Hidden Day Trips from Venice by Train – Explore the Veneto Beyond the Crowds

Venice in August is wonderful — but just beyond the lagoon lie some of Italy’s most beautiful and underrated cities and towns, all easily reached by train. Whether you're after art, wine, hilltop views, or a quiet piazza to escape the tourist trail, the Veneto region delivers — and all without a rental car.

Padua

Here are 4 of our favourite Veneto day trips from Venice — each less than 90 minutes away.

1. Treviso – Venice’s Quieter Cousin (35 min by train)

With its canals, cobbled streets, and frescoed buildings, Treviso feels like a secret version of Venice — minus the crowds. It’s the home of Prosecco, Tiramisu, and a slower pace of life.

What to do:

• Stroll along the Buranelli Canal

• Visit the Museo di Santa Caterina for unexpected art gems

• Try authentic tiramisu at Le Beccherie

Getting there: Regional train from Venezia Santa Lucia to Treviso Centrale (approx. 35 min)

2. Padua (Padova) – Art, Science & Aperitivo Culture (30–40 min)

Famous for the Scrovegni Chapel with Giotto’s frescoes and Europe’s oldest university botanical garden, Padua is intellectual and artistic — and also has a thriving aperitivo scene.

What to do:

• Book Scrovegni Chapel tickets in advance

• Stroll through the Prato della Valle, one of Italy’s largest squares

• Enjoy spritz and cicchetti under the arcades

Getting there: Direct trains from Venice every 15 minutes. Journey takes 30–40 minutes.

3. Vicenza – Palladian Architecture & Peaceful Streets (45 min)

Known for its Renaissance architecture by Andrea Palladio, Vicenza is elegant, photogenic, and far less visited than nearby cities.

What to do:

• Visit the Teatro Olimpico, the world’s oldest indoor theatre

• Climb to the Santuario di Monte Berico for sweeping views

• Walk the Corso Palladio, Vicenza’s stylish main street

Getting there: Trenitalia regional trains run regularly from Venice. Journey: 45–60 min

4. Bassano del Grappa – Mountains, Grappa, and a Medieval Bridge (90 min)

At the foot of the Dolomites, this postcard-perfect town is a favorite of Venetians escaping for the weekend. Famous for its covered wooden bridge, artisan shops, and of course, grappa tasting.

What to do:

• Walk across the Ponte degli Alpini

• Sample local grappa at Poli Grappa Museum

• Explore the Museo Civico and browse ceramics shops

Getting there: Take a regional train to Castelfranco Veneto, then change to Bassano del Grappa. Journey: ~1.5 hrs

Tips for Day-Tripping from Venice

• Use regional trains (Regionale / Regionale Veloce) – no reservations needed, low fares

• Buy tickets in advance or validate at machines before boarding

• Travel early to beat the heat and the crowds

Optional: Want to Stay Overnight?

Each of these towns has charming B&Bs and boutique hotels — much cheaper and quieter than Venice. Try:

• Le Convertite in Treviso (a former convent)

• Casa Camilla in Padua (boutique charm near the gardens)

• Villa Angaran San Giuseppe in Bassano (historic villa with a social mission)

Ready to Explore the Real Veneto?

Venice is just the beginning. Jump on a train and discover the cities locals escape to — where café tables spill into piazzas, church bells echo through alleyways, and August feels a little more Italian.

Real Travel Guides helps you explore Italy independently, sustainably, and by train