One of twenty regions of Italy, the Veneto comprises the northeastern area of the country along the Adriatic coast. Bordered by the Dolomites to the north and the beautiful Lago di Garda to the west, the Veneto is a land of richly varied terrain and historical grandeur. The majority of tourists head straight for the capital city of Venice, but the countryside, with its quaint villages and world-class vineyards, is an equally fascinating place to explore.

History

Originally settled by the Veneti, who were believed to have come from Asia Minor sometime in the first millennium B.C., the region prospered through trade and agriculture. The region was subject to Roman rule during the 2nd to the 1st centuries B.C., and later came under the reign of the Lombards. From the time of the Middle Ages until the French Revolution, the city-state of Venice controlled the entire region. The Veneto subsequently came under Austrian rule, but was returned to Italy in the 1800's, gaining economic status through agriculture and industrialization.

Art & Museums

While Venice is the most visited city in the Veneto, many other opportunities are available to experience the art and culture of the region. The Museo del Vino in Bardolino gives visitors a first-hand look at the ancient tradition of wine-making, along with the opportunity to purchase the local vintages.

Cathedral of Treviso is home to some of the stunning works of Titian, while nearby churches house frescoes created by Tommaso da Modena.

For those who love architecture, Vicenza is a spectacular showcase of the work of Andrea Palladio, perhaps the most famous architect in history.

Nightlife

The nightlife of the Veneto has a reputation for being extremely lively, if not raucous. The Odissea, the largest club in Treviso, features more than 15 dance floors, lounge areas and bars. For something a bit more low-key, the Piazza San Marco in Venice offers wine bars, cafes, and live music all night long, while students and tourists alike converge on the city of Padua for after-hours entertainment which includes wine bars, cafes, and beer pubs.

How to get there

The regions's three major airports, in Venice, Treviso, and Verona, are gateways for tourists from around the world. For those who prefer to travel by rail, the Trenitalia is easy and convenient. In addition, the entire region is accessible to motor vehicles via the Italian Autostrade .