Things to do in Vicenza Italy: Palladian architecture and more
Things to do in Vicenza Italy
Along with the excellent food, wine and weather, a visit to Italy is also a treat for the architectural senses. And one such place where you’ll find all 3 is the northern Italy city of Vicenza. From Renaissance to Palladian architecture, your eyes will marvel at the intricate detailing and overall magnitude.
For anyone wanting to see the best architectural sights in Italy, heading to Rome or Florence is a safe bet. However, there are many other places — and lesser known — that deserve a look-in.
Vicenza is a small, yet place of architectural importance in the region of Veneto. Weather in Vicenza tends to adhere to season, and though it gets cold in winter, it also has long summers. It’s lesser known than neighboring Venice, but what it lacks in reputation, it makes up for in architectural delights.
Vicenza’s famous resident — Andrea Palladio
If you’ve never heard of Andrea Palladio, you’re not alone. He was one of Italy’s most prominent architects. Palladio is also one of the most influential individuals in the history of architecture.
So prolific is Palladio’s legacy, that he also has a style of architecture named after him — Palladian. Today in Vicenza, it’s not uncommon to see students from around the world visiting the city to study his masterpieces.
Palladio was born in nearby Padua in 1508, but spent the majority of his life, and work, in Vicenza. While he started his career as a stonemason, he would become the most sought-after architect in Vicenza and Venice.
1. Basilica Palladiana — things to do in Vicenza
The Basilica Palladiana is probably the most popular Palladio creation. It’s in the heart of the historic center, where you’ll also find some of the best pasticceria and bars.
This Renaissance building is also one of Palladio’s most notable works. Its most famous feature is the loggia, which shows off his architectural talent in the form of the Venetian window. A loggia’s an architectural feature that refers to a covered exterior corridor or gallery. Arches or columns support the loggia feature.
The building was formerly known as the Palazzo della Ragione, and was also the former seat of government. On the lower level were shops, which today still houses jewellery stores. To the side of the Basilica is the Torre della Bissara.
This 82m tower actually preceded the Basilica, but is a notable feature in the Piazza dei Signori.
“Teatro Olimpico…holds the title of the oldest surviving stage set.”
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2. Teatro Olimpico in Vicenza — things to do in Vicenza
The Teatro Olimpico is a must-see sight in Vicenza. It was also Palladio’s last project before he died in 1580, after which his son Silla took the lead.
The theater’s based on the model of a building that Palladio had admired for a long time: the Roman theater. Teatro Olimpico was also the first closed theater of its time. To this day, it still holds the title of the oldest surviving stage set.
Vincenzo Scamozzi designed the stunning set with its optical illusion. It consists of 5 wood and plaster streets, which the audience can view through the central arch. There are also 2 architraves that give the audience an in-depth look into the city of Thebes.
However, there’s one aspect of the theater that isn’t true to Palladio’s vision. Its circular roof is painted with a faux sky to give the illusion of an open-air classical theater. It’s unsure whether Palladio would’ve approved this change that was made during the last century.
3. Things to do in Vicenza — visit Palazzo Chiericati
Many experts consider Palazzo Chiericati to be one of Palladio’s greatest masterpieces.
Nobleman Girolamo Chiericati commissioned Palladio to design the palace. Today, it’s the Civic Art Gallery of Palazzo Chiericati, and is also home to paintings, sculptures, drawings and prints.
Palladio created a building with an arcaded façade that also embodies the features of a villa. Palladio was probably inspired by the seaside villas, modelling it on the classical port.
Inside is a central entrance hall, 2 groups of rooms each with a spiral staircase, and grand steps leading to the courtyard. The rooms are also works of art in itself. Sculptor Bartolomeo Ridolfi created the stucco ceilings in one room, while painter Brusasorzi designed the frescoes.
4. Things to do in Vicenza — see La Rotonda
Just on the outskirts of the city center is the beautiful Villa Almerico-Capra, also known as La Rotonda. Palladio designed this home for noble priest, Paolo Almerico. The priest requested a building that would amaze and astound the city’s citizens, and Palladio delivered.
Sitting on a green hill, the cube-shaped villa has a circular living area in the center. In fact, the name La Rotonda also derives from this central and circular feature.
One of the most beautiful aspects here is the head of a faun collecting rain water. Palladio designed this to signify the harmony of the sky above, entwined with the circular center, and the earth.
In every room, the doors are precisely on an axis with the windows. This means it’s always possible to view the countryside around the villa. In essence, the building’s perfect symmetry is a prime example of absolute classical beauty.
When walking around the city of Vicenza, you’ll also be able to spot many other buildings in Palladian style. Take a walk down Via Palladio, and look above to see the shop signs.
“Experts consider Palazzo Chiericati as one of Palladio’s greatest masterpieces.”
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You’ll also see buildings following the classic Palladian style, and some not so great reconstructions too.
5. Villa Pisani-Bonetti — things to do in Vicenza
Palladio designed Villa Pisani-Bonetti for the Pisani — a rich Venetian noble family. Its construction took place between 1542 and 1545. Giovanni Pisani wanted a villa that not only reflected the family’s wealth and status, but also served for farming purposes.
The villa was designed with arcaded service wings (known as barchesse) and a walled and porticoed courtyard. Head to the side facing the river Guà, and you’ll find a 3-arch loggia decorated with wide Doric columns.
Above the loggia is the Pisani coat of arms, and below, a semi-circle set of steps leading to the atrium.
Villa Pisani-Bonetti is located in Lonigo, which is in the province of Vicenza, and not the historic center. The best way to visit the villa is by car, with a journey time of around 30 minutes.
What’s more, you also have the opportunity to sleep at the historical Villa Pisani. The Barchessa di Villa Pisani is a 4-star hotel, converted from its former purpose as a farm building. On site is also the hotel’s restaurant, Osteria del Guà, which is open to the public as well as hotel guests.
Have you seen any of Palladio’s works in Vicenza or around Italy? Let me know in the comments section below. Till next time, happy and safe travels.
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Lisa Rivera
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Welcome to my site! I'm Lisa, founder of Following the Rivera. I write primarily for a ‘flashpacker’ audience; a demographic (late 20s onwards) that enjoys glamping over camping, staying at boutique/luxury boutique hotels, sampling the local food and wine, cultural activities, and indulging in a spot of wellness on their travels. Read more here…
You got that right, I’ve never heard of Andrea Palladio before, but the entire town boasts such magnificent architecture and gorgeous buildings which absolutely amaze me. I would love to visit Vicenza, and Italy has always been high up on the bucket list for me.
You won’t be disappointed, it’s a really wonderful city, and lesser known too.
We didn’t make it to Vicenza during our time in Italy and definitely seems like a mistake. I feel like I can easily point out all of the Palladian buildings in Venice now. He definitely had some great work done. The theater looks great especially considering it was the first closed in theater of its time.
Ah that’s a shame, but don’t worry, you’re not alone! I hope I’ve inspired you to visit the next time you’re back!
I love that you gawked at the architecture at these gems of destinations! I’m an architecture nut, so I really appreciate this post. I could spend hours staring at beautifully constructed buildings and their artwork. Definitely adding this to my bucket list!
That makes me happy to read! You’ll really love Vicenza if you appreciate architecture 🙂
Italy is indeed a Mecca for architecture students and conoisseurs. Of course most of the people focus on Florence and Rome. We did too, so in Italy our trips have focussed on Venice, Rome, Florence, and Pisa. But yes Vicenza is indeed nothing short of a revelation. The spirit of Palladio seems to live on in the city in his creations. Hope to plan a visit to this enchanting place next time we are in those parts.
Ah, I really hope you make it to Vicenza and see its beauty for yourself one day!
The architecture on these structures is exquisitely detailed. People in the past must have been exceptionally artistic. Now, our modern buildings look so blank despite their high-tech features.
Well said, I couldn’t agree more! Hope you get to visit one day 🙂
Vicenza is on my bucket list and I hope to explore it and its sights soon, Lisa! When would it be the best time of the year to explore it?
Hi Agness, that’s great to read! I’d advise to visit in spring or summer; it’s even more beautiful in the sunshine.
I think in general the arctitecture talks a lot about the place and its culture ( as always ) . It mostly feels like going back in time . Yesterday I was in a museum which explained how the bricks of a place were made in 1800’s and how it looks unique even now . It is so incredible to learn about it . Hope you had a great time .
You said it perfectly! The architecture here is great and I hope you see it soon.
Omg this brings back so many memories. I ended up staying with a local family in Vicenza as a teenager after working in a summer camp. What a beautiful area and it really impressed on me la dolce vita
Aww I’m glad I brought back some great memories! Hope you get to re-visit again.
I love checking out the different architectural styles in the Old World cities. They provide so much character that I’m not really accustomed to seeing. The Teatro Olimpico is quite exquisite, especially that dome roof. Although I’m not sure if Palladio would approve, I think it’s amazing. 🙂
I don’t think he would approve of the artificial sky roofing either! Come and see Teatro Olimpico for yourself!
Love your photos, the architecture and designs in Vicenza look stunning – especially the Teatro Olimpico! I’ve yet to visit Italy, hope to do so in the near future.
Thank you! Hope you get to visit one day too!
I can stay in Italy for 3 months and explore it all if time permits me!
Being an art history major, these historical sites are always my top priority.
Hope I’ll get there soon!
Aw you must visit soon, it’s a beautiful country!
Italy has such a rich history when it comes to architecture! This post proved that through and through. I love old theaters and enjoyed reaching about Teatro Olimpico. We don’t live too far from Italy, so I hope we can make it down to explore this charming and historic city!
Aww you must! Especially as you’re so close by. Teatro Olimpico is stunning and a real must see 🙂
Oh so stunning! I absolutely love places with gorgeous architecture like this – and yet I have never been to Italy! I love your photography – beautiful photos capturing the best parts of the city and architectural highlights. I still want to do the typical Italy tourist traps but Vincenza and Palladio sound amazing too and my kind of places! The Teatro Olimpico would be stunning to see in person – that dome is incredible!
Ah Juliette, you must come to Italy! If I’m there when you visit, I’ll be more than happy to show you around Vicenza 😀
Ah, Italy–I will never run out of corners to explore there! The architecture truly is amazing all over the country. I haven’t been to any of these places yet, but I’d love to go to Vicenza and see the Teatro Olimpico especially!
You must add it to your trip the next time you come back!
I would love to go there and see those architectures in person. It doesn’t look like a busy day there. Not much people roaming around.
It’s a great place, and not as busy as Venice too!
I have been to Italy many times and I have seen all the major cities. Last year however I went there for a month to discover Tuscany and the small villages and the countryside. Italy is indeed so much more than Rome and Florence. I haven’t been to Vicenza yet but I did hear about it. You have convinced me to go there next time I in the Veneto region. The Basilica Palladiana looks impressive and the architectural style does make me think of Venice actually.
I’m delighted to read this! It’s a beautiful place, and with many great sights too x
Italy is so full of architectural beauty! I would love to explore this city, especially since you mentioned that there are lesser crowds. It allows you to appreciate the scenery in peace.
You’re totally right. It’s the kind of city that you really get to appreciate 🙂
Oh wow I’m not architecture buff but show me buildings from European cities and I go gaga! The details in these structures always blow my mind…and to think they were constructed at a time when we didn’t have even a fraction of the technology we have access to today. I could easily spend days touring Vicenza at a leisurely pace 🙂
You’d love Vicenza! Your jaw will drop once you see the stunning buildings; I hope you visit one day!
I am a huge fan of Italy, from the food and culture to history and architecture. Vicenza looks and sounds absolutely beautiful! Really interesting to read about Andrea Palladio. The ceiling in the Teatro Olimpico is absolutely breathtaking!
You’ll really enjoy seeing the architectural sights in Vicenza! There’s so many beautiful buildings here, especially Teatro Olimpico 🙂
You are definitely right Italy is treat for the architecture fans indeed. I was there ones, on a road trip visiting Piza, Rome, Rimini, Venice and Verona but I am dreaming to go back and explore more! I actually never heard about Vicenza and Palladio before so I am glad I am reading about it now! Its a prove that even smaller places like that are so wonderful that you can never get bored in Italy! Your photos are stunning!
Thanks Ada! Vicenza’s a beautiful city, and I’d urge you to include it when you’re next in Italy 🙂
I’m not very versed in architecture so it was a pleasure to learn about the Palladian style and its Italian founder. This place must be a mecca for architecture and design students. It’s amazing how so much thought can go into things we often take for granted.
You’re spot on Suzanne. Italy’s a Mecca for architecture, and these particular buildings are mind blowing!
Such an interesting read! I’ve always admired Italy’s gorgeous buildings and crave to know more about them.. I’ve read some cool attractions in Vicenza before but never really had an in-depth understanding of the structures within the city. So good to know about the man behind some of the most amazing (and truly incredible) architecture that we admire the most today. I’d love to see them up close one day!
Aww thank you! Palladio was so influential, and the architecture here is just impressive. I hope you get to visit yourself one day!
Vicenza looks quite fascinating with all these beautiful buildings – definitely an architectural delight. Teatro Olimpico is an impressive building especially the beautiful paintings on the roof, the open-air illusion and the head of the faun collecting rainwater. Italy is on my bucket list and I hope to visit this place when I’ll plan my visit.
I’m happy to read that! It’s a beautiful city, and lesser known that neighbouring Venice or Verona.
Hi Lisa, Thanks for sharing this post. I never knew about Vicenza. You have shared beautiful photos as well. Your article has made me add this destination to my bucket list. I hope I will visit there soon.
Thank you Varsha, I’m glad you enjoyed it! Maybe I’ll see you around Vicenza one day!
I visited many of these sites when I studied abroad in Italy in 2005! Our program had mostly architect students in it so all of our university trips were to major architectural sites-I absolutely loved Vicenza and always remember it as one of my top few favorite small cities in Italy. I so prefer these cities to the big touristy crowded cities-you can just wander and enjoy the beauty of the buildings and the countryside without overbooked hotels and crazy prices.:)
That’s great that you came to Vicenza to study! It’s a great city, and yes, with less tourists and overpriced hotels!
I think I would need at least two months in Italy to be satisfied that I have explored her lovely sights to my heart’s content. This after seeing nearly 25 of the ‘popular as well as lesser-seen towns of this country. I can never have enough of Italy, I guess. Its my favorite country 🙂
Aw I totally understand why! I really hope you can make it here one day, and stay for longer too!
I am a huge fan of architecture and this architecture trail is such a great idea to do especially in Italy, as there is so many amazing buildings. I can see why Palazzo Chiericati is one of Palladio’s greatest masterpieces, it is just wow wow wow!!!!!.
Italy’s that kind of country with many architectural gems. Hope you get to visit here one day and see Palazzo Chieicati for yourself!
I agree with you. Italy has such a rich history and culture that confining one’s visit to just Rome is unfair. I would also like to visit the lesser known architectural gems of Italy. I had not heard of Palladian architecture. Andrea Palladio must have left an indelible mark on Italy’s cityscape.
Yes, Palladian architecture is wonderful, and definitely left its impact on the city, and the country 🙂
Some of your pictures look stunning. I can imagine how beautiful it would have looked in person. I love exploring historic and olden places like these. And I have of Palladian architecture but did not know it was named after a person. So thanks to you, I have learnt one more thing today 🙂
Aw you’re welcome! I’m glad you enjoyed reading my post and learned something new 🙂
HI Lisa – Stunning photos you’ve got here! Italy is full of magic and breathtaking architectural pieces that its no surprise to find such jewels in Vicenza 🙂 I’ve never been (yet) but I would love to visit it! Simply amazing. – Ella
Thank you! There are many beautiful places and architectural statues here, hope you make it to Vicenza soon x
Italy is such a beautiful country and I love exploring all the gorgeous architecture. You’re right that I never heard of Andrea Palladio and I had no idea one architect was responsible for so much of the work we admire. Now I want to go back and explore with fresh eyes!
You’ll really enjoy seeing the sights here; they’re a real treat for the senses 😀
We have been here few years ago and we are very happy you liked Vicenza, our Italy!! We know the place and our favorite is Teatro Olimpico 🙂
Nice to meet you! Glad you enjoyed my post, and yes, Teatro Olimpico is stunning!
Vicenza is a paradise for people who admire splendid architecture. Basilica Palladiana looks stunning and also it is interesting place to roam around. The circular roof of the theatre is really wonderful with illusion is worth watching.
You will love the architecture, especially if you enjoy seeing it! La Rotonda is stunning, and the features just timeless
Rome and Florence is generally always the first stop for first timers to Italy but getting into the smaller cities do result in just as nice architecture and history without the crowds. Vicenza looks like another of those gorgeous places to visit. I love that you did the post from the point of view of Andrea Palladio’s works. It gives such a neat perspective.
Thanks Heidi! I want to show a side of Vicenza that other travellers may not be familiar with. This is the beauty of travel, and blogging!
I’ve heard of Palladian architecture but I had no idea who it was named after and where it came from. Vicenza looks like a beautiful place. I wish that I had visited when I went to Venice.
It’s definitely not as known as Venice, but apart from the canals, I much prefer it! You won’t have to fight with tourists and overpriced services too!
Vicenza is so romantic and the architecture gives that vibe too. I love these beautiful buildings – I could imagine myself taking many photos of them. Palazzo Chiericati has to be my favorite of them all. It is so grand and beautiful!
Absolutely! It’s a stunning palazzo, and I hope you get to see it for yourself one day!
Among all the places that you have shared, the Teatro Olimpico is the one that really caught my fancy. It is huge as possibly what its name means. Those carvings on those are like human sized. And the ceiling is just – WOW. There are so many stories carved there. Thanks for that detailed version of the same.
You’re welcome! The theatre is stunning, both inside and out. Come and see it for yourself one day!
These are amazing pictures and undoubtedly italy has some amazing architecturals escapes. This Veneto looks really a gem. Thanks for sharing
Thank you! I appreciate you dropping by.
It is so interesting to find out details about Palladio. I have already heard of the architecture style, but I must confess that I have never had the curiosity to read more about it. I appreciate you giving so many details on each of the sights. It really makes you want to find out more 🙂 I would absolutely love to see Teatro Olimpico. I am sure it is filled with history and culture.
Teatro Olimpico is gorgeous, and my photos don’t do it enough justice! Do come to Vicenza and see the sights for yourself 🙂
Ok so confession- I haven’t heard of Vicenza but I am not surprised to hear of yet another smaller, not-so-popular city in Italy that has such amazing architecture. Tourists get to hear only of Rome, Venice and Florence but there are obviously smaller, hidden gems such as these! I love the Basilica Palladiana, how beautiful is it! I haven’t heard of Palladio but clearly, he was a skilled architect, eh?
He was one of the most influential architects of all time 🙂 But don’t worry, I didn’t know that either! So happy you enjoyed this; it’s a lovely city with plenty of history.
Wow, these are beautiful photos. I haven’t spent much time in Italy as an adult – just a quick trip to Venice – and somehow am not keen on the busy-ness of Rome etc so these smaller, less famous towns are very appealing. I will note these down to add to my visit list some day.
I’m very happy to read this! Yes, Rome and Florence are stunning, but these smaller cities are more local and less touristy! Hope you get to visit one day.
Imagine my surprise when I opened thi post… and discovered it is about my city! Yes, Vicenza is beautiful, thanks to Palladio and other architects and artists who shaped it. It’s a small and unknown city, but it really is a gem in Veneto, and everyone should pay a visit to it when travelling to Venice or Verona. My favourite momument amomg the ones you described is Teatro Olimpico, I visited it many times in my life but it always amazes me!
Thank you for this article, I’m glad you liked my city! I should really write something about it sooner or later!
Ah Guilia, I’m so happy you enjoyed it! I love Vicenza, and it makes me happy to show it to others through my blog!
Vicenza looks stunning, I really need to get out to Italy, and soon 😀 – Well, at least now when I do go I’ll be armed with knowing who Andrea Palladio is, I had no idea who he was or that he was so influential in Italian architecture.
You must! It’s a lovely city, and with so much to see, do and eat here 😀
I knew Italy is a country full of beautiful architecture but I never thought they are everywhere! I have never hearf of Palladio before but shame of me not paying much attention while in Italy because I am sure his name must have come across sometimes! Thanks for the beautifil pictures of some of Vinzenca’s buildings and a very interesting post!
Thank you! Vicenza’s a beautiful and quite underrated city. I’m glad you enjoyed it and learned something about Palladio!
Wow the Tetro Olumpico is so stunning. Italy is full of gems and beautiful architecture and it’s good to put a finger on a few names and learn about the most popular ones! Would love to go and check it all out!
It’s a truly stunning building! Hope you get to see it for yourself one day!