Padua: Although it takes just under an hour to drive to Padua from Venice, this charming medieval town seems a world away. Often overlooked by visitors, perhaps due to the town’s proximity to Venice, Padua is one of Europe’s great cultural and artistic destinations. The main attraction is the Scrovegni Chapel, with its priceless frescoes by Giotto. The cobbled streets of Padua’s medieval old town are lined with antique shops, cafés and restaurants, and are noticeably less crowded than the bustling streets of Venice.
Verona: Verona is one of the most charming places to visit throughout Italy, and can be reached in under an hour and 30 minutes travelling from Venice by car. There is plenty to see here, from Roman ruins to the so-called ‘Juliet’s Balcony’. The town is a magnet for visitors, particularly during the summer opera season. The ancient arena, which is one of Italy’s best-preserved Roman amphitheatres, provides the stunning back-drop for operatic performances.
Vicenza: A thriving and cosmopolitan city with a rich cultural history, Vicenza can be reached in less than an hour when driving from Venice. The picturesque location has many museums and art galleries. However, Vicenza is most famous for the Palladian Villas of the Veneto, which have been named by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.