In 12 months, we racked up a list of favorite experiences which I hope will jump start your exploration as a new arrival in a spot with Roman origins and influenced by the Venetian Golden Age. (siculodoc (Adobe Stock))
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My husband and I had the good fortune to live in Vicenza for a year and experience “the best of” as quasi-locals. In 12 months, we racked up a list of favorite experiences which I hope will jump start your exploration as a new arrival in a spot with Roman origins and influenced by the Venetian Golden Age.
Piazza Signori is an ideal place to begin your exploration of Vicenza. It’s the town’s historic center. Like Venice’s Piazza San Marco, the majestic columns of the Lion of Saint Mark and the Redeemer dominate. The basilica designed by local son, Andrea Palladio, is the highlight of the square.
Piazza Signori is an ideal place to begin your exploration of Vicenza. (Kate Leahy Voigts)
In December, the city leaders treat visitors to a laser light illumination which makes an evening stroll through the pop-up Christmas market all the more memorable. If the kids need a snack, La Piadineria offers french fries served piping hot from the fryer.
From Piazza Signori it’s one block to Corso Palladio. Locals and tourists come here to indulge in a coffee or aperitivo. You won’t be rushed away from your table. When you’re ready to move on, step inside to pay your bill.
For fans of savory cuisine, Vicenza boasts numerous quality Indian restaurants. My favorite is on Corso Padova, a 15-minute stroll from Corso Paladio.
Monte Berico dominates the skyline. You can walk or drive to visit Santa Maria di Monte Berico (built in1428). The catalyst for the construction were the apparitions of a peasant woman who promised the Virgin Mary would end a devastating plague if a church was constructed here. Across the street, you’ll find a shop with unique cards, jewelry and quality replica icons.
Al Pellegrino restaurant also sits across from the church. It offers cafeteria style food and drinks you can enjoy inside or out. The expansive terrace boasts panoramic views of the city and the Dolomiti piccolo. Their sit-down restaurant offers an expansive menu and great service.
The expansive terrace boasts panoramic views of the city and the Dolomiti piccolo. (Kate Leahy Voigts)
On your way up the hill, you’ll pass arcades and walkways leading to the Santuario. For the past seven years, American soldiers and military family members have joined local organizations to clean and paint the walkway in advance of the annual pilgrimage to the church which draws thousands of visitors.
There are multiple options for getting to Monte Berico. Drive to the free parking lot across from the church. If full there’s plenty of street parking along Viale Dieci Giugno. Don’t forget to set your parking brake!
Another option is ascending the staircase originating across from the EUROSPAR at the intersection of Ettore Gallo and Borgo Berga. For fewer stairs and a relaxed climb, head up the road just off the bike path at Via Giambattista Tiepolo in the direction of the Valmarana Villa. If you go this route, take a small detour and see the dwarf statues poised on the villa’s high walls. There’s a story here the kids will love!
If you enjoy cycling under your own power or via e-bike, Vicenza offers the Riviera Berica Cycle Path. This 36-kilometer paved path runs between Vicenza and Noventa Vicentina. It is popular with bikers, walkers and runners as it’s both flat and scenic. Enjoy your exploration of the “City of Gold.”
Enjoy your exploration of the “City of Gold.” (Kate Leahy Voigts)
Kate resides in the Aviano military community. She’s written numerous travel articles for Stars and Stripes, and recently authored a pocket travel guide, “Visiting Venice Hemingway’s Way.”
Editor’s Note: This article was written by a member of the local military community, not an employee of Stars and Stripes. Neither the organization nor the content is being represented by Stars and Stripes or the Department of War.
