Pictures of Vicenza

If you're planning a trip to the Veneto, try to include a few days in and around Vicenza. The city is beautiful, and even in July there are hardly any tourists—very different from Venice.

There is so much to see, but I often find that the most enjoyable part is sitting at a café in one of the piazzas and watching the locals go about their business.

In fact, sitting in a piazza is on the Italian bucket list (view list here), so this is a good place to cross off number eight on that list. Plus, in Vicenza, the people are really friendly, and you'll often end up spending hours lost in chatter with all sorts of interesting people.

Try to stay over too; our family home is a 45-minute drive north of Vicenza, but I'll often spend a few nights during the summer. If you plan to stay over, then I'd suggest you try the Glam Boutique Hotel.

I always believe that you never "know" a town until you've spent 24 hours there, and a summer evening spent in the old town of Vicenza is a wonderful experience.

Our guide to Vicenza has more on the city.

Ciao

Maria

Let's go to Vicenza....

Piazza dei Signori, Vicenza

Imagine yourself here in Vicenza with me, sitting at a cozy café in Piazza dei Signori, enjoying a cappuccino as life flows by. You’re surrounded by magnificent Renaissance buildings, with the Basilica Palladiana proudly standing watch. This piazza is a masterpiece—Palladio himself called it one of the finest in Italy, and it’s easy to see why.

It reminds me a bit of St. Mark’s Square in Venice, yet there’s something so much more authentic about it. In Venice, tourists fill the square, selfie sticks in hand, snapping away at the same sights. Here, it’s different. Locals stroll past on their daily errands, and the faces you see are those who call this place home. People stop for a chat, pick up fresh bread, or just take a moment to relax. And we’re right there with them, part of the heartbeat of Vicenza.

The vibe changes as the day moves on. In the late afternoon, the piazza takes on a magical glow. Locals and visitors gather, and you’ll find yourself drawn in by the energy. Evening here is pure enchantment, especially when the lights flicker on, casting a warm glow over the square. With a glass of prosecco in hand, the atmosphere is just perfect for a peaceful pause, soaking up the ambiance. This is the Italy we dream about—authentic, beautiful, and utterly captivating. I promise, Vicenza’s charm will capture your heart, just as it has mine.

Giardino Salvi

Giardino Salvi

The photos above were taken in Giardino Salvi, one at dawn and the other at sunset. To get here, you simply wander up the main road from the station, a busy, bustling area that quickly fades as you approach the park. Just a few steps inside, and you find yourself in a different world entirely—quiet, peaceful, and full of charm. It’s like stepping into a hidden oasis, where the noise of the city disappears and you’re surrounded by beautiful greenery and centuries-old trees.

At dawn, the soft light casts a serene glow over the park, making it feel almost magical. In the evening, the warm sunset hues bring a calming energy, perfect for unwinding after a busy day. It’s a place where you can relax, take a moment to breathe, and forget about everything else. Whether you’re enjoying a peaceful stroll or simply sitting on a bench, Giardino Salvi offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city. It’s the perfect spot to experience Vicenza’s more tranquil side, where nature and history blend seamlessly together. Trust me, once you’ve visited, you’ll want to return again and again.

Basilica di Vicenza

In Piazza dei Signori, you’ll discover the 12th-century Torre dei Bissari (Bissari Tower) and the 15th-century Basilica Palladiana, designed by Andrea Palladio, one of the greatest architects in history. I can’t get enough of this piazza and the buildings around it. The real magic, though, is how different the square feels at various times of the day. The colors and hues shift completely depending on the light, the weather, and even the seasons. It’s a living, breathing space that constantly transforms, giving you a new experience each time you visit.

Whether it’s the soft morning glow that casts long shadows across the square or the warm sunset light reflecting off the buildings, every moment feels special. On a crisp autumn day, the buildings take on rich golden tones, while in the summer heat, they seem to shimmer in the midday sun. It’s fascinating to see how the piazza changes with the rhythm of the day, and no matter when you visit, there’s always something new to appreciate. I could sit here for hours, just watching how the light dances across the centuries-old stone.

Piazzetta Andrea Palladio -morning and late afternoon.

One of the charming roads leading to Piazza dei Signori is a pedestrian-only street that’s perfect for sitting down with a cappuccino and watching the world go by. I love how relaxing it is here—there’s a special kind of peace as you enjoy the moment, letting the buzz of life around you drift in and out.

This area isn’t just for those who appreciate a good coffee; it’s also home to some fantastic shopping streets. Corso Andrea Palladio is one of the main ones, known for its stylish boutiques and high-end shops, though it can be a bit pricey. If you’re in the mood for a bargain, the Thursday market in Piazza dei Signori is a must-visit. The market has an incredible variety of products, from fresh, local delicacies to the latest Italian fashion trends. It's the perfect spot to find something unique while soaking in the lively atmosphere of the square.

A shopping arcade in the old town near Corso Palladio.

The two photos above show the Teatro Olimpico, which was Palladio's last work; he passed away while it was being built. You can wander the gardens outside for free, but to really appreciate the inside, try to attend one of the unforgettable summer concerts. The concerts are reason enough to spend a night in Vicenza, and the Glam Boutique, which I mentioned earlier, is only a five-minute walk from here.

The entrance to Casa Cogollo, one of Palladio's smaller works, yet still lovely.