Vicenza
Vicenza
⭐ Ranked #56 in the Italy Review Top 100 – My Most Recommended Destinations
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Latest page update: 2 May 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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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. |
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What People Ask About Vicenza
What is Vicenza known for?
Is Vicenza worth visiting?
What are the top sights in Vicenza?
How do I get to Vicenza from Venice?
What is the connection between Palladio and Vicenza?
Related links
Overview
Overview
Vicenza is a historic city located in the Veneto region of northern Italy, known for its impressive architecture and cultural heritage. The city is famed for its association with the renowned architect Andrea Palladio, whose influence can be seen in many of the town's buildings. Vicenza's well-preserved historic centre features a mix of Renaissance and neoclassical architecture, including the iconic Palladian Villas and the Teatro Olimpico, one of the oldest surviving theatres in the world. The city’s elegant piazzas, narrow streets, and historic buildings offer a glimpse into its prosperous past.
Visitors to Vicenza can explore the many architectural landmarks, including the Palladian Basilica, the Villa La Rotonda, and the magnificent Palazzo Chiericati, which houses the city's art museum. The Teatro Olimpico is also a must-see, with its stunning stage design and intricate woodwork. The city is perfect for those interested in art, history, and architecture, offering a wealth of cultural sites to explore.
The surrounding area offers a variety of attractions, including the famous Palladian Villas of Veneto, which are scattered throughout the countryside, offering a glimpse into the region's architectural legacy. The nearby Berici Hills provide opportunities for hiking and enjoying the picturesque landscapes of the area, while the town of Marostica is known for its medieval castle and the famous human chessboard event held every two years. Additionally, the city of Bassano del Grappa, with its charming bridges and historical sites, is a short distance away, making it easy to explore even more of Veneto’s cultural and natural offerings.
Visitors to Vicenza can explore the many architectural landmarks, including the Palladian Basilica, the Villa La Rotonda, and the magnificent Palazzo Chiericati, which houses the city's art museum. The Teatro Olimpico is also a must-see, with its stunning stage design and intricate woodwork. The city is perfect for those interested in art, history, and architecture, offering a wealth of cultural sites to explore.
The surrounding area offers a variety of attractions, including the famous Palladian Villas of Veneto, which are scattered throughout the countryside, offering a glimpse into the region's architectural legacy. The nearby Berici Hills provide opportunities for hiking and enjoying the picturesque landscapes of the area, while the town of Marostica is known for its medieval castle and the famous human chessboard event held every two years. Additionally, the city of Bassano del Grappa, with its charming bridges and historical sites, is a short distance away, making it easy to explore even more of Veneto’s cultural and natural offerings.
Things to Do
Things to Do
- 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 & Activities
Comune di Vicenza
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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
City of Vicenza and the Palladian Villas of the Veneto
Year: 1994
Where to Stay
Where to Stay
- Hotel De La Ville Located in the heart of Vicenza, this elegant hotel offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities, a restaurant serving traditional Veneto cuisine, and a bar. Guests appreciate the central location, excellent service, and proximity to Vicenza’s main attractions, including the Teatro Olimpico and the Basilica Palladiana. €€ (mid-range)
- B&B Vicenza San Rocco Situated just outside the town centre, this cozy bed and breakfast features modern rooms, a relaxing garden, and a homemade breakfast served each morning. Visitors enjoy the personal touch of the hosts, the peaceful setting, and the easy access to Vicenza’s historical sites and nearby attractions. €€ (mid-range)
- Hotel Campo Marzio Set in the historic centre, this well-regarded hotel offers comfortable rooms with views of the surrounding city, a wellness centre, and a restaurant serving local dishes. Guests enjoy the friendly service, good value for money, and the short walk to Vicenza’s cultural sites, including the Palazzo Chiericati and the Museo Palladio. €€ (mid-range)
- Hotel Viest Located a short drive from the city centre, this modern hotel offers comfortable rooms with scenic views, a wellness centre, and a restaurant serving traditional Veneto dishes. Guests enjoy the relaxing atmosphere, friendly service, and the convenient access to both Vicenza’s attractions and nearby hiking trails. €€ (mid-range)
- Hotel Castelli Set in a tranquil location near Vicenza, this luxury hotel offers elegant rooms with panoramic views of the surrounding hills, a full-service spa, an outdoor pool, and a restaurant serving high-quality Veneto cuisine. Guests enjoy the luxurious amenities, exceptional service, and the short drive to Vicenza’s cultural landmarks and nearby nature reserves. €€€ (high-end)
Where to Eat
Where to Eat
- 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)
Photo Gallery
Photo Gallery
Nearby Places
Nearby Places
- 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
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 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).
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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
