Venice fascinates visitors from all over the world. However, there are plenty of things to see around the capital of Veneto. There are many villages and historic hamlets in the surrounding area that are definitely worth a visit. If you are looking for tips for a trip out of town, or if you want to enrich your holiday with other destinations, discover the top 10 places to see near Venice.
Montagnana
Nestled in the green plains of the Veneto region, Montagnana in the province of Padua is a medieval pearl worth discovering. Surrounded by one of the best-preserved city walls in Europe, this town offers a plunge into the past, amid historic architecture and an atmosphere of times gone by.
You should not miss the Duomo di Montagnana, dedicated to Santa Maria Assunta. With its Gothic façade and interiors rich in works of art, it represents the spiritual and artistic heart of the town. No less imposing is the Castle of San Zeno, whose robust structure dominates the town skyline and is a reason to visit.
Montagnana is easily reached from the lagoon city: it takes about an hour by car, in the direction of Padua, or you can arrive by train, changing at Monselice.
Chioggia
Known as 'Little Venice', Chioggia is a charming little town at the southern end of the Venetian lagoon. Strolling along its canals, one is immediately captivated by the charm of the pastel-coloured houses and reflected bridges, a picture that closely resembles the more famous Venice, albeit quieter.
Don't forget to visit Chioggia Cathedral and stroll along Corso del Popolo. Also not to be missed is the Vena canal, which offers truly impressive views. Then, finally, consider having an aperitif with a good spritz and stopping for dinner at one of the city's bars.
Chioggia is one of the must-visit villages in the province of Venice. You can get here either by car in an hour or by sea, via the public ferry service. For many, then, it is one of the cities near Venice where to stay.
Asolo
In the province of Treviso, you can discover the beautiful village of Asolo. Those who love beautiful views of the Veneto region should not miss a visit to this town, as the centre is home to beautiful views.
The various narrow streets lead to Piazza Maggiore, the nerve centre of the medieval centre. Here, among the things to see, you will find the Duomo, also dedicated to Santa Maria Assunta, but also the Rocca, the Castle of Queen Cornaro and the Museo Civico.
Getting to Asolo from Venice will only take an hour's drive, while if you want to reach it by public transport, take a bus from Montebelluna to Asolo, and then use the shuttle service to reach the beautiful historic centre.
Citadella
Returning to the province of Padua is Cittadella, another walled city with well-preserved fortifications. A very interesting feature is that the ancient walls are walkable, so you can feel the defensive power of yesteryear.
Within the walls, the historical centre of Cittadella is a maze of cobbled streets, picturesque squares and historic buildings. Don't miss the Cathedral of San Donato and San Prosdocimo and, nearby, the Museum of Sacred Art. In the centre you will also be impressed by the Palazzo della Loggia and the Palazzo Pretorio. Finally, weather permitting, you can take a boat ride in the navigable moat around the walls.
Cittadella is also only an hour's drive from Venice, via the A4. Alternatively, by public transport, you can take a train in the direction of Treviso and change to Cittadella.
Cison di Valmarino
In the Marca Trevigiana, Cison di Valmarino is a jewel set among the Prosecco vineyards, an ideal place for lovers of good wine and natural landscapes. From the village, several paths also start to explore the area of the old mills.
If you are looking for something to see, the Brandolini Castle is an ancient residence that, although now a hotel, can be visited and has several exhibitions. No less impressive is the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, an example of 18th-century architecture. Finally, don't miss the Via dei Mulini, along small waterways.
Cison di Valmarino is just over an hour from the lagoon and can be reached by public transport by taking a bus from Conegliano.
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Arquà Petrarca
Known for being the birthplace of the famous poet Francesco Petrarca, this village offers a unique combination of history, culture and natural landscapes. Strolling through the ancient cobbled streets, you will encounter ancient buildings and romantic views of the Euganean Hills.
Petrarch's house, now converted into a museum, is a must for lovers of literature and for those who want to find out more about the poet's life. On the list of things to visit, no less fascinating is the Oratory of the Holy Trinity or the Church of Santa Maria Assunta. Finally, at the foot of the city, you will find the Lago della Costa, fed by an ancient thermal spring.
Arquà Petrarca is certainly one of the beautiful places near Mestre and Venice, as it can be reached in about 45 minutes or just over an hour with the combination of train and bus.
Abano Terme
Abano Terme, an enchanting resort in the Euganean Hills, is renowned for its healing thermal waters and relaxing atmosphere. If you are looking for a quiet place, after a long immersion in the Venetian calli, the Paduan village is the place you are looking for.
Monuments and places of interest include the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, as well as the Church of Santa Maria Assunta in Monteortone. Also not to be missed is the charming Urban Thermal Park, where you can stroll among trees and gardens. Finally, the Museo Internazionale della Maschera Amleto e Donato Sartori is a must-see, with a fascinating collection of masks from all over the world.
To get to Abano Terme from Venice, the journey time by car is about 45 minutes, but it is possible to use public transport services: there is a direct train connecting the two locations.
Caorle
Approaching Venice again, you will find Caorle. This ancient fishing village, located on the Adriatic coast, is a jewel set among beaches, sea and natural oases ideal for excursions. However, it is not only a summer destination, as it also has a notable historical centre.
Strolling through the calli, you will come across colourful houses, old churches and the characteristic St Stephen's Cathedral, dating back to 1038, and its cylindrical bell tower, a now unique symbol of the city. It can then be visited by appointment. Caorle also impresses with its culinary traditions.
From Mestre, Caorle can be easily reached by car. Alternatively use public transport, as there are trains and buses to the area.
Murano
One of the most fascinating islands in the Venetian lagoon, Murano is famous for its ancient glassmaking tradition and its picturesque lagoon environment. In particular, the colourful houses reflected in the canals are beautiful, making Murano a unique place in Italy.
In the heart of Murano, the Basilica of Santi Maria e Donato is an architectural masterpiece, dating back to the 7th century, with its intricate façade and Romanesque mosaics. Also consider visiting the Glass Museum, where you can admire a vast collection of works of art in this material, from antiquity to the present day. The picturesque streets of the island are dotted with workshops, offering the opportunity to watch master glassmakers at work and purchase authentic works of art in glass.
To reach Murano from Venice, you can take a vaporetto from various points in the city, such as the central station, making it easy to get to the island.
Burano
It is not really a village, as Burano - just like Murano - is an island in the Venice Lagoon. However, it is an ideal place for ashort day trip from the city. To discover Burano is to immerse oneself in a rainbow of colours and traditions, where brightly painted houses are reflected in the calm waters of the canals.
This island is also famous for the centuries-old art of lace-making, recognised worldwide as a symbol of refinement and craftsmanship. Strolling through the narrow streets you will find Piazza Galuppi, with several restaurants and shops, as well as the Church of San Martino.
Easily accessible by several city boat lines, it is a destination not to be missed if you plan to discover the islands of the Lagoon.
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