Veneto

Discover Veneto — Private Tours, Experiences & Custom Travel

Overview

The Veneto region in Italy is one of the most remarkable and romatic regions. It offers visitors a journey through the land of Palladio, Giorgione and Titian, through enchanting mountains and vine carpeted valleys, to some of Italy's most romantic cities.

A land of rolling hills, rivers, lakes and impressive architecture; Veneto is a stunning region in Italy’s north east. Extending from the UNESCO World Heritage listed Dolomites mountain range to the Adriatic Sea, it is rich in character and natural beauty.

To the west, Lago di Garda (Lake Garda) separates Veneto from the Lombardy region. At 370 square kilometres – measuring 54 kilometres long and from three to 18 kilometres wide – it is Italy’s largest lake. This majestical lake is fed by the Sarca River at the northern end and the Po River at the southern end. In Verona the lake is surrounded by beautiful little towns including Peschiera del Garda which features a gate into the town, and Torri del Benaco which is home to a picturesque castle rising up above the lake.

Verona is situated to the east of Lake Garda and famous throughout the world for being the home of Shakespeare’s tragic story of two star-crossed lovers, Romeo and Juliet. Each year, thousands of tourists flock to the 14th century Casa di Giulietta (Juliet’s house) to see the balcony where, according to legend, Romeo and Juliet are believed to have exchanged their words of love.

Aside from its links to this ill-fated love story, Verona has countless other attractions including historic castles and villas, and many impressive gardens.

The Roman Amphitheatre can be found in one of Verona’s largest squares, Piazza Brà. Constructed in the first century AD, it is the third largest remaining amphitheatre in Italy. During the summer months it plays host to many shows and concerts including renowned opera performances. Numerous bars and cafés can also be found in Piazza Brà.

In the northernmost part of Verona lies Lessinia, an area characterised by its natural beauties. This wide highland is scattered with rare plant species, picturesque towns with stone-roofed houses, forests, grasslands, vineyards, olive groves and rare fossils. The Regional Nature Reserve of Lessinia was established in 1990 to help protect the area’s natural and historical charm, and to allow tourists to easily explore Lessinia by foot or bicycle. Also in Lessinia, overlooking Lake Garda, is Mount Baldo. It is widely regarded as the garden of Europe for its rich flora and fauna and can be explored via the modern panoramic cableway, complete with rotating cabins.

Valpolicella is Verona’s viticulture capital, producing the renowned DOC wines Amarone (a dry red made from dried grapes) and Recioto (a sweet red variety). There are several winery tours available in Valpolicella, with many of these also taking in much of the area’s history and scenery.

In addition, one of Italy’s most spectacular Renaissance gardens is found in Verona. Situated across from the Adige River, Giardino Giusti features perfectly manicured hedges, fountains, grottos, cypresses, a small maze and most of its original features. Count Agostino Giusti designed the garden in the 1570s and it became open to the public in 1591. According to legend, lovers able to find each other in the garden’s maze are destined to stay together for the rest of their lives.

The Rovigo, Padua and Vicenza provinces are adjacent to Verona and can all be accessed via train or car.

Travelling to Veneto’s far south, we arrive at Rovigo in the Po Valley. The province is crossed by both the Po and Adige rivers, and features a network of canals and ancient towers. Amongst its key landmarks is a pair of leaning towers – Torre Donà, which is one of the tallest medieval towers in Italy, and Torre Mozza. Other attractions include Palazzo dell’Accademia dei Concordi which houses a library and art gallery, Palazzo Roverella, Palazzo Roncale and the Cathedral of Rovigo.

Above Rovigo is the Padua province, best known for its ancient 800 year old university and its natural thermal springs which are among the largest and most famous in Europe.

Renowned for their healing properties, Padua’s thermal baths and mud treatments have been enjoyed for many centuries. The towns Abano Terme and Montegrotto Terme are home to some of the most important thermal spas in Padua – and Italy.

Rich volcanic mud in Abano Terme and Montegrotto Terme is derived from pure mineral-rich volcanic ash, and is said to be beneficial to the skin. It is applied using a combination of heat and water therapies and believed to assist with conditions that include joint pain, muscle strain, arthritis, fractures, rheumatism, osteoporosis, gout and respiratory illness.

Hot springs in these towns can reach temperatures of up to 80°C. Many hotels feature indoor and outdoor thermal swimming pools with temperatures that hover between 30°C to 35°C.

Padua is also home to Prato della Valle. At 90,000 square metres, it is the largest square in Italy.

In Vicenza, there is an abundance of rivers, mountains and valleys combined with countless Venetian villas dating from the 16th to 18th centuries. The Altopiano di Asiago plateau in Vicenza’s north features seven communes and is characterised by enchanting forests, alpine meadows and rivers. During summer the colours of nature are mesmerising, while in winter, the area is covered by white snow.

Below Altopiano di Asiago, on the Brenta River, is the medieval town Bassano del Grappa – named after nearby mountain Monte Grappa. Its main landmark is the Alpini Bridge which is a symbol of the town. Designed by Andrea Palladio in 1569, the wooden bridge has been rebuilt several times based on its original design, including after it was almost destroyed during World War II. Two 16th century arches are at the entrance and the bridge offers great views of the town. A museum at the end of the bridge, Museo degli Alpini honours Italy’s alpine troops, with archeological artifacts, paintings and photos. Bassano del Grappa is also well known for its grappa production, a clear Italian alcoholic spirit, and its history in producing colourful ceramics.

Treviso is located to Vicenza’s east, and despite having a few similar characteristics to Venice, it has its own unique charm – with canals, rolling green hills, vineyards and olive groves aplenty. World War I and World War II left their mark on the province, however many of the buildings and affected areas have been rebuilt and restored.

City walls almost four kilometres long were built for defense during the 16th century around Treviso’s historical centre – and today, these walls still remain very much intact. Two white stone monumental gates can be found on the walls. The town is also surrounded by waterways, resulting in Treviso being affectionately known as the città d’acque (city of water).

And finally, to the north of the Veneto region is the province of Belluno, which is surrounded by the Dolomites. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2009, the Dolomites is a mountain range in the northern Italian Alps with 18 peaks that soar to over 3000 metres. Here, there are beautiful mountain landscapes, large valleys, rocky peaks and sheer cliffs. Lakes, rivers and enticing waterfalls are also key features.

Contrasting this beautiful natural wonder is some impressive architecture including the Porta Rugo gates in Belluno’s ancient walls, the Cathedral of Belluno and the Andraz Castle that rises above a hill.

Veneto is a region rich in history – with each of its provinces showcasing their own unique character and flavour. Here, an abundance of natural wonders come together to offer an explosion of beauty. Lakes, rivers, canals, thermal baths and mountains are some of Veneto’s most important and loved features. Historical buildings and monuments can be found far and wide. It’s no secret that Venice is full of splendour, but travel just a little further and you may just discover a whole new world of surprises.

Until recently, when one thought of Veneto, one thought immediately, if not almost exclusively, of Venice, partly due to the fact that, for over eleven hundred years, Veneto was an integral part of the Serenissima's territory. Today, Veneto has established its own distinct identity and offers hospitality to numerous visitors eager to explore the many treasures of the region; from the majestic Dolomiti Mountains over which Cortina d'Ampezzo reigns supreme, to the elegant Palladian villas of Vicenza. Then there is Verona, the city of Romeo and Juliet, and home to the imposing Arena, where both important classical concerts and modern music events are performed. Veneto also boasts other splendid cities such as Treviso, Padova, Chioggia, as well as the magnificent Po delta.

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Venice, Italy Canale Grande

Absolute Italy from Venice to the Amalfi Coast including Florence, Tuscany, Rome, Vatican City, Pompeii and Capri

This tour is a once-in-a-lifetime experience in Italy that starts in Venice and ends on the stunning Amalfi Coast. The tour has an array of highlights, including visits to the islands in the Venetian Lagoon, art galleries in Florence, a private tour...

Semi-Private

11 Days / 10 Nights

STARTING FROM

€4,500 per person

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Venice Weekend for Lovers

Venice for Lovers is a tour that we offer that includes everything you need in Venice. A truly Romantic experience in one of the most romantic cities in the world. It features all the transportation you will need in Venice, a private Gondola ride in...

Private

3 Days / 2 Nights

STARTING FROM

€780 per person

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Let's Travel and Cruise Exclusive for Women by Women: Rome - Amalfi Coast - Tuscan Spas - Italian Riviera - Lake Como to Venice May 23 - June 5, 2024

This is a unique adventure through Italy put together for women by women where we will be focusing on the regional cuisine and wines of Italy as well as the natural thermal springs. Over the course of 2 weeks we will experience Rome, Vatican City, t...

Private

14 Days / 13 Nights

PRICING

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Peaks, Palaces & Prosecco: A Grand Tour of Northern Italy including Venice, the Dolomites, Verona, Milan & More!

Embark on an unforgettable 11-day journey through Italyâ€™s most iconic destinations, beginning with a private...

Private

11 Days / 10 Nights

PRICING

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The Fine Wines of Lake Garda and the Veneto

A 5 day trip to discover the finest wines, historic villas and picturesque landscapes of the Veneto region.

Semi-Private

5 Days / 4 Nights

PRICING

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Private Winter Tour with your Own Driver & Private Guides: Venice, Milan and Italy's Magnificent Lake District

This is a unique package that we offer for couples or groups of friends who want to experience the very best of Venice, Milan and Italy's unique Lake District - including the towns of Bellagio, Como and some of the famous gardens which surround the l...

Private

8 Days / 7 Nights

PRICING

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Northern Italy including Lake Garda, Verona, Bologna & Venice Harvest 2024

Join us to experience the Fine Food. Fast Cars and the incredible scenery of Lake Garda this fall, during harvest time in northern Italy OCT 14-23, 2024/. This is going to be an intimate group experiene where we will be staying in beautiful, centrall...

Private

10 Days / 9 Nights

STARTING FROM

€4,999 per person

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Munich to Venice Bike Expedition

Embark on an exhilarating journey with the Munich to Venice Bike Expedition. Starting from the vibrant Bavarian capital of Munich...

Private

9 Days / 8 Nights

PRICING

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Italy is one of the world's most romantic destinations - from historic cities to stunning nature, every day you will build beautiful new memories together that will last a lifetime. Whether you are looking for a honeymoon, wedding anniversary or a ve...

Private

11 Days / 10 Nights

PRICING

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Exclusive & Private: Rome, Florence & Venice

This is an exclusive tour of Italy's Art Capitals including Rome, Florence and Venice. We include the finest accommodations, private tours, private transfers and first class rail. Top guides, VIP tickets and the very best guides throughout the progra...

Private

8 Days / 7 Nights

STARTING FROM

€1,700 per person

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Italian Winter Wonderland: A Christmas Journey Through Northern Italy

Experience the magic of Italy this holiday season with a luxurious 12-day private tour through its most iconic cities. From the fashion hub of Milan to the romantic canals of Venice, you'll explore festive Christmas markets, enjoy guided tours of his...

Private

12 Days / 11 Nights

PRICING

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The Artisans of Venice

Venice has a long tradition of exquisite crafts, which are most commonly seen today during the Venice Carnival. Yet all year round artists are working hard to produce the famous masks, the fabulous materials and costumes visitors will wear and the g...

Private

3 Hours

PRICING

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Carnival Mask Making and Dinner in Venice with Local Hosts

Your instructor will explain the ancient technique of making a Venetian papier-mÃ¢chÃ© mask providing information about the use of masks in Venice during past centuries..

Private

3 Hours

STARTING FROM

€75 per person

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Join us on an amazing tour of Venice's beautiful natural lagoon, which is filled with diverse flora, fauna, and fascinating historical landmarks. This tour will take you away from the bustling crowds of Venice and allow you to experience the serene b...

Private

5.5 Hours

STARTING FROM

€510 per person

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Veneto: Vineyards & The Medieval Towns of the Veneto

Private

8 Hours

STARTING FROM

€120 per person

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Venice in a Day Shore Excursion

The highlights of Venice in one day. Explore the city by boat and on foot, tour the Doge's Palace and St. Mark's Basilica, and return to your cruise ship by private transfer.

Private

7 Hours

PRICING

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Learn to be a Gondolier

Learn the ancient skill of the gondolier, that Venetians have been using to move round their city for generations.

Private

1.5 Hours

PRICING

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Venice off the Beaten Path

Escape the crowds and discover the hidden beauty and fascinating history of Venice, one of the world's most mesmerizing cities.

Private

PRICING

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Private Bacari Walking Tour

Wherever you are staying in Venice, a tour of the local bacari with a Venetian guide, will make you feel right at home, teach you something about life in the city and give you the chance to taste some delicious Veneto wines as the locals do.

Private

2 Hours

STARTING FROM

€120 per person

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Private Guided Valpolicella E-Bike Tour with Lunch at the Winery

Escape the hustle of the city and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Veronaâ€™s countryside on this exclusive 6-hour private e-bike tour...

Semi-Private

6 Hours

PRICING

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Modern Venetian Gastronomy

Lunch with an up-and-coming Venetian â€œslow foodâ€ chef where they can have either a selection of raw and/or cooked fish and seafood or cured meats and cheeses. They carry boutique wines and make their own beer and breads in house. A guide will...

Private

2 Hours

STARTING FROM

€140 per person

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Private Day Trip to the Dolomites

A day trip from Venice to discover Italy's most beautiful mountains.

Private

8 Hours

PRICING

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Private Venice Cicchetti and Prosecco Wine Tour

This is a privately guided tour of Venice which focuses on some of the typical culinary products and traditions of the Veneto area. Included in the tour are several different samplings of wines including Prosecco and Cicchetti as well as several oth...

Semi-Private

STARTING FROM

€220 per person

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The Venetian Islands including Murano Glass Blowing Demonstration

This is a beautiful half-day tour of the Venetian lagoon and some of the most colourful islands in Italy! It's incredible value for money and offers visitors to Venice a chance to get away from the crowds and experience authentic Venice. On this tou...

Small Group

2.5 Hours

★ ★ ★ ★

Hotel Ruzzini Palace is housed within an ancient historical residence that once belonged to one of t...

6 Beds 5 Baths 9

Air Conditioning +15 more

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The Most Serene and Magical City in Italy

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Private Transfer Routes in Veneto

Seamless connections between key destinations across the region

Venice Verona

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Venice Padua

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Venice Milan

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Venice Florence

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Stories That Stay With You

Here's what our guests share about their unforgettable journeys

“Jesse & Giuseppe, Sandy and I have been looking through my slides of our trip to Southern Italy. We had such a good time with you and Giuseppe that we wanted to let you know again. You were the best guides ever.”

[Read More] Bob & Sandy

“In September of 2018 I brought a group of 12 from Venice to Sicily and organized all of my services with the Italy Vacation Specialists. Being a travel agent and in the business, I know how complicated organizing travel arrangements can be in Italy and the IVS team took a huge burden off of me! I would like to start of by saying "THANK YO”

[Read More] Ann Brownell, KHM Travel Group

“We're home now from the most amazing trip to Italy! I can't thank you enough for your efforts and coordination of what was without question the finest vacations I've been on to date.”

[Read More] Carol Carson

“I am a travel agent from Lebanon and have organized several group tours as well as individual tours of Italy with Italy Vacation Specialists. I highly recommend them as one of the very best tour operators in Italy to work with, given their professionalism and work ethic which I feel is second-to-none in the travel industry. All of the sta”

[Read More] Nicole Haddad, Lebanese Travel Agent

“I am a travel agent with All About Honeymoons and I would highly recommend Italy Vacation Specialists. Jessica was wonderful in helping us plan in a last minute anniversary vacation during high season without any issues. She even checked on our clients while on vacation to make sure things were going well. I plan on using them again soon ”

[Read More] Tammy Joyce, All About Honeymoons

“I traveled with JoAnn West through your services, guided by Giuseppe, in July of this year. What a wonderful experience; your service is really top notch! If I return to Italy for a tour, I will absolutely use your services again and recommend you to my friends!”

[Read More] Lucretia Brower

“Dear Guiseppe and Jesse, We just returned from our most wonderful vacation to Italy and wanted to first thank you for putting together such a wonderful trip, and second to provide some feedback for the future. Hotels 1. Hotel Sovestro in San Gimignano was wonderful. The staff were very friendly and helpful and made the first portion of ou”

[Read More] Ron and Deb Crosby

“In August 2018, my family of four and myself travelled from Vancouver, BC to Rome Italy and spent 3 weeks touring Italy with IVS. This company had come highly recommended by many friends and associates of ours who had used them before and indeed to say they do an outstanding job is an understatement. You can tell while being in Italy that”

[Read More] Vijaya Sunil CPA, CGA

“Jesse, There are no words to describe the fabulous time we had in Italy. Everything went as you promised. Absolutely no problems! The venues were fabulous. The guides were punctual and helpful. It couldn't have worked out better. You and your staff deserve high praise for the quality and efficiency of your work. BTW, Guiseppe was an absol”

[Read More] Jo Ann West

“The trip was great; we appreciate all the hard work you and your team invested to make our experience a once in a lifetime trip. We appreciate all the attention to the details, in particular Giuseppe spending the time and the focus with us on the road and as we were exploring your great country.”

[Read More] Leon and Michele