Most people speed through Veneto, on their way to our favorite Italian city, Venice.
From the train the land looks flat and unappealing, yet its cities are fascinating treasure troves of art and the art of fine living, and only a few miles to the north the Alps begin, heralded by charming little hill towns surrounded by picturesque world-class vineyards. If the crowds in Venice overwhelm you, the nearby seaport town of Chioggia is in many ways a miniature replica, replete with a vast cathedral, fine palazzi and a warren of canals. The only thing missing is the tourists. Continuing south from here you'll come to the beautiful sandy beach at Rosolina Mare, where a cool, luxurious pine forest makes a perfect spot for a swim and a picnic, especially if you're traveling with children. Nature lovers and romantics will want to head just a bit further and experience the desolate beauty of the broad Po Delta.