Venice, Italy: A Guide to the Floating City - Where to stay, what to do and more

Venice, known as "La Serenissima," the Floating City, or the City of Canals, is a city like no other. With its labyrinth of canals, stunning architecture, and rich history, Venice offers a plethora of experiences for every traveler. If you plan to visit this beautiful city, these are some tips to make the most of your visit.

1. Take a Gondola Ride

No visit to Venice is complete without a gondola ride. Gliding through the serene canals, you’ll experience the city from a unique perspective. While it can be a bit pricey, the romance and charm of the ride are well worth it.Here’s the gondola ride I took (it was part of a walking tour): https://trip.tp.st/NfUO3O1X

2. Visit St. Mark's Basilica

St. Mark's Basilica is a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture and a symbol of Venice. Its stunning mosaics and intricate design are breathtaking. Be sure to climb to the balcony for a panoramic view of St. Mark's Square.

I would recommend going for some guided tours to learn more about the history of Venice and what is happening to it today. Here’s the tour I took: https://www.viator.com/en-GB/tours/Venice/Venice-Skip-the-Line-Doges-Palace-and-St-Marks-Basilica-Tours-plus-Venice-Walking-Tour/d522-2635DOGESMARKPALA

3. Explore the Doge's Palace

Adjacent to St. Mark's Basilica, the Doge's Palace is a must-see for history enthusiasts. This Gothic masterpiece was the residence of the Doge of Venice and is filled with art and history. Don’t miss the Bridge of Sighs, which connects the palace to the prison.Here’s the tour I took: https://www.viator.com/en-GB/tours/Venice/Venice-Skip-the-Line-Doges-Palace-and-St-Marks-Basilica-Tours-plus-Venice-Walking-Tour/d522-2635DOGESMARKPALA

4. Take a Vaporetto Ride on the Grand Canal

The Grand Canal is the main waterway of Venice, lined with beautiful palaces and historic buildings. Taking a Vaporetto (water bus) ride is an affordable way to see the city from the water and experience the hustle and bustle of Venetian life.

5. Visit the Shops

Venice has tons of local brands worth taking a look at - from leather goods to handcrafted glass pieces to decorate your home with. My personal favourites are the booths by the Grand Canal near St. Mark’s Square selling watercolour paintings. They have cute charming paintings the size of a postcard to big beautiful ones the size of a television. I bought two.

Where to stay

We stayed at the Rosa Salva Hotel near San Marco, right above the famous bakery Rosa Salva known for its pastries. The bakery has another outlet in San Salvador. Their sandwiches and pastries were heavenly.

Another option would be to stay outside Venice, perhaps Verona and take a day trip to the city of canals from there.

Other must-sees:

We did not have the time to visit these places but I would love to explore them the next time we visit!

1. Wander Through the Rialto Market

The Rialto Market is the heart of Venice's culinary scene. Here, you can find fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies. Strolling through the market is a sensory delight and offers a glimpse into the daily life of Venetians.

2. Visit the Peggy Guggenheim Collection

For art lovers, the Peggy Guggenheim Collection is a treasure trove of modern art. Housed in the former home of the American art collector, the museum features works by Picasso, Pollock, and Dalí, among others.

3. Explore the Islands of Murano and Burano

Take a day trip to the nearby islands of Murano and Burano. Murano is famous for its glass-making tradition, while Burano is known for its colorful houses and lace-making. Both islands offer a charming escape from the bustling city.

4. Enjoy Authentic Venetian Cuisine

Indulge in local culinary delights such as cicchetti (Venetian tapas), risotto al nero di seppia (squid ink risotto), and tiramisu. Be sure to dine at a traditional trattoria for an authentic experience.

5. Visit the Accademia Gallery

The Accademia Gallery houses the most important collection of Venetian paintings, including works by Titian, Tintoretto, and Veronese. Art aficionados will appreciate the depth and history of the pieces on display.

6. Experience the Carnival of Venice (if timing allows)

If you are visiting in February, don’t miss the Carnival of Venice, a spectacular festival known for its elaborate masks and costumes. The atmosphere is festive, and you can participate in various events and parades throughout the city.

Conclusion

Venice is a city that captivates the heart and soul of every visitor. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture, there’s no shortage of things to do and see. Whether you’re wandering the narrow streets, enjoying a gondola ride, or savoring local cuisine, Venice promises an unforgettable experience. Our only regret was that we didn’t have more time there.