Experiences in Vicenza

Palladio's theatre and villas, and noble castles in the green Veneto countryside.

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Vicenza

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Vicenza: Tours & Experiences

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Thiene Castle: Entrance to the 15th-century Venetian residence

Thiene Castle: Entrance to the 15th-century Venetian residence

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Frequently asked questions

Vicenza is famous for Andrea Palladio, the Renaissance architect whose buildings fill the city. The city and his villas in the Veneto are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Yes. The gardens and, on some days, the interior are open to visitors. Opening days change by season.

The Castle of Thiene, about 20 km north, is a 15th-century noble residence open to visitors. Marostica has two castles linked by walls.

One day covers the main Palladian sights in the centre, and the train from Venice takes about 45 minutes. Add a second day for the villas and castles in the countryside.

The signature dish is baccalà alla vicentina, dried cod slowly cooked in milk and served with polenta. Asiago cheese and white asparagus from Bassano also come from the province.

Few cities carry one architect's name as clearly as Vicenza. Andrea Palladio shaped its streets in the 16th century, and his villas still stand in the countryside around it, among castles and noble houses. See tickets for Vicenza and its province below.

About Vicenza

The City of Vicenza and the Palladian Villas of the Veneto form a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the centre, the Basilica Palladiana faces Piazza dei Signori, and the Teatro Olimpico (1585) is the oldest surviving indoor theatre with its original stage set. On a hill outside the centre, Villa La Rotonda inspired buildings from England to the United States.

The province also holds medieval and Renaissance castles, such as the Castle of Thiene, and the walled towns of Marostica and Bassano del Grappa. The Monte Berico sanctuary gives the best view over the city.

What to expect on a Vicenza experience

Visits around Vicenza focus on architecture and history:

Palladian sites — the theatre, palaces and villas.
Castles and noble houses — frescoed halls, stables and parks.
Day trips — Bassano del Grappa, Marostica and the hills.

Best time to visit

April to June and September to October are ideal for villas and gardens. Some villas open only from spring to autumn, so check the dates before you go. In September and October, the Teatro Olimpico hosts its season of classical plays.

Getting around

Vicenza is on the rail line between Venice and Verona, about 45 minutes from Venice and 30 minutes from Verona. The historic centre is small and easy on foot. Villas and castles are spread through the countryside, so a car or a guided visit helps.