Medieval Canals and Renaissance Fountains: A Treviso Walking Tour

Treviso may be overshadowed by neighboring Venice, but this elegant city offers its own network of picturesque canals, medieval architecture, and fascinating history. On this walking tour, you’ll see why locals affectionately call Treviso “Little Venice“ as you stroll along its charming waterways and hear its centuries of captivating stories.

The tour starts at the impressive Loggia dei Cavalieri, a medieval meeting place where nobles played chess and cards in the 1200s. You’ll wind through cobblestone streets into Piazza dei Signori, the heart of the old city, and stroll along Canale dei Buranelli with its weeping willows and historic buildings. As you walk, you’ll learn how Treviso evolved from a Roman colony into a medieval commune and Venetian territory, with each era leaving its distinct mark on the city.

The tour ends at Bastione San Paolo, a bastion built in the 1700s when Venice rushed to fortify Treviso against a coalition of European powers. Along the way, you’ll cross ancient bridges, peek into hidden courtyards, and find out how this understated city has maintained its authentic character while larger destinations have become overwhelmed with tourism.

Along the way, you’ll have a chance to:

• Stand beneath the 48-meter civic tower in Piazza dei Signori while learning about Treviso’s political evolution
• Hear the tale of the infamous Fontana delle Tette, a quirky Renaissance fountain that once flowed with wine to celebrate new government appointments
• Cross the Ponte di San Francesco to see the medieval water mills that once powered Treviso’s economy
• Wander through Isola della Pescheria, the fish market island created in 1855 by connecting three smaller islands
• Admire the elegant Palazzo Giacomelli (also known as Palazzo Dolfin), where you’ll see the city’s Venetian architectural influences
• Learn about the ghostly legends from the surrounding marshlands and the brave Coccolo who dared to investigate them

By the end of this intimate 75-minute tour through Treviso’s hidden corners, you’ll understand why this charming city deserves far more attention than it typically receives.