Top 10 Things To Do in Venice

Top 10 Things to Do in Venice | Italy Travel Guide
http://www.italylogue.com/featured-articles/top-10-things-to-do-i...
Italy
Accommodation in Italy Hotels Hostels Agriturismo Vacation Rentals Villas Camping Airfare to Italy Airfare to Milan Airfare to Rome Airfare to Venice Airfare to Sicily Airfare to Tuscany Airfare to Naples Information Tourism in Italy Airports in Italy Maps of Italy Italian History Photos of Italy Getting Married in Italy Real Estate in Italy Favorite Italy Blogs Guest Post Guidelines WhyGo Italy Endorsements Travel Guide Italy Travel Deals Weather in Italy Regions of Italy Cities in Italy Transportation in Italy Italian Food Italian Language Travel Insurance Italy Travel Tips What to Do in Italy Vacations in Italy Holidays & Festivals in Italy Soccer Games in Italy Italian Vineyards Italy Tours Italy Tourist Attractions Italy Travel Packages Shopping in Italy
1 of 28
10/24/2012 1:09 AM

Beaches in Italy Italy Train Travel Italy Rail Pass Italy Train Schedule Train Tickets WhyGo Amsterdam Australia Bali Canada Chicago France Greece Hawaii Iceland Italy Las Vegas London Paris Portland Spain Thailand WhyGo Italy Featured Articles Top 10 Things to Do in Venice
Top 10 Things to Do in Venice

by Jessica on December 29, 2011
by Jessica | December 29th, 2011
Tweet
62
Like
1k
Send
10
Map
Search Maps, Get Driving Directions Instantly with Free App!
www.MapsGalaxy.com
If you were to ask the Venice tourism office what there is to see and do in the city, youd likely be given a long list of must-see sights and attractions but only a fraction of those are actually what most people would consider must-see. You want to know what the real top sights in Venice are so that you dont miss anything especially if you only have a short time to spend in the city but you dont want to be tricked into paying a hefty admission fee for some tourist trap.
2 of 28
10/24/2012 1:09 AM
So here are my recommendations for the Top 10 Things to Do in Venice . Ive listed them in descending order from the one I think is most critical, so if youre on a really tight schedule you can check them off from the top down and get as far as you can. And if you think Ive missed something important here, or that Ive got them in the wrong order, I welcome your input. Its still a list of my recommendations, so I cant guarantee Ill agree with you, but I do welcome your input nonetheless! >> Wanna know whats fabulous? You can do all of these things in (and more) in my suggested 2-day itinerary in Venice .
Top 10 Things to Do in Venice (According to Jessica)
1.
There is nothing, I repeat nothing, that is as important when youre visiting Venice than just wandering aimlessly through its streets and alleys. If you only had 3-4 hours in the city, Id recommend that you do this before you set foot inside a single museum or attraction its that critical to enjoying your visit. By wandering (especially if you point yourself in the exact opposite of the direction where the herd is going) you can find Venices many charming and often-empty squares and streets, which goes a long way toward helping you appreciate the city. Id almost say you could ignore basically everything else on this list and just stroll around without a map But although I might not go that far (again, unless youve only got 4 hours or less), I do consider the sentence get lost in Venice an order, not a suggestion.
Get Lost in Venice
2.
I love visiting churches in Italy, but this is by far my favorite church in the country. Its beautiful outside, with its big onion domes and multi-colored marble pillars, and the interior is floor-to-ceiling mosaics. Theres no fee to tour the main part of the basilica, and even booking an entry time online (so you dont have to wait in the sometimes-long line out front) is free, so after youve wandered the city this should be your next stop. There are three smaller museums within the basilica which youll have to pay an entry to see; your budget and overall interest should dictate whether you visit all of them, but if youre just going to pick one then by all means take the narrow and steep staircase in the entry alcove up to the museum that has the original horses which used to overlook the square in addition to seeing the horses, youll also get to go out on the roof and overlook the square yourself.
Visit St. Marks Basilica
3.
See St. Marks Square When its Empty I know in #1 I said that you should point yourself in the opposite direction to where all the tourists are going, and since 99.9% of them are headed for St. Marks Square you may find it a little surprising to find this piazza so high on my to-do list in Venice. But the
3 of 28
10/24/2012 1:09 AM
key here is to visit the square when everyone else isnt there. Of course, in order to do this youll probably need to spend at least one night in Venice, but I can think of worse things to need to do. The best times to catch St. Marks Square at her most vulnerable are early morning and late evening, before the day-trippers arrive or after theyve left. Venice isnt a nightlife town, so it doesnt take long after the restaurants close for the square to be emptied of much of the crowd. Personally, I like it best at night, but Ill leave the choice to you.
4.
Take the #1 Vaporetto for a Grand Canal Tour I think the easiest and most pleasant way to get around Venice is on foot, but the Grand Canal only has a few bridge crossings and taking a ride on Venices water-buses is a fun transport method. Even beyond the practical reasons for taking a vaporetto, however, theres the fact that the slow #1 vaporetto that runs the length of the Grand Canal is the ideal equivalent to a city bus tour. Id recommend either bringing along a self-guided tour (Rick Steves has a good one in his guidebook) so you can pick out the sights along the way, or just sitting back and enjoying the view no matter what the significance of the buildings is. Youll enjoy the ride either way, even more so if youve got a good seat and some gelato.
5.
Watch a Glass-Blowing Demonstration on Murano Island This is kind of a tricky one, because so many of the glass-blowing demonstrations on nearby Murano Island are very tourist-trappy, but I have it on this list for a couple of reasons. First, most people I know have never seen anyone do glass blowing or glass sculpture, so its entertaining and educational even if it is touristy. Second, visiting another island in the Venice lagoon is a great idea during your stay, and since Murano is closest its the easiest one to visit (especially if youre short on time). If you want to avoid the overly touristy glass demonstrations, catch a vaporetto to Murano (instead of a boat booked by your hotel or a particular glass shop) and walk around the streets until you find a studio that looks relatively open. There are more glass-blowing studios on Murano than just the touristy ones.
6.
Tour the Doges Palace Right next (and partly connected) to St. Marks Basilica, the Doges Palace is arguably the second most important attraction in Venice after the basilica (if you dont count the city itself as an attraction). While there are several good reasons to pay the hefty admission fee to tour the Doges Palace (Palazzo Ducale in Italian), probably the most popular stop on the tour is when you get to walk over the famous Bridge of Sighs. You can see the bridge from the outside without buying an entry ticket, but the only wa to walk on the bridge yourself is as part of a Doges Palace tour.
4 of 28
10/24/2012 1:09 AM
7.
Take the Elevator to the Top of the Campanile While you can get a great view of St. Marks Square from the roof of St. Marks Basilica, you cant get a great view of the churchs roof when standing on it. For a view that includes both the basilica and the piazza, buy a ticket for the short elevator ride to the top of the Campanile, or bell-tower, thats in front of the church. The views are great, and you get an up-close-and-personal look at the big bells that youll hear ringing out the time all over the city. If you want to avoid getting your ears blown off, Id advise making the trip to the top of the tower at something other than the hour mark.
8.
Wander the Streets of Burano Island With a little extra time in Venice, after your visit to Murano take a vaporetto further into the lagoon for a trip to Burano Island. In general, the further you get into the lagoon from the core Venetian islands, the less crowded they get Burano is usually less crowded than Murano, for instance. And with its almost cartoon-like brightly colored buildings, it makes the perfect backdrop for a stroll. Seriously, the colors are so brilliant and cheerful, I defy you to walk around Burano for even a half-hour and not have a smile on your face. Go ahead, try it.
9.
Take a Hike on Torcello Island Got even more time? Even more sick of the crowds in Venice? Then get back on the boat and take the trip to my favorite of the lagoons islands Torcello. Its a short trip from Burano, but can take up to an hour if you go straight to Torcello from Venice. Either way, its the ideal spot if youre in the mood for less structure and more nature. Most of Torcello is a nature reserve, and while you cant actually go hiking out in the fields, you can certainly get away from the tourist hordes and enjoy the tranquil view. There are roughly 20 people who still live on the island, and theres only one (super expensive) hotel, although there are a few places to eat. The main sight, which I happen to just adore, is a 7th century church on the island with more exceptional mosaics (a must if you liked St. Marks).
5 of 28
10/24/2012 1:09 AM
10.
Window Shop at the Rialto Market If youre not a foodie, this may not be something youd put in your top 10 Venice experiences But I love food, and I love food markets. In Venice particularly, I think a food market is as culturally interesting as it is food-related. After all, this network of islands isnt exactly teeming with vegetable gardens or grocery stores (not sure if you noticed, but theres a lot more water than earth going on here). So visiting the famous Rialto market is a great way to see how real Venetians get their food supplies. All the locals shop here, from restaurateurs to ordinary folk just stocking their kitchens. The Rialto market is particularly known as a fish market, but theres plenty of fresh veggies and fruit for sale as well. If youre doing more than just browsing, remember that you dont handle the merchandise until after youve paid for it point at what you want and the vendor will choose and bag it for you. (As a bonus, its within sight of the Rialto Bridge, which is certainly worth a little bit of space on your cameras memory card.)
You may have noticed that going for a gondola ride in Venice isnt on my list. I know that for many people its one of those things that they feel like they have to do in Venice or theyll feel like they havent been to Venice. I may be in the minority on this one, but I feel like ride in my top 10, its not on my Venice to-do list at all. >> Find out more about what to do in Venice >> Be sure to read my 5 best Venice travel tips, too. gondola rides are way overpriced, and not nearly the quiet/romantic experience you might expect them to be. So not only isnt a gondola
original photos, top to bottom, by: Janrito Karamazov, penner42, mookiefl, sharedferret, VaakOpStap, Mr Gs Travels, Eustaquio Santimano, flappingwings, dachalan, Argenberg, and rfarmer
Other articles about Venice
2-Week Italy Itinerary: Romantic Italy Top 10 Things to Do in Venice How to Get from Venice to Pisa (& vice versa) Jewish Ghetto in Venice: A Photo Tour Romantic Venice in Daylight [Video] 3-Week Italy Itinerary: Italys Greatest Hits Venice Hotel Tax: What it Costs & How to Avoid It Hotels in Italy Where Movies Were Filmed Italy 1-Week Itinerary: Venice, Florence, Rome, Pompeii Italy 1-Week Itinerary: Venice, Ligurian Coast, Florence, Rome
You might like:
Two Websites to Make Your Venice Visit Easier
Gondola Rides in Venice: Current Fares & Booking in Advance
DOs and DONTs in Italy
Doges Palace in Venice
5 Essential Venice Survival Tips

[?]
6 of 28
10/24/2012 1:09 AM
Today's Travel Deals

$569* & up -- Europe Fall Fare Sale,
Roundtrip incl. Tax w/Air, $300 Off*
10/23/12
$1699 -- 9-Night Tour of Beijing & Tokyo
$590 & up -- Cancun 3-Night All-Incl.

Escapes w/Air & Taxes*
$119 & up -- Nassau 4-Star Beachfront

Resort, 45% Off
$125-$129 -- Washington, D.C. 4-Star

Hotel, Save 45%
Listed by . *Some taxes, fees additional
$143 & up -- 4- & 5-Star Vegas Resorts

on The Strip, 35% Off
Flights from 20
Special Limited Offer Only until 31 Oct. Hurry, Book Now & Save!
eDreams.com/Flight_Offers
Tags: Featured Articles, italy itinerary, Things to Do, things to do in venice, top 10, venice, venice-guide Top 10 Things to Do in Rome | Home | Top 10 Things to Do in Florence
Like Send 1,096 people like this. Be the first of your friends. Tweet 62 10
PRINT
{ 72 comments read them below or add one }
Ren Seindal January 26, 2009 at 9:15 am
I would go kayaking
Reply
Fv June 23, 2012 at 3:46 pm
As requested
Reply
Jessica January 26, 2009 at 9:21 am
Great article! I especially agree with getting lost and seeing Piazza San Marco at night. If you have to get lost anywhere, Id suggest my favorite neighborhoods, which are Canareggio, Dorsoduro, and a spin on the Giudecca. A few things I would add to my list would be a visit to the Frari church and Scuola di San Rocco to see the great masters Titian and Tintoretto and at least one experience at a wine bar to sip on some wine and snack on cicchetti.
Reply
Great suggestions, Jessica! And Rene, I would expect nothing less from you than a kayaking suggestion.
Perhaps after I take you
7 of 28
10/24/2012 1:09 AM
up on your offer to go kayaking in Venice Ill have to revise my list!
Reply
Eva January 26, 2009 at 3:52 pm
Yes, Yes, YES! I love this list. I missed out on #6 and #7 (the result of being cheap and scared of heights, respectively) but managed all the rest. Youve absolutely nailed Venice with #1, and I loved my day trip to the other islands! For people who want a bit of structure to their wandering, I used the Chorus Pass (5 euros if you have a Rolling Venice pass already) to get me out and wandering aimlessly in all the different neighbourhoods. It grants admission to 16 (16!) churches, and I know not everyones as big a church nerd as I am, but hunting for the various spots, in obscure parts of the city, was absolutely wonderful.
Reply
Im terrified of heights, Eva, but I liked the trip to the top of the Campanile. I didnt go up to the edge, but the view is still pretty incredible. And thats a great tip about the Chorus pass, I need to write about that soon
Reply
rosaria January 28, 2009 at 3:19 pm
Great article. I would suggest that someone do a list of sights for senior travelers, for people who cant navigate stairs and difficult terrain. I like the idea of skipping gondola rides. One can find all the romance one needs just by walking along the Grand Canal.
Reply
David January 30, 2009 at 3:47 pm
Find house number 1 and house number 2009 (i.e. the year you visit). This is an advanced form of getting lost/wandering. My favourite part of Venice, however, was the embassy buildings sitting in the forest at the western end. Spooky!
Reply
Jessica January 30, 2009 at 4:00 pm
8 of 28
10/24/2012 1:09 AM
David, thats a really fun idea! Ill have to try that next time Im there. You could also add finding the house of the year you were born, got married, etc. What a fun game!
Reply
Bob January 31, 2009 at 1:01 am
Just back from a week in Venice. I would recommend going off-season to avoid the heat and the crowds. A 12 hour vaparetto pass is all you need to visit the islands and a 50 cent traghetto ride across the Grand Canal is a more authentic and infinitely cheaper alternative to the gondola experience. As Jessica and others suggest, dont be afraid to wander off the beaten path. As an example, set yourself the task of finding Calle Varisco, the narrowest lane in Venice. Venice is ruinously expensive and the pound/euro rate doesnt help right now but its still possible to eat well if you are careful. My top 3 recommendations are the kosher restaurant Gam Gam near the Ponte Guglio and the Jewish Ghetto (make sure your order includes the Israeli starters and latke), La Zucca in Santa Croce (reservations essential) and Trattoria Busa alla Torre, Da Lele on Murano (open for lunch only).
Reply
Thanks for the tips, Bob! I also prefer going to Venice in the off-season, but I maintain that its possible to get away from the crowds even during the high season if you just wander enough. (This is probably infinitely more challenging during the Carnival, but thats another story!) The overall expense of Venice can be a difficult pill to swallow, however, and going in the off-season does mean youll be faced with lower prices on hotel rooms and such. So, yet another vote for avoiding the peak season!
Reply
kat July 28, 2009 at 11:59 pm
I think Ill love taking a hike at Torcello Island..;)
Reply
psykhe March 10, 2010 at 3:30 pm
Well, I live in Treviso (half an hour by train from Venice) and been more then 10 times to Venice. I agree with number 1 on your list
9 of 28
10/24/2012 1:09 AM
there is nothing like getting lost in Venice! When I go to Venice and dont get lost, I don not enjoy it so much if you get lost, there is so much there to discover, from beautiful views on the canals to small monuments, stores and so on. Anyway, I think that one should see Rialto, San Marco and Ponte dei Sospiri, even if they are extremly turistical. Also, there is nothing like spending a night in Venice. I stayed once until 5am and really enjoyed it. It was still crowded as there is a big party at Redentore (3rd Sunday of July, traditional party, focus is on Giudecca). I have also visited some islands around and I loved Burano. If you have time it is really worth visiting. I was less impressed by Torecello (it was windy and rain, maybe this ruined it a bit). The view from Campanile it is also worth it beautiful and you get the real dimension and feel of the city. I agree that gondola ride is not a must, I did not do it yet: expensive, crowded and everybody will make pics when you pass under the bridges, so deffinetly not romantic. Of course, if you are not on a low budget, in off season (if there is any) it could be nice.
Reply
chamicrac January 16, 2011 at 9:53 pm
I have just started researching our family visit (first time) to Italy in April 2011 and am very interested in all the comments on this blog especially yours. My husband is trying to track down his blood relatives in San Fior who he has never met being that he was adopted at birth to an Australian family. We would like to make a day trip to the village but we are unsure how to get there from Venice or if there is a bus service in and out of the village? I believe it is North East of Treviso..Are you familiar with the area? If not can you suggest where I may go to arrange some transport?
Reply
Im not sure this commenter is keeping track of this post, so in case you dont hear back from them you might try checking with Peter Farina of ItalyMONDO they help people find relatives/family connections in Italy, and then can help arrange visits to ancestral towns or even to meet up with relatives. You can learn more about Peters company on this episode of the Eye on Italy podcast, and you can get a discount on ItalyMONDO services just by mentioning the podcast: http://www.eyeonitaly.com/podcast/episode-24-researching-your-italian-genealogy-and-ancestry/
Reply
Amy March 17, 2010 at 6:34 am
Uhmmm . . .i just have one question for Jessica. Who are you suppose to be? Like a world traveler that figures out the top things to do where and post it for people to read? I mean dont get me wrong, this is great but its just that some people may not have the same tastes as you do. I was looking for a full list of attractions in Venice, not a top ten list from someone who I dont know and dont have the same likes and dislikes as.
10 of 28
10/24/2012 1:09 AM

Reply
Robyn January 22, 2012 at 10:59 am
Well, if you dont want to do what Jessica has said then look somewhere else where it says the top 10 things attractions where every other person is going! Lifes about exploring and doing the unexpected in my mind and Venice is perfect for this! I think shes got it pretty perfect! Also, Venice is a place of exploring, if you want All Inclusive 5* Spa with Swimming Pool then dont go to Venice!
Reply
Jessica March 17, 2010 at 9:18 am
Hi, Amy: Im not sure you actually read the top of this post, where I say that these are *my* recommendations for the top things to do in Venice, and that they wont be everyones top things to do. Im also guessing you missed the long list of other Venice-related articles linked on the menu on the right near the top of the page, and the main Venice page where youll find lots more articles Ive written about this city I dearly love: http://www.italylogue.com/venice Ciao, Jessica
Reply
Adam June 7, 2010 at 2:19 am
im planning a trip to venice, would you reccomend how long for? was thinking 4 days. will that leave me enough time to experience the best of venice?
Reply
Jessica June 7, 2010 at 7:50 am
11 of 28
10/24/2012 1:09 AM
Hi, Adam: Four days would be more than enough time, I think, to experience what I think is so magical about Venice. In my perfect itinerary for a 1st time traveler I recommend two days: http://www.italylogue.com/planning-a-trip/itinerary-for-2-days-in-venice.html/ Ciao, Jessica
Reply
Mike Hill September 21, 2010 at 1:11 pm
This site was way more informative and fun to follow and the advice would be applicable to people of any age. The recommendation on getting lost (this could also be expressed as rambling aimlessly) introduced us to some unlikely sites, that get no or little mention in any of the guide books. Basically if you wanted one place to find information and useful tips (especially about the food) upon visiting Venice, then look no further than this site.
Reply
Jessica September 23, 2010 at 9:03 am
Oh, thank you, Mike! Im glad you like my tips, and the site.
Reply
Dylan Marsh October 3, 2010 at 1:31 am
Hi Jessica, thanks for your fantastic site,probably the best recommendation site Ive read! Were hoping to go to Venice in late December for my wifes 40th birthday, can you think of anything/anywhere to go/do that would be truly special? Thanks Dylan
Reply
Jessica October 3, 2010 at 2:26 pm
Venice is, as Ive mentioned, quite crowded year-round even when its cold in December. You didnt say what your budget
12 of 28
10/24/2012 1:09 AM
was, but one thing you might consider (and youd have to book it soon) is an overnight on the island of Torcello in the Locanda Cipriani. Its a small boutique hotel run by the same family that runs the extremely posh Cipriani Hotel in Venice, and since Torcello is further out and pretty quiet even during the day it would be especially romantic at night when the day-trippers leave. Theres a very good restaurant at the hotel, too, and if you get lucky and see snow falling while youre there its even more dreamlike. http://www.locandacipriani.com/
Reply
Deb DiPreta November 3, 2010 at 7:18 am
Dear Italylogue.com As you may be aware, Tauck, the nations premiere guided travel company, has sent over 18,000 visitors to Italy during the past two years alone. Our guests continually rave about their trips and we would like to improve their online experience by providing useful resources for research and travel. Tauck.com currently receives almost 3 million visits per year. With this said, providing an outstanding travel resource has become a priority. Because we value our partnership, and share a passion for Italy travel, we would like to connect our guests with your resources via a link on our partner page http://www.tauck.com/why/travel-partners/. We believe our guests would not only benefit from a local perspective, but appreciate the additional detail unavailable to them otherwise. In addition, as strong supporters of Italy and its local businesses, we would like to increase awareness of our tours. Therefore, we would like to submit our tour page http://www.tauck.com/tours/europe-tours/italy-tours/ for a linking opportunity. We firmly believe in our tour experience, and would like people from distant places to feel the same passion for Italy. Please contact us should you have questions, concerns or specific requests. Thank you for your consideration, and as always, we value your partnership. Deb DiPreta Tauck 10 Norden Place Norwalk, CT 06855 (203)899-6967 ddipreta@tauck.com
Reply
Marta Ruiz November 5, 2010 at 9:29 am
Loved you reccomendations on Venice. I never would have dared to print that that was number one in Venice getting lost though I truly felt that way as well. I also live close by, in Trieste. I read your blog this morning after spending yesterday wandering with my daughter. Your blog inspired me to go to Murano today with my daughter which I never would have thought to do otherwise, dismissing it as too touristy. But with the attitude of getting lost that you put forth, it took the pressure off and my daughter loved it. So thanks, I will share your great website with other friends that come to visit.
13 of 28
10/24/2012 1:09 AM

Marta
Reply
Jessica November 6, 2010 at 3:39 pm
Thanks for your comment, Marta, and Im glad you enjoyed your Murano visit!
Reply
Charlene November 12, 2010 at 12:48 pm
Jessica, you mention that you need to book a Doges Palace tour to cross the Bridge of Sighs. Is it the regular tour or the Secret Tour? Ive read good and bad about the Secret Tour. Were going to Venice in August before our Med cruise and my husband wants to walk across the Bridge of Sighs so I need to know which tour to book. Thanks.
Reply
Jessica November 22, 2010 at 4:58 pm
Ive not heard of a secret tour for the Doges Palace, Charlene the tour I took was the normal guided tour of the palace and adjacent prison, which is accessed via the Bridge of Sighs. I joined the English tour that was listed at the ticket window of the Palace itself, too, so check there to see if theres one that leaves when its convenient for you then you dont have to book anything in advance.
Reply
priscilla February 4, 2011 at 7:31 am
i would like to come to italy some day.
Reply
Tiffany Hamilton February 9, 2011 at 7:59 am
Hi Jessica, thank you so much for your list of top 10. I lived in Italy when I was very young and although memories are kind of foggy,
14 of 28
10/24/2012 1:09 AM
Venice was a must see/do again. My husband and I are doing a Med cruise in September for our 10 year anniversary and we fly into/start in Venice. We will only have about 4-5 hours to take it all in so your top ten list is really helpful. I am thinking 2, 3 (during the day) and 6 would be great to get the feel with a possible 1 if time permits. Do you think this is doable in that amount of time? I would love to do 5 as I went on a tour when I was a kid and still have some pieces of glass but I am not sure of the time. Also, where would you recommend we go for an amazing bite to eat this is the first time my husband will have gone overseas so I want him to experience it all and authentically Amsterdam LOL I am also planning our budget so was wondering what the tour costs would be I noticed that you said some of them were pricey. Thanks again now I just need to find info on Barcelona, Black Forest in Germany and
Reply
Tiffany Hamilton February 9, 2011 at 8:10 am
Sorry I forgot to mention that I also want to do 7 as well so 1 and 5 would be alternates if time permitted.
Reply
Jessica February 9, 2011 at 3:51 pm
With 4-5 hours, I really think your time is best spent visiting St. Marks Basilica (which is free to get into) and spending at least an hour wandering aimlessly. You dont have to spend much time in the Basilica, although sometimes the line to get in is long (especially when youre part of a cruise ship trip everyone heads for the Basilica first thing). If you can get in without a huge wait, then youre in luck. After you get out of St. Marks, you can certainly do the Doges Palace tour (admission fees are listed from the Doges Palace link above), but I truly think its more valuable to wander into the more remote corners of the city instead. The cafes around St. Marks are routinely overpriced and not very good, so youre more likely to find better food by getting well away from the tourist crowds, too. Heres a list of some places to eat in Venice (these arent my personal recommendations, its a compilation of many reviewers out there): http://www.italylogue.com/food-drink/where-to-eat-in-venice.html
Reply
Deborah Sacks March 29, 2011 at 7:44 am
Thanks for the great article!
Reply
15 of 28
10/24/2012 1:09 AM
Nora April 26, 2011 at 2:31 am
I am so glad I found your articles. I was agonising between spending one night in Venice or one night in Rome given my rushed itinerary, and your articles convinced me. I was in Venice for a brief visit many years ago and being on the steps in St. Mark square listening to the music from the grand piano late in the evening was truly magical. I guess I just have to toss two euros in the Trevi Fountain on my passing stop in Rome and hope to return soon to do the rest. Is it safe for a solo female traveller to stay out and wander alone at night in Venice? Thanks again for the great articles.
Reply
Jessica May 5, 2011 at 11:09 am
I think Venice is very safe, partly because its not a late-night city if youre easily spooked by dimly lit alleys, however, it could be a bit creepy. Ive always said its the ideal city for a murder mystery book (and Im obviously not the only one who thinks that), but in real life Ive never felt unsafe there by myself at any hour.
Reply
lisa May 3, 2011 at 8:32 pm
I really liked this list we have been to Venice several times and actually rented an apt in Murano on our last stay and it was AWESOME! We always go off season, so maybe thats we we love it so. I agree with most everything you suggested with one exception. We went to Venice for our Thanksgiving one year, and it was the weekend they were putting up all of the Christmas lights beautiful! Against mostly everyones suggesting that gondola rides were too expensive and not worth it, we did it anyway, and will NEVER regret it. Go as late as you can find someone to take you. The quiet canals, beautiful lights, and shimmering moon on the water did make it one of our most romantic experiences ever. It can happen, I am here to tell you! Take a chance, and enjoy it!
Reply
Jessica May 5, 2011 at 11:09 am
Thanks for the comment, Lisa I love the idea of Venice lit up by Christmas lights!
Reply
Annie May 11, 2011 at 7:16 pm
16 of 28
10/24/2012 1:09 AM
One thing we did, which was less expensive than a gondola and more fun, was take a water taxi back from Lido. (we took the #1 vaporetto there) We flew through the water, then around the island, where we could see San Michelle and Murano from the boat, then through a few canals. It was great fun. The Pope had followed us there from Rome, so unfortunately things were VERY crowded and San Marcos was closed to the publicIt was tough to get around the San Marco area so we didnt even try for the Doges Palace (see also: crowds from cruise ships). We did manage to get lost and enjoyed every second of that, though!
Reply
Jessica May 13, 2011 at 12:24 pm
That does sound fun, Annie thanks for the suggestion. And really, how rude of the Pope to follow you
Reply
caroline May 13, 2011 at 4:20 am
you should see this show http://www.teatrosangallo.net/Venezia/Welcome.html its on stage everyday and its in english just for touristI recommend it to everyone!!
Reply
maria September 2, 2011 at 1:10 am
Hi.i will travel to rome on tueseday.i stay in italy for 3days.i love venice.how can i travel to venice?can you help me?
Reply
Jessica September 6, 2011 at 3:05 pm
With only three days in Italy, I think you should stay in Rome or spend your entire trip in Venice. But that doesnt seem like a good idea, if you fly in and out of Rome. Enjoy Rome, and return on another visit to see Venice!
Reply
Eric September 8, 2011 at 9:41 am
17 of 28
10/24/2012 1:09 AM
Hi Jessica, great site. It has provided a lot of information in preparation for our upcoming trip to Rome, Florence & Venice (we leave in 10 days woo hoo!!!). Do you have any gelateria recommendations for when we are in Venice. Grazie, Eric.
Reply
Im glad the site has been helpful to you! When you asked about recommended gelatere, I immediately went to the Tour del Gelato site to see what the Venice listings were like and found there arent any at all! http://www.msadventuresinitaly.com /blog/tour-del-gelato-blogroll/ So, here are some places that I found with recommendations you might try (I dont have any personal favorites in Venice): http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/443851 http://www.ricksteves.com/graffiti/helpline/index.cfm?topic=48871 http://www.consumertraveler.com/traveler/the-best-ice-cream-in-venice/
Reply
Eric September 10, 2011 at 12:28 pm
Thanks Jessica, it looks like I will need to try as many as I can and do my own taste testing. I know, tough job, but someone has to do it. If I find any that I really like, I will be sure to pass the info along.
Reply
Ha! Yes, thats not a bad job to have, Eric. Enjoy!
Reply
Eric October 7, 2011 at 9:30 am
Jessica, just back from an incredible 10 days in Italy. I cant thank you enough for the great information on your site. It was a huge help (and per your tip, gelato just about every day had to sample other local specialties too). As for gelato in Venice, Il Doge was excellent, and though we did not get a chance to try, Gelateria Alaska looked great (it was closed the night we went by after seeing it in the afternoon). Also grabbed the sweet treat @ a local GROM location. It was good, but not in the class of Il Doge my green apple was so fresh, I almost was expecting a crunch sound. Also, is it me or does Venetial gelato almost have a bit more of an American ice cream body & texture. It seemed like gelato in Rome & Florence was lighter &
18 of 28
10/24/2012 1:09 AM

creamier. Thanks again!!!
Jessica October 11, 2011 at 4:11 pm
Im so glad you had a good trip, Eric! And thanks for checking back in regarding the gelato in Venice. Grom is a chain in Italy, but its an excellent chain theyre even in New York now so I would expect the quality of Grom to be roughly the same everywhere. Ill have to make a note of your Venetian gelato recommendation, however, for my next visit!
Reply
Gaurov September 13, 2011 at 5:39 pm
Hey Jessica..may I know if there are any hostels or cheap hotels in Venice or near the places of interest as I am heading there by with my gf on a backpacking trip.Kinda on a budget as I am flying from sunny Singapore..might stay for 4-5 days..
Reply
Jessica September 19, 2011 at 4:51 pm
Heres some information on the hostels in Venice: http://www.italylogue.com/accommodation/hostels-in-venice.html There arent many theres only one official HI Hostel and several other room rental places that call themselves hostels. Otherwise, heres some information on budget hotels: http://www.italylogue.com/accommodation/finding-hotels-in-venice.html In particular, on the list under the map theres a link to an article about budget hotels near the train station.
Reply
John P November 12, 2011 at 12:19 am
Best advice we got anywhere was to plan on getting lost, enjoy getting lost and go with it from your site. First day was a bit frustrating then read your comments and made the next two days in Venice the best time of out Italy trip. Relax, get lost and enjoy! Thanks do much!
Reply
19 of 28
10/24/2012 1:09 AM
rohit December 1, 2011 at 4:08 am
Hi Certainly great article. I have made booking for my honeymoon from 12th march in venice. the hotel is 5mins walk from san marco. seems got that one right. But certainly would need some suggestions in what all to see and typically is weather expected to be welcoming
Reply
Jessica December 19, 2011 at 6:51 pm
Heres some overall information on the weather in March in Italy: http://www.italylogue.com/planning-a-trip/italy-in-march.html And heres more information about Venice: http://www.italylogue.com/venice
Reply
Robyn January 22, 2012 at 12:20 pm
Hi Jessica! This is a fabulous page! I am going with my friend in March for 4 days so we can explore and get lost lots!! Cant wait! Can you suggest any amazing cafes or restaurants?? (That are also not too expensive!!) Thanks!!
Reply
Jessica January 23, 2012 at 3:58 pm
I dont keep up lists of where to eat in each city thats a whole full-time job right there! but I do have some tips on finding good food in Venice here: http://www.italylogue.com/planning-a-trip/how-to-eat-well-in-venice.html And if you have an iPhone, some of these Venice apps may have useful dining information, too: http://www.italylogue.com/planning-a-trip/iphone-apps-for-venice-travel.html
Reply
20 of 28
10/24/2012 1:09 AM
Chitra February 3, 2012 at 5:56 am
Hii Jessica.. I am planning to visit Italy from 01,03,12 to 05,03,12. My present plan is to fly from Frankfurt to Rome on 1 March, then travel from Rome to Venice on 02,03,12 night enjoy Venice for 2 days and leave from Venice on 4th night to Pisa and then from Pisa, back to Frankfurt on 5th MArch. Can you please let me know if there is any travel pass in Italy or I should book the tickets between Rome-Venice-Pisa seperately. Thanking you in anticipation, Chitra
Reply
Jessica February 14, 2012 at 12:04 pm
Im not sure what you mean by a travel pass for Italy, do you mean a Eurail Pass? Depending on what country youre a resident of, you can get a Eurail Pass but youll need to do some figuring to see if its the best option for your particular itinerary. Go to this page: http://www.italylogue.com/train And go to the section that says Buying an Italy Rail Pass vs. Buying Train Tickets youll find more information there about how to figure out which option is best for you.
Reply
Annabelle February 21, 2012 at 12:49 pm
Hi Jessica, thank you for the great Top 10 lists and tips on seeing Venice. Planning a trip in late August I know peak tourist season, but that cant be helped this time. Where can I buy a Chorus Pass, and what does it give you access to? 16 churches anything else?
Reply
Jessica March 6, 2012 at 5:53 pm
21 of 28
10/24/2012 1:09 AM
I actually wasnt familiar with the Chorus Pass all the Venice discount cards I knew about are here: http://www.italylogue.com/planning-a-trip/venice-discount-cards-and-passes.html I looked up the Chorus Pass, and it appears its completely separate so just the churches: http://www.chorusvenezia.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=37&Itemid=25
Reply
Tara March 27, 2012 at 11:53 am
Hi Jessica! Thanks for the great advice! Im going with my mom and aunt in May and we are so excited! We fly into the airport and we stay at a hotel in Lido is it easy to get to? Also we will be trying to do as much as we can on your list for the two full days we have, but is there a guidebook you would recommend for while we are walking around perhaps? Thanks so much for your help!
Reply
Jessica April 6, 2012 at 12:43 pm
Heres my article about getting from Venices airport into Venice: http://www.italylogue.com/planning-a-trip/getting-from-venice-marco-polo-airport-to-venice-and-vice-versa.html The Lido is further away than the main Venetian islands, so that would mean if you took the bus or a vaporetto to the main islands youd have to switch to a different boat to get to the Lido. And if you opt for a private taxi boat, itll be a longer (& therefore more expensive) trip. You should email the hotel where youre staying on the Lido & ask what they recommend. Any good Italy guidebook that has a decent Venice section would be fine for your trip. Ive used both Rick Steves & Lonely Planet in the past, but there are plenty of other good options.
Reply
momster April 14, 2012 at 12:32 am
Jessica, do you have a recommendation for a quaint little bed and breakfast for a girlfriend, 24-hour trip? Wed rather have authentic and charming than trendy hotel and spa feel. Love your recommendations and hope to fit the top five in our quick trip.
Reply
22 of 28
10/24/2012 1:09 AM
I dont do accommodation reviews anymore, but I have a few articles on hotels in Venice that are broken into categories you might find useful (http://www.italylogue.com/accommodation/finding-hotels-in-venice.html). For such a short trip, the main thing Id focus on is location on the islands (not the mainland) for sure, and if you want a place thats a little off the regular tourist path then look for places not near St. Marks Square or the Rialto Bridge!
Reply
Lionel Jacob April 21, 2012 at 11:57 pm
WE will be in Venice 20th Aug to23rd Aug 2012 and found the hints from Jessica very interesting. WE then have aweek in Manarola, then 3 days in Rome. What is the best way to travel from Venice to Manarola in one day? Thank you, regards Lionel.
Reply
Heres the article you need: http://www.italylogue.com/planning-a-trip/getting-from-venice-to-the-cinque-terre-and-vice-versa.html
Reply
Suzanne May 4, 2012 at 10:40 pm
For the second time in 18 months have visited Venice .. (stayed in Rome took day trips via fast rail) My first visit to Venice Oct 2010 .. Just love Venice. Walking through the streets, enjoying Coffee breaks, the people. Visited Rome again March 2012 our trip was highlighted again, by visiting Venice. Suzanne Sydney. Australia
Reply
Mark July 14, 2012 at 7:23 am
Hi does anybody know of any good beaches Close to Venice ,white sandy beaches or is that Asking to much ?
23 of 28
10/24/2012 1:09 AM

Reply
Keith August 14, 2012 at 12:48 am
Hi Jessica. Its our 3rd day in Venice and what a beautiful place. Very crowded this time of year, but just as fun since I love to People watch. Just ran across your article while enjoying a Spritz outside at the Hotel Savoia & Jolanda. I echo the positive comments about your recommendations. They may not be for everyone, but for those who like to explore and not spend all of their time shopping, you hit the mark. Its our first time to Venice and 3-4 days seems perfect. Weve gotten lost several times and hoping to do some more of that today. For those of you who like to get in an early morning run, the streets and pathways of Venice are great as long as you are done by 8:00am. Once 8:30-9:00 hits its like clock work with the bell towers going off and the boat loads of interesting people show up. I totally agree about skipping the Gondola ride, unless you dont care about spending $100 U.S. for a short 20-30 minute boat ride while thousands of people stare and take pictures of you as you pass under every bridge. If you have to say you did it, Id recommend finding a few other people to split the cost with since most of the gondolas seat 6 people. Well, off to get lost again and then leaving Venice tomorrow. Going to see If you have any recommendations for Rome before we take the train down in the morning. Thanks, Keith .
Reply
Amy August 20, 2012 at 1:00 am
I visited Venice a couple of weeks ago and the most amazing part was getting up at 5am one morning and heading out to try and get lost! All the other tourists were still in bed, it was just us and the locals getting ready for the day, setting up stalls and boats bringing in deliveries etc. We found ourselves overlooking Isola di San Michele just as the sun rose it was just magical! After wandering around, completely lost, we eventually ended up at St Marks Square empty! We then rode the Vaporetto back to our accommodation not far from the train station where it stopped at every stop, taking all the locals to work took nearly an hour. It was the most perfect morning and a real highlight of my whole 6 week European trip I highly recommend it!
Reply
may August 24, 2012 at 12:42 pm
Jessica wonderful read! I just lost a whole day of work I decided that beginning next year, each year I will learn the language and travel to a new country for a month. I am planning on traveling to Italy in May, beginning in Venice per your perfect 2-week itinerary. If you could add one more week to it, what would it include? I love the agriturismo idea in Tuscany. Maybe a stop/day trip in Bologna, Genoa and Siena? I love food, architecture and nature. Thanks!
24 of 28
10/24/2012 1:09 AM
Reply
Hotel venice airport October 5, 2012 at 4:45 am
You did and awesome job writing this guide over Venice.
Reply Leave a Comment
Name * E-mail * Website
Previous post: Top 10 Things to Do in Rome Next post: Top 10 Things to Do in Florence
Book Your Trip

Flights Hotels Vacation Packages Hostels
(VCE) Venice Depart (VCE) Venice Return
Include Hotels for the Best Deals
JOIN WhyGo Italy

Like Send 3,143 people like this. Be the first of your friends.
Follow @italylogue
About WhyGo Italy
25 of 28
10/24/2012 1:09 AM

40
RSS
GET EMAIL UPDATES FROM WhyGo Italy
Related posts
Hotels Near St. Mark's Square in Venice 5 Essential Venice Survival Tips Day Trips from Venice Free Things to Do in Venice Getting from Milan to Venice (and Vice Versa) Getting from Venice Marco Polo Airport to Venice (and Vice Versa) See more
Explore Italy
Amalfi Coast Bologna Cinque Terre Florence Italian Food Italian Language See more
Nearby Locations
Amsterdam Croatia England
26 of 28
10/24/2012 1:09 AM

Edinburgh France Greece Ireland London Paris Portugal Scotland Spain Sweden Turkey
Your site here

Today's Travel Deals
$569* & up -- Europe Fall Fare Sale,
Roundtrip incl. Tax
10/23/12
$79-$89 -- FL: Hotel near Universal

incl. Shuttles, 40% Off
Orlando: More than 175 Resorts on Sale, 50% Off

Listed by . * Some taxes, fees additional
More Italy deals
About WhyGo | Archives | Contact Us 2012 BootsnAll Travel Network- All rights reserved
27 of 28
10/24/2012 1:09 AM
1 (503) 528-1005
28 of 28
10/24/2012 1:09 AM

Top 10 Things To Do in Venice - Italy Travel Guide

Încărcat de

Informații document

Titlu original

Drepturi de autor

Formate disponibile

Partajați acest document

Partajați sau inserați document

Opțiuni de partajare

Vi se pare util acest document?

Este necorespunzător acest conținut?

Drepturi de autor:

Formate disponibile

Top 10 Things To Do in Venice - Italy Travel Guide

Încărcat de

Drepturi de autor:

Formate disponibile

Top 10 Things to Do in Venice | Italy Travel Guide