The Province of Vicenza, located in the heart of the Veneto region, is a land rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. Known for its Renaissance architecture, artisan excellence, and scenic countryside, it is one of Italy's best-kept travel secrets.
From Palladio’s iconic villas to alpine foothills and centuries-old workshops, Vicenza offers visitors a rewarding and authentic experience. Whether you're passionate about art, nature, food or design, this province has layers to explore and savor.
Few places in the world are so strongly defined by a single artist as the Province of Vicenza is by Andrea Palladio. This 16th-century architect left behind an architectural legacy that defines the area, especially through his harmonious countryside villas.
Scattered across the province, masterpieces like Villa La Rotonda, Villa Barbaro and Villa Emo offer a glimpse into the ideals of beauty, proportion and elegance that influenced architecture across Europe for centuries. These villas are not just buildings, they are living symbols of Renaissance creativity.
While the city of Vicenza is the provincial capital, the surrounding towns and villages are rich with charm and character. Marostica, famous for its life-sized chess game held every two years in the main square, is a gem of medieval architecture and traditions.
Nearby Bassano del Grappa, set against the backdrop of the Brenta River and Mount Grappa, offers stunning views, wooden bridges, artisan distilleries and vibrant markets. These towns combine history and hospitality in perfect measure, making them must-visits.
The northern part of the province rises into the Altopiano di Asiago, a high plateau known for its forests, mountain meadows, and winter sports. In summer, it is a haven for hiking, cycling and nature lovers, with cool temperatures and vast open skies.
In winter, the plateau becomes a snowy wonderland offering skiing and cross-country trails. Asiago is also famous for its cheese, one of Italy's finest DOP products, produced in the area’s traditional alpine dairies and enjoyed across the country.
The Province of Vicenza is one of Italy’s most important centers for artisan craft and design. From goldsmiths and jewelers to furniture makers and textile artisans, generations of skilled workers have shaped the province’s economic and cultural identity.
Towns like Nove and Sandrigo are known for ceramics and porcelain, while the gold district around Vicenza itself is internationally renowned. The balance between tradition and innovation keeps the province’s handmade industries relevant in today’s global world.
Vicenza's cuisine is rooted in the land and closely tied to seasonal rhythms. Signature dishes include baccalà alla vicentina (salt cod slow-cooked in milk and onions), risotto with local herbs, and grilled meats from the hills.
The province is also home to excellent wines such as Gambellara and Breganze, produced in rolling vineyards between the hills. Farmhouses and trattorias across the countryside welcome travelers with menus full of honest flavors and local pride.
Aside from the mountains and plateaus, the Province of Vicenza includes river valleys, vineyards, and protected natural parks. The Berici Hills to the south of Vicenza offer dramatic rock formations, caves, and panoramic walking trails.
The Agno and Brenta valleys provide fertile agricultural land and picturesque scenery, dotted with small villages and historic churches. These landscapes invite exploration at a slower pace, ideal for cyclists, photographers, and nature lovers.
The traditions of the Province of Vicenza come alive through its festivals and celebrations. From medieval pageants in Marostica to food fairs in Sandrigo, and the Grappa festival in Bassano, local culture is proudly shared with visitors.
Seasonal events feature music, markets, parades and traditional costumes, offering immersive glimpses into the heritage of the region. For travelers looking to connect with the real rhythm of Veneto life, these moments are pure gold.
What makes the Province of Vicenza so special is its diversity. In one day, you can admire Renaissance architecture, explore alpine trails, enjoy wine tastings in the hills, and shop for artisan gold jewelry, all within a short drive.
It is a destination where elegance and simplicity coexist. Whether you're planning a cultural holiday, an active escape or a romantic retreat, Vicenza offers a rich mosaic of experiences that reveal the very soul of Italy’s Veneto region.
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High | Low | Sun | Rain | |
Jan | 9 | 2 | 3 | 55 |
Feb | 11 | 3 | 4 | 53 |
Mar | 13 | 4 | 5 | 63 |
Apr | 17 | 7 | 6 | 55 |
May | 21 | 11 | 8 | 35 |
Jun | 25 | 15 | 9 | 44 |
Jul | 28 | 17 | 10 | 34 |
Aug | 28 | 17 | 9 | 54 |
Sep | 25 | 14 | 7 | 61 |
Oct | 20 | 11 | 6 | 74 |
Nov | 15 | 8 | 4 | 71 |
Dec | 12 | 3 | 3 | 77 |
Table Key: High - Average monthly high temperatures Low - Average monthly low temperatures Sun - Average hours of sunshine per day Rain - Average monthly rainfall in mm |