Spend a delightful fortnight exploring the Veneto area, once the domains of the Venetian Republic, known as La Serenissima, a powerful maritime state.
9 – 22 June 2024
AUD 9,970 per person (double/twin-share)
AUD 10,970 per person (solo traveller)
Nestled in northeastern Italy, Veneto offers a captivating escape with enchanting landscapes and rich history. Explore the city of Venice, known as the “Serenissima,” boasting stunning canals and marvellous architecture. Discover the cities of Verona, Vicenza, and Padua, which are famous for their rich history and exceptional cultural heritage. You’ll have the chance to indulge in the region’s renowned cuisine and world-class wines and visit charming small towns dating back to medieval times.
The tour starts in Venice with three days to explore this most fascinating city and delve into its history. We stay in Verona and visit the surrounding areas, including Veneto’s famous rice fields, before moving to the Prosecco Hills, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed area of Italy. Our last base is Vicenza, birthplace of Palladio, an elegant city from where you’ll see some architectural treasures and the beautiful scenery.
Highlights
- Really get under the skin of Venice with three days to visit the city with guided tours and free time to explore on your own
- A day exploring Venice’s lagoon on a private boat
- Attending the opera in Verona’s ancient Arena
- Visits with producers of rice and prosecco to learn how these products are made and chat with the locals
- Staying in elegant Vicenza with its Palladian masterpieces
- Exploring medieval villages like Cittadella and Marostica that have such a rich history
- Excellent quality, authentic meals in restaurants that focus on local specialities with excellent local wines
Itinerary
Days 1 – 4 – A Venetian adventure
Set out on a captivating journey through Venice, exploring this charming labyrinth – its artistic treasures, vibrant culture and rich history. Cross the iconic Grand Canal and discover charming campi (Venice’s piazze) and its known and less-known landmarks.
Venture into the heart of the Venetian Lagoon on a private boat and discover Burano’s lively colours and Torcello’s ancient charm, where history echoes in every timeworn stone. Get a feel for the rhythms of everyday life on the lagoon that has been the lifeblood of Venice for centuries.
Days 5 – 7 -Verona’s treasures, rice fields and medieval marvels
Experience more than just Juliet’s balcony and fully immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of Verona as we discover its incredible architecture, cultural treasures, and ancient Roman ruins. From stunning churches to beautifully decorated squares and even the tomb of a medieval warlord, this city has a rich history.
Experience the beauty of Verona’s picturesque rice fields by taking a tour of a local rice producer and discovering the secrets behind the creation of this remarkable Venetian product. You’ll even have the chance to see a centuries-old husking machine in action before indulging in a taste test at a traditional trattoria.
Travel to Marostica, famous for its medieval checkered square where people still play chess with living pieces, and to Asolo, a medieval town known as the “town of a hundred horizons” for the breathtaking scenery that surrounds it.
Days 8 – 10 – A journey through nature, distilled spirits, and ancient burroughs
Explore the unique world of the UNESCO-recognised Prosecco countryside, where nature dictates the layout of vineyards and country life. Discover century-old mills, castles, and churches deeply rooted in agricultural traditions. Indulge in local wine tastings amidst this picturesque setting.
Uncover the art of grappa production, a delightful byproduct of the region’s renowned wines, and climb the walls enclosing Cittadella’s medieval borough.
Days 11 – 14 – Vicenza’s architectural splendour, Padova’s heritage, and countryside treasures
Explore Vicenza’s rich history and Palladian influence, discovering architectural marvels like the Teatro Olimpico. Enjoy free time to roam the beautiful city at your leisure.
Journey to Padova, a UNESCO World Heritage centre to marvel at its interconnected piazze, urban fabric, and the historic Scrovegni Chapel, showcasing Giotto’s groundbreaking Renaissance frescoes.
Savour life’s simple pleasures in Cologna Veneta, known for its sweet Mandorlato. Visit a historic producer before driving through the scenic Berici hills to Villa La Rotonda, Palladio’s celebrated masterpiece. Explore the villa’s beauty and symmetry in its idyllic setting.
What our clients say about travelling with Italian Tours
“The tour was absolutely fantastic, and all that it is cracked up to be on your website. We were amazed at the beauty of Puglia and were stunned by the local food. The accommodation was first-rate. The group size is perfect for the sort of tour that you offer.
Our guide, Marco, …was greatly appreciated for his care and sense of humour. He introduced us to many Pugliese dishes and especially to Café Leccese, which became a great hit with the whole group. We are now making it at home!!
Paul and Sue, Puglia, The Road Less Travelled Tour September 2023