Venice Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, and where to eat and stay in Venice, plus helpful tips on local culture, safety, and transportation options.


Introduction to Venice

Welcome to the City of Venice, a vibrant coastal town in Westside, Los Angeles, known for its iconic boardwalk, beautiful beaches, and stunning canals. With its eclectic mix of culture, history, entertainment, and gastronomy, Venice offers something for everyone, from history buffs and nature lovers to foodies and partygoers.

List of Places to Visit in Venice

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Venice is home to some fascinating historical and cultural attractions, including:

  • Venice Art Crawl
  • Venice Beach Boardwalk
  • Muscle Beach
  • Venice Canals
  • Abbot Kinney Boulevard
  • Venice Mural Wall
  • Venice High School

Whether you’re interested in art, history, or architecture, a visit to these iconic landmarks is a must.

Natural Attractions of Venice: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

If you’re looking to explore the great outdoors, here are some of the best natural attractions of Venice:

  • Venice Beach
  • Marina del Rey
  • Ballona Creek Bike Path
  • Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook

From beaches and bike paths to scenic overlooks and waterways, Venice has plenty of options to keep outdoor enthusiasts busy.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Venice

Venice boasts a variety of hiking and biking trails that are perfect for tourists of all levels of athleticism. The Ballona Creek Bike Path, Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, and Venice Canals Walkway are just a few highlights of the many great hiking and biking spots.

Best Things to Do in Venice: Activities and Tours

If you’re looking for activities and tours to do in Venice, these are the ones you can’t miss:

  • Bike Rentals
  • Venice Skatepark
  • California Dream Tours
  • Venice Beach Bazaar
  • Surf Lessons
  • Abbot Kinney Boulevard

Enjoy the best of Venice with exciting activities and engaging tours that will appeal to all age groups.

Week-Long Itinerary for Venice

To make the most out of your trip to Venice, here’s a week-long itinerary to give you a taste of everything that this beautiful city has to offer:

Day Activity
1 Venice Beach Boardwalk and Muscle Beach
2 Canals Walkway and Jetty Island
3 Santa Monica Beach and Pier
4 Los Angeles County Museum of Art and the Getty Center
5 Abbot Kinney Boulevard and Whiskey Tasting
6 Beverly Center and Sunset Strip
7 California Dream Tours and Venice Food Tour

Food and Drink Scene of Venice

Must-Try Dishes

Visitors to Venice absolutely must try these local dishes:

  • Gjusta Bakery’s Smoked Fish Plate
  • Tocaya Organica’s Burrata Bowl
  • Abbot’s Pizza Company’s Mexican Pizza
  • Venice Ale House’s Fish Tacos
  • Felix’s Spaghetti alla Chitarra

Local Beverages

No trip to Venice is complete without trying these local beverages:

  • All Time’s cold brew
  • Venice Ale House’s craft beer
  • Nighthawk’s seasonal cocktails

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

Venice offers a range of lodging options to suit all budgets, including:

  • Erwin Hotel
  • Boutique 444
  • Samesun Venice Beach
  • Hostelling International USA
  • The Kinney

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

If you’re looking for souvenirs and local products to bring home from Venice, these are a few ideas:

  • Venice Beach T-Shirts
  • Boardwalk Jewelry
  • Skateboard Deck
  • Abbot Kinney Boulevard Merchandise
  • Muscle Beach Sweatshirt

Local Culture and Customs of Venice

Venice is known for its laid-back, free-spirited, and inclusive vibe. Visitors should keep an open mind and be respectful of the local culture, which values diversity, creativity, and self-expression.

Best Time to Visit Venice

The best time to visit Venice is during the summer (June-August), when the weather is warm and sunny, and there are plenty of outdoor activities and events to enjoy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Venice

Do:

  • Do take advantage of the city’s outdoor activities, including biking, surfing, and hiking
  • Do explore the local art scene on Abbot Kinney Boulevard
  • Do try out the local cuisine and drinks
  • Do take a boat ride down the Venice Canals

Don’t:

  • Don’t bring your car to Venice
  • Don’t be disrespectful of the local culture
  • Don’t forget to bring sunscreen
  • Don’t forget to bring cash for street vendors and small shops

Safety and Health

Safety in Venice

Venice is a relatively safe city, but visitors should exercise caution, particularly at night, and avoid walking alone in secluded areas. As with any urban setting, it’s advisable to take precautions such as keeping your valuables out of sight and locking your car doors.

Health in Venice

Venice’s warm climate and proximity to the beach can pose some health risks, such as sunburn and dehydration. It’s important to use sunscreen, stay hydrated, and seek medical attention immediately in case of an emergency.

Getting to Venice: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Venice

Venice is served by many nearby airports, including:

  • Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
  • Bob Hope Airport (BUR)
  • Long Beach Airport (LGB)
  • John Wayne Airport (SNA)

Bus Stations Near Venice

  • Los Angeles Greyhound Station
  • Downtown Santa Monica Bus Station
  • Patsaouras Transit Plaza

Other Options

  • Car Rental Services
  • Taxis and Rideshare Services (Lyft, Uber)

How to Get Around in Venice

Venice offers many transportation options, including:

  • Biking and Walking
  • LA Metro Bus and Rail Lines
  • Car and Bike Rentals
  • Taxis and Rideshare Services

Where to Go Next from Venice: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore more of Southern California after your trip to Venice, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to add to your itinerary:

  • Santa Monica
  • Malibu
  • Hollywood
  • Universal Studios
  • Disneyland

Conclusion

Venice offers a unique mix of culture, history, and outdoor recreation that make it an ideal destination for travelers of all ages and interests. From the boardwalk and canals to the museums and restaurants, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy. We hope this travel guide has helped you plan your trip to Venice and made your trip a memorable experience.

Venice Canals Venice Canals