Treviso, Italy might not be a world-famous destination, but it’s definitely a place worth visiting! The ancient walled city is crisscrossed by canals and dotted with impressive palaces and opulent churches.
Monikered ‘Little Venice,’ Treviso is truly a place of its own, marked by a fascinating history, delicious cuisine and unique character.
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Although there are just a handful of things to do in Treviso, Italy, the lesser-known city is an ideal day trip from Venice.
With its easy-going vibe and solid transit connections, it also makes a fantastic base for exploring the Veneto region.
Treviso first popped up on our radar when we discovered cheap flights to its regional airport. The city’s location – just 30 minutes from Venice by train – intrigued us even more.
It was when we began investigating what to do in Treviso, however, that we were swayed into staying for an extended time.
Best Things To Do in Treviso, Italy
After ambling through the Treviso city center, exploring the nooks and crannies and nibbling on the local fare, we have compiled a list of Best Things To Do Treviso, Italy.
Our Treviso, Italy map of attractions will help you find your way – and we share pertinent travel tips (like where to stay) later in the article.
Save, Pin or Bookmark our Guide to Treviso to plan your vacation to Italy!
#1 Explore Le Mura di Treviso
City Center Treviso is almost entirely encircled by 16th century defensive walls – called Le Mura. Exploring the protective, red-brick fortifications is a must when you visit Treviso. A pedestrian path (and a flowing canal) runs parallel to the exterior of the walls.
That said, we believe the most enjoyable way to experience the walls is by standing on top of them. The northern boundary – from Porta San Tomaso to Bastione San Marco – features an elevated, tree-lined path with views that extend over the rooftops.
#2 See the Treviso City Gates
Although there are several roads that lead into Treviso today, during Medieval times, the city could only be accessed via one of the gates in the ramparts.
Three of the historic ornamental entrances still stand and stepping through them is one of the fun things to do in Treviso.
Largo Porta Altinia is the city’s historic southern entrance. It was built along the original route between Treviso and Venice. Of the three gates, it’s the oldest and least adorned.
Porta Santi Quaranta – or the Gate of 40 Saints – marks the western entry point. The grand façade features a Venetian Lion and an old cannon is stationed in front of the arch.
The magnificent Porto San Tommaso stands on the north side of the city. By far the most elaborate, complete with carved columns, shields and a winged lion, the gate is dedicated to St Thomas Becket, the Archbishop of Canterbury.
#3 Step inside the Treviso Cathedral
Visiting the Cathedral of St Peter the Apostle is a must-do in Treviso. The first church to stand on the site was built in the 6th century; erected on the site of a former Ancient Roman temple. The current Neoclassical cathedral, however, was constructed during the 18th and 19th centuries.
The exterior is most notable for its 7 domes, stately white columns and a squatty, unfinished bell tower. This is due to Venice demanding the tower not exceed the height of the St. Mark’s campanile!
The sumptuous interior is highlighted by ornate chapels, a frescoed crypt and masterpiece artworks. The Titian altarpiece, Malchiostro Annunciation, is a must-see! Like all Treviso churches, it’s free to enter.
#4 Visit more Treviso Churches
While the Duomo di Treviso is not to be missed, there are a hefty number of incredibly beautiful churches within the city walls. If the doors are open, we highly recommend taking a moment to explore them.
Chiesa di San Leonardo (labeled S. Rita over the portico) dates to the 12th century and features an exquisitely decorated interior. It’s worth taking some time to examine the artwork – including the fresco on the ceiling.
The 13th century Chiesa di San Francesco was designed in the Romanesque-Gothic style. The high arches and giant frescos are dramatic, while the adjoining cloister (which sometimes hosts art exhibits) is serene.
The enormous Chiesa di San Nicolo has an airy feel. The wooden ceiling is supported by giant columns and sublime sculptures, paintings and frescoes decorate the space.
Chiesa di Santa Maria Maggiore – or Madona Granda, as it’s known locally – houses a revered 14th century fresco and displays the chains that once shackled Saint Girolamo Emiliani.
Practically unnoticeable from the exterior, Chiesa di Santa Lucia is a small chapel that is completely adorned with incredible frescoes. The adjoining Chiesa di San Vito is worth a quick look, too.
The small and unusual Chiesa di Sant’Agostino is circular in shape, rather than rectangle. Although it was built as a Catholic place of worship, it is currently used as the city’s Christian Orthodox church, boasting a glittering iconostasis and golden-hued artworks.
#5 Admire the Treviso Canals
The picture-perfect waterways that stream through the center of town are utterly appealing. Admiring the canals from quiet laneways, pretty bridges and waterfront restaurants is one of the best Treviso things to do.
Our favorite canal is the flowing Canale dei Buranelli – and it’s most beautiful between Posticino ai Buranelli Garden and Via Campana Street.
In the garden – a spot where local women used to wash their laundry – a willow tree dips its branches into the canal. The best photo op, however, is from the picturesque Ponte Buranelli Bridge.
Ponte San Francesco, which crosses Canale Cagnan, is another exceptionally photogenic spot. While the view of the canal to the south is the most alluring, take a peek to the north to see the old mill, where two wooden waterwheels still spin with the flow of the stream.
#6 Stroll onto Fish Island
When looking for fun places to visit in Treviso, Fish Island – or Isola della Pescheria – is a top pick. The small island, which sits in the middle of the Cagnan Canal, is completely occupied by the city’s fish market.
The elliptical islet is connected to land on both ends via bridges – making it easy for shoppers to access the stalls. In addition to fish, local mushrooms and Treviso Radicchio are among the most popular items for sale.
The market is only open in the morning, but the space is accessible at all hours. The afternoon, when the area is vacant of vendors, is a great time to snap photos of the mermaid sculpture that seems to sprout from the water and the fish carvings that decorate the island.
#7 Stand in Awe of Piazza dei Signori
Marking the heart of the city, Piazza dei Signori is a must-see in Treviso. The large Medieval square – called Lords’ Square in English – is a place of local politics, social gatherings and cultural events.
The focal point of the square is the crenelated Palazzo della Prefettura and its 157-foot-tall Torre Civica Clock Tower. It’s actually the tallest structure in the city.
Flanking the Town Hall building are two grandiose palaces, Palazzo dei Trecento (also known as Palazzo della Ragione) and Palazzo Pretorio.
Via Calmaggiore, the street that connects Piazza dei Signori to the Cathedral, is an atmospheric colonnaded lane lined with local shops, cafes and restaurants.
#8 Find Fontana delle Tette
No doubt, one of the quirky things to see in Treviso is Fontana delle Tette. Located in the tucked-away courtyard of Palazzo Zignoli along Calle del Podesta, the fountain spouts water from a woman’s breasts.
The original Istrian stone fountain (which is encased in glass under the arches of Palazzo dei Trecento), was sculpted in the mid-1500s. During city celebrations of the past, red and white wine poured freely from it!
Another fountain that is fun to find is Fontana dei Tre Visi – or Fountain of Three Faces – which stands in front of Palazzo Sugana. The three-faced water source is shrouded in local legend.
#9 Shop at United Colors of Benetton
Here’s an interesting fact: The founders of the United Colors of Benetton were born in Treviso, Italy. Today, the retailer’s flagship store is located right in the city center on Piazza Indipendenza.
The highlight of shopping in Treviso at the flagship United Colors of Benetton Store is that they sell rare styles and colors that are not available elsewhere.
Want another fun tidbit? The wildly successful Treviso Rugby team is owned by Benetton. Called Benetton Rugby, the club competes against squads from Wales, Ireland and Scotland. Home games are played at the Monigo Stadium, which is just 2 miles northeast of the walled city.
#10 Get a Taste of Tiramisu
Tiramisu is one of the most famous Italian desserts in the world – and it was created at a Treviso restaurant.
In 1972, Le Beccherie added ‘Tiramesu’ to their dessert menu for the first time…and it has since taken the world by storm. The elegant restaurant still makes a Classic Tiramisu based on the original recipe, but also offers a modern version of the dessert.
That said, Le Beccherie isn’t the only tiramisu-maker in town. Every restaurant and bakery creates their own version of the dessert.
We indulged in the decadent treat at Camelia Bakery. Here they use a generations-old family recipe to make an award-winning – and positively divine – tiramisu.
#11 Discover Treviso’s Hidden Corners
One of our favorite Treviso, Italy things to do is simply to wander to see what we can find. Even with just one day in Treviso, it is possible to explore hidden corners and fascinating gems.
Piazza del Quartiere Latino – or the Latin Quarter – occupies what was once a hospital. The renovated square hosts fashionable restaurants – yet nods to the past with Farmacia Patelli, which first opened in 1860 and displays a collection of historic pharmaceutical artifacts.
A 4th century mosaic featuring both Roman and Christian symbols sits partially revealed on a quiet lane behind the Duomo Cathedral.
Via Palestro is a charming, curving lane. It’s lined with ancient palaces, now housing boutique shops with pergola-framed doorways.
The narrow, arcaded Vicolo Pescheria Lane and Via Alessandro Manzoni offer glimpses of the past with faded frescos etched on the facades and a mashup of architectural styles.
#12 Spend an Afternoon in Treviso Museums
The museums in Treviso showcase regional artworks and history. To be honest, we were so enthralled with the architecture and canals that we never made it inside any of these cultural institutions. That said, we had made a list of museums to visit in case we needed things to do on a rainy day!
- Museo Diocesano – Relics from Treviso Cathedral
- Museo Bailo – Historic and modern art museum featuring Italian artists
- Musei Civici – Frescoes and paintings inside Santa Caterina Church
- Gallerie delle Prigioni – Contemporary art installations inside an old prison
- Casa dei Carraresi – Major rotating artist exhibits
- Salce Collection – Graphic design and historic poster advertisements
#13 Walk the Restera sull’Alzaia del Sile Riverside
What to see in Treviso, Italy isn’t limited to the city center. In fact, a riverside walk along the Sile is a really good reason to go beyond the boundaries of the town walls.
The Restera sull’Alzaia del Sile pathway extends from the Bastione di Santa Sofia to the southeast for miles, following the sage-green waterway.
At the beginning of the trail, trekkers walk by the RAD Restera Art District and Galleria Alzaia, a showcase of street art murals. Further along, the path is enveloped in nature. Trees line the route, while swans, ducks and beaver rats swim in the water.
Cimitero dei Burci – a graveyard of boat skeletons and a nature reserve – is 3 miles downstream. The unusual attraction is a good destination point for a long walk or leisurely bike ride.
#14 Day Trips from Treviso
Travelers, like us, who make Treviso their base will likely want to explore more of the Veneto region.
Of course, one of the top things to do around Treviso, Italy is to take a Day Trip to Venice. We did this more than once during our stay, along with a visit to the lagoon islands of Murano and Burano. Trains travel from Treviso to the Venice Santa Lucia Station in just over half an hour.
Padua, Vicenza and Verona are also easy to reach by train. Milan and Florence are quite a bit further, but still possible to visit on a day trip.
Treviso is the gateway to Italy’s famed Prosecco region – as it’s just a short drive to the vine covered hills of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene. Without a car, it’s possible to embark on a Prosecco Tour from Treviso with a local guide.
#15 Indulge in Veneto Cuisine
The local fare was definitely a highlight of our trip to Treviso, Italy – and there is so much more to it than tiramisu!
While pizza and pasta are obviously a part of the culinary scene, there are a few Treviso specialties, too.
The best restaurants in Treviso serve regional dishes – which are often made with seasonal ingredients. What we enjoyed even more, however, is the custom of aperitivo – a drink and small snack. Hopping from one aperitivo bar to the next is a fun way to get a taste of a variety of flavors.
Vecia Hostaria dai Naneti: A classic place for a sip of wine and a taste of local cheese. Try the Casatella (soft cheese) and Bastardo del Grappa (semi-hard cheese).
All’ Antico Pallone: A hidden bar known for their Venice-inspired tramezzini sandwiches (crustless, triangle, white bread sandwiches with mayo-based filling) and legendary Panini com Porchetta Trevisana (Roasted Pork).
Osteria dalla Gigia: An unpretentious institution serving Mozzarella in Carrozza (a deep-fried mozzarella cheese sandwich with ham or tuna). The high-calorie (and incredibly satisfying) snack is often paired with a small Prosecco of Spritz.
Antica Osteria Al Botegon and Cantinetta Venegazzu: Both of these lively taverns serve delicious Veneto region Cicchetti (bite-sized fried morsels and bread-topped tapas).
More Treviso Foodie Spots
While aperitivo hopping is our favorite way to dine in Treviso, there are a few more foodie haunts we want to mention.
Pizzeria da Fausta: A landmark spot for authentic pizzas (try the Alla Fausta with mushrooms, brie and smoked ham) – plus good pasta and a nice beer selection.
Dassie Gelato: Hands down, best gelato in Treviso. The pistachio is excellent!
Confetteria Flavia: Although not a restaurant, we felt compelled to include this candy shop on our list as it’s a great place to pick up chocolates, jams, teas and other regional flavors as souvenirs. The mix-and-match chocolates allow visitors to taste a range of delicacies.
#16 Imbibe like a Local
Treviso food – even snack-size portions – is best accompanied by a glass of something local. Sipping Prosecco is practically a Treviso rite of passage, but there is so much more to drink!
The Aperol Spritz – an iconic Italian cocktail that was created in the Veneto region – is the city’s most popular bar beverage. We feel it is best enjoyed on sunny afternoons at an al fresco table.
An Ombra is an inexpensive, small glass of wine that is typically poured from an unlabeled bottle or tap. The word translates to Shadow – and it’s typically ordered with a snack.
As fans of craft beer, we were pleasantly surprised to find a number of bars in Treviso that pour both Italian-made brews and a few from around the world. NidaBar, Drop and Ottosensi were our favorite beer bars. Saluti!
Map of Treviso, Italy
Use this Google Map for an interactive version of our Treviso Map below.
Treviso Travel Tips
Ready to start planning your Treviso trip? Great! Before you hop on a plane, we have a few more trip planning tips.
As you begin making plans and reservations, staying organized is key. Use our Printable Travel Planner to stay on top of the important details of your vacation.
Getting To Treviso
The best way to travel to Treviso is by plane or train. Although it is also possible to arrive by bus or car.
One of the great things about flying to Treviso is that the small city has its own airport, which is used by European low-cost carriers. The TSF airport is conveniently located just 2.5 miles from the city center. Cheap buses and inexpensive taxis can get visitors into town in just 15 minutes.
Alternatively, the Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE) is the major international gateway to the region. If flying into Venice, the best way to get to Treviso is by taking a bus to Mestre and then catching the train to Treviso. We share honest tips for saving money on plane tickets in our article: Cheap Airfare Hacks.
Travelers arriving by rail will find that the Treviso train station is ideally situated on the south side of the city. As previously mentioned, the very affordable train from Venice to Treviso takes just 30 minutes – which is why Treviso is such a great day trip option from the Floating City.
That said, Treviso is linked to major cities throughout Italy. Although, most routes will require a change at the Venice Mestre Station.
Where To Stay in Treviso, Italy
For those staying overnight, there are a few hotels in Treviso, Italy in the city center.
The 4-star Treviso Hotel Continental is a top pick, as it’s located within the walls and just a 5-minute walk from the train station. The property offers affordable rates, clean rooms and a decent breakfast. Check availability!
Travelers can also find B&Bs and hostels in Treviso – as well as Airbnb apartments. Whichever you choose, be sure to read our hacks for Booking Accommodation for Cheap.
What To Pack for Visiting Treviso
Our final tips are all about things to pack for Italy. Need a packing checklist? Get yours for free!
Proper Shoes: Make sure to pack a good pair of Travel Shoes for city wandering; I like these sneakers.
Real Camera: Upgrade your camera to capture the beauty of Treviso; we use a Canon Rebel.
Day Bag: Deter pickpockets with a zippered travel day bag; we like to use these small backpacks.
Start planning your trip to Italy! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more tips? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more advice – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
More of Italy
- Visit Venice on a Budget
- Rome 3-Day Itinerary
- How To Spend 1 Week in Tuscany
- What To See in Lucca and Pisa (besides the tower!)
- Things To Do in Siena
- The Best of Lecce
- San Gimignamo Day Trip
- Planning a London, Paris Rome Trip
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