The world’s most romantic city is nothing short of spectacular. It’s undeniably rampant with tourists and holidaymakers in the summer, but its popularity doesn’t take away from the city’s incredible magic. Take a walk around the famous Piazza San Marco, wander down the backstreets for undiscovered Venetian restaurants, see the stunning Rialto Bridge lit up at night, and ride a gondola across the Grand Canal.

Verona, second in beauty only to Venice, is a breath-taking river city offering the most fantastic views of the River Adige – all with the Lessini Mountains as a backdrop. See the outstanding Castel Vecchio Bridge, the Piazza Del Erbe, the Scaliger Tombs, the Verona Arena, and the romantic home to Romeo and Juliet; Juliet’s Balcony at the Casa di Giulietta.

The diverse landscapes of the Veneto region can sometimes be overlooked – and it’s easy to do so with its magical cities – but a journey to Veneto is never gratified without a trip to the Dolomite Mountains. Stay in the little jewel of Cortina d’Ampezzo, a small town which is neatly tucked into the base of the Dolomites. Enjoy skiing or hiking, and finish off your days with some Michelin starred dining. It’s a truly glamorous affair and luxury is never far away.

Italy is without a doubt, famed for its wonderful lakes. Lake Garda is Italy’s largest and grandest, so vast that it brings together a trio of regions; Lombardy, Trentino and Veneto. It’s a meeting point of three major parts of the country and there are many lakeside towns and villages to be explored. We recommend staying near Garda, Malcesine, Bardolino and Lazise.

Venice alone is wonderful but surrounding it is a vast lagoon with smaller islands that offer less chaotic crowds. Lido has a relaxed pace of life and a well-managed beach for those who want to kick back, Murano is the iconic home to Italian glass-making and glass jewellery, and Burano is famed for its colourful architecture. For anyone staying in Venice, don’t forget to set aside an extra few days for the surrounding islands of the Venetian Lagoon.

Vicenza is truly unique when it comes to architecture; all thanks to the legendary Andrea Palladio, a world esteemed architect, turning the city into his adopted home. Known as the “City of Palladio”, Vicenza houses some of the most amazing Palladio villas of the region. Be sure to see the Palladian Basilica and the Olympic Theatre.

Another gloriously beautiful city worth visiting in the region is Padua; you’ll find a young, stylish crowd here due to the many students who reside and study in the city. Perfect for culture vultures, Padua’s ambiance is derived directly from the cosmopolitan lifestyles of the local residents. Enjoy a picnic at Corso del Popolo and watch the sunset, experience the electric party atmosphere at Piazza dei Signoria by twilight, and stroll along the Bacchiglione River when it’s elegantly lit up at night. Don’t miss the Civic Museums, the Scrovegni Chapel and St. Anthony’s Basilica.

Not only is Soave one of the Veneto’s unique walled cities, but it’s also an interesting wine region for those with a taste for world class DOC and DOCG vino. This preserved medieval commune comes complete with its own medieval castle which makes it a great place to explore. There are a number of vineyards in the area so be sure to book in for an exclusive wine tour or tasting day.

Another spectacular walled city is Monselice in North East Veneto. Located by the Euganean Hills, the views are just breath-taking. A ruined fortress can be seen on top of Monselice’s hilltop and the entrance to the castle can be reached from Via del Santuario. This sleepy town doesn’t have the variety of the region’s bigger cities when it comes to restaurants and bars – and it can be quite hard to find somewhere to eat in the historic areas. But head to Piazza San Marco and you will be greeted with a number of inviting places to sit down and enjoy a bite to eat.

If you’re looking for a seaside town to get away from the hustle and bustle of Veneto’s top cities, Caorle is a must. This scenic coastal holiday destination has over 9 miles of pristine beach and the traditional nature of the old town will make you feel like you’ve taken a step back in time. Walk along the cliffs to the Virgin Mary Sanctuary and take a boat excursion to Ernest Hemingway’s much loved Caorle Lagoon.