9 Day Tastes of Northern Italy

Padua & Venice Stay & Explore – Veneto & Venetian Riviera (9 Days)

Padua • Venice • Verona • Treviso • Prosecco • Bologna • Villa Pisani

Experience the heart of northern Italy while staying in one central location. This Stay & Explore itinerary offers immersive cultural encounters, iconic landmarks, and the freedom to create your own adventure—all from the historic city of Padua.

DAY 1 – Tuesday: Depart for Italy

Board your flight to Venice and prepare for a journey into the art, architecture, and culinary delights of northern Italy.

DAY 2 – Wednesday: Arrive in Venice & Transfer to Padua

Arrive in Venice and travel to your hotel in Padua, a city with roots dating back to 12th century BC. Spend the afternoon at leisure before your welcome reception and orientation meeting with your Tour Manager at 6 PM.

Overnight: Padua

DAY 3 – Thursday: Padua Walking Tour

Explore Padua on foot, starting with the monumental Prato della Valle, one of Europe’s largest squares. Visit the Basilica of Saint Anthony Basilica, a stunning fusion of Romanesque and Byzantine architecture. Wander medieval streets, visit Piazza dei Signori and the historic marketplace Piazza della Frutta e delle Erbe. Admire the 13th-century Palazzo della Ragione, Palazzo del Comune, and Loggia del Consiglio. Afternoon at leisure with optional exploration of the Jewish Ghetto.

Overnight: Padua
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 4 – Friday: Excursion to Verona

Travel west to Verona, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous as the setting of Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet. Tour the historic center, including Roman ruins, medieval palaces, and Renaissance architecture. Sample local culinary delights such as risotto all’Amarone with regional wine. Return to Padua in the evening.

Overnight: Padua
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 5 – Saturday: Leisure Day in Padua or Optional Treviso & Prosecco

Spend the day exploring Padua at your own pace, or join the optional full-day excursion to Treviso. Stroll charming streets and canals, admire Palazzo dei Trecento, and continue to the Prosecco countryside. Visit a winery, learn about sparkling wine production, and enjoy a tasting in the heart of Prosecco country. Return to Padua by afternoon.

Optional: Treviso & Prosecco Tour
Overnight: Padua
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 6 – Sunday: Venice Day Trip – Murano & Venice Walking Tour

Take the train to Venice. Begin with a boat ride to Murano, known worldwide for its colorful glass art. Visit a local factory to see artisans at work. Continue with a walking tour of Venice’s main island, including St. Mark’s Square, the pink marble Doge’s Palace, and the golden Basilica di San Marco. Afternoon at leisure or join the optional Gondola Ride for a unique perspective of Venice’s waterways. Return to Padua by train.

Optional: Gondola Ride (PM)
Overnight: Padua
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 7 – Monday: Leisure Day in Padua or Optional Bologna Tour & Food Tasting

Enjoy a free day in Padua, or venture to Bologna, the gastronomic capital of Italy. Visit Piazza Maggiore, Accursio Palace, Neptune Fountain, St. Petronio Basilica, Archiginnasio Palace, and Santo Stefano Square. Explore the medieval food market Quadrilatero, learning about traditional Italian culinary heritage. Return to Padua in the late afternoon.

Optional: Bologna Tour & Food Tasting
Overnight: Padua
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 8 – Tuesday: Villa Pisani & Brenta Riviera

Travel along the scenic Brenta Riviera to Villa Pisani, a Venetian Baroque masterpiece. Tour its grand halls, frescoed ceilings by Giambattista Tiepolo, and opulent furniture. Spend the afternoon at leisure in Padua. Enjoy a farewell dinner with your Tour Manager to celebrate your journey through Veneto.

Overnight: Padua
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 9 – Wednesday: Depart Italy

Transfer to Venice Airport for your return flight, taking unforgettable memories of Venetian culture, art, and cuisine with you.

Meals: Breakfast

✨ Package Highlights

• Roundtrip flights: New York – Venice / Venice – New York (other departure cities available)

• 7 Nights in Padua (First Class)

• 8 Meals: 7 Breakfasts, 1 Dinner

• Modern Air-Conditioned Coach, English-Speaking Tour Manager & Local Guides

• Sightseeing with Entrance Fees Included

• Train Transfers: Padua–Venice–Padua

• Hotel Taxes, Porterage & Gratuities

• Wireless Audio Headsets for Enhanced Touring

🌟 Why Choose Padua & Venice Stay & Explore?

• Stay in one central location while exploring northern Italy’s top destinations

• Enjoy UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Venice, Verona, Padua

• Optional excursions to Treviso, Prosecco region, Bologna, Venice Gondola ride

• Experience authentic Italian cuisine and regional wines

• Perfect balance of guided touring and independent exploration