Venice (Italy) City Breaks

Things to Do in Venice: A City Break Adventure

Venice, the enchanting city of canals, offers a plethora of activities for visitors on a city break. From unique experiences to cultural immersions, here’s a comprehensive guide to 20 exciting things to do in Venice, including options for wet weather.

1. Gondola Ride with Live Commentary

Explore the canals of Venice aboard a gondola while enjoying live commentary from your guide. This classic Venetian experience allows you to glide down narrow waterways and along the Grand Canal, offering a unique perspective of the city.

2. Private Boat Tour to Murano and Burano

Embark on a guided tour by private boat to the islands of Murano and Burano. Witness the famous glassblowing on Murano and admire the colourful houses of Burano, known for its lace-making tradition.

3. Unusual Sights Walking Tour

Discover Venice’s hidden gems with an unusual sights walking tour. This experience takes you off the beaten path to explore lesser-known areas of the city, revealing its secrets and local lore.

4. Venetian Mask-Making Workshop

Participate in a traditional Venetian mask-making workshop. Learn the techniques from local artisans and create your own unique mask to take home as a souvenir.

5. Kayak Discovery Tour in the Venetian Lagoon

Join a local guide for a kayak adventure in the Venetian Lagoon. This 4-hour tour offers a unique perspective of Venice and its surrounding waters, allowing you to explore hidden corners of the city.

6. Bike Tour on Sant’Erasmo Island with Honey Tasting

Venture to Sant’Erasmo Island for a bike tour combined with honey tasting. This 4-hour experience allows you to explore the “garden of Venice” and sample local produce.

7. Rialto Market Tour and Cooking Class

Experience Venetian cuisine firsthand with a tour of the Rialto Market followed by a cooking class. Learn to prepare traditional dishes using fresh, local ingredients.

8. Glass Lampwork Workshop in Murano

Visit the island of Murano for a glass lampwork workshop. Under the guidance of expert artisans, create your own glass masterpiece using traditional techniques.

9. Venetian Rowing Lesson

Try your hand at Venetian-style rowing with a lesson from a local instructor. Learn the unique technique used to navigate Venice’s canals and lagoon.

10. Wine Tasting at a Local Bacaro

Indulge in a prosecco tasting experience at a traditional Venetian bacaro (wine bar). Sample local wines and learn about Venetian wine culture from a knowledgeable guide.

11. Nighttime Ghost Tour

Explore Venice’s spooky side with a nighttime ghost tour. Hear tales of legends, ghosts, and ghouls as you wander through dimly lit alleys and squares.

12. Venetian Cicchetti and Wine Tour

Embark on a culinary adventure sampling cicchetti, Venetian-style tapas, paired with local wines. Visit several bacari (wine bars) and discover the city’s food culture.

13. Treasure Hunt for Adults or Teenagers

Participate in a city-wide treasure hunt designed for adults or teenagers. This interactive experience takes you through Venice’s hidden gems, combining sightseeing with puzzle-solving.

14. Sunset Sailing Trip in the Lagoon

End your day with a relaxing sunset sailing trip in the Venetian Lagoon. Enjoy stunning views of Venice and its surrounding islands as the sun dips below the horizon.

15. Venetian Palazzo Concert

Attend a classical music concert in a historic Venetian palazzo. Experience the grandeur of Venetian architecture while enjoying world-class performances.

16. Lido Island Bike Tour

Explore the Lido, Venice’s beach island, on a guided bike tour. Discover the island’s history, architecture, and natural beauty on this 4.5-hour excursion.

17. Venetian Artisan Workshop Tour

Visit the workshops of traditional Venetian artisans. Learn about centuries-old crafts such as gondola making, textile weaving, and glass blowing.

18. Venetian Aperitivo Boat Tour

Enjoy a traditional Venetian aperitivo while cruising the canals on a private boat. Sample local drinks and snacks as you take in the city’s evening atmosphere.

19. Photography Tour of Hidden Venice

Join a professional photographer for a tour of Venice’s most photogenic hidden spots. Learn photography tips and tricks while capturing the city’s unique beauty.

20. Venetian Carnival Mask Parade

If visiting during Carnival season, participate in a masked parade through the streets of Venice. Don a traditional costume and mask to fully immerse yourself in this iconic Venetian celebration.

Wet Weather Alternatives

When rain hits Venice, consider these indoor options:

• Visit one of Venice’s many world-class museums, such as the Peggy Guggenheim Collection or the Correr Museum.
• Attend a glass-blowing demonstration in a covered workshop on Murano island.
• Explore the covered Rialto Market and join an indoor cooking class.
• Enjoy a wine tasting session in a cozy Venetian enoteca.
• Attend a classical music concert in a historic venue.
• Visit the Venice Opera House for a backstage tour or performance.

From cultural experiences to adventurous activities, Venice offers something for every type of traveller. Whether you’re seeking culinary delights, artistic pursuits, or simply a unique way to explore the city, these activities will ensure your city break in Venice is unforgettable, rain or shine.

Points of Interest in Venice: A City Break Guide

Venice, a city renowned for its canals, bridges, and rich history, offers an array of fascinating points of interest for visitors. From grand architectural masterpieces to tranquil gardens, here are 20 must-see places that showcase the beauty and culture of this unique city.

1. St Mark’s Basilica

One of Venice’s most iconic landmarks, St Mark’s Basilica is a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture. Known as the “Church of Gold” for its opulent mosaics and gilded domes, the basilica is located in St Mark’s Square. Its interior features intricate artwork and relics, including the Pala d’Oro, a stunning golden altarpiece.

2. Doge’s Palace

The Doge’s Palace is a Gothic architectural gem that once served as the residence of the Doge and the centre of Venetian government. Visitors can explore its grand halls, admire artwork by Venetian masters, and cross the famous Bridge of Sighs to see the old prison cells.

3. Rialto Bridge

The Rialto Bridge is the oldest and most famous bridge spanning the Grand Canal. Built in the late 16th century, it offers stunning views of the canal and houses shops selling jewellery, souvenirs, and Venetian glass.

4. St Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco)

Often referred to as “the finest drawing room in Europe,” St Mark’s Square is Venice’s main public square. Surrounded by historic buildings like St Mark’s Basilica and the Procuratie, it’s a lively hub filled with cafes where visitors can enjoy coffee while soaking up the atmosphere.

5. St Mark’s Campanile

The bell tower of St Mark’s Basilica stands at nearly 99 metres tall and offers panoramic views over Venice and its lagoon. Originally built as a watchtower, it remains one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks.

6. Ca’ d’Oro

Known as the “Golden House,” Ca’ d’Oro is a stunning Gothic palace on the Grand Canal. It now houses a museum featuring Renaissance art, sculptures, and tapestries.

7. Peggy Guggenheim Collection

Located in a former palace on the Grand Canal, this modern art museum showcases works by artists such as Picasso, Pollock, and Dalí. The collection reflects Peggy Guggenheim’s passion for avant-garde art.

8. Scuola Grande di San Rocco

This historic building is famous for its collection of paintings by Tintoretto. The Scuola Grande di San Rocco was originally a confraternity hall and remains one of Venice’s artistic treasures.

9. Teatro La Fenice

La Fenice is Venice’s renowned opera house and a symbol of resilience after surviving multiple fires. Visitors can attend performances or take guided tours to admire its ornate interiors.

10. Jewish Ghetto

The Jewish Ghetto in Venice is one of Europe’s oldest Jewish quarters. Visitors can explore synagogues, museums, and kosher restaurants while learning about its rich history.

11. Fondaco dei Tedeschi

This historic building near the Rialto Bridge has been transformed into a luxury shopping centre with a rooftop terrace offering breathtaking views over Venice.

12. Murano Island

Famous for its glassmaking tradition, Murano Island is home to workshops where visitors can watch artisans create intricate glass pieces. The Glass Museum provides further insight into this centuries-old craft.

13. Burano Island

Known for its brightly coloured houses and lace-making heritage, Burano Island is a photographer’s dream and a peaceful escape from Venice’s bustling centre.

14. Torcello Island

Torcello is one of Venice’s oldest settlements, featuring historic landmarks such as the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta with its stunning mosaics.

15. Giardini della Biennale (Napoleonic Gardens)

These expansive gardens were created during Napoleon’s rule and host parts of the Venice Biennale art exhibition. They offer a tranquil retreat with sculptures scattered throughout.

16. Royal Gardens (Giardini Reali)

Located near St Mark’s Square, these beautifully landscaped gardens provide a peaceful spot to relax amidst lush greenery and fountains.

17. Papadopoli Gardens

Situated near Piazzale Roma, these gardens are perfect for families with their play areas and shaded paths offering respite from the summer heat.

18. Parco delle Rimembranze (Park of Remembrance)

Located on Sant’Elena Island, this peaceful park features tree-lined paths and benches overlooking the lagoon—a perfect spot for quiet reflection or picnics.

19. Ca’ Rezzonico

This grand palace on the Grand Canal houses an impressive collection of 18th-century Venetian art and furniture, offering insight into aristocratic life during that period.

20. Querini Stampalia Foundation

This cultural institution combines art exhibitions with tranquil garden spaces designed by Carlo Scarpa. It’s an ideal destination for those seeking both beauty and serenity.

Venice offers an unparalleled mix of history, art, architecture, and natural beauty that captivates every visitor. Whether exploring its grand palaces or relaxing in its hidden gardens, these points of interest ensure an unforgettable city break experience in this magical floating city.

Food and Drink in Venice: A Culinary Journey

Venice, the enchanting city of canals, offers a rich tapestry of culinary delights that perfectly complement its stunning backdrop. From traditional Venetian dishes to modern interpretations, Venice’s food scene is sure to tantalize the taste buds of any visitor on a city break.

Traditional Venetian Cuisine

Venetian cuisine is deeply rooted in the city’s maritime history and its unique lagoon environment. Some must-try traditional dishes include:

Bigoli in salsa

A hearty pasta dish made with thick, whole-wheat spaghetti-like noodles served with an anchovy and onion sauce.

Risotto al nero di seppia

A striking black risotto coloured and flavoured with cuttlefish ink, showcasing Venice’s love for seafood.

Sarde in saor

A sweet and sour dish of fried sardines marinated with onions, raisins, and pine nuts, reflecting Venice’s history of preserving food for long sea voyages.

Baccalà mantecato

A creamy whipped dish made from dried and salted cod, often served on grilled polenta or bread.

Fegato alla Veneziana

For the more adventurous, this dish of calf’s liver with onions is a true Venetian classic.

Best Restaurants

Venice boasts a diverse restaurant scene catering to various tastes and budgets. Some standout establishments include:

• El Sbarlefo: Known for its excellent baccalà mantecato and other traditional dishes.
• Antiche Carampane: A hidden gem offering fresh seafood and authentic Venetian cuisine.
• Osteria Al Squero: Popular for its cicchetti (Venetian tapas) and relaxed atmosphere.

Average Prices

• Average price of a pint: Around €5-7
• Average price of a meal for two: Approximately €60-80 in a mid-range restaurant

Atmosphere and Dining Culture

Dining in Venice is a leisurely affair, with meals often stretching for hours, especially in the evening. Many restaurants feature outdoor seating, allowing diners to soak in the city’s vibrant atmosphere and stunning views.

Cicchetti Culture

No visit to Venice is complete without experiencing the cicchetti culture. These small snacks, similar to Spanish tapas, are typically enjoyed with a glass of wine in local bacari (wine bars). Popular cicchetti include crostini topped with various ingredients, fried seafood, and small portions of traditional dishes.

Wine Tasting

Venice and the surrounding Veneto region are renowned for their wines. Visitors can enjoy wine tasting experiences in local enotecas or join guided tours to explore the city’s hidden wine bars. Popular local wines include Prosecco, Valpolicella, and Amarone.

Beer Tasting

While not as famous as its wine scene, Venice does offer opportunities for beer enthusiasts. Craft beer bars are becoming more common, offering both Italian and international craft beers.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Although traditional Venetian cuisine is heavy on seafood and meat, Venice has embraced the growing demand for plant-based options. Vegetarians and vegans can find suitable dishes in many restaurants, with some establishments specializing in vegetarian and vegan cuisine.

Useful Information for Visitors

• Aperitivo: Many bars offer aperitivo in the early evening, where drinks are served with complimentary snacks.
• Coffee culture: Enjoy a morning espresso standing at a bar counter like a local.
• Water: Venice’s tap water is safe to drink, reducing the need for bottled water.
• Tipping: While not obligatory, a 10% tip for good service is appreciated in restaurants.
• Market visits: For a true taste of local life, visit the Rialto Market in the morning to see the fresh produce that forms the backbone of Venetian cuisine.

From traditional cicchetti bars to high-end restaurants, Venice offers a gastronomic adventure that will enhance any city break. Whether you’re savoring fresh seafood by the canal, enjoying a glass of Prosecco in a hidden bacaro, or indulging in a scoop of gelato while strolling through narrow alleys, Venice promises a culinary experience as unforgettable as its iconic landscapes.

Culture in Venice: A City Break Experience

Venice, the enchanting city of canals, offers visitors a rich tapestry of culture, history, and traditions. This vibrant Italian city, with its unique blend of ancient and contemporary elements, provides an unforgettable experience for those on a city break.

Traditional Dress

Venetian traditional dress reflects the city’s rich cultural heritage and its historical significance as a fashion capital. While not worn in everyday life, these costumes come alive during special events and festivals, particularly the famous Venice Carnival.

Carnival Costumes

The Venice Carnival is renowned for its elaborate costumes that harken back to the city’s opulent past. These outfits often feature:

• Richly decorated garments inspired by Renaissance fashion
• Corsets, long flared skirts, and puffed sleeves for women
• Luxurious fabrics such as silk, velvet, and brocade
• Intricate embroidery and embellishments, sometimes adorned with precious stones

Masks

An integral part of Venetian costume tradition, masks played a significant role in the city’s history, allowing wearers to move about anonymously. Popular mask styles include:

• Bauta: A square-jawed mask often worn with a black cloak and tricorn hat
• Moretta: An oval mask traditionally worn by women
• Medico della Peste: The distinctive plague doctor mask with a long beak

Art and Architecture

Venice’s art scene is a captivating mix of historical masterpieces and contemporary creativity. The city itself is a living museum, with its stunning architecture and countless art treasures.

Architectural Marvels

• Gothic palaces lining the Grand Canal
• Byzantine influences in structures like St. Mark’s Basilica
• Renaissance and Baroque churches dotting the cityscape

Art Museums and Galleries

• The Peggy Guggenheim Collection for modern art enthusiasts
• Gallerie dell’Accademia for classical Venetian paintings
• Contemporary art exhibitions during the Venice Biennale

The Venetian Vibe

Venice exudes a unique atmosphere that blends historical grandeur with a laid-back Mediterranean lifestyle. The city’s heart beats along its canals and narrow streets, where locals and visitors alike soak in the timeless beauty.

Local Lifestyle

Venetians, known as ‘Veneziani’, embrace a lifestyle that balances work and leisure. Here’s a glimpse into local life:

• Mornings often start with coffee at one of the many cafés
• Locals shop at the bustling Rialto Market for fresh produce
• Evenings are spent enjoying aperitivo in bacari (wine bars)
• Weekends might include trips to the beach on the Lido

Traditions and Customs

Venice is steeped in traditions that visitors can observe and sometimes participate in:

• Carnival celebrations in February, featuring masked parades and balls
• The Festa del Redentore in July, with fireworks and boat parties
• The Historical Regatta in September, showcasing traditional Venetian rowing

Useful Information for Visitors

• Greetings: Venetians typically greet with a handshake. Close friends may kiss on both cheeks.
• Dining: Lunch is usually served from 12:30 to 2:30 PM, and dinner from 7:30 to 10:00 PM.
• Dress Code: While casual attire is acceptable, Venetians tend to dress smartly, especially for evening outings.
• Etiquette: When entering shops or restaurants, it’s polite to greet with “Buongiorno” (Good day) or “Buonasera” (Good evening).
• Language: While many Venetians speak English, learning a few Italian phrases is appreciated.

Venice’s unique culture, blending ancient traditions with modern life, offers visitors an enriching and memorable city break experience. From its elaborate carnival costumes to its world-renowned art and architecture, Venice invites travellers to immerse themselves in a world where history and beauty intertwine at every turn.

Transport to Venice from the UK

Venice, the enchanting city of canals, is a popular destination for UK travellers. Getting to Venice from various UK cities is relatively straightforward, with several transport options available.

Flights to Venice

Flying is the most convenient and quickest way to reach Venice from the UK. Direct flights are available from several major UK airports.

Flight times from UK cities:

• London to Venice: Approximately 2 hours 5 minutes
• Birmingham to Venice: Around 2 hours 15 minutes
• Manchester to Venice: About 2 hours 30 minutes

Airlines such as British Airways, easyJet, and Ryanair operate regular flights to Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE) from these UK cities. Flight schedules may vary depending on the season, with more frequent services during summer months.

Train Travel

For those who prefer a scenic route, train travel is an option, albeit a longer one. The journey involves taking the Eurostar from London to Paris, then connecting to Milan, and finally to Venice. The entire trip can take around 14 hours 38 minutes.

Bus Travel

Budget-conscious travellers might consider bus travel. Companies like FlixBus offer services from London to Venice, with a journey time of approximately 28 hours 13 minutes. While this is the longest option, it can be the most economical.

Transport in Venice

Venice’s unique geography means that its public transport system is primarily water-based, offering visitors a novel way to explore the city.

Vaporetto (Water Bus)

The vaporetto is Venice’s primary mode of public transport. These water buses travel along the Grand Canal and to nearby islands.

Key points:

• Single journey tickets cost €9.50 as of February 2025
• Tickets are valid for 75 minutes
• Day passes and multi-day passes are available for more cost-effective travel

Alilaguna

Alilaguna boats connect Venice Marco Polo Airport to various stops in the city, including St. Mark’s Square and the Rialto. The journey takes between 30 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes, depending on the destination.

Water Taxis

For a more luxurious option, water taxis are available. While significantly more expensive than vaporetti, they offer a faster and more private mode of transport.

Trams

Venice has one tram line, T1, which operates on the mainland part of the city (Mestre). A single ticket costs €1.50 and is valid for 75 minutes.

Buses

Buses serve the mainland areas of Venice and the island of Lido. The ticket system is integrated with the trams, with single tickets costing €1.50.

Walking

Venice is a highly walkable city, and many visitors find that exploring on foot is the best way to discover its hidden gems.

Costs and Availability

• Vaporetto day passes cost around €20 as of February 2025
• Multi-day passes are available for longer stays
• Trams and buses run frequently, with services every 10-15 minutes during the day
• Water taxis, while always available, are significantly more expensive than public transport options

Tips for Travellers

• Purchase a travel card if staying for several days to save on transport costs
• Consider booking airport transfers in advance during peak season
• Remember to validate your ticket before boarding public transport to avoid fines
• Check vaporetto schedules in advance, as they can vary depending on the time of day and season

Venice’s unique transport system adds to the city’s charm and offers visitors a memorable way to explore. Whether you’re gliding down the Grand Canal on a vaporetto or strolling through narrow alleys, getting around Venice is an integral part of the city break experience.

Essential Information for a Venice City Break

Venice, the enchanting city of canals, offers a unique experience for visitors. Here’s important information to help you plan your city break to this iconic Italian destination.

Basic Facts

Currency

The currency used in Venice is the Euro (€).

Languages Spoken

The primary language is Italian. However, due to the city’s popularity with tourists, English is widely spoken in most tourist areas.

Time Difference

Venice is in the Central European Time Zone (CET), which is typically 1 hour ahead of GMT. During daylight saving time (late March to late October), it’s 2 hours ahead of GMT.

Distance from Nearest Airport

Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE) is the closest airport, located approximately 14 kilometres from the city centre2.

Climate and Seasons

Venice experiences a humid subtropical climate. Here are average temperatures throughout the seasons:

• Spring (March-May): 9°C to 20°C
• Summer (June-August): 18°C to 28°C
• Autumn (September-November): 10°C to 21°C
• Winter (December-February): 3°C to 10°C

City Area and Layout

Venice covers an area of approximately 420 square kilometres3. However, the historic centre (centro storico) that most tourists explore is much smaller, covering about 7.06 square kilometres9.

The city consists of 118 small islands connected by roughly 440 bridges36. This unique layout makes Venice a highly walkable city, with many hidden gems to discover in its maze of narrow streets and canals.

Areas to Be Cautious

While Venice is generally safe, it’s advisable to be cautious in crowded tourist areas like St. Mark’s Square and the Rialto Bridge, where pickpocketing can occur. Also, during high tide (acqua alta), some low-lying areas may flood, so check local forecasts.

Accommodation and Dining

Venice offers a wide range of options for visitors:

• Number of Hotels: Over 400 hotels across various price ranges
• Number of Restaurants: Approximately 1,500 restaurants
• Number of Bars: Around 500 bars and cafes

Safety and Crime Rate

Venice is considered a safe city for tourists. The crime rate is relatively low compared to other major European cities. However, as with any popular tourist destination, petty theft can occur, so remain vigilant with your belongings.

Additional Important Information

• Transportation: The primary mode of public transport is the vaporetto (water bus). Walking is also a great way to explore the city.
• Acqua Alta: Be prepared for potential flooding, especially in autumn and winter. Bring waterproof boots.
• Tourist Tax: Visitors staying overnight must pay a tourist tax, which varies depending on the type of accommodation and season.
• Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly when visiting churches. Swimming in canals is strictly forbidden.
• Gondola Rides: While iconic, gondola rides can be expensive. Consider sharing with other tourists to split the cost.
• Venice Card: Consider purchasing a Venice Card for discounts on public transport and entry to many attractions.

Venice’s unique charm, rich history, and stunning architecture make it a captivating destination for a city break. By keeping this information in mind, you can ensure a more enjoyable and hassle-free visit to this remarkable floating city.