Vicenza, Italy: The Ultimate Travel Guide 2026

vicenza
vicenza

Vicenza  is a city in north-eastern Italy. It is in the Veneto region at the northern base of the Monte Berico, where it straddles the Bacchiglione River. Vicenza is approximately 60 kilometres (37 mi) west of Venice and 200 kilometres (120 mi) east of Milan. Vicenza is a thriving and cosmopolitan city, with a rich history and culture, and many museums, art galleries, piazzas, villas, churches and elegant Renaissance palazzi.

The great Renaissance architect Palladio left his mark all over this contented city (which has built much of its modern wealth on textiles and computer components). Indeed, Palladio didn’t stop within the city limits, spattering the hinterland with villas for the grand families of the Venetian Republic such as his renowned Teatro Olimpico (Olympic Theater), the “city of Palladio” has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1994.

Vicenza flourished as the Roman Vicentia. In 1404 it became part of the Venetian Republic. Testimony to the close ties between the lagoon city and Vicenza are the many Venetian Gothic mansions, not to mention the statues of the lion of St Mark and St Theodore that grace Piazza dei Signori.

History of Vicenza

Vicenza in Ancient Times: Venetic and Roman Foundations

The early history of Vicenza begins with the Veneti people, who settled the area before the rise of Rome. By the 2nd century BCE, Vicenza had become part of the Roman Republic and was granted municipal status. Known as Vicetia, the city developed steadily, benefiting from its location along important trade routes. Under Roman rule, Vicenza saw the construction of typical urban infrastructure such as roads, aqueducts, and public buildings. While it never reached the size or importance of cities like Verona or Padua, Vicenza served as a stable and prosperous provincial town within the Empire.

Vicenza in the Middle Ages: From Collapse to Commune

After the fall of the Western Roman Empire, Vicenza endured a series of invasions and political changes, falling under the control of the Ostrogoths, Lombards, and Franks. During the early medieval period, the city was governed by bishops who wielded both religious and secular authority. By the 11th century, Vicenza evolved into a self-governing commune, part of the growing movement of civic autonomy across northern Italy. However, this period was also marked by conflicts with neighboring cities, including Padua and Verona, as well as internal factionalism between powerful families and political factions like the Guelphs and Ghibellines.

Vicenza in the Renaissance: The Age of Palladio

The Renaissance ushered in Vicenza’s golden age, particularly in the 16th century, when the city came under the stable rule of the Republic of Venice. It was during this period that Vicenza’s most famous citizen, the architect Andrea Palladio, transformed the cityscape. Palladio designed a remarkable array of villas, palaces, and civic buildings that still define Vicenza’s visual identity today. Notable works include the Basilica Palladiana, Teatro Olimpico, and numerous countryside villas in the surrounding region. His neoclassical style influenced European architecture for centuries and earned Vicenza recognition as a center of artistic and cultural refinement.

Vicenza in the Modern Era: From Decline to Unity

Following the fall of Venice in 1797, Vicenza was absorbed into the Napoleonic Kingdom of Italy and later transferred to Austrian control. The 19th century was a time of economic stagnation but also political awakening. Vicenza played a part in the Italian unification movement, with local resistance to Austrian rule culminating in the city’s inclusion in the Kingdom of Italy in 1866. Industrialization gradually took hold, though Vicenza maintained a strong cultural identity rooted in its Renaissance heritage.

Vicenza in the 20th and 21st Centuries: Preservation and Progress

Vicenza faced challenges during both World Wars, including damage from aerial bombings in the Second World War. Despite these hardships, the city retained much of its architectural legacy. In the post-war years, Vicenza rebuilt and expanded, developing a strong economy based on manufacturing, goldsmithing, and fashion. The city’s historical core was carefully preserved, and in 1994, Vicenza—along with Palladio’s villas in the surrounding countryside—was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Today, Vicenza is celebrated for its blend of classical architecture, modern industry, and rich cultural traditions that continue to shape its identity.

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

Read our full story here

Visiting Vicenza for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Vicenza on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

This website uses affiliate links which earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Powered by GetYourGuide

8 Best places to See in Vicenza

This complete guide to Vicenza not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.

This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Vicenza and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!

Piazza dei Signori and Loggia del Capitaniato

Piazza dei Signori and Loggia del Capitaniato
Piazza dei Signori and Loggia del Capitaniato
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Geobia
Palazzo del Capitaniato (also called the Loggia del Capitaniato or Loggia Bernarda) is one of those buildings you “visit” simply by stepping onto Piazza dei Signori and looking up. Designed by Andrea Palladio, it’s a bold civic statement opposite the Basilica Palladiana—brick and stone, giant pilasters, deep shadows under the loggia, and a façade that feels theatrical without ever being…
Location: Piazza dei Signori, Piazza dei Signori, Vicenza, Province of Vicenza, Italy | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Website | Distance: 144.0km
Visiting Piazza dei Signori and Loggia del Capitaniato

We recommend to rent a car in Italy through Discover Cars, they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies. Book your rental car here.

Basilica Palladiana

Vista sulla Basilica Palladiana Vicenza
Vista sulla Basilica Palladiana Vicenza
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Angela.grigenti
The Basilica Palladiana sits right in the middle of Vicenza’s Piazza dei Signori, and it has that rare quality of feeling both monumental and perfectly at home in everyday city life. From a distance you notice the rhythm of the white-stone loggias; up close, you start to see why this building became a calling card for Andrea Palladio, with the…
Location: Basilica Palladiana, Piazza dei Signori, Vicenza, Province of Vicenza, Italy | Hours: Opening hours: Tuesday – Sunday: 10:00–18:00. Closed on Monday. | Price: €6 standard; €4 reduced. | Website | Distance: 144.0km
Visiting Basilica Palladiana

Here is a complete selection of hotel options in Vicenza. Feel free to review each one and choose the stay that best suits your needs.

Powered by GetYourGuide

Museo Naturalistico Archeologico

Museo Naturalistico Archeologico Vicenza
Museo Naturalistico Archeologico Vicenza
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Roby 48
Tucked beside the Church of Santa Corona, the Museo Naturalistico Archeologico occupies the convent and cloisters of a former Dominican complex right in Vicenza’s historic centre. It’s a museum with a very “Vicenza” kind of charm: understated from the street, then quietly impressive once you step into the courtyards and realise you’ve landed in a space where stone, time, and…
Location: Museo Naturalistico e Archeologico di Santa Corona, Contrà Santa Corona, Vicenza, Province of Vicenza, Italy | Hours: (Summer) 01 July – 31 August: Tuesday – Sunday: 10:00–14:00. (Winter) 01 September – 30 June: Tuesday – Sunday: 10:00–18:00. Closed on Monday. Closed on 25 December & 01 January. | Price: Single cumulative full ticket (Visit to the Naturalistic Archaeological Museum, Olympic Theater, Gallerie d'Italia, Diocesan Museum and Palladiummuseum): €10. Otherwise: €3 standard; €2 reduced. Free for under 18s. | Website | Distance: 144.0km
Visiting Museo Naturalistico Archeologico

Traveling to a country with a different currency? Avoid ATM transaction fees and pay in local currency with a Wise Card. Having used it for over 5 years, we've saved loads on fees!

Palazzo Leoni Montanari

768px Palazzo leoni montanari
768px Palazzo leoni montanari
CC BY-SA 3.0 / sailko
Palazzo Leoni Montanari is one of those Vicenza surprises that catches you off guard: you step off the calm lanes near Contra’ Santa Corona, pass an elegant façade, and suddenly you’re inside a late Baroque world of sculpted decoration, dramatic staircases, and rooms designed to impress. Today it’s home to Gallerie d’Italia – Vicenza, the museum spaces and collections owned…
Location: Palazzo Leoni Montanari, Contrà Santa Corona, Vicenza, Province of Vicenza, Italy | Hours: Tuesday – Sunday: 10:00–18:00. Closed on Monday. | Price: €5 full price; €3 reduced. Free for under-18s. | Website | Distance: 144.0km
Visiting Palazzo Leoni Montanari

Palazzo Chiericati

Vicenza Palazzo Chiericati
Vicenza Palazzo Chiericati
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Ernesto Sguotti
Palazzo Chiericati is one of those places where the building is half the reason you’re there. Set on Piazza Matteotti at the edge of Vicenza’s historic centre, this Andrea Palladio-designed palace is a calm, elegant showcase of Renaissance proportion and invention, complete with the sense of “arrival” created by its raised position and broad staircase. Inside, it becomes Vicenza’s civic…
Location: Palazzo Chiericati, Piazza Matteotti, Vicenza, Province of Vicenza, Italy | Hours: Daily: 10:00–18:00. Closed on Monday; 25 December & 01 January. | Price: €8 (standard); €6 (reduced); free for under-18s (individual visitors). | Website | Distance: 144.0km
Visiting Palazzo Chiericati

Teatro Olimpico

Teatro Olimpico
Teatro Olimpico
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Miriam-36100
The Teatro Olimpico is tucked just off Vicenza’s historic centre, a short stroll from Piazza dei Signori, and it’s the kind of place that feels like you’ve walked into an architectural idea made real. Built in the 1580s from Andrea Palladio’s final designs, this is a Renaissance theatre that doesn’t merely reference the ancient world—it stages it, with a full…
Location: Teatro Olimpico, Piazza Matteotti, Vicenza, Province of Vicenza, Italy | Hours: (Winter) 01 September – 30 June; Tuesday – Sunday: 09:00–17:00. (Summer) 01 July – 31 August; Tuesday – Sunday: 10:00–18:00. Closed on Mondays, 25 December & 01 January. | Price: €12 (standard); €9 (reduced). | Website | Distance: 144.0km
Visiting Teatro Olimpico
Powered by GetYourGuide

Villa Valmarana ai Nani

Villa Valmarana ai Nani tiepolo palazzina
Villa Valmarana ai Nani tiepolo palazzina
Public Domain / Giulio Vallortigara Valmarana
Villa Valmarana ai Nani sits on the lower slopes just outside Vicenza’s historic core, close enough to feel like a city sight but with the calmer, greener mood of a hilltop estate. It’s famous for two things that sound almost contradictory: the sublime fresco cycles painted by Giambattista Tiepolo and his son Giandomenico, and the line of stone dwarf statues…
Location: Villa Valmarana ai Nani, Via dei Nani, Vicenza, Province of Vicenza, Italy | Hours: Daily: 10:00–18:00. Closed on 25 December. | Price: Standard ticket €15; reduced tickets from €12; youth (12–25) €9. | Website | Distance: 144.0km
Visiting Villa Valmarana ai Nani

Villa La Rotonda

Villa La Rotonda
Villa La Rotonda
CC BY-SA 2.0 / GDelhey
Villa La Rotonda is the postcard-perfect Palladian villa just outside Vicenza, set on a gentle rise at Via della Rotonda, 45, where the countryside starts to blur into the city’s edge. Officially known as Villa Almerico Capra Valmarana, it’s famous for its serene, mathematical symmetry: a square plan with a temple-front portico on each side, all revolving around a circular…
Location: Villa la Rotonda, Via della Rotonda, Vicenza, Province of Vicenza, Italy | Hours: (Summer) April – October, Friday – Sunday: 10:00–12:00 & 15:00–18:00. (Winter) March, November & December, Saturday – Sunday: 10:00–12:30 & 14:30–17:00. Closed on Easter Sunday; 25 December; 1 January. | Price: Adults: €12.00 | Website | Distance: 144.0km
Visiting Villa La Rotonda

Best Day Trips from Vicenza

A day trip from Vicenza offers the perfect opportunity to escape the urban rhythm and discover the surrounding region's charm. Whether you're drawn to scenic countryside, historic villages, or cultural landmarks, the area around Vicenza provides a variety of easy-to-reach destinations ideal for a one-day itinerary. If you are looking to rent a car in Italy I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Padova

Padova Italy
Padova Italy
Padova or in English Padua is a city in North Eastern Italy, and the capital of the province of the same name. It is located centrally in the Veneto region, between Venice on one side and Verona on the other. Famous as the backdrop for Shakespeare's "The Taming of the Shrew," Padua is particularly distinguished for its 14th-century Scrovegni Chapel…
Visiting Padova
Powered by GetYourGuide

Verona

verona skyline
verona skyline
Verona stands out in the Veneto region, rivalling even Venice in its abundance of Roman sites and picturesque streets adorned with pink-hued medieval buildings. This laid-back city offers a wealth of attractions, surpassing other places in the region in terms of sheer sights. While the city's allure extends beyond tourism, drawing strength from its economic success as a pivotal crossroads.…
Visiting Verona
Powered by GetYourGuide

Venice

venice rialta bridge
venice rialta bridge
Venice is one of Italy’s most picturesque cities. Beautiful floating palaces of stone surrounded by an ancient network of canals, built on a group of 118 islands and these small islands are linked with 400 bridges. These islands are located in the Venetian Lagoon, which sits just off of the mainland of Italy. With its Gothic architecture, Renaissance and Baroque buildings,…
Visiting Venice
Powered by GetYourGuide

Ferrara

ferrara
ferrara
Ferrara is a city located in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, situated near the eastern Adriatic coast and positioned at the top of Italy's boot-shaped peninsula. This charming city is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. For a period of three centuries, Ferrara was under the rule of the Este family, whose Renaissance court was renowned as one of…
Visiting Ferrara
Powered by GetYourGuide

Brescia

Brescia
Brescia
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Luca Giarelli
Brescia, nestled in the region of Lombardy in northern Italy, is a city that balances industrial might with a rich cultural heritage. Located at the foot of the Alps and close to both Lago di Garda and Lago d’Iseo, it serves as both a vibrant urban hub and a gateway to some of northern Italy’s most scenic landscapes. While it’s…
Visiting Brescia
Powered by GetYourGuide

Modena

Piazza Grande a Modena
Piazza Grande a Modena
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Albypino
Nestled in the heart of the Emilia-Romagna region in northern Italy, Modena is renowned for its delectable cuisine, a reputation rooted in its barrel-aged balsamic vinegar and exquisite cheeses. Culinary enthusiasts journey to this medieval city to savor tastes that embody the region's unique flavors. Yet, the city's allure goes beyond its gastronomic delights. Its center, a captivating blend of…
Visiting Modena
Powered by GetYourGuide

Bologna

bologna
bologna
Bologna, a captivating city, holds the distinction of being the capital and largest city of the Emilia-Romagna region. Renowned by many Italians as the second most beautiful city after Venice, it boasts a rich heritage and a vibrant atmosphere. Bologna's charm lies in its relaxed and stress-free lifestyle, accompanied by a warm and lively ambiance. Its historic center, one of…
Visiting Bologna
Powered by GetYourGuide

Parma

Parma
Parma
Parma's early history as a Roman colony along the Via Aemilia has left little visible trace in the city today. The province of Parma, in Emilia-Romagna is known for its grand palaces, elegant squares, and its role as the seat of the powerful Farnese dukes. The city also bears a French legacy due to its ownership by Napoleon's wife, Marie…
Visiting Parma
Powered by GetYourGuide

Ravenna

Ravenna
Ravenna
Situated on the eastern coast of Italy, nestled between San Marino and Bologna, Ravenna serves as the capital of the Ravenna province and stands as one of the larger cities in the Emilia-Romagna region. Throughout its illustrious history, Ravenna has held a position of great importance under various empires, including serving as the capital of the Western Roman Empire and…
Visiting Ravenna
Powered by GetYourGuide

Udine

udine italy
udine italy
Visiting Udine, located in the northeastern region of Friuli Venezia Giulia, Italy, offers a journey through a city rich in history, art, and culture. Udine is known for its charming old town, where Venetian influence is evident in its architecture and layout. The city’s centerpiece is the stunning Piazza della Libertà, often referred to as the most beautiful square in…
Visiting Udine
Powered by GetYourGuide

Where to Stay in Vicenza

Vicenza offers a variety of neighborhoods and accommodations to suit different travel preferences, from historic charm to modern convenience.

For those seeking a blend of modern amenities and proximity to the city center, the area near the train station is ideal. Here, you’ll find Hotel Campo Marzio, which offers comfortable rooms just a short walk from the historic district. Another option is SHG Hotel De La Ville, known for its contemporary design and convenient location for business travelers.

If you prefer a more tranquil setting, the Monte Berico area provides panoramic views of the city and a peaceful atmosphere. GHV Hotel offers a relaxing stay with wellness facilities, making it a great choice for those looking to unwind.

For visitors interested in exploring the outskirts of Vicenza, the San Lazzaro district is a family-friendly area with modern accommodations. Hotel Victoria features spacious rooms and a seasonal outdoor pool, catering to travelers seeking comfort and convenience.

Each of these areas provides unique experiences, allowing visitors to choose accommodations that best fit their travel needs while enjoying the rich culture and history that Vicenza has to offer.

Using the our Hotel and Accomodation map, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in Vicenza. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay.

Vicenza Accommodation Map

Best Time to Visit Vicenza

Vicenza in Spring: March to May (Best)

Spring is the best time to visit Vicenza. The city shakes off the winter chill with blossoming gardens, mild temperatures ranging from 12°C in March to around 22°C in May, and a relaxed pace perfect for sightseeing. This is the ideal season for exploring Palladian villas and strolling through the historic center without the heat or heavy crowds. Cultural life begins to pick up, and one of the seasonal highlights is Vicenza Jazz Festival, held in May, attracting international artists and filling the city’s piazzas, theaters, and bars with live music. The pleasant weather and cultural vibrancy make spring especially rewarding.

Vicenza in Summer: June to August

Summer in Vicenza is warm and sunny, with daytime temperatures often reaching above 30°C in July and August. While this is a good time for outdoor events and long daylight hours, the heat can be intense in the afternoon, and some smaller shops or restaurants may close for part of August. However, summer is also when Vicenza’s surroundings—like the Berici Hills and nearby vineyards—are most inviting for scenic drives or day trips. Classical music concerts and local food festivals in nearby villages often complement the city’s quieter summer rhythm.

Vicenza in Autumn: September to November

Autumn in Vicenza offers cooler weather, golden foliage, and a quieter atmosphere. Temperatures gradually drop from the mid-20s in September to around 10°C by November. September is an especially nice time to visit, combining warm days with thinner crowds. This season also brings Festa dei Oto, Vicenza’s most important religious and civic celebration, held in early September in honor of the Madonna of Monte Berico. The event includes fireworks, fairs, and processions. Autumn is perfect for enjoying local wines and seasonal dishes in a relaxed and authentic setting.

Vicenza in Winter: December to February

Winter in Vicenza is calm and reflective, with temperatures ranging from 0°C to 8°C. Snow is rare but not impossible, and the city’s Renaissance facades take on a peaceful charm under the soft winter light. December features festive Christmas markets and nativity scenes in Piazza dei Signori, creating a warm holiday atmosphere. While the city is quieter in January and February, it’s an excellent time for museum visits and enjoying Vicenza’s cultural heritage without the crowds. Winter is best for those seeking a slower, more intimate experience of the city.

Annual Weather Overview

  • January 8°C
  • February 11°C
  • March 15°C
  • April 19°C
  • May 22°C
  • June 28°C
  • July 31°C
  • August 29°C
  • September 26°C
  • October 21°C
  • November 12°C
  • December 8°C

How to get to Vicenza

Travelling to Vicenza by Air: The most convenient airport for reaching Vicenza is Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE), offering excellent connectivity to major international airports. International travellers find it a preferred gateway. From the airport, convenient train or bus options are available for the 1.5 to 2-hour journey to Vicenza. Verona Airport (VRN), approximately 60 kilometres from Vicenza, is also a viable alternative.

Travelling to Vicenza by Train: Italy's efficient and extensive railway network extends to Vicenza, served by the prominent Vicenza railway station along the Venice-Milan railway line. Seamless connections are available from cities such as Venice, Verona, Milan, and Florence. The train journey promises scenic views of the Italian countryside, enhancing the overall travel experience.

Travelling to Vicenza by Car: For those seeking flexibility and a desire to explore the surrounding areas at their own pace, renting a car proves to be an excellent choice. Vicenza enjoys a well-connected position within Italy’s highway system, with the A4 motorway providing convenient access to the city. However, parking in the city centre can be challenging, prompting the recommendation to park in designated areas and utilize public transportation within Vicenza. If you are looking to rent a car in Italy I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.