Graced with charming cities, countryside villas, and precious art, this corner of Northern Italy also features a playground of Alpine peaks and meadows. After a spectacular night at the opera in fair Verona's Roman arena, Rudy Maxa sets out in search of Giotto's colorful frescoes in Padua; and architect Palladio's palatial villas in Vicenza and the surrounding countryside. Then he heads for the hills and the dramatic peaks and meadows of the Dolomite mountains. Tips on touring the Veneto countryside, shopping for gold, and staying in a mountain inn are also given.