We have 3 or 4 nights to stay and explore between our 3 nights in Venice and 3 nights near Milan. We'd love to slow the pace down, immerse ourselves in just enjoying the people, food and sights for those days. Any good recommendations? Have thought about Verona or Padova but both still seem too large for what we are looking for. We plan on travelling by train, but could also rent a car.
Posted by
New York, NY, USA
11294 posts
Padova is great for what you seek, as locals outnumber tourists (not true in central Verona at midday). It's a very pleasant town as well, with a huge market to browse in (and again, unlike in Bologna, the market has not yet become a pilgrimage for large numbers of foodie tourists).
I'm not sure how direct the trains are from Cremona or Mantova to Venice and Milan, but these are also nice towns. A slight detour from the direct Venice to Milan route is Ferrara, which is also very nice.
If you really want a small village, none of these will do. Personally, for 3 days I'd want something bigger than a village, particularly without a car, but you know your own preferences better than I do.
Posted by
Northamptonshire, England
32805 posts
Vicenza. Look it up.
Posted by
Boston, MA
1829 posts
Bassano del Grappa is said to be a lovely town that I think would suit your needs.
Posted by
Pacific Northwest
2625 posts
Verona is not too large at all and can keep you busy for 3 days. It's walkable, charming, on a river, with great public squares and lively markets that sell an endless variety of items. There's quite a few sites there as well for when you're done strolling and people-watching.
Posted by
Seattle, WA
16330 posts
There is also Lago di Garda to consider. Small towns near the north end, such as Malcescine, are well worth a three-night visit, especially if you love the outdoors. A great place to slow down. Just be aware that many of the visitors are German adventure-seekers---it may not feel all that "Italian."
We spent a night in Bassano del Grappa a few years back and really enjoyed it, especially the dinner we had at a place recommended by our hotel---€39 for a tasty 3-course dinner for two including wine---that would never happen in Venice! But I am not sure what we would have done with more time there.
As we drove past the hill town town of Asolo I wondered what it would be like to spend some time there. Might be worth looking into if you like small places.
Posted by
Toledo, Ohio, US
11613 posts
There are lots of smaller towns. With a car, you could visit the Colli Euganei, and stay in an agriturismo. Or, towns like Este or Castelfranco Veneto.