The best the floating city has to offer.
I just came back from Venice. This was my second time visiting and I fell in love with this city all over again. This is why it’s my favorite place to visit in Italy:
Doge’s Palace:
This building was where the Doge, or president, of Venice resided. It was also the home to council chambers, residential apartments, and prison cells. The palace overlooks St. Mark’s Square and the lagoon. The tour takes approximately 3 hours. After your tour, make sure to check out to Bridge of Sighs, which was the last view of Venice that convicts saw before their imprisonment.
Piazza San Marco:
This is the main square in Venice that has many great cafes and awesome people watching. Grab a drink and listen to the live music.
St. Mark’s Basilica:
This is Venice’s most famous church and one of the best-known examples of Italy-Byzantine architecture. It is located in Piazza San Marco. It is free to go in. Make sure to wear clothes that cover your shoulders and legs as it is a holy place and backpacks are not allowed inside. You can get tickets beforehand. If you do not, the line looks very long but goes by quickly. Make sure to check out the visiting hours before you go.
Gondola ride:
Enjoy time on the water with a gondola ride! A gondola can fit up to six people. It is 80 euros during the day and 100 euros at night for a 30-minute ride.
T Fondaco dei Tedeschi by DFS:
An upscale mall on the Grand Canal with a terrace and a free view overlooking all of Venice. Reserve tickets beforehand to skip the line.
Peggy Guggenheim Collection:
A modern art museum on the Grand Canal which is located in what was once the home of Peggy Guggenheim. On display are Guggenheim’s vast art collection including Picasso, Ernst, Pollack, and Calder.
Rialto Bridge:
The most famous bridge that crosses over the Grand Canal which is lined with little shops. Make sure to check it out at night when it is especially beautiful.
Mercati di Rialto:
Located near the Rialto Bridge, this market sells amazing varieties of fruit, fish, and vegetables to locals and tourists alike. This market has been doing so for centuries. It is only open Tuesday through Saturday.
Day trip to Murano and Burano:
Murano and Murano are two islands off of Venice. Murano is known for its glass blowing and Burano is known for lace and its colorful buildings. To get to these islands, buy an all-day ferry pass for 20 euros. Pick up the ferry from Fondamente Nove in Venice.
Ponte di Chiodo:
Located in a less touristy area, this bridge has no side rails or walls. This is the only bridge of its kind in Venice. It is a great photo opportunity.
Shopping:
Venice has some of the best shopping. They have amazing leather items and clothes. Make sure to check it out as you are walking around!
Food:
Trattoria Al Gazzettino:
A favorite of both locals and tourists, Trattoria Al Gazzettino serves local, yummy food that will not disappoint.
Dal Moros Pasta:
For a quick on the go lunch, stop at Dal Moros Pasta. They make homemade, to-go pasta that’s about 6 euros. Be prepared to wait, there is always a huge line.
Frulala:
A fun juice bar that serves smoothies, acai bowls, yogurt bowls, and spiked juices at night.
Suso Gelatoteca:
The best gelato in Venice. It is creamy and delicious and great prices for quality gelato.
