Hidden Italy: Padova, Vicenza & Mantova

Overview

This tour takes you through the stunning Veneto region of Italy, rich in history, culture, architecture, and fine wines. You’ll experience picturesque cities like Vicenza, Padova, and Mantova, each filled with historical sites and stunning architecture. From ancient towns to beautiful landscapes like Lake Garda and the Dolomites, the tour blends Italy’s historical legacy with its vibrant modern-day life.

At a Glance:

• 5 nights in four-star accommodation
• Return flights & transfers included
• 7 included experiences
• Bed & breakfast included
• Expert Tour Manager for guidance
• Checked luggage included
• Smaller group sizes for 2025 & 2026 (Maximum of 36 on a classic tour)

Tour Highlights:

• Castelfranco Veneto: Stay in this medieval town, with spectacular views of its well-preserved walled old town.
• Mantova: Visit this atmospheric city, a muse for artists, poets, and composers, and explore its rich cultural history.
• Vicenza: Discover this city’s ancient and modern blend, home to some of Palladio’s most famous architectural masterpieces. Enjoy a complimentary museum pass for access to world-class attractions.
• Bassano del Grappa: Experience the picturesque riverside town nestled at the foot of the Prealps and taste its world-famous grappa liqueur.
• Villa Sandi: Tour the palatial headquarters of a renowned Prosecco producer and explore its impressive underground cellars where the sparkling wine is aged.
• Padova: Visit this ancient city known for its diverse architectural styles. Explore the famed University of Padova, where Galileo once taught. Choose to visit the Palazzo Ducale or the Sigurtà Garden Park for a relaxing afternoon.

Itinerary Details

Day 1: Arrival in Venice & Castelfranco Veneto

• Arrival in Venice or Treviso airport and transfer to Castelfranco Veneto, your base for the next five nights.
• Explore Castelfranco Veneto, a medieval town with preserved walls and towers. Visit the Giorgione’s Madonna and Child in the cathedral and the 18th-century Academic Theatre.

Day 2: Brenta Canal Cruise & Padova

• Brenta Canal Cruise: Take a mini-cruise past Venetian villas, like Villa Widmann, with panoramic views.
• Padova: Visit the Basilica di Santa Antonio, Cappella degli Scrovegni with Giotto’s frescoes, and Caffè Pedrocchi, a historic student café. Discover the University of Padova, once home to Galileo and Copernicus.

Day 3: Vicenza

• Explore Vicenza, a city renowned for its Palladian architecture. Visit the Piazza dei Signori, Teatro Olimpico, and the famous Palladian Villas. The city’s blend of Renaissance and modern buildings makes it an architectural treasure.

Day 4: Mantova & Parco Sigurtà

• Visit Mantova, a medieval city with UNESCO status. Explore the Palazzo Ducale, Gonzaga family legacy, and Rigoletto‘s setting.
• In the afternoon, visit Parco Sigurtà, a stunning 148-acre garden with tulips, roses, lakes, and an award-winning maze.

Day 5: Bassano del Grappa & Villa Sandi

• Visit Bassano del Grappa, known for its picturesque Ponte degli Alpini bridge. Visit a local grappa distillery to taste different varieties of this traditional after-dinner drink.
• Continue to Villa Sandi, a prestigious Prosecco-producing winery. Take a tour of the underground cellars, where you’ll taste the famous sparkling wine.

Day 6: Return Flight

• After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your return flight.

Key Highlights

• Veneto’s Rich History: From ancient towns to Renaissance masterpieces, explore a region steeped in history.
• Palladian Architecture: Visit the iconic buildings designed by Andrea Palladio in Vicenza.
• Cultural Immersion: Explore historical cities like Mantova, Padova, and Bassano del Grappa.
• Prosecco and Grappa: Taste the world-famous Prosecco at Villa Sandi and sample grappa in Bassano del Grappa.
• Stunning Landscapes: Marvel at the views of the Dolomites, Lake Garda, and the Brenta Canal.

Culinary Delights

• Savor regional dishes like polenta and risotto, fresh fish, and seasonal produce.
• Enjoy the famous Prosecco from the Veneto region and learn about its production.

This tour offers a perfect blend of art, culture, history, and food, set in one of Italy’s most beautiful and lesser-explored regions.