Vicenza​

⭐ Ranked #56 in the Italy Review Top 100 – My Most Recommended Destinations
Latest page update: 22 August 2025
By: Dion Protani

Where to Stay

Where to Stay in Vicenza
Vicenza has a solid choice of established hotels, with well-reviewed properties in and around the historic centre. Most focus on comfort and convenience, giving easy access to Piazza dei Signori, the Basilica Palladiana and the city’s architectural highlights.
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Hotel Campo Marzio is a leading option close to the historic centre, appreciated for its modern interiors, professional service and convenient location for exploring the city on foot (€€€). Hotel Palladio offers comfortable rooms just a short walk from the main sights, known for its reliable standards and consistently positive guest feedback (€€). CityHotel Cristina provides a practical central base with welcoming service and good overall value, within easy reach of Vicenza’s key landmarks (€€).

Where is

Where is Vicenza?
​The city of Vicenza is the capital city of the Province of Vicenza, with a population of 110,790 inhabitants. It lies around 75 kilometres to the west of Venice, the regional capital of Veneto. 

In terms of things to see, the main highlights in Vicenza are the Renaissance palazzi designed by Andrea Palladio. Among the buildings is the 16th century Olympic Theatre, a typical example of "Palladian Architecture". It is partly due to Palladio's work in and around Vicenza that brought the 1994 UNESCO World Heritage Site listing to the city. ​
Comune di Vicenza
Province: Vicenza

Region: Veneto

Population: 110,830 (in 2024 - source)

​Size: 80 km²

Elevation: 39 metres

Top sights: Teatro Olimpico, Basilica Palladiana, Piazza dei Signori

Close by: Padova, Bassano del Grappa, Cittadella, Verona
UNESCO World Heritage Site

City of Vicenza and the Palladian Villas of the Veneto

​Year: 1994

What People Ask About Vicenza

What is Vicenza known for?
Vicenza is known for its elegant architecture by Andrea Palladio, including palaces and villas. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a centre for jewellery-making and classical design.
Is Vicenza worth visiting?
Yes, Vicenza is ideal for visitors interested in Renaissance art and architecture. The city is walkable, with historic streets, Palladian villas and a relaxed atmosphere compared to nearby Venice or Verona.
What are the top sights in Vicenza?
Highlights include the Basilica Palladiana, Teatro Olimpico, Palazzo Chiericati, and Villa La Rotonda. Many of Palladio’s works can be seen throughout the city and its surroundings.
How do I get to Vicenza from Venice?
Trains from Venice to Vicenza take about 45 minutes and run frequently. The station is a short walk from the historic centre, making it easy to explore on foot after arrival.
What is the connection between Palladio and Vicenza?
Andrea Palladio lived and worked in Vicenza during the 16th century. His distinctive style shaped many of the city’s buildings, and his influence extended to architecture across Europe and North America.
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Discover

Discover Vicenza
Vicenza is a historic city in the Province of Vicenza, set on the plains of the Veneto between the Berici Hills and the foothills that rise towards the Alps. The city is arranged along the Bacchiglione River, with elegant streets, broad piazzas, and long perspectives framed by porticoes and civic buildings. Its setting between hills and plain has long given Vicenza a strategic position on the routes linking Venice, Verona, and the interior valleys.
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The city is renowned for the legacy of Andrea Palladio, whose palaces, villas, and the Teatro Olimpico form one of the most important ensembles of Renaissance architecture in Europe. Churches, arcaded streets, and later civic monuments add further layers to its urban fabric, all contributing to its UNESCO recognition. Positioned between Padua and Verona, and close to the wider network of Palladian villas across the Veneto, Vicenza stands as a cultural crossroads where classical harmony, Renaissance heritage, and urban elegance are closely intertwined.

Things to Do

Things to Do in Vicenza
  • Teatro Olimpico: Designed by Andrea Palladio and completed by Vincenzo Scamozzi after his death, this 16th-century indoor theatre is the oldest surviving example of its kind. Its illusionistic stage set, creating the appearance of long streets receding into the distance, remains one of the most remarkable achievements of Renaissance architecture.
  • Basilica Palladiana: Overlooking Piazza dei Signori, this civic building is one of Palladio’s most iconic works. The loggias of white stone wrap around an earlier Gothic structure, showcasing the architect’s distinctive use of proportion and classical elements. Today, it hosts exhibitions and cultural events throughout the year.
  • Villa La Rotonda: Located just outside the city, this symmetrical villa was one of Palladio’s most influential designs. With four identical façades and a central dome, it became a model for neoclassical architecture across Europe. Though private, it is open to visitors on select days.
  • Corso Palladio and Historic Centre: The city’s main thoroughfare, Corso Palladio, is lined with elegant buildings, boutiques, and cafés. Walking through the historic centre reveals a wealth of Renaissance palaces and churches, many designed or influenced by Palladio and his followers.
  • Day Trip to Marostica: Around 30 minutes away, Marostica is a walled town famous for its live chess events in Piazza degli Scacchi. It offers additional cultural charm with its upper and lower castles and makes an ideal complement to Vicenza’s architectural focus.

Tours and Activities

Vicenza Tours and Activities

Where to Eat

Where to Eat in Vicenza
  • Osteria dei Cavalieri: Located in the heart of Vicenza, Osteria dei Cavalieri offers a traditional dining experience with a focus on local Veneto cuisine. Known for its fresh pasta dishes such as bigoli (thick pasta) with duck ragu, and risotto with radicchio, the restaurant offers authentic regional flavours in a rustic, welcoming atmosphere. The attentive service and charming decor make it a great spot for a casual yet satisfying meal. Price Guide: €€ (Affordable)
  • Ristorante Al Tino: Ristorante Al Tino is a refined dining spot that offers a contemporary twist on traditional Venetian and Veneto cuisine. The menu includes creative dishes such as risotto with seafood, beef with balsamic vinegar, and seasonal vegetables. With a modern interior and an extensive wine list, this restaurant offers an elevated dining experience in Vicenza. Price Guide: €€€ (Mid-range)
  • Trattoria Da Remo: A family-run trattoria known for its hearty local dishes, Trattoria Da Remo is located just outside the city centre and offers a casual, rustic atmosphere. The menu features classic Veneto favourites like risotto, grilled meats, and fresh pasta with seasonal ingredients. The warm service and traditional setting make it a great choice for an authentic, homey meal. Price Guide: €€ (Affordable)
  • Ristorante Il Ceppo: For those looking for a more refined experience, Ristorante Il Ceppo offers a sophisticated menu focused on locally sourced ingredients and modern culinary techniques. Known for its innovative presentations and seasonal offerings, the restaurant serves dishes like slow-cooked meats, risotto with herbs, and creative seafood options. The elegant decor and exceptional service make it ideal for a special occasion. Price Guide: €€€ (Mid-range)
  • Ristorante Le Calandre: A Michelin three-star restaurant just outside Vicenza, Ristorante Le Calandre is led by chef Massimiliano Alajmo, offering a cutting-edge approach to Italian cuisine. The tasting menus feature dishes that combine local ingredients with modern techniques, including options like risotto with truffle and creative seafood preparations. The elegant, contemporary atmosphere and world-class service make it one of the best fine dining experiences in the region. Price Guide: €€€€ (High-end)

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Places Close to [Place Name]

Places Close to Vicenza
  • Verona (approx. 70 km west of Vicenza): A city renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, and connections to Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet." Key sights include the Arena di Verona, the well-preserved Roman amphitheatre, the charming Piazza delle Erbe, and Juliet’s House. Verona also offers a mix of medieval and Renaissance architecture, and the nearby hills offer scenic views of the city.
  • Padua (approx. 40 km southeast of Vicenza): Known for its medieval and Renaissance heritage, Padua is home to the famous Scrovegni Chapel, with its beautiful frescoes by Giotto. The city also boasts the University of Padua, one of the oldest universities in Europe, and the Basilica di Sant'Antonio, a major pilgrimage site. The Prato della Valle, one of Europe's largest squares, is a popular spot to relax.
  • Bassano del Grappa (approx. 40 km north of Vicenza): Situated at the foot of the Alps, Bassano del Grappa is known for its iconic wooden bridge, Ponte degli Alpini, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The town is also famous for its production of grappa, a local distilled spirit, and visitors can explore the historic centre, including the Museo Civico and the impressive Palazzo Bonaguro.
  • Marostica (approx. 30 km northeast of Vicenza): A small, charming town known for its medieval walled centre and the famous Chess Square (Piazza degli Scacchi), where a live chess game is reenacted every two years. Marostica’s historic castle, Castello Inferiore, and Castello Superiore offer scenic views and insights into the town's medieval past.
  • Soave (approx. 40 km southwest of Vicenza): A picturesque town known for its medieval castle and its production of Soave wine, one of Italy's most famous white wines. The Soave Castle, perched on a hill, offers panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards and hills. The historic centre of Soave is also home to charming streets, squares, and churches, making it a delightful spot for a day trip.
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

How to Get to [Place Name]

How to Get to Vicenza
​Using public transport you can take a train to Venice with a journey time of 43 minutes or if you drive, the same journey takes a little longer, roughly 55 minutes. Also by car you can reach the mountain town of Asiago in 1 hour 6 minutes while other options include Rovigo (1 hour 2 minutes), Treviso (1 hour 6 minutes) or Belluno (1 hr 46 mins).
Public transport: ​central train station, city buses​

​By car: ​Padua - 38 mins, Venice - 43 mins, Verona - 47 mins
Fly to: ​Verona Airport (59 km), Venice Marco Polo Airport (80 km)

​By train: Padua - 15 minutes, Venice - 43 minutes
Connected to the Italian High Speed Train Network

Private Transfers

Vicenza Private Transfers
A private transfer is a simple and efficient way to travel to or from Vicenza, whether you're connecting to an airport, arriving by train, or visiting nearby cities. You’ll be collected from your chosen location and driven directly by a local driver—no waiting, no changes, and no need to hire a car.

From Vicenza, the journey to Verona Villafranca Airport takes about 1 hour (approx. 65 kilometres), while Venice Marco Polo Airport is around 1 hour 10 minutes away (approx. 80 kilometres). Treviso Airport can be reached in approximately 1 hour 20 minutes. Shorter transfers to Padua, Bassano del Grappa, or Marostica typically take between 30 and 50 minutes by car.
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