Treviso, Verona & Venice

The day began with a peaceful walking tour of Treviso, affectionately known as the “Venice on the Mainland.” As we wandered its quiet streets, we admired gothic-style windows, delicate marble latticework, and the gentle flow of the Sile and Botteniga rivers—elements that echoed the elegance of its island cousin, Venice.

Following the guided tour, we had time to explore Treviso at our own pace. I browsed through the lively weekly market full of colorful vegetables and housewares, then wandered along the Canale dei Buranelli. Nearby, the centuries-old pescheria—Treviso’s fish market—offered a vivid glimpse of local life. For lunch, I sampled radicchio trevigiano, a local seasonal specialty: grilled red chicory, rich with extra virgin olive oil and full of autumnal flavor.

In the afternoon, we boarded the coach and set off for Venice, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Upon arrival, we left the roads behind and traveled by boat to the nearby island of Murano. Renowned for its 1,500-year-old glassmaking tradition, Murano revealed its magic through a live demonstration by a local craftsperson. Watching molten glass transform into delicate art was a mesmerizing experience.

From Murano, we continued by boat to the heart of Venice near St. Mark’s Square. There, we took in the stunning architecture of St. Mark’s Basilica and the ornate Gothic façade of the Doge’s Palace. During our free time, some opted for a classic gondola ride—an iconic Venetian experience that glides you through the city’s labyrinth of canals.

Later, we returned to the mainland and continued on to Verona, the romantic city of Romeo and Juliet. Upon arrival, we had a choice: join a guided tour through Verona’s frescoed Old Town or enjoy a leisurely riverside stroll in search of its bridges and hidden monuments. Either way, highlights like Juliet’s balcony and the majestic Roman Arena were not to be missed.

After some free time to explore and enjoy lunch in the city, we headed back to the hotel in the late afternoon to relax. The evening concluded with a delightful dinner at a local restaurant—a fitting end to a day rich in history, artistry, and romance.