treviso tourist attractions

15 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Treviso

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Dec 23, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Treviso, capital of the province of the same name, lies in the Veneto plain, 20 kilometers north of Venice . It's often called one of the "Little Venices" for its canals with buildings rising straight from the water, as well as for the distinctly Venetian lions on its gates.

But you would never mistake Treviso's vine- and flower-draped canals or its candy-colored buildings for Venice, even though a modern wall decoration depicts a gondola prow and gondolier. Treviso is its own place, and a thoroughly charming one at that.

This is an old-world town of narrow streets, many of them lined with arcades, and it is still surrounded by well-preserved 15th-century walls. The canals and walls make it a pleasant town to stroll through and admire the many frescoes decorating house façades.

Although badly damaged by World War II bombing, Treviso's art-filled churches have been remarkably well restored and are worthwhile tourist attractions. You can see frescoes by medieval master Tommaso da Modena in several of them. Learn more about the best places to visit in and around the city with our list of the top tourist attractions and things to do in Treviso.

See also: Where to Stay in Treviso

1. Piazza dei Signori

2. cathedral and museo diocesano, 3. loggia dei cavalieri, 4. city walls and gates, 5. civic museums: luigi bailo and santa caterina, 6. san nicolò, 7. canals and water mills, 8. visit villa emo, 9. bike or walk along the sile river, 10. pescheria (fish market), 11. indulge your inner foodie, 12. san francesco, 13. castelfranco, 14. watch the sunset in conegliano, 15. a day trip to venice, where to stay in treviso for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in treviso.

In the center of Treviso is the picturesque Piazza dei Signori with the Palazzo dei Trecento , built in the 1300s and once the seat of Treviso's government, and the 15th-century Palazzo del Podestà with the tall Torre del Comune.

The Palazzo Pretorio , a Renaissance palace, now houses the town council. Between Piazza dei Signori and Piazza del Duomo runs Via Calmaggiore , Treviso's main street, lined by fine 15th- and 16th-century houses. Although only three blocks long, it has a number of buildings with decorated facades and lunettes above their arched doorways. On Treviso's market days, you'll find the square filled with stalls and shoppers.

Backing onto Piazza dei Signori but facing Piazza San Vito is the church of Santa Lucia , where the saint's relics rest. Although not at all prepossessing from the outside, it has a lovely peaceful interior with frescoed ceilings and remains of medieval frescoes on the walls. Treviso's tourist information office is in the little Piazza Monte di Pietà, just behind Piazza dei Signori.

The five-domed cathedral of San Pietro was built in the 15th and 16th centuries on the site of an earlier Romanesque church. Below it is the crypt of the original church, dating from the 11th and 12th centuries; the porch was added in 1836. Inside the cathedral, look for The Annunciation by Titian, painted in 1517, and the frescoes by Pordenone, completed in 1520.

The Cappella del Sacramento is decorated with excellent examples of sculptures by Pietro and Tullio Lombardo and by L. Bregno. To the left of the cathedral stands the Romanesque Baptistery from the 11th and 12th centuries, with 13th-century frescoes and a fine font.

Portions of a mosaic floor from a paleochristian baptistery have been exposed on Via Canonica, where there is also the Museo Diocesano d'Arte Sacra di Treviso (entered through the cathedral), containing sacred art and archaeological finds.

Address: Piazza del Duomo

On Via Martiri della Libertà, not far from Piazza dei Signori, the striking Loggia dei Cavalieri (Lodge of Knights) was built in 1276 as a meeting place for the nobility. The location was perhaps symbolic of the importance and power of the nobles who met there, as this is thought to have been the site of the ancient Roman Forum.

The roof of the open loggia is supported by stone columns, and the interior was originally covered in frescoes. These were overlaid by later frescoes in the 1300s, of which some remain. The loggia is still used for public events, and is one of the most photographed attractions in Treviso.

The well-preserved 15th-century walls that surround Treviso are not the first; Treviso was a Roman city, and the Romans fortified it from the earliest days. The River Sile flows alongside the walls, and together with the River Cagnan, it was used to further protect Treviso from attack.

The waters were diverted into canals that encircled the city and were designed so they could also be used to flood the surrounding lowlands, making a siege difficult. The present walls, strengthened by earthworks, were built by the Venetians, as you can guess from the winged lions on the imposing gates. Treviso was Venice's major stronghold protecting it from invasions from the north.

Take time to walk alongside the walls, or at least to see the three major gateways into the city, Porta San Tommaso, Porta Santi Quaranta, and Porta Altinia. From Porta San Tommaso , built in 1518 at the northeast corner of Treviso, you can walk along the northern rampart, where there are beautiful views of the Alps.

With the restoration of the building on Borgo Cavour, the collections of Treviso's Civic Museum are now housed in two separate complexes. The Luigi Bailo Civic Museum is dedicated to art of the late 19 th and early 20 th centuries and houses the largest existing collection of works by Arturo Martini, one of Europe's most important 20 th -century sculptors.

The 14 th -century former convent of Santa Catarina, long abandoned and badly damaged in World War II, has been restored and repurposed to display the museum's collections of medieval and Renaissance works. These include paintings by Bellini, Titian, Cima da Conegliano, Lorenzo Lotto, Pisanello, Pordenone, and many other artists.

The highlight is Tommaso da Modena's best-known work: his fresco cycle depicting the life of St. Ursula. Painted in the 14 th and 15 th centuries and surprisingly lively and dynamic, these frescoes were moved here from the now-demolished church of Santa Margherita degli Eremitani.

Less famous, but a fascinating glimpse of Treviso in the late 19 th century are the frescoes rescued from patrician homes, public buildings, and churches that were scheduled for demolition. In addition to art, the Santa Catarina complex displays impressive archaeological collections, including bronze swords dating back to 1600 BC.

Rounding off the Museo Civico holdings are three late-medieval buildings on Via Canova: Ca' da Noal , Casa Robegan , and Casa Karwath , now restored as home to changing exhibits of contemporary art.

At the southwest corner of the old town, the Dominican church of San Nicolò is a spacious Gothic church built in brick during the 13th and 14th centuries. It has round piers and an unusual vaulted timber roof, which has been restored.

On the high altar is Madonna Enthroned by Fra Marco Pensaben and Savoldo from 1521, and the tomb of Senator Agostino Oningo is by master sculptors Pietro and Tullio Lombardi dating from 1490. The elaborate organ, completed in 1779, is by Gaetano Callido, and a nearby fresco represents St. Christopher.

But the frescoes in the chapterhouse of the former monastery are especially impressive. Wrapping around the room is a frieze of 40 fresco portraits of Dominicans by Tommaso da Modena, painted in 1352.

What makes them so outstanding, even in this city where there are so many examples of his work, is their personality, even humor. Each friar is shown at work, engaged in mundane duties at his desk, and the liveliness and individuality of their portrayal is surprising for its day, even for a follower of Giotto, as Tommaso was.

Address: Via San Nicolò, Treviso

Two rivers encircle Treviso, and in addition to their confluence here, their waters have been contained into a series of canals and tiny waterways that wander picturesquely through the city. Houses rise directly from their water, and it flows under the arched foundations of others.

Each bridge reveals another vignette of balconies above the water. Adding to all this is an occasional waterwheel, a remnant of those that once drove mills throughout the city. You'll see them as you walk around Treviso, but there is one quite near the Pescheria, the fish market.

One of the great architect Andrea Palladio's most spacious villas, the 16th-century Villa Emo was also a statement of social change, incorporating all the business of the great agricultural estate (the family made its fortune growing corn for polenta) under one roof, from the life of the family to the work done by farm laborers.

Giovanni Battista Zelotti painted the interior frescoes of mythological and agricultural scenes, which glorify hard work and rural life. Look for the playful use of trompe l'oeil to simulate architectural elements that appear to frame the scenes.

Address: Via Stazione 5, Fanzolo di Vedelago, Treviso

One of the most popular things to do in Treviso, for both locals and tourists, is walking or cycling through the Natural Regional Park along the Sile River. The park protects more than 10,000 acres of meadow, wetlands, and river.

You can follow the river in either direction, passing villas, settlements, even the Cimitero dei Burci, a "cemetery" of old commercial boats that once used the river for trade. They were abandoned and sunk here in protest when the river was closed to navigation.

One of the oldest and least changed quarters in Treviso includes the colonnaded buildings of the Buranelli and the convent of the Camaldolese nuns. Until the mid-1800s, there were three small islands in its midst, where fishermen from Burano brought their fish to sell. Then the three islands were joined, and a proper fish market was built on its own little island.

Surrounded as it is by elegant old buildings, this bustling morning market is one of the city's most atmospheric sights. More recently, some incongruous but attractive contemporary sculptures of fish and a mermaid have been added in the river.

Address: Via Pescheria, Treviso

Treviso claims to be the place where Tiramisù originated, and although other cities make the same claim, it is still a good excuse to stop at a café and sample the delectable treat at least once.

The name itself seems to substantiate the claim, as it comes from the Treviso dialect, "Tireme su," meaning "pick-me-up."

The mix of Romanesque and Gothic features in this church hints at its origin in the 13th century, when Gothic was beginning to replace the older, heavier Romanesque. Hence its rounded transept and entrance arches and lighter sleeker arches of the windows and some chapels. History has not treated the church kindly.

Like many others in Treviso, it was commandeered by the French army when they took control of Venice and Treviso in 1797, robbed of its art, and used as a military storehouse. The monastery was demolished, and it was robbed of its cloisters, and a house was built with the bricks of two cloisters.

The church floor was removed, and the interior was divided into several floors to create more storage space. What's amazing is how much has survived. Inside the restored church is the 1364 tomb of Dante's son, Pietro Alighieri, a coffered timber ceiling, and in the altar to the left of the main altar, a Madonna and Child, with the saints painted by Tommaso of Modena.

Address: Viale San Antonio, Treviso

One of the most photogenic places to visit around Treviso is the fortified medieval town of Castelfranco, about 30 kilometers to the west. Only half an hour by train, it makes an easy afternoon excursion.

Castelfranco's defensive walls, built in the late 1100s to defend the town from Padua, rise picturesquely above a moat. You can walk around the walls and moat, and for a good view of the entire set of fortifications - and the town - climb the 43-meter-tall Torre Civica, which has historic displays at its various levels.

Inside the walls, the masterpiece Madonna and Child by Italian Renaissance artist Giorgione hangs in the cathedral. Giorgione, whose house you can visit in Castelfranco, was the teacher of Titian, whose reputation soon grew to surpass his teacher's.

Only 25 minutes north of Treviso by train, Conegliano is one of the most appealing towns in the Veneto. It climbs a hillside in three terraces before reaching the walled Castelvecchio at its summit. In its tower is a museum of frescoes and paintings, as well as a restaurant and sweeping views of the rolling countryside.

A cobblestone path connects the castle to the town below, its arcaded streets filled with palaces from the 15th century and later. Here, you'll find several churches of note, including the cathedral and the adjacent Scuola di Santa Maria dei Battuti, lined with an unusual cycle of 15th- and 16th-century frescoes.

Conegliano makes a good day or afternoon excursion from Treviso. You can go in the late afternoon, watch the sunset over dinner at the restaurant in the castle, and have plenty of time to catch a train back to Treviso.

It's so easy to get to Venice, only about 35 minutes from Treviso by bus, that many tourists choose to stay here and "commute" to the city. In fact, Treviso airport is often used by low-cost airlines as an alternative to Venice's Marco Polo airport.

You'll arrive at either Santa Lucia train station or Porta Roma, both at the end of the Grand Canal . The vaporetto, Venice's water-born transit system, will take you the full length of the canal; past the elegant palaces; under Rialto Bridge; and to St. Mark's Square , where you'll find the city's two main tourist attractions, Basilica San Marco and the Doge's Palace .

We recommend these great hotels in Treviso with easy access to the city's old town:

• Hotel San Nicolo is in the upper price range for a small city, but the boutique hotel is in a period residence in the heart of the historic center. The beautifully decorated, themed guest rooms have thoughtful comforts, such as bathrobes and coffee/tea makers; a full breakfast is included.
• Hotel Al Fogher : This 3-star hotel is within walking distance of the old town, with family-sized rooms and modern décor; breakfast is included.
• Hotel Mezzaluna : This affordable family-run hotel is in a quiet residential area, a 20-minute walk to the city center; rates include complimentary breakfast.
• B&B A Casa di Dora : This budget-friendly bed-and-breakfast has bright rooms and a lovely garden.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Places to Visit near Treviso: Intrigued by Treviso's lions and other traces of its days as part of the Venetian Republic? You'll find more reminders of Venice in the attractions of nearby Padua and in the charming towns that scatter the foothills of the Dolomites. This is also where you'll find some of Italy's best ski resorts . Villa Elmo is only the beginning of the splendid villas in this region, many of them designed by 16th-century Italian architect, Andrea Palladio, whose villas are among the top tourist attractions in Vicenza.

Exploring More of Northern Italy: Traces of Venice reach across much of northern Italy, through the historic streets of Verona , as you drive past the sites around beautiful Lake Garda, and as far as the hilltop town of Bergamo . Farther to the west are the villas and palaces of Lake Como , known for some of the most beautiful gardens in Italy . You'll find more ideas for your travels in PlanetWare's list of best places to visit in Italy .

More on Italy

Home » Travel Guides » Italy » 15 Best Things to Do in Treviso (Italy)

15 Best Things to Do in Treviso (Italy)

Treviso is a city that is often overlooked due to its close proximity to Venice but it is an amazing tourist destination and has a great deal to offer for those who are willing to explore! This city is located approximately 40 minutes from Venice and has a population of over 80,000 – most of the citizens of Treviso live outside the historic city walls and the hinterland however.

Treviso has Celtic origins and it was thought that the Celts settled here originally. In 89 BC however the settlement was turned into a Roman Commune and developed into an important city. Throughout the Middle Ages, Treviso was part of the Lombard League and was involved in various sieges and conflicts; hence the need for its stunning city walls and defensive towers. It is said that Treviso is the site of the original production of Prosecco wine, and some historians believe it is the birthplace of the Italian dessert Tiramisu.

In terms of tourism, Treviso benefits from its historical defensive fortifications which still stand in a fantastic condition today. Furthermore, the city has a host of important and decadent religious structures and a plethora of interesting museums. Venice is not the only Italian city to have canals either – Treviso has a gorgeous array of canals that are perfect to explore in the fine weather.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Treviso :

1. Treviso Cathedral

Treviso Cathedral is undoubtedly the most impressive structure in the city and is crowned with five huge green domes.

The cathedral is located in the northern part of the historic town centre and is easily reached on foot from the Piazza dei Signori.

At the western edge of the Cathedral, the entrance features a columned portico that looks more like an ancient Roman temple rather than a 15th century church.

Aside from the portico, the exterior is quite reserved and simplistic, but the interior features some gorgeous artwork and frescos.

The Malchiostro Chapel is particularly noteworthy and contains some gorgeous religious artwork.

Furthermore, underneath the church you can find the original crypt that dates back to the 11th century.

2. Museo Diocesano

Next to Treviso Cathedral is the Museo Diocesano which contains a fantastic array of relics and artefacts relating to the church and the religious history of the city.

The ground floor of this museum contains various archaeological finds from the region including a brilliant collection of marble statues.

Continuing on, the second floor contains a host of religious artwork dating as far back as the 13th century from such artists as Batoni and Rocco Marconi.

Finally, on the other floors you can find the goldsmith and the section devoted to sacred fabrics.

The goldsmith contains an interesting collection of religious jewellery and accessories such as crucifixes and embossed books.

The section of sacred wraps contains some gorgeous tapestries and religious garments.

3. Walk around the ancient City walls and gates

Treviso is an ancient city that had an extensive system of defensive fortifications, guard towers and gates.

The historic old town is still separated today from the modern parts and much of the cities original city walls and gates remain in good condition.

Created in the 15th century, the walls covered the entirety of the old town and much of the sections ran parallel to the River Sile and the man-made canals that were channelled.

Porta San Tomaso and Porta Santi Quaranta are two of the most impressive gatehouses that still stand, and in the north eastern corner of the old town, you can see one of the round towers that served as a defensive garrison.

Take time to explore the walls and gates and admire the architecture and significance.

4. Chiesa di San Nicolo

The Church of San Nicolo is another important religious structure in the historic old town.

Located in the south western part of the old town, the church is of immense size and towers over the surrounding structures.

Originally the church was constructed around the 13th century by the Dominican Friars who settled in Treviso.

The exterior of the church is relatively simple and features minimal decoration but the interior contrasts greatly.

Inside the church you can see a great deal of decoration and features such as the wooden panelled ceiling, the stone and brick columns and arches, and the coloured tiled floor.

Furthermore, the church is decorated with a myriad of frescos from various time periods and contains a fantastically decorated organ.

5. Walk along the beautiful canals

Although Treviso is often overshadowed by the undeniably beautiful Venice, but it has a range of man-made canals that wind through the historic city centre.

These canals join onto the River Sile and were used historically for transportation of goods through Treviso.

This network of canals has a range of connecting bridges and when visiting this town, it is a great idea to simply walk through the streets and explore the hidden waterways.

These picturesque waterways are simply beautiful and the water flows right up to the houses – most of which have small docking platforms or terraces that open out onto the water.

Furthermore, you can also find a range of water wheels that are remnants of a simpler time.

6. Watch the locals at the Pescheria

Treviso is known for the Isola della Pescheria which is literally an island dedicated to the sale of fresh fish.

Located on one of the central canals in the town centre, this small island can be accessed by two bridges and in the centre there is a bustling fish market.

This part of Treviso is one of the most authentic and there is no better way to watch the locals than to visit the fish market and watch the traders and buyers haggle and strike up a deal.

Surrounding the fish market you can find several sculptures such as a mermaid and fish which adds to the style and intrigue of this wonderful place.

7. Piazza dei Signori

The Piazza dei Signori is one of the main squares in the old town of Treviso and is a great place to visit.

The architecture surrounding the square is sublime and the Prefettura di Treviso features an ornate front facade and an immense bell tower, while the Palazzo dei Trecento has a beautiful arched loggia.

Markets are often held here and sometimes concerts or important events are held here – it is not uncommon to see rows of chairs set out on the squares for whatever event is on.

Surrounding the square you can find a range of cafes and restaurants but also a host of shops and stalls.

8. Chiesa di San Francesco

The last of the large churches in the historic old town of Treviso is the Church of San Francesco.

This church is located in the northern corner of the old town on Via San Francesco.

Constructed in the 13th century, the church features a Romanesque design and has a large bell tower at the rear of the building.

Over the years the church fell into disrepair and it was used at times as a stable and a military barracks – it was not until 1928 that it was restored to its former glory.

The interior of the church is plain but striking and features a some beautiful coloured mosaics and a multitude of religious decoration.

9. Museo Bailo

The Luigi Bailo Civic Museum is named after Luigi Bailo who was the first director of the Treviso Civic Museum chain.

This museum is located in the north western corner of the old town and can be found on the Borgo Camillo.

Within the confines of the museum you can find a fantastic collection of art and archaeology.

The art section contains both historical works and contemporary art spanning Impressionism to Avant-garde.

For those who appreciate fine art, this museum will prove to be facinating.

10. Piazza San Vito

This square is actually only a short distance from the Piazza dei Signori and cover a larger area.

You can walk to the San Vito Piazza and it is a pleasant place to enjoy a drink or do a little shopping.

The Piazza is surrounded by beautiful buildings – the structure at the north edge of the square has a gorgeous arched loggia, as does the structure on the eastern side of the square.

Furthermore, in the centre there is a small fountain and a large outdoor seating area for the cafes that sit on the piazza.

In the immediate vicinity of the square and streets such as Via Campana you can find a range of shops to peruse together with some first class restaurants.

11. Take a trip to Venice

When visiting Treviso, you cannot pass up the chance to travel to  Venice – the island city of love.

Venice is a truly unique place and is renowned worldwide for its stunning network of canals and waterways.

The city of Venice is actually made up of hundreds of small islands that are interconnected with canals and bridges.

The Grand Canal flows through the centre of Venice and serves as the main thoroughfare through the city – consider taking a water taxi or a gondola on here to the Rialto Bridge.

Aside from the canals, Venice also has a range of beautiful structures such as St. Mark’s Campanile, St. Mark’s Cathedral, the Chiesa di San Giorgio Maggiore and the aforementioned Rialto Bridge.

This historical city is bursting with attractions and can be reached from Treviso in under 40 minutes by train or bus.

12. Enjoy a beer at the Helmut Bar

Treviso is not know for its vibrant nightlife but it does have a selection of brilliant bars and clubs if you are looking for a night out in the city.

The Helmut bar benefits from a great location, a lively atmosphere and a fantastic selection of beers, ales and spirits.

This bar is only a short distance from the Piazza dei Signori and is one of the best locations to enjoy a few drinks in the evening.

Aside from the extensive range of alcoholic beverages, you can also order a range of snacks such as club sandwiches and chips – all of which are cooked to perfection and taste great.

Come to Helmut for a memorable evening and to mingle with the locals!

13. Enjoy a fine dining experience at the Carbone Restaurant

Treviso has a range of quality restaurants but if you are looking for authentic Italian and Mediterranean cuisine, the Carbone restaurants is definitely worth a visit.

This establishment serves a range of dishes and speciliases in meat courses – you can choose a variety of mouth-watering steaks that are cooked just to your liking.

Each meal is beautifully presented and tastes absolutely divine.

You can also choose from a range of accompanying wines and some fabulous desserts too to round off your evening of culinary delights.

14. Enjoy a coffee at the Signore & Signori Café

Located in the important Piazza dei Signori, the Signore & Signori Cafe is a fine establishment and a great place to relax and enjoy a delicious coffee or some gelato.

This cafe has an outdoor seating area that is covered by an horning and from here you can watch the comings and goings of the locals in the square.

The coffee is simply fantastic and you can choose from a variety of different blends.

Furthermore, they have an amazing range of Gelato and some tasty flavours such as strawberries and tiramisu.

While walking through the town centre, consider stopping here to rejuvenate and to recharge your batteries with a bite to eat and a drink.

15. Take a trip to Padua

Padua is another fantastic city that is located only a short distance from Treviso.

Padua is located to the south west of Treviso and can be reached via train or bus in approximately one hour.

This commune has a great deal to offer considering its relative size and it is known as being the university city where Galileo was educated.

The main attractions of Padua include the gorgeous Basilica di Sant Antonio, the Piazza dei Signori, Padua Cathedral and the botanical gardens.

Furthermore, like Treviso and Venice, Padua has a small network of canals that are waiting to be explored.

15 Best Things to Do in Treviso (Italy):

• Treviso Cathedral
• Museo Diocesano
• Walk around the ancient City walls and gates
• Chiesa di San Nicolo
• Walk along the beautiful canals
• Watch the locals at the Pescheria
• Piazza dei Signori
• Chiesa di San Francesco
• Museo Bailo
• Piazza San Vito
• Take a trip to Venice
• Enjoy a beer at the Helmut Bar
• Enjoy a fine dining experience at the Carbone Restaurant
• Enjoy a coffee at the Signore & Signori Café
• Take a trip to Padua

Must-see attractions in Treviso

Museo Collezione Salce

When Treviso-born Nando Salce donated his collection of Italian advertising posters to the Italian state in 1962, he established a unique Italian graphic…

Museo Luigi Bailo

The contemporary white marmorino entrance to Treviso’s modern-art museum is a sign of good things to come. Namely, a stunningly good 20th-century art…

Il Complesso di Santa Caterina

Housed in the 14th-century convent complex of St Catherine, Treviso’s civic museum presents the history of the city from the Palaeolithic era to Roman…

Gallerie delle Prigione

Treviso’s old Habsburg prison has been reborn thanks to Fondazione Benetton and visionary architect Tobia Scarpa (son of Carlo Scarpa). Now its stark…

Fontana delle Tette

Treviso's best-known piece of statuary is the 16th-century naked female torso called the Fontana delle Tette, a snigger-worthy translation coming in as …

Chiesa di Santa Lucia

The small Chiesa di Santa Lucia adjoins the larger Chiesa di San Vito and is an absolute beauty. Its vaulted ceiling and walls are covered with colourful…

Chiesa di San Nicolò

This unusual, soaring Gothic structure dates to the 13th and 14th centuries, although much of what you see today was rebuilt after devastating air strikes…

Six mammoth Roman columns guard the entrance to Treviso's cathedral. The only real attraction inside this neoclassical hulk is Titian's Malchiostro…

More destinations you need to see

THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Treviso

Things to do in treviso, explore popular experiences, tours in and around treviso.

Prosecco Hills Tour with Wine Tasting & Lunch from Venice Treviso

• Prosecco experience. Wine tasting. Full day from Treviso

Tiramisù cooking class and tasting in Treviso

Private Half Day Cooking Class at a Cesarina’s Home in Treviso

Cesarine: Small group Pasta and Tiramisu class in Treviso

Venice In a Day: Basilica San Marco, Doges Palace & Gondola ride

Legendary Venice St. Mark's Basilica with Terrace Access & Doge's Palace

Venice: St.Mark's Basilica & Doge's Palace Tour with Tickets

Venice: Grand Canal by Gondola with Commentary

Murano & Burano Islands Guided Small-Group Tour by Private Boat

Tours & sightseeing.

Top Attractions in Treviso

Other Top Attractions around Treviso

Food, Wine & Nightlife

What travellers are saying

• Centro Storico di Treviso
• Passeggiata lungo la restera
• I Buranelli
• Piazza dei Signori
• Passeggiata Lungo il Fiume Sile
• La Strada Ciclabile Treviso-Ostiglia
• Fiume Cagnan
• Parco Naturale Regionale del Fiume Sile
• Parco dello Storga
• Parco Ali Dorate
• Prosecco Hills Tour with Wine Tasting & Lunch from Venice Treviso
• E-bike Tour in Valdobbiadene with Wine Tasting and Typical Food
• Chiesa di Santa Lucia

Top Things to Do in Treviso, Italy - Treviso Must-See Attractions

Things to do in treviso, explore popular experiences, tours in and around treviso.

Prosecco Hills Tour with Wine Tasting & Lunch from Venice Treviso

• Prosecco experience. Wine tasting. Full day from Treviso

Tiramisù cooking class and tasting in Treviso

Private Half Day Cooking Class at a Cesarina’s Home in Treviso

Cesarine: Small group Pasta and Tiramisu class in Treviso

Venice In a Day: Basilica San Marco, Doges Palace & Gondola ride

Legendary Venice St. Mark's Basilica with Terrace Access & Doge's Palace

Venice: St.Mark's Basilica & Doge's Palace Tour with Tickets

Venice: Grand Canal by Gondola with Commentary

Murano & Burano Islands Guided Small-Group Tour by Private Boat

Tours & sightseeing.

Top Attractions in Treviso

Other Top Attractions around Treviso

Food, Wine & Nightlife

What travellers are saying

• Centro Storico di Treviso
• Passeggiata lungo la restera
• I Buranelli
• Piazza dei Signori
• Passeggiata Lungo il Fiume Sile
• La Strada Ciclabile Treviso-Ostiglia
• Fiume Cagnan
• Parco Naturale Regionale del Fiume Sile
• Parco dello Storga
• Parco Ali Dorate
• Prosecco Hills Tour with Wine Tasting & Lunch from Venice Treviso
• E-bike Tour in Valdobbiadene with Wine Tasting and Typical Food
• Chiesa di Santa Lucia

THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Treviso

Things to do in treviso, explore popular experiences, tours in and around treviso.

Prosecco Hills Tour with Wine Tasting & Lunch from Venice Treviso

• Prosecco experience. Wine tasting. Full day from Treviso

Tiramisù cooking class and tasting in Treviso

Private Half Day Cooking Class at a Cesarina’s Home in Treviso

Cesarine: Small group Pasta and Tiramisu class in Treviso

Venice In a Day: Basilica San Marco, Doges Palace & Gondola ride

Legendary Venice St. Mark's Basilica with Terrace Access & Doge's Palace

Venice: St.Mark's Basilica & Doge's Palace Tour with Tickets

Venice: Grand Canal by Gondola with Commentary

Murano & Burano Islands Guided Small-Group Tour by Private Boat

Tours & sightseeing.

Top Attractions in Treviso

Other Top Attractions around Treviso

Food, Wine & Nightlife

What travellers are saying

• Centro Storico di Treviso
• Passeggiata lungo la restera
• I Buranelli
• Piazza dei Signori
• Passeggiata Lungo il Fiume Sile
• La Strada Ciclabile Treviso-Ostiglia
• Fiume Cagnan
• Parco Naturale Regionale del Fiume Sile
• Parco dello Storga
• Parco Ali Dorate
• Prosecco Hills Tour with Wine Tasting & Lunch from Venice Treviso
• E-bike Tour in Valdobbiadene with Wine Tasting and Typical Food
• Chiesa di Santa Lucia

The Purposely Lost

• Get In Touch
• FREE Travel Planner
• Shop My Favorites
• Story Archives

Find Lyndsay's Favorites

History Travel + Local Experiences

December 9, 2022 By Lyndsay

25+ Incredible Things to do in Treviso, Italy

• 1.1 1. Explore inside the Cathedral of Treviso
• 1.2 2. Walk around the ancient le Mura di Treviso
• 1.3 3. Walk along the beautiful canals
• 1.4 4. Taste Tiramisù in the city where it was invented
• 1.5 5. Visit the Pescheria
• 1.6 6. See the Fontana delle Tette
• 1.7 7. Visit the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore
• 1.8 8. Admire the Monumento ai Caduti
• 1.9 9. Check out tons of advertising graphics at the Museo Nazionale Collezione Salce
• 1.10 10. See the city on a private walking tour
• 1.11 11. Learn to make fresh pasta and tiramisù in a cooking class
• 1.12 12. Enjoy a performance at the Teatro Mario Del Monaco
• 1.13 13. Explore the Museo Diocesano
• 1.14 14. Visit the Chiesa di San Vito e Santa Lucia
• 1.15 15. Check out a temporary exhibit at Gallerie delle Prigioni
• 1.16 16. Visit the Museo Luigi Bailo
• 1.17 17. Explore the Museo Santa Caterina
• 1.18 18. Check out the Chiesa di San Francesco
• 1.19 19. Admire the Palazzo dei Trecento
• 1.20 20. Stand under the Loggia dei Cavalieri
• 1.21 21. Go shopping in the city center
• 1.22 22. Learn about outer space at the College Pio X Planetarium
• 1.23 23. Explore the Le Riviere neighborhood
• 1.24 24. Take the train for a day trip from Treviso
• 1.25 25. Head out for the day into the Prosecco hills
• 2.1 What is in Treviso?
• 2.2 Is Treviso worth visiting?
• 2.3 What is Treviso known for?
• 2.4 Is Treviso better than Venice?
• 3 What to see in Treviso, Italy: Wrap-UP

This post may contain affiliate links! I will receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you purchase something recommended here.

Just a quick train ride north of Venice, you’ll find the stunning city of Treviso.

Although it was once its own city-state, it was ruled by the Venetian Republic for more than 400 years.

With some of the city’s medieval architecture still standing today, the old buildings and narrow streets are full of charm. 

You can spend hours discovering the city’s historic center by taking a scenic walk along the canals or the ancient city walls, passing art galleries, museums, churches, and restaurants as you go.

If you’re interested in taking a day trip from Venice or adding this beautiful city to your Italy itinerary, there are so many things to do in Treviso that you’re sure to enjoy your day!

Grab your Travel Planner

Planning your next adventure can become overwhelming. Stay organized with this free, printable travel planner!

You can unsubscribe anytime. For more details, review our Privacy Policy.

You have successfully joined our subscriber list.

The Best Things to do in Treviso, Italy

Thinking about what to do in Treviso?

Take a walk along the canals, go shopping at the local Treviso fish market, enjoy a meal or dessert at one of the Italian city’s top-notch restaurants, try Prosecco in the nearby hills, and so much more.

1. Explore inside the Cathedral of Treviso

The Cattedrale di San Pietro Apostolo stands in the center of Treviso, and if you’re not looking for it, you might just walk right by.

The Cathedral you’ll see in Piazza del Duomo today was built in the 18th century, replacing the church built in the 6th century. 

The exterior is simple and unassuming, and the first time I visited Treviso, I didn’t realize I had just passed the Duomo! 

However, the interior is stunning, with numerous paintings and sculptures throughout the space. 

There are many beautiful things to see in Treviso inside the Cathedral, including the remaining Crypt from the original 6th-century church, an urn with a relic from 4th-century Saint Liberalis of Treviso, and the painting  Malchiostro Annunciation  by Venetian Renaissance painter Titian.

2. Walk around the ancient le Mura di Treviso

Although Treviso is an ancient city, its city walls date back to the Middle Ages.

After coming under Venetian rule in the 14th century, massive defensive walls and ramparts were built around the city to protect it from attacks.  

The city walls circled the entire length of the old town and are an excellent example of modern fortifications.

Within the walls are two gates around the city of Treviso–Porta San Tommasino and Porta Santi Quarantina. 

Today, the walls stand about 5 km around and are a great area to walk around to enjoy part of your day.

And in the summer, you might run into an outdoor event hosted by the town along your walk on the walls.

3. Walk along the beautiful canals

Along with walking along Treviso’s ancient walls, one of the best things to do in Treviso is walk along its beautiful canals when you’re visiting this beautiful city.

While Venice is far more famous for its network of canals, Treviso also has several canals that course through its historic city center. 

In particular, the man-made Canal of the Buranelli is a stunning area to explore.

Up until World War II, local women would come to its sloped banks where the current is slower to wash their laundry.

Fun Fact : A 16th-century building still standing used to house merchants that came to Treviso from the Venetian island of Burano. The Buranelli canal is named after this colorful island!

4. Taste Tiramisù in the city where it was invented

I’m sure you’ve heard of the iconic Italian dessert, tiramisù? Did you know–this delicious dessert originates in Treviso! 

Although several accounts claim the fame, the most widely accepted history for the sweet treat starts at Le Beccherie restaurant in Treviso in the 1970s. 

Owner Ado Campeol and his wife developed the dessert’s modern version, using only creamy mascarpone cheese, eggs, sugar, ladyfinger sponges, coffee, and cocoa powder dusted on top.

This obviously means that one of the most important Treviso things to do is to taste true tiramisù!

You can still find the iconic dessert on the menu at Le Beccherie or any of the city’s restaurants to enjoy after dinner.

5. Visit the Pescheria

Like every ancient city on a body of water, Treviso has its own fresh fish market.

The Isola della Pescheria, which translates to “fish market island,” is found in the city’s center, connected by a bridge on either side.

Here, you can watch locals buy their daily catch and bargain for the best price, and beautiful mermaid and fish sculptures decorate the area.

• The Ultimate Venice Bucket List: 55+ Things to do in Venice, Italy
• 25 Uniquely Interesting Facts About Venice, Italy
• Your Perfect Itinerary for 2 Days in Venice, Italy
• The 15+ Best Beaches In Venice, Italy
• Your Guide to the Best Nightlife in Venice, Italy
• 14+ Awesome Rainy Day Activities in Venice, Italy

6. See the Fontana delle Tette

If you enter a small courtyard off of C. del Podestà, you’ll find the incredible Fontana delle Tette.

Commissioned in 1559 by the mayor of Treviso, the fountain features a marble sculpture of a woman squeezing her bosom while water pours out of its center.

In fact, the word “ tette ” derives from the Italian word for breasts.

Fun Fact:  Throughout Venetian rule, when the new Doge was appointed, the original statue had a stream of wine flowing for three days instead of its usual water. One side would provide red wine, and the other would give white wine.

Across from the statue, you can spot a pulley system used to secure water from the cistern below.

7. Visit the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore

This beautiful brick church and bell tower are dedicated to the Madona Granda.

Initially founded in 780, the church was rebuilt in 1475 in the late Gothic style, while the chapels were built in the Renaissance style about 50 years later.

Inside the church, you can see Renaissance frescos by L. Fiumicelli and G.P. Meloni and works by Pozzoserrato and Bambaia.

8. Admire the Monumento ai Caduti

Officially named Gloria , the stunning sculpture depicts sixteen bronze men carrying a fallen fellow soldier, and the women represent grieving mothers. 

Molise sculptor Arturo Stagliano created work housed in Piazza Vittoria in 1931 to honor the 630 soldiers from Treviso who died in World War I. 

Take a moment to remember the lost lives and admire the imposing sculpture.

9. Check out tons of advertising graphics at the Museo Nazionale Collezione Salce

At the National Salce Collection Museum, you’ll find the most extensive collection of advertising graphics in Italy.

Donated by local accountant Ferdinando Salce, the museum makes up more than four floors of rotating exhibits to highlight the more than 25,000 pieces in its collection.  

You can also find paintings by Pozzoserrato and an 18th-century organ constructed by Gaetano Callido.

Check out the museum’s hours and ticket pricing on their website.

10. See the city on a private walking tour

One of my favorite ways to get to know a new city is on a walking tour.

This 2.5-hour private guided walking tour takes you all over the city with a local to learn all about the historic city centre.

Hear the history of some of the city’s most famous landmarks, like Piazza dei Signori and the medieval walls, while exploring the historic city neighborhoods.

11. Learn to make fresh pasta and tiramisù in a cooking class

You’re not just in Italy, surrounded by excellent food–you’re in Treviso, the home of tiramisù!

If you want to make this delicious dessert, why not take a cooking class?

Share in your love of pasta with this small-group Pasta and Tiramisu class .

You’ll spend a few hours learning how to make two different types of fresh pasta by hand and the city’s famous tiramisù.

12. Enjoy a performance at the Teatro Mario Del Monaco

Operated by the Teatro Stabile dal Veneto, the same company that runs Teatro Verdi in Padua and Teatro Goldini in Venice, this theater is Treviso’s municipal opera house.

It originally opened in 1692 under the name Teatro Onigo and is named after the famous tenor Mario Del Monaco who lived in Treviso for close to a decade before his death in 1982. 

Today, the theater offers concerts, plays, and dance performances; you can check out its current production schedule on its website .

13. Explore the Museo Diocesano

The Museo Diocesano is home to artifacts and other items of significance from the Diocese of Treviso.

Here, you can find ancient sculptures and other embellishments that were initially displayed on the medieval version of the city’s Cathedral. 

They also have collections dedicated to sacred goldsmith works, fabrics, frescos, and paintings.

If you want to visit the museum, you need to contact them in advance by calling or emailing.

They also offer a guided museum tour on the first Friday of the month, but you must confirm your attendance in advance. 

14. Visit the Chiesa di San Vito e Santa Lucia

Chiesa di San Vito e Santa Lucia is a fascinating church tucked into Treviso’s city center.

The structure was built in the late 1300s for various uses.

The Church of San Vito was there first, while the space dedicated to Santa Lucia wasn’t established until more than 300 years later.

In 1561, renovations to the buildings of the two churches with the chapel of Santa Maria delle Carceri became the sacristy that connected the two. 

Inside, you can see several preserved pieces from the 14th and 15th centuries in Istrian stone, which comes from around Pula in the Istria region of Croatia. 

15. Check out a temporary exhibit at Gallerie delle Prigioni

Found in the center of Treviso, the Gallerie delle Prigioni is located in what was once a 19th-century Habsburg-era prison.

The city used it for about 100 years before the town’s prison was moved elsewhere. 

Although the historic building was severely neglected, it was restored over several years, starting in 2017.

Restoration work preserved as much attention to the details of its history as possible. 

Since it’s a temporary exhibition space, the Gallerie is only sometimes open.

You can check their website to find out if there’s an installation there when you want to visit and visiting hours if it is open. 

16. Visit the Museo Luigi Bailo

Treviso’s Museo Luigi Bailo is located inside the Renaissance monastic complex of the former Discalced Carmelites (Carmelitani Scalzi).

In collaboration with Museo di Santa Caterina and Casa Robegan, this museum preserves the city’s history through its collections.

This museum is dedicated to the memory of Luigi Bailo, whose collection of local works of art helped preserve the city’s art and history.

17. Explore the Museo Santa Caterina

Although you can now find the Museo Santa Caterina occupying this historic palazzo, one of its early owners was immortalized in The Divine Comedy .

When Dante Alighieri was exiled from Florence in 1302, the feudal lord of Treviso invited the poet to stay at this palace.

Later used as a monastery and barracks, the building underwent extensive restoration to become the museum it is today.

Now it’s ​​home to an archaeological exhibit and art from the Middle Ages to the 18th century.

18. Check out the Chiesa di San Francesco

In 1216, Saint Francis of Assisi sent a group of his friars to Treviso to establish an order.

The beautiful Chiesa di San Francesco was completed in 1270; all of the most prominent families in the city had their own chapel here.

Inside, you can see Byzantine-era frescos from Tommaso da Modena and his students.

19. Admire the Palazzo dei Trecento

The Palazzo dei Trecento is the city’s town hall.

Also known as Palazzo della Ragione, it was designed between the 13th and 14th centuries and decorated with Venetian frescos.

Although an Allied bomb heavily damaged the building during World War II, the city saved the historic structure from demolition due to its surviving frescos.

20. Stand under the Loggia dei Cavalieri

Right on the site where historians believe the town’s Roman forum once stood, you can see the Loggia dei Cavalieri.

The Lodge of Knights was built for knights and other community members to meet for discussions, exchanges, and recreational games. 

Today, you can admire the historic space on a momentary break from the sunshine, rain, or snow. 

21. Go shopping in the city center

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Treviso, you have to go shopping! 

The city has excellent fashion stores if you want to refresh your wardrobe.

From name-brand stores like H&M and Zara to smaller boutiques and a few vintage shops, you can find something that fits your style.

And, if you love United Colors of Benetton, you’ll find their flagship location in town; the Benetton family is from Treviso.

22. Learn about outer space at the College Pio X Planetarium

If you’re still thinking of what to see in Treviso, check out the city’s planetarium!

The incredible Planetario del Collegio Pio X is home to two planetariums–an older one and a new one.

The older planetarium recreates the natural movement of the Earth, Moon, Mercury, and Venus, the apparent motion of the Sun in relation to the Zodiac, and several other different space phases.

You can also see old telescope models and other astrological instruments. 

In the modern planetarium, you can observe about a thousand stars and a projector that can display slides with imagery from modern telescopes. 

If you’re interested in visiting yourself, the planetarium is open on schooldays or through appointment. You can contact them in advance for more information.   

23. Explore the Le Riviere neighborhood

One of the best outdoor activities in Treviso is walking along the Sile River. Found right when you exit the train station, you’ll follow along the fairly flat footpath as you walk into the city center.

Also, be sure to spot a few of the landmarks nearby, like Ponte Dante. The footbridge, named after Dante Alighieri, was mentioned in the author’s Divine Comedy . 

In this area, you can also see the Bastione San Paolo, Altinia Gate, Sphere of Toni Benetton, and the Church of Saint Margherita.

24. Take the train for a day trip from Treviso

As you can see, there are so many museums and activities in Treviso! However, it’s also a great town to base yourself in for day trips around the Veneto region. 

If you’ve been looking around here at The Purposely Lost, you’ll know that I love Venice.

The incredible Lagoon City has been around for over 1,000 years, and it’s filled with some of the most fantastic art and architecture you can find in Italy.

Take a look at my guides on the best things to do in Venice and how to spend 2 days in Venice if you’re interested in planning a stop in this beautiful city.

Padua, Italy, is another stunning city in the Veneto region, making it a highly desirable destination for day-trippers from Treviso.

You can wind your way around the city’s cobblestone streets and admire the impressive frescoes and sculptures of the city’s major landmarks like the Scrovegni Chapel, the Basilica of Saint Anthony, and Prato della Valle.

A visit to Padua’s Botanical Garden is also a must for those looking to get out in nature.

25. Head out for the day into the Prosecco hills

Here in the Veneto, less than an hour north of Treviso, lies the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Prosecco region. 

Although it’s similar in style to Champagne, it uses a different method and can only be produced in this region of Italy. 

From Treviso, you can easily tour the beautiful capital of Prosecco countryside on your own by car or with a guided tour.

You’ll see the rolling hills, lush green valleys, and quaint villages of this stunning region.

Many of the excursions listed will pick you up from Treviso and drop you back off in the city at the end of the day.

This is the top Processo tour that leaves from Treviso ! You’ll send a full day visiting two wineries, exploring the countryside, enjoying excellent views, and tasting wine and other local products.

If you want to read more about the different guided tours into the Prosecco hills, check out my selection of the best wine tours from Venice .

What to do in Treviso, Italy: FAQs

What is in treviso.

1. Explore inside the Cathedral of Treviso 2. Walk around the ancient le Mura di Treviso 3. Walk along the beautiful canals 4. Taste Tiramisù in the city where it was invented 5. Visit the Pescheria 6. See the Fontana delle Tette 7. Visit the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore 8. Admire the Monumento ai Caduti 9. Check out tons of advertising graphics at the Museo Nazionale Collezione Salce 10. See the city on a private walking tour 11. Learn to make fresh pasta and tiramisù in a cooking class 12. Enjoy a performance at the Teatro Mario Del Monaco 13. Explore the Museo Diocesano 14. Visit the Chiesa di San Vito e Santa Lucia 15. Check out a temporary exhibit at Gallerie delle Prigioni 16. Visit the Museo Luigi Bailo 17. Explore the Museo Santa Caterina 18. Check out the Chiesa di San Francesco 19. Admire the Palazzo dei Trecento 20. Stand under the Loggia dei Cavalieri 21. Go shopping in the city center 22. Learn about outer space at the College Pio X Planetarium 23. Explore the Le Riviere neighborhood 24. Take the train for a day trip from Treviso 25. Head out for the day into the Prosecco hills

Is Treviso worth visiting?

Yes, Treviso, Italy is worth visiting! It’s a beautiful city in the Veneto region with its own unique history; however, I wouldn’t spend more than one or two days in Treviso.

What is Treviso known for?

Treviso is known for being the birthplace of the famous Italian dessert, tiramisù, and the home of the United Colors of Benetton flagship store.

Treviso is often called Little Venice due to the number of canals flowing through the historic city center.

It’s also where iconic Italian poet Dante Alighieri went after being exiled from Florence in 1302.

Finally, Treviso is known for its unique position at the foot of the UNESCO-protected Processo hills region.

Is Treviso better than Venice?

Honestly, no; Treviso is not better than Venice.

Although Treviso is less touristy and a beautiful city with its own history, Venice is one of the most famous cities in Italy. It’s world-renown for its canals, art, and architecture.

However, if you have enough time on your Italian itinerary, both Venice and Treviso are worth a visit.

What to see in Treviso, Italy: Wrap-UP

Whether you’re taking a day trip here from Venice or plan to spend several days in the region, there are plenty of things to do in Treviso!

• Can You Swim in Venice, Italy?
• Stunning Instagrammable Places and Photo Spots in Venice, Italy
• Festive Things to do in Bolzano, Italy at Christmas
• Extraordinary Non-Touristy Places to Visit in Italy
• Spectacular Summer Destinations in Italy

You've successfully joined our subscriber list.

You’ll Also Love

Does It Snow in Italy? Your Ultimate Snow in Italy Guide

Become Purposely Lost

I'm Lyndsay! Thank you so much for joining me here at The Purposely Lost.

Latest on Instagram

• Affiliate Disclaimer
• Cookie Policy
• Privacy Policy
• Terms and Conditions
• Accessibility Statement
• United States
• Travel Tips

Copyright © 2024 The Purposely Lost · Theme by 17th Avenue

Copyright © 2024 · Mia On Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in

Privacy Overview

Ultimate Travel Guide for Treviso, Italy

Are you planning a trip to treviso – italy’s city of tiramisu.

This is my ultimate travel guide for Treviso – an Italian hidden gem of a city which most people know of mainly on account of its low-cost airport and proximity to Venice . I wrote this guide to inspire you to visit Treviso and to help you make your travel planning easy, logical, and enjoyable.

Treviso has much to offer to the traveller seeking a crowd-free destination with authentic character, beautiful corners, excellent art, and must-see historic sights. As the birthplace of the famous dessert tiramisu and standing adjacent to Italy’s prosecco-producing area, this small city also has delicious local cuisine.

With centuries-old frescoed houses flanking its streets and a historic centre crisscrossed by water canals, Treviso has a lovely atmosphere. Here you get a chance to delve into the real Italy. On account of its airport which is only a short bus ride away, the city is easy and inexpensive to reach from anywhere in Europe making it the perfect place to visit for a spontaneous city break or a well-planned long weekend.

While most people flying into Treviso head immediately over to Venice , the travel-smart thing is to spend at least one night here. This way you can explore all the beauty, landmarks, and food that Treviso has to offer. And if you decide to stay longer, then you can easily take exciting day trips in the surrounding area where you will find lush nature, medieval walled towns, and some of Italy’s most renowned cities .

So, to help you plan your trip to Treviso, I have researched, photographed, and written this ultimate travel guide. The information in it is organised under several topics. For example:

• Is Treviso worth a visit?
• How to reach Treviso and how to navigate it on foot and by public transport?
• What to eat and where to stay in Treviso?
• Which major landmarks, museums, and churches are a must-see in Treviso?
• What hidden corners to explore in Treviso and what day trips to take from the City of Tiramisu?

There are also maps, practical details, and lots of beautiful photos to give you an idea of what to expect. You will also find the best times to visit Treviso, packing suggestions, and how long you should stay here. I have included links to the best guidebooks for the area, the best tours you can take here, as well as a list of the best things to do in and around Treviso.

If you scroll right down to the end, you will also find five curious facts about this often-overlooked yet exciting, inspiring, and simply beautiful Italian city.

It’s all based on my numerous visits to Treviso and its surroundings over the last twenty years (six of which I spent living an hour away by train ). You can easily scroll up and down this page to focus just on the type of travel details that you need.

Have a look and enjoy your Treviso trip!

The information in this travel guide reflects my first-hand experience. It may contain affiliate links and if you click and make a purchase through them, I may receive a small commission at no cost to you. The ads on this page help me keep this blog free and produce new travel content for you to enjoy. Full details in my  Disclosure .

WHERE IS TREVISO?

Treviso is the fifth largest city in the northeastern Italian region of Veneto . It is the capital of the Province of Treviso and it has just over 85,000 inhabitants. The city stands in the Venetian Plain (in Italian, Pianura veneta ) – an expansive area of flatlands stretching from the Gulf of Venice in the Adriatic Sea to the Venetian Prealps.

The city’s territory is rich in water springs (locally known as fontanassi ) and bodies of water. In fact, Treviso lies at the point where the small river Botteniga splits into several branches (locally known as cagnani ) which then flow into Sile – Europe’s longest karst spring river. 90,49 km in length, it crosses the Venetian Plain and flows into the northern end of the Venetian Lagoon.

The adjacent map shows you the exact location of Treviso in Northeastern Italy. You can click on it to zoom in and out to see further details as well as to calculate travel directions.

With a history that stretches back to ancient times, Treviso has a multilayered architectonic and artistic heritage coupled with a lively program of local events and festivals.

The city’s low-cost airport ranks among the top 20 busiest airports in Italy . It stands right on the outskirts of Treviso. When you arrive, there is quick and easy access by bus into town and then by railway and road to many popular destinations in Italy, most notably Venice which is only about 40 mins away by train and around 1 h away by bus from Treviso.

IS TREVISO WORTH A VISIT?

Treviso is one of Italy’s hidden gems. Its name is very well-known on account of the low-cost airport and yet the city is usually bypassed by the mass of people who fly in here but head directly to Venice .

Don’t make the same mistake! Treviso is an elegant, lively city where you can experience the best that Italy has to offer without suffocating crowds. From canalside views to museums displaying outstanding artworks, from pretty cobbled streets to traditional eateries, Treviso has so much to offer.

The historic centre is very walkable and a pleasure to explore. There is a good number of landmarks to keep you busy over a couple of days without getting overwhelmed or bored. And the well-connected train station gives you plenty of choices for trips in the surrounding area. In less than 20 minutes you can visit historic towns such as Conegliano and Vittorio Veneto . In less than 40 mins you can reach Venice and Padua . And in an hour or so you will be arriving in Vicenza , Bassano del Grappa, and even Udine in the neighbouring region of Friuli Venezia Giulia.

The best thing about Treviso is how relaxed and authentic it is. With Venice succumbing every high season to ever larger crowds, Treviso still preserves its peaceful and quiet character. This smaller Italian city is a gateway to the Italian dolce far niente lifestyle. It really is sweet to do nothing here just walking along the canals, admiring ancient frescoes in imposing churches, and finishing every day with a glorious portion of tiramisu.

WHAT IS THE MEANING OF TREVISO’S NAME?

There are several theories about the origins of the name of the city of Treviso. Here are two of the most widely known ones:

Treviso from Tarvisium – according to some researchers the city was originally founded by the Celtic Taurisci tribe who worshipped Apis – the Egyptian bull god of fertility and the underground. In fact, the Proto-Celtic root tarwo means exactly a bull. In this case, Treviso can be interpreted as the City of the Bull Deity.

Treviso from Tervisus (in English, three views or three faces) – according to this less supported by the experts theory, the name of the city refers to the three original settlements from which Treviso grew. They were located at the spots which nowadays are occupied by Piazza dei Signori , Piazza Duomo , and the parish of Sant’Andrea in town. When in Treviso, try to spot the Fountain of Three Faces ( Fontana dei tre visi ). It stands in front of the Town Hall and it features a male torso with three identical, bearded faces. Alternatively, in the archaeological section of the Museum of Santa Caterina, you can see a small bronze figure of the goddess Hekate represented as a female deity with three heads.

In the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, Treviso was also referred to as the Urbs Picta (in English, Painted City). This was a moniker reserved for Italian cities with lavishly frescoed facades that made the urban environment feel like an open-air art gallery.

Nowadays, Treviso has several newly coined bynames, some of which have a strong marketing persuasion. For example, Little Venice of the Mainland (on account of the city’s numerous canals) and City of Art and Water (due to the outstanding if little-known artworks you can admire here and the abundance of rivers, springs, and canals that give Treviso its character).

BEST AIRPORTS FOR TREVISO

Treviso has its own airport – Treviso Airport Antonio Canova. Its airport code is TSF and its official website is at this link .

This is a small yet busy airport. Many low-cost airlines use it heavily for its proximity to  Venice . Incredibly easy and quick to navigate, Treviso Airport is very close to the historic centre of the city. You just need to take either Treviso AirLink  or  Bus Line 6 .

Buses run at regular intervals. The journey is very swift and takes between 10 and 15 mins. You can get off at the train station – Treviso Centrale – and the historic centre begins just opposite it.

Another option is to fly to Venice Marco Polo Airport. Its airport code is VCE and its official website is at this link . This is a large, busy, and elegant airport that deals with a big number of flights from all over the world all throughout the day. Easy to navigate, Venice Airport has many facilities, numerous shops, and several cafes and eateries.

Getting from Venice Marco Polo Airport to Treviso is not difficult. However, it is a little less straightforward and more time-consuming than getting to Treviso from the city’s own airport.

You can either:

• take bus 15 or bus 45 from Venice Marco Polo Airport to the train station in Mestre. Once there, get a train to the railway station Treviso Centrale. You can check the bus timetables on the ACTV website and the train timetables on either   Omio ,  ItaloTreno , or  TrenItalia .
• book a private transfer .

Have a look at this blog post for more details about travelling between Treviso and Venice:

• 3 Easy Ways to Travel from Treviso to Venice in Italy (With Map and Practical Tips)

HOW TO REACH TREVISO?

Treviso is very easy to reach by railway and road from anywhere in Italy and abroad.

High-speed and regular trains connect Treviso throughout the day to many towns in the region of Veneto and major cities all over Italy. The city is on the Venice-Udine, Venice-Belluno, and Vicenza-Treviso railway lines. You can check timetables and book your tickets on:

• Omio  – which pulls up results for both state-run and private railway companies in Italy;
• TrenItalia  – which covers the state-run train network of Italy.

Here are some sample travel times by train from nearby Venice and other Italian cities to Treviso’s main train station,  Treviso Centrale :

• Venice to Treviso  – from 31 mins;
• Mestre to Treviso – from 18 mins;
• Padua to Treviso  – from 39 mins;
• Vicenza to Treviso  – from 1 h 2 mins;
• Udine to Treviso  – from 1 h 14 mins;
• Belluno to Treviso – from 1 h 25 mins;
• Verona to Treviso  – from 1 h 32 mins.
• Milan to Treviso  – from 2 h 47 mins.

You can drive to Treviso from anywhere in Italy, too. Toll roads (called  autostrada , sing. and  autostrade , pl. in Italian) connect the city to other large Italian cities and smaller towns. Here are the  autostrade  you can use here:

• A27 (known as Autostrada d’Alemagna )   – it runs from Mestre (Venice’s mainland borough) to the Alps and it passes by Treviso.
• A4  (known as La Serenissima ) – it connects Turin to Trieste via Milan and Venice and it passes through the Province of Treviso.
• A28  – a very short toll road which connects some of the smaller towns in the Province of Treviso to the adjacent northeastern Italian region of Friuli Venezia Giulia .

This  useful website  will give you up-to-date information about navigating Italy’s  autostrade , the current traffic conditions, as well as how to calculate and pay the toll fees (called  pedaggio  in Italian).

If you are planning to visit Treviso by car, it is advisable to familiarise yourself with the city’s ZTL (in Italian, zona a traffico limitato) . This is a zone with restricted traffic which covers roughly Treviso’s historic centre. You can traverse it by car only if you have a special dispensation obtained in advance. Otherwise, there are steep fines in place.  This website  provides full information about Treviso’s ZTL, its entry points, limits, and conditions for access. It’s in Italian, so you can use Google Translate to get the gist of the information.

If you have booked accommodation in the historic centre and you are arriving by car, contact your hotel in advance and ask to see if it can provide you with a temporary pass giving you the right to drive within Treviso’s ZTL.

HOW TO NAVIGATE TREVISO?

Treviso is a small city that has grown around its medieval nucleus – the walled centro storico . Crisscrossed by cobbled streets and several canals, the historic centre is best traversed on foot. Distances are short and walkable. All the main sights here are just around the corner from one another.

Walking around historic Treviso is a great way to immerse yourself in the city’s past and appreciate its authentic environment – all frescoed walls, long porticoes, and charming canal views.

The main train station – Treviso Centrale – is next door to the historic centre thus negating any need to get a bus or any other mode of transport if you are in Treviso for the day and want to see the main landmarks.

If you are planning to stay here longer and your accommodation is outside of the historic centre, then you can rely on the local public transport provider – Mobilita di Marca . Consult its website (in Italian, English or French) to see the routes, timetables, and fares. If you need to get a taxi, then this website has the details that you need. It’s in Italian so if need be, you can use Google Translate to get the gist of it.

WHAT TO PACK FOR TREVISO?

The most important thing to pack for a visit to Treviso in any season is a pair of comfortable shoes. There are many cobbled streets and all types of uneven surfaces in the historic centre here. You will also spend time standing up and moving at a variable pace over long periods of sightseeing.

So, make sure that your feet are as comfortable as possible. Choose shoes with a good grip that cushion your heels and support your ankles at all times.

In winter, bring warm layers to stave off the chills produced by the high levels of humidity and yet can be quickly peeled off when the sun makes a not-rare appearance. In summer, bring a hat, sunglasses, and suncream to counteract the bright sunlight that bounces off the large facades and floods the wide piazzas. Invest in fabrics that dry quickly, are crinkle-free, and let your skin breathe through them. It may be a good idea to also pack a bug repellent, albeit a spray, a roll-on or a  bracelet . A rainproof jacket will be handy in autumn when rainy days are plenty.

Even when it’s very hot, make sure that your outfits are appropriate for city living and respectful sightseeing. Shoulders and knees should be covered in Italian churches. In Italy, exceedingly cropped, tight, and/or revealing clothes are not acceptable attire on the street as well as when visiting important landmarks.

BEST TIMES TO VISIT TREVISO

Treviso is a great place to head to in any season. Thanks to its low-cost airport, this small Italian city is easy and inexpensive to reach from anywhere in Europe and the perfect destination for an impromptu weekend break.

As soon as you feel the need for new experiences, delicious foods, and a deep dive into centuries of history and art, Treviso is ready to deliver all this. Plus, without the suffocating crowds which besiege nearby Venice .

As is typical for the whole of Italy, the shoulder seasons – from the end of March to May and then from the end of September to the start of November – are easily the best times of the year to visit Treviso. Expect average temperatures between 18 and 24 degrees Celsius and some rainy days but mainly clear skies. June is the wettest month of Treviso’s year.

Summers are hot and humid. With temperatures above 30 degrees Celsius, you will be grateful that you have chosen Treviso for your city break in Italy, as many of the streets in the historic centre are lined by long porticoes providing shelter from the sun. These long colonnades help you remain in the shadows as you walk around town. Plus, you can always spend the hottest hours of the day inside the city’s cool museums or take a proper Italian riposo .

Winters in Treviso are mild in comparison with most of Europe. The thermometer will fluctuate from 0 to 7-8 degrees Celsius with extremely rare snowfalls. The Christmas season is especially lively. Expect lots of local events, festive markets, an ice skating rink, and heartfelt celebrations.

HOW LONG TO STAY IN TREVISO ?

If you are heading to Treviso for a short city break , then two days are perfect to walk all over town and explore its beautiful historic centre in some detail. The city is compact and its main landmarks are close to one another. You can then spend a third day visiting a nearby city, medieval walled town or beautiful village. For ideas, see the Best Day Trips from Treviso section below.

If you are staying elsewhere in this corner of Italy, Treviso is also a great destination for a day trip. Easy to reach by train and by car from many of the large cities in the regions of Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia , this is a lovely place to explore from morning til dusk.

Alternatively, you may decide to spend a week in Treviso and use it as a base while travelling every day to a nearby city or sight. This is perfect for those who appreciate the advantages of slow travel and want to delve into many of the lesser-known destinations in northeastern Italy.

WHERE TO STAY IN TREVISO ?

There is a nice variety of  places to stay in Treviso  in any season and for any budget.

You can choose a historic  palazzo  that nowadays functions as a luxury hotel. You can opt for a comfortable B&B . Or you may prefer a flat  with a kitchen to enjoy a home-from-home experience.

All in all, Treviso has a great offering in terms of good to excellent quality accommodation with usually much lower prices than those in Venice. This makes this small Italian city a great place to use as a base, especially during the high season.

If your focus is on sightseeing, then consider staying in the historic centre of Treviso. Arriving with heavy luggage? Then a walking distance from the train station Treviso Centrale is best but don’t stay right next to it as it is not very picturesque. Several of the historic streets are cobbled, narrow and/or with limited access for non-resident vehicles. If you are arriving by car, ask your accommodation for a temporary pass allowing you to drive into the city centre or for a safe place to park outside of it.

Here are some suggestions for places to stay in Treviso. All come highly recommended:

Luxury:   Leoni di Collalto Palace , Al Pio Luxury Nest

Mid-Range:   Locanda San Tomaso , MyPlace Treviso Vittoria , Locanda Ponte Dante , Antica Dimora Stucky , Le Camere di Palazzo Bortolan

Budget:  Centro della Famiglia ; Terzopiano ; Ai Bastioni Boutique Hotel

Alternatively, use the map included here to get a quick visual idea of the available accommodation options in Treviso, Italy. You can zoom in and out, type in your specific travel dates, and then click on the different price points for detailed information about the hotel you want to know more about.

In addition, have a look at this blog post which explains the different types of accommodation you can book in Italy. It will give you plenty of ideas to look into for the best and quirkiest places to spend the night here:

• Where to Stay in Italy – 19 Types of Accommodation to Suit Any Budget

WHAT TO EAT IN TREVISO?

Treviso has a lot to offer to those seeking to indulge their taste buds on a trip to Italy. The city is famous as the birthplace of tiramisu, yet that’s not all that Treviso’s cooking.

The locals are particularly proud of their radicchio rosso . This is a type of red chicory. Its crunchy texture and slightly bitter taste lend themselves well to a myriad of local dishes, for example, risotto al radicchio rosso . There are two variants – early ( precoce ) and late ( tardivo ). The late one is more prized. You will recognise it by the shape of its leaves. They look like thick lances that sprout upwards from the chicory’s base and curl together at the top. At the bottom, the leaves are bright white. Their edges at the top are deep-red/almost purple colour. Treviso’s radicchio rosso has a PGI (protected geographical indication) status. This means that it can only be grown in certain places and its qualities are tightly related to that specific place of origin. The plants undergo a complex process of growing in open fields and further maturation in tanks with groundwater. This is what helps them develop their startling white colour and tempers their bitterness.

Bigoli is a type of thick, long round strands of pasta typical for the region of Veneto (of which Treviso is part). Try them with sardines and onions, with duck sauce or with sausage and radicchio . If you are after little-known beyond their point of origin dishes then order some sopa coàda – pigeon meat layered with bread and cheese and drenched with pigeon broth. If you love sliced meats, give sopressa a try. This aged salami is made of pork meat and lard and comes in a garlic-flavoured version, too. Frittura di pesce is perfect for those who love seafood. Expect a mix of battered and fried fish, prawns, and squid usually served with polenta and lightly fried julienned vegetables.

Eat your weight in tiramisu but also leave a bit of space for torta fregolotta – a type of shortbread with a coarse texture. If you want to taste something a bit different, then try pinza – a dense and gloopy cake with rustic origins.

Treat yourself to a glass of excellent prosecco from the nearby Prosecco Hills of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene. Finish it all off with a cup of coffee , expertly served in any small cafe or bar you will walk past in Treviso.

Treviso’s cuisine is explored in excellent detail in the seminal book La Cucina Trevigiana: Storia e Ricette by the renowned culinary expert and writer Giuseppe Maffioli. It’s a great investment for real foodies!

BEST THINGS TO DO IN TREVISO

There are many exciting things to do in Treviso to suit all types of travellers and personalities. If you are looking for a travel experience that is just off the beaten track and makes you feel enriched inside, this small city in the northeast of Italy is a great destination to head to.

In a small amount of time here you can delve into history, architecture, and art and finish it all off with a delicious meal to fondly reminisce over for years to come. Walking through the historic centre – with its frescoed facades and water canals – is already a cultural experience in itself. You will be generously rewarded with beautiful corners to photograph without having to queue or rub shoulders with thousands of other people.

Treviso is one of those places where things happen in a relaxed and easy manner. Where you can walk from one sight to the next without feeling like you have to rush, rush, rush. Where every step reveals another gorgeous detail which peels yet another layer of understanding of how the city developed over the centuries. It is a destination that makes you feel like you have discovered something special and you ask yourself: ‘How did I not know about this place before?’.

Have a look through the headings further down this travel guide. They outline the major landmarks , museums , and churches you can visit in Treviso. In addition, here I have summarised the best things you can do in this small city that has so much to offer:

Sightseeing and Art Appreciation  – Treviso has several must-see museums, historic piazzas, and churches with priceless art. From ancient tribes and Roman artefacts to medieval frescoes and Renaissance masterpieces, here you can come face-to-face with some of the pinnacles in the production of art in this corner of Italy. In the Duomo alone you can see an altarpiece by Titian and frescoes by Pordenone, but Treviso is so much more than simply paying homage to the big names in art. Here you can also see and enjoy masterpieces by lesser-known yet incredibly original Italian painters, starting with Tommaso da Modena and going all the way up to a cohort of artists of the 19th and 20th centuries. Treviso is also the birthplace of many creative minds, so walking around town you can admire the environment which inspired their work. Among them, for example, is Girolamo Trevigi – a Renaissance sculptor and painter who was also the military engineer of the English King Henry VIII.

Eating  – with lush hills carpeted with vineyards and flat stretches of land planted with radicchio , peas, and asparagus, the Province of Treviso offers all the components of a great foodie scene. Local dishes – perfected throughout the centuries – can be enjoyed in a myriad of eateries, from small family-run trattorias to high-class restaurants. Abundant fresh zero km vegetables, a huge selection of cheeses (don’t miss the casatella trevigiana ), fragrant white polenta , and a great variety of freshwater fish make eating in Treviso an unmissable experience. Take every opportunity to savour the local flavours!

Walking and Nature Exploring  – Treviso is a very walkable city, especially its historic centre where you can stroll along the centuries-old defensive walls and the picturesque canals. Right next door to the city, you can also spend time enjoying the paths running through the Regional Park of the River Sile . Here you can find old mills, floating bridges, marshy areas, and even an eerie but very picturesque boat cemetery (in Italian, cimitero dei burci ). You can explore the park on foot, by bike, and by canoe. Right in the park’s heart, you can also visit Oasi Cervara – Sile’s last big swamp and home to rare amphibians and birds (including kingfishers). If you like caves, then head to Grotte di Oliero or Grotte del Caglieron . Both are about an hour away by car from Treviso (albeit in different directions from one another).

Shopping  – Treviso has its fair share of high-street shops and small artisanal boutiques. Perusing their offerings is always a lovely way to while away an hour or two. If you are serious about shopping opportunities in this corner of Italy, head to the Noventa di Piave Designer Outlet. It’s only half an hour away by car from Treviso and has over 150 designer stores.

Day Trips  – Treviso is a great base for exciting day trips in the northern Italian regions of Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia. I have provided specific destinations under the Day Trips and Hidden Gems sections below.

MAJOR LANDMARKS IN TREVISO

Calmaggiore – Treviso’s main street connects the city’s Duomo to the square of Piazza dei Signori . It was first laid in Roman times and its current name is a corruption of the Latin words callis maior or main road. Flanked by imposing historic buildings and numerous shops, it’s a great street to walk up and down to imbibe the local vibe.

Piazza dei Signori – this is Treviso’s expansive main square. It’s flanked by an imposing group of adjacent historic buildings: the gothic  Palazzo dei Trecento (also known as Palazzo della Ragione ), Palazzo del Podesta  with the 13th-century Civic Tower, and  Palazzo Pretorio  with its 17th-century facade.

Piazza Independenza – right next to Piazza dei Signori and separated from it by the Palazzo dei Trecento . Looking at the palazzo from this side, you can see a deep line zigzagging down its wall. It marks the boundary between the original and the restored masonry after the palace was half-destroyed by an Allied Forces bombardment in 1944. A large monument – Monumento ai Cadutti – stands at the heart of this central square. Dedicated to those who gave their lives for the Motherland, the sculptural composition is dominated by a beautiful and dignified lady with a turreted crown on her head and a sword in her hand. While many think that the marble lady is a personification of Italy, others insist that she represents the Province of Treviso. Curiously, she has come to be known as the  Teresona  by the citizens of Treviso.

Both Piazza dei Signori and Piazza Independenza host many lively cafes and are the perfect place for people-watching. Especially in the early evening when trevigiani come out to meet friends and enjoy a stroll known in Italian as la passeggiata . Large events take place here, too throughout the year. From a Carnival parade that attracts people in their thousands to the Tiramisu World Cup, you can enjoy so many unforgettable moments at Treviso’s two main piazzas.

Loggia dei Cavalieri – erected between 1276 and 1277, this rectangular building was the meeting place of Treviso’s noblemen. They would congregate here to discuss the topics of the day and to entertain themselves with music and other such suitable for their time activities. The structure is surrounded on three sides by a sequene of open arches. Its walls are decorated with a cycle of faded frescoes inspired by French epic poems which were very popular among Treviso’s cavalieri . The Roman de Troie which retells the happenings of the Trojan War was particularly well-known, especially as according to one of the local myths, Treviso was founded by a Trojan nobleman. Nowadays, the Loggia dei Cavalieri is sometimes used to hold local events. At certain points in the past, it also functioned as a timber warehouse and even as a funerary shop.

TREVISO AND ITS DEFENSIVE WALLS

Treviso is one of the most beautiful walled towns to visit in this corner of Italy. It was first fortified during Roman times. By the 14th century, it had a massive ring of defensive walls with eleven gates in them. Between 1509 and 1518, however, the walls were significantly remodelled and refortified and the gates were reduced to three. This was done to protect the city from attacks during the War of the League of Cambrai in which Treviso fought on the side of the Republic of Venice.

The walls and the water canals surrounding the city turned it into an impenetrable fortress. Nowadays, you can go for a walk along this defensive perimeter. A portion of it follows a wide path flanked by trees atop a tall embankment. Being up there allows you to enjoy lovely views of urban gardens and green spaces.

As you stroll along, you will walk past the three surviving 16th-century gates. They are:

Porta Altinia – built between 1514 and 1515, this is the oldest of the three gates. It stands near the Treviso Centrale train station.

Monumental Gate of Santi Quaranta – with an architectural outline inspired by the Roman triumphal arch, this Renaissance gate was erected between 1516 and 1517 and replaced an earlier medieval structure. It stands near the Church of Sant’Agnese.

Monumental Gate of San Tomaso – built in 1518, this gate is the most opulent of the three. It is crowned by a statue of St. Paul and decorated with a large bas-relief of the Venetian lion. Curiously, the gate is named after Thomas Becket – the archbishop of Canterbury who was assassinated by the knights of King Henry II inside Canterbury Cathedral. A medieval fresco representing this tragic event which took place in England but reverberated all across Catholic Europe nowadays is preserved in Treviso’s Diocesan Museum

TREVISO AND ITS CANALS

One of the first things you will notice about Treviso is that it’s crisscrossed by wide canals. Water is abundant here and has played an important role in shaping the city’s character. Known as cagnani , Treviso’s canals deserve a special mention in this travel guide.

The word cagnan comes from the contraction of canal and bagnare (in English, to bathe or to wash) and as such it means a canal which bathes the city. Upon reaching the historic centre of Treviso, the River Botteniga splits into three branches at Ponte Pria – a long bridge with seven arches and 16th-century water locks. Locally, these three canals are known as:

Cagnan Grande (also known as Canale della Pescheria ) – 0.7 km long, it’s flanked by some of the most beautiful historic houses in Treviso. At its heart stands a small island where the city’s fish market (or pescheria in Italian) is held in the morning from Tuesday until Saturday. Come early for the freshest catch!

Cagnan Medio (also known as Buranelli ) – 0.71 km long, and flanked by endless porticoes, this canal features in Treviso’s most iconic photos. In the 16th century, merchants from the Venetian island of Burano established a warehouse next to the cagnan , which inspired its moniker Buranelli . Up to the Second World War, this was also where Treviso’s washerwomen would congregate to wash clothes in the canal’s limpid waters.

Roggia (also known as Siletto ) – 1.17 km long. Along this canal, you can see some of Treviso’s medieval houses with their porticoes built over the water. In the past, Treviso’s scorzèri or leather tanners had their workshops alongside the canal.

There are other smaller canals here fed by the River Botteniga, for example, Cantarane . Less than half a km long, nowadays, it’s almost entirely underground.

The canals flow past and underneath the houses in the historic centre. In the Middle Ages, they were part of the hydraulic defences of the city. Nowadays, they make Treviso very picturesque. When in town, follow the canals for pretty views, hidden corners, and the chance to steal glimpses of local life.

BEST MUSEUMS AND ART GALLERIES IN TREVISO

Museum of Santa Caterina – this is an exquisite museum which combines an art gallery and an archaeological division. If you only have time for one major sight in Treviso, let this be your top choice. The museum is housed in a former monastery founded in the 14th century. Its buildings were turned into military barracks after the dissolution of the religious orders in the 18th century. Its renovation and conversion into a museum in the 20th century was spearheaded by the famous Italian architect Carlo Scarpa. From archaeological artefacts to Renaissance and Baroque paintings, the museum collections give you an excellent overview of the historical and cultural trajectories of Treviso. A particular highlight is the medieval cycle of frescoes preserved in the deconsecrated church. Painted by Tommaso da Modena in the 14th century, it explores the hagiography of St. Ursula. I also really loved seeing the artefacts of the Veneti tribes who populated this corner of Italy before the arrival of the ancient Romans. Treviso’s Museum of Santa Caterina often holds large-scale temporary exhibitions, too.

The Luigi Bailo Museum – this is the perfect destination for you if you have a special interest in Italy’s modern art. One of the highlights of the collection is the series of works by Arturo Martini – a prominent Italian sculptor of the 20th century. The museum is housed in a former 15th-century monastery and it is named after its founder, Luigi Bailo. A local man of the cloth, his love for the arts fomented Treviso’s cultural life between the 19th and the 20th centuries.

Galleria delle Prigioni – housed in a former Habsburg prison, this art gallery was created to exhibit the art collection Imago Mundi of Luciano Benetton, founder of the Benetton fashion house and native of Treviso. The large building stands right opposite the Duomo. It also hosts temporary exhibitions, however, it is temporarily closed.

Diocesan Museum of Sacred Art – a small but interesting repository of ancient Roman artefacts, medieval frescoes, Renaissance textiles and works of art, as well as religious items and vestments. The museum is in a 12th-century building next door to Treviso’s Duomo. It has limited opening hours and at present, you need to contact it in advance to book your visit.

Ca’ da Noal , Ca’ Robegan and Casa Karwath – hosting temporary exhibitions, these historic houses also represent three typical for Treviso architectural styles. As such, Ca’ da Noal is late Venetian Gothic, Ca’ Robegan has a Renaissance facade with frescoed details, and Casa Karwath is neoclassical.

MUST-SEE CHURCHES IN TREVISO

Just like every Italian city and town, Treviso is dotted with churches of different sizes and varying architectures. Here are the main ones and some hidden gems. All of them preserve not just excellent collections of religious art but also a myriad of local stories and traditions.

Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle (Duomo) – from its Romanesque crypt to its imposing neoclassical facade, this enormous church represents a patchwork of architectural styles. It has seven domes and several chapels. Of these, particularly well-known is the Capella del Malchiostro – which houses frescoes by Pordenone and an Annunciation by Titian. The bodies of St. Liberalis (patron of Treviso) and St. Parisius are enshrined in the cathedral.

Church of San Nicolo’ – tall, imposing, and made of brick, this is an immense church first erected in the 13th century. Among its many artistic treasures is a 14th-century cycle of frescoes by Tommaso da Modena. It depicts 40 Dominican saints and scholars. Among them is Cardinal Hugh of Saint-Cher who is shown wearing spectacles – the first depiction of eyeglasses in the history of art.

Church and Convent of San Francesco – it was founded in the 13th century by monks sent to Treviso by St. Francis of Assisi. This imposing brick building has a simple facade and streamlined structure – a prime example of the late Romanesque/early Gothic styles. Inside you can see the remnants of medieval frescos as well as the tombs of  Petrarch’s  daughter Francesca and  Dante’s  son Pietro. After the Fall of the Republic of Venice in 1797, the church was used as a stable and storeroom first by Napoleon’s army and then by the Austrian troops.

Churches of Santa Lucia and San Vito – my favourite churches in Treviso! They are on the back of Piazza dei Signori and yet so very easy to miss right next to the city’s major landmarks. The Church of Santa Lucia has a beautifully frescoed vaulted ceiling. It’s quite poetic to see it illuminated by the flickering light of the candles.

HIDDEN GEMS IN AND AROUND TREVISO

Here are five hidden gems to enjoy discovering for yourself in and around Treviso. If you have the chance to see one or more of them, let me know in a comment below. Also, share with me any other secret corners and exciting discoveries you may make during your stay in this beautiful northern Italian city.

Late Antique Mosaic – next door to Treviso’s Duomo and Diocesan Museum, there is a small courtyard where you can admire the remains of a large circular mosaic from the Late Antiquity. Look closely at it and you will see small Cupids picking grapes as well as a female head which represents the season of autumn. It is thought that the mosaic was originally part of the floor decoration of a large patrician house which later on was transformed into an early Christian baptistery.

Fontana delle Tette – this is a rather curious sight in Treviso. It represents the upper half of the naked body of a woman. Her breasts would spurt streams of red and white wine for three days every time the city had a new podestà or ruler. The tradition started in 1559 and went on until the Fall of the Republic of Venice (of which Treviso was part) in 1797. As the symbol of the former rule, the fountain was badly mutilated by the invading Napoleonic troops. The original is now preserved behind protective glass inside the portico of the Palazzo dei Trecento . In 1989, a private citizen of Treviso commissioned the Peruvian sculptor Manuel Miranda to make a copy using Istrian stone. It was installed in a small courtyard – the Galleria della Strada Romana – where nowadays the fountain figure’s breasts produce streams of water.

Teatro Mario del Monaco – if you are staying in Treviso overnight, you can enjoy a performance in this beautiful Italian theatre and opera house. Its history stretches back to the 17th century. If you click on the link and scroll down to the end of the page, you can enjoy a virtual tour of the theatre’s splendid environment.

Tipoteca – about 30 km away from Treviso, discover Italy’s most important museum dedicated to the art of printing and typography. Here you can see ancient printing machines, consult over 5,000 books in the on-site library, and take part in a workshop helping you develop skills in fields such as typesetting, letterpress printing, and bookbinding.

Possagno – just over 40 km away from Treviso, stands a small village guarding some of the grandest buildings on this side of Italy. All of them are united by the creative genius of Antonio Canova – the most renowned neoclassical Italian sculptor. Put a few hours aside to explore his birth house, Gypsotheca , and final resting place in the Tempio Canoviano in Possagno. You can also combine it with a visit to nearby Asolo and/or Castelfranco Veneto.

BEST GUIDED TOURS IN AND AROUND TREVISO

Booking a guided tour in and around Treviso with a reputed tour guide or travel company is a shortcut to getting to know on many different levels this exciting and often overlooked Italian city and its surroundings. It’s like stepping through a secret door to discover Treviso’s best corners, hidden gems, delicious food and prosecco which otherwise may be difficult to come across one by one on your own.

If you are short of time, want to experience things in a lively company or simply want to hear local authentic stories from the people who know them, a guided tour or an organised activity could be a great way to enjoy even more your stay in Treviso.

Here are some of the best and most highly recommended tours to take in Treviso organised by category:

• Sightseeing:   Treasure Hunt ‘Blood Red Love’ ,
• Food: Pasta and Tiramisu Class , Dining Experience at a Local’s Home , The Art of the Italian Aperitivo , Street Food Tour in Treviso
• Prosecco and Wine Tasting:  Prosecco Tasting in Valdobbiadene , Tour and 3 Wines Tasting in the Prosecco Hills , Prosecco Hills Tour with Wine Tasting and Lunch , Private Prosecco Tour All Inclusive

Alternatively, select directly local tours and activities in Treviso on  GetYourGuide ,  Viator , and  Tiqets .

If you prefer a custom-made tour for you and your travel companions, then you can contact one of the official tour guides of the Province of Treviso to see how they can meet your requirements.

BEST DAY TRIPS FROM TREVISO

Treviso is a great base for explorations of the northeastern corner of Italy. If you choose to spend more than a couple of days in this beautiful small city, make sure that you venture out to visit both world-famous destinations and little-known hidden corners of natural beauty and historic importance.

From cities of art to the gateway to the Dolomites, from medieval walled towns to the UNESCO-inscribed Prosecco Hills, Treviso offers quick access to many of the most authentic places of Italy which remain off the beaten track. Here is a shortlist:

Cities of Art – Venice but also Padua , Vicenza , Pordenone, and Udine are only a short train ride away from Treviso. All five cities have a lot to offer to the lover of history and art and have exceedingly beautiful historic centres.

Medieval Walled Towns – Asolo, Castelfranco Veneto, Cittadella , Conegliano, Portogruaro, and Serravalle are only some of the beautiful historic towns a short drive away from Treviso. Nestled in the lush countryside, they offer unexpectedly rich lists of things to do coupled with excellent cuisine and artistic heritage. Check this blog post for more small-town destinations to visit from Treviso: 31 Prettiest Small Towns in Veneto, Italy

Prosecco Hills – carpeted with vineyards producing award-winning prosecco, this beautiful area of softly undulating hills is as pretty as a picture. Visit from Treviso by car or by organised tour to find out why it was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2019. Alternatively, get the train from Treviso to the town of Conegliano at the heart of the prosecco-producing area and enjoy a glass after visiting the splendid local sights.

Dolomites – by car, Treviso is only about an hour away from Belluno – a city known as the Gateway to the Dolomites. Once there, you can explore its hilltop historic centre before heading out of town for a nice hike or a visit to a nearby lake in the majestic mountain range. Have a look at this blog post for ideas: Cadini del Brenton and Cascate della Soffia – An Easy Hike Near Lake Mis in the Dolomites, Italy

Seaside Destinations – in about an hour by car you can reach several seafront towns and beach resorts from Treviso. Among them are Jesolo, Eraclea, and Caorle. Take your pick on a sunny day when you feel like a swim in the Adriatic Sea.

WHAT TO BUY FOR A TRIP TO TREVISO

BEST TRAVEL GUIDES FOR VENETO AND ITALY

5 CURIOUS FACTS ABOUT TREVISO

1. The famous fashion house Benetton was founded in 1965 in the Province of Treviso. The Benetton family maintains close connections to the city and among other things sponsors the Treviso rugby team.

2. The patron of Treviso is St. Liberalis (in Italian, San Liberale ). Born in the 4th century in a noble family, he was a Roman soldier who converted to Christianity. As such, he opposed the Arian heresy and towards the end of his life became a hermit. His relics are enshrined in Treviso’s Duomo, where you can also see him depicted in frescos and as a marble statue. A silver sculpture of the saint is also preserved in the city’s Diocesan Museum. Still on the topic of religion, two of the Popes of the Catholic Church hailed from the Province of Treviso. One is Pope Benedict XI who was born in the city of Treviso in 1240. The other is Pope Pius X – born in 1835 in the small town of Riese (nowadays known as Riese Pio X) about 30 km away from Treviso.

3. Treviso has a curious connection to Dante . The great Italian poet stayed in the town – then ruled by the feudal lord Gherardo III da Camino – after Dante was exiled from Florence in 1302. Gherardo’s palatial house stood at the same spot where nowadays you can visit the Museum of Santa Caterina. Dante was so grateful to his host that he even mentioned Gherardo and his daughter Gaia – a renowned poetess – in his Divine Comedy, one of the world’s greatest pieces of literature. A mention was also made of one of Treviso’s bridges as the point where the Cagnan Grande flows into the River Sile. Nowadays, the locals call this particular bridge Ponte Dante and there is a small monument next to it commemorating the Divine Comedy mention.

4. From the 13th century onwards, Treviso was known as the Urbs Picta – the Painted City. This was on account of the splendid frescoes that decorated the numerous palaces and porticoes here. Nowadays, you can see the remnants of these once glorious pictorial decorations. Although quite faded and cracked in places, they still give you a good idea of how resplendent Treviso must have been during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. Have a look at this map which documents the painted houses in the historic centre. It may give you many ideas for places you simply need to see in town.

5. In the past, the water provided by Treviso’s canals was used to operate several watermills. They were a major provider of flour for the Republic of Venice, helping to feed the 150,000 people who lived in the Venetian Lagoon. Walking around town nowadays, you will see large paddle wheels installed next to several historic houses. This is a picturesque throwback to the days when the mills were instrumental in Treviso’s economy. Several of these wheels stand along the Cagnan Grande . For example, you may spot them near the Isola della Pescheria and the Church of San Francesco.

MORE INFORMATION ABOUT TREVISO AND VENETO

If you are considering a trip to Treviso in particular and the Northern Italian region of Veneto in general, you may want to also have a look at the following categories and posts on my blog:

• Veneto  – a full list of all my blog posts about this must-see region in Italy
• Top 15 Places to Visit in Veneto, Italy
• 15 Reasons to Visit Veneto, Italy Beyond Its Capital Venice
• 10 Cities of Venice and Veneto to Visit in Italy and What to See in Each
• 31 Prettiest Small Towns in Veneto, Italy
• 8 Most Beautiful Villages to Visit in Veneto
• 30 Days of Adventures in Veneto, Italy
• 15 Most Colourful Places in Veneto
• Gorgeous Lakes in Veneto

They are based on my first-hand experience of visiting these destinations in Italy and provide lots of practical information to help you plan your travels.

In addition, for the most up-to-date information about events and local sights, keep an eye on the official tourist information websites of  Treviso and the  Region of Veneto .

MORE INFORMATION ABOUT ITALY

I have been blogging about travel in Italy for almost ten years now providing detailed and first-hand tried and tested information about the best things to do in this beautiful country. It’s all based on my close to twenty years of visiting Italy solo and with my family. Six of them, we actually spent living in  Vicenza  in the  north of the country .

If you are after meticulously researched and illustrated with dozens of original photos articles about Italy, have a look at the following categories and blog posts:

• Italy  – a full list of all my blog posts about Italy
• 10 Reasons to Visit Northern Italy
• Lombardy , Trentino ,  Emilia Romagna ,  Marche , Umbria  – full lists of all my blog posts about these Italian regions
• Venice ,  Naples , Padua ,  Lake Garda ,  Lake Como ,  Milan  – detailed travel guides and full lists of all my blog posts about these must-see destinations in Italy.

In addition, right at the end of this travel guide for Treviso, you will find a list with links to my most popular blog posts about many beautiful and exciting cities, towns, and regions to visit in Italy. So, just scroll down and then click on the ones you want to know more about.

Finally, Italy’s  official tourism website  is a great source of the latest news about travel in Italy. Otherwise,  this is one  of the best guidebooks about Italy.

THANK YOU FOR READING!

Have a look also at my ultimate travel guides for Venice , Naples , Lake Como , and Lake Garda .

For more useful information like this, please, like my blog’s page on  Facebook  and Instagram and  subscribe  to my strictly no-spam newsletter.

Email address:

TRAVEL TOOLS

Get ready for your trip to treviso in italy.

Get a guidebook from Amazon. Buy plane tickets , train tickets , and bus tickets through Omio. Research accommodation on Booking.com. Select local tours and activities on GetYourGuide , Viator , and Tiqets .

EVEN MORE HELPFUL INFO ABOUT ITALY FOR YOU

Best of Italy:  Italian Piazzas ,  Italian Markets ,  Accommodation for Every Budget ,  Best Times to Visit Italy ,  Italy in Summer ,  Italy with Kids Italian Food:  Best Italian Food Gifts ,  Cheap Italian Food ,  Rules of Italian Breakfast ,  Italian Breakfast Foods Italian Coffee:  Italian Coffee Culture ,  Italian Coffee Drinks ,  History of Coffee in Italy Christmas in Italy:   Fun Facts ,  Things to Do ,  Italian Nativity Scenes ,  Panettone ,  Christmas Guide Northern Italy:  Best Cities to Visit ,  Major Airports ,  Reasons to Visit Lake Como:   Ultimate Travel Guide ,  Best Towns ,  Best Things to Do ,  How to Get to Lake Como ,  Milan to Lake Como ,  Best Airports ,  Photos of Lake Como Lake Garda:   Ultimate Travel Guide ,  Best Towns ,  Desenzano del Garda ,  Lazise ,  Riva del Garda ,  Malcesine ,  Torri del Benaco ,  Punta di San Vigilio ,  Campo di Brenzone ,  Borghetto and Valeggio sul Mincio ,  Map of Lake Garda ,  Getting Around Lake Garda ,  Lake Garda with Kids ,  8 Best Airports ,  Venice to Lake Garda ,  Verona to Lake Garda ,  Milan to Lake Garda ,  Bologna to Lake Garda Venice:  Ultimate Travel Guide ,  Essential Tips ,  Things to Do ,  Major Landmarks ,  Hidden Gems ,  How to Navigate Venice ,  Venice in a Day for Art Lovers ,  Train Stations ,  Nearest Airports ,  Best Tours ,  Beaches of Venice ,  Quotes about Venice ,  Boats in Venice ,  Haunted Venice ,  Day Trips from Venice ,  Arco del Paradiso Verona:  Things to Do in One Day ,  Verona Opera Festival ,  Day Trips from Verona ,  Romeo and Juliet Itinerary ,  Verona to Venice ,  Verona to Milan Padua:  Things to Do in One Day ,  101 Facts About Padua ,  10 Reasons to Visit Padua ,  Day Trips from Padua Vicenza:  Things to Do ,  Day Trips from Vicenza ,  Best Museums ,  The Beauty of Vicenza Veneto:  Top Places to Visit ,  Unique Adventures ,  Most Colourful Places ,  Mysterious Places ,  Most Beautiful Lakes ,  Reasons to Visit ,  Main Cities ,  Prettiest Small Towns ,  Most Beautiful Villages Lombardy:   Best Cities and Towns ,  Reasons to Visit ,  Brescia Friuli Venezia Giulia:   Venzone ,  Most Beautiful Villages Emilia Romagna:  Bologna ,  Ravenna ,  Comacchio ,  Most Beautiful Villages Marche:   Reasons to Visit ,  Gradara ,  Frasassi Caves ,  Temple of Valadier Umbria:   Reasons to Visit Perugia Campania: Naples Travel Guide

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

7 Amazing Things To Do in Treviso Italy (+ the Treviso Food Not To Miss!)

Sharing is caring!

Located just a few miles north of Venice, Treviso is a hidden gem in the Veneto region. With a network of flowing canals and arched bridges, Treviso is affectionately known as little Venice.  Although Treviso does have some of the charm of Venice, the city has a lot less tourists. However, Treviso’s attractions extend beyond beautiful buildings in Treviso old town. There are plenty of things to do in Treviso – such as quality shopping in Treviso, great Treviso restaurants and delicious Treviso food. It’s definitely time for Treviso to come out from the shadow of its more famous neighbor!

Treviso History

Treviso started off as the Roman town “Tarvisium” before coming under the control of the Republic of Venice in the 14th century. Treviso’s ties to Venice lasted until the end of the 18th century and the Venetians conceding to Napoleon. The French didn’t last long before the Austrians took control and eventually Treviso became part of the Republic of Italy.

From the imposing defensive walls to the elaborate cathedrals and churches, Treviso history is mostly tied to its time in the Venetian Republic. The city you see today has been restored after having been heavily damaged by bombing during World War 2.

The lion of Venice marks the importance of the neighboring city in Treviso history.

Treviso registered on American travelers minds due to the enormous popularity of John Grisham’s 2005 book, The Broker. The main character spends 4 days in Treviso before heading off to Bologna, Italy .

7 Cool Things to Do in Treviso

The charming and compact historic center of Treviso old town tends to get overshadowed by its more famous neighbor, Venice.

Treviso Duomo

Visiting the historic Treviso Duomo with its 7 giant domes is one of the best things to do in Treviso. Although the Treviso Cathedral dates back to the 6 th  century, the current Neoclassical structure with giant green domes and stone columns exists just from 1768.

The 19th century neoclassical facade of the Treviso Duomo belies the fact that there has been a church here since the 6th century.

Some of the highlights inside the Treviso cathedral a Titian altarpiece, an unfinished bell tower, and a crypt from the 11th-century containing the remains of past bishops. You can also stop by the neighboring Museo Diocesano to view more artwork, relics, and artifacts related to the cathedral.

City Walls and Gates

The inner city of Treviso is surrounded by 2.5 miles of Venetian brick wall. As the Venetian Republic’s first important mainland outpost, Treviso needed defending from invaders. The city walls and gates worked so well, Treviso was never invaded.

Things to see in Treviso include the elaborate city gate – check out the lions of Venice front and center!

There are three gates surrounding Treviso old town from the 15th century.

• Porta San Tommaso is located on the North side of the city and honours St. Thomas Becket, Archbishop of Canterbury, murdered after a conflict with Henry II, King of England.
• Porta Santi Quaranta is located on the west side of the city and has a giant winged lion, the marker for the city of Venice.
• Porta Altinia is located on the south side of the city and served as the main entrance to and from Venice.

Fontana delle Tette

One of the most unique things to see in Treviso is the Fontana delle Tette which is a marble statue of a woman squeezing her big bosom While today’s version has water pouring from her nipples, the previous incarnation had wine flowing.

Every year for three days, the Treviso fountain would spout forth red and white wine from each breast, respectively, to celebrate the appointment of the chief magistrate of Venice. Obviously the local citizens were delighted with free wine!

The Fontana delle Tette is a famous Treviso fountain.

The original was built in 1559 by the mayor and can be seen in neighbouring Palazzo dei Trecento. The Fontana delle Tette statue functioning today is a copy from 1989.

Location: A small courtyard near Calle del Podesta 

Piazza dei Signori Treviso

At the heart of Treviso, Piazza dei Signori is a city square lined with ornate palaces and buildings the has been at the heart of Treviso’s government for centuries. Along the perimeter of the square, you’ll find the Palazzo del Podesta and the municipal library and gallery.

Among the Treviso things to do, you simply have to spend time at the Piazza dei Signori. There are also numerous cafes and restaurants where you can grab a coffee or bite to eat and watch daily life pass by.

Treviso tourist information is located on Piazza Monte di Piet which is located right behind the Treviso Piazza del Signori.

Historic Treviso City Center

The historic Treviso City Center is a delight to explore. Stroll around the network of canals and connecting bridges of Treviso old town while admiring the surrounding medieval buildings. With charming piazzas, stone palaces, and winding cobblestone alleys, you can easily spend an entire day getting lost in the beautiful Treviso old town.

The historic Treviso city center is a traffic limited area which makes walking around enjoyable. You can still spot some of the frescoes on the buildings fading gently in the Italian sun that give the city its other nickname, Painted City.

Some other cool things to see in Treviso:

• Adjoining the Treviso Piazza dei Signori, the Palazzo dei Trecento was built in the 12th century and housed the city’s council of 300 men.
• Dating from the 12th century, the towers of Treviso were used for strategic purposes, such as the Municipal Tower on the Palazzo del Podesta.
• Piazza Indipendenza is easily spotted as the location of the Benetton flagship store. There is a marble statue dedicated to the local patriots who died in the war of independence that ended Austrian rule in the region in order to join the newly-formed Italy.
• Chiesa di San Francesco is a Romanesque church from the 13th century. Napoleon’s troops used it to stable their horses continuing that humiliating idea of s stabling your horses in your enemies’ church . Now restored, the church has tombs of the children of two important Italian writers, Dante and Petrarch.
• Chiesa di San Nicolò is another 13th century church which shows off an interesting mix of Romanesque and Gothic influences.
• Monte di Pieta is a 15th century pawnshop located in Chiesa di Santa Lucia. Operated by Franciscan Friars, the pawnshop gave low cost loans to the city’s poor who would otherwise have to use Jewish moneylenders.

Things to see in Treviso includes Piazza Indipendenza which has a statue commemorating the war of independence against Austria.

Treviso Fish Market

In the mid-19th century, the Treviso fish market was relocated to its current location on the Isola della Pescheria, an island in the Cagnan river. The fishmongers came from the island of Burano in Venice. Check out the Little Mermaid statue that reminded us of the more famous Little Mermaid in Copenhagen.

In Treviso Italy, things to do including the Treviso fish market

Even today, the fish and seafood stalls at Treviso Fish Market are a hub of action. Like at the Rialto Market in Venice, you can find the vegetable sellers nearby and all the action happens in the morning.

Canals and Water Mills

You can see why Treviso also has the nickname, City of Water. Unlike Venice, the canals of Treviso have flowing water from a river source.

The canals had water wheels which operated the mills in Treviso. The water wheels are still in operation as well even though they are no longer producing bread for the region.

The most picturesque Treviso canal is  the canale dei Buranelli, named after a family of merchants from the Venetian island of Burano who lived here in the 16th century. One of the most picturesque spots is a stone ledge where the local women would wash their laundry.

At the end of this beautiful canal you can see the ledge where local women would do their washing in historic times.

Shopping in Treviso

Not only is Treviso a prosperous little city with locals who have disposable income, the area is also the world headquarters for several multinational brands such as Benetton, Sisely, Stefanel, (clothes) Geox (shoes), De Longhi (appliances) and Pinarello (bicycles).

Shopping in Treviso is a cheaper and more pleasurable experience than touristy Venice. While you won’t get your cheap Venetian knick-knacks (which are all made in China anyway), you will find quality Italian goods, including Murano glass.

The flagship Benetton store in Treviso city center highlights one of the other things to do in Treviso Italy – shopping!

Via Calmaggiore is the main Treviso shopping area and runs between the Piazza dei Signori and the Treviso Duomo. Here, you’ll find an array of international brands, luxury Italian shops, and independent retailers.

While exploring Treviso shopping delights, we found our favourite Italian chocolates – Venchi – on this street and Dassie Gelateria nearby. Since Dassie is supposed to have the best gelato in Treviso (and in 2018 got awarded best gelato in Italy), we had to give it a try! Verdict? YUM.

Treviso Food and Wine

As anyone will tell you, a part of living the good life involves culinary delights. In Treviso food culture is also highly evolved and exceptional.

Treviso Food Specialties

Treviso lettuce is known as radicchio, red with a bitter taste. Note there are two types of radicchio, both the Treviso kind and the Castelfranco kind – a yellow radiccio with red flecks created in the 17th century from Treviso radicchio.

Treviso lettuce is distinctively red and known as radicchio

From the Treviso region, there are also chestnuts, white and green asparagus and several cheeses made from cow’s milk ( Casatella Trevigiana (soft), Ubriaco (crumbly), Montasio (crumbly) and Bastardo del Grappa (semi-firm).

Restaurants in Treviso has several famous dishes reflecting the bounty of its countryside such as

• pasta with radicchio
• pasta with beans ( pasta e fasioi )
• risotto with radicchio
• risotto with peas
• risotto rosoline (with poppy leaves)
• pigeon meat and bread soup ( sopa coada )
• marinated herrings with onions; and
• asparagus with hard-boiled eggs.

Treviso also lays claim to Prosecco and Tiramisu (both of which are also claimed by neighbouring Italian province, Friuli Venezia Giulia). When we were in Tolmezzo, we heard them say they invented tiramisu. Anyway, there is actually is a town called Prosecco in Friuli Venezia Giulia (that  no longer produces prosecco).

Although Tiramisu is the most popular Italian dessert in the world, it was only invented in the 1960’s  in Treviso at the Le Beccherie restaurant. Tiramisu shot to fame after the 1993 movie, Sleepless in Seattle , when the Tom Hanks character asks what it is.

Many Treviso restaurants serve Tiramisu, including the one where it was supposedly created.

The French have their assorted types of champagne , the Spanish have cava as their sparkling white wine. Thanks to the Italians we know what prosecco is – an Italian sparkling white wine. The difference between the champagne and prosecco wines is how they get their sparkle.

Most prosecco is either bubbly or fizzy. Italians drink prosecco at any time unlike elsewhere where it is considered an aperitif.

The Prosecco Hills of Conegliane and Valdiobbiadene have achieved a coveted UNESCO world heritage status since 2019.  This particular area is supposed to produce the highest quality of prosecco. The equivalent of the Grand Cru of the region is from Cartizze.

From Treviso to Valdobbiadene, the official capital of prosecco, there are vineyards aplenty if you want to go taste testing.

Treviso Restaurants

Toni del Spin  ( 7 Via Inferiore ) is a trattoria that has been around since 1880 but there’s nothing old fashioned about this place. The menu changes daily reflecting seasonal products. Definitely check out the risotto al radicchio at Toni del Spin Treviso which is one of their popular dishes. The prosecco is supplied by the Daldin family.

Ristorante da Pino  ( 23 Piazza dei Signori ) is a family-friendly restaurant that has been serving pasta and pizza since 1972. Ther are a couple of locations but the Piazza dei Signori can’t be beat for people-watching.

Treviso Italy restaurants are also known for their fish dishes despite not being near the coast. Small Antico Morer ( 28 Via Jacopo Riccati ) is highly regarded for its fish and seafood which the chef sources from the Pescheria.

Le Beccherie  ( 9 Piazza  Ancilloto ) claims to have invented tiramisu in the 1960s.  It fulfils two of my main requirements for Treviso restaurants:  canal side seating and a well-regarded Tiramasu.

Just imagine sitting canal side eating delicious Treviso food at one of the many Treviso Italy restaurants

Signore e Signori  ( 10 Piazza dei Signori ) is a centrally located coffeeshop great for coffee and pastries.

Bar Beltrame  ( 27 Piazza dei Signori) is located nearby our other fave, Signor e Signori. With similar prime people watching opportunities, Bar Beltrame offers drinks and sandwiches as well.

Treviso Hotels Italy

There are plenty of hotels in Treviso Italy thanks to all of the business travellers who come to the city. If you are looking for stylish and charming hotels, Treviso Italy presents more of a challenge.

We’ve focused on hotels in Treviso old town which is the prettiest area to stay in the city. The downside with going for charm in the Treviso hotels scene though is that these Treviso hotels are on the smaller side.

Maison Matilda  ( 44 via Jacopo Riccati ) is a boutique Treviso hotel near the Piazza Duomo. Although this small hotel has only 6 rooms, they are impeccably styled – modern and neutral in a traditional setting. There’s no bar or restaurant at Maison Matilda Treviso but it is down the street from Antico Morer mentioned above.

Make it easy on yourself! – Check out the great TripAdvisor reviews of Maison Matilda !

Compare rates for your dates for Maison Matilda through Booking[dot]com !

Palazzina 300  ( 8 Piazza dei Signori ) is another small hotel in Treviso Italy with 7 modern rooms set in a traditional building (15th century). Some of the rooms even have a view of Piazza dei Signori.

Make it easy on yourself! – Check out the great TripAdvisor reviews of Palazzina 300 !

Compare rates for your dates for Palazzina 300 through Booking[dot]com !

Locanda San Tomaso ( 5 Viale Burchialetti ) is a 3 room bed and breakfast near San Tomaso gate in old town Treviso. There is a family room at Locanda San Tomaso Treviso that can take up to 4 guests.

Make it easy on yourself! – Check out the great TripAdvisor reviews of Locanda San Tomaso !

Compare rates for your dates for Locanda San Tomaso through Booking[dot]com !

La Loggia Al Duomo ( 27 Piazza Duomo ) is a luxury apartment for up to 6 people. Perfect for a family, there is also a kitchen, living room, 2 bedrooms, laundry facilities and a large terrace overlooking the Duomo.

Make it easy on yourself! – Check out the great TripAdvisor reviews of La Loggia Al Duomo !

Compare rates for your dates for La Loggia Al Duomo through Booking[dot]com !

Getting To/From Treviso

Treviso Centrale station is served by Trenitalia with connections to any nearby city you may want to visit such as Venice, Padua, Vicenza, Verona, Udine and Trieste.

For example Venice-Treviso is only about a half-hour train ride away whereas  Treviso to Trieste takes about 2 1/2 hours Both destinations have numerous trains during the day.

By Airplane

Treviso Airport is a hub for low-cost airlines, notably Ryanair, who use Treviso as a cheap alternative for getting to Venice . We can never recommend Ryanair because we consider them a last-choice resort to be avoided at all costs.

We travelled via British Airways to Venice’s Marco Polo Airport which was less than 1/2 hour away by car. You can also take a shuttle bus to Treviso from Treviso airport.

Treviso sightseeing involves lots of walking around the historic Treviso old town.

Venice – Treviso

Treviso to Venice (and vice versa) is one of the easiest day trips in the area.

How far is Treviso from Venice?

The Treviso to Venice distance is approximately 16-miles. The Treviso to Venice by train which makes it one of the best day trips from Venice .

How to get to Treviso from Venice?

For those making a day trip from Venice, Italy, the most affordable transportation option is to take the train from Treviso to Venice. The Treviso to Venice train (and vice versa) only costs a few Euros. Once you arrive at the Treviso Centrale station, it’s just a five-minute walk to the gate of Treviso old town.

You can see how closely located Venice – Treviso (and their respective airports) are.

It’s also possible to hire a private taxi to take you from Treviso to Venice. Although the taxi is a quieter and more relaxing way to travel from Treviso to Venice, the 40-minute journey can cost upwards of 80 Euros each way.

We drove from Treviso to Venice Airport, dropped off the car and took a Venice water taxi into the city.

SPREAD THE WORD! PIN THIS TO YOUR TRAVEL PINTEREST BOARDS FOR FUTURE REFERENCE! 

7 amazing things to do in Treviso Italy | Treviso City | Treviso things to do | Treviso Italy travel | Treviso Italy Map | Treviso Italy Restaurants | Treviso Italy Hotels | Treviso Italy Architecture | Europe | Travel Destinations | Family Friendly | Travel with Kids | Vacation | Budget | Luxury | Wanderlust | Things to Do and See | Culture | Tourism | Italy Foodie Travel | foodie travel Europe | travel for foodies | Travel Destinations for foodies | places to travel for foodies | Treviso food

We did not receive compensation of any form, monetary or otherwise, from any of the products, services, hotels etc mentioned in this article.

This site generates income via partnerships with carefully-curated travel and lifestyle brands and/or purchases made through links to them at no extra cost to you. More information may be found on our Disclosure Policy.

Quick Links

Applicable policies.

• Disclosure Policy
• Privacy Policy
• Cookie Policy
• Accessibility Policy

Privacy Overview

• Media/Press Kit
• South Africa
• The Philippines
• The Netherlands
• United Kingdom

Top Things to Do in Treviso, Italy

Places to visit in treviso, explore popular experiences, tours in and around treviso.

Prosecco Hills Tour with Wine Tasting & Lunch from Venice Treviso

• Prosecco experience. Wine tasting. Full day from Treviso

Tiramisù cooking class and tasting in Treviso

Private Half Day Cooking Class at a Cesarina’s Home in Treviso

Cesarine: Small group Pasta and Tiramisu class in Treviso

Venice In a Day: Basilica San Marco, Doges Palace & Gondola ride

Legendary Venice St. Mark's Basilica with Terrace Access & Doge's Palace

Venice: St.Mark's Basilica & Doge's Palace Tour with Tickets

Venice: Grand Canal by Gondola with Commentary

Murano & Burano Islands Guided Small-Group Tour by Private Boat

Tours & sightseeing.

Top Attractions in Treviso

Other Top Attractions around Treviso

Food, Wine & Nightlife

What travellers are saying

• Centro Storico di Treviso
• Passeggiata lungo la restera
• I Buranelli
• Piazza dei Signori
• Passeggiata Lungo il Fiume Sile
• La Strada Ciclabile Treviso-Ostiglia
• Fiume Cagnan
• Parco Naturale Regionale del Fiume Sile
• Parco dello Storga
• Parco Ali Dorate
• Prosecco Hills Tour with Wine Tasting & Lunch from Venice Treviso
• E-bike Tour in Valdobbiadene with Wine Tasting and Typical Food
• Chiesa di Santa Lucia

Home » Blog » Italy Travel Guides » 15 Best Things To Do in Treviso Italy

15 Best Things To Do in Treviso Italy

Last Updated on March 14, 2024 by Jo Fitzsimons

Our travel content is reader supported. We may earn a small commission from links in this article (no cost to you).

Treviso is a city in the Veneto region of northeastern Italy, which due to it’s close proximity to the hugely popular tourist destination of Venice (just 26km away) is unfortunately overlooked by many visiting the region. Treviso has even been referred to as ‘the gateway to Venice’, with its small airport providing a low-cost alternative to flying into nearby Venice Marco Polo airport.

However, what many don’t realise is that Treviso is a beautiful destination in its own right, with several historic palaces, medieval city walls, a maze of pretty canals and narrow cobbled streets.

Plus, not only is Treviso a quieter and more relaxed alternative to Venice, it is also closer to the exciting Veneto Prosecco region , which means that the city makes a great landing spot for those wanting to explore vineyards and enjoy a few glasses of Italian sparkling wine without having to deal with the chaos (and expense) of Venice.

So whether you’re just visiting Treviso, taking a day trip from Venice or using it as a base to explore Veneto’s Prosecco region, here are a few suggestions of fun and unique things to do in Treviso during your trip.

Related: 21 Most Popular Places to Visit in Venice, Italy | 8 Best Regions of Italy For Your Next Vacation

Table of Contents

1. Walk Treviso’s old city walls

Treviso is an ancient city which was encircled by a system of defence walls, gates and guard towers during the 15th and 16th centuries when the city was under  Venetian rule . The robust defence system clearly worked well for Treviso as the city walls are still almost entirely intact today. You can follow the walls around the edge of the city, sometimes even walking on the structure itself, and admire the historic architecture of the gates and towers along the way.

Many additional modern gates have been added to the walls over the last couple of centuries to allow for easier access to and from the historic city centre, however, three of the old city gates are still standing and have recently been restored; Altinia Gate, Porta San Tommaso (St Thomas’s Gate, pictured above) and Porta Santi Quaranta (the Gate of the Forty Saints).

2. Step inside Treviso Cathedral

It’s hard to miss the impressive Treviso Cathedral when wandering around the historic centre thanks to the five large green domes crowning the Roman Catholic cathedral. The cathedral originates from the 6th century but has been remodelled and rebuilt on several different occasions, with the current neoclassical façade consisting of six white pillars only dating back to 1836.

Other than the pillared entrance and the domes, the exterior of Treviso Cathedral is considerably simplistic, however, the interior features many stunning pieces of religious artwork and beautiful frescos that are definitely worth spending some time admiring. You can also visit the original 11th-century crypt located underneath the cathedral.

And if you haven’t had your fill of churches after visiting Treviso Cathedral, make sure to stop by Chiesa di San Nicolo and Chiesa di San Francesco, the two other large churches in Treviso’s historic centre.

3. Sip a cappuccino at Camelia Bakery

One of the best things about Treviso has to be its many charming cafes and bakeries dotted all across the city. Whether you’re stopping for your morning coffee and Italian pastry or a mid-afternoon tea and cake, you won’t be short on great options to pick from.

One of my particular favourites had to be Camilia Bakery, a beautiful modern cafe and bakery close to the canals which serves a selection of elaborate coffees, brightly coloured milkshakes, beautiful cupcakes and plenty more. They also did a great tiramisu (you’ll find out why that’s so important below).

4. Take a stroll around Treviso’s canals

While they don’t quite have the grandeur of neighbouring Venice’s iconic waterways, Treviso’s criss-cross of ancient canals are still a beautiful sight in their own right. The network of charming man-made canals run through Treviso’s historic centre, connecting the River Sile and River Botteniga.

One of the most romantic things to do in Treviso has to be taking a wander around the maze of tiny cobbled alleyways, past the rows of colourful postcard perfect houses and discovering the many hidden waterways which characterise the Italian city.

5. Explore fish island, The Pescheria

The Pescheria, or fish island, is a tiny island surrounded by the River Sile which can only be accessed by a bridge at either end and is home to Treviso’s historic fish market.

The busy fish market which consumes the entire island still runs almost every morning (it’s completely shut by lunch so be sure to arrive early). Even if you’re not out to buy anything yourself, the market is still a fascinating place to visit and watch the local buyers haggle their way around the many traders.

Keep an eye out for the sculptures which surround the island, including a mermaid and fish, and take a walk past the working watermill on the northern edge.

6. Enjoy an Aperol Spritz on Piazza dei Signori

Piazza dei Signori (which translates as ‘Lord’s Square’ in Italian) is the main city square and the heart of historic Treviso.

The large medieval square is popular with tourists due to the several beautiful historic palaces surrounding it; Palazzo dei Trecento, Palazzo del Podestà and Palazzo Pretorio. Whilst on a sunny day you’ll spot plenty of locals sitting outside on the terraces of Piazza dei Signori’s numerous restaurants, bars and cafes, enjoying an  Aperol Spritz or a long lunch while watching the world go by on the busy square. Piazza dei Signori is also regularly home to local markets, concerts and important events , so remember to keep an eye out for what’s on during your visit.

Other main squares in Treviso that are worth a visit include San Vito Piazza and Piazza del Duomo.

Related: 12 Easy Prosecco Cocktails To Make At Home

7. Visit the remains of Fontana delle Tette

For the wine lovers out there who are considering stopping in Treviso as a base for visiting the Prosecco region , this one is for you.

Fontana delle Tette (which translates into English as ‘The Fountain of Tits’ – no I’m not kidding) is a marble statue built in the city of Treviso in 1559 during a severe drought. The statue depicts a woman squeezing her breasts with water coming out of the nipples. So how could this bizarre statue have any relevance to wine I hear you ask? Well, on special occasions in the city the fountain would flow with free wine, with red wine coming from one breast and white wine from the other.

The original Fontana delle Tette was badly damaged many years ago, however, you can still view the broken remains in the Loggia dei Cavalieri. There is also a replica (which only flows with water) located close to Piazza dei Signori on Vicolo Podesta.

8. Learn more about the religious history of Treviso at Museo Diocesano

Sitting next door to Treviso Cathedral you’ll find Museo Diocesano, an interesting museum which features relics and artefacts from the neighbouring church, as well as other archaeological finds from the region. Spread over several floors, the museum has exhibitions relating to g oldsmithery, s acred vestments and fabrics, and a host of religious artwork dating as far back as the 13th century.

If you want to visit more museums in Treviso, also check out Museo Bailo, a beautiful historic and contemporary art museum with many works by well-known Italian artists.

9. Brush up on your Italian fashion knowledge

Did you know that world-renowned clothing store United Colors of Benetton has its routes in Treviso? In 1963, Luciano Benetton, the eldest of four Benetton children, was selling a small collection of sweaters in his hometown of Treviso. Two years later, the sweaters had become so popular that Luciano decided to form the ‘Benetton Group’ along with his sister and two brothers. The siblings opened their first clothing store in the nearby town of Belluno, and 50+ years later they have over 5,000 stores worldwide.

Luciano is no longer running the company himself, however, the Italian billionaire still lives in Treviso where the company’s headquarters continue to be based. You can still see the influence that the group have had on the city today, including Benetton’s flagship store just off of Piazza dei Signori, as well as the Benetton Rugby club, Treviso’s professional rugby union team who the clothing group have owned since 1979.

Fashion lovers will also enjoy taking a stroll down Calmaggiore where you’ll find many high-end local and international clothing brands with gorgeous window displays showing off the best of Italian style.

10. Laze in a cafe or bar in Piazza San Vito

Piazza San Vito is another square just a short distance from the Piazza dei Signori. Surrounded by beautiful buildings, the square is a lovely spot to do some shopping or enjoy a drink and some lunch in one of the large outdoor seating areas belonging to the surrounding cafes.

11. Nibble on Cicchetti at Muscoli’s

Cicchetti is the Venetian equivalent of tapas and usually constitutes toasted bread topped with meats and cheeses, soft white bread sandwiches known as tramezzini, aranchini, fish polpette and a few other small finger foods. Like most dishes in Italy, Cicchetti is usually paired with wine, prosecco or a spritz .

Muscoli’s is a great little spot close to Treviso’s fish market for enjoying Cicchetti and a glass wine while sat outside with a lovely view out over the canal.

12. Whet your Prosecco appetite at Proseccheria dell’Oste

Proseccheria dell’Oste is a lovely little wine bar in the center of Treviso and is the perfect spot for a warm up for a Prosecco tour in the surrounding hills. Also located close to the fish market, the bar has a great selection of Proseccos and wines, as well as delicious Cicchetti to enjoy with your drinks. Make sure you also head inside to see their impressive Prosecco wall.

Related: How To Choose The Best Prosecco | Prosecco vs Champagne: What’s The Difference?

13. Eat tiramisu where it was invented

If you know anything about this small Italian city you’ll probably already know that one of the absolute top things to do in Treviso is to eat tiramisu, in particular, at the very restaurant where the iconic Italian dessert was first invented; Ristorante Le Beccherie.

Today, the restaurant does two types of tiramisu, the classic – using the exact traditional recipe – and the contemporary – which has been given a slight update. Personally, I found the classic a little dense and bitter, however, trying the original tiramisu recipe was certainly a unique experience. The contemporary, however, was lighter and slightly sweeter than the original and absolutely divine.

Did you know that tiramisu is one of the top five Italian words known throughout the world?

14. Day trip from Treviso to Venice

With Treviso’s close proximity to Venice, it would be wrong not to spend a least a day visiting Italy’s famous floating city.

Traverse the picturesque canals, admire the architectural wonders in St Marks Square, visit the grand Doge’s Palace and stop for a spritz or gelato in one of the many charming osterias.

Visiting Venice? Check out these related articles;

• 21 Most Popular Places to Visit in Venice, Italy
• 10 Things NOT To Do in Venice (and 10 To Do Instead)
• The best restaurants in Venice – tried and tested
• How to spend one day in Venice

15. Take a Prosecco Tour

As mentioned earlier in this article, Treviso also makes a great spot to base yourself when visiting the Veneto Prosecco region.

The Prosecco hills refer to the historical region between the towns of Valdobbiadene and Conegliano, around 30 minutes away from Treviso, which is filled with beautiful rolling vineyards and family-run wineries where they produce the highest quality Prosecco in the whole of Italy – Prosecco DOCG.

It’s easy to visit the region by taking a Prosecco Tour. You can visit the wineries, learn about the winemaking process, taste plenty of quality prosecco paired with delicious locally produced cheeses and even visit the regions unique Prosecco vending machine perched on the top of a hill in the middle of the vineyards.

Sticking around for a while? Some other great day trips you can take from Treviso include the romantic Romeo and Juliet city of Verona and the hidden gem of the Veneto region, Padua . 

How to get to Treviso

Treviso has its own airport located roughly 2.9 miles outside of the city centre. It is a small airport served by low-cost airlines Ryanair and Wizz Air, and currently only serves 6 countries directly, including the UK. Despite their close proximity, flights to Treviso airport can be found significantly cheaper than those to Venice Marco Polo airport.

From Treviso airport, the easiest way to travel to the city centre is by bus. Bus lines 101, 102, 103 and S060 will take you from the airport to the central train station in just 7 minutes, with buses leaving roughly every 15 minutes.

Related: How To Get To Venice From The Airport | Flying With Alcohol – Don’t Break The Rules Or A Bottle

How to get from Treviso to the Prosecco Region

The province of Treviso stretches much further than simply the city of Treviso. In fact, as mentioned earlier, the small geographic area located between the towns of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene in the province of Treviso is where you will find the best Prosecco in Italy – Prosecco Superior DOCG .

Conegliano is about 30 km north of the city of Treviso and train company Trenitalia run numerous trains each day between Treviso and Conegliano.

Regionale (regional) and Regionale Veloce (regional fast) trains run three times an hour, with the quickest route taking a mere 17 minutes and costing just €3.45. Alternatively, the Frecciarossa (fast) trains run just a few times a day, taking 16 minutes to reach Conegliano but costing a more expensive €15.

How to get from Treviso to Venice

If you are using Treviso as a base to explore the Veneto region of Italy , there’s no reason you shouldn’t add a day trip to Venice to your itinerary.

The same TrenItalia train which runs from Treviso to Conegliano also runs the other direction from Treviso to Venice.

From Treviso central station the regional trains to Venice’s main station Venezia Santa Lucia take between 30-40 minutes and will set you back €3.45 (one way). There is also one high-speed Frecciarossa train which leaves Treviso at 14:05 each day, taking 25 minutes to reach Venice for a price of €13.

You can find a map of the Prosecco region, Treviso and Venice and all the sights recommended on this website here .

Best Hotels in Treviso

If you are planning on visiting Treviso for more than a day, here are some of the best Treviso hotels for your stay:

Palazzina 300 is an elegantly decorated 4* hotel, conveniently located on Piazza dei Signori itself. As well as being one of the most centrally located hotels in Treviso, Palazzina 300 has modern and ultra-stylish rooms, beautiful terraces and city views (some even overlooking neighbouring Casa dei Carraresi). The hotel is also just a 10 minute walk away from Treviso Central Station, making it the perfect spot for those travelling on from Treviso to Prosecco by train.

Or if a 10 minute walk to the central station is too long for you, the equally lovely Hotel Continental is located directly opposite Treviso train and bus stations. Sitting within easy reach of all of the city’s central attractions, Hotel Continental has a more classic décor with hardwood floors in every room. The hotel also does a traditional sweet breakfast and has its own bike rental and car hire facilities.

For something a little further outside of the historic centre, try Hotel Maggior Consiglio . The hotel is located in a quiet area surrounded by picturesque villas on the outskirts of town, with the city centre being easily reached with a 10 minute bus/car ride or 20-25 minute walk. Differentiating itself from many of the hotels in Treviso city centre, Hotel Maggior Consiglio’s main selling point has to be it’s extensive leisure facilities, with a swimming pool, jacuzzi, sauna, hammam, spa and fitness centre for those needing some relaxation time.

Or finally, if you prefer a BnB to a hotel, check out Avogari B&B . Located minutes from Piazza dei Signori, this cosy BnB is within walking distance of the majority of the best things to do in Treviso. With spacious rooms, private bathrooms and an Italian-style breakfast delivered to your door, Avogari B&B is perfect for those looking for their own space in a central location.

So, that’s our guide to the best things to do in Treviso. Got any questions or suggestions? Leave a comment below.

Check out our other guides to visiting Italy and Italian Wine

• 8 Best Regions of Italy For Your Next Vacation
• 15 Best Things To Do In Padua Italy
• How To Get To Venice From The Airport
• Where to Stay in Venice
• Where to Stay in Conegliano
• The Best Italian Christmas Markets to Visit
• Prosecco: Learn More About The Drink You Love

7 thoughts on “15 Best Things To Do in Treviso Italy”

Thank you for the detailed description of Treviso! I am traveling to Brescia and renting a car and would like to drive to Treviso for a day trip. Is there parking available?

Hi Connie, there is plenty of parking around Treviso. Have a great trip!

I was in Treviso last Monday. A lovely region and so many beautiful trees. However on this short tours, you do’t get to see ‘everything’. I hope to return soon. Seeing the landscape around this large area was a soothing experience. A treat for the senses, the eyes especially.

It is such a beautiful region. So glad you had a nice experience in Treviso.

We loved Treviso on our honeymoon tour of Italy.

It’s such a great city. Congrats on the wedding!

We are driving there tomorrow for a day trip. Where should we park to be in walking distance to the beauty spots of the city. Thanks Cath

Leave a comment Cancel reply

6 Charming Things to Do in Treviso Italy (with map)

Treviso is a city in the region of Veneto in Northern Italy. Because Treviso is so close to Venice it gets bypassed by tourists because Venice is such a hot tourist attraction. This makes Treviso a quiet town to visit with plenty of historical buildings and attractions. We definitely enjoyed walking through its narrow streets and admiring the many old buildings scattered all over the town. Come along with me on a walking tour of Treviso.

Treviso boasts a long history, a large university and it is also an important industrial city. All this makes Treviso a worthwhile tourist attraction…if you have have extra time in the Venice area. With our list of attractions and a map in hand, let’s start enjoying my favorite things to do in Treviso .

In this article:

What to Expect When Exploring Things to Do in Treviso?

If I could summarize our walking tour of Treviso in one word, it would be: surprise. We came here in the middle of the summer and it was hot.

My wife had some trouble with her stomach and was not feeling too well, so we decided to take it easier and go to Treviso which was closer to the Venice area where we were staying.

We assumed there is not much to see here and that we would be able to get back quicker for her to rest. However, we were pleasantly surprised when we found plenty of tourist attractions in Treviso.

In addition, even though it is close to Venice , Treviso is not a very popular tourist attraction which made the whole town not be crowded at all. Overall, Treviso gave us a great feeling of surprise and relaxation.

With our map in hand and list of attractions nearby we started our walking tour of Treviso. So put on some comfortable shoes and let’s enjoy a few charming things to do in Treviso.

1. Piazza dei Signori

Topping my favorite things to do in Treviso we find Piazza dei Signori, boasting a beautiful clock tower. We enjoyed the narrow streets and bridges and we finally made it. Walking through the streets was enjoyable because the city was pretty clean and definitely not crowded at all.

Once we parked our rental car in Piazza Santa Maria Maggiore we started our walking tour of Treviso on Via Carlo Alberto towards Piazza dei Signori and Palazzo dei Trecento which is pretty much the center of the old town.

2. Piazza del Duomo

Continuing with my favorite things to do in Treviso, we come to the dome. After admiring the old buildings and the new Benetton headquarter building we continued our walking tour of Treviso on Via Calmaggiore down towards the large Battistero di San Giovanni building in Piazza del Duomo. The church of San Giovanni Battista is an important example of Romanesque architecture in Treviso. Consecrated to Saint John the Baptist, the building is located north of the cathedral; overlooks Piazza del Duomo and is bordered by Via Calmaggiore.

Il Duomo of Treviso dates back to the early Christian age (6th century) and was built in a central area of the city. Between the eleventh and twelfth centuries the area assumed its current structure and the cathedral itself was modified according to the Romanesque style (of this period is the crypt). There are two chapels inside the church. The chapel of the Santissimo (XVI century) houses the tomb of the bishop Niccolò Franco (XV century).

The chapel of the Malchiostro dates back to 1520 and contains a famous Annunciation by Titian. Right before entering Piazza del Duomo, coming from Piazza de Signori on Via Canoniche we found an early Christian mosaic (click for map location) dating from 4th century. This again was surprising.

3. The Ancient Medieval Wall

The Ancient Wall (Il Muro) are the remains of the old medieval wall that used to protect the old fortress. There are several old gates still standing that are worth seeing. Look for one of the several ancient entry gates around the old wall. Most notable is Porta San Tomaso (Saint Thomas Gate) located on the North East corner of the ancient wall. Exploring some part of the old medieval wall was one of our favorite things to do in Treviso.

4. Buranelli Canals

Known as little Venice , Treviso has quite a few water canals crossing the old town inside the ancient city walls. The most famous of these canals is Buranelli which traverses the town from North to South. Buranelli Canals run along River Cagnan all the way through Treviso old town and it meets the larger River Sile. What makes the Buranelli canals special, is the covered shopping area built right alongside the river as it winds its way down South.

The Buranelli Canals are a joy to walk along especially on sunny days, which abound in the summer. History is everywhere you look and in addition, you will also find beautiful restaurants and cafes which are always a pleasure to visit. The people are very courteous and the place is tidy and neat. Walking along the Buranelli Canals is definitely on my list of things to do in Treviso.

5. Fish Market (Pescheria)

The fish market in Treviso is a great place to visit because it is situated on a small island in the middle of Buranelli Canals.  It is a place full of life and noises and obviously…fish smell.

From Buranelli Canals you can easily access the fish market from Via Pescheria .

6. The Quirky Fountains of Treviso

Treviso also has its share of quirky little things which can be a great addition to any walking tour of Treviso. One of them, for example is a small old water fountain that gives Treviso its name. The   Tre Visi fountain – the fountain of three faces (click link for map location) has three sculpted faces each facing at 120 degrees from the others.

Secondly, Fontana delle Tete – the fountain with breasts is the quirkiest of all. Used in the past to dispense wine, this small old fountain depicts a woman with bare breasts dispensing water through her nipples. If you have small children you might want to think about visiting this one.

Plan Your Trip to Treviso Italy

Here is a collection of the resources I recommend for planning your trip to Treviso. From picking a place to stay to where to find parking, this list of resources will help you enjoy my favorite things to do in Treviso.

Where to stay in Treviso? For a great location and experience, stay at beautiful Palazzina 300 , which is located right across the clock tower. You can also search for more budget hotels in Treviso or in the surrounding Veneto area . There are many options in the area as Treviso can serve as a good based for exploring Venice as well.

Book a local tour of Treviso . The easiest way to experience Treviso is to book a beautiful pasta & tiramisu cooking class in Treviso led by a local cook.

Where to park in Treviso? You can find free parking in Treviso on the North side of town (click for location), right inside the ancient walls. This spot is great as it is very close to the beautiful ancient entry gate of Porta San Tomaso. You can also find some free parking inside old town by Santa Maria Maggiore church. This is a small parking lot , but rarely full.

Is it Worth Visiting Treviso?

If you haven’t visited Venice and the beautiful islands of Murano and Burano , then don’t visit Treviso. However, if you have a few extra days in the Venice area, then Treviso will be a nice day trip from Venice. So, is it worth visiting this city? It is definitely not a first tourist destination especially being in the Venice area, but it has its own appeal that will leave you surprised.

• A Charming Northern Italy Itinerary
• Walking tour of Milan
• Charming walking tour of Verona
• Venice Main Island walking tour
• Walking tour of Murano Island
• A colorful walking tour of Burano Island
• In the Dolomites at Barcis
• 6 Best Things to Do in Treviso
• In-depth walking tour of Padua
• Short tour of quaint Soave
• In-depth walking tour of Sirmione
• In-depth walking tour of Genoa

Planning a Trip Soon?

You have successfully joined our subscriber list.

Treviso is the reason to go to Italy. No tourists!! Locals are great and friendly!! That’s the reason we’re going back, for the 3rd time!!!

Mike…I agree, Treviso was a great experience for us too. We loved the charm of Treviso and the quiet feeling of the town.

It’s also a great place for stays. Our second time here and we love it. It has the feel of well to do Italy without being flashy.

Yes, we also found Treviso to be more laid back and a great place for exploring all the gorgeous area around.

Looks like this Treviso city walking tour is informative and easy to follow, thank you.

Glad you found my Treviso walking tour helpful for planning your trip. Thank you for leaving a comment.

Leave a Reply Cancel Reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• International edition
• Australia edition
• Europe edition

A local’s guide to Treviso, Italy: 10 top tips

Criss-crossed with picturesque canals, this historic town also offers great art and eating – to a soundtrack of popping prosecco corks

Hire a bicycle

Treviso is a cycling city. We all get around the historic centre on two wheels: it’s a good way to avoid traffic jams, and tourists have to get used to bikes weaving between them in what look like pedestrianised streets. The surrounding region is perfect for both serious 70 to 80km routes – around picturesque hilltop Asolo and the climb up 1,775-metre Monte Grappa – or a lazy ride and picnic on the banks of the Sile. There is a municipal bike-sharing scheme, TVBike (€2 an hour), but serious cyclists should head to world-famous Pinarello : the Treviso manufacturer’s bikes have been ridden by winners of the Giro d’Italia and Tour de France (including current champion, Egan Bernal) but its local shop at at Borgo Mazzini 9 also hires town bikes from €15 a day.

Eight centuries of art

Over the past few years, Treviso has become a great place for art and culture. The beautifully restored 14th-century Santa Caterina church, convent and cloisters form part of the Musei Civici (€6), where the art collection spans exquisite frescoes by Tommaso da Modena to paintings by Titian, Pietro Longhi and Tiepolo. There are never crowds around the artworks. Avant-garde installations can be enjoyed for free in the Gallerie delle Prigioni near the cathedral, in an old Habsburg prison transformed by Luciano Benetton’s Imago Mundi art initiative. Visitors from all over the world have flocked to blockbuster Van Gogh, Picasso and Warhol exhibitions at the privately run Casa dei Carraresi (€12) on the banks of the Cagnan by the Pescheria. And don’t miss the little-known S alce Collection , an ever-changing exhibition of graphic advertising posters, featuring iconic images for Martini and Campari, Vespa and Ferrari among thousands of others.

Historic watering holes

You can’t miss the crowds round the entrance to Hostaria dai Naneti , in a narrow alleyway just off grand Piazza dei Signori. And no wonder, as an ombr a de vin (glass of local wine) still costs only 80 cents, while a generous plate for two of roast pork, mortadella, prosciutto and cheeses is around €8. Don’t think of ordering an Aperol spritz: they refuse to serve them. Two other bars to track down are All’ Antico Pallone , where they create tasty tramezzini sandwiches (€1.50), and Dalla Gigia , famous for tiny pizza slices fresh from the oven, and deep-fried battered mozzarella in carrozza sandwiches (€1.50) – totally delicious as long as you don’t think about the cholesterol.

Market shopping

For a small town, Treviso is spoilt for choice when it comes to markets. From Tuesday to Sunday mornings, seafood stalls on the Pescheria island in the Cagnan River and the adjoining fruit and vegetable market are filled with zero-km seasonal products, from chiodini mushrooms in autumn to late-harvest radicchio from November. An organic farmers’ market is held three times a week in Piazza Giustinian , but most trevigiani do their shopping on Saturday morning at the sprawling street market outside the San Tomaso city gate. Stalls are loaded with €10 cashmere jumpers (bargain factory rejects from nearby Benetton, Sisley, Geox and Diesel) and a brilliant stand selling vintage linen and leather Tyrolean outfits. Check the food stalls for local specialities such as ubriaco , cheese aged in grappa, or tasty sopressa salami.

Explore prosecco land

Immediately north of Treviso are the rolling hills that produce prosecco, recently given Unesco world heritage status. I advise visitors who come to our restaurant to take a day to explore the wine route up to Valdobbiadene , official capital of prosecco. Just south of there, on the Piave River, is Dal Din , which has been suppling Toni del Spin’s prosecco for 40 years: it is open for visits, from a simple tasting to a full cantina tour. Nearly every winemaker here welcomes visitors, and one not to miss is Casa Coste Piane , which does a very different kind of bubbly, the lightly fizzy artisan col fondo , made with natural fermentation. prosecco.it

On the waterfront

Treviso may not have gondolas, but within the medieval fortified walls, the city is crisscrossed by narrow canals and two fast-flowing rivers, the Sile and Cagnan. It’s at its most picturesque around the Canale dei Buranelli , in the historic centre, with red-brick renaissance palaces, shady arcades and wrought-iron bridges. I love walking here after lunch when no one is around. As dusk falls waterside bars such as Odeon alla Colonna on Vicolo Rinaldi and La Malvasia , round the corner on Vicolo Trevisi, are packed with locals enjoying a sunset spritz or prosecco. In previous centuries fishermen from the Venetian island of Burano came here to sell their catch: hence the name Buranelli. The 19th-century Pescheria market, on its little island, is surrounded by traditional osterie . One of the best is Muscoli , which serves surprising natural wines and local craft beers.

High and low fashion

Some of the biggest names in Italian moda are based near Treviso, but apart from Benetton fashionistas should not expect to discover too many Milan-style boutiques here. An exception is local designer Stella Zwieb , whose atelier-showroom, displaying her handmade outfits, is in a 10th-century tower on the chic Piazza Pola. Next door is Lazzari , part couture outlet, part art gallery, while across the square, Chance is a luxury vintage store selling everything from Gucci sunglasses and Fendi handbags to Valentino dresses. But Treviso still has many old-fashioned shops: I remember sweetshop Confetteria Flavia on Via Palestro being like an Aladdin’s cave when I was a kid, and Signora Flavia is still there today, surrounded by hundreds of different caramelle .

Late-night cocktails

Restaurants stay open until after midnight, and there are a couple of terrific cocktail bars serving till 2am. Mixologist Samuele Ambrosi , who has won bartender awards across the world, holds court at his speakeasy, Cloakroom Cocktail Lab , on Piazza Monte Pietà. The front bar is often packed, and it can take a while for them to fix a bespoke cocktail using homemade bitters, syrups and infusions, so head to the back, where a tiny salon is dedicated to drinks from their collection of 320 gins. A more recent opening is funky Jibo’s Bar on Borgo Mazzini, whose welcoming Somalian owner, Jibril, was brought up here in Treviso. His speciality is pairing cocktails with creamy cakes ( dolci ) baked by Silvana, his girlfriend. Even here, a spritz is €3, and a vesper martini or manhattan €7.

Sport – but not football

Trevigani are serious sports fans, but unlike most Italians we are not calcio -crazy, as this part of the country is more famous for rugby and basketball. For a really authentic experience, I tell all visitors that nothing can compare with joining the crowds of green-jerseyed fans at Stadio Monigo , home of Benetton Rugby , who compete with top teams from Britain, Ireland and France in the Guinness Pro-14 and Heineken Champions Cup. Tickets start at €15 and the stadium is a 10-minute bus ride from the centre. The atmosphere can be even more intense inside the Palaverde Arena , home of Treviso Basket , who are sponsored by another of city’s global brands, De’Longhi electrical appliances. Again, tickets cost from €15, and the area is a 15-minute bus trip away.

Lunch with noisy locals

Eating out is one of Treviso’s top attractions. Rather than chic Michelin-starred food, what we do well is rustic Veneto cuisine, in large helpings and at affordable prices in our many historic wood-beamed osterie and no-frills trattorie . The 150-year-old Osteria Arman , a noisy bar with locals playing cards at rough wooden tables while talking politics and sport, gets packed out for lunch and dinner. There is no service charge, no tourist menu, just a tempting daily list of ever-changing seasonal dishes: ravioli stuffed with locally grown radicchio and smoked ricotta (€9), plump gnocchi with rich duck ragù (€9), porcini risotto (€10) or sopa coada (pigeon soup with bread, €10), followed by tiramisu – a dessert created 50 years ago by a chef right here in Treviso. 27 Via Manzoni, on Facebook

Getting there Trains run to Treviso from London St Pancras via Paris, Milan (or Brussels, Munich) and Venice, taking from 14 hours, from about £250 return with trainline.com .

Where to stay Il Focolare (doubles from €88 B&B, ) is a small, centrally located family-run hotel, with 14 individually styled rooms that balance retro with modern design.

When to visit April-June or September-October. Treviso gets more rain than London but has fewer rainy days. Museo Santa Caterina’s major Natura in Posa exhibition of still-life works, from Jan Breughel to Robert Mapplethorpe, opens on 29 November and runs until 31 May 2020 ( visittreviso.it ).

Nicholas Sturlese works with his father running Toni del Spin , a famous Treviso trattoria

Looking for a holiday with a difference? Browse Guardian Holidays to see a range of fantastic trips

• Italy holidays
• A local's guide
• Short breaks
• City breaks
• Weekend breaks
• Cultural trips
• Restaurants

Comments (…)

Most viewed.

The Top 17 Must-See Tourist Attractions in Treviso, Italy

Wander through ancient streets lined with medieval and renaissance buildings, discover charming squares with picturesque canals, and admire impressive churches such as the cathedral of st. peter in one of italy's hidden gems..

Treviso, Italy, is a small city in the northeastern region of Veneto. Situated approximately 30 kilometers north of Venice, it is often overshadowed by its more famous neighbor . Yet, Treviso has a rich history and picturesque atmosphere that deserves attention.

One of the main reasons people visit Treviso is to experience its well-preserved historic center. The city’s origins date back to ancient Roman times, with records showing that it was founded in the 1st century B.C.E. Due to its strategic location between the rivers Sile and Cagnan, Treviso played an important role in regional trade and defense throughout history.

The city’s defensive walls from the Middle Ages are still visible in parts of the town, with notable landmarks like Piazza dei Signori, the Torre Civica, and Palazzo dei Trecento showcasing its former glory.

Besides its historical attractions, Treviso also offers beautiful natural surroundings perfect for outdoor lovers. The Sile Regional Natural Park, just a short distance from the city, provides great opportunities for hiking, cycling, and birdwatching along various trails and waterways. Additionally, local culinary delights such as Prosecco wine and Tiramisù dessert were born in this region, adding another layer of delight to visitors’ experiences in Treviso .

Top Attractions and Things to Do in Treviso, Italy

1. Marvel at the Piazza dei Signori

P.za dei Signori, 31100 Treviso TV, Italy

Piazza dei Signori is a historic square located in the heart of Treviso . It holds great significance due to its rich history and architectural grandeur. The square is surrounded by notable landmarks that showcase its cultural and historical significance.

The origins of Piazza dei Signori can be traced back to the Roman era. It served as the central meeting point for civic and commercial activities during that time. Over the years, the square has witnessed various transformations, reflecting the city’s cultural evolution.

Piazza dei Signori occupies a prominent position in the historic center of Treviso. It is surrounded by several remarkable buildings, including the Palazzo dei Trecento , which served as the seat of the city’s government during the medieval period. The Loggia dei Cavalieri, adorned with beautiful arches and sculptures, stands as a testament to the Renaissance influence in the area. Nearby, the Torre dell’Orologio, a clock tower dating back to the 15th century, adds a touch of charm to the square.

Book tickets & tours

Find accommodation nearby

2. Discover the Treviso Cathedral

P.za del Duomo, 1, 31100 Treviso TV, Italy

Treviso Cathedral, officially known as the Cathedral of Saint Peter Apostle, is a Roman Catholic cathedral in Treviso. The cathedral stands at Piazza del Duomo and serves as the seat of the Bishop of Treviso. The cathedral’s history dates back to the 6th century; however, the current structure was built from the 15th to the 18th centuries .

The cathedral’s architecture reflects multiple stylistic influences , including Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque elements. One significant aspect is its Neoclassical façade, designed by Italian architect Andrea Palladio and completed by Tullio and Antonio Lombardo in 1568. Within the cathedral’s interior, visitors will find numerous works of art, such as Titian’s “Annunciation” painting (1559-1564), a fresco by Tommaso da Modena (1352), and an altarpiece by Antonio Zanchi.

3. Enjoy a walk along the Buranelli Canal

Via Campana, 4, 31100 Treviso TV, Italy

The Buranelli Canal holds significant historical importance. Originally constructed during the 16th century , it was named after the merchants from Burano who settled in the area. In its initial stages, the canal played a vital role in facilitating trade and transportation.

The Buranelli Canal can be located within Treviso’s historic city center . It runs parallel to Via Cavour and connects to River Sile at Viale Oberdan. As one of the city’s prominent landmarks, the canal is characterized by picturesque bridges and narrow streets lined with colorful houses. Some noteworthy structures along the canal include Palazzo Raspanti, a remarkable building from the 16th century.

Visitors interested in art will appreciate Casa dei Carraresi , an exhibition space that occasionally hosts international displays. Trekking westward from Casa dei Carraresi will lead to a small bridge called Ponte San Martino, which offers a panoramic view of the canal .

4. Visit the Museo di Santa Caterina

Piazzetta Botter Mario, 1, 31100 Treviso TV, Italy

The Museo di Santa Caterina is an art museum in Treviso, Italy. It was established in 1941 and is housed in the former monastery of Santa Caterina, which dates back to the 14th century . The museum is in the city’s heart.

The museum showcases a vast collection of artworks and artifacts spanning various periods and styles. Its collection includes Renaissance paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and decorative arts. One of the museum’s highlights is the exquisite collection of religious art featuring pieces from local and international artists.

In addition to the permanent collection, the Museo di Santa Caterina also hosts temporary exhibitions showcasing contemporary artworks and installations.

5. Explore the Palazzo dei Trecento

Piazza Indipendenza, 31100 Treviso TV, Italy

The Palazzo dei Trecento , also known as the “Palace of the Three Hundred,” is a historic building in Treviso. It was constructed in the 13th century and holds great significance in the city’s rich history. Situated in the city’s heart, the palace can be found on Piazza dei Signori, a central square that has served as the political and administrative hub for centuries.

This formidable palace features a unique architectural style, and an imposing facade is adorned with intricate details characteristic of the Gothic period, showcasing the craftsmanship of its time. The Palazzo dei Trecento has seen various renovations throughout the centuries, each adding to its splendor while preserving its historical essence.

Visitors to the Palazzo dei Trecento can explore its interior, which houses several noteworthy attractions. As you step inside, you’ll be greeted by the grand Sala del Consiglio , or Council Hall, where the city council made important political decisions. The hall is adorned with remarkable frescoes and noble emblems . Adjacent to the Sala del Consiglio is the Sala dell’Arengo , a hall that hosted public assemblies and gatherings during the Middle Ages.

6. Marvel at the Fontana delle Tette

C. del Podestà, 11, 31100 Treviso TV, Italy

The Fontana delle Tette (literally “Fountain of the Tits”) is a historical fountain with a unique depiction : the female figure in the fountain has water streams emerging from her breasts. Commissioned in the 16th century by Alvise Da Ponte, the fountain served local wine during town festivities. This practice lasted until the end of the Republic of Venice in 1797.

The copy of the original sculpture, created by Peruvian sculptor Miguel Miranda Quiñones in 1989, is located in the courtyard of Palazzo Zignoli and is accessible from the gallery that connects Calmaggiore with Piazzetta della Torre and Via del Podestà.

The original sculpture was placed in a display case under the portico of Palazzo dei Trecento .

7. Take in the view from the Torre Civica

P.za dei Signori, 1, 31100 Treviso TV, Italy

Torre Civica, also known as the Civic Tower, is a notable historic structure. During medieval times, the tower served as a watchtower and signaled the closure of the city gates . Construction of the Torre Civica began in 1218 and was completed in 1255.

Situated in Piazza San Vito and Piazza dei Signori , this iconic tower stands at 50 meters (164 feet) and showcases elements of Gothic architecture. Adjacent to the Loggia dei Cavalieri, this site has consistently drawn historians and architecture enthusiasts alike.

One of the remarkable aspects of Torre Civica is its clock mechanism , which dates back to 1472. Additionally, the ancient structure contains bells crafted by founder Giacomo Barbieri in 1751.

To reach Torre Civica, individuals can travel via train to Treviso Centrale railway station and walk for approximately 10 minutes towards Piazza San Vito. Alternatively, public buses also connect different parts of the city to this historic site.

The tower is open for visitors throughout the year with varying schedules : from Tuesday to Sunday—10:00 am until 12:30 pm—and from Tuesday to Saturday—2:30 pm until 5:30 pm. It opens from 3:00 pm until 7:00 pm on Sundays and public holidays.

8. Admire the frescoes at the Church of San Nicolò

Via San Nicolò, 50, 31100 Treviso TV, Italy

The Church of San Nicolò is a noteworthy religious building. Founded in the 13th century by Dominican friars, the edifice’s construction lasted several decades, with architectural and artistic influences spanning various periods, namely Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance styles . Situated at Piazzale San Nicolò, the church holds historical significance for its educational contributions, as an adjacent convent was built to house the friars.

Significant artwork adorns the Church of San Nicolò’s interior walls, including the famous frescoes by Fourteenth-century painter Tommaso da Modena . These frescoes depict numerous urban scenes and religious themes; most notable is a series known as the Annunciation, found in the church’s Capitular Hall. Within this sacred space also lies a wooden choir adorned with intricately carved details and illustrious artwork illustrating Biblical themes.

9. Explore the art at the Museo Bailo

Borgo Camillo Benso Conte di Cavour, 24, 31100 Treviso TV, Italy

Museo Luigi Bailo is a well-known archaeological and art museum. Established in 1909 by engineer Guglielmo Bergamasco and entrusted to Treviso, it was officially inaugurated on November 3, 1912. The museum building was severely damaged during World War II and remained closed for many years. It reopened to the public in 2015 after extensive restoration work.

Museo Bailo houses a collection of prehistoric artifacts, Roman period relics, and art pieces from the Middle Ages to modern times. Some notable rooms within the museum include the Silenus Room displaying sculptures from Asolo Theater; the Prevalence Room featuring metal artifacts from grave goods belonging to ancient Celtic cultures in pre-Roman Treviso; and the Extra-Moenia Room, showcasing tombstone inscriptions. The museum also hosts a renowned collection of paintings and frescoes by local artists such as Tomaso da Modena, Antonio Pizzolo, and Ludovico Dorigny.

10. Explore the medieval walls of Treviso

Treviso TV, Italy

The Medieval Walls of Treviso are significant architectural and historical landmarks. Constructed primarily during the 16th century , these defensive structures protected the city against external threats and played a vital role in the region’s political and military history. The walls consist of defensive ramparts, bastions, gates, and canals precisely designed for strategic purposes.

Located within the heart of Treviso city center, these walls encircle a substantial portion of the historic urban landscape. Among the notable features of the walls are three main gates : Porta San Tomaso to the north, Porta Santi Quaranta to the south, and Porta Altinia to the east. Additionally, there are six bastions designed for artillery placements: Cornarotta, Sant’Agostino, San Giovanni, Fausto Adami degli Olegio, San Niccolo, and San Zan Degolà.

11. Sample Prosecco at a local winery

Prosecco wine sampling in Treviso is deeply rooted in the city’s history and culture. The production of this sparkling wine can be traced back to the 16th century , and it originates from the Conegliano and Valdobbiadene areas, located just north of Treviso.

The Prosecco Wine Road ( Strada del Prosecco ) is a well-established route that passes through picturesque vineyards, historic villages, and elegant wineries. It primarily covers the hilly region between the aforementioned towns.

12. Connect with nature at the Parco naturale regionale del Fiume Sile

Province of Treviso, Italy

Parco Naturale Regionale del Fiume Sile is a regional nature park in the Veneto region of Italy, primarily along the Sile River . Established on June 26, 1991, it covers an area of approximately 4,200 hectares. The park is located in Quarto d’Altino, Casale sul Sile, Roncade, and Treviso. It protects the longest resurgence river in Europe , with a distance of around 95 kilometers.

The park’s ecosystem preserves various habitats, including riparian forests, wetlands, and springs. Notable flora species include white willow trees and European ashes, while various bird species such as herons and mallards inhabit the area. In addition to its natural diversity, the park encompasses several historical and architectural sites. Among these are the Roman remains of Altinum city in Quarto d’Altino and the Torre Carrarese di Casale sul Sile, a medieval tower dating back to the 14th century.

Visitors can explore these attractions by walking or cycling through marked trails that offer numerous vistas along the Sile River. Additionally, boat tours provide alternative perspectives on the park’s scenery and wildlife.

To reach Parco Naturale Regionale del Fiume Sile via public transportation, one can take train services from Treviso Station to nearby stations such as Casale sul Sile or Quarto d’Altino. Alternatively, several local bus lines serve destinations within the park’s boundaries.

While visiting hours may vary depending on weather conditions and specific attractions, most zones within the park are generally accessible from sunrise to sunset. For further information about opening times or guided tours, visitors are advised to consult the park’s official website or inquire at local tourist offices.

13. Marvel at Porta San Tomasso

31100 Treviso, Province of Treviso, Italy

Porta San Tomasso is a significant historical landmark constructed in the 16th century , specifically between 1516 and 1519, under the supervision of architect Fra Giocondo. It was built as part of the city’s defensive walls during the Venetian rule and named after the nearby church of San Tomasso.

The gate is situated in the southwest part of Treviso’s historic center , close to the intersection of Via San Tomasso and Via Sant’Andrea. It features a square-shaped design adorned with decorative elements and a terracotta relief that showcases Saint Thomas Becket, an important religious figure.

14. Discover the University Area

 Via A. Caccianiga, 5, 31100 Treviso TV, Italy

Treviso’s University Quarter has a long history, dating back to the establishment of the High School of Philosophy and Literature in 1308 by Bishop Sanudo. However, the institution closed down during the Napoleonic era. Later in 1861, Liceo Classico Francesco Carrara was founded at the same location. The growth of interest in higher education led to the establishment of partnerships with the Ca’ Foscari University of Venice , adding more faculties within the quarter.

Today, this historical district stands out as a hub for educational institutions and libraries. Key places of interest include Biblioteca Comunale Baldini Library and Statua di Omero. At the same time, Piazza delle Istituzioni and Piazza dei Quriltai offer green spaces and sculptures that are easily accessible for visitors.

15. Wander through the Parco degli Alberi Parlanti

Viale G. G. Felissent, 56, 31100 Treviso TV, Italy

Parco degli Alberi Parlanti, or Park of the Talking Trees, was established in 1992 by Alberto Perdisa and Giancarlo Rado. It covers an area of 7 hectares within the Nov de Mortegliano district. The park is renowned for its educational and cultural events , primarily focusing on environmental issues and the relationship between humans and nature. Parco degli Alberi Parlanti features several tree species native to northeastern Italy and is home to various flora and fauna.

16. Sample Authentic Tiramisù

Treviso is often considered the birthplace of tiramisu and offers an authentic tiramisu experience for visitors who wish to taste the genuine dessert. Many local pastry shops and restaurants in Treviso take pride in serving traditional tiramisu, using time-tested recipes and techniques passed down through generations. While versions of this dessert can be found across Italy and throughout the world, there is something special about enjoying it in its place of origin.

17. Experience the beauty of Villa Tiepolo Passi

Via Brigata Marche, 24, 31030 Carbonera TV, Italy

Villa Tiepolo Passi is a historic estate located in Carbonera, a municipality in the province of Treviso. Situated approximately eight kilometers from Treviso, it is easily accessible via bus lines and is open to the public for tours and events.

The property dates back to the 16th century and was designed by architect Andrea Pagnossin. The villa’s construction began in 1620 and was completed in 1640. The Tiepolo family acquired the property in 1672 when Maria Pasqualigo, daughter of Venice’s ambassador to Germany, married Captain Filippo di Flavio Tiepolo.

Villa Tiepolo Passi encompasses an area of approximately 200 hectares, with extensive gardens and seven fountains . Visitors are attracted to its rich historical and cultural heritage. The villa features an impressive fresco collection created by prominent artists of the time, including Antonio Pellegrini, Giovanni Battista Zelotti, and Antonio Guardi.

The estate has also been home to numerous influential figures, such as botanist Pietro Antonio Michiel and mountaineer Antonio Chimisso Barbon.

The villa is open for guided tours from April through October on Tuesdays and Saturdays from 10:00 to 15:00. Admission fees apply for standard tours; however, more comprehensive packages that include guided walks through the surrounding landscape are also available. To ensure a smooth visit, tourists are advised to confirm opening hours and book tickets in advance through official online platforms or authorized travel agencies.

While in Treviso, you could also travel to Padua , a small Italian city full of attractions and history.

Search hotels and more...

Check-in date, check-out date.

Recent Articles

Where to Stay in Cascais: Best Areas & Hotels

Top 21 Things to See at the Vatican Museums in Rome

Sipping Through Scenery: The Ultimate Itinerary for Colombia’s Coffee Region

First Trip to Milan: A First-Timer’s Guide to the City of Art and Culture

Santa Bárbara Castle: A Must-Visit Attraction in Alicante

Where to Stay in Sintra: Best Areas & Hotels

Our most popular content.

Where to Stay in Bogotá: Best Areas and Safest Neighborhoods

Where to Stay in Rome: Best Areas & Hotels for First-Time Visitors

Where to Stay in Amsterdam: Best Areas & Hotels

Where to Stay in Dubai: Best Areas & Hotels

Where to Stay in Medellín: Best Areas & Safest Neighborhoods

Where to Stay in Dallas, Texas: Best Areas & Hotels

Where to Stay in Madrid: Best Areas & Hotels

Where to Stay in Frankfurt: Best Areas & Hotels

Where to Stay in Houston: Best Areas & Hotels

Where to Stay in Bucharest: Best Areas & Hotels

• O.G.D. activity
• Art and Culture
• Sport and leisure
• Food & drink
• Tours and trails
• Hot to get there and get around
• Infrastructure
• Where to sleep

O.G.D. “City of Art and Venetian Villas of the Treviso Territory”

The Destination Management Organizations (O.G.D.) are the bodies set up at a territorial level pursuant to art. 9 of regional law no. 11/2013 by public and private entities for the integrated management of tourist destinations in the Veneto region and the unified implementation of the functions of information, tourist reception, promotion and marketing of the tourist offer of each destination.

  What to do

Travel info

  travel info.

WHERE TO SLEEP

Contact VisitTreviso.it

Map of Treviso — Best attractions, restaurants, and transportation info

What’s on this map.

We’ve made the ultimate tourist map of Treviso, Italy for travelers! Check out Treviso’s top things to do, attractions, restaurants, and major transportation hubs all in one interactive map.

Visiting Treviso? See our Treviso Trip Planner.

How to use the map

Use this interactive map to plan your trip before and while in Treviso. Learn about each place by clicking it on the map or read more in the article below. Here’s more ways to perfect your trip using our Treviso map:

• Explore the best restaurants, shopping, and things to do in Treviso by categories
• Get directions in Google Maps to each place
• Export all places to save to your Google Maps
• Plan your travels by turning on metro and bus lines
• Create a Wanderlog trip plan (link to create a trip plan for the city) that keep all the places on the map in your phone
• Print a physical map to bring it on your trip

Top 16 attractions in Treviso

Church of saint nicolò, the cathedral of st peter the apostle.

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Fontana Delle Tette

Piazza dei signori, palazzo dei trecento.

Track your travel spending and split costs with friends

Plan your trip. Keep your budget organized. Split the cost between tripmates. Wanderlog does it all.

Civic Museums of Treviso - Home to Santa Caterina

Walls of treviso, parco naturale regionale del fiume sile, "luigi bailo" museum, parco degli alberi parlanti, p.za s. vito, fondazione imago mundi - gallerie delle prigioni, restera sull'alzaia del sile, via buranelli, isola della pescheria.

Don’t forget to pack anything

Stay organized with a to-do list, packing list, shopping list, any kind of list.

Enoteca Casa dei Carraresi

Top 10 restaurants in treviso, hostaria dai naneti.

Antico Portico

Ristorante odeon alla colonna con gastronomia, cloakroom cocktail lab, ristorante antico morer, le beccherie, muscoli's, trattoria la bassa, trattoria va saver, osteria arman, transportation in treviso, nearby airports, venice marco polo airport, treviso airport, highways and major roads.

• SR53 (Strada Regionale 53) - connects Treviso to Castelfranco Veneto and Padua
• A27 (Autostrada A27) - highway that connects Treviso to Venice and Belluno
• SS13 (Strada Statale 13) - links Treviso to Conegliano and Belluno
• SP665 (Strada Provinciale 665) - runs through the city centre, connecting Treviso to other towns in the province
• SS348 (Strada Statale 348) - connects Treviso to the city of Pordenone in Friuli
• SP6 (Strada Provinciale 6) - links Treviso to the nearby town of Mogliano Veneto
• SR515 (Strada Regionale 515) - runs from Treviso to Asolo in the province of Treviso
• SP26 (Strada Provinciale 26) - connects Treviso to the town of Castelfranco Veneto
• SP60 (Strada Provinciale 60) - links Treviso to the town of Montebelluna
• SP46 (Strada Provinciale 46) - runs from Treviso to the town of Conegliano.

Top searches in Treviso

Popular road trips from treviso, what's the weather like in treviso.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Treviso for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Treviso in January
• Weather in Treviso in February
• Weather in Treviso in March
• Weather in Treviso in April
• Weather in Treviso in May
• Weather in Treviso in June
• Weather in Treviso in July
• Weather in Treviso in August
• Weather in Treviso in September
• Weather in Treviso in October
• Weather in Treviso in November
• Weather in Treviso in December

All road trips from Treviso

• Treviso to Rome drive
• Treviso to Florence drive
• Treviso to Milan drive
• Treviso to Paris drive
• Treviso to London drive
• Treviso to Barcelona drive
• Treviso to Vienna drive
• Treviso to Prague drive
• Treviso to Budapest drive
• Treviso to Berlin drive
• Treviso to Verona drive
• Treviso to Amsterdam drive
• Treviso to Bologna drive
• Treviso to Turin drive
• Treviso to Munich drive
• Treviso to Madrid drive
• Treviso to Naples drive
• Treviso to Istanbul drive
• Treviso to Genoa drive
• Treviso to Trieste drive
• Treviso to Pisa drive
• Treviso to Lisbon drive
• Treviso to Salzburg drive
• Treviso to Edinburgh drive
• Treviso to Dublin drive
• Treviso to Ljubljana drive
• Treviso to Siena drive
• Treviso to Brussels drive
• Treviso to Ravenna drive

Explore nearby places

• Ponzano Veneto
• Quinto di Treviso
• Breda di Piave
• Zero Branco
• Casale sul Sile
• San Biagio di Callalta
• Maserada sul Piave
• Mogliano Veneto
• Ospedaletto di Istrana

All related maps of Treviso

• Map of Dosson
• Map of Carbonera
• Map of Silea
• Map of Casier
• Map of Ponzano Veneto
• Map of Cendon
• Map of Quinto di Treviso
• Map of Preganziol
• Map of Paese
• Map of Villorba
• Map of Varago
• Map of Breda di Piave
• Map of Postioma
• Map of Padernello
• Map of Zero Branco
• Map of Casale sul Sile
• Map of Zerman
• Map of San Biagio di Callalta
• Map of Roncade
• Map of Povegliano
• Map of Maserada sul Piave
• Map of Morgano
• Map of Istrana
• Map of Lovadina
• Map of Mogliano Veneto
• Map of Marcon
• Map of Rovare
• Map of Spresiano
• Map of Badoere
• Map of Ospedaletto di Istrana

Treviso throughout the year

• Treviso in January
• Treviso in February
• Treviso in March
• Treviso in April
• Treviso in May
• Treviso in June
• Treviso in July
• Treviso in August
• Treviso in September
• Treviso in October
• Treviso in November
• Treviso in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Treviso?

Get inspired for your trip to Treviso with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day Treviso Itinerary
• 2-Day Treviso Itinerary
• 3-Day Treviso Itinerary
• 4-Day Treviso Itinerary
• 5-Day Treviso Itinerary

• Itinerary + map in one view
• Live collaboration
• Auto-import hotels and reservations
• Optimize your route
• Offline access on mobile
• See time and distance between all your places