Discover Venice and Verona (and perhaps the Dolomites)
Veneto is that Northern Italian region where everything is on your doorstep: the sea, plains, lakes, mountains, rivers, valleys, hills, large cities, walled towns, and medieval villages. To mention but a few of the travel options there!
Arrive in Venice in Style Via Water Taxi
Air travel to Italy can be exhausting. One area to not scrimp with your Euros is on transport from Venice’s Marco Polo Airport to the city. Some suggest taking a vaporetto, or water bus, but I say no. The only way to make the most of your arrival at La Serenisima is via private water taxi. Seeing the Grand Canal with its Venetian Villas is one of Italy’s real joys. Glimpsing St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco) can only stir the heart in this romantic city of Northern Italy. Be sure to watch a quality walking tour video before you go. If you have time, take a tour of the church of St. Mark, with its gold mosaics. Grab a drink at Harry’s Bar, and imagine Ernest Hemingway sitting there so long ago.
Veneto’s Smaller Cities and Towns
Spend a day or two in Verono, with the famous balcony of Romeo and Juliet, and a Roman arena. Don’t miss the delicious wine of the area, Amorone della Valpolicella. The town of Bassano del Grappa is a short drive away, with a bridge that should not be missed. Consider a tour on the River Brenta, with views of the Palladian Villas, such as Villa Pisani and Villa Emo.
Veneto’s Prosecco Country
Valdobbiadene is the heart of Prosecco Country, a charming town; however, I suggest staying in Follina Hotel Villa Abbazia, a wonderful family-run 5-star hotel in a small village, with (surprise) an abbey. Follina boasts several great restaurants, but one of the best in all of Italy is just 10 minutes up the road, Da Gigetto. Before dinner, live large and enjoy a bottle of wine in their cellar. You will be amazed.
Veneto’s Towns on Lake Garda
Sirmione is a small peninsula or point surrounded by the waters of Garda Lake. Years ago, my Uncle Mike shared this gem with me. The village is generally a pedestrian center, providing spectacular views at every turn. For accommodations, I recommend the same hotel that Uncle Mike recommended to me so long ago: Villa Carlotta, a place with an unforgettable landscape and lush gardens.
Veneto’s Mountains and Hills
Don’t miss Cortina d’Ampezzo in the magical Dolomite mountains. See our recent blog for more information on that area.
What to Eat and Drink in the Veneto, Italy?
Prosecco, prosecco, and prosecco… and maybe some polenta with mushrooms.
One week is not enough time in the Veneto region, but it will be enough time to make you want to return.
Love this area for the Prosecco and Polenta- both are family favorites!
They’re Murer favorites for sure!