The Teatro Olimpico in Vicenza, Italy.

Vicenza travel guide for first time visitors

Vicenza is one of Italy’s architectural treasures, showcasing numerous works by Andrea Palladio. It’s a perfect stop between Venice and Verona. What is Vicenza all about? Few people have had as great an influence on architecture as Andrea Palladio. His admiration for the symmetry and…
The Prato della Valle in Padua, Italy.

Padua travel guide for first time visitors

My Padua travel guide for first-time visitors explores the Scrovegni Chapel, Palazzo Bo, and essential tips for touring this city. What’s Padua all about? In one spot, Padua is gritty. All galumphing Mussolini-era facades and grey stone. Then turn the corner, and it’s gorgeous. Elegant…
Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire, England.

The quietest times to visit Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire

If you're aiming to visit Blenheim Palace at its least hectic, these recommendations come from visitor experience. Quietest days and hours to visit Blenheim Palace - Weekday mornings, especially soon after opening, tend to be the least crowded, allowing you to explore the grounds and…
La Rotonda in Vicenza, Italy.

Exploring the architecture of Andrea Palladio in Vicenza

Andrea Palladio's Vicenza, summarised La Rotonda is a symmetrical villa with a central dome. The Palladio Museum showcases models of Palladio's architectural works. The Basilica Palladiana converts a Gothic building with Palladian windows and a marble façade. The Palazzo Valmarana demonstrates Palladio's adaptation to street…
Battle Abbey near Hastings, Sussex.

Parking at Battle Abbey, Sussex: what you need to know

Parking at Battle Abbey in Sussex: what you need to know. A practical guide to arrival, costs, and visiting the historic 1066 battlefield. This guide was updated in September 2026 to confirm current parking charges. Battle Abbey was built on the site of the Battle…