travel expert venice

How to spend a vibrant weekend in Venice

An insider guide to 48 hours in the city on water – and how to swerve the crowds

There are days when visitors to this exquisite jewel box of a city outnumber locals two-to-one, and when getting from the station to St Mark's square is a battle. But despite this, Venice never loses its capacity to enchant: stepping out of the station to be greeted by a glittering canal with the dome of San Simeon Piccolo beyond remains heart-stopping, whether you're doing it for the first time or the 100th.

Even at peak visitor periods, the worst excesses can be avoided and you're never more than a bridge away from secluded Venice with its quiet campi (squares), churches concealing luminous Madonnas, handsome Gothic palazzi – and bustling neighbourhood hangouts.

Because there's more to Venice than peerless artistic riches from centuries past: it's also a hive of contemporary activity. Beyond the alternating Art and Architecture Biennale shows which showcase all that's cutting edge internationally, the city's dwindling population works hard to keep contemporary Venice creative, productive and very vibrant.

For further inspiration, explore our guides to the city's best  hotels , restaurants , nightlife , shopping , attractions and free things to do . 

In this guide:

How to spend your weekend, insider tips.

When should I visit Venice?

Where to stay in Venice

What to bring home

Essential information: what to know before you go

Start the day in Da Bonifacio, a tiny café with a lovely crazy-paving mosaic floor, hidden away behind the Doge's Palace. The coffee's good – ask for the very Venetian  macchiatone  if you like the idea of a cappuccino with less milk – and it's difficult to resist cakes like the  pasta con le mandorle  (almond slice).

The wondrous, mosaic-studded interior of Venice's mother church,  St Mark's Basilica  doesn't open to visitors until 9.30am (2.30pm on Sunday), but anyone is welcome to attend morning mass. Take your pick between the 8am and 10am slots. On Sundays and feast days the 10am event is a sung mass in the central nave, and there's nothing like plainsong to bring out the magic of St Mark's. Afterwards, visit the  Museum of St Mark's , which affords spectacular views over the piazza; entry is €7.

If you are looking for a properly Venetian lunch experience, with traditional dishes such as  bigoli in salsa (thick spaghetti in anchovy and onion sauce) or sardine in saor (sweet and sour sardines), Al Portego  will deliver. There are only a handful of tables – so book – plus space to perch at the bar and graze on a wide selection of ciccheti (bar snacks), which is what locals do.

Take a stroll through the Castello district, leaving the tourist hordes behind, until you reach the  Scuola di San Giorgio degli Schiavoni . After the opulence of St Mark's, indulge in one of the city's most charmingly intimate cultural draws: an early 16th-century cycle of paintings by local artist Vittore Carpaccio narrating episodes from the life of Dalmatia's three patron saints, George, Tryphon and Jerome. The paintings are emerging from the gloom in their glorious original colours thanks to an on-going restoration programme financed by Save Venice Inc. Find more of the best things to do in the city in  our guide.

Head back west towards the Rialto Bridge. For a breathtaking view, pop into the glitzy Fondaco dei Tedeschi shopping mall and take the escalator up to the roof terrace. Afterwards, cross the Rialto Bridge to the market area, and join the fun by grabbing a spritz at hole-in-the-wall bar Al Mercà , and munching on a few ciccheti –   go for baccalà mantecato  (creamed salt cod), mantis prawns, or  schie  (small grey shrimps). 

Wrap the day up by hopping back on vaporetto 1 towards piazzale Roma, and disembark at San Marcuola. From here, wend your way through narrow alleys to the delightfully untouristy northern stretches of Cannaregio, where funky trattoria Anice Stellato  does excellent creative Venetian cuisine, along with good-value house wines. Find more of the best restaurants in Venice in our guide.

Enjoy a morning stroll along the scenic Riva degli Schiavoni waterfront promenade and hop on the number 2 vaporetto at the San Marco – San Zaccaria stop. Get off at the island of San Giorgio Maggiore , and take the lift to the top of the church's 18th-century campanile to enjoy a spectacular view of Venice and its lagoon.

Take the number 2 again and get off at Zattere, from where it's a short walk to the Accademia gallery , a vast repository of magnificent Old Masters. Look out for Vittore Carpaccio’s frantic Miracle of the Cross at the Rialto. The bridge has changed but the water-borne confusion beneath is instantly recognisable.

If the Tintorettos and Bellinis don't do for you, the Peggy Guggenheim Collection  offers a more modern roster of works by mostly European artists from Picasso to Matisse, assembled by the eccentric American heiress in the mid-20th century. The gallery's pretty, artsy café is a sophisticated spot for a tea or coffee break. The garden's lovely too.

When hunger calls, make a beeline back to the Zattere and chalet bar El Chioschetto , where you can sit outside watching the boats ply the Giudecca Canal while munching on a piadina – a sort of flatbread pizza – or a salad.

No Venetian day would be complete without an hour or so of downtime where you just wander without a real destination. Dorsoduro is a good place to indulge the habit. This artsy, studenty district is full of quirky shops such as mask-making workshop Ca' Macana , where Stanley Kubrick went to get the masks for his film Eyes Wide Shut.

A short walk away in campo San Polo, the Gothic I Frari church contains truly sumptuous artworks. Titian's dramatic, intensely spiritual Assumption of the Virgin (dating to 1518) over the high altar dominates. Find more of the best free things to do in Venice in our guide.

The area between Frari and Zattere – in particular campo Santa Margherita and the narrow streets behind San Pantalon – is a fashionable but secluded evening favourite for those in the know. Favourites include aperitivo haunts  Malvasia all'Adriatico Mar  and  Estro Vino e Cucina , run by a young group with a passion for natural wine and a Slow Food approach to eating. Find more of the best bars and cafés in Venice in our guide.

Neighbourhood watch

When monumental Venice overwhelms, head for the gloriously residential Sant’Elena district. Sip a spritz at Vincent Bar , watching children in the park and boats chugging across the lagoon to the Lido.

Avoid hassle and save (a little) money by pre-booking your airport transfers, vaporetto travel pass and entry to galleries and attractions through  Venezia Unica . Remember too that on designated extra-busy days in 2024 you'll need to book your entrance to Venice and, unless exempted, pay a fee of €5: see the website for details and payment.

Attractions

Behind the splendour of the Doge’s Palace lie inquisitors’ courts and drear dungeons. Visit them on a  'secret itineraries'  tour.

Did you know?

The Rialto market is Venice’s number one venue for fresh produce but there are also two boat market stalls in this watery city. Fresh produce floats in campo San Barnaba and at the far eastern end of via Garibaldi.

Getting around

The Vaporetti Linea Uno waterbus remains the best way to take in the architectural highlights of this remarkable city.  Pick your time carefully before boarding the accelerato at Piazzale Roma, where it meets passengers from buses, coaches, cars, taxis and trams impatient for San Marco. (Early mornings and evenings are the best time to travel and enjoy the whole trip along the canal.) The best seats are in the open stern. To bag them, make sure you are at the front of the queue, or else let the crowd push past and wait for the next one. It will be along in 10 minutes. 

Aperitivi at the Hilton Molino Stucky 's Skyline roof bar are not cheap but the superb sunset view that goes with them comes absolutely free.

Venice is a unique, magical place 365 days a year. But much of the time you'll be sharing that magic with thousands of other visitors. Numbers peak in summer, despite the heat, humidity and swarms of mosquitoes. Spring and autumn are much more pleasant months. I especially like late autumn (mid-October to mid-November) when, if you're lucky with the weather, it can still be warm enough to eat outside. But my favourite season of all is winter, a time of misty vistas when tourists are few and far between, rooms are cheap and the city is reclaimed by Venetians.

An exception is Carnevale, in the two weeks leading up to Shrove Tuesday (February/March), which brings in hordes of revellers and sends accommodation prices through the roof. Other regular annual events include the June-November Art Biennale (even years) and Architecture Biennale (odd years), the Film Festival (10 days end of August to early September) and local festivities like the Festa del Redentore on the third weekend in July, when the city and lagoon are lit up by fireworks.

Where to stay

Luxury living.

Gritti Palace, a 15th-century palazzo, is situated on the most eye-catching stretch of the Grand Canal, looking across the water to Santa Maria della Salute and to the Palazzo Venier dei Leoni, home to the Peggy Guggenheim Collection. The entire building, including the rooms, house hundreds of precious paintings and other artefacts. Staff are charming and there's a small spa. The Club del Doge restaurant has one of the most beautiful dining rooms in this or any other city.

Boutique bolthole

An effortlessly elegant mix of antique and modern, the five-room Cima Rosa is the extremely stylish creation of an Italian architect and American decorator couple. Rooms and suites are all beautifully decorated in Farrow & Ball pastels that pick up Venice's water colours and enhance the classic-contemporary elegance. The sateen bed linen is luxurious; the well-equipped bathrooms are delightful. Three rooms have Grand Canal views.

Budget beauty

Rooms in the main part of the  Al Ponte Mocenigo cluster around a delightful courtyard with ancient columns and a lovely antique well head. The look is classic Venetian with a contemporary twist; the feel is laid-back and very friendly. An annexe has eight more rooms but has less of the affable air generated by the outdoor space, Turkish bath, and bar and front desk facilities next door.

Every Italian region has its signature pasta, and in Venice it's bigoli . This fat spaghetti was originally made with buckwheat and duck eggs and is served with anchovies and onion ('in salsa'). Pick up brightly coloured boxes of Bigoli de Bassan at Drogheria Mascari .

Those soft velvet-topped slippers worn by gondoliers are called furlane . At Piedàterre , beneath the arches at the foot of the Rialto bridge, the tradition has been preserved and updated. Take home a brightly coloured pair for around €110 (£95).

Know before you go

Essential information.

• British Embassy in Rome:  (00 39 06 4220 0001;  ukinitaly.fco.gov.uk ). There is no longer a British consulate in Venice. The Milan consulate (via San Paolo 7) is open 9am-12.30pm, 2-4pm Mon-Fri, or call during office hours on 00 39 02 723 001
• Emergency services:  112 (Carabinieri); 113 (State Police)
• Currency:  Euro. Most cashpoint machines work with international cards, via the Cirrus circuit
• International dialing codes:  Dial 00 39 041 for Venice numbers from abroad, 041 from inside Italy. Dial 00 to get an international line, followed by the country code
• Time difference:  Venice is one hour ahead of GMT/BST
• Flight time:  London to Venice is around two hours

About our expert

Anne has lived in Italy for almost 40 years – first in Rome, now deep in the Umbrian countryside. But her first love is Venice, where she still manages to lose herself in the beautiful backstreets. 

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15 Best Things to Do in Venice

By Andrea Whittle

You'll find part of the appeal of Venice in its layers and contrasts: There are plenty of beautifully preserved palaces, churches and glorious renaissance masterpieces to be sure, but there are also abandoned Byzantine shipyards used to display the world's most cutting edge contemporary art, and house museums that now host avant garde poetry readings and dance shows. It's all about the mix of crumbling old world glamour and mysterious chic. Yes, it's a major tourist town, but with this list of the best things to do, we've tried to guide you towards the stuff that's really worth seeing, be it on everyone's hit list or more of a low-key secret.

St. Mark’s Basilica Arrow

The cathedral anchoring St. Mark's square is so over-the-top beautiful it almost looks imaginary, like a church in a storybook. Outside, it's all Byzantine domes and columns and lions and angels; inside, it's aglow with glittering, gilded mosaics. For those just interested in the architecture, you can visit when there's not a mass in session (it's still very much a functioning church, with regular services), but check the website for the latest on the sometimes-nonsensical opening hours. Also know that, because it's in the Times Square of Venice, the church has had to start limiting crowds in recent years and there's often a long line. Make plans to go early.

Palazzo Fortuny Arrow

Palazzo Fortuny, a Gothic palazzo, was once the home of Mariano Fortuny, the artist, stage designer, and textile designer behind Fortuny Fabrics, which still turns out luxurious damask silks, cut velvets and printed cottons today. As a museum, it's a tribute to his opulent and eclectic taste: Rooms, draped in a patchwork of luxurious textiles or painted in floor-to-ceiling frescoes, are filled with art, antiques, and decor from his collection.

Venetian Arsenal Arrow

Arsenale di Venezia, a massive Byzantine armory and shipyard, was originally built in the 12th century, and it served as the Venetian military HQ for centuries afterwards. Now, its cavernous halls and landscaped gardens are used as one of the main venues for the Biennale, as well as the city's Naval Museum. During the Biennale, the Arsenale is filled with curators, collectors, tourists, and artists checking out the exhibition or relaxing on one of the lawns overlooking the harbor.

Giardini della Biennale Arrow

Every two years, during the Art Biennale, Giardini della Biennale, the leafy garden at the edge of the city, transforms into the Epcot of the art world. Maritime pines and gravel pathways conjoin a series of small pavilions, each pertaining to a different country, and each with its own architectural style. At all other times, the park is simply a beautiful, secluded, walkable, mostly tourist-free green space, with views of the canal and plenty of benches. Getting here is a bit of a trek though though; the park is about a 30-minute walk from San Marco, so if you're there in the heat of summer, consider taking the vaporetto (water bus).

Steph Koyfman

Shannon McMahon

Charlie Hobbs

Gallerie dell'Accademia Arrow

Gallerie dell'Accademia is Venetian Renaissance 101. Name an important painter from the era—Titian, Canaletto, Bellini, Bosch, Tiepolo—and you can bet you'll find it here, spread among rooms as decadent as the paintings themselves. The collection spans the 13th to 17th centuries and consists mostly of works created in and around Venice. There are a lot of oil paintings, many of them religious masterpieces that have been beautifully restored and displayed. Particularly fun are the historical scenes of Venice, which offer a sense of the city's chaos during its heyday as a merchant capital.

Caffè Florian Arrow

Caffè Florian, in Piazza San Marco, has been open since 1720. In the early days, it was a watering hole for the likes of Proust, Dickens, and Casanova. Now, it's a tourist spot, sure—but it's a charming, beautiful, and an inarguably romantic one. Musicians (which you're paying for by the way—a fee will show up on your bill) play in the square out front, and patrons cluster around low marble tables, sipping hot chocolate and picking delicate pastries off silver trays. For first-timers to Venice, Florian is a glamorous place to stop and refuel.

Church of San Giorgio Maggiore Arrow

The main attraction on San Giorgio Maggiore, a small island next to Giudecca, is the church designed by Andrea Palladio, which has a bell tower with some of the best views in the city. But there are also multiple art foundations, including Fondazione Cini and Le Stanze del Vetro, worth checking out as well. Since the island is only reachable by boat, there's built-in crowd control, making it a perfect choice if you're looking to escape the San Marco fray.

Teatro La Fenice Arrow

The name of Teatro La Fenice, a landmark opera house, means "The Phoenix"—a nod to the fact that it's literally risen from the ashes not once, but three times, most recently after two arsonists burned down everything but the exterior walls in 1996. But it's been rebuilt and restored to its former glory (complete with its world-famous acoustics) by a team of architects and artists who sought to recreate every inch of the way it looked and felt in the 19th century.

Peggy Guggenheim Collection Arrow

This squat palazzo on the Grand Canal was once the home of the eccentric gallerist and collector Peggy Guggenheim, who played a big part in the careers of artists like Jackson Pollock, Max Ernst, and Alberto Giacometti. Today the eponymous museum still maintains the feeling of a private house. Most of the work on display was collected by Guggenheim during her lifetime—and it's some of the best art of the 20th century. In the entryway, two Picassos hang next to a Calder mobile. There are rooms filled with Kandinskys and Brancusis and Pollocks and Dalis. One mantlepiece is lined with Joseph Cornell boxes.

Fondazione Prada Arrow

This gloriously crumbling Baroque palazzo is the Venetian headquarters of Fondazione Prada. Much like the Italian fashion brand's designs, the artistic programming is bold, contemporary, and innovative. There is no permanent collection; instead, the three main floors of the palazzo are used as a project space for immersive exhibitions that often run concurrently with the Biennale. Sometimes, the foundation invites multiple artists to build installations that interact with the architecture; otherwise, curators will utilize every inch of the space to display a survey by one artist.

Pinault Collection Arrow

The contemporary art collection of French billionaire Francois Pinault is split between two Venetian venues: Palazzo Grassi, near the Accademia bridge, and Punta Della Dogana, the former customs house at the tip of Dorsoduro. Both are pretty spectacular, and they present a rotating program of blockbuster exhibitions. The shows at Palazzo Grassi tend to focus on a single living artist, giving them full reign of multiple floors as well as the massive central atrium. Across the canal, Punta Della Dogana usually goes wider, with thematic shows featuring work by multiple artists.

Doge’s Palace Arrow

Palazzo Ducale, an opulent gothic palace overlooking Saint Mark's Square, was the city's government seat (and the Doge's home) from the 14th to 18th centuries. It's been rebuilt and expanded over the years, so it's really a conglomeration of multiple buildings and styles—pretty much all of them over-the-top and glamorous. Visitors have access to various ballrooms, the Doge's former apartments, the grand inner courtyard, and the former prisons. It's run as a museum, so tickets are required.

Fondazione Querini Stampalia Arrow

Part 19th-century house museum, part contemporary exhibition space, part architecture nerd's dream garden, Fondazione Querini Stampalia is a microcosm of everything that's fascinating about Venice. The collection spans centuries and defies categorization: Renaissance paintings by the likes of Bellini and Tiepolo are displayed next to antique instruments, gilded French porcelain is laid out carefully on lace-trimmed tablecloths, and perfectly fluffed pillows sit on gleaming Louis XVI chairs. The garden, designed by the architect Carlo Scarpa in the 1960s, is a maze of geometric fountains and a serene lawn.

Mercato di Rialto Arrow

The fruit, vegetable, and fish market near the Rialto Bridge has been running for hundreds of years, and it's still where local chefs and home cooks come to stock their kitchens. Depending on the season, you'll find local cherries and peaches, artichokes and Treviso radicchio grown on nearby islands, and soft shell crabs and eels pulled straight from the lagoon. The produce market runs from 7:30 am to 1 pm every day except Sunday; the fish market is open those same hours, but Tuesday through Saturday.

Scuola Grande di San Rocco Arrow

Scuola Grande di San Rocco, an ornate Venetian "scuola" (the headquarters of a religious guild), is home to some of the Renaissance painter Tintoretto's best works, which cover the ceilings and walls of the building's two floors. Every inch of this place is decorated: In addition to the more than 60 paintings depicting scenes from the bible, floors are a geometric array of polished stones, every molding is intricately carved and/or gilded, and every wrought-iron lamp is as big as a person.

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Imagine the audacity of building a city of marble palaces on a lagoon – and that was only the start.

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Scuola Grande di San Rocco

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Why Go To Venice

Venice is enchanting. Yes, that may be cliché to say, but once you see the city on the water for yourself, you'll surely agree. Step out of the Santa Lucia train station and the breathtaking  Grand Canal  will soon greet you. You'll see water taxis coast along, passing underneath the  Ponte degli Scalzi  (Bridge of the Barefoot) and might hear the faintest hint of a serenading violin, or is that your imagination? It might not be all in your head. Romantic gondolas carrying smitten couples glide through the web of the city's many waterways, and gondola drivers are known to sing when the moment feels right. On land, narrow passageways twist past Old World storefronts and residences, and over bridges. You should note that maps aren't all that helpful here and getting lost is the norm – embrace the disorientation, or enlist the help of a local by signing up for one of the best Venice tours . 

This canal-clad city's main draw is its magical atmosphere, but you'll also find quite a few diversions, too: The tour guides at  St. Mark's Basilica  and the  Doge's Palace  give some great historical insight; the  Gallerie dell'Accademia  hangs works by Titian, Veronese and other famed Venetians; and the  Teatro La Fenice  puts on some world-renowned operas. You can also travel to nearby islands like Lido for the beach, Murano for the well-known glass and Burano for its lace. 

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• # 2 in Best Day Trips from Florence
• # 4 in Best Places to Visit in Italy
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Best of Venice

Best hotels in venice.

• # 1 in The Gritti Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Venice
• # 2 in JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa
• # 3 in Hotel Cipriani, A Belmond Hotel, Venice

Best Things to Do in Venice

• # 1 in St. Mark's Basilica (Basilica di San Marco)
• # 2 in Grand Canal
• # 3 in Gondola Rides

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Venice Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit Venice is from September to November when tourists desert the city. Although the temperatures – which range from the upper 30s to mid-70s – necessitate some layers, the lowered hotel rates and the barren canals make it worth it. Winters are cold with temperatures in the 30s and 40s, while spring brings Venice's most beautiful weather. Summertime is peak season and is characterized by high hotel rates, high temperatures and – you guessed it – plenty of crowds. Although acqua alta  (high water) can occur anytime between late September and April, it's most likely to happen in November and December, so make sure to pack a pair of rain boots if you plan on traveling then. 

Weather in Venice

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

Budget for the tourist entry fee  Starting Jan. 16, 2023, travelers visiting Venice for the day will have to pay an entry fee ranging from 3 to 10 euros (about $3 to $10) per person 6 years and older. Tickets can be reserved online via the city's booking platform, and prices will be determined by ticket demand. Visitors staying overnight do not have to pay the fee as city accommodations already include a tourist tax in the nightly rate. Fines for not paying the entry fee range from 50 to 300 euros (about $50 to $300). 

Rise with the sun  At least once during your trip, you should wake up early and walk to Piazza San Marco for one of the world's best sunrises.

Coincide with a festival  Carnival (held in January and early February) and the International Film Festival (in August and early September) breathe extra life into this romantic destination.

How to Save Money in Venice

Stick to walking  You can enjoy the Venetian ambiance by walking rather than taking a boat, and you'll save quite a few euros, too.

Stick to the bus  Take an ATVO bus or one of the Alilaguna water buses from the Venice airport into Venice proper instead of a water taxi. You'll pay between 8 and 15 euros (around $10 to $18) for the bus ride instead of more than 100 euros (around $120) for the water taxi.

Book in advance  Gondola rides are a must in Venice, yet they're quite expensive. If you aren't traveling with a group, or don't want to share with strangers to split the cost, tour companies often offer rides for less. Find out more in our guide to the best Venice tours .

Culture & Customs

Unlike  Rome , Venice's economy is largely dependent on its very strong tourism industry. So, keep in mind that you'll likely be sharing your Venice trip with loads of other vacationers.

To Italians, everything from a person's dress to his or her actions and manners should be beautiful, or  bella figura.  First impressions are especially lasting for Italians, who, while warm and helpful, do hold outward appearances in very high regard. Dressing well will sometimes even be rewarded by better and more prompt service.  

Bella figura  does not stop with physical presentation as it extends into a person's manners and conduct. Avoid being obnoxiously loud or ostentatious, as this is greatly looked down on as  brutta figura . Learning some Italian and attempting to use it will win you points with Italians, who are generally patient and happy to help you learn more. In any kind of store or restaurant, it's appropriate to greet and say goodbye to employees – even if you do not buy anything – with a  ciao and  arrivederci , respectively. Wherever you go, remember your manners and don't forget your pleases,  per favore , and thank yous,  grazie .

Residents generally speak Italian with a Venetian dialect, which can be unrecognizable – even to native Italian speakers.  Ca,  a shortened form of the word "casa," is used to describe many private residences and palaces. A street or  calle   in Venice, (pronounced ka-lay), is different from the " via " or " strada " streets elsewhere in Italy.

Similar to the rest of Italy, many Venetian businesses and tourist attractions take Sundays and at least one other day off, though it fluctuates from place to place. During the week, some also take a midday siesta after lunch hours.

Meals in Italy are expected to last long and it's very common for patrons to linger. So don't be surprised when your server does not bring your bill the minute you finish your meal. In fact, you will not get your bill,  il conto , until you ask for it. When you do receive it, remember there is a service charge, or  servizo , included, and sometimes a coperto , or cover charge. Italians don't tip, so you don't have to either. Also keep in mind that water and bread are usually not free at meals. If you ask for water, your server will ask you to specify whether you prefer tap water,  acqua di rubinetto ; flat water,  acqua naturale ; or sparkling water,  acqua frizzante  or  acqua con gas . Also be aware that Venetians tend to eat dinner by 7:30, and many Venice restaurants close their kitchens by 10 p.m. As is the case throughout Italy, Venice's official currency is the euro. Since the euro to U.S. dollar exchange rate fluctuates, be sure to check what the current exchange rate is before you go. Major credit cards are accepted at most restaurants and shops.

What to Eat

With such close proximity to the water, it should come as no surprise that fish is the main component of Venetian cuisine. Cuttlefish ( sepia ), clams ( vongole),  and sea bass ( branzino ) are popular ingredients, which can be found in many of the area's most well-known dishes, including  frutti di mare , Venice’s take on a seafood salad.  Tramezzini  is a tasty Venetian street food: These triangular sandwiches, with a range of fillings from cheese to meats, can be found at cafes throughout the city. Wash it all down with  prosecco , a sparkling white wine from the Veneto region. Some of the best Venice tours were designed with foodies in mind. Sign up for a tour if you'd like help navigating the dining scene from a local.

For the best bang for your buck, try to avoid the San Marco area or any establishment that solicits tourists off the street. Instead, try one of the smaller establishments – such as traveler-recommended Ristorante La Caravella – tucked away on one of the many hidden side streets. Locals frequent establishments like Paradiso Perduto, near the Jewish Ghetto , for its long wooden tables and vibrant atmosphere. The farm-to-table Ostaria Boccadoro is another popular haunt. You could also dine at a  bacaro , a smaller wine bar with lower prices, authentic cuisine and more character. Traveler favorites include Cantina Do Spade, Alla Ciurma and Cantina Do Mori.

Venice is considered a very safe destination. However, as is the case with most popular tourist destinations, the city can be a magnet for pickpocket crimes. Keep a watchful eye on your belongings, especially around crowded areas of the city, such as Piazza San Marco and on any of the waterbuses. Travel experts say that you can walk Venice's dark alleys at midnight and still be safe, but you might get lost considering how often street names change. Still, getting lost is part of the allure of a Venice vacation. Keep in mind that there's no way to walk off of Venice: The compilation of islands is surrounded by a lagoon. You should also note that signs with the word "Per," an arrow and an attraction name are pointing you in the right direction. You shouldn't pay attention to graffiti directions, which may or may not have been written to confuse tourists.

Getting Around Venice

The best way to get around Venice is by foot. Although the city's labyrinth of canals and weaving roads can complicate things, getting lost is the best way to discover the city's famed allure. You can traverse the canals by  vaporetto  or water bus/ferry (relatively affordable), water taxi (pretty pricey) or gondola (very expensive). 

To get from the Marco Polo Airport (VCE) to central Venice, you should take an ATVO bus (the Venice Airport Bus Express) or Alilaguna water bus. If you – like many other travelers – choose to take the train from other Italian or European cities, you'll be dropped off at the Venezia Santa Lucia train station, where you can take a  vaporetto to your accommodations . Driving is not an option here – even the police use boats to get around. However, if you'd like to rent a car, there are several companies located at the airport.

Entry & Exit Requirements

A passport with at least six months of remaining validity is required for United States citizens traveling outside the mainland by air or sea, as well as for U.S. citizens trying to re-enter the country. U.S. citizens do not need a visa unless they plan on staying longer than 90 days. Visit the U.S. State Department's  website  for the latest information on foreign exit and entry requirements.

The Basilica di San Marco exudes opulence from every corner.

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Things To Do

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Carlo DeSando

Wonderful Time in Italy We were covered from the moment we landed in Rome. The drivers were great, the connections were flawless, and it was well-planned a...

Venice has been depicted and described so often that on arriving in the city you might have the slightly anticlimactic feeling that everything looks exactly as expected. The Canal Grande’s water-lapped palaces are indeed as picturesque as the coffee-table books made them out to be, Piazza San Marco is as perfect as a film set, and the panorama from the Palazzo Ducale is more or less as Canaletto painted it. Any sense of familiarity quickly fades, however, as you start to look around: seeing a stack of furniture being hoisted from a barge up to a top-floor window, or someone fishing knee- deep in the lagoon a hundred metres from dry land, you understand that life here is not like life anywhere else. And the more closely you look, the more fascinating Venice becomes.

Venice: a city shaped by history and water

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Founded on a cluster of mudflats in the heart of the lagoon 1,500 years ago, Venice emerged as Europe's principal exchange between the West and the East. At its zenith, it commanded an empire stretching north to the Dolomites and across the sea to Cyprus. The city's wealth and population swelled, densifying its urban fabric amidst a unique blend of nature and man-made marvels. 

Today, the historical centre, comprising roughly a hundred islets , leaves no space undeveloped, no street or square without a trace of Venice's illustrious past. It's common to stumble upon medieval remnants in even the most hidden alleyways, embedding the city's rich lineage into its very walls.

Yet, Venice's melancholic charm partly stems from the contrast between its historic grandeur and its current state. Once home to 200,000 residents during the Venetian Republic's golden age, the city's population has significantly dwindled. It was a bustling metropolis, attracting merchants from across the globe, its economy setting continental benchmarks from the Rialto's banks and bazaars. 

The Arsenale's vast workforce could construct a warship in a day, and Piazza San Marco was a perpetual hub of commerce and governance. Now, Venice stands as a testament to its spectacular heritage, its survival heavily reliant on those drawn to its enduring legacy.

 San Marco square from the water © Shutterstock

Venice, a city spread across 118 islands, is interlinked by 435 bridges into six districts known as sestieri. The city's cultural richness extends to over fifty churches and revered institutions like the Scuola Grande di San Rocco and the Scuola di San Giorgio degli Schiavoni, showcasing masterpieces by Tintoretto and Carpaccio.

You can't see everything, and we don't suggest you try, so here's a list of things we think, you need to visit!

Editors tip : make sure to read the 20 best things to do in Venice .

#1 Admire the Basilica di San Marco

San Marco is the most exotic of Europe’s cathedrals, and it has always provoked strong reactions. To Herman Melville, it was beautiful and insubstantial – as though “the Grand Turk had pitched his pavilion here for a summer’s day”. Mark Twain adored it for its “entrancing, tranquillizing, soul-satisfying ugliness”.

Herbert Spencer found it “a fine sample of barbaric architecture”; and to John Ruskin, it was the most gorgeous of holy places, a “treasure-heap…a confusion of delight”.

The Basilica di San Marco is certainly confusing, increasingly so as you come nearer and the details emerge, but some knowledge of the building’s background helps bring a little order out of the chaos.

Tips from Martina

Italy Travel Expert

"Don't just visit our famed canals, but also visit the cities less trodden paths. Delve into the serene atmosphere of the Cannaregio district, a treasure trove of local life, far from the crowd. Here, the authentic Venetian lifestyle unfolds in quiet squares and along peaceful canals".

St. Mark's Basilica and St.Mark's Campanile above the San Marco Square in Venice © Shutterstock

Grand Canal, Venice, Italy © Apple Kullathida/Shutterstock

#2 Embrace the art in Scuola di San Giorgio degli Schiavoni

Venice has two brilliant cycles of pictures by Vittore Carpaccio – one is in the Accademia, and the other is in the Scuola di San Giorgio degli Schiavoni, which sits beside a canal to the south of San Francesco.

By the mid-fifteenth century, though, Venice’s Slavic inhabitants were sufficiently established for a scuola to be set up to protect their interests. After several years of meeting in the church of San Giovanni di Malta, the scuola built itself a new headquarters on the church’s doorstep at the start of the sixteenth century and summoned Carpaccio to brighten up the first-storey hall.

Painted from 1502 to 1508, after the Accademia’s St Ursula cycle, Carpaccio’s pictures were moved downstairs when the building was rearranged in 1551, and the interior has scarcely changed since.

#3 Stroll through the lively Rialto market

It was through the markets of the Rialto that Venice earned its reputation as the bazaar of Europe. Virtually anything could be bought or sold here: fabrics, precious stones, silver plate and gold jewellery, spices and dyes from the Orient. Trading had been going on here for over four hundred years when, in the winter of 1514, a fire destroyed everything in the area except the church.

The possibility of relocating the business centre was discussed but found little favour, so reconstruction began almost straight away: the Fabbriche Vecchie was finished eight years after the fire, and Sansovino’s Fabbriche Nuove followed about thirty years later.

Today’s Rialto market is much more modest than that of Venice at its peak, but it’s still one of the liveliest spots in the city and one of the few places where it’s possible to stand in a crowd and hear nothing but Italian-spoken.

#4 Take a tour of San Giorgio Maggiore

Palladio’s church of San Giorgio Maggiore, facing the Palazzo Ducale across the Bacino di San Marco is one of the most prominent and familiar of all Venetian landmarks. It is a startling building, with an impact that’s enhanced by its isolation on an island of its own.

Ruskin didn’t much care for it: “It is impossible to conceive a design grosser, more barbarous, more childish in conception, more servile in plagiarism, more insipid in result, more contemptible under every point of rational regard.”

Goethe, on the other hand, was sick of the Gothic art that was to Ruskin the touchstone of spiritual health and gave thanks to Palladio for purging his mind of medieval clutter.

#5 Enjoy the spectacle of the Regata Storica

Held on the first Sunday in September, the Regata Storica is the annual trial of strength and skill for the city’s gondoliers and other expert rowers. It starts with a procession of historic craft along the Canal Grande course, their crews all decked out in a period dress, followed by a series of races right up the canal.

Re-enacting the return of Caterina Cornaro to her native city in 1489, the opening parade is a spectacular affair and is followed by a race for young rowers in two-oared pupparini. The women come next (in boats called mascarete), followed by a race for canoe-like caorline; and then it’s the men’s race, in specialized two-man racing gondolas called gondolini.

Gondolas in Venice © Shutterstock

#6 Go on a day trip to Torcello

“Mother and daughter, you behold them both in their widowhood – Torcello and Venice.” So wrote John Ruskin, and it’s almost impossible to visit Torcello without similarly sensing an atmosphere of bereavement. This outlying island has now come almost full circle.

Settled by the very first refugees from the mainland in the fifth century, it became the seat of the bishop of Altinum in 638 and in the following year its cathedral – the oldest building in the lagoon – was founded.

By the fourteenth century, its population had peaked at around twenty thousand, but Torcello’s canals were now silting up and malaria was rife. By the end of the fifteenth century, Torcello was largely deserted – even the bishop lived in Murano – and today fewer than a dozen people remain in residence.

Read more about the best day trips from Venice .

#7 Explore Burano and Murano islands

Take a fascinating day trip to the Venetian islands of Burano and Murano, each with a special charm that complements the glamour of Venice.

A short vaporetto ride from the main island takes you to the vibrant realm of Burano, known for its rainbow-coloured houses and intricate lacework. Wander through narrow streets decorated with colourful linens and observe the artistry of local lacemakers, whose tradition dates back several centuries. The island's serene canals and warm, welcoming atmosphere make it the perfect place for a leisurely lunch by the water's edge.

Then head to the island of Murano, considered the birthplace of Venetian glassmaking. Explore its rich history and modern innovations by visiting the glass factories, where master craftsmen skilfully mould molten glass into intricate shapes. Discover a fascinating variety of glassware, from exquisite jewellery to ornate chandeliers. See ancient techniques passed down through generations and learn about this age-old craft.

Venice landmark, Burano island, Italy © StevanZZ/Shutterstock

#8 Attend Venice Biennale

If you have a keen interest in contemporary art and international culture, timing your visit to coincide with the Venice Biennale can be a fantastic idea. The Venice Biennale, Europe’s most glamorous international forum for contemporary art, was first held in 1895 as the city’s contribution to the celebrations for the silver wedding anniversary of King Umberto I and Margherita of Savoy.

The main site is by the Giardini Pubblici, with permanent pavilions for about forty countries plus space for a thematic international exhibition. This core part of the Biennale is supplemented by exhibitions in parts of the Arsenale that are otherwise closed to the public, such as the colossal Corderie or Tana and the Artiglierie.

In addition, various palaces and other sites throughout the city are used as national pavilions and as venues for fringe exhibitions, installations and performances.

Biennale, Venice © avphotosales/Shutterstock

#9 Make a pilgrimage to Santa Maria della Salute

In 1630–31 Venice was devastated by a plague that exterminated nearly 95,000 of the lagoon’s population – one person in three. In October 1630 the Senate decreed that a new church would be dedicated to the Virgin Mary if the city were saved. The result was the Salute – salute meaning “health” and “salvation” – or Santa Maria della Salute, to use its full title.

Resting on a platform of more than 100,000 wooden piles, the Salute took half a century to build; its architect, Baldassare Longhena, was only 26 years old when his proposal was accepted. He lived just long enough to see it finished – he died in 1682, one year after completion.

Each year on November 21 (the feast of the Presentation of the Virgin) the Signoria is processed from San Marco to the Salute for a service of thanksgiving. The Festa della Madonna della Salute is still a major event in the Venetian calendar, with thousands of people making their way here to pray for or give thanks for good health.

#10 Discover the hidden gem of Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo

Located in a charming labyrinth of Venetian alleyways, Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo is an amazing hidden gem waiting to be discovered. This architectural gem, often unnoticed by the crowd, charms those who dare to discover it. The main feature of the palace is the "Scala Contarini del Bovolo", a spiral staircase that rises gracefully upwards and is decorated with elegant arches that create a complex play of light and shadow.

As you ascend this spiral staircase, you are transported to another era where the artistic vision of the Contarini family is brought to life with breathtaking detail. As you climb up, the panorama of red-tiled roofs and Venetian vistas opens up, giving you a glimpse of a timeless city.

There’s more than an element of truth to Venice’s reputation as a place where mass tourism has produced monotonous menus, cynical service and slapdash standards in the kitchen. Venice has fewer good, moderately priced restaurants than any other major Italian city, it has more really bad restaurants than any other, and in some of the expensive establishments you’re paying not for a fine culinary creation but for the experience of dining in an expensive Venetian restaurant. 

However, things have been getting better in recent years, and in the less overrun parts of Venice there are now several good places where you can get a decent two-course meal, plus house wine, for €35–40 per person – which, in this city, is reasonable.

Eating out in San Marco

• Ai Mercanti : Revamped in 2013, Ai Mercanti in San Marco offers imaginative dishes like pumpkin and coffee bean risotto, starting at €13. Its dark wood and golden décor create a unique atmosphere. Open Mon 7–10:30pm, Tues–Sat 12:30–3pm & 7–10:30pm.
• Al Bacareto : A local favorite for over forty years, Al Bacareto offers genuine Venetian cuisine with main courses ranging from €15–20. Opt for cicheti at the bar for a taste of Venice on a budget.

Eating out in San Polo and Santa Croce

• Al Nono Risorto : Nestled off Campo San Cassiano, Al Nono Risorto attracts a young crowd with its pizzeria-restaurant vibe, live jazz and blues, and a charming small garden. Note: No credit cards accepted. Open Mon & Tues–Sun noon–2:30pm & 7–11pm.
• Alla Madonna : For over sixty years, Alla Madonna has served seafood in a lively, old-style setting, now managed by the founder's son. The ambiance is bustling, and the service quick. Despite recent price hikes, it offers relatively good value at about €45/person. Open Mon, Tues & Thurs–Sun noon–3pm & 7–10pm.

Venice ©Shutterstock

Insatiable demand makes Venice’s hotels the most expensive in Western Europe. What’s more, the high season here is longer than anywhere else in the country, but many places don’t recognize the existence of a low season any more.

There are, though, a few good-value hotels to be found in the city, and an ever-increasing number of bed and breakfast places, as well as a plethora of apartments for rent.

If you want to spend time surrounded by luxury, San Marco is the most suitable neighbourhood to do so. San Marco is the heart of Venice, home to the famous St Mark's Square, the magnificent St Mark's Basilica and the majestic Doge's Palace.

This neighbourhood offers exclusive shopping opportunities, high-end restaurants and breathtaking views of the canals. Treat yourself to luxurious accommodation options , including five-star hotels that offer stunning views of the city's landmarks. However, be prepared for higher prices as San Marco is a premium neighbourhood.

Dorsoduro is a neighbourhood worth staying in Venice for its artistic heritage and lively cultural life. Home to the prestigious Accademia Gallery and the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, this neighbourhood attracts art lovers from all over the world.

Dorsoduro is also home to the University of Ca' Foscari, giving the neighbourhood a lively and youthful energy.

San Polo and Santa Croce

If you are looking for a place to stay in Venice to experience local Venetian life, the ideal neighbourhoods are San Polo and Santa Croce. These neighbourhoods exude genuine charm with their narrow streets, small squares and bustling markets.

Also, a must-see in these neighbourhoods are the Rialto Bridge, the lively Rialto Market and the historic church of San Giacomo di Rialto. Accommodation options , from cosy guesthouses to charming boutique hotels, provide an authentic Venetian experience.

The Cannaregio neighbourhood may not have any major attractions, but it is a place to stay to experience the atmosphere of Venice. Cannaregio is a less crowded residential neighbourhood that offers a more local and authentic experience. It is known for its picturesque canals, historic synagogues and lively Jewish ghetto.

Central Castello

Castello, located east of San Marco, is Venice's largest and most traditional neighbourhood. With winding streets, small squares and local shops, this neighbourhood has a more relaxed atmosphere.

Castello is home to the impressive Arsenale and the Biennale Gardens, where the prestigious Venice Biennale art exhibition takes place. Castello offers a wide range of accommodation options , from budget guesthouses to elegant boutique hotels.

Browse the best hotels in Venice.

The Canals of Venice, in Italy © Shutterstock

Choosing the right time to visit Venice can greatly influence the experience one gains from this enchanting city. Spring ( April , May and June ) and early autumn ( September to October ) are often considered the best seasons to explore Venice.

During these periods, the weather is pleasantly mild, and the city is less crowded than in the peak summer months ( July and August ). Strolling through the labyrinthine streets, gliding along the serene canals, and marvelling at the architecture under the warm sunlight becomes an immersive experience.

The winter months ( November and January ) can be cold. Venice's renowned events like the Carnival in February and the Venice Biennale in odd-numbered years draw a diverse array of international visitors, adding a unique cultural dimension to the visit. December is usually busy with locals but a fun time to visit.

Find out more about the best time to visit Italy.

The topography of Venice is uniquely complicated, and at first glance its public transport looks as convoluted as a wiring diagram. But the situation isn’t as daunting as it first appears: there are clear main routes through the warren of Venice’s alleyways, and you’ll need to get to grips with only a few of the water-bus routes.

Venice Water-Bus fares and tickets explained

Single journey & special ticket:

• Standard Ticket: €7, valid for 60 minutes with unlimited changes, not usable for return trips.
• One-Stop Ticket: €4, ideal for short crossings like San Zaccaria to San Giorgio Maggiore.
• Luggage Fee: €7 for each piece of large luggage beyond the first.
• Concessions: Children under 4 travel free. Wheelchair users pay €1.30; their companion travels free.

Save with Travel Cards

To avoid high single-ticket costs, consider ACTV Tourist Travel Cards

• 24 hours: €20
• 48 hours: €30
• 72 hours: €40
• 7 days: €60
• Rolling Venice Cardholders: Special 72-hour card for €20
• Airport Bus Supplement: €4 per journey with any ACTV pass.

Where to buy

• Tickets: Landing stages, shops with the ACTV sign, tourist offices.
• ravel Cards: Tourist offices, Piazzale Roma, train station, airport, and selected vaporetto stops like Ca’ d’Oro and San Marco Vallaresso.

Gondola rides in Venice

Gondola Navigation

Thanks to their design, gondolas can navigate Venice's narrow and shallow canals effortlessly, a testament to the gondoliers' skill. Previously a hereditary job, now anyone can become a gondolier after completing 400 hours of rigorous training, which covers manual skills, canal navigation, and the history of the profession. In 2010, Venice celebrated its first female gondolier, Giorgia Boscolo.

Costs & Hours

• Standard Fare: €80 for a 40-minute ride for up to six passengers. After 7pm until 8am, the rate increases to €100.
• Extended rides:Additional 20 minutes cost €40, or €50 after 7pm.
• Extras: Expect surcharges for an accordionist or tenor. Note that there's a debate on banning "O Sole Mio" to avoid stereotypical Italian experiences.

Avoiding overcharges 

Although fares are regulated, some gondoliers might charge more. Always confirm the price before departure. For a reliable service, use official gondola stands located at key points throughout the city, including Calle Vallaresso, Campo San Moisè, Campo Santa Maria del Giglio, Bacino Orseolo, in front of the Palazzo Ducale, Riva degli Schiavoni near the Danieli hotel, the train station, Piazzale Roma, Campo Santa Sofia near Ca’ d’Oro, San Tomà, and Rialto Bridge on Riva Carbon.

Venice Water Taxis

Venice's water taxis are stylish, fast, and can navigate most canals, accommodating up to 10 passengers. However, they're known for being one of the priciest taxi services in Western Europe.

• Base Rate: Starts at €15, with €2 added every minute.
• Surcharges: €10 per extra passenger beyond five. €5 for each luggage piece over five. €10 for rides between 10pm and 7am.

Booking tips

• Direct booking from stands or catching an available taxi can save surcharges.
• Phone bookings and concierge-arranged rides include additional fees.

Epiphany Regatta in Venice © Shutterstock

The ideal number of days to spend in Venice depends on your interests, the pace of your trip and what you want to see. Here are general guidelines to help you plan your visit:

If your schedule is tight, you can manage to experience the main attractions of Venice in one or two days. Focus on the main sights such as St Mark's Square, St Mark's Basilica, Doge's Palace, take a gondola ride and perhaps stroll the streets. However, this will not allow you to explore more than the iconic sites.

3-4 days will give you a better chance of experiencing the essence of Venice. You'll be able to see the main sights, take a day trip to nearby islands such as Burano and Murano, and in your free time wander off the beaten track, discover local restaurants and soak up the unique atmosphere.

If you have more time, you can truly immerse yourself in the culture and lifestyle of Venice. In addition to the above, you can visit less crowded areas, art galleries and museums, attend cultural events or festivals, and take day trips to neighbouring cities such as Padua or Verona.

Venice, Canal, Italy @ Shutterstock

Before you can lose yourself in its winding waterways and historic charm, you'll need to figure out the best way to get there. Whether you're flying in from across the globe or making your way from a nearby European city, various options are available to suit every budget and travel style.

• Flights from the UK and Ireland : Direct flights take around two hours from London . EasyJet flies between two and four times daily, while its chief rival, Ryanair, has one or two flights each day from London and less frequent services to Treviso from Bristol, East Midlands, Manchester and Edinburgh. Aer Lingus (Dublin) flies to Marco Polo up to five times per week, while Ryanair flies three or four times a week to Treviso in high season.
• Flights from the US and Canada: The only direct service to Venice from the US is with Delta, who fly from New York to Marco Polo up to six times a week in summer. Air Canada has direct flights from Montréal to Venice, and various indirect flights from Toronto and Montréal, usually via Frankfurt or New York.

The choice of rail routes and fares is hugely complex, but the cheapest route is to take the Eurostar from London to Paris, then change to the high-speed TGV from Paris to Milan, and change there for the “Frecciarossa” to Florence. The total journey time is 14–18 hours, and with some online research, you can put together a one-way ticket for a little over the cost of a return flight, though peak prices are considerably higher.

If you take a couchette, using the “Thello” sleeper for the stage from Paris to Milan doesn’t add much to the cost. Booking for these continental routes usually opens three months before the day of travel. Discounts for under-26s are sometimes available and advance booking is essential. If you’re planning to include Italy as part of a longer European trip you could choose to invest in an InterRail pass.

Find out the best ways to get to Italy .

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updated 11.04.2024

Ties is a true world explorer - whether it be for work or leisure! As Content Manager at RoughGuides, and the owner of Dutch travel platform Reis-Expert.nl , Ties is constantly on the move, always looking for new destinations to discover.

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Review: The St Regis Venice Hotel (Italy)

Wednesday  newsletters  always feature a  hotel  or  flight  review.

Early October, I was supposed to travel to Namibia but that did not happen because of the ongoing pandemic (and government advice against travel outside the EU, where I am based). Instead, I planned a last-minute holiday to some of Italy’s most beautiful areas. You can read my trip reports here:

• Review:  Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo, Sicily
• Review:  Belmond Villa Sant’Andrea, Sicily
• Review: Verdura Resort, a Rocco Forte Hotel, Sicily
• Review:  Lefay Resort & Spa, Lake Garda 
• Review: Forestis, Dolomites
• Review: The St Regis Venice Hotel (today)

Today (December 9, 2020): Review of The St Regis Venice Hotel (Italy)

• Location:  Google maps
• Hotel website: The St Regis Venice
• Tip: get complimentary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso

Avant-garde in outlook and design, The St. Regis Venice merges striking, modern interiors with its historic provenance as one of the best addresses in the city. Flanked by the Grand Canal with views across iconic landmarks, the hotel has stood in this privileged position for over a century and a half. Stylish design, intelligent technology and St. Regis Butlers cultivate an environment of impeccable comfort in 130 guestrooms and 39 suites, a selection of which graced with private terrace. The preserve for relaxation and socializing, the hotel’s Italianate garden presents access to a range of dining and beverage options, while the Spa Suites and an exercise room provide avenues for unwinding.

The St Regis Venice features in my top 10 list of the best luxury hotels in Venice .

Have you ever stayed at The St Regis Venice? If so, what was your experience? Leave a  comment .

In this review (more info and photos below my Youtube clip & slideshow):

• Pros & things I like
• Cons & things to know
• Tips for future guests &  save money
• Best time to visit
• How to get there

REVIEW OF THE ST REGIS VENICE – PROS & THINGS I LIKE

• The St Regis Venice enjoys one of the best locations in Venice , sitting right on the mouth of the Grand Canal. Occupying five baroque palaces and formerly known as the Westin Europa & Regina, the hotel boasts the largest water-frontage in the city, offering unparalleled vistas of some of Venice’s most celebrated landmarks, including the Santa Maria della Salute Basilica and the Punta della Dogana Museum across the water. Behind the property lies Calle XXII Marzo, a street which is home to elite boutiques and contemporary art galleries, and which leads to Piazza San Marcon a five minute walk from the hotel. The St Regis Venice also features a private jetty on the Grand Canal, which means guests can arrive in style by boat.
• The St Regis Venice opened in October 2019, following a two-year, full-scale renovation. The hotel is made up of five interconnected ‘palazzi’ , with Badoer Tiepolo being the oldest palazzo (dating back to the 17th century). By the 19th century, palazzi Tiepolo, Barozzi and Regina were converted into the Grand Hotel Britannia, which opened in 1895 – the same year as the inaugural Venice Biennale. The Grand Hotel Britannia was the first in Venice to have electricity in every room. In 1938, the hotel was sold to the Compagnia Italiana Grandi Alberghi (Ciga). In the late 1990s, Starwood rebranded the hotel as the Westin Europa & Regina after it purchased a 70% stake in Ciga. After Marriott acquired Starwood, it was decided to convert the hotel into a St Regis.
• Throughout its storied history, the palazzi which now house The St. Regis Venice, have played host to a roster of illustrious guests , global influencers and tastemakers. During its time as the Grand Hotel Britannia, the property attracted notable intellectuals and socialites as well as renowned painters J.M.W. Turner, John Singer Sargent and Claude Monet, who in the autumn of 1908 was inspired by the hotel’s spectacular views during his stay as a guest and worked to capture the passage of light in his artwork. It is recorded in the book “Monet in Venice” by Philippe Piguet  that Claude Monet’s wife, Alice, remarked in her daily letters to her daughter during their stay, “the views from our hotel room are the most magnificent of all Venice, and it’s all for Monet!”  
• Inspired by the Venetian masterpieces of former guest and Impressionist painter Claude Monet, the contemporary design of the ground floor’s public spaces exudes restrained opulence and is at it’s most beautiful in the gorgeous, high-ceilinged Grand Salon (next to the lobby). Led by London-based interior design studio Sagrada, Venetian styling and a soothing color palette was incorporated throughout the hotel in tailored fabrics and handcrafted furnishings, inspired by the gentle curves of gondolas, the patterns of the Doge’s Palace, the pavements of St. George’s churchyard, and the water flow of the canal. In the hotel’s Arts Bar, Carlo Scarpa – one of Venice’s greatest artists and architects – is honored through thoughtful decor.
• The St Regis Venice offers 129 guestrooms and 40 suites , many of which boast private terraces or Juliet balconies for sweeping views of Venice’s iconic landmarks. All accommodations are fitted in a modern design, which is welcome respite from the city’s mostly classically styled hotels. During my two-night visit, I was upgraded to a top-floor ‘Venice View Guest Room’, which overlooked the city’s characteristic terracotta rooftops. Dressed in soothing dawn color palettes, the room featured a large bedroom with kingsize bed, a tiny table with two chairs near the windows, and a plush velvet chaise sofa. The ensuite marble bathroom featured one sink and a gorgeous rain head shower; Laboratoire Remède toiletries were provided and daily replenished.
• The hotel’s secluded, Grand Canal-side garden , with curated landscaping, sets the St Regis Venice apart from its many 5-star competitors in the city. A lifestyle destination designed to provide a refined space for local tastemakers and guests to mingle, the small   garden reflects a modern interpretation of classic Venice, featuring geometric patterning, curlicue topiary, flowering plants and fluid pathways. With extraordinary views across the Grand Canal, the social heart of the hotel is one of Venice’s loveliest spots to enjoy an evening aperitif. I highly recommend the famous Spritz from the roaming, custom-made Spritz Trolley, or the Santa Maria – the hotel’s unique twist on the brand’s signature cocktail, the Bloody Mary.
• Anchored by the Grand Canal and the hotel’s private garden is Gio, the hotel’s signature restaurant whose name is a reference to the beautiful Palladian church of San Giorgio across the water. With immediate access to the inviting garden, the mood of the restaurant transitions seamlessly from a smart-casual setting during the day, to a more refined scene in the evening, as the nightly St. Regis champagne-sabering ritual begins. At the helm of Gio’s culinary experience – which celebrates authentic, modern Italian cuisine – is Sicilian born Executive Chef Nadia Frisina. Breakfast is also served at Gio, with the regular breakfast buffet currently being replaced by à la carte dishes due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
• Paying homage to the hotel’s tradition of welcoming famed artists, The St. Regis Venice hosts artists from around the world to take residence and create an eclectic collection of artwork and sculptures inspired by the hotel and its beloved locale. The hotel’s first resident artist, Parisian Olivier Masmonteil, has been commissioned to create original artworks for the Grand Salon and some of the suites. The Venetian tradition of glassmaking also lives on, celebrated through a partnership with Glasstress. This unique partnership marries contemporary art and historical glass blowing techniques, inviting world class artists of various disciplines to collaborate with Murano Maestros (masters) to create one-of-a-kind glass works of art.
• Advocating total relaxation, The St. Regis Venice feature a couple of Spa Suites on its first floor,   in partnership with Carita Paris. Treatments Treatments incorporate local ingredients prized for their healing benefits and may be cultivated around time – permitting short but effective beauty lifts, or longer, more in-depth therapies and programs. For those keen to uphold their fitness regimes, there’s also a gym on the first floor: state-of-the-art Technogym equipment features personal television screens and iPod docking stations, providing an ultra-modern environment for targeted workouts.
• Combining classic sophistication with a modern sensibility, St. Regis Hotels & Resorts is one of my favorite luxury hotel brands in the world . Part of the Marriott International Hotel Group, the St Regis brand is committed to delivering exceptional experiences at over 40 luxury hotels and resorts in the best addresses around the world. Since the opening of the first St. Regis hotel in New York City over a century ago by John Jacob Astor IV, the brand has remained committed to an uncompromising level of bespoke and anticipatory service for all of its guests, delivered flawlessly by signature St. Regis Butler Service. The St. Regis Venice marks the brand’s third location in Italy, joining The St. Regis Florence and The St. Regis Rome .

REVIEW OF THE ST REGIS VENICE – CONS & THINGS TO KNOW

• The St Regis Venice doesn’t have a swimming pool , although that’s not different from most other luxury hotels in Venice’s historic city center. While this won’t be a problem for most guests (Venice is all about sightseeing, not about relaxing near a pool), I couldn’t help but wonder why the architects did not add a small pool to the canal-side garden courtyard during the recent renovation. If a pool is a must for you during your Venice getaway, you’ll need to stay at either the Belmond Cipriani , San Clemente Palace Kempinski , or the JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa .
• The St Regis Venice is a very expensive property, which should not come as a surprise since it’s one of the most exclusively located hotels in Venice, a city where travel budgets come to die. Room rates are well above $850 USD per night in high season, although you can score a free night here by making a booking with Marriott points (cf tips below).
• The hotel is a great option for couples, but friends traveling together might be disappointed that St Regis Venice hardly offers rooms with twin bed configuration . If you want a room with separate beds, you’ll need to book one of the very expensive suites. Also keep in mind that most of the lower-end category rooms are small and don’t offer any view to speak of.
• The hotel features fabulous interiors. The only problem is that the modern design will not please all tastes, as I suspect some travelers would prefer a hotel with more Venetian or Italian flavor and authenticity (which is lacking here, especially when compared to other luxury hotels in the city).
• The hotel’s restaurant Gio has an expansive outdoor terrace along the Grand Canal in addition to a small indoor dining room . When the terrace cannot be used because of unfavorable weather conditions, the indoor place is too small to accommodate all guests and will feel very crowded. For example, it rained during my stay, and guests had to queue for more than 20 minutes to be seated for breakfast.

REVIEW OF THE ST REGIS VENICE – MY VERDICT

• Location: 10/10
• Design: 9/10
• Pool: not available
• Rooms: 8/10
• Breakfast: 8/10
• Service: 8/10
• Value for money: 8/10
• Overall experience: very good 8,2/10

REVIEW OF THE ST REGIS VENICE – TIPS FOR FUTURE GUESTS & SAVE MONEY

• Save money : get complimentary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, and $100 USD food & beverage credit). Booking via Virtuoso will also earn you Marriott Bonvoy points (cf below).
• Save money :  Marriott Bonvoy elite members are well treated here, with – among other benefits – free WiFi, a room upgrade (when available), early check-in or late check-out (when available), and complementary breakfast (for top tier members). Read  here  my review of Marriott Bonvoy.
• Save money : book your room with an additional 25% off making use of a  Best Rate Guarantee .
• Save money : read  here my tips for getting the best deal at a luxury hotel like The St Regis Venice (and/or receive many free perks).
• Room tip :  For the full Venice experience, book a room with balcony directly overlooking the Grand Canal or a top-floor room with private roof terrace.
• Read my  tips  for preparing your trip in time.

REVIEW OF THE ST REGIS VENICE – BEST TIME TO VISIT

Late spring and early summer are the best times to visit Venice as far as weather is concerned. But the city during these beautiful warm days is packed with tourists, meaning that there can be long waits to enter museums and sights. Also during this peak time, finding accommodations – budget or otherwise – can be a challenge. In summer, the city can be oppressively hot, the canals ripe with odor, and the inevitable mosquitoes are bothersome. Venice’s location, in northern Italy on the Adriatic Sea, means that the city has colder, longer winters. While winter can be a great time of year to visit, especially in terms of getting a bargain and avoiding crowds, it can be harsh (the winds that whip off the Adriatic and down the alleyways are bone-chilling).

REVIEW OF THE ST REGIS VENICE – HOW TO GET THERE

Venice is served by 2 airports:

• Venice Marco Polo Airport is located 8 km north of the city and it served by most European full-service carriers (click  here  for a direct link to their websites) as well as by some non-European airlines. Check the  Wikipedia  page of Venice Marco Polo Airport for an updated list of airlines that offer direct flights to Venice.
• Treviso Airport is located 20 km from the Venice city center and is served by some European low-cost carriers (click  here  for a direct link to their websites). Check the  Wikipedia  page of Treviso Airport for an updated list of airlines that offer direct flights to Treviso.

REVIEW OF THE ST REGIS VENICE – PHOTOS

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….This has been the year of canceled trips and time that’s impossible to get back. ….Pandemic-weary people seek solace. *** The Venice is a Heart Balm ! ✓✓✓ It’s the best place in Venice for alluring relax I could wish for all ! I recommend dear Friends ! Don’t miss a crucial chance for your desired relax ! *** Dear The Great Expert ! My sincere thanks for this unique and helpful information and for Your particularly insightful attantion to the travelers and to Fans of Your famous Channel ! God bless You !

Nice place… Thanks for sharing. I found a lot of interesting information here. I really appreciate your article. Going to read more new posts.

Wowwww 👏🏻 hope you will like my London to Venice travel blog as well ☺️ 🥰 https://geotrend.travel.blog/

Just stayed at st Regis Venice. Was disappointed. Too many steps every where. Suite was terrible for $1500 a day. Too much artwork , wasted space. But terrible suites. Expensive as hell.

Will never stay there again

Great post. Hoping to go there next year. How much for the nightly Champaigne sabering ? was it an Elite benefit ( platinum / titanium) ?

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10 Best Essential Venice, Italy Travel Tips for a Dream Vacation

30 November 2023

Welcome to the 10 Best Essential Venice, Italy Travel Tips for a Dream Vacation. Start planning your trip today . Get ready to embark on a dream vacation in one of the most picturesque cities in the world. Venice is known for its enchanting canals, stunning architecture, and rich history. To help you make the most of your visit, I’ve compiled a list of 10 essential travel tips that will ensure a memorable and magical experience in Venice.

Key Takeaways:

• Stay in Venice for at least two nights to fully explore the city and experience its unique atmosphere.
• Choose accommodation wisely, from luxurious hotels to charming boutique establishments.
• Pack light and be prepared to navigate the city’s narrow streets and transportation options.
• Plan your visit during the shoulder seasons to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
• Explore authentic eateries away from tourist areas to savor the local cuisine.

Venice, Italy Travel Tips:The Importance of Staying at Least Two Nights in Venice

By staying for multiple nights, travelers can immerse themselves in the atmospheric beauty of Venice. The winding streets, picturesque canals, and stunning architecture are best experienced at a leisurely pace. Walking through the city without the pressure of time allows for serendipitous discoveries and the opportunity to venture off the beaten path.

Moreover, staying overnight provides the chance to witness the enchantment of Venice during the evening and early morning hours. The streets are less crowded, the canals are illuminated by soft lights, and the city takes on a magical ambiance that is truly unforgettable.

Reasons to Stay for Two Nights in Venice:

• Experience the city at a relaxed pace
• Explore hidden corners and off-the-beaten-path attractions
• Enjoy the enchanting ambiance during the evening and early morning
• Discover the city’s unique charm and character
• Immerse in the beauty of the picturesque canals and architecture

In conclusion, staying for at least two nights in Venice allows travelers to fully immerse themselves in the city’s charm, explore its hidden gems, and experience its enchanting ambiance. It is a chance to go beyond the tourist spots and truly get a taste of the authentic Venice. So, when planning your trip to Venice, be sure to allocate enough time to fully enjoy this captivating city.

Venice Italy Insider Tips: Finding the Perfect Accommodation

When planning a trip to Venice, finding the perfect accommodation is essential to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay. From luxurious hotels with breathtaking views to charming boutique establishments, Venice offers a range of options to suit different preferences and budgets. Here are some of the best luxury hotels in Venice that guarantee a memorable experience:

These hotels not only offer lavish accommodations but also provide a range of amenities to enhance your stay. From exquisite design and breathtaking views to outdoor areas where you can relax and soak in the beauty of Venice, these luxury hotels ensure a truly unforgettable experience.

When booking your accommodation in Venice, be sure to consider your preferences and budget. Whether you choose to stay in a grand palatial property or a charming boutique hotel, finding the perfect accommodation will enhance your overall experience in this enchanting city.

The Importance of Packing Light in Venice

When traveling to Venice, it’s crucial to pack light to avoid the inconvenience of carrying heavy luggage through the city’s narrow streets and onto boats. As a city accessible primarily by water, Venice’s transportation options make it essential to travel with smaller suitcases or backpacks. By packing light, you’ll have more flexibility to navigate the city and explore its charming alleys and hidden corners without the burden of heavy bags.

Additionally, packing light allows for easier navigation and flexibility when moving between different accommodations or modes of transportation. It also provides more freedom to make impromptu stops and discover off-the-beaten-path attractions. By prioritizing essential items and versatile clothing options, you can ensure a hassle-free and enjoyable travel experience in Venice.

Consider the weather and season when selecting your wardrobe for Venice. The city can experience varying temperatures throughout the year, so it’s important to pack layers that can be easily added or removed. This will allow you to adapt to changing weather conditions and fully enjoy your time in Venice.

Tips for Traveling to Venice Italy:

• Choose a smaller suitcase or backpack to travel light
• Pack versatile clothing options for changing weather
• Avoid overpacking and prioritize essential items
• Consider the unique transportation options in Venice when selecting your luggage
• Make use of packing cubes or organizers to maximize space
• Use travel-sized toiletries to save space and adhere to airline regulations
• Consider doing laundry or using hotel laundry services during longer stays
• Remember to leave some space in your luggage for souvenirs

“Packing light not only makes your travel experience in Venice more convenient, but it also allows for greater exploration and flexibility in navigating the city’s charming streets and waterways.” – Travel Expert

Venice Travel Tips and Advice

1. Best Time to Visit Venice

If you want to avoid large crowds and enjoy pleasant weather, consider visiting Venice during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) or fall (September to November). These months offer milder temperatures and fewer tourists compared to the peak summer season. However, do keep in mind that weather can be unpredictable, so pack accordingly with layers and be prepared for occasional rain showers.

2. Navigating the City

Venice is a labyrinth of narrow streets, winding canals, and charming bridges. Getting lost is part of the adventure, but it’s always a good idea to have a map or a navigation app handy. GPS signals can be weak in certain areas, so having a physical map will help you find your way around. Exploring Venice during the early morning or late evening hours can provide a more peaceful experience and allow you to appreciate the city’s beauty without the crowds.

3. Must-Try Experiences

Make sure to take a gondola ride along the canals, as it is a quintessential Venice experience. While it may seem touristy, it offers a unique perspective and a chance to see the city from a different angle. Additionally, don’t miss the opportunity to try the local cuisine. Venice is known for its seafood, cicchetti (small bites), and traditional Italian dishes. Venture away from the main tourist areas to discover authentic eateries loved by locals.

By following these travel tips and advice, you’ll be well-prepared to explore the enchanting city of Venice and create lasting memories.

Read More 10 Best Things to Do in Naples, FL for Couples – Romantic Getaways

Experiencing Authentic Cuisine in Venice

When visiting Venice, one of the highlights of the trip is undoubtedly the opportunity to savor the exquisite and authentic cuisine that the city has to offer. From traditional Venetian dishes to mouthwatering seafood delicacies, there is something to satisfy every palate. To truly indulge in the local flavors and culinary traditions, it is recommended to explore the lesser-known eateries that are frequented by locals.

One highly recommended restaurant is Bistrot de Venise , which offers a unique dining experience by recreating historical food from Renaissance cooks. Located near St. Mark’s Square, this establishment takes guests on a gastronomic journey through time. Another hidden gem is Trattoria Antiche Carampane , a charming eatery popular with locals. Here, visitors can enjoy traditional Venetian dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Seafood lovers should not miss the opportunity to dine at Osteria Alla Testiere , a Michelin-recommended seafood restaurant located in the neighborhood of Castello. With its intimate ambiance and exquisite seafood creations, it offers an unforgettable dining experience. For a more casual yet authentic meal, a visit to All’Arco is a must. This cozy wine bar is known for its vibrant atmosphere and delicious snacks, perfect for a quick bite or aperitivo.

Table: Recommended Restaurants in Venice

Venturing off the beaten path and exploring the narrow streets and alleyways of Venice can lead to hidden culinary treasures and a true taste of the local cuisine. So be sure to make time to explore these authentic eateries and embark on a culinary adventure during your visit to Venice.

Avoiding Overpriced Establishments in St. Mark’s Square

To make the most of your visit to St. Mark’s Square, I recommend focusing on exploring the historical sites and landmarks rather than spending money on overpriced food or drinks. Take the time to marvel at the stunning St. Mark’s Basilica, the impressive Doge’s Palace, and the picturesque campanile. These attractions offer a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Venice, creating unforgettable memories without breaking the bank.

If you’re looking for a more authentic culinary experience, venture beyond St. Mark’s Square and explore the narrow streets and alleyways of Venice. You’ll find hidden gems tucked away from the tourist crowds, where you can savor delicious local cuisine at more reasonable prices. From charming trattorias serving traditional dishes to authentic wine bars offering a lively atmosphere, Venice has a wealth of dining options that won’t leave your wallet empty.

Table: Must-Visit Attractions in Venice

By avoiding overpriced establishments in St. Mark’s Square and exploring the hidden treasures of Venice, you can enjoy the city’s must-visit attractions without breaking the bank. Take the time to savor the authentic flavors of Venetian cuisine and immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of this enchanting city.

Venice Travel Tips: Making the Most of Your Visit

Take a Gondola Ride in Venice

No trip to Venice is complete without a romantic gondola ride along the city’s canals. Glide through the picturesque waterways, passing under charming bridges and admiring the stunning architecture. It’s a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the city’s romantic atmosphere and create unforgettable memories.

Explore the Must-Visit Places in Venice

Venice is filled with must-visit attractions that showcase its unique beauty and history. Be sure to visit St. Mark’s Square and marvel at the grandeur of St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace. Take a stroll on the iconic Rialto Bridge and wander through the narrow streets of the charming neighborhoods.

For a truly immersive experience, consider joining a private walking tour that offers optional gondola rides. These guided tours provide fascinating insights into the city’s history, culture, and hidden gems, allowing you to discover Venice like a true local.

Indulge in the Culinary Delights of Venice

One of the highlights of visiting Venice is indulging in its delicious cuisine. From fresh seafood to authentic Italian pasta dishes, Venice offers a plethora of culinary delights. Take a food and wine tour in the Jewish Ghetto and Cannaregio district, where you can savor local delicacies and learn about the city’s gastronomic traditions.

Another option is to book a table at one of the city’s renowned restaurants, such as Bistrot de Venise or Osteria Alla Testiere , to indulge in a gourmet dining experience. Don’t miss the opportunity to try Venetian cicchetti, small bite-sized snacks, at traditional wine bars like All’Arco .

Experience Venice’s Nighttime Charm

Venice takes on a whole new ambiance after dark, with its narrow streets and canals bathed in soft light. To experience the city’s nighttime charm, consider joining a Highlights and Hidden Gems Night Walking Tour . This guided tour will take you through the less crowded areas of Venice, allowing you to discover its hidden beauty and unique atmosphere.

Remember to plan your visit in advance and make reservations for popular activities, such as gondola rides or concerts at the Vivaldi Church. By following these tips, you’ll be well-prepared to make the most of your time in Venice and create unforgettable memories in this mesmerizing city.

Venice is a truly unique and magical city , offering visitors a one-of-a-kind experience. From exploring its winding streets to cruising along its picturesque canals , Venice captures the imagination and leaves a lasting impression. By following these travel tips , visitors can make the most of their trip to Venice , ensuring a memorable and dream-like vacation.

One of the key recommendations is to stay in Venice for at least two nights. This allows travelers to fully immerse themselves in the city’s beauty, take leisurely walks, and discover hidden corners away from the tourist crowds. Exploring authentic eateries is also a must-do, as it provides a taste of the local cuisine and a chance to venture off the beaten path.

Guided walking tours and the option to purchase skip-the-line tickets for popular attractions are highly recommended. These experiences offer valuable insights, save time, and provide a deeper understanding of Venice’s history and culture. With its wealth of experiences, Venice has something to offer every traveler.

So start planning your dream vacation in Venice today and unlock the magic of this enchanting city. From breathtaking views to delicious food, Venice promises to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.

Q: How long should I stay in Venice?

A: It is highly recommended to stay in Venice for at least two nights to fully explore all that the city has to offer.

Q: What are some recommended hotels in Venice?

A: Some popular hotels in Venice include Hotel Metropole , Hotel Moresco , H10 Palazzo Canova , Hotel Galleria , and Hotel Cipriani .

Q: How should I pack for Venice?

A: It is advisable to travel light and be prepared to carry your luggage on and off boats and through the city’s winding streets.

Q: Can Venice get crowded?

A: Yes, Venice is a popular tourist destination and can get crowded, especially in popular areas like St. Mark’s Square.

Q: How can I navigate Venice?

A: It is recommended to rely on maps, get a little lost to discover hidden corners, and consider taking guided walking tours.

Q: Where can I find authentic cuisine in Venice?

A: To experience local cuisine, venture off the well-trodden tourist trails and visit authentic eateries frequented by locals.

Q: Should I dine in St. Mark’s Square?

A: It is advisable to avoid dining in St. Mark’s Square due to high prices and crowded tourist establishments.

Q: How can I make the most of my visit to Venice’s attractions?

A: Taking guided walking tours and purchasing Skip The Line tickets in advance can enhance the experience and save time.

Q: Are gondola rides a must in Venice?

A: Yes, a gondola ride is a quintessential experience in Venice that should not be missed.

Q: Are public toilets expensive in Venice?

A: Yes, public toilets in Venice can be expensive, so it is advisable to use the facilities in cafes and carry a refillable water bottle to save money and reduce plastic waste.

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A marble city built in a lagoon in northern Italy, with 100 islands reaching out into the Adriatic Sea – Venice has always been an original. A sense of wonderment befalls all who visit, enraptured by centuries of culture waiting to be discovered. But be certain to take your time: Venice is an institution of many layers, its artful life and unconventional creativity unfolding by the hour, as you wend through every storied canal.

Truly, Venice is a fairy tale come true, one that hinges on its historic S-shaped Grand Canal, home to 50 palazzi and six churches, from the Palazzo Ducale to Piazza San Marco. Private boat tours are life’s most exquisite – not to mention most romantic – endeavors, whether you’re cruising the 150 canals in a private water taxi or finding that special moment to go the traditional route via poling gondolier. The iconic Piazza San Marco

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Venice Travel Guide: A Guide to Venice, Italy

Welcome to our Venice travel guide! Venice, Italy is one of the most picturesque cities in the world. Known for its romantic gondola rides, beautiful architecture, and winding canals, it’s a city that many people dream about visiting. But what makes Venice such a charming and unique destination?

First and foremost, Venice is a city built on water. It’s made up of over 100 small islands connected by a network of canals and bridges. This means that there are no cars in Venice. Instead, locals and tourists alike navigate the city on foot or by boat. The lack of traffic and noise creates a tranquil atmosphere that encourages visitors to slow down and truly savour and appreciate the city’s magical beauty.

The city itself boasts a long and rich history and is jam packed full of culture. It was once a powerful city-state and was a centre of trade during the Middle Ages. Many of the city’s ornate buildings and landmarks date back several hundred years, including the famous Piazza San Marco , a large public square with an iconic basilica.

One of the most enjoyable experiences in Venice is undoubtedly taking a ride on a gondola. As you float through the canals, you’ll sail past stunning Gothic palaces, ornate bridges, and unique buildings that are only accessible by boat. Although gondola rides can be a bit pricey, they’re an essential Venetian experience that you won’t want to miss and certainly advice we woudn’t miss from our Venice travel guide.

For food lovers, Venice offers some of the most delicious cuisine in Italy. Fresh seafood is obviously the highlight, with dishes such as risotto al nero di seppia (squid ink risotto) or spaghetti alle vongole (clam spaghetti) being particularly popular. Of course, with Venetian cuisine, you can’t forget about the wines to accompany these dishes. Veneto, the region in which Venice is located, produces some of Italy’s best wine, including the crisp, refreshing Prosecco.

Venice is also famous for its many festivals, including the famous Carnival of Venice. During this time, the city comes alive with colorful costumes, masks, and festivities that attract visitors from all over the world. The Venice Biennale , one of the world’s largest and most prestigious contemporary art exhibitions, also takes place in the city every two years, showcasing some of the most innovative and exciting new works of art.

In summary, Venice is a beautiful and unique city with a rich history and culture. With its winding canals, beautiful architecture, and romantic gondola, there is so much to see and do in Venice.

In this Venice travel guide, Igor Scomparin, owner of  Tour Leader Venice , has kindly shared his knowledge of Venice with us. What he doesn’t know about Venice isn’t worth knowing!

What to see and do in Venice 

Visit St. Mark’s Square

The Piazza San Marco is the largest and most famous square in Venice, and is surrounded by stunning architecture including the Basilica di San Marco (St. Mark’s Basilica), the Palazzo Ducale (Doge’s Palace), the Campanile (bell tower) and the Procuratie Vecchie and Nuove , which house museums and exhibition spaces. It is also called the ‘ drawing room of Europe ‘, due to its rich historical and cultural significance.

St. Mark’s Square is a popular tourist attraction, known for its picturesque setting and lively atmosphere and unmissable addition to our Venice travel guide. It is also the venue for several annual events and celebrations, such as the Venice Carnival and the Feast of the Sensa. Visitors can enjoy coffee and pastries at the historic cafes or watch the pigeons flocking around St. Mark’s Column. The square is also the departure point for gondola rides and water taxis, providing access to other parts of Venice’s labyrinthine canals.

Book skip the line tickets to St Mark’s Basilica or enjoy a guided tour of St Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace (with terrace access) at Get Your Guide .

Take a gondola ride

The gondola is a traditional, flat-bottomed Venetian rowing boat. The origins of the gondola are somewhat unclear, but it is believed that they were first used in Venice in the 11th century.

Originally, gondolas were used for transportation purposes, as they were the primary means of getting around Venice’s intricate canal system. The boats were also used to transport goods such as building materials and food. In the 16th and 17th centuries, gondolas became more ornate and were decorated with elaborate carvings and decorations. The boats were also painted black, which has now become their signature colour.

Over time, the gondola evolved into a symbol of Venice and a popular tourist attraction. Gondoliers would dress in traditional costumes and sing songs as they rowed their passengers around the canals. Taking a scenic ride through the canals to experience the charm of Venice from the water has become a must on any visit to the city.

Today, there are around 400 gondolas in Venice, and they are primarily used for tourism purposes. The boats are still handcrafted using traditional techniques, and each gondola is unique. 

Book a private gondola ride and skip the lines on the day or opt for a cheaper shared gondola ride on Venice’s canals instead.

Visit the Rialto Bridge

The Rialto Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in Venice and offers beautiful views of the Grand Canal.

The story of the Rialto Bridge dates back to the 12th century. At that time, there were no bridges across the Grand Canal, and people had to use boats to cross the waterway. However, the growing merchant trade in Venice meant that there was a need for a solid bridge that could support the weight of goods and people.

In 1181, the first wooden bridge was built across the Grand Canal. It was a simple structure that allowed boats to pass under it. However, it was not very sturdy and had to be replaced several times over the centuries.

In the 16th century, the Venetian government decided to replace the wooden bridge with a more permanent structure. They commissioned the renowned architect Antonio da Ponte to design and build a stone bridge. It took da Ponte three years to build the Rialto Bridge, which was completed in 1591.

The Rialto Bridge is an architectural marvel with its graceful arches and elegant lines. It is made of Istrian stone, a type of limestone that has a warm, golden hue. The bridge is 75 feet wide and 90 feet long, and it stands on two rows of shops that sell everything from souvenirs to jewelry to fresh seafood.

Over the years, the Rialto Bridge has become an iconic symbol of Venice, attracting tourists from all over the world. It has also been the subject of many paintings, songs, and poems, reflecting Venice’s rich cultural heritage.

Today, the Rialto Bridge remains one of the most beautiful and beloved landmarks in Venice, a testament to the city’s enduring beauty and timeless charm.

See the Rialto Bridge on a private gondola ride .

Explore the art in the Accademia Gallery

This Venice art museum houses a vast collection of Venetian art, including works by Titian, Bellini, and Tintoretto.

The Accademia Museum of Venice is located in the Dorsoduro district of Venice, Italy. It is housed in the former Scuola della Carità, a 14th-century building that was converted into an art academy in 1750. The museum contains a large collection of Venetian art from the 14th to the 18th centuries, including works by famous artists such as Bellini, Titian, Tintoretto, and Veronese. Its collection includes paintings, sculptures, and other forms of visual art. It is considered one of the most important art museums in Italy and attracts thousands of visitors each year.

Visit the Peggy Guggenheim Collection

In contrast to the Accademia Museum , this is a modern art museum featuring works by some of the 20th century’s most influential artists, including Picasso, Dali, and Pollock.

The Guggenheim Museum in Venice is a contemporary art museum also located on the Grand Canal in the Dorsoduro sestiere of Venice, Italy. The museum is dedicated to the collection of modern and contemporary art belonging to the Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation. The museum opened in 1951 and contains works by artists such as Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalí, and Mark Rothko, among others. It is housed in the Palazzo Venier dei Leoni , an 18th-century palace that was the residence of Peggy Guggenheim, who donated her collection to the foundation.

Book Skip the Line tickets to the Peggy Guggenheim Collection .

Visit the Santa Maria della Salute Basilica

This beautiful domed church overlooks the Grand Canal and is an iconic symbol of Venice.

Santa Maria della Salute is a famous Roman Catholic basilica. The story of its construction dates back to 1630, when the city of Venice was hit by a devastating plague. The epidemic had spread rapidly throughout the city, claiming the lives of thousands of Venetians. In an effort to combat the disease, the Venetian government decided to build a new church dedicated to the Virgin Mary, under the name of ‘ Salute ‘, which means ‘ health ‘ in Italian.

The construction of the church was started almost immediately and quickly became a source of deep devotion for the people of Venice. The legendary architect, Baldassare Longhena , was hired to design the building. Santa Maria della Salute was constructed in the shape of an octagon with a large dome at the top, symbolising the eight-pointed star that is the emblem of the Virgin Mary.

The building was constructed on a spit of land which divided the Grand Canal and the canal of St. Mark’s, at the point where the two canals meet. The location was deliberately chosen to make the church visible from far and wide, and to show gratitude to the Virgin Mary for having saved Venice from the plague.

It took years to complete the church, and it was finally consecrated in 1681. Since then it has become a landmark of Venice and a testimony to the devotion of the Venetians towards the Virgin Mary. Every year on November 21st, the Feast of the Salute is celebrated with high mass and processions, in gratitude to the Virgin Mary for protecting the city of Venice from the plague.

Take a tour of the Doge’s Palace

This beautiful palace was once the centre of Venice’s political power, and now offers visitors a glimpse into the city’s rich history.

The Doge’s Palace, also known as the Palazzo Ducale , is a beautiful building situated in Venice, Italy. The construction of the palace began in the 9th century and was completed in the 14th century.

The Doge’s Palace was the residence of the Doge, who was the chief magistrate of Venice, and the headquarters of the Venetian government. It was also the home of the Great Council, which was the main decision-making body of Venice. 

The palace was designed by the architect Filippo Calendario and is a stunning example of Venetian Gothic architecture. The palace is made up of several buildings that are interconnected by corridors and courtyards, and it is built around a central courtyard known as the Courtyard of the Doge.

The Doge’s Palace has a rich history, and it has been witness to many important events in Venetian history. It has been the site of lavish parties, royal receptions, and important political meetings. It is also the place where prisoners were held and where many were sentenced to death. 

In addition to its historical and architectural significance, the Doge’s Palace is also home to an impressive collection of art. The palace houses numerous paintings, sculptures, and other works of art by some of the most renowned artists of the Renaissance, including Titian, Veronese, and Tintoretto.

Today, the Doge’s Palace is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Venice, attracting visitors from all over the world who come to marvel at its beauty and history. It is truly a magnificent example of the grandeur of Venetian art and architecture.

Book skip the line tickets to the Doge’s Palace .

Visit the Venetian Islands

Take a water taxi or vaporetto to the islands of Murano, Burano, or Torcello to explore the unique culture and history of these fascinating communities.

The Venetian Lagoon, located in northern Italy , is a large body of water that surrounds the city of Venice. It is divided into several smaller islands, including the islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello.

Murano is known for its skilled glassblowers who have been creating beautiful glasswork since the 13th century. Visitors can watch demonstrations of the glassblowing process and purchase unique handcrafted glass items.

Burano is known for its colorful houses and lace-making tradition. The lace-making technique has been passed down through generations and is still highly regarded today.

Torcello is the oldest island in the Venetian Lagoon and has a rich history dating back to the Roman Empire. It is home to the 7th-century Church of Santa Maria Assunta, which features Byzantine mosaics and is considered one of the most important sites in Venice.

Visitors can explore these islands by taking a boat tour or ferry ride from Venice. Each island offers a unique experience and a glimpse into the cultural heritage of the Venetian Lagoon.

Enjoy a customised private Venice lagoon tour with Tour Leader Venice .

Attend a performance at La Fenice Opera House

The Teatro La Fenice , or simply La Fenice , is one of the most famous and important opera houses in the world, known for its beautiful architecture and stunning performances.. Located in Venice, Italy, La Fenice has a rich history dating back to the early 19th century. 

The original theatre was built in 1792 but burned down in 1836 due to a fire caused by a faulty stove. The theatre was then rebuilt in 1837 and was named La Fenice, which means ‘ the Phoenix ‘ in Italian, because of its rebirth from the ashes. 

Throughout its history, La Fenice has hosted many important opera premieres and famous opera singers. The most notable operas that premiered at La Fenice include Tancredi by Gioachino Rossini (1813), Ernani by Giuseppe Verdi (1844), Rigoletto by Giuseppe Verdi (1851), La Traviata again by Giuseppe Verdi (1853), Failoni by Antonio Smareglia (1892), Rusalka by Antonín Dvořák (1901) and L’incoronazione di Poppea by Claudio Monteverdi in 1904.

La Fenice has also hosted performances by many other legendary opera singers, including Maria Callas, Luciano Pavarotti, Plácido Domingo, and José Carreras.

The opera house has gone through a number of renovations and restorations over the years, including after another devastating fire in 1996, but it remains one of the most beautiful and iconic venues for opera in the world.

Book your guided tour of La Fenice at Get Your Guide .

Must-do Tours and experiences in Venice

There are a wealth of Venice tours and experiences and we definitely suggest you opt to participate in at least one during your time in the city. For our Venice travel guidewe’ve chosen a few ideas to whet your appetite.

Walking tour of Venice

Whilst you may think that iconic Venice is perhaps a city that needs no introduction, we highly recommend visitors invest in the services of a personal tour guide to help you best explore the hidden side of the city. No one is better placed to do this than Igor Scomparin from Tour Leader Venice . Igor will show you a fascinating side of Venice away from the millions of tourists. He’ll introduce you to some of the city’s best bars and bakeries, reveal the city’s hidden corners as well as still ticking off Venice’s most famous and unique monuments. After a few hours in Igor’s company, you’ll be far better placed to navigate and enjoy Venice on your own.

Venetian Lagoon Islands Tour

When mainland Venice feels a little too crowded, it’s worth heading out on the water to explore the Venetian lagoon. Enjoy a customised private Venice lagoon tour with Tour Leader Venice . Discover Muranois on the island of Murano, the capital of glass blowing and visit a glass blowing factory. Or discover the unique vineyard on Mazzorbo which fights for survival against Venice’s tides for 2 months out of every year. Or instead explore the colourful houses of Burano or the quiet peacefulness of the island of Torcello, which was home for Ernest Hemingway for a while. You may even be lucky enough to spot a flamingo or two here!

Wine and Artisan Tour

This is a fascinating tour of Venice’s crafts and flavours. Enjoy the chance to visit some of Venice’s most unique mask-makers or discover its artisans skilled in making handmade Venetian marionettes. Or perhaps you’d prefer to sample some of Venice’s most famous tipples and cocktails? Whatever your preference, Tour Leader Venice will organise an itinerary bespoke for you.

Discover more Venice tours and experiences with our partner company, Get Your Guide .

Best restaurants in Venice

Perhaps the most impostant part fo any Italian travel guide and certainly our Venice travel guide – food! Venice is known worldwide as one of the most romantic and beautiful cities in the world, but it is also a true foodie’s paradise. Its unique location surrounded by water and strong cultural ties to mainland Italy and to the East make up a delicious culinary tradition full of contrasts, flavours, and dishes that are worth trying. Some of the most typical dishes of Venice include:

Sarde in saor: This is one of the most typical dishes in Venetian cuisine. It is a marinated sardine dish with flavours that might sound strange to foreigners – onions, vinegar, raisins, and pine nuts. Don’t be scared though! The combination is excellent and has been around for hundreds of years, dating back to a time when Venetians needed non-perishable food for long sea voyages.

Baccalà Mantecato : Another typical dish you should try when in Venice is Baccalà Mantecato, which is made with salt-cured cod. The cod is boiled, then whipped until it becomes a cream, and that’s why this dish’s name comes from mantecare , the Italian verb meaning to mix or whip. It is served as a spread, often with crostini or polenta.

Risi e Bisi : Risi e Bisi is a traditional Venetian primo piatto or first course. It is a risotto prepared with peas from the Venetian lagoon, pancetta, and parmesan cheese. This dish is prepared in the months of April and May when the pea harvest is at its best.

Fegato alla Veneziana : Fegato alla Veneziana is another iconic dish in Venetian cuisine. It is made with veal liver cut into thin slices and is cooked with onions and white wine. This dish might be polarising for some, but it is well worth trying, and it is one of the most popular Venetian dishes worldwide.

Bigoli in Salsa : Bigoli in Salsa is a Venetian pasta dish made with wholewheat spaghetti and onions (the ‘salsa’) cooked in anchovy sauce. It is a simple and hearty dish that Venetians have been eating for generations.

Tiramisu: Another famous dessert worldwide comes from the Venice area (to be precise the city of Treviso which is 30 min from Venice).

Some of our favourite restaurants in Venice include:

Ristorante al Covo : A family run, semi-formal restaurant with a strong emphasis on excellent quality local produce and flavours.

Oliva Nera : A small, rather romantic and charming family run restaurant situated near the Piazza San Marco. Great food and great service! Closed on Wednesdays.

Antica Trattoria Poste Vecie : A beautiful restaurant inside the Rialto Venice fish market. The story goes that it was a popular haunt of Casanova who met many of his favourite ladies here!

Osteria L’Orto dei Mori : Delicious cuisine served up by head chef Lorenzo Cipolla and his team who are inspired not just by the Venetian lagoon but also by Lorenzo’s homeland in the south of Italy.

Ristorante Local : A more recent restaurant, set up in 2015 by brother and sister duo Luca and Benedetta Fullin and with head chef Salvatore Sodano at the helm. It puts a modern twist on traditional Venetian dishes. The restaurant was awarded a Michelin star in 2022.

Alternatively, if you want to try creating some of these dishes for yourself, opt for a cooking experience in Venice with Tour Leader Venice .

Events in Venice  

Venice offers the opportunity for visitors to participate in a host of different events all year round. As part of this Venice travel guide, we’ve chosen some of the highlights throughout the year.

Venice Carnevale

Arguably the most famous of these is the Venice Carnival, one of the most famous and colourful carnivals in the world, held annually.

The Venice Carnival is an annual festival held in Venice, Italy. It officially starts two Saturdays before Ash Wednesday and ends on Shrove Tuesday, the day before Ash Wednesday. It is known for its elaborate costumes, masks, and other festivities.

The origins of the Venice Carnival date back to the thirteenth century when the Republic of Venice was a major trading power in Europe. The carnival was a period of indulgence before the start of the Lenten season, which was traditionally a time of fasting.

During the carnival, participants would wear masks and costumes, allowing them to escape their social status and indulge in anonymous behaviors. They would attend parties, dances, and other events held throughout the city.

The carnival was banned in 1797 when Venice was conquered by Napoleon but was later revived in the 1970s as a way to promote tourism in the city. Today, it is a major event that attracts visitors from all over the world.

The main attraction of the Venice Carnival is the elaborate costumes and masks worn by participants. These are often handmade and can be quite intricate and detailed. There are also a variety of events held throughout the carnival, including parades, masquerade balls, and concerts.

Overall, the Venice Carnival is a unique and exciting event that celebrates the history and traditions of Venice. It is a must-visit for anyone interested in Italian culture and history.

Biennale of Art and Architecture

The Venice Biennale of Art is one of the most important contemporary art exhibitions in the world. Held every two years in Venice, Italy, it showcases a wide variety of contemporary art and artists from around the globe. Established in 1895, the Biennale includes a range of exhibitions, events, and performances across various venues in the city.

The Biennale is organized around a central theme chosen by the curator of the event. Each exhibition focuses on a different aspect of contemporary art, such as painting, sculpture, installation, video, and performance. The event attracts artists, collectors, curators, critics, and enthusiasts from around the world.

The Biennale provides a platform for artists and curators to showcase their work and engage with the wider art community. It is an important event for discovering new talent, promoting international dialogue and cultural exchange, and identifying new trends and directions in contemporary art.

The Venice Biennale of Art has played a key role in the development of contemporary art and has helped to define the direction of art in the 20th and 21st centuries.

The Festa della Sensa

The Festa della Sensa , also known as the Marriage to the Sea , is a traditional celebration that takes place in Venice, Italy, on the Sunday following the Ascension Day. It commemorates two significant events in Venetian history – the victory over the Dalmatian pirates in the 9th century and the symbolic wedding of Venice to the Adriatic Sea. It is held annually in May.

The celebration commences with a religious ceremony at the Basilica of San Marco, where the Doge (the elected leader of Venice) throws a gold ring into the sea as a sign of the city’s commitment to the sea. Following the ceremony, a procession of boats and gondolas sail to the waters around the island of San Pietro di Castello, where a similar ceremony of throwing a ring into the sea takes place.

The festival is celebrated with various cultural and sporting events, including regattas, exhibitions and concerts. It is an important event for the Venetian people, and visitors can witness the traditional pageantry and experience the city’s history and culture.

The Festa della Sensa is not just a celebration but also a reminder of the bond between Venice and the sea, which has been vital to the city’s prosperity and survival throughout its history.

Historical Regatta

This is another of the festivals of Venice that takes place on the water. It is one of the most popular events in Venice, where gondoliers compete with boats decorated in 16th-century style. It takes place on the first Sunday of September and celebrates the historic role of the Venetian Republic’s maritime heritage. The regatta features a procession of historic boats and rowing races in different categories.

The event traces its origins back to the 13th century when the Venetian Republic held water festivals to celebrate naval victories. However, the modern Historical Regatta dates back to the 19th century when the city’s mayor decided to recreate the traditional race to promote tourism.

The regatta starts at the Piazza San Marco in front of the Doge’s Palace, with a colorful parade of boats floating past the grand canal. The procession includes a wide range of boats, from historical gondolas and Venetian rowing boats, which were used for fishing in the lagoon.

The rowing races are divided into various categories, including the four-oar caorline , two-oar pupparini boats, and the ceremonial parade.

The Historical Regatta is a major tourist attraction and a unique opportunity to witness Venetian maritime traditions. It is also an important cultural and historical event that celebrates the city’s rich history and longstanding maritime heritage.

Festival of the Redeemer

The Festa del Redentore (Feast of the Redeemer) is a traditional event that takes place in Venice, Italy, every year on the third Sunday of July. The festival has been celebrated in Venice since 1577 and is a religious feast dedicated to Jesus Christ as ‘Redeemer of mankind’ and was held to celebrate the end of the terrible plague that killed thousands of Venetians in the 16th century.

The centerpiece of the celebration is a temporary floating bridge that connects the Giudecca Island to the city center. The bridge, called ‘ Ponte del Redentore ‘, is constructed over the Giudecca Canal and is decorated with flowers and other colorful decorations.

On the evening of the third Saturday in July, Venetians light up thousands of candles all around the city, illuminating the buildings and canals with a magical light. This is called the Notte di Redentore (Night of the Redeemer) and it is one of the most evocative and romantic events in the Venetian calendar.

The celebrations culminate on Sunday with a solemn Mass held in the Church of the Redeemer, followed by a procession. The boats decorated with colourful balloons, streamers and lights are also a unique sight to see, as they make their way down the Grand Canal to the music of the traditional Le Serenate band.

The Festa del Redentore is a true Venetian celebration, and is filled with joy, colour, music, and food. It attracts visitors from all over the world and is a must-see for anyone visiting Venice in July.

Venice International Film Festival

The Venice Film Festival, also known as the Venice International Film Festival or Mostra Internazionale d’Arte Cinematografica di Venezia , is the oldest film festival in the world. It was founded in 1932 and takes place annually in late August or early September on the island of Lido in Venice, Italy. The festival showcases a range of international films in various categories, including feature films, documentaries, and short films. It also includes award ceremonies for the best films in each category, as well as special awards for individual achievements in the film industry. Over the years, the Venice Film Festival has become one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world, with many top filmmakers, actors, and industry professionals attending each year.

Feast of the Assumption

The Feast of the Assumption, also known as Ferragosto , is one of the most important religious holidays observed in Italy. It is celebrated every August 15th to commemorate the ascension of the Virgin Mary into heaven. In Venice, this day holds a special place in the hearts of the locals, and it is celebrated with great fervour.

The Vogalonga is a traditional event in Venice, Italy, which takes place every May or June, in which boats and rowers from all over the world participate in a non-competitive race through the canals of the city. The event usually takes place on the Sunday after Pentecost and has been a Venetian tradition since 1975. It was started as a way to protest against the growing use of motorized boats in the canals and to promote the use of traditional rowing boats. Participants start at St. Mark’s Square and row around the islands of the Venetian Lagoon before returning to the starting point. The event is open to all types of boats, including canoes, kayaks, and even stand-up paddleboards. The Vogalonga is not only a sporting event but also a cultural celebration of Venice’s maritime history and unique waterways.

Where to stay in Venice  

For those wishing to find a  hotel in Venice , we’d recommend opting to find a great value  Venice hotel  on  Skyscanner .

How to get to Venice 

By Car: Venice is located on the eastern coast of Italy, along the Adriatic Sea. If traveling by car, the easiest route is to take the A4 Autostrada, which connects Venice to cities such as Milan, Turin, and Brescia in the west, and to Trieste and further east to Slovenia and Croatia.

By Bus: There are several bus companies that offer transportation to Venice from various cities in Italy and Europe. Some of the most popular companies are Flixbus, Eurolines.

By Air: Venice has an international airport, Marco Polo Airport, which is located about 8 km from the city center. There are direct flights from major cities throughout Europe, Asia, and North America. Another option is Treviso Airport, which is about 35 km from Venice, and offers flights to and from major European cities.

By Train: Venice is well-connected by train to major cities throughout Italy and Europe. The main train station in Venice is Venezia Santa Lucia, which is located in the heart of the city. High-speed trains such as the Frecciarossa and Eurostar Italia serve Venice, making it easy to travel quickly and comfortably from major Italian cities like Rome and Milan.

By Boat: Venice is a unique city best known for its canals and waterways. Many people arrive in Venice by boat, and there are a variety of options for doing so. The most popular option is a vaporetto, which is a waterbus that operates throughout the city. Private water taxis are also available, as well as the ferries that connect the city to other destinations in the Venice Lagoon, such as Murano and Burano. 

Huge thanks to Venice expert, Igor Scomparin, owner of Tour Leader Venice , for sharing his knowledge of Venice with us to create this Venice travel guide. Igor grew up in the area between Venice and Treviso and is one of the city’s most experienced tour guides.

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Where to Stay in Venice first time: 9 Best areas & neighborhoods

Wondering where to stay in Venice for the first time ? In this post, I will help you to find the best areas to stay in Venice for first-time visitors and the best places to stay in each neighborhood.

Venice, the Floating City, is famous for its enchanting canals, gondolas, and picturesque bridges. It’s a place where you can wander through narrow, winding streets and discover stunning architecture, including the iconic St. Mark’s Basilica and the grand Doge’s Palace. 

The city’s vibrant carnival, with its elaborate masks and costumes, attracts visitors from around the world. And let’s not forget about the delectable Italian cuisine, where you can indulge in delicious pasta, pizza, and gelato while enjoying the charming Venetian atmosphere.

With 118 interconnected islands separated by canals and linked by over 400 bridges. The main transportation method in the City of Canals is by boat, with gondolas, water buses (vaporettos), and water taxis being the primary modes of getting around.

Venice offers a plethora of enchanting areas for first-time visitors. From the vibrant San Marco to the charming Dorsoduro, each district has its unique charm and attractions. Whether you seek romance, history, or a vibrant atmosphere, there is an area that suits your needs.

Table of Contents

Where to Stay in Venice first time?

Overview of the best neighborhoods to stay in venice for tourists.

• Santa Croce

The best areas to stay in Venice for the first time are San Marco, San Polo, Cannaregio, Dorsoduro, Santa Croce, and Castello. These are central districts on Venice, offering proximity to major attractions, convenient transportation links, and the vibrant atmosphere of Venice.

You can also consider staying in the island of Giudecca and Lido, as well as Mestre on the mainland. Each of these areas has its own advantages, so consider your preferences when choosing the best place to stay in Venice.

I recommend spending at least 2 to 3 days exploring the island, which is a good amount of time to visit iconic attractions such as  St. Mark’s Square, St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, the Rialto Bridge, as well as take a gondola ride through the canals and try local food.

San Marco is the best overall area for first-time visitors , and for those seeking 1 night, 2 nights stay in Venice due to its proximity to iconic attractions and easy access to public transportation. Staying here allows you to be located in the middle of the action!

Here is an overview of recommended areas:

9 Best areas to Stay in Venice for first-time visitors

1. san marco.

The San Marco district is one of the six sestieri (districts) of Venice. It is located in the historic center of the city and is considered the heart of Venice . San Marco is known for its iconic landmarks, stunning architecture, and lively atmosphere.

The district is named after the Piazza San Marco (St. Mark’s Square) , which is surrounded by magnificent buildings and attractions, including St. Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace, Museo Correr, and Procuratie Vecchie. 

St. Mark’s Basilica , a magnificent Byzantine-style church, is a major attraction in San Marco. Its elaborate design, intricate mosaics, and stunning interior make it a must-visit landmark. Next to the basilica is the towering Campanile di San Marco, offering panoramic views of the city.

The Doge’s Palace , located adjacent to St. Mark’s Basilica, was the residence of the Doge of Venice and the seat of Venetian government. Today, it is a museum that showcases the opulent interiors, grand halls, and famous artworks. You can also cross the iconic Bridge of Sighs , connecting the palace to the historic prison.

San Marco district is also renowned for its high-end shopping experience . The streets around Piazza San Marco are lined with luxurious boutiques, designer stores, and famous brands. It’s a popular destination for fashion enthusiasts and those looking for exclusive Venetian craftsmanship, such as Murano glass and Venetian masks.

The district offers a range of dining options, from traditional Venetian cuisine to international flavors. Restaurants and cafes with outdoor seating provide a perfect spot to enjoy the ambiance and watch the bustling activity in the square.

Visit Caffè Florian , one of the oldest coffee houses in the world, located in St. Mark’s Square. Savor a cup of coffee or indulge in a delicious pastry while enjoying the live music and the ambiance of this historic establishment.

Exploring the narrow streets and canals of San Marco is an adventure in itself. The district is interconnected by numerous bridges, allowing visitors to wander through the picturesque alleys, discover hidden gems, and soak in the enchanting beauty of Venice.

San Marco can be quite crowded , especially during the peak tourist season. The prices for accommodations in the area tend to be higher compared to other parts of Venice. 

Overall, San Marco is a great choice for first-time visitors to Venice, as it offers a central location and easy access to major attractions . But, if you prefer a quieter, more local experience, and more budget options, you may want to consider staying in Dorsoduro or Cannaregio.

Best places to stay in Venice in San Marco for first-timers:

• Luxury: Baglioni Hotel Luna , 5-star hotel, located in central Venice island, within easy walk from San Marco-Vallaresso Vaporetto water bus stop and Saint Mark’s Square. It has its own private dock for motorboats or gondola.  
• Mid-range: Hotel Casanova , 4-star hotel in an 18th-century building in center Venice island, offering easy walk from Piazza San Marco, Harry’s Bar, and Calle Frezzeria with many cafés, restaurants and pizzerias.
• Budget: Hotel Firenze , 3 star hotel, conveniently located right next to Saint Mark’s Square, easy reach from the S. Marco Vaporetto Water Bus Stop.

2. San Polo

San Polo is the smallest neighborhood of Venice , situated in the center of Venice, between the districts of San Marco, Santa Croce, Cannaregio, and Dorsoduro. It is known for its charming atmosphere and popular attractions, such as the Rialto Bridge and Rialto Market.

Staying in San Polo allows you to experience the authentic Venetian lifestyle as you wander through its narrow streets, cross its picturesque bridges, and discover hidden squares. 

The area is filled with lovely shops, restaurants, and cafes where you can savor delicious Italian cuisine and soak up the local ambiance.

The iconic Rialto Bridge is one of the most famous landmarks in San Polo. It spans the Grand Canal and connects the districts of San Polo and San Marco. It’s a popular spot for tourists to take photos and offers beautiful views of the canal.

Adjacent to the Rialto Bridge, you’ll find the bustling Rialto Market . This vibrant market is renowned for its fresh produce, seafood, and local specialties. It’s a great place to explore and experience the lively atmosphere of Venetian commerce.

The district’s namesake church, the Church of San Pol o, is a beautiful place of worship. It features an impressive facade and houses several notable artworks, including paintings by Tintoretto and Jacopo Palma il Giovane.

There is also Campo San Polo , the largest public square in Venice and serves as a gathering place for locals and visitors alike. It’s an excellent spot to relax, enjoy a gelato, or watch street performers.

San Polo is also well-connected to other parts of the city, making it convenient for exploring Venice’s famous landmarks. You can easily reach St. Mark’s Square, the Doge’s Palace, and other notable sites eithe r on foot or by using the vaporetto (water bus) services.

San Polo offers a more local and less touristy vibe compared to San Marco. You can experience the authentic Venetian lifestyle, with its charming canals, narrow streets, and traditional shops. While San Polo is less crowded, it can still get busy, especially during peak tourist seasons . 

Overall, choosing San Polo as your base in Venice offers a combination of convenience, authenticity, local atmosphere, and proximity to major attractions , making it an excellent choice for first-time visitors.

Best places to stay in Venice in San Polo for first-timers:

• Luxury: H10 Palazzo Canova , 4-star hotel, located close to Rialto Bridge, Ca’ d’Oro, and San Michele Cemetery. It has a terrace and 24-hour front desk. 
• Mid-range: Locanda Sant’Agostin , great guest house, located within walking distance from the Rialto Bridge, Santa Lucia Station and Piazzale Roma’s bus station.
• Budget: rialto1082 , excellent guest house, located within easy walk from Rialto Bridge and Frari Basilica.

3. Cannaregio

Cannaregio is the island’s largest sestier e in terms of land, located in the northern part of the city. It stretches from the train station, Santa Lucia, in the west to the lagoon in the east. It is bordered by the Grand Canal on the south, separating it from San Marco.

Cannaregio offers a more authentic and local experience compared to the heavily touristy areas near Piazza San Marco.  

Staying in Cannaregio allows you to be away from the busiest tourist areas, yet still within walking distance or a short boat ride to major attractions. The area is well-connected by vaporetto , making it convenient to explore other parts of Venice.

Cannaregio provides easy access to the nearby islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello. Catch a vaporetto and explore the colorful houses of Burano, the glassmaking traditions of Murano, or the historic sites of Torcello.

Jewish Ghetto is a notable landmark in the area. Established in the 16th century, it became a segregated area where the Jewish population was required to live. Today, it is a vibrant neighborhood with a synagogue, museums, and kosher restaurants.

Cannaregio is home to many traditional Venetian osterias, trattorias, and bacari to sample authentic Venetian cuisine and explore local Venetian life. Some popular spots include Fondamenta Misericordia and Strada Nova.

The Strada Nova is a bustling pedestrian street that cuts through Cannaregio, connecting the train station to the Rialto Bridge. Fondamenta della Misericordia is a charming waterfront promenade along the Cannaregio Canal and is a great place to take a stroll. 

Cannaregio is home to several beautiful churches and palaces worth visiting. The Church of Santa Maria dei Miracoli, the Church of Madonna dell’Orto are among the highlights. Palazzo Labia, an impressive Baroque palace, is another architectural gem in the district.

The area is also home to the Calle Varisc o, which is the narrowest street in Venice; and the Ca’ d’Oro , a stunning Venetian Gothic palace houses the Galleria Giorgio Franchetti, featuring an art collection with works from various periods. 

Compared to some of the more central areas, Cannaregio generally offers more affordable accommodation options , making it a suitable choice for travelers on a budget. 

Overall, Cannaregio offers an authentic Venetian experience with its local charm, convenient location, as well as budget-friendly accommodations and dining options, making it a great base for first-timers who travel on a budge t or those seeking authentic experience.

Best places to stay in Venice in Cannaregio for first-timers:

• Luxury: Radisson Collection Hotel, Palazzo Nani Venice , 5 star hotel, located close to popular Rialto Bridge, Basilica San Marco, and Santa Lucia Train Station.
• Mid-range: Ca’ Vendramin Zago , 4 star hotel located in a historic 17th-century building in a quiet location, a short walk from the train station and Piazzale Roma car park.
• Budget: Aquavenice Locazione Turistica , a guest house offers easy access to Santa Lucia Train Station, Venice Casino, and the ferry stop for the airport.

4. Dorsoduro

Dorsoduro is a popular and highly recommended area to stay in Venice, especially for first-timers. It is one of the six historic districts of Venice and is located on a large, slightly elevated island separated from the main tourist areas by the Grand Canal. 

Dorsoduro is home to some of Venice’s most renowned art galleries, including the Peggy Guggenheim Collection , which showcases modern art; the Accademia Galleries , housing an impressive collection of Venetian art; and the Ca’ Rezzonico museum , which exhibits Venetian art from the 18th century.

While Dorsoduro is not completely devoid of tourists, it tends to be less crowded compared to San Marco. This allows you to explore the neighborhood at a more leisurely pace and experience a more authentic atmosphere .

Dorsoduro is also home to the Ca’ Foscari University , one of the oldest universities in Italy, and the Ponte dell’Accademia, a famous bridge connecting Dorsoduro to the San Marco district. 

Dorsoduro is known for its vibrant nightlife scene . The area has numerous bars, restaurants, and wine shops where you can enjoy a drink or sample delicious Venetian cuisine.

Campo Santa Margherita is a popular gathering place for locals and visitors alike. It features cafes, bars, restaurants, and a daily market where you can find fresh produce, seafood, and other local products.

You can take a leisurely walk or relax at one of the waterfront cafes along the Zattere , a long waterfront promenade along the Giudecca Canal, offering stunning views of the city.

While Dorsoduro may be slightly removed from the bustling heart of Venice, it is still conveniently located and within easy access from popular attractions such as the St. Mark’s Square and the Rialto Bridge, by foot or by a short vaporetto ride.

Overall, Dorsoduro is a fantastic area to stay in Venice, particularly for first-time visitors who want to experience the city’s art and culture, enjoying a vibrant nightlife scene, as well as those seeking budget-friendly accommodations and dining options.

Best places to stay in Venice in Dorsoduro for first-timers:

• Luxury: Excess Venice Boutique Hotel & Private Spa – Adults Only , 5-star hotel, located close to San Basilio water bus station, Ca’Foscari University, as well as many  Venetian restaurants and cafés.
• Mid-range: Hotel Palazzo Stern , 4-star hotel has  wonderful rooftop terrace, centrally located within short walk from  Ca’ Rezzonico vaporetto water bus stop, 
• Budget: Hotel Ca’ Nobile Corner , 3-star hotel located in a 14th-century palace offering views over the square of Campo Santa Margherita.

5. Santa Croce

The Santa Croce is one of the six sestieri of Venice, located on the western side of the main island of Venice. It is bordered by the Grand Canal to the east and the districts of Cannaregio and San Polo to the north and south respectively.

Unlike some other parts of Venice, it has a more residential and local feel , with fewer tourists compared to the popular areas like San Marco. The neighborhood is characterized by its historic buildings, many of which date back centuries, showcasing various architectural styles.

Popular landmarks in Santa Croce are the Church of San Giacomo dell’Orio , Church of San Simeon Piccolo, Campo San Giacomo dell’Orio, and Palazzo Mocenigo .

Santa Croce is home to the Santa Lucia train station , which serves as the main gateway to Venice for those arriving by train. 

Additionally, it is also host to the Piazzale Roma , the main transportation hub in Venice, where buses, taxis, and car parks are located, making it a convenient starting point for exploring the city and a great base to stay in Venice with a car.

The neighborhood offers a mix of residential areas, local shops, and traditional eateries . It’s a great place to wander around and discover hidden gems, away from the bustling crowds. 

The Fondaco dei Turchi , a former warehouse that now houses the Museum of Natural History, is another notable attraction in the area.

Overall, Santa Croce provides a quieter and more authentic Venetian experience , as well as affordable accommodation options, while still offering easy access to the city’s main attractions and transportation options.

Best places to stay in Venice in Santa Croce for first-timers:

• Luxury: Palazzo Venart Luxury Hotel , 5-star hotel with an on-site 2-Michelin-starred restaurant. Located close to Venice Santa Lucia Train Station and San Stae water bus stop.
• Mid-range: Hotel Santa Chiara , 4 star hotel with the Grand Canal’s views, conveniently located close to the train station, Piazzale Roma with the ferry terminal and airport coach stop. It is located in the only area of the historic center that can be reached by car, offering private paid parking.  
• Budget: Hotel Olimpia Venice, BW Signature Collection , 3-star hotel, located close to the Grand Canal, the Basilica dei Frari, and the municipal car park in Piazzale Roma.

6. Castello

Castello is the largest sestiere (neighborhood) in Venice and offers a more local and residential atmosphere compared to other parts of the city. It is located east of the famous St. Mark’s Square and offers a mix of narrow streets, small squares, and picturesque canals.

One of the advantages of staying in Castello is its relative tranquility compared to the more touristy areas. The neighborhood also features several landmarks, including the Church of San Zaccaria, Museo Storico Navale, Arsenale di Venezia, and the Biennale Gardens.

You can take a stroll along Via Garibaldi, which has lively nightlife with lots of artisan shops and boutiques. Additionally, the Riva degli Schiavoni is a wonderful waterfront promenade, where you can enjoy beautiful views of the lagoon and the island of San Giorgio Maggiore. 

It is also within easy access to major attractions such as St. Mark’s Square and the Doge’s Palace, as well as the nearby islands of Burano or Murano.

Overall, Castello offers a great mix of authentic Venetian experiences, convenient access to attractions, budget-friendly hotels, and a quieter atmosphere, making it a desirable area to stay in Venice for first-timers.

Best places to stay in Venice in Castello for first-timers:

• Luxury: Palazzo Maria Formosa , 5-star hotel that provides À la carte and Italian breakfast daily.
• Mid-range: Charming Venice Apartments , located in the historic center of Venice island, the apartment provides free wifi and a fully equipped kitchen.
• Budget: Hotel Da Bruno , 3-star hotel, conveniently located between Rialto Bridge and St. Mark’s Square. 

7. Giudecca

Giudecca is an island, situated to the south of the main historic center of Venice and is separated from it by the Giudecca Canal. The island has a rich history and offers a unique experience for visitors.

Giudecca is known for its tranquil and residential atmosphere compared to the bustling streets of Venice. It has a more local and relaxed vibe, making it a popular choice for those looking for a quieter escape from the crowds.

One of the popular landmarks on the island is the 16th century Chiesa del Santissimo Redentore that is known for its annual festival called the Festa del Redentore in July, featuring fireworks and a temporary bridge connecting Giudecca to the rest of Venice.

Another attraction on Giudecca is the Church of Santa Eufemia. It is an ancient church that dates back to the 9th century and offers stunning views of the lagoon from its bell tower.

The eastern part of Giudecca is home to various art galleries and studios. The island has become a hub for contemporary art and hosts the annual Venice Glass Week , which celebrates the city’s renowned glassmaking tradition.

To reach Giudecca, you can take a vaporetto from various locations in Venice, including San Marco and Zattere. The island is easily accessible and makes for a great day trip or a place to stay if you prefer a quieter setting.

Overall, Giudecca offers a charming and authentic Venetian experience away from the crowds, with its beautiful churches, art scene, and scenic waterfront areas. It’s a great place to explore and discover a different side of Venice.

Best places to stay in Venice in Giudecca for first-timers:

• Luxury: Hotel Cipriani, A Belmond Hotel, Venice , 5-star hotel with the views of Venice Lagoon and the Doge’s Palace.
• Mid-range: Al Redentore Di Venezia , located in a historic 19th-century building, provides self-catering apartments. Close to Vaporetto water bus stop.
• Budget: Hotel Giudecca Venezia , 3-star hotel located on Giudecca island, with a private dock for water taxi, plus easy walk from Vaporetto lines 2, 41 and 42 stop.

Lido di Venezia, commonly known as the Lido, is a barrier island in the Venetian Lagoon . It is situated just off the coast of the historic city of Venice and is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

The Lido is known for its beautiful sandy beaches , making it a popular spot for sunbathing, swimming, and other beach activities. The island stretches for about 11 kilometers and is connected to the main city of Venice by a regular ferry service.

Aside from its beaches, the Lido is also famous for hosting the Venice Film Festival , one of the oldest and most prestigious film festivals in the world. Every year, filmmakers, actors, and film enthusiasts from around the globe gather on the Lido to celebrate and showcase the best of international cinema.

The Lido offers a range of accommodations, from luxurious hotels to more budget-friendly options . The main street on the island, Gran Viale Santa Maria Elisabetta, is lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes, providing plenty of options for dining and shopping.

One of the unique features of the Lido is its absence of cars. Instead, bicycles and pedestrians are the primary modes of transportation on the island, making it a peaceful and pleasant place to explore. You can rent bicycles or simply take leisurely walks to discover the island’s charm and natural beauty.

While visiting the Lido, you can also take the opportunity to explore the main city of Venice. From the Lido, you can easily reach Venice’s famous landmarks , such as St. Mark’s Square, the Rialto Bridge, and the Doge’s Palace, by taking a vaporetto (water bus) or a water taxi.

Overall, the Lido offers a unique combination of sandy beaches, cultural events, and proximity to the enchanting city of Venice, making it a popular destination for first-time travelers seeking both relaxation and exploration.

Best places to stay in Venice in Lido for first-timers:

• Luxury: Hotel Excelsior Venice , 5-star hotel located right on the beach on Venice Lido.
• Mid-range: Hotel Petit Palais , 4-star hotel, located right by the Cinema Palace, location of the Venice Film Festival. It is easy to reach from Saint Mark’s Square by boat.
• Budget: Hotel Rivamare , 3-star hotel, located close to Palazzo del Cinema and the Beach. It is to reach from Saint Mark’s Square.

Mestre is not actually part of Venice itself; it is a mainland town located just across the lagoon from Venice. It has good transport links to Venice’s main island, with regular train and bus services connecting the two areas. 

Most tourists prefer to stay in Venice’s historic center, which consists of six sestieri to experience Venice’s unique atmosphere, but the accommodation in Venice island is more expensive than in Mestre.

Mestre is a practical option for some travelers, especially if you’re on a budget or prefer a quieter atmosphere. If you’re traveling by car, Mestre offers more options for parking compared to the limited and expensive parking facilities in Venice’s historic center. 

Many hotels in Mestre provide parking spaces or have arrangements with nearby garages, making it easier to navigate with a vehicle.

While transportation options to Venice are readily available from Mestre, you’ll need to consider the additional cost of commuting back and forth between Mestre and Venice. This cost should be factored into your overall budget.

If you choose to stay in Mestre, make sure to check the transportation options and consider the additional travel time to and from Venice when planning your activities.

Best places to stay in Venice in Mestre for first-timers:

• Mid-range: Hotel President , 4-star hotel, located within a 10-minute bus ride from Venice. It is also within a few minutes walk from bus stops for Venice and Marco Polo airport, and Mestre’s shopping area.
• Budget: Hotel Venezia , free parking for cars, surrounded by restaurants, cafes, and shops, within 15 minutes walk from Mestre Train Station.
• Budget: Hotel Adria , conveniently located a 15-minute walk from Mestre Train Station, with frequent connections to Venice.
• Where to Stay in Venice on a budget
• Where to Stay in Venice with Family
• Best places to stay in Lake Garda without a car

In conclusion, San Marco, San Polo, Cannaregio, Dorsoduro, Santa Croce, and Castello are the best places to stay in Venice for first-timers and tourists . San Marco offers a central location with iconic landmarks, while San Polo and Dorsoduro provide an authentic Venetian experience. 

Cannaregio and Castello offer a mix of local life and historical sites. Santa Croce is ideal for its proximity to the train station, while Giudecca offers a quieter atmosphere. Lido is perfect for beach lovers, and Mestre is a convenient option for budget-conscious travelers. 

Choose the area that suits your interests and priorities to make the most of your stay in Venice. I personally spent 5 days in Venice and stayed in San Marco, which allows me to explore most of the major attractions of Venice on foot.

About Author: Ocean Cameron

I'm Ocean, founder and main editor of travelhotelexpert.com. I’m a passionate traveler who specializes in uncovering the best hotels and locations in every city, especially for first-timers, all without the need for a car.

Disclosure: This page contains affiliate links. This means that, at absolutely no additional cost to you, I'll earn a small commission if you click through and purchase something I've recommended. I only recommend products that I use myself or firmly believe in. Thank you!

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Top 5 Holidays in Italy To Take in 2024

From sicily to tuscany, italian lakes to amalfi coast, i’ve got 5 great holidays in italy to take this year, with flights, hotels, meals and tours included..

I have been very fortunate to travel to many places over the years, but my holidays in Italy are up there with the best of them. It is hard to find a country that inspires as much as Italy. From stunning lakes to beautiful beaches, captivating cities to the prettiest hill top towns; Italy is also home to 58 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and let’s not forget the food – Italy has is all.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sarah Slattery – Travel Expert (@the_travel_expert)

I have chosen five holidays in Italy from Travel Department below and all include flights, transfers, accommodation, tours, and a local expert guide. And that’s not all…

You can now get even more savings with Travel Department with my exclusive discounts which are valid on 2024 holidays.

• Save €100p* on holidays of 8 nights or more TTE100
• Save €60pp* on holidays of 7 nights TTE60
• Save €30pp* on holidays of 6 nights or less TTE30

The Italy holidays below are just a sample of the many offerings available from Travel Department. If you prefer to discuss your requirements with one of their expert sales team, please call Travel Department on 01 6371650 , and quote The Travel Expert , or view all of their Italy holidays here:

1. The Italian Lakes

When it comes to holidays in Italy’s lake district, the hardest decision is which lake to choose. Italy’s largest lake, Lake Garda, is a firm favourite with holidaymakers and has over 50 beautiful villages and historic towns to explore. However, don’t overlook Lake Como – there is a reason it is the destination of choice for discerning travellers and celebrities!

Travel Department offer a wide range of group holidays to the Italian Lakes, including five and seven night trips to Lake Garda, as well as Christmas market and New Year breaks.

I have highlighted two options below to give you a flavour of what is available, but there are many more available on their website.

Lake Garda with tours to Venice & Verona: 7 Nights, Half Board, from €899pp

This seven-night Italy group tour allows you to discover the stunning cities of Venice and Verona, as well as the lakeside towns and villages of Lake Garda.

Visit Verona’s magnificent Roman amphitheatre and Juliet’s famous balcony, and have an obligatory coffee on St Marks Square or a gondola ride in Venice.

Two full day excursions are included in the cost, as well as a boat trip around Lake Garda during the summer months. You will also have the choice to book optional excursions or enjoy your surroundings at your leisure on alternative days.

Price includes flights, transfers, checked baggage and a seven-night stay in Riva del Garda on a half board basis. Full day tours to Venice, Verona and a half-day boat trip around Lake Garda or excursion to Bolzano, are also included.

Lake Como with tours to Milan and Swiss Alps: 7 Nights, Half Board, from €899pp

Lake Como has been the destination of choice for celebrities for many years, but with prices like these, there is no reason why we can’t join them! Spend seven nights exploring this exclusive destination, with a half-day boat cruise to the pretty town of Bellagio, as well as three full days at leisure.

A day trip to Milan is also included and a panoramic train journey on the Bernina Express through the Italian and Swiss Alps. Visit pretty alpine villages and the glamorous Swiss town of St. Moritz.

Price from €899 includes flights, transfers, checked baggage and a seven-night stay in Lake Como on a half board basis. Full day tour to Milan, train journey on the Bernina Express and a half-day boat cruise on Lake Como are also included. Solo traveller trips are available from €1299.

Tuscany is one of my favourite regions in Italy. I have visited on many occasions and would you believe we almost bought a house there 20 years ago! As well as the stunning cities of Florence and Sienna and it’s medieval walled towns, scenic drives through Tuscany’s rolling hills are an attraction in itself. And let’s not forget the wine, Tuscany is the home of Chianti after all.

Classic Tuscany including Florence & Pisa: 7 Nights, Half Board, from €1049pp

This fabulous itinerary takes in the iconic cities of Florence and Pisa as well as some of my favourite parts of Tuscany – Sienna, Lucca and San Gimignano. You will be staying in the beautiful spa town of Montecatini, which is the perfect base to explore Tuscany, and a town I know well.

Visit Florence’s stunning Duomo, Pisa’s Leaning Tower, Sienna’s Piazza del Campo, and explore the medieval towns of Lucca and San Gimignano. As well as guided tours you will also have three full days to explore Tuscany at your leisure.

Price from €1049 includes flights, transfers, checked baggage and a seven-night stay in Montecatini on a half board basis. Three full day tours Florence, Sienna and San Gimignano, and Lucca and Pisa, are included. Solo traveller trips are available from €1349, and Christmas and New Year trips are also available.

3. The Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast is on the top of every holidays in Italy bucket list! From the pastel coloured village of Positano to the hill top town of Ravello, the ancient ruins of Pompeii to the stunning island of Capri – there is so much to see on the Amalfi Coast.

An escorted tour of the Amalfi Coast is a great way to see it properly, and trust me, you will appreciate having someone else behind the wheel so you can admire the views of the Bay of Naples in comfort.

Sorrento including Amalfi Coast, Pompeii and Capri: 7 Nights, Half Board, from €1039pp

This super itinerary will ensure you see most the highlights in one epic trip. You will be staying in the popular resort of Sorrento and also have three full days to explore the Amalfi Coast at your leisure.

Discover the Amalfi Coast from the sea and land on a full day guided tour. Drive the Amalfi Coast as far as Salerno and enjoy a scenic boat trip afterwards where you will stop in the stunning towns of Positano and Amalfi.

You will also learn about the ancient Roman town of Pompeii while enjoying a guided tour of the excavations, and get the chance to explore the stunning island of Capri on a full day guided tour.

Price from €1039 includes flights, transfers, checked baggage and a seven-night stay in Sorrento on a half board basis. Full day guided tours to the island of Capri and Amalfi Coast, half day tours of Pompeii and Sorrento town are included.

I visited Rome for the third time recently and I can safely say it won’t be my last. No matter how many times I see the Eternal City I still find myself in awe of its beauty. It is like an open air museum, with ancient wonders at every corner, and having an expert guide on hand to showcase it properly is key to understanding its history.

Travel Department offer a variety of Rome holidays including classic city breaks, trips including Umbria and Assisi, and trips over religious holidays such as Easter.

Rome city break: 3 Nights, B&B, from €629pp

Experience the magic of Rome on this three-night city break. Enjoy a guided tour of the city and visit the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, Saint Peter in Chains Basilica, Piazza Venezia and the iconic Trevi Fountain, before having an afternoon at leisure to soak up the atmosphere.

You will also have a full day at your leisure to visit the Sistine Chapel and St Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican, or simply enjoy Rome’s historic centre. Visit the Piazza Navona, Spanish Steps and take time for a nice lunch in the pretty neighbourhood of Trastevere.

Price from €629 includes flights, transfers, checked baggage and a three-night stay in a 4-star Albani Roma Hotel on a bed & breakfast basis. Guided tour as per itinerary is also included. Solo traveller option available from €728.

Guided tours of Sicily are highly sought after this year. The hugely popular TV series The White Lotus was filmed there, which showcased Sicily’s stunning scenery and the beautiful hilltop town of Taormina.

However, Travel Department’s group tours will not only show you Sicily’s charming towns and villages, you will also learn about the fascinating history of the Mediterranean’s largest island.

Travel Department have a variety of tours available, including combination holidays with beach and city stays, as well as trips to the nearby Aeolian islands, and solo traveller options.

Sicily and the Aeolian Islands: 7 Nights, Half Board, from €1329pp

This fabulous itinerary combines a stay in the beach town of Gardini Naxos with guided tours to Sicily’s top attractions, as well as a full day sailing trip.

Visit magnificent Mount Etna and enjoy panoramic views over the coast and countryside, before visiting the hilltop town of Taormina, where The White Lotus was filmed. I stayed in this beautiful town many years ago, and this visit includes a guided tour of its famed Greek theatre.

A full day guided excursion to Syracuse is also included, as well as a sailing trip to the crystal clear waters of the Aeolian islands. You will also have three full days to explore at your leisure, or to simply relax on the beach beside your hotel.

Price from €1329 includes flights, transfers, checked baggage and a seven-night stay in a 4-star Unahotels Naxos Beach Sicilia on a half board basis. Guided tours as per itinerary. Solo traveller holidays to Sicily available from €1599.

I hope this post on holidays in Italy will help you plan a trip there soon. If you prefer to discuss your requirements with one of the Travel Department’s expert sales team, please call them on 01 6371650 , See more group tours to destinations around the world from Travel Department here:

Read: Top 10 Escorted tours from Ireland

While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, prices and itineraries are subject to change. Some of the links in this post contain affiliate links where I receive a small commission if a booking is made. This post was sponsored by Travel Department, but all views, as always, are by own.

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Living in Venice: Discover Local Life Beyond Tourism with Expert Monica Cesarato A New Life in Italy

Welcome back to another episode of "A New Life in Italy." I'm your host, Samantha Wilson, and today we're taking a special journey to Venice. But we're not talking about the Venice you're used to seeing on social media or in travel brochures; we're exploring the authentic Venice, the one that locals call home. I'm thrilled to have my friend Monica Cesarato join us. She's a Venetian local, and a renowned tour guide, and you might know her from her Instagram, her books, or her podcast "Venice Talks" on Sentire Media. Monica is here to give us the insider scoop on the real Venice, from the best quiet neighborhoods to the true costs of living in a floating city. Venice is known for its canals, history, and Carnavale, but beyond the picturesque scenes, there's a vibrant community living a rich life. We'll dive into the daily routines of Venetians, how they shop, eat, and play while avoiding tourist traps. This episode is your golden ticket to discover the lesser-known aspects of Venetian life and perhaps how you can make this city your new home. Whether you're dreaming of moving to Venice or just curious about the reality behind its fairy tale facade, this show is for you. Remember to check out the show notes for all of Monica's details, and don't miss her podcast "Venice Talks" for an even deeper dive into Venetian life. Until next time, ciao for now! Visit Monica's Webiste Listen to her podcast Venice Talks Rate, Review, & Follow If you loved this episode and want to hear more, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to move toward their new life in Italy and live the life they deserve. To rate, scroll to the top tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. I’m adding new episodes every week and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now! If you want to learn more about ways that my team and I can help you live your dream life in Italy, visit us at www.smartmoveitaly.com or send me an email!  Until next time!  Ci vediamo! Mentioned in this episode: Sentire Media Website Sentire Media Website

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Venice’s Tourist Fee Is Now in Effect — What to Know

The fee is in place for day-visitors over 14 years old from 8.30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Stacey Wreathall/Travel + Leisure

Day visitors to Venice on Thursday had to pay to get in as the famous city started implementing the much-talked about day trip fee.

Travelers hoping to explore the Italian city had to pony up €5 ($5.36) per person at the train station. The fee, which was first floated as an idea in 2019 but postponed several times , will initially be in effect for 29 days and cover most weekends through mid-July.

“We need to find a new balance between the tourists and residents,’’ Simone Venturini, the city’s top tourism official, told The Associated Press . “We need to safeguard the spaces of the residents, of course, and we need to discourage the arrival of day-trippers on some particular days.”

The dates the fee is in effect were displayed on large signs at Venice’s main train station on Thursday, the wire service reported, with separate entrances available for tourists, and residents, students, and workers.

The fee, which is in effect for travelers over 14 years old from 8.30 a.m. to 4 p.m., can be paid online . Day visitors who pay in advance receive a QR code, which they must then show to officials at Venice's main access points.

On Thursday, the AP noted there were stewards available to help travelers unaware of the new rules to download the QR code and pay.

Tourists who are staying overnight will not have to pay the new day fee, but must apply online for an exemption . Overnight guests who book a hotel stay are already subject to a different tax.

This fee is the city’s latest effort to address overtourism. In January, Venice built on that goal by announcing plans to limit the number of travelers allowed on tour groups to no more than 25 people. That rule will apply to Venice’s historic center as well as the popular islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello.

These efforts come months after UNESCO spared Venice from its list of world heritage sites in danger once again despite recommendations to add it.

Venice implements new access fees for day-trippers: What to know about the new system

Peak summer travel season is fast approaching, and some cities abroad have already implemented fees in an attempt to protect popular destinations from potential damage from increased tourism.

Bustling European cities from Barcelona to Amsterdam that get flooded with tourists, especially at historical hotspots during the high season, have used tourist taxes to help raise revenue without taxing local citizens.

Now, the city of bridges is following in the footsteps of Spain, Greece and Germany, which have all utilized a similar fee-based approach, testing a new entry fee for any visitors who come to Venice just for the day.

Earlier this year, the coastal city, known for it's lagoon, hand-blown glass and close proximity to the heart of Italy's popular Prosecco region, announced a new reservation system that would charge day trippers 5 euros to enter and enjoy Venice.

With nearly 40,000 visitors on average per day -- nearly double the city's population -- local authorities hope this move will help protect the UNESCO World Heritage Site from the influx of tourists.

Starting Thursday, travelers can download an app to pay and attain a QR code, which will be checked by inspectors to enter the city as a visitor. If someone traveling for the day in Venice is caught without the code, they may face a fine of up to 300 euros.

"It is not a revolution, but the first step of a path that regulates the access of daily visitors. An experiment that aims to improve the liveability of the city, who lives there and who works there. We will carry it forward with great humility and with the awareness that there may be problems," Venice Mayor Luigi Brugnaro said in a statement on X regarding the announcement.

"The margins of error are wide, but we are ready, with humility and courage, to make all the changes that will serve to improve the procedure. Venice is the first city in the world to implement this path, which can be an example for other fragile and delicate cities that must be safeguarded," he continued.

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Simone Venturini, Venice city councilor for tourism, told ABC News that the smart control center is within the most important part of the city -- Piazza San Marco, or St. Mark's Square.

"Authorities will use the new QR codes, plus cell phone data and the roughly 700 cameras around Venice to track and potentially regulate visitors," he explained. "We are switching to action after 60 years of only debate... our ultimate goal is to find a new balance between the needs of the residents and the needs of tourists."

Venturini told ABC News local officials had "a lot of discussion" with leaders in other cities who have worked to combat overtourism, including Amsterdam, Barcelona and Kyoto.

"We are talking together just to find the solution," he said.

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A trip to Italy is too special to get wrong. Here's how to do it right. (San Gimignano, Tuscany)

I absolutely love Italy, for many different reasons. But I hate the way in which many Americans go about planning trips there. Survey after survey shows it is the number one dream destination for U.S. leisure travelers, but the way those travelers get their information and advice gives me nightmares.

Throughout the years I’ve heard people say over and over that “I was told to do this in Italy,” or “I was told not to do this in Italy.” By who? “A friend.” I have close friends who recently planned their entire 12-day trip on the basis of another couple they knew who gave them advice—after their first visit. I’ve heard of many people who skipped Rome because “we heard it was too busy, just another big city.” Or passed on Venice, one of the world’s most magical destinations, because, “I heard it was touristy.”

There are American tourists who say you should skip Venice. They are wrong.

It goes on and on, but suffice to say, I have been to Italy in the neighborhood of two dozen times, summer and winter, for food, wine, skiing, golf, hiking, cycling and more food, from north to south and east to west and islands too, and I know a lot about Italian cuisine, but I still ask real experts for advice every time I go. I specifically ask for advice on where to eat, what to see, and who to choose as guides. And by experts, I mean people how live in Italy, specialize in particular areas of travel, and know their subject matter.

“We get multiple guests a year who want to wing it,” says Cherrye Moore, owner of My Bella Vita travel. Moore moved to Calabria two decades ago after falling in love with the region on a visit, and opened a bed and breakfast, learning about what her visitors were looking for. Her company now specializes in planning trips—especially foodie and ancestry trips—to the area in Southern Italy where many Italian Americans trace their heritage. “They say, ‘My neighbor just showed up in their family’s hometown and it went great for them,’ or, ‘Our friends went to Italy last year and said we don't need a driver.’ It’s true that you can rent a car and drive to your family’s hometown, but that experience is vastly different from having a dedicated driver and a heritage specialist who has done research on your family’s history, who has already identified the home your grandfather was born in, and who has arranged meetings with locals upon your arrival.”

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Anyone can tour the Vatican, but only the right guides can get you a private visit.

I just got back from an exploration of Turin followed by a weeklong hiking trip in surrounding Piemonte, Italy’s most prestigious wine region, which included multiple winery visits. For restaurants and guides and sightseeing in Turin I used an Italian-based travel specialist that is the choice of many of the best luxury travel agents/advisors in this country (the best travel agents are savvy enough to know what they do not know and regularly rely on local experts). For the hiking trip, I used an Italy-based active travel specialist that does nothing else, and does it with a food-centric spin. It was another fantastic Italy trip, one amazing day after another, featuring many meals, wineries and experiences I never would have found by myself, especially by asking random friends or watching You Tube influencer videos by people with far less Italy experience than myself.

“We don’t focus on stars or diamonds, we focus on really special one-of-a-kind experiences and lodging that lets you discover our Italy,” said Heather Dowd, who lives in Turin and along with her Italian husband Beppe Salerno. They run Tourissimo , the active travel company we used. We had several friends hiking with us who were on either their very first or second trip to Italy, and when we reviewed our experiences at the end for the trip, one place we stayed, an 18 th century castle turned boutique hotel, was the overwhelming favorite. It did not have whirlpool tubs or Frette linens, it did not have a concierge or room service, but it had excellent food and beautiful gardens in which we had an epic dinner. It had cooking classes, a great location, a fun aperitivo evening cocktail session, and most of all, incredible charm..

Everyone wants the perfect meal in Italy, but not everyone knows where the locals go to find it.

It was exactly what my first timers dreamed Italy would be like, and it was a place we never would have found online. It was perfect, and even in Italy not every place is, but the reality is that Heather and Beppe and their guides spend a lot of time behind the scenes visiting small hotels and vetting them, way more time than the people who rate their stays on booking websites. One of my friends was so impressed he is already planning an extended family hiking trip to Sicily with Tourissimo next year.

If you want to have an insider experience in Italy, and see the places locals go, you need a local insider to help you out.

“Our goal is for guests to experience Calabria like we do, so we’ve built experiences that aren’t available online,” said My Bella Vita’s Moore. “Nowhere else can you find a multi-course lunch hosted at Zia Pina’s or a picnic prepared and delivered by Signora Francesca. Lunch in the home of our friend, Chef Massimo, isn’t available on Google. When creating or reviewing experiences I always think of my sister in Texas. If she were visiting, would I take her here? If that answer is yes, I know we have a winner.” That is exactly the standard by which I’d like my Italy travels to be judged.

A trip to Italy is a beautiful, special, and almost sacred experience, so don’t screw it up by taking bad advice. I do not know every local specialist—and I hope to keep finding more—but I know several experts I would recommend for different kinds of travel. Or use a good travel advisor, something I recommend for all travel (Read my article Why You Need A Travel Agent More Than Ever here at Forbes ), and communicate with them to ensure they are on the same page in terms of sourcing these kinds of local experts. If they are good, they will already be familiar with several of these companies.

Active Travel

All of Tourissimo's cycling and hiking trips in Italy emphasize food and wine, which is how it ... [+] should be.

Italy has long been the dream destination of cyclists, with Tuscany atop the Bucket List for global road riding destinations. But for the past few years the fastest growing sector of cycling has been “gravel grinding,” and with hundreds of miles of its stunning unpaved “white roads,” Tuscany has also emerged as the world’s top travel spot for gravel lovers. There are also plenty of other amazing places to ride in Italy, including Piemonte, Sardinia, Puglia, the Lakes region, and many other areas. World class hiking abounds, especially the stunning Dolomites—a UNESCO World Heritage Site of beauty unmatched by most other mountain regions on earth. Beyond this there are the Alps in the east, the Cinque Terre, Sardinia, and many other great options.

Italy is so well known for cycling and hiking that every major active travel company in the world runs trips there. But for my last two active trips, one hiking and one biking, I chose a tour operator that is actually based there, founded by an Italian with a passion for cycling and food. Tourissimo may be Italian, but they cater to the American market, and founder Beppe Salerno worked for am American cycling company as a guide before realizing he could do the real Italy better himself—to me, the perfect startup rationale. Over the years since, Tourissimo has grown its library of offerings, with both with an array of scheduled group trips and private custom options. While they do mostly road riding, they are notably one of the only tour operators scheduling gravel trips, and can also arrange custom mountain biking itineraries, with years of expertise in cycling and hiking.

Superstar Chef Mary Sue Milliken has led about galf a dozen Chef's Cycling Tours in Italy for ... [+] Tourissimo.

In addition, Tourissimo has also been a pioneer in “Active Culinary Travel,” a hot new category I have written about here at Forbes (and for other magazines and newspapers). They offer an annual series of six group rides (and a hike) each hosted by an acclaimed chef like Mary Sue Milliken, an award-winning chef, restaurateur, cookbook author (five!) and co-host of the popular PBS cooking show Two Hot Tamales . She is also an avid cyclist and has led the Tourissimo Chef Bike Tours for several years, along with other big names. These trips are a unique option for serious foodies who also ride, while the other trips cater to just about anyone. Otherwise they offer several styles of trips, from Bici Basics for new riders to Ambitious Tours for the more hard core.

Tourissimo puts a focus on local, choosing small and often historic hotels that they have curated and vetted (like the castle I just stayed at in Piemonte), places that you would never be able to distinguish from hundreds of other non-chain options online. Same for restaurants, wineries, and all the other ways they take you behind the scenes and into their real Italy. Their Mission Statement? “We don't want to be the biggest adventure travel company. We want to design and run the best tours in Italy. We strive to be the most authentic and the most beneficial to local communities.” Fantastico!

Bellagio on Lake Como is one of the most famous destinations in Italy — and the perfect place for a ... [+] food-centric bike tour!

Bike It! Bellagio offers another insider biking experience on a much different scale, providing a great one-day experience for visitors to Italy’s most famous lake town. This bike shop on Lake Como is run by a former pro racer and his wife. They rent bikes (road, mountain and e-bikes) out, but also offer one-day guided tours with multiple food and drink stops. Given that the owner grew up here and knows everyone, it’s not surprising that the food and drink spots are insider picks. The shop sits near the iconic Madonna del Ghisallo climb, the most famous in the Giro di Lombardia, a race more than a century old, and several days a week the shop offers guided group rides with a climb of the pass, on road or e-bikes—Bianchi bikes of course!

There are scheduled tours Monday through Saturday, as well as wide range of customizable private tours. These are often taken by families with mixed ages, but for more aggressive riders they offer longer road tours, mountain biking and gravel riding, along with a wide range of less demanding e-bike tours, including some even more focused on food and wine. They also offer a handful of multi-day tours and can put these together as custom on demand, usually for groups, including an iconic coast to coast traverse of Italy. If you are a guest of one of the many stunning (and pricey) ultra-luxury hotels around Bellagio, and ask the concierge to arrange a bike tour, they are likely going to call this shop anyway (and mark it up) so just do it yourself.

Luxury Travel in Italy

From planning your entire itinerary with flights, hotels, and transfers to just booking the best tours, guides and VIP access (often to non-public highlights), it pays to use a top local specialist.

Last year I attended the annual Virtuoso Travel Week in Las Vegas, which has been called “the Oscars of the travel industry.” Virtuoso is the leading global luxury travel consortium, and many of the best travel advisors on earth belong, So does just about every top hotel, resort, safari lodge, cruise line, and luxury tour operator. Virtuoso CEO Matthew Upchurch was explaining the many advantages of using a travel advisor (I wholeheartedly agree) and something he said really stuck with me. He explained that with all of the new online tour booking companies, it was easier than ever to book a tour or guide in just about any destination on earth, but harder than ever to judge the quality. The caveat was that, “you can book a guide, but you can’t book my guide.”

One of Italy's greatest hidden gems, Turin was the nation's first capital and a Winter Olympic host. ... [+] It's worth getting a good guide if you visit.

The Vatican is the Vatican and the Colosseum is the Colosseum, so when you opt for a guided tour, what really matters and makes it a good, bad or great experience is the guide—and their special access, like a tour of the Vatican when no one else is there.

For my recent trip to Turin, I called Imago Artis Travel , an Italy-based luxury travel specialist. They are what is known in the travel industry as a destination management company or DMC, the same companies luxury travel agents call to arrange local details for their clients. There are great DMCs all over the world, and local knowledge is valuable everywhere, but many of them do not deal directly with travelers, while in Italy the best ones do.

I wanted a private day tour of Turin and its surrounding attractions for my wife and I, most importantly the Reggia di Venaria Reale, aka the “Italian Versailles” (one of two places in Italy with this lofty but accurate nickname). The guide they got for me was a licensed guide, and lifelong resident of Turin, and spoke excellent English, which was all good, but she was also an architect, which was great in a city where so much is driven by architecture. That’s not so easy to find on global tour aggregator website. Imago Artis also gave me a list of their favorite restaurant recommendations, which were spot on, then made my reservations for me. At a minimum this eliminates the language barrier of calling or the technology barrier of booking through often tricky (or non-functional) Italian restaurant reservation websites, but in many cases it also gets you a better table and instant VIP treatment—which definitely does not happen when I book myself.

Italy is rich in world-class crafts, and companies like Imago Artis can take you behind the scenes ... [+] to meet the makers.

Imago Artis Travel is a Virtuoso member, which means when you book through them, if you book your luxury hotel, you get extras like room upgrades, late checkout, spa credits etc., one of the big advantages of working with Virtuoso travel advisors. If you have a bigger budget than I do, they can handle all sorts of luxury transport, private jets, helicopters, boat charters, and also offer VIP Meet and Greet services at just about every airport in Italy. They can even arrange private security details. On a more accessible luxury level, they specialize in exclusive experiences, unlocking historic buildings and art collections not open to the public, and taking you behind the scenes with many artisans of Italy, from custom shoemakers to sculptors to jewelry designers. They know food, they know the guides, and I especially like their mission statement, “Our mission is simple: Getting You to the Heart of Italy.” That’s what it is all about.

Another top luxury DMC that is also a member of Virtuoso that I have used in the past with great success is IC Bellagio . They offer a similar array of luxury services and are very well connected, but they also specialize in Villa rentals as well as 5-Star hotels. Differentiating villas in Italy may be the single biggest challenge, more so than restaurants, with so many options and so few valid reviews. IC Bellagio has also boldly acknowledged the overtourism problems some of the most popular parts of Italy face, and are pushing “Slow Season Travel,” which varies in each of the country’s 20 regions but is something they are expert in. Last winter I went to Venice in the off-season, and it was spectacular, and I just traveled in a slow season to Piemonte. It was much, much better than fighting the crowds.

Skiing in Italy is awesome, and it's the best place in the world to stay in mountain rifugios — but ... [+] you need help for the perfect trip.

Skiing in Italy remains a bit under the radar for Europe, especially compared to France and Switzerland. Well, let the crowds go to other countries, because Italy has two different major ski regions, both of which have hosted the Winter Olympics, and the Games are returning to Milan and Cortina in 2026. The interconnected Dolomiti SuperSki lift and trail network in the Dolomites is arguably the largest “ski resort” in the world, and inarguably one of the most beautiful mountain landscapes on the planet. The towns are charming, the food is great, there are spectacular hotels from non-chain independent hidden gems to world-class luxury (Aman, Mandarin Oriental, Relais & Chateaux, etc.) and it’s cheaper than much of the rest of Europe. Did I mention the food?

I first went to the Dolomites to go hiking, and was so wowed I thought, “I have to come back and ski here.” I came back the next winter and skied, and the following year I got a group of friends together and went back. I have skied all over the U.S., and all over the world and never had the same compulsion to return to the same place immediately. That’s how good skiing in Italy is ( read much more in my Italy skiing piece here at Forbes ).

I’ve only used one company for ski travel in Italy and see no reason to switch gears, especially since the local logistics (a great guide/instructor, transfers, the best on-mountain meals and staying a couple of nights in the region’s unique on-mountain rifugios) is very hard to organize on your own. The company is Dolomite Mountains , a specialist in both resort ski vacations and backcountry touring trips (using skins and alpine touring or AT gear). They too are a U.S. facing company with mainly American clientele.

Like many active travel companies, they offer both group trip scheduled departure options and private custom trips to fit whatever you want. The group option is called the Dolomites Ski Safari and is a 7-day trip mixing stays in amazing rifugios with in-town hotels (4 and 5-stars on the Italian system) and includes all breakfasts and dinners, a full-time guide, ski pass, luggage transfers and more. Custom options include the same kind of trip for your own group, or anything you want, and while its name suggests local expertise—quite true—Dolomite Mountains also handles ski trips in the rest of Italy, like Courmayeur, and connected border regions of France, Switzerland and Austria, as many lift systems here know no national boundaries (ski with your passport!). They are also a Virtuoso member.

Calabria & Southern Italy

Many Italian Americans trace their ancestry to Southern Italy's Calabria, and if you want to visit, ... [+] make sure you do it right.

My Bella Vita travel focuses on this area, including both small group trips and custom privates. Their specialties include “Heritage Tours” for those interested in their ancestry, and a food focus for the rest of us. For instance, Taste of the South is a 12-day gastronomic journey through Calabria, Basilicata and Naples—the birthplace of pizza! Food & Wine of Calabria is an 11-daty trip and just what it sounds like.

These are some of the scheduled small group tours offered, but the rest of their business is private trip planning and custom options.

“Italy is deceivingly large, and travelers think two weeks is enough time to see everything. It isn’t,” insists Moore. “You can’t even experience all of Calabria in two weeks. Our team collectively spends about six months a year scouting new hotels, restaurants, and experiences in Calabria and we are constantly re-evaluating and tweaking our recommendations.”

There are some other Italy specialists I have not personally experienced, but that come highly recommended by some of my other experts:

My Bella Vita’s Cherrye Moore says, “ In Sicily, I recommend Lucia Davies of Sicily Tour , one of a trio of British expats who have lived in Siracusa, Sicily for decades.” A family-owned tour-guiding company based in Siracusa, they have nearly 40 years of experience on the island and create trips fostering cultural exchange between Italy and English-speaking visitors, specializing in small group and custom tours.

Food & Wine

Life is too short to go to Italy and not eat well.

Beppe and Heather Dowd of Tourissimo recommend Lazy Italian Culinary Adventures , a company that has also earned kudos from other travel industry folks I know. Owner Francesca Montillo grew up in Southern Italy where her father was greengrocer. An Italian-American cookbook author, she launched the company a decade ago, and she personally leads the tours. She does numerous scheduled tours to different regions each year, and also offers custom private itineraries.

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Venice entry fee launches: Day-trippers now have to pay to visit the Italian city at peak times

Venice has rolled out a tourism tax to try to stop overcowding on peak weekends.

Last November, Venice authorities unveiled a pilot program for their long-mooted plan to charge day-trippers to visit the city. 

Today (25 April) the pilot programme has finally come into force.

Signs advising arriving visitors of the new €5 fee for a test phase of 29 days through July have been erected outside the main train station and other points of arrival.

Some 200 stewards have been trained to politely walk anyone unaware of the fee through the process of downloading a QR code. A kiosk has been set up for those not equipped with a smartphone. Once past designated entry ports, officials will carry out random checks for QR codes that show the day-tripper tax has been paid or that the bearer is exempt.

Transgressors face fines of between €50 and €300. The requirement applies only for people arriving between 8.30 am and 4 pm. Outside of those hours, access is free.

Tourists can book tickets and get their QR code via the  online payment platform , which went live on 16 January. 

The entry fee aims to reduce crowds, encourage longer visits and improve quality of life for residents. 

Here's everything you need to know about what you have to pay and why. 

Why is Venice introducing a tourist tax?

The rollout of the tourist tax comes after Venice narrowly escaped being placed on UNESCO's danger list last year because of the damage from overtourism on its delicate ecosystem. 

Member states cited the proposed new entry fee in deciding to spare Venice from the list.

Venice mayor Luigi Brugnaro said that the fee is not an attempt to bring in extra revenue. Rather, it is a 'first-of-its-kind experiment' to regulate tourist flows in one of the world’s most-visited places . 

The aim of the charge is to incentivise visitors to avoid high-traffic periods and come on other days.

“Our attempt is to make a more liveable city,” he said at a news conference outlining the pilot program.

The city is strained when the number of day-trippers reaches 30,000 to 40,000, according to the city’s top tourism official, Simone Venturini. Its narrow alleyways are clogged with people and water taxis packed, making it difficult for residents to go about their business.

“We need to find a new balance between the tourists and residents,’’ he said. “We need to safeguard the spaces of the residents, of course, and we need to discourage the arrival of day-trippers on some particular days.”

• Exclusive: Venice u-turns on overtourism tax this summer despite record visitor numbers
• We’ve travelled too cheap for too long: Are tourism taxes a good idea?

When will visitors have to pay to visit Venice?

Starting on 25 April 2024, visitors will have to pay a fee of €5 to enter the fragile lagoon city. 

The charge will be in place on peak weekends and other days between April and mid-July - 29 days in total.

The day-tripper fee will be in force during peak hours from 8.30 am until 4 pm, meaning visitors who come into Venice for dinner or a concert won’t have to pay.

Who has to book a ticket to visit Venice?

A host of exemptions apply to the entry fee system. 

Those who don't have to pay the day-tripper  tourist tax include residents, Venetian-born visitors, students and workers, as well as tourists who have hotel or other lodging reservations.

How can I book my ticket for Venice?

Visitors can 'reserve' their day in Venice on a dedicated platform . 

Day trippers pay €5 and get a QR code that will then be checked at spot controls at seven access points around the city, including at the main train station.

Visitors with hotel reservations enter their hotel information and also get a QR code to show. They don't have to pay, however, since their hotel bill will already include a Venice lodging fee.

How is Venice making tourism more sustainable?

After COVID-19 lockdowns devastated its tourism industry, Venice has been trying to rethink its relationship with visitors in a more sustainable way while also seeking to incentivise its residents to stay put.

The city has been forced to take action in response to the steady exodus of Venetians to the mainland. 

• Santiago de Compostela wants to introduce tourist tax to prevent ‘uncontrolled tourism’
• New tourist tax and higher transport costs: How Japan is planning to combat overtourism

After pressure from UNESCO and environmentalists, authorities have finally banned big cruise ships from sailing past St Mark’s Square and through the Giudecca canal.

Venice has been pointing to longer-term tourists as key to its survival since they tend to spend more. 

Brugnaro said in no way does the new day-tripper contribution discourage tourism overall, but just seeks to manage it better. 

He acknowledged the visitor program will probably have glitches and will need to be amended. But he said that after years of study and talk, it was time to roll it out.

Not all residents , however, are persuaded of the efficacy of the new system in dissuading mass tourism, and say more attention needs to be paid to boosting the resident population and services they need.

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Katy Hessel's expert guide to the 2024 Venice Biennale

T he Venice Biennale is the art world Olympics. It has taken place every other year since 1895, and sees nations compete for the top Golden Lion Prize with artists ‘representing’ their countries through pavilion-based art installations and exhibitions. Mostly spread out over two sites (the Giardini and Arsenale), there’s also a central international exhibition curated by an individual. This year, it’s Adriano Pedrosa with Foreigners Everywhere .

A phrase derived from the political activist collective, Claire Fontaine – who fight racism and xenophobia – Foreigners Everywhere raises questions such as, what constitutes a foreigner? Are we foreigners in our own country; when we travel abroad (pertinent for the tourist city of Venice); or to our governing establishments? This is made all the more poignant as Pedrosa is the first curator (in 60 Venice Biennales) based in the Global South. Unlike previous years, he’s brought together lesser-known names of all backgrounds, from Indigenous collectives to self-taught artists guided by spiritual visions.

At the Giardini – the façade of which is coated in a luminous and joyous mural by MAHKU – my favourites include a spectacular and vast drawing by Madge Gill (1882–1961), featuring flurries of female figures. I also loved seeing the dizzyingly passionate drawings by the Swiss artist Aloïse Corbaz (1886–1964) of herself and a lover enrobed in royal dress. Corbaz, who dreamt of being an opera singer, was diagnosed with schizophrenia and spent much of her life on a psychiatric ward. She was encouraged to turn to art by doctors.

There is a beautiful room of abstract paintings featuring Lebanese-born artists, Huguette Caland and Etel Adnan, alongside some new names for me: Nena Saguil and Ione Saldanha (whose colourful, bamboo-like structures punctuate the room), and hanging textiles by Monika Correa and Olga de Amaral.

While you’re in the Giardini, don’t miss the national pavilions. My top pick is Kapwani Kiwanga for Canada. Her sublime installation features over 7 million glass beads from Murano – an island off Venice – of all different colours, strung together to tell a multitude of stories, from trade (as the beads were used as currency for gold) to the history of Venice, globalisation to the power of communal making. It showed me how a tiny single object, like a bead, can tell a macro story on a micro level.

Let’s head to the Arsenale. Highlights here include vibrant textiles by Claudia Alarcón, from the Wichí La Puntana community in Salta, Argentina, and other members from the Silät community; wondrous and meticulously woven drawings of plant forms by Anna Zemánková; ceramic animals by Julia Isídrez; and dyed cloth-based collages by Nour Jaouda that tell poignant stories of war. I found Jaouda’s title Silent Dust particularly moving.

But I was most impressed by the multi-layered – in every sense of the word – installation inspired by Lina Bo Bardi. The great Italian-born architect spent most of her life designing the Brutalist buildings of São Paulo, including the city’s modern art museum (MASP), where she configured a new way of hanging pictures: in rows with each work set against its own glass panel, so the backs of works are visible. Pedrosa has recreated this, but has featured exclusively Italian artists who fled elsewhere, such as Tina Modotti and Anna Maria Maiolino.

The Biennale doesn’t end there. Off-site, there is an exhibition at Palazzo Grassi by the Ethiopian-born, American painting maestro, Julie Mehretu, whose masterpieces feature heavily-layered, map-like forms. Up-close, you’ll see pockets of motifs, symbols, and lines, but stand back and it’s as though they disintegrate like dust. Sarah Sze at Victoria Miro Venice is a must with her complex video installation that explores how we consume images today. As is Shahzia Sikander at the Gothic Palazzo Sorano Van Axel; her spiritual sculptures and works play on traditional styles from Pakistan.

A favourite aspect of Venice is that artists also exhibit in splendorous churches. Don’t miss Berlinde De Bruyckere in the 16th century Abbazia di San Giorgio Maggiore, where her monumental ‘Arcangeli’ wax sculptures tower above the beautifully historic architecture. The Asian Art Initiative of the Guggenheim Museum has presented an exhibition of Chinese artist, Yu Hong, in the Chiesetta della Misericordia, featuring a cycle of Baroque-inspired, gold-based paintings depicting birth, life, and death.

Further pavilions are dotted about. Nigeria, curated by Aindrea Emelife, brings together a multitude of artists, such as Precious Okoyomon and the New-York based Toyin Ojih Odutola, whose dazzling pastel portraits remain a highlight. I was also taken by Poet Lemn Sissay’s curation of Ethiopia, featuring kaleidoscopic figurative works by Tesfaye Urgessa.

Finally, don’t forget to eat pasta and drink a spritz. I recommend the garden of Antica Locanda Montin in Dorsoduro for lunch; Alle Testiere for dinner; and the roof of the Hotel Vivaldi for a sundowner.

Pay to enter: Venice becomes the first city to implement a tourist ticket system

Venice became the first city in the world on Thursday to introduce a payment system for visitors in an experiment aimed at dissuading tourists from arriving during peak periods.

However, it isn't the only place in Italy that has recently introduced new measures aimed at slowing tourist flows.

Here are some of the initiatives currently in force.

Venice tourist tax

The lagoon city has introduced 5 euros (about $5.35) tickets for day trippers, valid from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. The experiment came into force on April 25, a national holiday in Italy. Tickets will be needed for the following 10 days and thereafter for most weekends until mid-July.

Venice residents, students, workers, and homeowners are exempt from paying or booking a slot. Visitors aged under 14 and tourists with hotel reservations will need to register, but access for them will be free of charge.

Other cities, such as Como, have said they are considering introducing a similar measure but are waiting to see how the Venice initiative works before deciding.

In addition, Venice has said that from June, it will limit the size of tourist groups to 25 people and ban the use of loudspeakers by tour guides.

Florence tourist measure

Florence announced in October that it was banning new short-term residential lets on platforms such as Airbnb in its historic center. It also offered three years of tax breaks to landlords of short-term holiday lets who start offering ordinary leases for residents.

The city's famous museum, the Uffizi, offers discounts to people who arrive before 8.55 a.m. and lower prices off-season. To spread out crowds, it also closes at 10 p.m. once a week.

Cinque Terrer overtourism

The five villages that make up the Cinque Terre on the Italian Riviera regularly get swamped with visitors.

To try to reduce the overcrowding at peak periods, the authority which oversees the area said this week it would charge visitors 15 euros (about $16) to walk the most celebrated coastal path. In addition, the path can only be walked in one direction.

Capri tourism measure

The picturesque small island that lies across the bay from the southern city of Naples has doubled its entry fee, which is automatically added to ferry tickets, to 5 euros. The fee will be charged from April 1 to October 1.

Capri, Ischia, Procida, Lampedusa and Linosa changes

These islands have introduced limits, or outright bans, on cars for non-residents during the main tourist season.

Venice implements new access fees for day-trippers: What to know about the new system

The waterfront city is popular for Piazza San Marco, canals and bridges.

Peak summer travel season is fast approaching, and some cities abroad have already implemented fees in an attempt to protect popular destinations from potential damage from increased tourism.

Bustling European cities from Barcelona to Amsterdam that get flooded with tourists, especially at historical hotspots during the high season, have used tourist taxes to help raise revenue without taxing local citizens.

Now, the city of bridges is following in the footsteps of Spain, Greece and Germany, which have all utilized a similar fee-based approach, testing a new entry fee for any visitors who come to Venice just for the day.

Earlier this year, the coastal city, known for it's lagoon, hand-blown glass and close proximity to the heart of Italy's popular Prosecco region, announced a new reservation system that would charge day trippers 5 euros to enter and enjoy Venice.

With nearly 40,000 visitors on average per day -- nearly double the city's population -- local authorities hope this move will help protect the UNESCO World Heritage Site from the influx of tourists.

Starting Thursday, travelers can download an app to pay and attain a QR code, which will be checked by inspectors to enter the city as a visitor. If someone traveling for the day in Venice is caught without the code, they may face a fine of up to 300 euros.

"It is not a revolution, but the first step of a path that regulates the access of daily visitors. An experiment that aims to improve the liveability of the city, who lives there and who works there. We will carry it forward with great humility and with the awareness that there may be problems," Venice Mayor Luigi Brugnaro said in a statement on X regarding the announcement.

"The margins of error are wide, but we are ready, with humility and courage, to make all the changes that will serve to improve the procedure. Venice is the first city in the world to implement this path, which can be an example for other fragile and delicate cities that must be safeguarded," he continued.

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Simone Venturini, Venice city councilor for tourism, told ABC News that the smart control center is within the most important part of the city -- Piazza San Marco, or St. Mark's Square.

"Authorities will use the new QR codes, plus cell phone data and the roughly 700 cameras around Venice to track and potentially regulate visitors," he explained. "We are switching to action after 60 years of only debate... our ultimate goal is to find a new balance between the needs of the residents and the needs of tourists."

Venturini told ABC News local officials had "a lot of discussion" with leaders in other cities who have worked to combat overtourism, including Amsterdam, Barcelona and Kyoto.

"We are talking together just to find the solution," he said.

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