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About this guide
Known as “The Floating City”, Venice, Italy is noted as a one-of-a-kind destination that feels like stepping into a dream. With winding canals, romantic gondola rides, and Venetian Gothic architecture, this gorgeous northeastern city magically blends history, culture, and charm. Travelers can wander through the narrow alleyways, admire world-famous art, and savor fresh seafood by the Grand Canal. Venice offers unforgettable experiences like a tour at the iconic St. Mark’s Basilica and group tours showing boutiques just off the beaten path.
The main airport serving Venice is Venice Marco Polo Airport, located about 8 miles from the city center. A smaller airport called Treviso Airport, also known as Antonio Canova Airport, serves local budget airlines like Ryanair. To reach these airports, travelers can take the Alilaguna water bus, a private water taxi, or a land taxi or bus from Piazzale Roma. It's best to allow extra time for travel, especially with an early flight, since navigating the canals can take longer than expected.
Interestingly, cars are not allowed in the historic center of Venice. Arriving by car means parking at Piazzale Roma or Tronchetto Parking Island before using a vaporetto (water bus) or water taxi to get around.
Venice’s entirely water-based public transportation makes for a unique experience. The vaporetto (water bus) is the most popular budget-friendly option for traveling the canals and nearby Murano and Burano islands. Purchase tickets at the stations or in advance online for a simple hassle-free itinerary.
Without a doubt, walking along the waterways is one of the best ways to experience Venice’s charm. With no cars and endless winding alleys, canals, and bridges, travelers can stumble into hidden squares and artisan shops. Just wear comfy shoes and check the weather reports early as there are lots of steps and cobblestones.
Quick facts
Central European Time (CET)
Euro (€)
Italian, Venetian (Veneto dialect), English
Good For
Romantic Getaway
Art and Architecture Aficionados
Renaissance History Buffs
Venetian Culinary Tours
Keep in mind
Gourmet
Gourmet: Places To Eat In Venice, Italy
Savor authentic Venetian flavors at Cantina Aziende Agricole with plates of cicchetti, fresh seafood, and classic Italian pastas paired with local wines. Whether stopping by for lunch, dinner, or a casual bite with friends, this cozy spot offers a true taste of traditional Italian cuisine.
For Michelin-star dining, Local Ristorante serves innovative Venetian cuisine crafted from locally sourced seasonal ingredients. Favorites like Bottoni with Jerusalem artichoke and dry-aged duck with bee pollen stand out as a refined tribute to Venice.
Chef Jozef’s menu at Osteria Fanal del Còdega is full of sophisticated traditional dishes and specialties from land and sea. Enjoy a romantic canal-side meal, just steps from Frari Basilica and minutes from the Rialto Bridge with warm Venetian hospitality.
Meat lovers shouldn’t miss Al Grill, known for expertly sourced, top-quality steaks selected from the best Italian and Austrian suppliers. Pair the savory meal with decadent dessert like creamy tiramisu or rich cheesecake for a truly satisfying dining experience.
The beloved Gelatoteca Suso serves well-known creamy, all-natural gelato made without artificial colorants. With a focus on seasonal flavors, eco-friendly practices, and exceptional service, it's the perfect sweet stop in Venice.
Coffee enthusiasts will love Caffe Del Doge for its expertly crafted Venetian-style drinks with signature 100% Arabica Doge Rosso blend. Pair espresso or specialty beverages with fresh sweet or savory pastries in a cozy, authentic setting near the Grand Canal.
Play
Play: Things To Do In Venice, Italy
Departing from Piazzale Roma, visitors can uncover the origins of Italy’s most famous sparkling wine on a Discover The Unique Prosecco Wine Region tour with a local expert guide. Guests journey through the scenic Valdobbiadene and Conegliano hills, visit two traditional wineries, enjoy guided tastings, and savor a light lunch featuring local specialties.
Take part in Venetian tradition at the Mask Workshop In A Secret Garden, hosted by Carta Alta—the studio behind masks featured in Spider-Man: Far From Home. Learn the rich history of mask-making, explore baroque techniques with expert artisans, and create a paper-mâché masterpiece to take home.
Learn chilling secrets of Venice’s shadowy past during Legends, Ghosts and Ghouls of Venice, where eerie folklore comes to life. This spine-tingling experience dives into graphic legends, ghost sightings, and the dark history behind noble betrayals and haunted streets.
The Holy Theft Exploration Game and Self-Guided Tour follows an immersive story about a burglar trying to save his daughter. This app-guided adventure goes past iconic landmarks, like St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace, turning sightseeing into a thrilling challenge.
Avoid tourist traps and taste the real Venice on the Venice Walking Food Tour with samples of authentic local dishes. This small group shares the city's rich culinary history and everyday Venetian life—one delicious bite at a time.
The Wave Murano Glassblowing Beginner’s Class teaches the ancient craft of Venetian glassmaking with expert artisans to create unique pottery. Perfect for couples and families, this hands-on experience offers an opportunity to learn Venetian artwork on the legendary island of Murano.
Celebrate the Baroque Spring Season 2025, featuring live performances of iconic works by Venetian composers played on authentic period instruments. With a rotating program and renowned guest ensembles from around the world, each concert offers a one-of-a-kind cultural experience.
Escape the city for a full day in breathtaking alpine beauty on A Day At The Beautiful Dolomites and Lake Braies tour from Venice. This group adventure travels through stunning mountains, charming villages like Cortina d’Ampezzo, and the serene Lake Misurina which are hard to reach without a guide.