Beyond Venice: A Guide to Italy’s Veneto Region

Verona

Known as the iconic setting for Romeo & Juliet, Verona is a quaint Italian city that exudes romance and sophistication. The streets are picturesque and the city itself feels almost timeless. The city is rich in history. With sights like the Arena di Verona, an ancient Roman amphitheater still used for operas and concerts, and Piazza delle Erbe, a lively square with colorful buildings, markets and cafes. As you walk through the city, you’ll see stunning medieval and Renaissance architecture, small boutique shops and cozy trattorias serving delicious local food. Stay at an intimate luxury hotel like Vista Palazzo Verona for a real 5-star experience. Don’t miss the rooftop terrace restaurant with 360-degree views of the city, delicious local dishes and some of the finest bottles of Valpolicella from the region.

The Dolomites

While the Dolomites are a true gem, they’re not exactly hidden, but I would be remiss not to mention these breathtaking mountains when talking about Veneto. The Dolomites span three Italian regions: Veneto, Trentino-Alto Adige and Friuli-Venezia Giulia. Each region has its own unique character, but all three offer incredible views and an abundance of outdoor activities. The Trentino-Alto Adige Dolomites are known for their unique blend of Italian and Austrian culture, with iconic sites such as Seiser Alm and Lago di Braies. The Friuli-Venezia Giulia Dolomites have a quieter, off-the-beaten-path feel, perfect for anyone seeking tranquility and unspoiled beauty. The Veneto Dolomites are home to Cortina d'Ampezzo, Tre Cime di Lavaredo, Lago di Sorapis and Cinque Torri, making the area ideal for world-class hiking in the summer and skiing in the winter. Cortina d'Ampezzo is a perfect base for exploring all three regions of this incredible mountain range. And include gorgeous luxury spa hotels, like Rosapetra Spa Resort, where you can unwind after a long day of outdoor activities.

Lake Garda

Lake Garda is Italy’s largest lake, spanning three regions, with its eastern shores in the Veneto region, though the entire lake is worth visiting. It’s perfect for relaxing at lakeside beaches or hotel pools with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. As well as enjoying outdoor activities like hiking and water sports. The area around the lake is also home to gorgeous vineyards and olive groves, ideal for wine and olive oil tastings. Some lakeside towns to explore include Bardolino, known for its beautiful promenades, flower-filled streets and hillside vineyards — Sirmione. Famous for its thermal baths, historic sites and romantic strolls. And Limone sul Garda, celebrated for its scenic lemon groves. In Torri del Benaco, near Garda and Bardolino on the Veneto side of the lake, you’ll find Cape of Senses. It is a luxury hotel offering panoramic lake views, Mediterranean gardens filled with olive and lemon trees and a rejuvenating spa.

The Prosecco Hills

The Prosecco Hills in the Veneto region of Italy are a beautiful area full of rolling vineyards, charming villages and scenic hills between Conegliano and Valdobbiadene. This region is where Prosecco Superiore DOCG is made, so it’s a dream for wine lovers or anyone wanting to enjoy the relaxed, rural side of Italy. The hills are covered with vineyards, with historic farmhouses, ancient churches and grand villas scattered throughout, making for some seriously stunning views. As you drive through the winding roads, you’ll find plenty of local wineries where you can stop in for tastings and enjoy a glass of Prosecco with a view. It’s the kind of place where you can slow down, explore the small villages and soak in the peaceful countryside vibe. If you’re feeling active, there are plenty of hiking and cycling trails that take you through some of the most beautiful parts of northern Italy. Near the start of the La Strada del Prosecco, the Prosecco Wine Road, is an intimate, luxury hotel called Villa Soligo. It is a beautifully restored neoclassical villa that offers elegant rooms, a relaxing spa and stunning views of the surrounding vineyards.

Vicenza

Often overlooked compared to Venice and Verona, Vicenza is a hidden gem full of history and art. The city is known for its connection to Andrea Palladio, the famous Renaissance architect. As you walk through Vicenza, you'll see some of his best work, like the Basilica Palladiana and the Teatro Olimpico, the oldest indoor theater in the world. The historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is filled with beautiful buildings, cozy cafes and boutique shops. Just outside the city, you can explore the stunning Palladian villas scattered across the countryside. One of the highlights is Villa La Rotonda, a must-visit for architecture lovers. Vicenza is also a great place to enjoy local dishes like baccalà alla vicentina, a salted cod specialty.

Treviso

Often referred to as a “little Venice,” Treviso is a charming town crisscrossed with canals and packed with history and culture. Located just a short distance from Venice, Treviso offers a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere with all the beauty you’d expect from an Italian town. The old city walls, historic buildings and vibrant piazzas make it a lovely place to stroll through, while the local markets and shops offer a taste of authentic Italian life. It’s also known as the home of Prosecco and Tiramisu, so don’t miss the chance to indulge in a tasting tour.

Asolo

Nicknamed the “City of a Hundred Horizons,” Asolo is a small hilltop town that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Its peaceful and serene atmosphere makes it a perfect escape for those looking to slow down and take in the beauty of the Veneto region. Known for its artistic heritage, Asolo has inspired poets, painters and even queens throughout history. Stroll through its narrow streets, explore the Rocca di Asolo or visit the Civic Museum for a dose of history and art. Asolo is also close to the Prosecco Hills, so it’s easy to pair a day of cultural exploration with a wine tasting. For a luxury stay, consider Hotel Villa Cipriani, a gorgeous boutique hotel with stunning views of the hills and a beautiful garden.

While Venice is always worth a visit, the entire Veneto region has even more to offer. Across the region, you can experience a huge variety of activities and landscapes. It offers romantic cities, serene lakes, breathtaking mountains, rolling vineyards and charming towns. In Veneto, you can immerse yourself in true Italian culture, beauty and hospitality.

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Italy. In need of further inspiration? Check out Lori Turoff’s guide, Discovering Padua, Italy: Veneto's Best Kept Secret.