Venice is one of those great, romantic destinations that is familiar to almost every person in the world and that many people have on their bucket lists but it is not the only place worth seeing in the Veneto region of Italy, despite how it might sometimes overshadow other areas. For those who book a vacation rental in Veneto, there is so much more to see beyond the Floating City. There is, in fact, too many delights to list in one post but here is our guide to some of the other highlights of the region…
Padua & Its Artistic Wealth
Padua is a great, and exceptionally beautiful, university city. It boasts Byzantine domes rising over its basilica, a jewellery box of a chapel that was frescoed by early Renaissance master Giotto, an ancient university, one of the largest botanical gardens in Europe, sumptuous Venetian Gothic buildings, stunning piazze, and much more besides. Book a villa in Padua or visit for a day from a holiday rental in Veneto and admire the Sistine Chapel before the Sistine Chapel that is the Scrovegni Chapel, enjoy a spritz in the well-preserved surroundings of the charming 18th-century (though its appearance reflects 19th-century alterations) Caffè Pedrocchi, wander the cobbled streets and admire the elegant buildings of the former Jewish Ghetto, and soak up the poised beauty of this stately city.
Romance in Verona
Shakespeare fans and dreamers will find that beyond the romance of the canals of Venice, the romance of Verona calls just as loudly. Those who book a vacation rental in Veneto and pay a visit to Verona can explore the city in which the Bard set his beloved play, Romeo and Juliet, and even seek out Juliet’s balcony and Romeo's house. Beyond this famous connection, the city is itself listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and there is 2000 years’ worth of history and culture to dive into and some unique experiences to had! For example, you can attend a concert in the Arena, which once hosted gladiatorial games, or sip on coffee under the watchful eye of a sculpture of Italy's great poet, Dante, in the pretty Piazza dei Signori, go on a tour of the stunning churches and architectural gems from various periods throughout history, or see the whale bone hanging from an arch that was once used to advertise a store selling exotic goods. Or, if you want to take it all in at once, you can climb the 368 steps to the top of the 12th century Torre dei Lamberti (or take the lift) and admire sweeping views over the city and the surrounding vineyards…
Sparkling Days
Speaking of vineyards, Veneto is the region of Italy that produces Prosecco. So, if you are enjoying a stay in a holiday rental in Veneto, then you should definitely also enjoy at least a glass or two – particularly if you’ve just climbed to the top of the Torre dei Lamberti! Of course, the best way to experience and enjoy prosecco while exploring the region is by visiting a vineyard, touring the grounds, and joining a guided tasting session with local experts. Learn more about this sparkling tipple and maybe even pick up a couple of bottles to bring home as some tasty souvenirs!
Architectural Blueprints in Vicenza
Another of the region’s stunning cities, Vicenza is a must-see for architecture-lovers who find a villa in Veneto. The home of many of impossibly influential 16th-century architect Andrea Palladio’s most famous buildings, it is a site of pilgrimage for many enthusiasts. Like the other places on this list, there is more to Vicenza than its most famous association and, yet, it is well-worth visiting to see these architectural wonders alone. The city is home to a whopping 23 of his buildings and his Villa La Rotonda, located just outside the city, is considered a masterpiece and true harmonious wonder. Paired with the city, his buildings have also been granted UNESCO World Heritage status.