Venice, with its winding canals and timeless beauty, is a city of hidden gems and unforgettable moments waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re searching for unique things to do in Venice, the best food in Venice, or valuable insights about the city, read on to make the most of your visit.
Venice’s accessibility is a pleasant surprise for travelers. From the Venice airport to the train station, navigating the city is a breeze. Customs procedures are usually swift, allowing you to start your adventure with ease. Consider pre-arranging a private driver and water taxi to transport you to your hotel for a luxurious introduction to Venice’s unique charm via its picturesque waterways.
Another intriguing fact about Venice is the tradition of "acqua alta," which translates to "high water." Venice experiences periodic flooding, especially during the winter months when tides rise. To combat this, the city has developed a fascinating system of elevated walkways called "passerelle" that are placed throughout the city during high tide events. These temporary pathways allow residents and visitors to navigate the flooded streets without getting their feet wet. It's a testament to Venice's adaptability and resilience in the face of its unique environmental challenges.
Venice is a city filled with hidden treasures waiting to be unearthed. Skip the crowded Grand Canal bridge and opt for a leisurely stroll through palace gardens to enjoy a quieter moment. Don’t miss iconic landmarks like the Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Square. To avoid long lines, prebook your tickets with skip-the-line access for a seamless experience.
A valuable pro travel tip for visiting Venice is to explore the city early in the morning or late in the evening. Venice is known for its enchanting but crowded streets during the daytime, especially in popular tourist areas. By venturing out during quieter hours, you'll have a chance to savor the city's true charm without the hustle and bustle. You can enjoy leisurely walks along picturesque canals, discover hidden gems, and capture stunning photos of iconic landmarks in a more serene atmosphere. Plus, you'll often find local cafes and restaurants less crowded, allowing you to savor authentic Venetian cuisine with a sense of tranquility.
Venice’s culinary scene is a delight for food lovers. Whether you’re seeking the best food in Venice or budget-friendly dining options, the city has it all. Venture beyond expensive restaurants and explore charming local eateries like Caffe Internationals for delectable meals at reasonable prices. While service in Venice can be casual, rest assured that the quality of the food makes it all worthwhile.
This restaurant was our first stop in Venice, conveniently located in a square near the hotel. We indulged in a second breakfast here - they had healthy serving sizes and a nice variety of food options and always seemed to be popular without being overcrowded.
Pro tip: Don't forget to take pictures or make note of where you eat! Since we were entirely winging the trip, we of course had no dinner plans.... After wandering by a not too busy spot in a nice open square with outdoor seating not once but twice and a quick review of their expansive menu we deemed it was the place for us! I wouldn't call the spot little, but it certainly can't be found on google - not when we were standing there next to it or now as I struggle to recall the name!
If you're craving a pastry for breakfast, you'll never have to go far in Venice! I highly recommend Pasticceria Tonolo for quick counter service for delicious pastries and coffee - you can eat at the counter but I suggest saving this spot for food and drinks for the road as they don't have a dining area
I'm usually a skeptic of busy restaurants near destination highlights (in this case, St Mark's) but this restaurant was a great find! For one, their Aperol Spritz's were delicious AND cheap, and they followed that up with a very extensive and tasty menu! The posted menu looked great - the actual menu had almost twice as many items on it! Great for anyone traveling with a picky eater or simply a large group with a lot of different taste palettes!
Shopping enthusiasts will find Venice a paradise, especially if you’re on the hunt for quality handbags. As you wander, you’ll catch the enticing scent of leather wafting from boutique shops. Keep your eyes peeled for cute outfits displayed in windows; if something catches your eye, don’t hesitate to stop in, as finding these hidden gems again amidst Venice’s labyrinthine streets can be quite the challenge.
Wander Murano. No tour guide, no google maps, no advance planning. Just wander the streets and see what unique glass blowing and experiences you happen upon!
For those seeking unique things to do in Venice, consider a day trip to Murano to witness artisans crafting exquisite glass designs. Skip organized tours and explore the island at your own pace. Spot local glass shops where craftsmen create custom pieces, offering an authentic and up-close experience. While the public ferry is budget-friendly, arrange a private water taxi for a more intimate journey.