A circular garden whose original layout has been preserved offers a special way to experience history and nature in Veneto. Founded in 1545, the Botanical Garden of Padua is the oldest surviving university botanical garden of its kind. A moat surrounds the central flowerbed. The garden displays 3,500 plant species from around the world; the collection may change. You can visit with a guided tour or independently using an audio guide included in the admission price. Check the latest ticket information before your visit, as arrangements may change.
Culture, urban history and craftsmanship
Venice and its lagoon are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Venice lies on an archipelago of 118 islands, crossed by 150 canals and connected by more than 400 bridges; gondolas are a defining feature of its transport. Cultural attractions include St Mark’s Square, the basilica, the Doge’s Palace, the Bridge of Sighs, the Rialto area and the Grand Canal. Burano is known for its colourful houses and lace-making, while Murano is known for its artistic glassmaking: two distinct cultural themes alongside the city’s landmarks.
Palladio’s works in Vicenza and Veneto are inspired by classical architecture and characterised by exceptional formal clarity. They had a lasting influence on architecture and urban planning in Europe and worldwide. Verona reveals further layers of history: Roman city gates and Renaissance bastions testify to its past as a fortified city. The historic city preserves elements of its 2,000-year history, from Roman times, the Romanesque period, the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, through to the 19th century.
The Verona Arena was built by the Romans around the middle of the 1st century AD. In summer, the Roman Theatre hosts the traditional Shakespeare festival, Estate Teatrale Veronese. The Arena continues to host performances and the world-famous Verona Opera Festival. Event dates may vary; check the relevant dates before your visit. The Roman Theatre and Archaeological Museum display Roman monuments, inscriptions, mosaics and sculptures, as well as columns from the Arena.
Dolomite trails and waterscapes
The Belluno Dolomites National Park is traversed by Dolomite High Routes No. 1 and 2, as well as a network of more than 200 kilometres of CAI hiking trails. The network comprises 52 CAI hiking trails and five via ferratas. Nature trails provide insights into local flora, vegetation, fauna and geology. Themed trails focus on other subjects, including history, archaeology, traditional human activities and geomorphology.
In the Po Delta Park, you can go on cycling excursions along the embankments beside the six branches of the Po’s mouth. The Cà Mello and Cà Pisani oases have hidden observation points for birdwatching and nature photography. Boat and canoe trips are also available. Since 2015, the Po Delta has been recognised as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve under the MAB Programme.
Rivers, vineyards and regional cuisine
The Riviera del Brenta can be explored on a trip along the river. In the Prosecco Hills near Treviso, you can enjoy wine tastings, walks through the vineyards and panoramic routes. On the Asiago Plateau and in the Seven Communities, there are places to stop for local food, including mountain cheeses, honey and mountain spirits. Alongside cities and nature trails, river exploration, vineyards and regional produce offer further distinct travel interests.
Discover more destinations: Lake Garda, Belluno, Padua, Rovigo, Treviso, Venice, Verona, Vicenza.
For the main travel overview: Italy.
