Welcome back to Ask a Local, a series of posts in which I interview locals all over the world about what to see, where to go, what to eat, and how to fit in in their city or town. The following interview was originally published in my Italy guide.
Today I’m happy to introduce you to Federico di Appiani, a designer, journalist, and B&B owner here to tell us all about Treviso – the original home of Tiramisu.
First, tell us about you.
I am French and Italian. I spent some years living in London, Rome, and Milan. Now, I am in Treviso (for the past 10 years). I run a B&B and work as a freelance web designer, journalist, and writer.
If someone is visiting Treviso for the first time, what do you recommend they see or do?
My top picks: the ancient wall and stone gates (Porta S. Tomaso and Porta S. Quaranta), the Restera walk alongside the Sile River, and a wine and finger-food tour in the osterias of Treviso. I also love the frescoes by Tomaso da Modena in the ancient Seminary of San Nicolò, the canals of Buranelli, and the Isolotto della Pescheria (fish market Island).
What neighborhoods or parts of town are best to stay in?
The hills are very nice. Particularly, the small towns of Conegliano, Asolo, Valdobbiadene, and Cison di Valmarino.
Let’s talk about day trips…what nearby places should everyone make sure to visit?
Gipsoteca di Antonio Canova (the “graces” by Antonio Canova—an art exhibit in Possagno) is worth seeing. Castello di San Salvatore’s book fair (held in October) in Susegana (where you can also visit the Castello di Collalto market) is another favorite, as is a walk and dining experience in the restaurants around Cison di Valmarino Castello. Also, check out the Gambrinus Restaurant in San Polo di Piave and try il piatto del giorno (the dish of the day) in the osteria.
Finally, I recommend a visit in the cantine of Valdobbiadene to buy Prosecco.
Tell us about the local dishes. What should people try here?
Tiramisu is originally from Treviso (so definitely try some here). Also: casatella (a fresh cheese), radicchio rosso di Treviso (red radish), asparagus, spritz (a drink), Prosecco, Raboso del Piave (a local red wine), and risotto.
What are your top three favorite bars and restaurants?
Osteria al Radicchio Rosso (at Via Tolpada 25/27) for amazing fish, Ke Vin bar at Via Sant’Antonino 4 (which means “what a wine”) for local flavor without the flashy, up-to-date interior, and Pizzeria la Finestra (on Via Diaz TV) for very good pizza.
Is there anything tourists do that locals find rude or strange? What can we do to better fit in with the culture?
Treviso is not Venezia, so it is not touristy. This makes it a very genuine place to visit, but also means most people don’t speak other languages, so you should try to learn a little Italian.
Why should people make sure to visit Treviso?
It’s a great home base for exploring the area. We are 30 kilometers from Venezia with a direct train and it’s very easy to go to Padova and Vicenza. Plus, there is an airport served by Ryanair less than a kilometer from the historic center of Treviso.
What is the best place to go take beautiful photos of the city?
Penisola del Paradiso around the ancient wall.