The very existence of Venice is so unlikely that it almost seems magical, yet this city built on water continues to endure and enrapture. Spanning some 118 islands and with canals for streets, the city’s only means of wider transportation is by boat—but that restriction doesn’t limit the number of things to do in Venice. Tour the gems lining Piazza San Marco, cruise down the Grand Canal to take in ornate palaces and the Rialto Bridge, or strike out across the lagoon to watch master glassblowers on Murano.
The city is a year-round destination and especially lovely during the mild winter and early spring—the gray, foggy days and bursts of sunshine, with mist rising from the canals, make for an atmospheric visit. If you can, avoid high summer, when the tiny island overfills with tourists, and many people claim the lagoon takes on a rather unpleasant odor. Art lovers, meanwhile, should time their stay with the Venice Biennale, held once every two years in summer and fall.
Travelers generally have two options for getting around—by boat or by foot—although it’s possible to catch buses, taxis, and trams at the Piazzale Roma. A range of water bus and water taxi options are available, while gondolas offer a particularly scenic view of Venice. Although the main island is small, you can easily find yourself walking 45 minutes to an hour from one end to the other, so public transport is a great option for longer distances. You can purchase single day and 72-hour passes.
Many people arrive with long lists of things to do in Venice, from stops at the Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale) and Saint Mark’s Basilica (Basilica di San Marco) to the Peggy Guggenheim Collection. But there’s nothing more Venetian than the aperitivo hour. Make the most of this pre-dinner drink and snack time by grabbing some small plates (cicchetti) at one of the bustling bars that line the canals of Cannaregio, the city’s northernmost district. Most importantly, don’t rush; this is an experience to savor.
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One of those rare born-and-raised Venetians, Alvise now lives in London but retains an (entirely unbiased) love for his native city.
get lost in the districts of Santa Croce, Cannaregio, Castello, and Dorsoduro where you can experience the most authentic side of the city.
starts with breakfast in a café, is followed by lunch in the famous bacari where you can try Venetian tapas (cicheti), and ends with dinner at La Porta d’Acqua.
the Ducal Palace, where you can discover the history, art, and culture of Venice all in one place.
visit the Cannaregio district. It’s the best spot to experience true local life and food.
head to the rooftop of Fondaco dei Tedeschi in Rialto. Not only is it free, the views over the Grand Canal and Rialto Bridge are incredible.
is thinking that Venice is expensive. In non-touristic areas, even just a 10-minute walk from Rialto or San Marco, you can get an espresso for €1 ($1) and a Spritz for €2.50 ($2.50).
Picture Venice and one thing immediately comes to mind: its legendary canals. The Floating City was originally built more than 1,000 years ago, directly in the waters of the Venetian lagoon, and its vast network of canals is still used today to move people and goods through the city.
...MoreYes. Tour St. Mark’s Square and Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, and Bridge of Sighs on the first day. Then, get lost in Venice’s warren of canals, cruise along the Grand Canal, and visit the buzzing Rialto Market and surrounding San Polo neighborhood. On the third day, visit the islands of Murano and Burano.
...MoreThere is truly no other city on earth like Venice. Its vast network of canals, spanned by hundreds of pretty footbridges and lined with opulent historic palaces, is irresistibly picturesque. Add lavish Carnevale celebrations, a storied glass industry, and iconic gondolas and you have a captivating vacation.
...MoreVisitors to Venice make a beeline for St. Mark’s Square to admire the cathedral, Doge’s Palace, and Bridge of Sighs. One of the essential things to do in Venice is a Grand Canal cruise past the Rialto Bridge, as is a visit to the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute. You can even see a performance at the storied Teatro La Fenice opera house.
...MoreVenice is one of the most romantic destinations in Italy, especially when seen by gondola while gliding along the quiet canals. The city is especially lovely after sunset, a great time to take an after-hours tour of St. Mark’s Basilica or visit bacàro wine bars to sample traditional cicchetti appetizers.
...MoreNo visit to Venice is complete without a stroll through St. Mark’s Square to marvel at the cathedral and Doge’s Palace. While there, climb the bell tower to take in the City of Canals from above and splurge on a Bellini cocktail at one of the historic cafes lining the square.
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