Begin your trip in Venice with a visit to the iconic St. Mark's Square, also known as Piazza San Marco. This bustling public square is surrounded by stunning architecture, including the impressive St. Mark's Basilica and the historic clock tower. Take a relaxing gondola ride through the canals or enjoy a delicious Italian gelato as you stroll through the square.
Explore the stunning Doge's Palace, the former residence of the Doge of Venice, a role similar to a governor, now converted into an art museum. This impressive palace is a great way to experience the Venetian Renaissance and Gothic architecture.
Finally, head to the impressive Rialto Bridge, the oldest bridge to cross over the Grand Canal, and take in breathtaking panoramic views of Venice. The bridge connects two bustling neighborhoods filled with shops, restaurants and bars, making it a great spot to grab a drink or souvenir.
While in Venice, expect to get around mainly by foot, water buses or gondolas. Gondola rides are a unique and relaxing way to see the city, but they can be expensive. A cheaper way to get around is by taking the water buses (vaporetti), which are affordable and stop at several locations. A one-way ticket for a single ride costs €7.50, but consider buying a 24-hour, 48-hour, or 72-hour pass to save some money. Keep in mind Venice is a walkable city, and many sights are just a few minutes apart by foot.
If you have more time, consider visiting the nearby islands of Murano and Burano, known for their glass-blowing and lace-making traditions, respectively. These islands are easily accessible by water bus from the main island of Venice. If you are traveling with children, a visit to the Lido Beach or the Naval History Museum might be a good idea to entertain them. For those with less time, skip the gondola ride and head straight to the sights to save time and money. Also, be prepared for large crowds during peak season (April to October)
The main airport in Venice is the Marco Polo airport - VCE, located about 8 miles north of the city center. The airport is served by both local and international flights. A taxi ride from the airport to the city center takes about 20-30 minutes and costs €35-€45. Alternatively, you can take a water taxi, which can cost from €100 depending on the location you want to go to. It might be a better idea to take a shuttle bus or train, which costs about €8-€12, depending on your departure point.