Touring Veneto Verona, famous for Romeo and Juliet, and beautiful in its own right; Soave, a castle town, famous for its wine; Vicenza, a treasure trove of architecture; Chioggia, another town interlaced by canals; Padua, home of the world’s oldest university, as well as the oldest Italian clock; Bassano del Grappa, home of that very strong drink; Marostica, where chess is played on a huge board with live pieces dressed in Renaissance costume.
Lake Garda has a perfect climate for growing olive trees, citrus trees and grapes. Garda and Bardolino are the main towns on the shores of this beautiful lake, and the surrounding hillside is covered in olive groves, lemon and orange trees and the vineyards of the Valpolicella region.
To the north are the Dolomites and Cortina d’Ampezzo, one the world’s most fashionable ski resorts. This region is beautiful year round with magnificent scenery, fine dining and exclusive shopping.
A visit to the picturesque hillside town of Asolo is also worthwhile, especially if your visit coincides with the monthly Antique Fair. Dining at the Villa Cipriani is an unforgettable experience. | Venice Sightseeing Known as “La Serenissima”, Venice leaves an unforgettable impression on all who visit her. A day trip can never do her justice, as there is so much to see. And even though the names are famous, it is not necessary to see any particular sites and places to absorb the atmosphere and beauty of this city of canals.
The Piazza San Marco with its competing orchestras, expensive coffee and well fed pigeons is usually a must for everyone. The Basilica, The Rialto, The Bridge of Sighs and The Palace of the Doges are also names to remember. But a stroll along the smaller canals or a trip by water taxi or, even, a gondola will leave the casual tourist with an appreciation for this vibrant, artistic and historical city.
The lagoon and islands also offer different experiences – glass blowing on the island of Murano and lace making on Burano, for example; while The Lido, a 12 kilometer island is just ten minutes from San Marco, where you can stroll and sunbathe in a resort-like atmosphere. The Lido is also home to the Venice Film Festival each September. |
 Veneto DiningVenice has its own history of fine cuisine. As you venture inland, dishes become more simple and hearty, with a predominance of pork, game and wild mushrooms, all of excellent quality.
Risotto is very popular and there are dozens of variations using anything from wild mushrooms, ala primavera with spring vegetables, to the region's famous seafood. Polenta, a versatile semolina based porridge is often served alone, as a base for antipasti or as a side dish to main courses. Risi e bisi is a dish of rice and peas that is simple yet delicious.
Seafood ranging from prawns, shrimp and clams to fresh fish and eels play an important part of the local diet and are proudly displayed in the markets and restaurants. Wild game such as rabbit, duck, pigeon and guinea fowl are also favorites. Fegato alla Veneziana is a Venetian dish of calf’s liver fried with onions and served with new potatoes and sweet peas – highly recommended. Soave and Valpollicella are the best known names in wine. Amarone is a rich wine favored by many locals, and Bardolino from the hills overlooking Lake Garda is light and delicious.
In the central region, you can sample the Prosecco, a sweeter bubbly white, while Pinots, Merlots and Cabernets are also to be found. And you should always end your meal with the delicious coffee, roasted in Venice, of course!
A tour of Veneto could mean a Veneto driving tour, skiing in the Dolomites at the chic Cortina d'Amprezzo, or sun bathing at The Lido beaches. You might find Romeo and Juliet while you explore Verona, or feel like royalty as you check out the impressive castles in Soave. Venice is absolutely a must see and might be a holiday on its own. Either way while you are there make sure to see the glass blowing in Murano and buy a piece or two as it is of the best quality. Veneto Tourist Information Guide is your source for the best of Veneto! |
