Exploring Treviso on foot is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the city’s rich history, charming atmosphere, and picturesque surroundings. With its compact layout, meandering canals, and well-preserved medieval architecture, Treviso offers a delightful experience for those who love to walk and discover hidden gems at every corner. Here’s how you can enjoy a leisurely walk through Treviso:
Start at Piazza dei Signori
Your walking tour should begin at **Piazza dei Signori**, the lively heart of Treviso. This elegant square is surrounded by beautiful medieval buildings, including the **Palazzo dei Trecento**, which dates back to the 13th century. The square is lined with cafés, making it a perfect spot to start your day with a coffee and enjoy the local ambiance.
Explore the Duomo di Treviso
From Piazza dei Signori, it’s just a short walk to the **Duomo di Treviso**, the city’s main cathedral. With its impressive neoclassical facade, the Duomo houses important works of art, including a fresco by Titian and a peaceful crypt that dates back to the early Christian period. Take your time wandering around the cathedral and its surroundings.
Wander Along Treviso’s Canals
Treviso is often called a "little Venice" because of its scenic canals, which weave through the city. Head towards the **Cagnan** and **Buranelli** canals, where you’ll find picturesque footbridges, old watermills, and charming houses reflecting in the water. The **Buranelli Canal** is especially beautiful, offering peaceful spots for photos and quiet moments. Don’t miss the **Ponte Dante**, a bridge named after the famous poet Dante Alighieri, which offers lovely views of the waterways.
Walk the City Walls and Gates
Treviso’s medieval city walls are still largely intact, making for a fascinating walk along their perimeter. Head to the **Porta San Tommaso**, one of the city’s three remaining monumental gates, which once guarded the city’s entrance. From there, you can follow the tree-lined paths along the walls, offering excellent views of the city and surrounding countryside.
Stroll Through the Fish Market (Pescheria)
One of Treviso’s most vibrant and unique spots is the **Pescheria**, the city’s fish market located on a small island in the middle of the Cagnan Canal. Walking through this lively market, you’ll see local vendors selling fresh fish and seafood, a staple of Venetian cuisine. Even if you don’t plan to buy anything, the energy and tradition of the market are worth experiencing.
Discover Hidden Churches
While walking through Treviso, take the time to visit some of its smaller, lesser-known churches, which are scattered throughout the city. **San Nicolò Church**, with its impressive frescoes, and the nearby **Church of San Francesco**, which houses the tombs of Dante’s son and Petrarch’s daughter, are beautiful stops for a quiet reflection and a look into Treviso’s religious history.
Parco Naturale Regionale del Fiume Sile
If you want to enjoy a walk surrounded by nature, take a stroll along the paths of the **Sile River Regional Park**, which runs along the outskirts of Treviso. The peaceful walking trails follow the Sile River, passing by historic watermills, weeping willows, and wildlife. It’s a perfect escape from the urban center, offering tranquility and fresh air.
Discover the Artistic Side at Museo di Santa Caterina
Located in a former convent, the **Museo di Santa Caterina** is a must-visit on your walking tour. The museum houses impressive collections of frescoes, archaeological artifacts, and Renaissance art, offering a glimpse into Treviso’s artistic heritage. It’s also a great way to break up your walk with some indoor exploration.
Café Hopping and Gelato Stops
As you walk through Treviso’s historic streets, you’ll pass numerous inviting cafés and gelaterias. Take a break at one of the outdoor terraces in **Via Calmaggiore**, Treviso’s main shopping street, for a cappuccino or a spritz. If you have a sweet tooth, don’t miss a stop for some artisanal gelato or a slice of **Tiramisù**, which originated in Treviso.
End at Piazza della Vittoria
Finish your walk at **Piazza della Vittoria**, a large square that features the **Monumento ai Caduti** (Monument to the Fallen), dedicated to soldiers who died during the world wars. The square is surrounded by shops and cafés, making it a lively place to rest and reflect on your walk through Treviso.