Berico. A Vicenza Card can help access funiculars and museums

• Vibe: Authentic, elegant, and peaceful—Vicenza is quieter than nearby tourist hotspots. Hands-on street life meets refined Palladian architecture and local craftmanship, particularly jewellery

 Where to Stay & Recommendations

• Historic Centre: Staying near Piazza dei Signori or Corso Palladio immerses you in Vicenza’s architectural core and café culture.

• Unique boutique stays: Consider offbeat options like La Scuola B&B or Palazzo Valmarana Braga, blending heritage with character

• Villa estates: For a luxurious countryside experience, some Palladian villas near Vicenza offer guest stays and serene environments.