Vicenza: The Complete Guide

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.
Table of Contents
- History of Vicenza
- Vicenza in Ancient Times: Venetic and Roman Foundations
- Vicenza in the Middle Ages: From Collapse to Commune
- Vicenza in the Renaissance: The Age of Palladio
- Vicenza in the Modern Era: From Decline to Unity
- Vicenza in the 20th and 21st Centuries: Preservation and Progress
- 8 Best places to See in Vicenza
- Piazza dei Signori and Loggia del Capitaniato
- Basilica Palladiana and Museo Palladiano
- Museo Naturalistico e Archeologico, Vicenza
- Palazzo Leoni Montanari
- Palazzo Chiericati
- Teatro Olimpico
- Villa Valmarana (Ai Nani)
- Villa La Rotonda
- 10 Best Day Trips from Vicenza
- Where to Stay in Vicenza
- Best Time to Visit Vicenza
- Vicenza in Spring: March to May (Best)
- Vicenza in Summer: June to August
- Vicenza in Autumn: September to November
- Vicenza in Winter: December to February
- How to get to Vicenza
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.
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.
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

Location: Piazza dei Signori, Piazza dei Signori, Vicenza, Province of Vicenza, Italy | Distance: 0.9km
Visiting Piazza dei Signori and Loggia del Capitaniato
Basilica Palladiana and Museo Palladiano

Location: Basilica Palladiana, Piazza dei Signori, Vicenza, Province of Vicenza, Italy | Hours: 10am-4pm Tue-Sun | Price: basilica adult/reduced €4/2, exhibitions €10-13 | Website | Distance: 0.9km
Visiting Basilica Palladiana and Museo Palladiano
Museo Naturalistico e Archeologico, Vicenza

Location: Museo Naturalistico e Archeologico di Santa Corona, Contrà Santa Corona, Vicenza, Province of Vicenza, Italy | Hours: All Week: 09.00 – 19.00 | Price: Single cumulative full ticket (Visit to the Naturalistic Archaeological Museum, Olympic Theater, Gallerie d'Italia, Diocesan Museum and Palladiummuseum): 10 € | Website | Distance: 1.0km
Visiting Museo Naturalistico e Archeologico, Vicenza
Palazzo Leoni Montanari

Location: Palazzo Leoni Montanari, Contrà Santa Corona, Vicenza, Province of Vicenza, Italy | Hours: 10am-6pm Tue-Sun | Price: adult/reduced €5/3, or free with MuseumCard | Distance: 1.0km
Visiting Palazzo Leoni Montanari
Palazzo Chiericati

Location: Palazzo Chiericati, Piazza Matteotti, Vicenza, Province of Vicenza, Italy | Hours: 9am-5pm Tue-Sun Sep-Jun, 10am-6pm Tue-Sun Jul & Aug | Price: adult/reduced €7/5 | Website | Distance: 1.2km
Visiting Palazzo Chiericati
Teatro Olimpico

Location: Teatro Olimpico, Piazza Matteotti, Vicenza, Province of Vicenza, Italy | Hours: 9am-5pm Tue-Sun Sep-Jun, 10am-6pm Jul & Aug | Price: adult/reduced €11/8, or free with MuseumCard | Website | Distance: 1.2km
Visiting Teatro Olimpico
Villa Valmarana (Ai Nani)

Location: Villa Valmarana ai Nani, Via dei Nani, Vicenza, Province of Vicenza, Italy | Hours: 10am-6pm Mar-Oct | Price: adult/reduced €10/6 | Website | Distance: 2.0km
Visiting Villa Valmarana (Ai Nani)
Villa La Rotonda

Location: Villa la Rotonda, Via della Rotonda, Vicenza, Province of Vicenza, Italy | Hours: villa 10am-noon & 3-6pm Wed & Sat mid-Mar–mid-Nov, gardens 10am-noon & 3-6pm Tue-Sun year-round | Price: adult/child villa & gardens €10/5, gardens €5/free | Distance: 2.5km
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

Visiting Padova
Verona

Visiting Verona
Venice

Visiting Venice
Ferrara

Visiting Ferrara
Brescia

Visiting Brescia
Modena

Visiting Modena
Bologna

Visiting Bologna
Parma

Visiting Parma
Ravenna

Visiting Ravenna
Udine

Visiting Udine
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 50°F
- February 11°C 55°F
- March 15°C 63°F
- April 19°C 70°F
- May 22°C 76°F
- June 28°C 87°F
- July 31°C 91°F
- August 29°C 88°F
- September 26°C 82°F
- October 21°C 73°F
- November 12°C 58°F
- December 8°C 50°F
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.