Venice 

We arrived on a Friday afternoon and left on a Sunday afternoon. Our days were full, and we included a boat trip to nearby cities Murano and Burano, but we felt we saw a lot of the city. If I were to do it again, I would probably go for a minimum of 3 nights to leisurely visit. 

 

Travel & Getting Around

Starting in Rome, we took a fast train from Roma Termini to Stazione di Venezia Santa Lucia which took about 4 hours. We were able to walk from the station to our hotel, but from there you can easily hop on the vaporetto or hire a water taxi. 

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We did a lot of walking, like over 10K steps per day so wear comfy shoes if you're like us*. To cross the Grand Canal there are a few options, we used: walk, a vaporetto, a traghetto or a water taxi. 

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• Vaporetto-- basically a bus on water. Not only is this a great way to get around without walking, this is an incredible way to see the city from the water. There are several lines so you can get on almost anywhere. You can buy tickets ahead of time and there are options for a single, 24/48/72 hour ticket.  

• Traghetto-- this is essentially a public gondola which brings you from one side of the canal to the other for €2 per ride. There are several spots along the canal you can hop on. This is a great option if you want to ride a gondola, without paying €80+ euros. 

• Water Taxi-- definitely the most expensive option, but probably the quickest. Water taxis can fit up to 10 people, so a great option if you're a lot of people and can split the price. 

 

Of course, don't forget about the gondolas! We actually didn't do this, they're a bit pricey and I don't love being stared at or having my pic taken by strangers but a unique and beautiful way to get around and see the city. You can also take one at night which looked super peaceful and romantic! 

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*Keep in mind there are some uneven paths and bridges with about 4-10 steps, so wear appropriate footwear. Depending on the season and level of the water there could also be flooding. 

 

Where We Stayed

We stayed at Hotel Apostoli Garden, in the Canneregio district. Venice is split up into 6 districts called sestiere: Cannaregio, Dorsoduro, San Polo, San Marco, Santa Croce and Castello.

 

The hotel was great for our short stay; very simple, clean and in a central and lively area. It has a courtyard garden area to chill after walking, have breakfast or sip on a drink pre or post dinner. 

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Where & What We Ate

Known for cicchetti, or small plates, you will not be disappointed with the range of food here. Bacari (small wine bars) are the best places to stop for a glass of wine or venetian spritz, and try various cicchetti. ​

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Casual Locales

Osteria al Squero 

All'Arco Venezia 

Al Mercà

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Restaurants 

Vini da Gigio 

Osteria all Bifora 

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Bars 

Oficina Ormesini

Il Salotto di San Marco 

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Gelato

Gelatoteca Suso

Gelato di Natura 

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What We Did

There are so many incredible things to see, most of our favorite days were spent walking and admiring the architecture. We took a half day boat trip to nearby Murano (known for blown glass) and Burano (known for their colorful houses & lace) which I definitely recommend if you have more than 2 days. We did not visit any museums, so those will have to be next time. 

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Our top spots

Ponte di Rialto 
Piazza San Marco

Basilica San Marco (and visit inside!) 

San Marco Campanile 
Palazzo Ducale

Ponte dei Sospiri

Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute
Ghetto Ebraico
Ponte Chiodo
Libreria Acqua Alta

See the city via vaporetto

 

By Boat 

Murano

Burano 

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