Most of the tours I'm seeing to the Palladian Villas cost over $100. Is there a way I can do this independently and inexpensively?
Diane>

they are located scattered around so going by public transit is out - maybe a car rental would be cheaper for a day?

ellenem I liked that Bardini gardens too, much more than the Boboli, which are sadly in need of some TLC.

Did you see the rose gardens? They are lovely too, this time of year.

ah gardens - Lake Garda makes an easy day trip to by train - to Pescheria del Garda and take a boat all round the lake - to the lemon growing areas at its northern end - some nice gardens along the lake and Sirmione is a Bellagio with remarkable Roman ruins set overlooking the lake. An easy day trip from Venice. Get a boat pass for a day and enjoy!

I think the local bus goes down most of the canal.

or E70 http://www.italyheaven.co.uk/veneto/brenta.html

You could hire a bike as one side of the canal is always very quiet.

http://www.italiaoutdoors.com/index....s-brenta-canal

http://www.rentalbikeitaly.com/2012/...ngs-to-do.html

I have biked down that road along the canal - sweet!

Me too P, very pleasant

Try googling burchiello. A half day cruise from Venice to Oriago costing 55 euro includes the Villa Malcontenta (the best one in my opinion) and is very enjoyable. It's worth signing up for lunch too.