Have you already explored all the major attractions of Venice? You already navigated through the Grand Canal on an authentic Gondola, visited the characteristic bacariand took a thousand pictures of the Rialto Bridge?
If this splendid city has no more secrets for you, it’s time to squeeze some day trips into your itinerary! Venice is in fact the ideal departure place to reach some of the most beautiful places of Northern Italy.
Among the places you may decide to reach, there are some you definitely cannot miss. But be careful! If you read this list about the top 5 (+1) day trips from Venice, you will probably decide to spend in Venice at least 5 days more!
1. Dolomites
The Dolomites offer the best natural landscapes of the Veneto region, with their characteristic pink colour, revealed as a secret by the sunset and dawn light.
This mountain chain, and the area surrounding it, have succeeded in maintaining the original wildness of its scenery. You can discover that with a full day trip from Venice! You will be enchanted by places like the Misurina Lake, the peaks covered with snow and the “Cinque Torri” (Five Towers) that stand out against the sky.
But, wild nature is not everything that the Dolomites have to offer: in fact this area is also characterized by the glamorous atmosphere of Cortina d’Ampezzo, one of the most famous ski areas in Italy. You will realise why this city is deservedly called the “Pearl of the Dolomites” as soon as you see it, nested in the Boite Valley, surrounded by snow or grass depending on the season, dominated by its elegant marble bell tower and framed by the three peaks of the Cime di Lavaredo.
2. Verona
Up for a day trip devoted to the theme of romanticism? Then, in a little more than one hour, you will be satisfied, if you head toward Verona, the most romantic city in Italy.
We are sure you have already heard about the most romantic and tragic story of all times, the one of Romeo and Juliet, narrated in the masterpiece by William Shakespeare. Lost beyond history and myths, Juliet’s Medieval house is a must see, including the balcony where a part of the story took place. Tradition is, visitors will leave a romantic note on the wall.
Crossed by the Adige River, and declared UNESCO World Heritage Site, the sentimental spirit of Verona can be found into each street of the historic centre, and in its most beautiful and ancient Square: Piazza Delle Erbe. Surrounded by Medieval buildings that host typical bars and restaurants, and occupied in the centre by the Fountain of Madonna Verona, is one of the most beautiful squares in Italy. You can’t miss a visit to the Arena Di Verona, the Roman amphitheatre that dominates Piazza Bra.
3. Padua
The best part of Padua is surely its medieval borgo, immersed in a timeless atmosphere. This city, location of one of Italy’s main Universities, is incredibly rich in history and architecture.
One of the most important monuments it hosts is the Sant’Antonio Basilica, home of the Saint’s remains and one of the main destinations of international religious tourism. Probably the best way to discover Padua is wondering around its medieval centre, where everything is permeated by an atmosphere from the past, and where every square and every street can tell a millennial history.
A pleasant continuation of the tour of Padua from Venice may consist in a boat tour of the Brenta River, surrounded by elegant villas, enriched by frescoes and art pieces from every age.
4. Valpolicella
This day tour from Venice will be a dream coming true for all wine lovers. The Valpolicella region is in fact the hometown of the Amarone, the red DOCG wine that is the local specialty, and is only produced here.
Among its green rolling hills, and through the eight small villages that are part of the area, you will find the real, authentic Italy.
Driving across Dolcè, the central Fumane or the impressive Pescantina, you will find the best Italian vineyards, typical local restaurants, and the characteristic wine cellars where you can enjoy an Amarone wine tasting. Check out our day trip departing from Venice to explore this wonderful region!
5. Trieste
Trieste entered in this “Top 5” as the most international city of Italy, a city with a cosmopolite identity, made unique by the profile of the Miramare Castle, facing the Gulf of Trieste and surrounded by an amazing park. A picturesque city on the sea, Trieste is filled with old handicraft shops and palaces in Liberty style, giving to its streets a unique elegance, which will simply amaze you.
Each one of the monuments decorating the city is breathtaking: Palazzo del Municipio, Piazza Unità d’Italia, Palazzo delle Poste, just to mention some of them.
(+1). Chioggia
Also known as “Little Venice”, Chioggia is a lovely fishing village in the southern part of the Lagoon of Venice. Its historic centre is crossed by picturesque pedestrian alleys filled with handicraft shops and bars that will enlive your exploration. Also, at about 2 kilometers from the port, you will find beautiful white-sand beaches.
Make sure to visit the most enchanting corners of the city such as Piazzetta Vigo, the white marble bridge that crosses the Vena Canal to the Church of San Domenico, and the picturesque port where the water-buses and tourist boats dock. Also, not to be missed is the Duomo, with its marble pulpit with gold canopy and a decorated 17th century altar.
