Villa la Rotonda

Architectural masterpiece, one of the great private villas by Palladio. Easily reachable from the city centre as there is a walkway and bicycle path. Check the opening times in beforehand as this is private property owned by the same family that originally built it. Luckily public is let to see the building still. The guides were very helpful. The cafeteria down on the park level serves excellent local wines and small snacks.

The Villa is outstanding but I don’t know who manages the team!? I never have seen so much arrogance and agressivity from the staff (mainly male), starting from the parking gardener to the guys in charge of the Villa. This marvellous place would deserve polite and professional behaviour

This beautiful house on the hill... Villa La Rotonda Villa La Rotonda, designed by the Renaissance architect Andrea Palladio in the 16th century, is a masterpiece of classical symmetry and proportion. Located near Vicenza, Italy, the villa is famed for its harmonious design, with a perfectly square layout and four identical facades, each with a projecting portico. The central dome, inspired by the Pantheon in Rome, adds a sense of grandeur and spiritual balance. The interior features elegant frescoes and carefully planned spaces that reflect Palladio’s belief in architecture as a reflection of order and reason. Surrounded by gently rolling hills, the setting enhances its serene and monumental presence. More than just a villa, La Rotonda represents a turning point in architectural history—blending classical ideals with Renaissance humanism. It continues to influence architects around the world, making it a must-see for lovers of art, design, and cultural heritage.

Worth a visit especially for architecture students or Americans if you’ve been to Monticello in Virginia. It’s a monument to Palladium design. We walked from Vicenza to a Villa nearby and found a walkway from the Villa Valmarana ai Nani to La Rotunda that was very pretty, much nicer than the roadway we followed to return to Vicenza. They offer a tour only in Italian which we skipped. The docent lectured tour members, had them sitting out on the lawn looking at the facade the entire time we surveyed the villa and its surrounds.

Amazing Palladian architecture, particularly on the outside. Very helpful staff who are willing to explain if you ask. Inside is a bit of a surprise as it is frescoed. Fair enough it is a family home now but I was expecting it to be as Palladio had initially designed it to be - plain. Only open on certain days and at certain times so check before you go. Parking is nearby (pay and display) but limited. Get there early to find a space. A full visit took about an hour, so not long. I recommend going to the Andrea Palladian museum in Vicenza before you see La Rotunda to get a deeper insight. Inside

Of all Palladio Villas probably the most famous but staff the least friendly and welcoming in contrast to other sites around Vicenza. Grand building, very beautifully renovated, garden/Park well maintained & impressive. Traffic could be handled better: maybe have one way? And a side walk for pedestrians? Or organize parking differently?

Beautiful Palladian villa near Vicenza. Wonderful architecture and stunning frescos. The romantic garden it’s beautiful too during flower blossom. Recommended.

Beautiful home and grounds. Worth a visit if you love architecture.

Based on the outside only (not the interior.) I mean, if you're in Vicenza, I guess you'll go check it out, but I'd only go after I've seen the Teatro Olimpico and Vicenza's other major sites. The walk there is kind of pretty. You can take the 8 line there and back (on the way back you'll probably have to wait in a nearby cafe.) Honestly, take a look at a few pictures and see how much it appeals to you. It is very close to Monte Berico, so if you're going to see Monte Berico and the other nearby Villa, you might as well go here. I just wouldn't go out of my way.