If you’re reading this blog post, chances are Venice is on your bucket list or you are planning to visit Italy soon! I visited Venice last summer and had the time of my life! I’m breaking down where to stay, what to eat, and what to do during your time in one of the most beautiful, compact places in the world! While it’s not an island on its own (rather 118 small islands), your only options getting around is boat and by foot, so lace up those shoes and let’s get started!
WHERE TO STAY:
We found an Airbnb located in a quieter neighborhood in the Santa Croce district, which we loved! This region was perfect for two nights and the homes there are within walking distance of both the San Marco and San Polo districts. Most of the sites we wanted to see were in those three districts!
WHERE TO EAT:
- SUSO Gelatoteca – This place is world famous and for good reason! They offer several different flavors of gelato, including Mango which was my favorite! Snap a photo of this instagram-worthy cone and you’ll make all your friends back home jealous!
- In the morning, if you aren’t staying at a hotel with complimentary breakfast, I recommend grabbing breakfast at La Lista Bistro. The waffle is well worth any walk you may have to take to get there!
- Make sure wherever you go, you stop for an “apertivo!” An apertivo is essentially a pre-meal drink specifically meant to prepare the appetite. I usually got a margarita or Aperol Spritz. The best part is it’s oftentimes served with little side dishes (olives, nuts, chips, trail mix) that will hold you over while walking around. We found great spots near the Rialto Bridge and our AirBnb, but most restaurants offer this option.
WHAT TO DO:
- First and foremost, get lost in the streets and canals of Venice. There are so many monuments to see and places to grab delicious pasta but wandering the streets had to be my favorite part. Whether you are a Type A traveler or not, you’ll need to let loose and see where the streets take you.
- For the best panoramic view of Venice, head to T Fondaco Rooftop. This terrace is somewhat of a hidden gem as it’s located on the roof of the Tedeschi Department Store. You must book tickets in advance! Time slots are reserved and only 70 people can be on the roof at a time. It’s free so be sure not to skip out on this!
- Set your sights on one of the most well-known and iconic landmarks in Venice: the Rialto Bridge. The bridge serves as a connection between the San Marco and San Polo districts and has a rich history to it. Today it’s home to rows of shops on both sides.
- Splurge and ride in a gondola! Before 7pm is the least expensive route to take, otherwise the prices go up at sunset. For a 30 minute ride, most gondolas will cost €100. If you want your gondolier to sing, it’ll usually cost another €20 – €30. If you are looking for a cheaper method, visit my blog post about visiting Italy on a budget. I have quite the hacks for you!
- Track down the legendary Acqua Alta Bookstore! This shop is flooded with every book you can imagine. The books are overflowing out of bathtubs, stacked throughout the stores, and even create a staircase on their patio! For any book lovers, you have to check this place out! Plus, they have cats roaming freely throughout.
- Watch the sunset in the St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco). This square is busy constantly but has some of Italy’s most intricately designed architecture. Wandering through, you will catch a view of San Giorgio Maggiore, a 16th century Benedictine church on a different island.
- Near the square, check out a nearby landmark: the Doge’s Palace. This is another building with details galore and a stunning interior. Reading about the history beforehand made me want to visit it even more!
DAY TRIPS FROM VENICE:
If you only have a short time in Venice, it is imperative you take a day trip to Burano, the most colorful island in Europe! Burano is a one hour boat ride from Venice (roughly $15 round trip) and is a sight to see. The small island, home to fishermen, is one of the most picturesque spots in Venice. It feels like walking through a coloring book and is a great spot for tourists who care about locals culture. You can anticipate spending at least 4 hours on the island traveling and exploring.
There you have it – the perfect itinerary when visiting Venice! For those of you who have been, what did I miss? I’m hoping to go back someday and explore the streets even more! Until next time, travel safely and take care of yourself!
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