“A city is a language, a repository of possibilities, and walking is the act of speaking that language.”

Rebecca Solnit

For week seven I was back to my solo adventures with a bit of family time sprinkled in. I decided to go to Treviso, just outside of Venice because my cousin lives there with his family, and he thought I would enjoy it. The NY Times recently did a piece on Treviso and it is one of those hidden treasures that hasn’t been ruined, yet, by over tourism even with its close proximity to Venice.

From Bologna it took 2-hours to get to Treviso. First a high speed train, then a transfer at Venezia Mestre to a regional train. My Airbnb was less than a 10-minute walk from the train station at the edge of the historical center.

Treviso much like Venice is surrounded by canals and has canals flowing through the city. It is also partially surrounded by walls built in the early 1500s. The city is flat, easy to walk, and full of shops, restaurants, cafes, museums, and churches to explore. There is no need for a map unless you are looking for something specific. You can also ride a small “train” for a few euro to get a quick overview of the center and learn some history.

The central square is Piazza dei Signori, and in the afternoons it is filled with people milling about and enjoying a late afternoon gelato, aperitivo or coffee. Although my favorite spot at the end of the day was Feltrin Sommariva sitting on the outside patio overlooking a canal. Surrounding the city you’ll see many Venetian villas as you stroll outside the walls on the walking path. On top of the wall is a tree-lined walking path with benches, parks for children to play, and some wonderful views inside and outside the historic center. You’ll see a large Benetton store in the town center. Do you remember Benetton? It’s not as popular in the US anymore, but you’ll see them around Europe, and Treviso is its headquarters so they have some of their nicest apparel here.

There is a big market on Saturdays where you will find fresh pastas, vegetables, nuts, clothes, crafts, etc. The locals do their shopping here and it is wonderful.

There is a unique statue in town, Fontana delle Tette. The one I saw is a replica built in 1989, the original for preservation purposes is kept in a glass case in another location. The original sculpture was built in 1559, and it is said to have spouted red wine from one breast and white wine from the other once a year during a special celebration, and the citizens of the town could drink for free for three days.

Tiramisù was invented in Treviso, and if visit you should go to Le Beccherie, it is credited as the birthplace, although some dispute that and give credit to other restaurants. You’ll find tiramisù at many restaurants in the city, but I decided if I was going to have it, why not go to its birthplace? I’m not a big fan of tiramisù, but it was delicious!

Not far outside the city is the Prosecco region. It is beautiful and my cousin took me for a day to explore the countryside. The driving seemed easy, but I wasn’t the one driving, but I think you could easily rent a car and set a winery or two in your GPS and be on your way. He brought me to an area where there was no one serving the customers, they had vending machines on the path where you could buy your glass, which would become a souvenir, a bottle of prosecco, and inside a small building were some meats and cheeses for purchase. Then as you walk through the vineyards you’ll see seating areas and small tables with benches where you can sit and enjoy some Prosecco, the views, and have a picnic. They even had cutting boards and knives to borrow. Genius really, and it makes for a wonderful afternoon with friends. If you are not a fan of Prosecco, wait until you try it here, it is much better, even the cheaper bottles, then most brands you will find in the US. There are also many restaurants and wineries to stop at for dining and tastings. If you have your heart set on a particular restaurant, I suggest making a reservation as they become busy during the lunch hour.

I’m happy I visited Treviso, and I will definitely go back. If you want to experience a nice city, easy walking, and escape the crowds of Venice, come to Treviso and the surrounding countryside, you won’t be disappointed.

Arrivederci! 413 Girl 💕