Places to Visit in Italy Instead of Venice, From Frequent Traveler

Perched on rolling hills, Asolo is a picturesque Italian town known as the “Pearl of the Province of Treviso.” Its cobblestone streets, Renaissance villas, and panoramic views have long inspired artists, writers, and royals alike.

With its rich history and serene setting, Asolo offers a perfect blend of culture and beauty, fostering a truly romantic atmosphere. Plus, it’s only an hour drive from Venice.

While visiting, I toured the city’s fortress and went prosecco tasting at the modern Progress Country and Wine House. I also sipped a Bellini with a sweeping sunset view at the famous Hotel Villa Cipriani.

In my opinion, Treviso is like a mini version of Venice, but with fewer crowds and a more laid-back atmosphere.

Located about 40 minutes from its more popular counterpart, you’ll find plenty of winding canals, cobblestone streets, frescoed houses, and elegant piazzas dripping in historical landmarks. In my opinion, Treviso combines history, art, and gastronomy in a way that feels both authentic and enchanting.

Be sure to stop for lunch and a spritz at Odeon Alla Colonna, visit the Treviso Cathedral (Duomo di Treviso), browse the high-end boutiques, and explore the heart of the city in Piazza dei Signori.

Wine connoisseurs will love Valdobbiadene, a beautiful hilltop town about an hour from Venice that’s best known as one of the main centers for prosecco production.

Surrounded by rolling vineyards and scenic countryside, it offers a chance to explore local wineries and taste some delicious sparkling wines. The town itself is peaceful and charming, with panoramic valley views and a slower pace that invites you to linger.

I opted for a prosecco and wine tasting at Fasol Menin, a modern winery and tasting room filled with funky art and vineyard views.

Then, I headed to Piazza Guglielmo Marconi, where I indulged in gelato, enjoyed lunch at a café, and took in the city landmarks against the dreamy hillside ambiance.

Cittadella, located about an hour from Venice, is a fascinating medieval Italian town best known for its perfectly preserved 13th-century walls that still encircle the historic center.

Unique among fortified towns, its ramparts are fully walkable, offering panoramic views over red-tiled rooftops and the Veneto countryside.

Inside, cobblestone streets lead to charming piazzas, beautiful churches, and small artisan shops. With its blend of history, culture, and authenticity, visiting Cittadella feels like stepping back in time while still enjoying the relaxed pace of modern Italian life.

Of course, walking along the top of the old city walls is a must. I also visited the city’s neoclassical cathedral (Duomo di Cittadella), enjoyed pizza at Al Cappello Ristorante, and wandered the central Piazza Pierobon.

Lake Garda is Italy’s largest lake, known for its stunning alpine-meets-Mediterranean scenery.

Located about two hours from Venice (depending on which town you’re traveling to), the dramatic mountains and charming villages frame crystal-blue waters, offering a mix of beautiful scenery, relaxation, and adventure.

With its mild climate, historic castles, and lakeside promenades, Lake Garda is a dreamy destination. There are plenty of towns to visit around the lake, but many tourists start in Sirmione, where you’ll find history, shopping, and lakeside cuisine.

From there, I recommend taking a boat tour to explore other areas of the lake and take a dip in the cool, clear water.

Vicenza, located less than an hour from Venice, is a sophisticated city known for its elegant architecture. It’s home to numerous works by Renaissance architect Andrea Palladio, including the stunning Teatro Olimpico and the Basilica Palladiana.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Vicenza blends artistic heritage with modern Italian life, offering stylish boutiques, cozy cafés, and vibrant piazzas.

Surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards, it’s also a gateway to the Palladian villas scattered across the countryside.

I can’t talk about hidden gems without mentioning Bassano del Grappa, as it’s where my family is from — and the reason for my frequent visits to Northern Italy.

This charming city is located just over an hour outside Venice and is best known for its historic and picturesque wooden bridge, the Ponte Vecchio.

Surrounded by the foothills of the Dolomite Alps, it offers a unique blend of Renaissance architecture, artisanal shops, and traditional grappa distilleries.

Its historic center is perfect for wandering cobblestone streets, sipping espresso in quiet piazzas, and enjoying views of the mountains.

I suggest having dinner at Ristorante Birraria Ottone (which my family has owned for over 150 years), browsing the local markets, getting your adrenaline rush with some paragliding, and soaking in the riverside views.