Vicenza Private Historic Walking Tour

Get immersed in the enchanting world of Renaissance architecture in Vicenza, a UNESCO World Heritage Ensemble characterized by a vibrant culture of which you can have a feel at the atmospheric Lords' Square, the rich history etching the Castle Portal- the remains of the 14th-century city walls, Bissara Tower - one of the tallest medieval bell towers in Italy, and the mysterious Tower of Torment from the 12th century, as well as numerous architectural gems left by Andrea Palladio, one of the world’s most influential architects who resided in Vicenza most of his life, including Olympic Theatre - the first permanent indoor theatre in Europe and the most emblematic icon of the city, Palladian Basilica.

1. 1

   Torre Bissara

   10 min

   The tour starts at the western entrance of the Old Town, the 12th-century Castle Tower. Walking through the gate at the foot of the crenelated tower gives you an idea of how incredibly thick the 14th-century defensive city walls of Vicenza would be.

2. 2

   Villa La Rotonda by Andrea Palladio - World Heritage Site

   15 min

   The portal opens to the charming street of Andrea Palladio Course, named after the Renaissance architect Andrea Palladio, one of the world’s most influential architects who left behind the UNESCO ensemble of "City of Vicenza and the Palladian Villas of the Veneto". Elegant boutiques nestling under antique porticoes alternating with medieval buildings elevate window shopping on the street to an art and a journey through time.

3. 3

   Stop 3

   20 min

   At its eastern end stands the 16th-century Chiericati Palace, an early milestone in Palladio’s career which boasts a magnificent loggia which, together with those of his other works, gave the architect a well-established trademark.

4. 4

   Stop 4

   Pass by

   Proceed to marvel at the Olympic Theatre nearby, the first permanent indoor theatre in Europe, and its beautiful landscaped garden. The final work by Palladio is now one of the only three Renaissance theatres in Italy.

5. 5

   Piazza Dei Signori

   10 min

   The next destination of the tour is Lords' Square. The atmospheric square home to the most emblematic historic monuments of the city is the favorite hangout for tourists and locals alike with numerous delightful cafés and restaurants dotted around.

6. 6

   Stop 6

   20 min

   The highlight of all is Palladio Basilica, dominating the charming square with its magnificent loggia in the characteristic “Palladian window” style. The striking Renaissance building was the seat of government despite its name which actually came from Palladio’s idea of remodeling the originally Gothic palace on a Roman basilica.

7. 7

   Torre Bissara

   15 min

   Right next to the white palace is Bissara Tower, one of the tallest bell towers in Italy. For centuries, the 12th-century clock on the table has read time for the whole city with its lovely melody.

8. 8

   Stop 8

   15 min

   Across the square stands another great work of Palladio, Loggia of the Captain. The exquisite carvings that celebrate the victory of Venice in the Battle of Lepanto on the façade of the striking reddish structure make it stand out beside the opposite white palace and offer a testimony to the indelible influence of the Venetian Republic in Vicenza in the Middle Ages.

9. 9

   Stop 9

   15 min

   Finally, go round to the back of the basilica where the 12th-century Tower of Torment hides. Once serving as a barbaric prison surrounded by a moat, the historic monument provides you with not only a glimpse into the turbulent medieval history of Vicenza but also a chance to take a break at lovely cozy eateries nestling at its foot.

• Wheelchair accessible
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.