Venice: Dive into the Magic of the Floating City

• Doge’s Palace
  Doge’s Palace is a Gothic masterpiece and a must-visit. Pre-booking tickets is a smart move to avoid long lines. Inside, you’ll find grand halls, stunning art and the famous Bridge of Sighs.

• St. Mark's Basilica
  St. Mark's Basilica is a showstopper with its opulent design and incredible mosaics. Pre-book your visit to save time and make sure to dress modestly as it's a place of worship. Don’t miss the Pala d'Oro, an altarpiece adorned with gold and precious stones.

• St. Mark’s Square
  St. Mark's Square is simply breathtaking, with its charming cafes and shops. Just be mindful that they can be quite touristy, which often translates to higher prices and sometimes mediocre quality. Still, treating yourself to a drink here is a must to soak in the vibrant atmosphere.

• The Campanile
  The Campanile in St. Mark's Square offers breathtaking views of Venice and the lagoon. While pre-booking is available, it’s not essential. The view from the top is absolutely worth it if you have the time!

• Basilica Santa Maria della Salute
  A stunning church located across the main canal from St. Mark's Square. It's definitely worth the walk, not just for the picturesque view from that side of the canal, but also because of the charming art stores that surround it. You will cross Ponte dell’Accademia, a charming wood and metal bridge with amazing views.

• Ponte di Rialto
  The area around Ponte di Rialto is buzzing with life — shops, market stalls and restaurants galore! It's a great place to stroll and soak in the Venetian vibes. But a word to the wise: skip the restaurants here. They’re often touristy, overpriced and not the best quality.

• Gondola ride
  Exploring Venice by gondola is a quintessential experience that offers a unique perspective of the city's enchanting canals. Gondolas are readily available for hire throughout Venice, with rates typically set at €90 before 7 pm and €110 after 7 pm.

Day trips

Got some extra time? Take a trip to Murano and Burano!

Murano is renowned for its exquisite glassmaking craft. Watching the skilled artisans at work and selecting beautiful glass pieces is a delightful experience. Whether you choose to visit the larger glass production houses or the smaller, more intimate shops run by local artisans, each offers a unique perspective. Personally, I find it fascinating to explore both to appreciate the varied styles and techniques they showcase. Don't forget, many shops offer shipping services, so you can easily purchase and have your treasured glass pieces sent home, hassle-free.

Burano is famous for its vibrant, colorful houses and intricate lace-making tradition. It’s a photographer’s paradise and an ideal spot for leisurely strolls. If there’s one island you absolutely shouldn’t miss, it’s Burano. Its charming, quaint atmosphere and rainbow of colors are truly captivating. Take your time to wander around and marvel at the unique hues of each house.

Consider joining a small group with a private boat for a more personalized and relaxed tour.

Venice is a seafood lover’s paradise. Here are some top spots to check out:

• Vineria all’Amarone: A cozy wine bar with an excellent selection of wines and tasty cicchetti (Venetian tapas).

• Osteria al Cantinon: Fresh seafood and traditional Venetian dishes in a charming setting.

• Ristorante St. Angelo: Refined dining with a menu featuring both seafood and classic Italian dishes.

• Ristorante Santa Maria Formosa: Great ambiance and a varied menu.

• Suso Gelatoteca: Famous for its high-quality, artisanal gelato. A must-visit for a sweet treat!