The city of Treviso is a delightful enclave of atmospheric piazzas, meandering cobblestone streets and centuries-old monuments. Billed as the città cortese (courteous city), a hospitable and intimate feel permeates the air. Treviso is the capital of the Province of Treviso, which forms part of Italy’s Veneto region.
Treviso’s beating heart is its old town, a district encircled by ramparts and lazy rivers. It’s an ideal place to stroll freely on zigzagging lanes, where tranquil canals pass beneath bridges and Venetian-style houses. Admire elegant arcades and medieval landmarks such as the Loggia dei Cavalieri, a former meeting place of knights and noblemen. Wander around the Roman-era city walls to the ancient towers, Porta Altinia, Porta San Tomaso and Porta Santi Quaranta.
Treviso’s squares are typically Italian, with grand palaces doubling-up as boutiques, pavement cafés and trattorias. Piazza dei Signori marks the center of the old town and is watched over by the Palazzo dei Trecento. Piazza Monte di Pietà, Piazza San Vito, Piazza Rinaldi and Piazzetta della Torre are great for watching the world go by.
Find architectural masterpieces at the turn of every corner, including the frescoed Cathedral of Treviso, Church of San Nicolo and Chiesa di San Francesco. See artifacts from the Copper Age to Iron Age and canvases from the 15th to 17th centuries at the Luigi Bailo Civic Museum. Admire paintings by Tommaso da Modena and Lorenzo Lotto at the Santa Caterina Museum.
Enjoy a walk along the Restera, a snaking riverside pathway between Treviso and Casier. Peek inside monasteries and villas, have lunch at old taverns or rent a kayak and paddle down the calm River Sile.
Beyond the city, fields of radicchio spread as far as the eye can see. This red lettuce is a staple in local pasta and risotto dishes. Try these dishes accompanied with a glass of prosecco vinified at provincial bodegas.
Flights from major European cities fly regularly to Treviso Airport or you can visit on a daytrip from Venice. Once here, all you need are two able feet or two wheels to discover the city’s beguiling charm.