Venice Travel Guide (Metropolitan Venice/Veneto/Northeast Italy/Italy/Europe)

Introduction to Venice

Venice is a city like no other, built entirely on water, and is one of the most romantic destinations in Italy. Often referred to as the “City of Water,” Venice is made up of 118 islands connected by a network of canals and 400 bridges. It is the capital of the Veneto region and is located in northeastern Italy. Home to world-class museums, historical sites, priceless works of art, and a seemingly endless supply of romantic canals, Venice is a city that is both beautiful and unique.

List of Places to Visit in Venice

Venice is a city that is best discovered by foot. Each corner is another photo opportunity, and every street is a new adventure. Here are some of the top places to visit in Venice that are sure to leave a lasting impression.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

The Doge’s Palace: This magnificent palace was home to the Doge, the elected ruler of Venice, and houses some of the city’s most impressive art and architecture.
Saint Mark’s Basilica: Located in the heart of the city, this stunning basilica is one of the most celebrated examples of Byzantine architecture in the world.
Rialto Bridge: One of the most iconic landmarks in Venice, the Rialto Bridge provides some of the best views of the city and is a prime location for souvenir shopping.
Peggy Guggenheim Collection: One of the most visited museums in Venice, this collection showcases modern art from some of the world’s most influential artists.

Natural Attractions of Venice: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

The Grand Canal: This main waterway in the city is where you can best experience the romance and culture that Venice has to offer. Take a ride in a gondola to experience the beauty of the canals at sunset.
Giudecca Island: A short boat ride from the city, this island offers breathtaking views of Venice, and is home to the famous Molino Stucky Hilton Venice.
Lido di Venezia: An island island in the Venetian Lagoon, Lido di Venezia is famous for its beaches and the Venice Film Festival.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Venice

Venice is not known for its hiking or biking trails, as it’s a city made up of canals and small streets. However, you can explore the city on foot or rent a bike and ride along the Venetian Lagoon, enjoying the beautiful views.

Best Things to Do in Venice: Activities and Tours

Venetian Food and Wine Tour: Experience the delicious and unique cuisine of Venice by taking a food and wine tour.
Gondola Rides: One of the most popular things to do in Venice, taking a gondola ride allows you to experience the city’s canals up close and personal.
Venice Walking Tour: A walking tour of Venice allows you to see the city’s famous landmarks while exploring the alleys and hidden corners.
Murano and Burano islands: These islands are famous for their colorful houses, lace-making, and glass-blowing, and are a must-visit for any travel enthusiast.

Week-Long Itinerary for Venice

Day 1: Arrive in Venice, check-in to your accommodation and explore the city center, including a visit to Saint Mark’s Basilica.

Day 2: Take a gondola ride through the canals of Venice and explore the Rialto Bridge and the market stalls around it.

Day 3: Visit the Doge’s Palace and explore the art and architecture on display, followed by a visit to the Peggy Guggenheim Collection.

Day 4: Visit the islands of Murano and Burano and explore their famous art and architecture.

Day 5: Spend the day on the Lido di Venezia, admiring the views of the Venetian Lagoon.

Day 6: Explore the ancient alleyways and hidden courtyards of Venice on a walking tour, followed by a romantic dinner in a traditional Venetian restaurant.

Day 7: Departure from Venice.

Food and Drink Scene of Venice

Venetian cuisine is unique and offers some of the most delicious dishes in Italy. The city is known for its seafood and vegetable dishes, and famous for dishes like fegato alla Veneziana (Venetian liver) and sarde in saor (sweet and sour sardines). Here are some of the must-try Venetian dishes.

Must-Try Dishes

Cicchetti: Small dishes of Venetian cuisine served in bars and restaurants throughout Venice.
Risi e Bisi: A creamy rice dish with peas, traditionally served on St. Mark’s Day.
Spaghetti ai vongole: A pasta dish made with clams, garlic, and white wine, popular in Venice.

Local Beverages

Prosecco: A light and refreshing sparkling wine that is a local favorite.
Spritz: A classic Venetian drink made with Aperol, Prosecco, and soda water, often served with an olive or a slice of orange.

Where to Stay in Venice: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are many options for accommodation in Venice, ranging from luxury hotels to budget hostels. Staying in the city center is recommended, as it allows for easy access to all of Venice’s sights. Some of the top hotels in Venice include:

Hotel Danieli
Belmond Hotel Cipriani
The Gritti Palace

Hostel options include:

Ostello Santa Fosca
Youth Venice Hostelers Home

What to Buy in Venice: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Venice is famous for its glassware, lace, and carnival masks. Murano glass is a signature product of Venice, and there are many stores where you can find a unique glass piece to bring home as a souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Venice

Venice has a rich cultural and artistic heritage, and the Venetians take great pride in their traditions. The city is famous for its Carnival, which takes place in February, and its glass and lace industries. It’s also worth noting that Venetians are passionate about their team, the Venezia Football Club.

Best Time to Visit Venice

The best time to visit Venice is during the spring months (April, May, and June) when the weather is warm, and the crowds are smaller. Fall is also a nice time to visit when the leaves are turning colors, and there are fewer tourists.

Do’s and Don’ts of Venice

Do:

Take a gondola ride and experience the city from the water.
Explore the alleyways and small streets of Venice.
Try the local cuisine and enjoy the local wines.

Don’t:

Block the streets or bridges when taking photos, as it can create a traffic jam.
Touch the water in the canals, as the water is not clean.
Buy from the street vendors as they often sell counterfeit goods.

Safety and Health

Safety in Venice

Venice is a safe city in general, but like any popular tourist destination, pickpocketing can be an issue. It’s essential to keep your valuables close when walking around the city.

Health in Venice

Venice has several hospitals and clinics, including the Hospital of Saints Giovanni and Paolo, which is just a few steps from the city center.

Getting to Venice: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Venice

There are two airports near Venice:

Marco Polo International Airport
Treviso Airport

Bus Stations Near Venice

The bus station in Venice is located at Piazzale Roma.

Other Options

Water Taxis: A water taxi is the most glamorous way to arrive in Venice but is also the most expensive.
Trains: There are frequent trains from other parts of Italy that arrive at the Santa Lucia train station.

How to Get Around in Venice

The best way to get around Venice is on foot or by water taxi. The city is small and easily walkable, and boats and gondolas are readily available for hire at various points.

Where to Go Next from Venice: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Venice is a fantastic starting point for exploring the rest of Italy, including Verona, Lake Garda, and the Dolomites mountain range.

Conclusion

Venice is the perfect destination for anyone looking for a romantic vacation, with its winding canals, beautiful architecture, and rich culture and history. This comprehensive travel guide will help both first-time visitors and frequent travelers get the most out of their trip to Venice. From must-see attractions to budget-friendly accommodations, this guide has everything you need to plan an unforgettable journey to one of the most beautiful cities in the world.