Venice - Discovering Italy

Travelling to Venice

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Venice, a pretty good destination in Italy (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Venice and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Venice, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Italy, here's everything to know about Venice for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Venice

Venice is a beautiful city located in northeastern Italy and is the capital of the Veneto region. It is built on more than 100 small islands separated by canals and connected by bridges. The city is known for its stunning architecture, art, history, canals, and gondolas. Venice is also famous for its carnival, where people dress up in traditional Venetian masks and costumes. It is a popular tourist destination and attracts millions of visitors every year. Some of the must-see attractions include St. Mark's Square and Basilica, the Doge's Palace, the Rialto Bridge, and the Grand Canal.

What to visit in Venice

Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Venice: 1. St. Mark's Basilica: This beautiful cathedral is the most famous church in Venice and an outstanding example of Byzantine architecture. It is located at the eastern end of Piazza San Marco.
2. Doge's Palace: Also located in Piazza San Marco, the Doge's Palace was the center of Venetian politics and power for centuries. Now it's a museum and open to visitors.
3. Grand Canal: This main waterway runs through the heart of Venice, flanked by stunning palaces, and crossed by picturesque bridges like the famous Rialto Bridge.
4. Piazza San Marco: As the main public square in Venice, Piazza San Marco also has many of the city's most famous buildings like St. Mark's Basilica, the Doge's Palace, and Torre dell'Orologio (the Clock Tower).
5. Rialto Market: If you want to experience the real spirit of Venice, head to Rialto Market, where local traders buy and sell fresh seafood, fruits, vegetables, and spices.
6. Venice Lido: This thin strip of land is home to some of the city's best beaches, outdoor pools, and a splendid view of the Adriatic Sea.
7. Gallerie dell'Accademia: Art lovers won't want to miss the Accademia, which houses an incredible collection of Venetian art from the 14th- 20th centuries.
8. Murano: A must-visit for fans of glasswork, Murano is a nearby island known for its glassblowing artisans and museum.
9. Burano: Often referred to as Venice's most colorful island, Burano is famous for its unique character homes, intricate lace-makings, and traditional seafood dishes.
10. Santa Maria della Salute: Perched at the entrance to the Grand Canal, this magnificent baroque church was built in honor of the Virgin Mary and offers breathtaking views of the canal.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Italy, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Venice.

When to go on holiday to Venice

The best time to visit Venice is from mid-September to November or from April to early June. During these months, the weather is mild, the crowds are smaller, and the prices are lower. In the peak summer months of July and August, the city can be hot and overcrowded, and prices soar. However, if you plan to attend the famous Venice Carnival in February or March, you should visit during those months.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Venice

You have a few options to get to Venice, Italy: 1. By Airplane: The closest international airport to Venice is the Marco Polo Airport (VCE). From there, you can either take a bus or a water taxi to get to the city center.
2. By Train: Venice has a major train station, Santa Lucia Station, which is located in the heart of the city. You can take a train from other major Italian cities or even from other European cities.
3. By Bus: There are several bus companies that connect Venice to other major cities in Italy and Europe.
4. By Car: If you plan to drive to Venice, you can take the A4 highway, which goes from Milan to Venice. However, keep in mind that driving in Venice can be difficult due to the narrow streets and water canals. It is recommended to park your car outside the city center and take a taxi or public transportation to get around.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Venice, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Venice

Here are some typical foods in Venice, Italy: 1. Sarde in Saor - A dish consisting of sardines marinated in a sweet and sour sauce made from onions, vinegar, and raisins. It is usually served cold as an appetizer or a snack.
2. Risi e Bisi - A traditional Venetian dish made with rice and fresh peas. It is a creamy and delicious risotto-like dish and is often enjoyed during the spring.
3. Fritto Misto - A mixed seafood dish that typically consists of battered and fried fish, shrimp, calamari, and vegetables such as zucchini and eggplant. It is a popular street food in Venice and is usually served in paper cones.
4. Bigoli in Salsa - A pasta dish made with thick spaghetti-like noodles called bigoli and a savory sauce made with sardines, onions, and anchovies. It is a hearty and flavorful dish that is a favorite among locals.
5. Tiramisu - A classic Italian dessert that originated in Venice. It is made with layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone cheese, and cocoa powder. It is an indulgent and delicious dessert that is often enjoyed after a meal.
You can find general info about typical foods in Italy here.

Is Venice an expensive destination for tourists?

Venice can be an expensive destination for tourists due to the high demand for accommodations, food, and tourist attractions. Prices vary depending on the season you visit, with peak seasons such as summer and Carnival period being the most expensive. However, you can still find affordable accommodation options and restaurants that offer reasonably priced traditional Venetian food. To save money, you can consider visiting outside of peak season, using public transportation instead of taxis, and exploring free attractions such as St. Mark's Square and Rialto Bridge.

Where to find accomodation in Venice

It is best to find accommodation in Venice itself so that you can immerse yourself in the beautiful city and its famous canals without the need for additional travel. However, if you prefer to stay on the mainland, the areas of Mestre and Marghera are convenient, as they have easy access to the city by train or bus. Additionally, the Lido di Venezia is a popular island just off the coast of Venice with many hotels and resorts offering stunning views of the city across the lagoon.
You can check hotel prices at Venice here:
Booking.com

Is Venice a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Venice is generally a very safe place for tourists. The city is well-patrolled by police, and there are very low levels of violent or petty crime. However, like any popular tourist destination, visitors should still take some basic precautions to ensure their safety, such as keeping a close eye on their belongings in crowded areas, avoiding isolated areas at night, and being aware of common tourist scams. Additionally, the city may experience some occasional flooding during high tide season, so it's important to monitor weather and water level forecasts and plan accordingly.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Italy here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Venice.

What type of travelers will enjoy Venice the most?

Venice is a destination that attracts a diverse group of travelers. However, it is often associated with romance and is a popular destination for couples. The city's romantic atmosphere, charming canals, and picturesque streets make it a favorite for honeymooners and those celebrating special occasions. Young people looking for fun will also find plenty of activities to enjoy such as exploring the city's nightlife.
That being said, Venice can be a great destination for families as well. Children will love taking a gondola ride, visiting the colorful islands of Murano and Burano, and exploring the city's many galleries and museums. Families can also enjoy guided tours of the city and participate in cultural events.
Ultimately, Venice offers something for everyone and can be a great destination for all types of travelers.

How to get around Venice

The most common and traditional form of transportation in Venice is walking. However, you can also use water buses called vaporetti, water taxis or gondolas to move around the canals.

What to see around Venice

Sure, here are some beautiful places you can visit on a day trip from Venice, Italy: 1. Verona - A charming city with a rich history and romantic architecture.
2. Treviso - A picturesque town with beautiful canals and stunning gardens.
3. Padua - A university town with a rich cultural heritage, famous for its stunning frescoes.
4. Vicenza - A UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning architecture, particularly its beautiful villas.
5. Bassano del Grappa - A historic town famous for its liquor and beautiful wooden bridge.
6. Murano - An island known for its glass art and factories, located just a short boat ride from Venice.
7. Burano - A colorful island famous for its lacework and charming canals.
All of these destinations can be reached within one to two hours by train or bus from Venice.
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