A labyrinth of canals framed by warm, pastel houses, and characterised by impossibly elegant architecture, Treviso is a city whose streets are as vibrant and bubbly as the prosecco it so famously produces.
Often overshadowed by the grandeur of neighbouring Venice, Treviso is a hidden gem at the heart of Italy’s Veneto region, little-known to many who pass through the country in search of the more well-trodden tourist trails.
But despite its compact centre, which stretches just 1.5km from the northern to the southern edges of the city walls, Treviso is brimming with culture, with much more to offer than meets the eye.
From its endless, rolling vineyards to its graceful stone porticoes, Treviso makes the perfect long-weekend destination for those who are looking to stray from the beaten path. Read on to discover the 10 best things to see and do in the city.
Go Shopping In Via Calmaggiore
Situated at the very heart of Treviso, Via Calmaggiore flows from the imposing cathedral to the striking Piazza dei Signori, connecting the two landmarks in a tunnel of cobblestone pavements and window-boxes overflowing with flowers.
This street is home to some of the city’s best shops, a mixture of independent boutiques and better-known Italian high street brands such as Kiko and Sephora.
Within the bright, spacious Piazza Indipendenza, you can also find the flagship United Colors of Benetton store: a world-famous clothing brand with its roots planted within this very city.
Walk Along The Mura Di Treviso
Surrounded on one side by lush greenery, and on the other by the distant hum of city life, Treviso’s walls come alive as the sun begins to set. Now topped by well-manicured gravel pathways and spatterings of shady trees, these walls date back to medieval times, reaching around the heart of the city.
Wander from the Bastione San Marco along to the Porta San Tomaso, and stop at the picturesque Bistrò sulle Mura for an Aperol Spritz, as you watch the sun sink beneath the rooftops.
If you’re looking for a local guide, you can also book a private group tour to take you on a 2 hour walk to see the best of Treviso!
Visit The Fish Market
Floating within the centre of the Cagnan river lies the city’s iconic fish market: a tiny island framed by stalls and vendors, which bursts into life in the mornings before closing quietly around lunchtime.
Here, you can find an extensive variety of locally-sourced fish and seafood, as well as a range of vegetables and fruits. Once you’ve purchased your wares, grab a coffee at one of the picturesque riverside tables of Acquasalsa.
Enjoy An Aperitivo In Piazza Dei Signori
Indubitably the city’s most iconic backdrop, the Piazza dei Signori is one of Treviso’s most awe-striking squares.
Rows of tables and chairs, each belonging to various bars and restaurants, are lined up under the looming shadow of the elegant prefettura, whilst other cafes and bars take shelter beneath the cool stone archways of the Palazzo di Trecento.
At any time of day, this square is guaranteed to be vibrant and lively, the smooth stonework of nearby buildings echoing the laughter and chatter of old friends long into the night. Settle here and enjoy an evening aperitivo.
Have Brunch At Malvasia
Arguably the best spot in the city for brunch, Malvasia is unique in both its setting and its quirky décor. Aptly located on the Ponte della Malvasia, this quiet corner of Treviso is dominated by gently-flowing canals and abstract artwork.
Malvasia’s outdoor terrace overhangs the water, shielded from the harsh summer sun by a series of plants and flowers. Inside, the colours are equally vivid, inspired by the love of nature which is so prominent within this part of Italy.
Order a stack of their delicious pancakes, accompanied by a classic cappuccino.
Browse An Art Gallery
Despite its compact size and inconspicuous alleyways, Treviso is home to a number of well-regarded art museums and galleries, which often host exhibitions and shows displaying the works of renowned artists from around the world.
Among these is the Museo Santa Caterina, which is housed within the walls of the Musei Civici. Here, you can find works of art which span centuries, ranging from medieval pieces to Renaissance portraits and more contemporary works. Entry to this museum costs only €6.
Find The Fontana Delle Tette
Tucked behind the crisp, luxurious boutiques of Via Calmaggiore lies one of the city’s most iconic features: the Fontana delle Tette.
Settled within a nondescript courtyard, which would otherwise go entirely unnoticed, the fountain is celebrated for its unusual form, in which the water trickles from a woman’s breasts.
The original stonework of this statue dates back to 1559 when the city was ruled under the Venetian Republic. For special occasions, the fountain is also filled with wine.
Have Dinner By The Water At Odeon Alla Colonna
With its unparalleled waterfront location and quirky-yet-sophisticated menu, Odeon alla Colonna is one of the city’s most coveted restaurants.
With tables nestled under the crumbling porticoes of the peach-coloured building which houses it, the restaurant’s beautiful, rustic terrace overlooks one of Treviso’s numerous water wheels, the rush of the river the perfect soundtrack to an evening spent enjoying copious glasses of local wine.
Pasta-lovers should make sure to sample the restaurant’s most famous dish: tagliatelle al caffè.
Take A Day Trip To Valdobbiadene or Castello di Roncade
Whilst Treviso itself is by no means lacking in beauty, the landscape which encircles it is even more breathtaking.
Sandwiched halfway between the sea and the mountains, Treviso’s surrounding nature is hard to beat; endless, swelling hills are blanketed by lush, green vines, the area famous for its production of prosecco.
Nestled within these vineyards, at the foot of the Dolomites, is the town of Valdobbiadene. Just a 45-minute drive from Treviso, this tiny collection of houses is best-known for its wineries.
Alternatively, you can also book a tour to go about 20 minutes east to go wine tasting at the beautiful Castello di Roncade, the only Venetian villa with medieval walls (and a complete wine cellar).
Spend a day treading through the vines, sampling some of the best tipples the area has to offer.
Lose Yourself Among The Canals
There is no better way to discover a city than to lose yourself within its narrow, shaded streets; with canals weaving their way slowly through the city’s alleys and piazzas, Treviso is the perfect place to wander aimlessly, happening upon tiny bars and osterie.
Follow the percorso dei mulini to discover the city’s four main water wheels, which still function to this day.
Treviso Wrap Up
There you have it, the top 10 things to do in the small town of Treviso, Italy! Though many people flock to more crowded locations like Venice or Positano, Treviso has its own small town charm for a truly authentic Italian experience.
We hope that this article has helped inspire you to visit Treviso, Italy. If you have any questions about the destination or have your own travel tips to share please leave these in the comments below.
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Helen Shevell says
Incredibly beautiful photos and an interesting article. Italy captivates and entices to visit its most hidden corners. Thank you for the story :)