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Venice was the most beautiful city I visited in Italy. Something about a disappearing city makes your trip feel enchanted. I’ll be back again soon to soak in the romance and mystery.
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Getting There:
To get to Venice, you take a train to the Venezia stop, and then take a shuttle, bus, or private driver across the bridge to the islands. Venice is made up of a bunch of tiny islands separated by canals and linked by bridges. The Grande Canal runs through the middle. The city’s water taxi has many stops along the Grande Canal, so you just hop on and off for a small fee to get around the city.
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Where To Stay:
I suggest staying somewhere in the San Marco area, which was my favorite area, and near the Grande Canal so you can easily get around the city. The city itself is relatively small so you can walk places easily.
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What To Do:
San Marco Basilica
The San Marco Basilica is a must-see. It’s just as beautiful inside as it is outside. Be sure to climb to the top and look out over the square.
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Piazza San Marco (Saint Mark’s Square)
Saint Mark’s Square is absolutely breathtaking at night. Pictures can’t do it justice. The lights along the old buildings reflect in the water rising in the center of the square. Orchestra’s play for couples sitting outside fancy restaurants. Be sure to walk around and take it all in.
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.Doges’ Palace
The Doges’ Palace is a Venetian landmark. Not only is it an architectural masterpiece, it holds lots of history. During your visit to Doges’ Palace, be sure to bring someone knowledgable with you to give you background. You may need a tour guide to get the most out of it.
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.Walking Tour
Venice is small enough to be easily walkable. Not to mention, it’s a beautiful and exciting city to explore by foot. There’s many small nuances to this city, so a walking tour is the best way to go. There are bridges, squares, and buildings that only a Venetian could show you.
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Where To Eat and Drink:
Canalside Restaurant with Gondola traffic
The gondola rides in Venice are pretty romantic, but they are very expensive. To avoid paying a ridiculous amount for a quick ride, you can experience the gondolas by eating dinner at a restaurant in which they pass by. You sit right next to the small canal, and the gondolas drive by with the singing men. It’s perfect.
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Harry’s Bar
This bar is home of the original Bellini, which means you have to try one here. However, it’s pretty expensive for a small drink, and it has a strict no photos policy since it often has very famous guests.
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Campo Santa Margherita Bars
The bars in this square are a ton of fun at night. My favorite was Orange Bar. These causal bars and pubs are perfect for letting off some travel tension in a laid back atmosphere.
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What To Bring:
- Camera! You can’t miss out on these awesome picture opportunities.
- For a complete list, check out my Italy packing guide.
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The Novice Nomad 