Padua (Travel time: 26 minutes)

If Padua were not so close to Venice, it would be one of Northern Italy’s most famous cities. Here, just a 10-minute walk from the train station, the Florentine master Giotto spent two years (1303–1305) frescoing the Scrovegni Chapel from top to bottom. His work revolutionized medieval art and introduced perspective and the humanization of figures.

Other attractions include the colossal Basilica di Sant'Antonio and Prato della Valle, Europe’s largest square. Don’t forget to visit the bustling food market at Piazza delle Erbe and sample local delicacies.

How to get to Padua from Venice: High-speed trains take just 26 minutes, while regional trains take nearly twice as long.

Verona (Travel time: 72 minutes)

In Verona, where Shakespeare set the scene for Romeo and Juliet, much has remained unchanged since the 16th century. Piazza delle Erbe still hosts a lively market, and the Roman arena is a major attraction, especially during the summer opera festival.

How to get to Verona from Venice: Trains are the fastest and easiest option, with travel times between 72 minutes and two and a half hours.

Vicenza (Travel time: 44 minutes)

Vicenza is known for its palaces designed by Andrea Palladio, and Teatro Olimpico is the city’s jewel. If you have a car, it is worth exploring the surrounding villas, such as La Rotonda.

How to get to Vicenza from Venice: High-speed trains take 44 minutes, or it is a 50-minute drive.

Lake Garda (Travel time: 93 minutes)

Italy’s largest lake, Lake Garda, is perfect for a day trip. Take a ferry to picturesque villages such as Lazise and Limone sul Garda, or visit Roman ruins at Sirmione.

How to get to Lake Garda from Venice: Take the train to Desenzano and then a ferry, or drive yourself.

Chioggia (Travel time: 75 minutes)

Chioggia resembles Venice but is a working town with fishing boats instead of tourist gondolas. Visit the church of San Domenico and experience an authentic atmosphere.

How to get to Chioggia from Venice: Take a vaporetto to Lido and continue by bus and ferry.

Ferrara (Travel time: 49 minutes)

Ferrara is a time machine back to the Renaissance with Castello Estense and Palazzo dei Diamanti. Taste traditional dishes such as pasticcio di maccheroni and salama da sugo.

How to get to Ferrara from Venice: High-speed trains take under an hour, while regional trains take 90 minutes.

Trieste (Travel time: 1 hour 50 minutes)

Trieste is known for its coffee and Habsburg architecture. Visit Castello di Miramare and take a dip in the Adriatic Sea.

How to get to Trieste from Venice: Driving is the fastest option, but trains are more relaxing.

Bologna (Travel time: 93 minutes)

Bologna is Italy’s culinary capital. Take a pasta class and sample dishes such as tagliatelle al ragù and tortellini in brodo.

How to get to Bologna from Venice: High-speed trains take about an hour and a half.

Euganean Hills (Travel time: 24 minutes)

The volcanic Euganean Hills are home to Italy’s oldest thermal spa. Visit Villa Barbarigo and enjoy the nature.

How to get to the Euganean Hills from Venice: Trains take 24–50 minutes, but a car is best for exploring the area.

The Dolomites (Travel time: 2 hours)

The Dolomites are perfect for hiking and gastronomy. Visit Cortina d’Ampezzo and learn about Ladin culture.

How to get to the Dolomites from Venice: Driving is the best option, with a travel time of two hours.

Aquileia (Travel time: 80 minutes)

Aquileia is a historical gem with Roman ruins and the magnificent Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta with mosaic floors.

How to get to Aquileia from Venice: Driving takes about 80 minutes, or take a train and bus.

Treviso (Travel time: 31 minutes)

Treviso is an elegant and calm city with art-filled churches and palaces. Visit Fontana delle Tette and Chiesa di San Nicolò.

How to get to Treviso from Venice: Trains take 30–40 minutes, or driving takes 40 minutes.