THE ULTIMATE VENICE TRAVEL GUIDE
There’s something very charming about Venice. It is one of those cities that is on nearly every European bucketlist and rightfully so. Imagine walking down little alleyways and encountering little canals everywhere you go. Enjoy a relaxing gondola ride with handsome Italian men serenading you. That is the life. And don’t even get me started on how gorgeous the islands of Burano and Murano are! The whole city is as picturesque as a postcard.
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HOW TO GET TO VENICE
Plane
Venice’s main international airport, Marco Polo, is one of the busiest in Italy. It is situated approximately an hour away from Venezia. To get into the city you can catch the train from the airport or jump on an ATVO blue bus. You can prebook a seat on the ATVO bus here.
You may also want to get into the city via Aliliguna’s water buses which connect Marco Polo airport to Piazza San Marco. This will cost about €15 and run all day. You can also pre book a water taxi transfer here.
Train
If you are already in Italy, the best way to arrive in Venice is by train to Venezia Santa Lucia Train Station. Some people may opt to stay at the cheaper Venice Mestre, which is the closest land station to Venezia.
Car
Please note Venice is not very accessible for cars. If you wish to drive, you wil lhave to park at one of these three parking lots:
- Garage San Marco
- Garage Autorimessa Comunale
- Garage Tronchetto
GETTING AROUND
The only real way to get around Venice is to walk. There are so many narrow streets and alleys to get lost in. Of course, you also can’t pass up a gondola ride (however these usually take you back to the same place you started).
If you want to head out to the islands, you will need to jump on a ferry.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
The best time to visit Venice is during the summer months of June-August, although these are also the most expensive and busy months. You will need to book way in advance if you want to stay in the heart of the city.
If crowds aren’t your thing, September-November is a good time to visit; however, the temperatures do get quite chilly.
RECOMMENDED STAY TIME
I would recommend you stay 2-3 days in Venice. This is enough time to enjoy the city and visit the surrounding islands.
TOP TRAVEL TIPS
Get lost in the city
The absolute best way to enjoy Venice is to simply get lost in all the little alleyways. You’ll discover plenty of hidden gems from little boutique stores to great restaurants.
Where you stay is important
Venice can be expensive, especially in Summer during peak season. If you want to be right in with all the action then be prepared to fork out some $$. The most central area to stay is somewhere close to the Rialto Bridge. San Paolo, San Marco & Santa Croce are the most popular areas to stay, but come with the hefty price tag.
If you want something cheaper, then consider staying in Venice Mestre on the mainland of Italy. It is only a short bus or train ride into Venice but will be considerably cheaper and easier on the wallet.
Avoid dining at St Mark’s Square
As with most cafes and restaurants near tourist attractions, the ones in St Mark’s Square are no exception when it comes to being overpriced and underwhelming. You pay for the location, not the food. Venture to more discreet locations as that is where you will find the most delicious and authentic Italian food!
Party at Carnavale
Carnavale is the most famous festival in Venice and happens every February. People come from all over the world to witness this Catholic celebration and join in the fun of the masquerade.
WHAT TO DO
Take a gondola ride
Whilst it may sound touristy, you can’t go to Venice and not enjoy the sights from the water whilst having an Italian man sing songs!
Gondolas have standardised pricing throughout the city. It is approximately €80 for 1/2hr and the price can be shared among everyone in the boat. If it is too expensive for a small group, opt to join another group to make the price cheaper.
Piazza San Marco
Piazza San Marco (St Mark’s Square) is the most famous square in Venice and one of the biggest tourist attractions in Venice. Even if you don’t purposely head here, you will most probably find yourself arrive here at least once whilst wandering the streets.
Basilica Cattedral Patriarcale di San Marco
At the eastern end you will find the incredible St Mark’s Basilica. This cathedral was built in 1063 and has intricate gold details. The lines to get a glimpse inside can be very long, so if you are short on time and have some money to spare, consider taking this tour.
Entrance into the basilica is €3. It is open between 09:30-17:15 every day with last admission at 16:45. The Bell Tower is open from 09:30-21:15 every day with a €10 entrance fee.
Palazzo Ducale
Palazzo Ducale, also known as Doge’s Palace, is also located in Piazza San Marco adjacent to the cathedral. This is the palace of the former ruler of Venice and is home to incredible art. This is one of the most popular attractions in Venice, so be prepared and buy your reserved entry admission ticket beforehand. You may also want to combine Doge’s Palace and St Mark’s Basilica, then book this skip-the-line tour.
Ponte Rialto
Crossing the Rialto Bridge is one of the most popular things to do in Venice. This is one of the two bridges crossing the Grand Canal and a great opportunity for a photo.
Bridge of Sighs
The Bridge of Sighs has a very interesting history. It was built to connect Doge’s Palace to the prison and is named the “Bridge of Sighs” as it was the prisoner’s last glimpse of Venice before being imprisoned or executed. You can see the Bridge of Sighs by heading over to Ponte della Paglia.
The Islands of Murano & Burano
Quite possibly my favourite activity to do in Venice is to take a day trip to the small islands of Murano and Burano. Both islands are easily reached by public Vaporetto. Buy a day ticket to see both in one day. I decided to book this tour to get the most out of my day.
Murano is famous for its handblown glass. Make sure you see the glass blowers in action. They create stunning pieces of art in a matter of minutes – it is truly incredible to watch! Spend the rest of your time wandering around the island and buy some authentic Murano glass souvenirs.
Burano is a gorgeous fishing town famous for its colourful houses. I could spend hours wandering through this little town and popping into the cute shops. It’s a photographer’s paradise. You can even buy some of the handcrafted lace that Burano is famous for!
