Veneto
Venice, Verona, Prosecco hills, and the Palladian villas that defined Western architecture.
About Veneto
Veneto is one of Italy's most diverse regions. Venice needs no introduction, but the region surrounding it is equally extraordinary. Verona's Roman arena hosts summer opera under the stars, Padua's Scrovegni Chapel contains Giotto's masterwork, and the Prosecco hills of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene are now UNESCO-listed. Andrea Palladio's elegant villas dot the countryside, and the Dolomite foothills offer spectacular hiking. The cuisine ranges from Venetian seafood to the hearty mountain fare of Belluno—all washed down with local Amarone, Soave, or sparkling Prosecco.
Best Time to Visit
April to June or September to October. Venice is magical in autumn light and misty mornings. Verona's opera season runs June to September. The Prosecco harvest in October is festive.
Local Tips
- Opera in an ancient arena.
Verona's Arena opera season is one of the world's great cultural experiences. A local will tell you to buy the unreserved stone seats, bring a cushion, and arrive early for the candle-lighting ceremony at sunset.
- Tour the Prosecco road.
The strada del prosecco between Conegliano and Valdobbiadene winds through UNESCO-listed hills. A local knows the small family producers who pour their best vintages in farmhouse courtyards.
- Visit Palladio's masterpieces.
Vicenza is an open-air museum of Palladio's architecture. A local can plan a day combining the Teatro Olimpico, Villa Rotonda, and a lunch of baccalà alla vicentina—the city's signature dish.
Highlights
(the local lens)
Meet the Local Experts
Your on-the-ground insiders. The ones who know the enduring favourites, the quiet corners and what’s worth your time.
Eleonora
Palermo, Syracuse +10
Hello, I’m Eleonora. I was born in Tuscany, just outside Florence, where growing up surrounded by history, shaped my curiosity and love for art. I studied Art History at the University of Florence, specializing in the Renaissance. I began guiding students early on, and it was there that I developed a passion for storytelling — because there is nothing more challenging than engaging teenagers and young adults. I later expanded my focus to the broader history of Italy, leading groups throughout the country, from Venice to Sicily. Eventually, I moved to Rome, where I now work as an expert tour guide, leading visits to the city’s most iconic sites, including the Vatican and the Colosseum, as well as off the beaten path, to some of its hidden gems. In my free time I love to drive around Italy to its myriad hilltop medieval towns, where each one is a new discovery, both architectural and natural and also, of course, culinary! Over the years, many travelers have asked me for advice and suggestions to help plan the rest of their itineraries. That is why I’m happy to connect with you even before your trip begins, sharing my insights and helping you make the most of your time in Italy.
Edoardo
Amalfi, Sorrento +11
Born and raised in Italy's Marche region, I have explored the country from north to south during travels and study periods away from home. I have lived part of my life in amazing cities such as Venice and Bologna, and have visited Rome a lot since I have family and friends there. I am an experienced trip planner for destinations all over Italy, from the breezy Cinqueterre in Liguria down to the sun kissed Amalfi coast. If you want someone to help you with all-encompassing guidance and make the best out of your trip to Italy, I will be most happy to help you!
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Roberto
Venice
Hello everyone! My name is Roberto and I am ready to be your host and help you to discover the very true side of Venice. I was born, raised up and living in Venice since 1957. I have been knowing and loving Venice for more than half a century now. After being a concierge in the most famous hotels in Venice, I went for a change and became a licensed tour leader and environmental guide. I will certainly be able to share with you how we live in Venice now compared to live in Venice some years ago if you are interested! And yes, I am old enough to do it! I am a true Venetian and I have a sort of warranty certificate for this :) I mean for being a true Venetian. My family was a well known noble family in Venice that also gave Venice a doge...and who was the doge? Eh I cannot tell you everything now! Book a call with me to discover more!
Sebastiano
Genoa, Portofino +8
I’m originally from Italy and have spent years helping travellers plan their trips across the country through my instagram page @friendinitaly - from iconic destinations like Rome, Florence, and the Amalfi Coast to lesser-known places that most tourists completely miss. After moving to the United States four years ago, I realized how difficult it can be to truly understand how to travel in Italy without local insight. That’s why I started helping people plan smarter, more authentic trips - not just following generic itineraries, but creating experiences that actually fit their travel style. I’ve helped hundreds of travellers with practical advice on transportation, timing, hidden spots, and how to avoid common mistakes that can ruin a trip. I also guide people on how to move efficiently between cities, how many days to spend in each destination, and which cities to choose for a first trip to Italy. Whether you're visiting Italy for the first time or coming back for something deeper, I can help you make the most of your time.