Veneto is a region of immense scale and historical power. Spanning every landscape from the towering Dolomite peaks in the north to the shallow lagoons and beaches of the Adriatic Sea. This region was the core domain of the mighty Venetian Republic, which controlled the seas for a thousand years. The wheels of your care move through centuries of wealth, natural beauty and art that remains globally influential. The roads here connect Italy’s geographical extremes. In the north, you can drive challenging routes through the mountain passes leading toward Cortina d’Ampezzo. Southward, flat, quick roads link the region’s historical anchors. You must visit Verona for its Roman arena plus the Shakespearean connection and Vicenza to see the architectural perfection of Andrea Palladio’s villas. Venetian cuisine reflects delicate seafood and rice dishes near the coast. Inland, it's rich polenta and meat. The region is the source of Prosecco, the globally popular sparkling wine. Also the famous red wine Amarone has its home in the region. Every sight you'll enjoy speaks to the enduring strength of the historical Republic.

Veneto highlights

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The Scenic Route

The Heritage Drive

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History of Veneto

The history of Veneto began with its position as a key Roman territory. Connecting essential roads like the Via Postumia. The region’s destiny was shaped by its people fleeing barbarian invasions. They retreated to the safe, shallow lagoons, founding Venice. This geographical isolation allowed the city to develop into the Serenissima: an independent Maritime Republic that grew rich by controlling the spice and silk trade routes between East and West. By the late Middle Ages, the Venetian Republic extended its power inland. Conquering the mainland territory. This included Padua, Vicenza and Verona. This expansion made the Republic a major political and military power in Italy. This era also saw the construction of magnificent architectural works including the great villas of Andrea Palladio. Built for the wealthy Venetian elite seeking investment and leisure outside the lagoon. The Republic’s millennium of independence ended dramatically when Napoleon conquered Venice in 1797. Following the Napoleonic Wars, the region fell under the control of the Austro Hungarian Empire. This period of foreign rule lasted until the mid 19th century, when Veneto was finally unified with the rest of Italy. The region retains the immense cultural legacy, architecture and wealth accumulated during its thousand year rule.

Veneto

Veneto highlights

Part of these road trips

History of Veneto

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