Venice is one of the world’s most romantic cities. Imagine glamorous gondola rides, renaissance architecture, incredible restaurants, mouthwatering food, exquisite palaces, soaring basilicas, and some of the worlds most beautiful art, and there you have Venice in a nutshell.
One of the best ways of getting from Venice Marco Polo International airport is by the local a Vaporetto or Water bus. The Vaporetti is Venice’s main public transport system. Before you board, make a note of the line and the direction you are traveling in to ensure you are taking the correct water bus. One-way rides are approximately seven euro. From the airport to the center of Venice costs about 15 euro. The Venice water bus service is run by ACTV, and you can buy tickets at all the boarding points as well as bars and tobacconists. You will need to validate your ticket on the electronic reader before getting on board, and if you don’t, you may incur a hefty fine. The times of the water buses are between 5 am and Midnight after that private water taxis are available.
The Vaporetti are also a great way of exploring some of the other islands around Venice. You can cross and travel the length of the Grand Canal as well as visiting islands such as Giudecca, San Giorgio Maggiore and Murano where the famous Murano glass factory has its location. The Lido which is the place to go if you fancy spending some time on an Italian beach enjoying the warmth of the summer sun.
If you fancy something very romantic, consider taking a private water taxi. These are the only door to door option in Venice. But be prepared to pay for the privilege as a one-way boat costs 120 euro from the airport to the center of Venice. During peak times, it is wise to book ahead as these can be booked up.
The main train station in Venice is called Santa Lucia. If you are arriving this way, you can take a private water taxi to the center for 70 euro or a water bus for 7 euro.
Venice comprises of over 100 islands that are connected by canals and bridges. Venice is completely car-free and because of this one of the best ways of exploring this incredible city is on foot. You will get the best feel of the city by setting off and wandering around the incredible labyrinth of tiny narrow alleyways. Plan on getting lost on many occasions, but this is all part of the adventure of spending time in Venice. When you are walking around Venice, there is an etiquette which entails keeping to the right and to not stop on the bridges especially around the San Marco and The Rialto Districts.
Venice is extremely popular because of it being one of the most beautiful cities on our planet. It is also a UNESCO Heritage site. For these reasons, it can be very busy so the best months to visit are between April and June and September and the end of October. February and March are also wonderful times to visit the city if you don’t mind the cooler temperatures.
If you can’t avoid the peak season, it is essential you make as many of your bookings in advance as possible. We recommend using a company such as https://www.exceptionalvillas.com/venice who will book all of your water transfers, gondola rides, private guides, excursions and restaurant bookings.
If it is your first time to Venice and you like to eat out, it is a good idea to do as much research on the restaurants as possible. Venice has an enormous choice of incredible restaurants and cafes.
If you like to live like a local, then a great option is to choose a Venice Vacation Rental. Villa F Venice is a wonderful option.
Venice has an incredible history with an inspiring number of wonderful sites and attractions. Some of these cultural sites include the Basilica San Marco, The Doge’s Palace, Piazza San Marco, The Rialto, Peggy Guggenheim Collection and Accademia Galleries. One of our top tips to avoid the queues is to book the major attractions and exhibitions online at Veneziaunica in advance.
A cocktail in St Mark’s Square listening to a beautiful orchestra is an amazing experience. The drinks and cocktails are very expensive, but it is a once in a lifetime experience. Soak up the incredible atmosphere and enjoy and relax.
Venice is a safe city, and there is no need to take many precautions other than an odd pickpocket, so it is always wise to leave your valuables at home. The places to be vigilant are at the landing points of the vaporetti and in the markets and stations. Venice is also pretty safe at night, and it is ok to walk around by yourself.
Shopping in Venice is incredible. If you like souvenir shopping, then glass, beads lace and masks are all popular choices. If you are shopping for Murano glass, make sure you go to a shop that provides a certificate on authentication. Fashion shopping is also incredible in Venice. There is everything from top designer shops to small individual boutiques brimming with beautiful Italian brands.