What to see in northern Italy? I have family there and I've discovered some hidden gems

In my opinion, there is no place like Asolo

Situated on gentle hills, Asolo is a picturesque Italian town known as the “Pearl of the Treviso Province”. Its cobbled streets, Renaissance villas and panoramic views have long inspired artists, writers and aristocrats.

With its rich history and tranquil setting, Asolo offers the perfect blend of culture and beauty, creating a truly romantic atmosphere. And it's only an hour's drive from Venice.

During my visit, I visited a local fortress and went prosecco tasting at the modern Progress Country and Wine House. I also drank a Bellini while admiring the sunset from the terrace of the famous Hotel Villa Cipriani.

I consider Treviso to be Venice without the crowds

In my opinion, Treviso is like a little Venice – only calmer and less crowded.

Lying about 40 minutes from its more famous “sister”, it has plenty of winding canals, cobbled streets, frescoed houses and elegant squares full of historical gems. In my opinion, Treviso combines history, art and gastronomy in a way that is both authentic and charming.

Be sure to stop for lunch and a spritz at the Odeon Alla Colonna, visit the Treviso Cathedral (Duomo di Treviso), stroll through the boutiques, and check out Piazza dei Signori, the heart of the city.

Valdobbiadene is a paradise for wine lovers

Wine connoisseurs will fall in love with Valdobbiadene – a beautiful town on a hill, approximately 1 hour away. from Venice, known as one of the main centers of prosecco production.

Surrounded by rolling vineyards and picturesque countryside, it offers the opportunity to visit local wineries and sample excellent sparkling wines. The town itself is quiet and charming, with panoramic views of the valley and a leisurely pace encouraging you to linger longer.

I chose wine and prosecco tasting at Fasol Menin – a modern winery full of designer art and views of the vineyards.

Then I went to Piazza Guglielmo Marconi, where I ate gelato, lunch at a café and saw the city's monuments against the backdrop of sleepy hills.

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Cittadella is a fascinating medieval town

Cittadella, located approx. 1 hour from Venice, is a fascinating medieval city famous for its perfectly preserved thirteenth-century walls that still surround the historic center.

It is one of the few fortified cities whose walls can be completely walked through, admiring the panorama of red roofs and the landscape of Veneto.

Inside you'll find cobblestone streets leading to charming squares, beautiful churches and small artisan shops. Combining history, culture and authenticity, a visit to the Cittadella is like stepping back in time – but still in the comfort of modern life.

Be sure to walk along the top of the former walls. I also visited the neoclassical cathedral (Duomo di Cittadella), ate pizza at Al Cappello Ristorante and took a walk around the central Piazza Pierobon.

Lake Garda delights with its views and relaxing atmosphere

Lake Garda is the largest lake in Italy, known for its spectacular combination of alpine landscapes and Mediterranean climate.

Located approx. 2 hours from Venice (depending on the city you go to), offers crystal-clear waters surrounded by mountains and charming towns – the perfect combination of views, relaxation and activity.

Thanks to its mild climate, historic castles and waterfront promenades, Lake Garda is a truly dreamy destination. There are many towns around the lake, but tourists often start in Sirmione, where history, shops and waterside cuisine await.

From there, I recommend taking a cruise to discover other parts of the lake and immerse yourself in the cool, clear water.

Vicenza is a city full of stunning architecture

Vicenza, less than an hour from Venice, is an elegant city known for its unique architecture. Here you'll find numerous works by Renaissance architect Andrea Palladio, including the stunning Teatro Olimpico and the Palladian Basilica.

The UNESCO-listed city combines a rich artistic heritage with modern Italian lifestyle – full of boutiques, cozy cafes and lively squares.

Surrounded by hills and vineyards, it is also the gateway to the Palladian villas scattered around the surrounding area.

Bassano del Grappa will always have a special place in my heart

I can't talk about hidden gems without mentioning Bassano del Grappa – it's where my family is from and the reason for my frequent visits to the north of Italy.

This charming town, just over an hour from Venice, is famous for the historic, picturesque wooden Ponte Vecchio bridge.

Surrounded by the foothills of the Dolomite Alps, it offers a unique combination of Renaissance architecture, artisan shops and traditional grappa distilleries.

The historic center is great for strolling the cobbled streets, drinking espresso in the quiet squares, and admiring the mountain views.

I recommend having dinner at Ristorante Birraria Ottone (which has been in my family for over 150 years), wandering around the local markets, trying paragliding for a bit of adrenaline and enjoying the views of the river.

The above text is a translation from American edition of Business Insider