Venice is genuinely unlike nowhere else thanks to its centuries-old architecture, cobblestone lanes, tangle of striking islands, and, of course, the well-known canals that wind through it all. Veneto’s (one of Italy’s 20 regions) capital is certainly stunning, but it’s also a very genuine city. Tourist destinations include Piazza San Marco and the Grand Canal: Nestled among Gothic cathedrals and Renaissance palaces are meandering lanes lined with cafés, gelaterias, and shops. However, once you’ve seen the must-see locations (like as the Gallerie dell’Accademia museum and St Mark’s Campanile), check out the less well-known areas like Cannaregio, Dorsoduro, and Castellom, where people congregate at quiet trattorias for afternoon aperitivo. Also, don’t overlook the neighbouring islands. Burano, with its elaborate lace work and vividly coloured buildings, and Murano, renowned for its colourful hand-blown glass, are both easily accessible by ferry. See more recommendations below.

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Flights To Venice Guide

Venice, a city of unique canals and historic sites, is easily accessible by air. The main airport, Marco Polo Airport (VCE), is 13 kilometres from the town centre. It’s a bustling hub with many flights worldwide and all the modern amenities you can request. If you’re a budget traveller, consider Treviso Airport (TSF), about 40 kilometres away. It’s an excellent choice for those flying with airlines like Ryanair, offering a more economical travel option.

Once you’ve arrived, several convenient ways to reach your hotel are available. You can opt for a scenic water taxi ride, a bus if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option or a train from Treviso station. Woking Travel offers direct transfers from both airports to your hotel to make your journey even smoother. For more information, visit our Transfers Page.

Woking Travel is an excellent place to begin looking for accommodation when you want to spend time in Venice on any budget. For more information, see our hotels or packages page. Whether you prefer luxury or affordability, Venice has something to offer. Here are the top ten hotels that will serve you with high-quality services, give you excellent views, and give you a touch of Venetian charm.

  1. Palazzo Veneziano: It is positioned on the Grand Canal, which links modern luxury and the city’s historical richness. Enjoy elegant rooms, a terrace kitchen, and brilliant views of the canals.

  2. Baglioni Hotel Luna: One of the many historic buildings facing the Grand Canal in Venice, Baglioni Hotel Luna offers clients outstanding services in an exquisite setting.

  3. Palazzina Grassi: This small hotel near St Mark’s Square is ideal for select travellers who favour contemporary design and attractive facilities like Palazzina Grassi.

  4. Hotel Moresco: For a truly Venetian experience, Hotel Moresco is situated in the Cannaregio district and features beautiful rooms, lush garden-like surroundings that bring freshness to your stay, and personalised services for comfort.

  5. Hotel Saturnia & International Venezia: Just close to said hotel by classical style combined with modern conveniences, this building has elegant rooms up to the spa centre and a popular restaurant.

  6. Hilton Molino Stucky Venice: Famously located on Giudecca Island, Hilton Molino Stucky offers stunning waterfront settings. It also has a rooftop pool and spacious rooms with panoramic cityscape vistas.

  7. Rosa Salva Hotel: Chic Rosa Salva Hotel is in a central location, ensuring stylish accommodations at your service, accompanied by all necessary attention from staff. 

  8. Hotel Antiche Figure: The Hotel Antiche Figure, perched right on the Grand Canal, offers a charming view of the lagoon. Guests can expect traditional Venetian decor and warm hospitality.

  9. Hotel Canal Grande: In a 15th-century Palazzo, Hotel Canal Grande offers romantic canal views and elegant rooms to make your stay memorable.

  10. Il Palazzo Experimental: This stylish hotel in the Dorsoduro quarter combines modern design innovation with traditional Venetian spirit through its chic accommodations and trendy cocktail bar atmosphere.

Venice’s transportation system is different from other cities because it is a unique city built on canals. The city centre lacks cars or buses, but several other alternatives allow people to move comfortably and efficiently around the place.

  1. Water Buses (Vaporetto): Vaporettos are affordable water bus services in Venice that serve the entire city and its environs. They offer convenient services with frequent schedules. Vaporetto Line 1, which runs along the Grand Canal, stops at Rialto Bridge and St Mark Square, among other major attractions.
  2. Water Taxis: Water taxis cost more than water buses but are private and faster alternatives. Unlike water buses, water taxis go directly to your destination. For instance, one could be picked up by a water taxi at the airport and dropped directly at their hotel room, offering a smooth beginning to their stay.
  3. Gondolas: These iconic boats provide romantic and traditional ways of seeing the city, offering rides throughout. Though gondolas are mainly used for tours, they can also be used for transport. A gondola journey through Venice’s narrow canals will give you an unusual perspective on its historical buildings.
  4. Traghetti: Traghetti are gondola ferries that cross the Grand Canal at specific points where there are no bridges across it. They help move across fast and cheaply. For example, locals and tourists use the traghetto near Rialto Market to cross between sections of town divided by this canal.
  5. Walking: One great way to explore Venice is by walking all over it. Being pedestrian-friendly, this layout has many narrow streets and alleys that can be discovered only on one foot. This entails strolling from Santa Lucia train station up to San Marco Piazza, which lets you get a feel for real Venice at your own pace.
  6. Alilaguna: Alilaguna is a private water bus service that connects Venice with its airport and other nearby islands. Alilaguna is perfect for travellers who need to get directly from the airport. For example, Alilaguna Blue Line boats go through Marco Polo Airport and head to Murano or Lido Islands destinations.
  1. St. Mark’s Basilica: This is an example of Byzantine architecture’s perfect artistry. It has out-of-this-world mosaics with relics of St Mark. Its greatness and exquisite nature are one reason why many people visit it.

  2. Doge’s Palace: The Doge’s Palace, once the seat of Venetian power, showcases Gothic architecture and opulent interiors. Explore the sumptuous rooms, the famous Bridge of Sighs, and prison cells.

  3. Rialto Bridge: The Rialto Bridge is one of Venice’s most important landmarks. Crossing the Grand Canal, you can see amazing views and shops selling jewellery, souvenirs, and local crafts.

  4. Grand Canal: The city’s main waterway teems with vaporettos, water taxis, and gondolas ply up and down it every day. During a boat ride, the canal offers a different perspective on Venice’s palaces and bridges.

  5. St. Mark’s Square: St Mark’s Square, or Piazza San Marco, is the heart of Venice. Surrounded by cafes and historic buildings, it is vibrant with life and an architectural marvel.

  6. Murano: Murano is known for its glass industry. Tourists can visit glass factories and watch skilled artisans produce Murano glass artefacts, which they can buy as souvenirs.

  7. Burano: Burano is famous for its colourful residences and lace-making traditions. It is a picturesque island where you can experience the unique charm of your day trip and some artistic heritage.

  8. Peggy Guggenheim Collection: It houses modern artworks from Palazzo Venier dei Leoni. Most celebrated artists, such as Picasso, Pollock, and Dalí, have their works exhibited here, thus showing just how valuable this part of culture means to them.

  9. Ca’ Rezzonico: Ca’ Rezzonico is a museum dedicated to 18th-century Venice. It displays luxuriously decorated rooms and art pieces made during that time and offers insights into the lives of Venetian nobility.

  10. Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute: This magnificent baroque church is at the Grand Canal’s entrance. Its dome and interior are unique, making it easily recognizable.

Venice is not only known for its historic charm but also its diverse culinary scene. Here are the top ten restaurants where you can enjoy a delightful meal in various parts of the city:

  1. Caffé Florian: Located in San Marco, Caffé Florian is one of the oldest cafes in Europe. It offers traditional Venetian cuisine in a historic and elegant setting.

  2. Riva Rosa Ristorante: This Restaurant blends Mediterranean and Venetian flavours, making it a must-visit for food lovers seeking a culinary journey in Venice’s iconic landscape settings.

  3. Trattoria al Gatto Nero: Situated on the island of Burano, Trattoria al Gatto Nero is famous for its authentic Venetian cuisine, cosy surroundings, and genuine atmosphere appreciated by locals and visitors.

  4. Ostaria Boccadora: Located near the Rialto Bridge, Ostaria Boccadora is a small, friendly trattoria known for its robust Venetian dishes and extensive wine list. Its rustic decor and welcoming vibe make it a favourite among tourists and residents.

  5. Trattoria alla Rampa: Nestled in the Castello district, Trattoria alla Rampa is an intimate eatery offering old-fashioned Venetian cuisine in a pleasant and relaxed environment.

  6. Ristorante Quadri: Situated in Piazza San Marco, Ristorante Quadri boasts a Michelin-starred menu featuring innovative Italian cuisine. It offers a luxurious dining experience in the heart of Venice.

  7. Paradiso Perduto: Located in Cannaregio, Paradiso Perduto is known for its lively atmosphere, live music, and delicious seafood dishes based on traditional regional recipes.

  8. Osteria La Zucca: In Santa Croce, Osteria La Zucca is renowned for its mouthwatering vegetarian meals. It provides a warm and inviting ambiance for vegetarians and vegetable lovers alike.

  9. Lineadombra: Famous for its waterside dining in Dorsoduro, Lineadombra serves delightful food with beautiful views, making it a perfect spot for a romantic meal or a special occasion.

  10. Antiche Carampane: Tucked away in San Polo, Antiche Carampane is beloved for its classic Venetian seafood dishes and cosy, traditional atmosphere, offering an authentic taste of Venice.

Exploring Venice uncovers a wealth of historical and cultural attributes that are interwoven with its charm. The following are the best ten activities to do in this captivating city:

  1. St. Mark’s Basilica: Piazza San Marco is one of the world’s most famous Byzantine churches, St. Mark’s Basilica. Its mosaics are among the finest in the world and give insights into the city’s religious inclinations and artistic orientations.

  2. Doge’s Palace: Doge’s Palace demonstrates Venice’s opulence and might and illustrates Gothic architecture at its best. It has interesting historical exhibits, like the infamous Bridge of Sighs.

  3. Grand Canal: Venice’s Grand Canal can be experienced by gondola ride or quiet walk to see palaces, bridges, and waterfront activity that characterise it.

  4. Cicchetti Tasting: For authentic Venetian gastronomy, explore Venetian Bacari for cicchetti, a small Italian snack served with wine.

  5. Gallerie dell’Accademia: Art lovers should visit this renowned museum, which has an incredible collection of Venetian paintings from different centuries, including works by Titian, Tintoretto, and Veronese.

  6. Rialto Bridge: Rialto Bridge marvels architecture-wise and is among Venice’s landmarks that have been pictured countless times since existence began by human beings; where you will get a clear view across the Grand Canal while others roam below instals.

  7. Murano and Burano Islands: You can take a scenic boat trip to visit Murano and Burano Islands, which have glass factories and coloured houses. Each island has its unique characteristic, showcasing Venetian craftworks and local customs.

  8. Venetian Mask Shopping: Shops are selling beautiful Venetian masks to immerse yourself in Venice’s carnival spirit since they are carefully hand-made and have such a history and tradition.

  9. Peggy Guggenheim Collection: The Peggy Guggenheim Collection, located along the Grand Canal in her former residence, is a must-see for art lovers. There is an extensive collection of modern art masterpieces.

  10. Venetian Aperitivo: End your day with a traditional Venetian aperitif at one of the city’s quaint bars. Sip spritz cocktails while enjoying sweet or savoury delicacies such as cicchetti and soak in Venice’s timeless atmosphere.

Your weather experience matters significantly in Venice, whether you are basking on the beach during summer or visiting historic sites during winter. Here is what to expect:

Summer (June – August)

  • Average Temperature: 25°C – 30°C
  • Rainfall: Mild and thunderstorms sometimes occur.
  • Activities: This is the best time to go to the beach, ride a gondola, or enjoy an open-air café. During the summer, one can find cheap deals on flights to Venice and enjoy its lively ambiance.

Winter (December – February)

  • Average Temperature: 0°C – 7°C
  • Rainfall: Little but with occasional mists and high humidity levels.
  • Activities: It is perfect for museum hopping, cosy cafes, and experiencing the famous Venice Carnival. In winter, however, the city has another kind of charm that is just as enthralling.

For more detailed weather information, check out our local weather guide.

  • GMT to Venice: Venice is 1 hours ahead of GMT. 
  • BST to Venice: Venice is 1 hour ahead of BST, as well.

Currency:

  • Euro (€) is the official currency used in Venice. Most places accept cash and cards, but small shops might prefer some money.

Language:

  • Italian is the official language; however, English is widely spoken, especially around tourist areas, making it easier for visitors.

Local Customs:

When you visit religious places, dress conservatively, including covering your shoulders and knees. Tipping is not compulsory, but it is appreciated; rounding up the bill or leaving small changes is expected. Refrain from sitting or lying on staircases, footbridges, or edges of fountains in busy pedestrian areas.

Laws:

To learn more about the laws pertaining to travellers in Venice, please visit the following sites:

Venice, also referred to as the “City of Canals,” “The Floating City,” or “Serenissima,” is undoubtedly one of the most attractive cities in all of Italy. Venice is a well-liked tourism destination because of its picturesque bridges, winding canals, and remarkable architecture.

Book your Venice escapade with Woking Travel today!