9+ Best Things to do in Vicenza

After living in Vicenza for a year, I can honestly say that I have fallen in love with what Vicenza has to offer. Sometimes I cannot believe I get to call this wonderful place home. I’ve come to appreciate Vicenza, a captivating city in the heart of Italy’s Veneto region, perfectly positioned between the vibrant cities of Venice and Verona.

Vicenza reveals its charm via elegant structures that line its streets. The city also offers visitors an authentic slice of Italian life away from the bustle of Italy’s major tourist hubs. It’s a place where history, art, and daily Italian life come together seamlessly, making it an unforgettable destination.

If you’re traveling here or just learned you’ll be stationed at Caserma Ederle with USAG Italy, get ready for a treat.

Here are 9+ things you can do in Vicenza

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1. Explore the historic architecture of Vicenza

Andrea Palladio, born in Veneto, began his journey as an apprentice to a sculptor in Padua before moving to nearby Vicenza. In Vicenza, he worked as a stonemason for a local mason. His career took off as he collaborated with the aristocracy in the Vicenza area, paving the way for his architectural legacy.

Here you can explore these Palladian masterpieces:

Basilica Palladiana: The Heart of Vicenza

No visit to Vicenza is complete without exploring the magnificent Basilica Palladiana. This Renaissance masterpiece, designed by the renowned architect Andrea Palladio, stands as a testament to the city’s rich architectural heritage.

Historical Significance

Constructed in the 16th century, the Basilica Palladiana showcases Palladio’s innovative use of the serliana window, which later became a hallmark of Palladian architecture. Originally built to house the city’s law courts and government offices, the building has been a centerpiece of Vicenza’s civic life for centuries.

Modern-Day Attractions

Today, the Basilica Palladiana offers visitors a blend of history and contemporary culture:

• Browse upscale shops housed within its ground floor arcades
• Attend rotating art exhibitions and cultural events in its upper levels
• Enjoy panoramic views of Vicenza from the rooftop terrace, a perfect spot for a sunset aperitivo

Pro tip: Check the Basilica’s event calendar before your visit to catch any special exhibitions or concerts that might be taking place during your stay.

This is one of my favorite places to walk around and explore. I love the views you get from the second story. In the summertime, you can make reservations and have drinks out on the top of the building.

Palazzo Chiericati

Palazzo Chiericati is a magnificent example of Palladio’s residential design, originally built as a noble family’s residence. The building features a striking colonnaded facade and spacious loggias that give it an elegant, open feel. Today, Palazzo Chiericati houses the Civic Museum. It also houses an impressive collection of Renaissance art and artifacts, making it a must-visit for art and architecture enthusiasts.

Teatro Olimpico: A Renaissance Marvel

Step into history at Teatro Olimpico, the world’s oldest surviving indoor theater and a crown jewel of Vicenza’s architectural wonders.

A Palladian Masterpiece

Designed by Andrea Palladio and completed by Vincenzo Scamozzi in 1585, Teatro Olimpico is a testament to Renaissance ingenuity. Its trompe-l’œil stage set, depicting the streets of Thebes, has remained unchanged for over four centuries, making it the oldest surviving stage set in existence.

Unique Features

• Elliptical auditorium with tiered seating reminiscent of ancient Roman theaters
• Elaborate wooden statues and stucco decorations adorning the theater
• The famous perspective scene creates an illusion of long city streets

Visitor Information

Open Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM). Guided tours are available and highly recommended to fully appreciate the theater’s historical and architectural significance. Book in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.

2. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Palladian Villas

Discovering Palladio’s Vicenza: An Architectural Journey

Vicenza is often called the “City of Palladio,” and for good reason. The works of Andrea Palladio, the influential Renaissance architect, are scattered throughout the city, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore his genius firsthand.

Must-See Palladian Buildings

• Palazzo Chiericati: Now home to the Civic Art Gallery, this palace exemplifies Palladio’s innovative approach to urban architecture.
• Loggia del Capitaniato: Located opposite the Basilica Palladiana, this building showcases Palladio’s mastery of proportion and decoration.
• Villa La Rotonda: Just outside the city center, this iconic villa is considered one of Palladio’s masterpieces, known for its perfect symmetry and harmony with the landscape.

The Palladio Museum

Housed in Palazzo Barbaran da Porto, another Palladian gem, the Palladio Museum offers an in-depth look at the architect’s life and works. Interactive exhibits and detailed models provide valuable context for understanding Palladio’s influence on Western architecture.

Palladian Walking Tour

Consider taking a self-guided or organized walking tour to fully appreciate Palladio’s impact on Vicenza. Start at the Basilica Palladiana in Piazza dei Signori, then wind your way through the city center, ending at Villa La Rotonda for a spectacular finale to your Palladian adventure.

• Villa Almerico Capra (La Rotonda) Known for its symmetrical design and central dome, this villa is one of Palladio’s masterpieces.
• Villa Foscari (La Malcontenta) Located near Venice, this villa is admired for its elegant facade and beautiful gardens.
• Villa Godi Malinverni Located in Lonedo Di Lugo, just outside of Vicenza, Palladio designed this in 1542. This is considered his first documented villa. The Villa is celebrated for its beautiful frescoes and harmonious architectural design.
  • Villa Godi Malinverni is open for individual and group visits
    • June, July,
      August and September
      Tuesday: 3pm – 7pm | Saturday: 9am – 2pm | Sunday and Holidays: 10am – 7pm
    • March, April, May
      October and November
      Tuesday: 2pm – 6pm
      Saturday: 10am – 2pm
      Sunday and Holidays: 10am – 6pm
      

3. Wander through the charming streets of the city center

Perhaps one of my favorite things to do here in Vicenza is to wander the charming streets of the city center. I love exploring with my camera and no two days are alike. Which is why I know you’ll love this too.

One of my favorite streets in Vicenza is Via Pigafetta, and conveniently, there’s an amazing café waiting for you at the end of the street. However, before you make your way to Café Pigafetta, be sure to pause and take a closer look at Casa Pigafetta.

This is a historical gem and was built in 1440 by Stefano da Ravenna for Matteo Pigafetta. This Gothic marvel is famously known as the birthplace of Antonio Pigafetta, the renowned navigator who documented Ferdinand Magellan’s first circumnavigation of the globe.

The house is beautiful with its intricate Renaissance portal adorned with the inscription “Ill n’est rose sans e pines” ( There is no rose without thorns) reflecting the family’s coat of arms.

As you slowly wander through the streets, why not check out Ponte San Michele or the St. Micheal Bridge. This bridge, I am told was created by the same architect who built the Rialto Bridge in Venice! In the spring and summer, the area comes alive with color!

4. Admire the artwork at Vicenza’s museums and galleries

Museo Civico di Palazzo Chiericati, housed in a stunning Palladian palace. This museum offers a treasure trove of artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and applied arts dating from the 13th to the 20th century.

Gallerie di Palazzo Leoni Montanari, set in a beautiful late Baroque palace. Owned by Intesa San Paolo, this gallery showcases an impressive collection of contemporary and historical artworks.

Museo del Gioiello is located in the iconic Basilica Palladiana, and is only made up of two rooms. This museum houses precious jewelry and focuses on Vicenza’s history as being the City of Gold.

5. Experience a traditional Regional Dish at local restaurants

Baccalà alla Vicentina is a beloved traditional dish from Vicenza, Italy, and it’s a delicious example of how Italian cuisine brings out the flavors of simple, quality ingredients. The dish uses dried salted cod (baccalà) that’s rehydrated and slowly cooked with onions, anchovies, milk, and olive oil, creating a rich and creamy sauce that has just the right amount of saltiness and umami flavor.

This dish has fascinating origins dating back to the 15th century, when Venetian merchants, through their trade with northern European countries, introduced dried cod to Italy. Over the centuries, it gradually evolved into a staple of the Veneto region. In particular, it gained prominence in Vicenza, where today, it is considered an integral part of the city’s cultural heritage.

6. Enjoy a Coffee in the historic City center

Antica Pasticceria Sorarù

This historic pastry shop is beloved in Vicenza for its exquisite pastries and cakes, all crafted with traditional methods and high-quality ingredients. It’s the go-to place for locals who crave a taste of authentic Venetian sweets, including seasonal specialties. The elegant interior and delicious aroma of freshly baked goods make it an irresistible spot for dessert or a midday treat.

Opera Cafè by Albachiara

Situated near the Teatro Olimpico, Opera Cafè by Albachiara combines stylish modern decor with a touch of classic Italian charm. It offers a range of light meals, coffee, and aperitivi, making it a great spot for a casual lunch or pre-dinner drinks. With its central location and inviting atmosphere, it’s a perfect place to enjoy a leisurely coffee while people-watching.

Caffetteria Bar Pigafetta

Located near the famous Palazzo Pigafetta, this charming cafeteria offers a cozy, historic ambiance with views of Vicenza’s Renaissance architecture. It’s a popular stop for coffee and traditional Italian pastries, ideal for a relaxing break after sightseeing. The café is known for its welcoming atmosphere and is frequented by both locals and tourists.

7.Relax in one of Vicenza’s beautiful parks and gardens

Parco Querini

Parco Querini is a serene oasis in the heart of Vicenza, offering lush green lawns, tree-lined pathways, and a charming central pond with a small island accessible by a picturesque bridge. This peaceful park is perfect for strolls, picnics, or simply enjoying a moment of calm. Keep an eye out for the resident turtles, rabbits, and ducks that call the pond home. If you have kids, just remind them to be friendly to animals!

Salvi Gardens Vicenza

Also known as Giardini Salvi, this historical garden is located near the city center, making it an ideal spot for a quick escape from urban life. The park features beautiful fountains, shaded seating areas, and the enchanting Loggia Valmarana, which overlooks a tranquil waterway. It’s a great place to unwind while soaking up a bit of Vicenza’s heritage.

Villa Guiccioli Historical Park

This expansive park surrounds the iconic Villa Guiccioli, a site of historical significance tied to Italy’s Risorgimento. The park combines history and nature with scenic walking trails and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. It’s a wonderful destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

8. Take a Tour to Learn about the city’s history

I am an affiliate of Viator and some great tours that are offered in Vicenza:

9. Enjoy the Markets that happen in Piazza Dei Signori and take in the Piazza

At the heart of Vicenza lies Piazza dei Signori, a stunning square that serves as the city’s main gathering place and a showcase of its architectural splendor.

Architectural Marvels

The square is framed by some of Vicenza’s most impressive buildings:

• The majestic Basilica Palladiana dominates the southern side
• The elegant Loggia del Capitaniato stands opposite
• The Torre di Piazza, or Torre Bissara, a 82-meter high clock tower, watches over the square

The Hub of City Life

Piazza dei Signori is more than just a beautiful backdrop; it’s the beating heart of Vicenza’s social scene:

• Enjoy a coffee or aperitivo at one of the many cafes lining the square
• Browse the local market held here on Tuesdays and Thursdays
• Participate in seasonal events and festivals, including the famous Vicenza Jazz Festival

Pro tip: Visit the square in the early evening to experience the traditional Italian passeggiata, where locals take a leisurely stroll, socializing and enjoying the atmosphere.

10. Climb to the top of Monte Berico for panoramic views of Vicenza

Monte Berico is a beautiful hill overlooking Vicenza, known for its sweeping views of the city and its significant religious and cultural landmarks. The hill’s crown jewel is the Sanctuary of the Madonna di Monte Berico, a stunning basilica built in the Baroque and Gothic Revival styles. This sanctuary has been a pilgrimage site for centuries, drawing visitors who come to see the statue of the Madonna, revered for performing miracles during a plague in the 15th century. The basilica’s architecture, with its intricate interiors, elegant marble columns, and an altarpiece by Paolo Veronese, is a breathtaking example of Venetian Renaissance artistry.

Beyond its spiritual importance, Monte Berico offers panoramic views of Vicenza’s red-tiled rooftops, historic buildings, and the surrounding Berici Hills. Visitors can take a peaceful stroll along the Viale X Giugno, a tree-lined avenue that ascends to the sanctuary, dotted with sculptures and small shrines. At the top, a lookout terrace provides the perfect spot to enjoy a sunset over the city. The area is also home to some excellent dining options, including a popular restaurant known for its local Veneto dishes and views. Monte Berico is a serene and picturesque retreat that beautifully combines spirituality, history, and the natural beauty of Vicenza.

11. Learn about the Tombstone of Galeazzo from Rome

If you take a stroll down Corso Palladio, and if you are paying attention you may see a curious plaque. Right in front of a bookstore, you’ll see the Tombstone of Galeazzo from Rome.

Now, this is the rough translation, but here’s how the story goes. Of course, this is after my guide had to retell it to me twice because I couldn’t believe how gruesome it was.

Galeazzo da Roma, angered by the perceived slight against his family, took drastic actions after his sister Isabetta was rejected by Alberto Valmarana. To restore their honor, he began issuing death threats to the Valmarana family.

This turmoil culminated on July 3, 1548, when Galeazzo and his accomplices invaded the Valmarana home, leading to the murders of Alberto and his brothers, along with violence against their servants and the killing of notary Monza. These events left a profound mark on Vicenza’s history.

In remembrance of these atrocities, the city erected the Infamous Colonna in Corso Palladio, built on the site of Galeazzo’s former residence. The column bears an inscription detailing the brutal events of that day. Additionally, a plaque at the end of Corso Palladio honors Galeazzo and his accomplices, serving as a testament to one of Vicenza’s darkest chapters, memorializing the victims and denouncing the perpetrators.

12. take home a one-of-a-kind souvenir

One of my favorite things I happened to take part in while living here was when our Italian class went on a field trip to Stamperia-arte-busato. This is where we made our print and had the opportunity to meet the artist behind the family-run business, Giancarlo Busato.

This establishment has been around 70 years and it was quite an amazing activity that we got to participate in. Not only that but to learn from someone who treasures the art of Lithography. What a great memory to hang on your wall!

This would be a great souvenir to take home with you if you are visiting here or even stationed here with the U.S. military.

You’ll need to make reservations, Litografia Busato

13. Visit the Roman Ruins

Head to any blog and they will mention the Roman cryptoporticus. These are ruins beneath the city of Vicenza.

The archaeological area preserves the remains of a Roman cryptoporticus from the 1st century AD. The cryptoporticus, a large covered corridor, was part of a rich urban house in Vicenza and represents practically the only surviving example in the whole of Northern Italy of this type of underground environment.

You’ll need to grab one of the volunteers from the nearby church Santa Maria. It’s directly across from the entrance. You can’t miss it.

You can also head over to the Museo Diocesano and learn all about Vicenza’s history!

14. Santa Corona Church & Luigi Da Porto

Santa Corona Church, located in the heart of Vicenza, is a significant historical and artistic landmark. The church, originally founded in the 13th century, is renowned for its stunning Gothic architecture and impressive art collection.

One of its most notable features is the altarpiece by Giovanni Bellini, “The Coronation of the Virgin,” a masterpiece of Venetian Renaissance art. The church also contains works by other influential artists such as Paolo Veronese and Giambattista Tiepolo.

When we first got here, our Italian immersion class took a field trip here and I was stunned by the work that I saw. So I highly recommend coming here!

Santa Corona is also linked to Luigi Da Porto, a local writer from the 16th century who is often credited with inspiring the famous story of Romeo and Juliet. Da Porto’s Historia Novella, written in 1524, is thought to be the earliest version of the tale, which later influenced Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. Da Porto’s tomb is off to the left when you come in!

How to Get to Vicenza, Italy

Vicenza is a conveniently located city in the Veneto region, nestled between Verona and Venice, making it easy to reach by various forms of transportation.

By Train

Vicenza is well-connected to major Italian cities by train, with regular high-speed services on the Trenitalia and Italo networks.

The journey from Venice takes around 40-45 minutes, while from Verona it’s only about 20-25 minutes on a regional or high-speed train.

Travelers coming from Milan can expect a journey of 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the type of train.

The Vicenza train station is centrally located, just a short walk from the main attractions, including the historic center and the Basilica Palladiana.

By Bus

Bus services to Vicenza are frequent, particularly from nearby cities like Padova, Verona, and Venice. FlixBus and BusItalia operate routes to and from Vicenza, and the city’s main bus station is near the train station. While buses may take longer than trains, they’re usually a budget-friendly option, with travel times from Verona around 1 hour and from Venice around 1.5 hours.

By Car

Driving to Vicenza offers flexibility, especially if you plan to explore surrounding areas like the Berici Hills or nearby towns such as Bassano del Grappa. From Venice, Vicenza is about 70 km (43 miles) west, a drive of around 45 minutes to 1 hour via the A4 motorway. From Verona, it’s roughly 51 km (32 miles) east along the same motorway, a drive of about 30-40 minutes. If coming from Milan, expect a distance of over 200 km (124 miles) with a driving time of approximately 2 to 2.5 hours.

Just note that many historic areas in Vicenza are pedestrian-only, so plan to park and drive accordingly. There is such thing as a ZTL, I detail the woes of driving in Italy in a recent pos

Vicenza Tourism Office

The Tourist Office IAT Vicenza is at your disposal for information about Vicenza and its surroundings. You can buy tickets here for admission to the Teatro Olimpico and the combined tickets. 

I highly recommend stopping by the Vicenza Tourism Office so that they can orient you and you can buy a Vicenza Card.

The Vicenza Card ( € 20)  is valid for 8 days from the day of issue and it gives access to 11 sights:
Teatro Olimpico, Civic Art Gallery of Palazzo Chiericati, Natural History and Archaeological Museum, Risorgimento and Resistance Museum, Santa Corona Church, Diocesan Museum, Palladio Museum, Gallerie d’Italia – Palazzo Leoni Montanari, Palladian Basilica (exhibitions excluded), Jewellery Museum and Galleries of Palazzo Thiene.

The 4 Museums Card (€ 15)  is valid for 8 days from the day of issue and grants access to 4 sites to be chosen from the ones included in the museum network.

You can buy the cards at: Teatro Olimpico (Tourist office in Piazza Matteotti 12), Basilica Palladiana (tourist infopint at the entrance), Jewellery Museum, Gallerie d’Italia Palazzo Leoni Montanari, Palladio Museum, Museo Diocesano.

For Military Families stationed here in Vicenza, this is the perfect way to explore Vicenza and I HIGHLY recommend it to get you out of the hotel those first couple of weeks!

Conclusion

Vicenza, often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors like Venice and Verona, is a hidden gem that deserves a place on your Italian itinerary. Known as the “City of Palladio,” it showcases the architectural brilliance of Andrea Palladio through iconic landmarks like the Teatro Olimpico, Basilica Palladiana, and the stunning villas, including La Rotonda. Beyond its UNESCO-listed sites, Vicenza offers a delightful mix of history, culture, and modern charm, with vibrant markets, cozy cafes, and boutique shops adding to its allure. Don’t miss the breathtaking views from Monte Berico, where you can savor both the scenery and the region’s culinary delights. With its understated elegance, authentic charm, and welcoming ambiance, Vicenza provides a deeper connection to Italy’s cultural heritage, promising an unforgettable experience that lingers long after your visit.

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