Costanza & Joshua
Things To Do | Dintorni
La Basilica Palladiana
The Palladian Basilica is possibly the building most symbolic of the city of Vicenza. The archways and Palladian windows (serliane) were added on a pre-existing building starting in 1549 based on a design by Andrea Palladio. The Torre Bissara, a tower also located in Piazza dei Signori, is as old as 1172, though it also received additions and modifications over time.
Teatro Olimpico
Like many other notable buildings in Vicenza, the Teatro Olimpico was designed by Palladio. Constructed in 1580 to 1585, it is the oldest surviving Renaissance theater. The onstage trompe-l'œil scenery was designed by Vincenzo Scamozzi. This 1585 scenery depicts the city streets of Thebes stretching off into the distance, and is the oldest stage set still in existence. Josh's theater background made this a must-see stop on his first trip to Vicenza.
Villa La Rotonda
One of Andrea Palladio's most well-known villas, Villa Almerico Capra Valmarana is also known as Villa La Rotonda. The villa was started in 1567 and completed in 1592. It was inspired by the Pantheon in Rome (one of Costanza's favorite buildings) and has porticos on all four sides.
Scacchi a Marostica
This live, human-sized chess game is held in the city of Marostica every two years. This year, the event will be held on September 9th - 11th, making it an option for anyone who wants to do something unique in the area! Check out the website for more background and for tickets.
Palladio Museum
If you're interested in architecture, this museum has information on Andrea Palladio in both English and Italian.
Santa Corona
A gorgeous 13th century church near to the town center that Josh highly recommends. Construction began in 1261. There are amazing works of art (including the "Baptism of Christ" by Bellini) with beautiful masonry in the chancel.
Abbey of St. Augustine
Though we could not use the Abbey of St. Augustine for our wedding, you can still visit! This is the church in which Costanza's parents, aunt, and grandparents were married!
Parco Querini
This historic park is a short walk from the center of Vicenza. It used to be absolutely filled with rabbits. Though there are fewer now, Josh and Costanza counted 10 the last time they were there, along with roosters and a nutria.
Bar Bianco Sandrigo - Lattebusche Sca
A bar bianco is essentially a milk bar. You can buy cheeses and meats or head to the counter for a variety of coffee drinks. Most important is the ice cream, or gelato. We personally recommend the extra dark chocolate ice cream. If you like your coffee, order un affogato with the dark chocolate ice cream - you'll get a shot of espresso poured over your gelato.
Road of 52 Tunnels
For those who want to go on an intense hike, see if the Road of 52 Tunnels fits the bill for you. Originally a military route from WWI, this road goes through several tunnels and has some steep angles. The hike is about 6.8 miles with 3,261 ft of elevation change. Do bring a flashlight and good shoes for the tunnels! Rifugio "Gen. Achille Papa" is at the top, for those who want to break for a bite to eat.
Verona
Take a day trip to Verona while you're in the area! Verona is less than an hour away by car, bus, or train. See an opera in the arena of Verona (smaller than the Colosseum in Rome, but older and much better preserved) or go check out the Castle Vecchio, just across the river from the clinic where Costanza was born. While it won't yet be the right season, Verona is also home to the pandoro, a Christmas yeasted cake which rivals (and, in our humble opinion, beats) the panettone.
Venice
A little less than an hour from Vicenza by car, train, or bus, Venice is definitely doable as a day trip or as a longer stay. Walk along the Grand Canal, cross the Rialto Bridge, and see St. Mark's Square. See a show at La Fenice, visit the Doge's Palace, or get a glassblowing tutorial in Murano. Or, try Costanza's favorite activity - get lost for a few hours amid the canals and houses and find a gem off the beaten path.