Making the Most of Your Time

Lined up in a row west of Venice are Padua, Vicenza, and Verona—three prosperous small cities that are each worth at least a day on a trip out of Venice. Verona has the greatest charm, and it's probably the best choice if you’re going to visit only one of these cities, even though it also draws the biggest crowds of tourists.

East of Venice, the region of Friuli–Venezia Giulia is off the main tourist circuit, but you may be drawn by its caves and castles, its battle-worn hills, and its mix of Italian and Central European culture. The port city of Trieste, famous for its elegant cafés, has quiet character that some people find dull and others find alluring.