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- I travel to Italy often to visit family. Escape the crowds in Venice and check out these 7 nearby gems instead. (businessinsider.com)
Escape the Crowds: Uncovering Northern Italy’s Hidden Gems Beyond Venice
While Venice undeniably holds a captivating charm with its iconic canals and historic piazzas, Northern Italy’s Veneto region harbors a wealth of lesser-known treasures that offer an equally enchanting, yet more tranquil, experience. For those seeking to immerse themselves in authentic Italian beauty without the overwhelming throngs of tourists, a journey beyond the usual hotspots reveals charming towns, historic cities, and picturesque landscapes.
On frequent visits to family in the region, one traveler has unearthed a collection of these underrated destinations, all located within a two-hour drive of Venice. From medieval walled villages to rolling prosecco vineyards and serene lakeside escapes, these seven locations promise a blend of culture, romance, and breathtaking scenery.
Asolo: The “Pearl of the Province of Treviso”
Perched majestically on rolling hills, Asolo is renowned for its picturesque allure, earning it the moniker “Pearl of the Province of Treviso.” Its cobblestone streets, elegant Renaissance villas, and panoramic vistas have historically captivated artists, writers, and even royalty.
This historic town, just an hour’s drive from Venice, seamlessly blends cultural richness with serene beauty, creating an idyllic and romantic ambiance. Visitors can explore the city’s ancient fortress, indulge in prosecco tastings at modern wineries, and savor a Bellini with a stunning sunset view at the famed Hotel Villa Cipriani.
Treviso: Venice’s Laid-Back Cousin
Often described as a less-crowded, more relaxed version of Venice, Treviso offers a similar charm without the bustling crowds. Located approximately 40 minutes from its more famous counterpart, Treviso boasts winding canals, historic cobblestone streets, frescoed houses, and elegant piazzas adorned with historical landmarks.
It masterfully combines history, art, and gastronomy, creating an authentic and enchanting atmosphere. Essential stops include lunch and a spritz at Odeon Alla Colonna, a visit to the Treviso Cathedral (Duomo di Treviso), browsing high-end boutiques, and exploring the vibrant Piazza dei Signori.
Valdobbiadene: A Sparkling Paradise for Wine Lovers
For connoisseurs of fine wines, Valdobbiadene presents an irresistible destination. This beautiful hilltop town, an hour from Venice, is celebrated as a primary center for prosecco production.
Surrounded by sprawling vineyards and scenic countryside, it provides ample opportunities to explore local wineries and sample exquisite sparkling wines. The town itself exudes a peaceful and charming atmosphere, with panoramic valley views and a slower pace of life.
A recommended experience includes prosecco and wine tasting at Fasol Menin, followed by gelato and lunch in Piazza Guglielmo Marconi, all set against a dreamy hillside backdrop.
Cittadella: A Journey Back in Time
Cittadella, a fascinating medieval Italian town approximately an hour from Venice, is distinguished by its remarkably preserved 13th-century walls that completely encircle its historic center. Uniquely, these ramparts are fully walkable, offering unparalleled panoramic views over red-tiled rooftops and the surrounding Veneto countryside.
Within the walls, cobblestone streets lead to charming piazzas, beautiful churches, and quaint artisan shops. Cittadella offers a genuine step back in time, blending history and culture with the relaxed pace of modern Italian life.
Highlights include walking the ancient city walls, visiting the neoclassical cathedral (Duomo di Cittadella), enjoying pizza at Al Cappello Ristorante, and exploring the central Piazza Pierobon.
Lake Garda: Breathtaking Vistas and Serene Escapes
Italy’s largest lake, Lake Garda, is renowned for its stunning alpine-meets-Mediterranean scenery. Approximately two hours from Venice, depending on the specific destination, it presents a dramatic landscape where mountains frame crystal-blue waters, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, relaxation, and adventure.
With its mild climate, historic castles, and picturesque lakeside promenades, Lake Garda is a truly dreamy destination. Many visitors begin their exploration in Sirmione, a town rich in history, shopping, and lakeside dining.
From there, a boat tour is highly recommended to explore other areas of the lake and enjoy a refreshing dip in its clear waters.
Vicenza: An Architectural Masterpiece
Less than an hour from Venice, Vicenza stands as a sophisticated city celebrated for its elegant architecture. It is home to numerous masterpieces by the Renaissance architect Andrea Palladio, including the spectacular Teatro Olimpico and the Basilica Palladiana.
As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Vicenza harmoniously blends artistic heritage with contemporary Italian life, featuring stylish boutiques, inviting cafés, and lively piazzas. Surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards, it also serves as a gateway to the numerous Palladian villas scattered across the countryside.
Bassano del Grappa: A Personal Favorite
No exploration of Northern Italy’s hidden gems would be complete without mentioning Bassano del Grappa. This charming city, just over an hour outside Venice, holds a special place for many due to its family ties and is best known for its historic and picturesque wooden bridge, the Ponte Vecchio.
Nestled amidst the foothills of the Dolomite Alps, Bassano del Grappa offers a unique fusion of Renaissance architecture, artisanal shops, and traditional grappa distilleries. Its historic center is ideal for leisurely strolls along cobblestone streets, sipping espresso in tranquil piazzas, and admiring mountain views.
Recommended activities include dining at Ristorante Birraria Ottone (a family-owned establishment for over 150 years), exploring local markets, experiencing the thrill of paragliding, and soaking in the riverside vistas.