Belluno
Belluno
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Latest page update: 2 May 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The town of Belluno is the capital city of the Province of Belluno with a population of 35,833 inhabitants.
It stands at an elevation of 390 metres above sea level and lies around 100 kilometres to the north of Venice, the regional capital of Veneto. With the eastern Dolomites just a short distance from the town, this is one of the gateways to the Alpine ski resorts such as Cortina d'Ampezzo and is also an important transport hub. |
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The centre of Belluno is its main square, Piazza dei Martiri which is where you'll find the majority of shops, bars and restaurants. Just to the south of Piazza dei Martiri is another square, Piazza Duomo which is where the city's cathedral, the Basilica di San Martino is located.
What People Ask About Belluno
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Overview
Overview
Belluno is an historic town located in the Veneto region, nestled at the foot of the Dolomite Mountains. Known for its picturesque setting along the Piave River, Belluno features a mix of medieval architecture and modern amenities, offering visitors a peaceful atmosphere with an authentic feel of a small alpine town. The town’s historic centre is characterised by its narrow streets, vibrant squares, and significant landmarks, providing a great introduction to the cultural heritage of the area.
One of the main attractions in Belluno is the Piazza dei Martiri, a large central square surrounded by elegant buildings, cafes, and restaurants. The town’s cathedral, Duomo di Belluno, is an impressive structure with a beautiful façade and a rich interior featuring works of art. Belluno is also well-known for its surrounding natural beauty, with numerous hiking trails offering views of the Dolomites, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the nearby parks and enjoy the serene landscapes, or visit local museums and galleries showcasing the region’s art and history.
One of the main attractions in Belluno is the Piazza dei Martiri, a large central square surrounded by elegant buildings, cafes, and restaurants. The town’s cathedral, Duomo di Belluno, is an impressive structure with a beautiful façade and a rich interior featuring works of art. Belluno is also well-known for its surrounding natural beauty, with numerous hiking trails offering views of the Dolomites, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the nearby parks and enjoy the serene landscapes, or visit local museums and galleries showcasing the region’s art and history.
Things to Do
Things to Do
- Piazza dei Martiri: The central square of Belluno, Piazza dei Martiri is the heart of the town and a key gathering spot. Surrounded by historical buildings, it offers a blend of charming cafés and shops. At the centre of the square stands a monument commemorating the town’s resilience, making it both a historical and social focal point.
- Museo Civico di Belluno: This museum provides an in-depth look at the history, art, and culture of Belluno and the surrounding region. With its diverse collection of archaeological finds, fine art, and exhibits on the area’s natural history, it’s a great place to delve into the town’s past and understand its place within the larger context of the Dolomites.
- Chiesa di San Pietro: One of the oldest churches in Belluno, Chiesa di San Pietro is renowned for its beautiful medieval architecture and stunning frescoes. The church holds significant historical value, with its ancient structure offering a glimpse into the town’s religious heritage, making it a must-see for visitors interested in art and history.
- Parco Nazionale delle Dolomiti Bellunesi: This national park, just outside the town, offers a wealth of natural beauty. With its rugged mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and dense forests, it’s a paradise for hikers, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone looking to immerse themselves in the stunning landscapes of the Dolomites.
- Palazzo dei Rettori: A striking example of Renaissance architecture, Palazzo dei Rettori once served as the residence of the Venetian rulers in Belluno. Today, it houses local government offices but remains open to the public, where visitors can admire its beautiful façade and learn about the town’s history under Venetian rule.
Tours & Activities
Comune di Belluno
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Province: Belluno
Region: Veneto Population: 35,487 (in 2024 - source) Size: 147 km² Elevation: 390 metres Highlights: Piazza dei Martiri, Piazza Duomo, Basilica San Martino Close by: Dolomiti Bellunesi National Park, Lake Santa Croce |
Where to Stay
Where to Stay
- Hotel Astor Located near the historic centre of Belluno, this charming hotel offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities, a restaurant serving traditional Veneto cuisine, and a bar. Guests appreciate the central location, the excellent service, and the proximity to Belluno’s main attractions, including the Piazza dei Martiri and the Belluno Cathedral. €€ (mid-range)
- B&B Il Pias Situated just outside the town centre, this cozy bed and breakfast features modern rooms, a welcoming atmosphere, and a homemade breakfast served each morning. Visitors enjoy the peaceful setting, the personal touch of the hosts, and the easy access to Belluno’s historical sites and the surrounding countryside. €€ (mid-range)
- Hotel Dolomiti Set in a tranquil location near Belluno, this well-regarded hotel offers comfortable rooms with views of the surrounding mountains, a wellness centre, and a restaurant serving local dishes. Guests enjoy the good value for money, the relaxing atmosphere, and the proximity to hiking trails and Belluno’s cultural sites. €€ (mid-range)
- Agriturismo Maso Pertica Located just outside Belluno, this agriturismo offers spacious rooms with scenic views of the Dolomites, a large garden, and a restaurant serving locally sourced produce. Guests enjoy the authentic Veneto experience, the tranquil rural setting, and the short drive to Belluno’s attractions and the surrounding nature. €€ (mid-range)
- B&B Il Melograno Situated in a peaceful location near Belluno, this charming bed and breakfast offers cozy rooms with beautiful views, a relaxing garden, and a homemade breakfast. Guests appreciate the warm hospitality, the quiet environment, and the easy access to Belluno’s historic centre and nearby hiking trails. €€ (mid-range)
Where to Eat
Where to Eat
- Ristorante Da Alfio: Located in the heart of Belluno, Ristorante Da Alfio offers a refined dining experience with a focus on traditional Veneto cuisine. The menu includes classic dishes such as risotto with mountain herbs, homemade pastas, and grilled meats, all prepared with fresh, local ingredients. The warm, welcoming atmosphere and excellent service make it ideal for a special meal or celebration. Price Guide: €€€ (Mid-range)
- Trattoria Al Bivio: Situated just outside Belluno, Trattoria Al Bivio offers a cozy, rustic atmosphere with a menu focused on traditional local dishes. Known for its hearty pastas, like pappardelle with wild boar ragu, and its selection of grilled meats and seasonal vegetables, the restaurant provides an authentic taste of the Veneto region. The casual setting and friendly service make it a great spot for a relaxed meal. Price Guide: €€ (Affordable)
- Ristorante Antica Trattoria": This family-run restaurant, located near the city centre, offers a traditional Italian dining experience with a focus on regional Veneto specialities. The menu features local favourites like risotto with saffron, homemade pastas, and roasted meats. The charming interior and attentive service create a warm and inviting environment for a memorable meal. Price Guide: €€ (Affordable)
- Ristorante Al Sole: For a more upscale dining experience, Ristorante Al Sole offers a sophisticated menu that blends Veneto and Mediterranean flavours. Known for its elegant dishes such as risotto with truffle, fresh seafood, and grilled meats, the restaurant provides a refined atmosphere and exceptional service. Perfect for a special occasion or romantic dinner. Price Guide: €€€€ (High-end)
- Ristorante alla Fava: A traditional Italian restaurant in the heart of Belluno, Ristorante alla Fava offers a variety of dishes made with local, seasonal ingredients. The menu includes classic Veneto dishes like risotto with mushrooms, homemade pastas, and grilled meats. The welcoming atmosphere, combined with generous portions and friendly service, make it a great place for an authentic and satisfying meal. Price Guide: €€ (Affordable)
Nearby Places
Nearby Places
- Cortina d'Ampezzo (approx. 40 km northeast of Belluno): Known as the "Queen of the Dolomites," Cortina d'Ampezzo is a world-renowned ski resort and a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The town is surrounded by dramatic mountain landscapes, offering skiing in winter and hiking, mountain biking, and climbing in the summer. Cortina also features a charming town centre with shops, cafes, and a lively après-ski scene.
- Feltre (approx. 30 km south of Belluno): A small town with a rich history, Feltre is known for its medieval centre, including the impressive Cathedral of San Pietro and the historic Piazza Maggiore. The town is also close to the Parco Nazionale Dolomiti Bellunesi, offering numerous hiking trails with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
- Alleghe (approx. 30 km northeast of Belluno): A scenic town nestled beside Lake Alleghe, Alleghe offers a peaceful lakeside setting combined with outdoor activities. The town is known for its ski resort in the winter and is a great base for exploring the surrounding Dolomites. In the summer, the lake provides opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and fishing.
- Auronzo di Cadore (approx. 50 km east of Belluno): Located in the heart of the Dolomites, Auronzo di Cadore is a popular resort town for both winter and summer activities. The area offers skiing and snowboarding in the winter and hiking, cycling, and lake activities during the warmer months. The nearby Tre Cime di Lavaredo, a group of iconic mountain peaks, is one of the most famous hiking destinations in the Dolomites.
- Zoldo Alto (approx. 40 km northwest of Belluno): A quiet and picturesque village, Zoldo Alto is surrounded by beautiful mountains and is part of the Dolomiti Bellunesi National Park. The town offers outdoor activities such as hiking and skiing, with scenic views of the surrounding peaks and forests. Zoldo Alto is also known for its traditional wooden houses and peaceful atmosphere.
Veneto Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations in Veneto
1. Venice
2. Lake Garda
3. Verona
4. Padua
5. Burano
6. Vicenza
7. Bassano del Grappa
8. Cortina d'Ampezzo
9. Chioggia
10. Soave
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Veneto
1. Venice
2. Lake Garda
3. Verona
4. Padua
5. Burano
6. Vicenza
7. Bassano del Grappa
8. Cortina d'Ampezzo
9. Chioggia
10. Soave
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Veneto
Getting There
Getting There
Using public transport to reach Venice, you need to first take a bus to Conegliano (1 hr 26 minutes), followed by a train to Venice making a total journey time of 2 hours 16 minutes. An alternative to the bus/train combination is to take a train to Treviso (1 hr 51 mins) followed by another train to Venice (39 minutes).
Belluno's transport system includes local buses while the main train station, called Stazione di Belluno, is an 8 minute walk from Piazza Dei Martiri. By car you can reach Venice in an hour and 16 minutes while the journey times to the fellow provincial capitals are: Treviso (1 hour), Padua (1 hour 31), Vicenza (1 hour 41), Rovigo (1 hr 46 mins) and Verona (2 hours 8 mins). The most convenient airports for Belluno are Treviso Airport (82 km) and Venice Marco Polo Airport (97km).
Nearby places of interest include the Dolomiti Bellunesi National Park, Lake Santa Croce and the town of Feltre while further north there's Lake Misurina.
Belluno's transport system includes local buses while the main train station, called Stazione di Belluno, is an 8 minute walk from Piazza Dei Martiri. By car you can reach Venice in an hour and 16 minutes while the journey times to the fellow provincial capitals are: Treviso (1 hour), Padua (1 hour 31), Vicenza (1 hour 41), Rovigo (1 hr 46 mins) and Verona (2 hours 8 mins). The most convenient airports for Belluno are Treviso Airport (82 km) and Venice Marco Polo Airport (97km).
Nearby places of interest include the Dolomiti Bellunesi National Park, Lake Santa Croce and the town of Feltre while further north there's Lake Misurina.
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Public transport: Central train station, local buses
By train: Treviso - 1 hour 51 minutes |
By car: Treviso - 1 hour, Venice - 1 hr 16 m, Padova - 1 hr 31 m
Fly to: Treviso Airport (82 km), Venice Marco Polo Airport (97 km) |
