Vicenza and Palladian Villas: weekend tours and events for the UNESCO

Vicenza and the Palladian Villas: programme for the UNESCO 30th anniversary

In 2026 the extension of the UNESCO site "City of Vicenza and the Palladian Villas of the Veneto" reaches its 30th year. To commemorate this milestone, from 17 to 19 April the city of Vicenza is organising a weekend of special openings, guided visits and cultural events focused on Andrea Palladio's legacy.

The programme includes municipal museum sites and numerous Palladian villas across the Veneto. These initiatives aim to increase public access and appreciation through themed routes and guided experiences for both residents and visitors.

Highlights and schedule

• City openings (17-19 April): Teatro Olimpico, Museo Civico di Palazzo Chiericati, Basilica Palladiana, Palazzo Thiene, Chiesa di Santa Corona, Palladio Museum.
• Free guided tours (18-19 April): six routes around the Palladian sites in the historic centre, led by qualified guides. Each tour lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes; maximum 25 participants per session; free entry with reservation.
• Immersive theatre (19 April, 11:00): "Silent Play. Palladio between the lines" by La Piccionaia. Approximately 45 minutes; maximum 25 participants; free entry with reservation.
• Villas open: both special and regular openings — including Villa Pisani (Montagnana), Villa Angarano, Villa Forni Cerato, Villa Piovene, Villa Thiene, Villa Trissino at Cricoli; and regularly open sites such as La Rotonda, Villa Barbaro at Maser, La Badoera, Villa Pojana, Villa Pisani (Lonigo), Villa Caldogno, Villa Godi Malinverni, La Malcontenta.

Participation details

Reservations are required for the city guided tours and the immersive theatre performance; all such events are free subject to availability. For museum ticket information and opening hours contact the Tourist Information Office (IAT) in Piazza Matteotti, open daily from 09:00 to 17:30. The Basilica Palladiana information point and ticket office operate Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 to 18:00 (last admission 17:30).

Check the official local channels and the Palladian sites network for the full programme, booking details and any updates.