Venice is one of Europe’s most unique cities, built upon a system of canals rathet than roads, every facet of Venetian life and culture is shaped by this unique consideration. At its best, Venice is a unique and romantic location, inspired by cultures and traditions centuries old. At its worst, Venice can be crowded, smelly and overly commercialised.
Visiting Venice and Italy
Whilst Venice is an island city, getting into the city does not present a problem, whether coming in via land or air. Venice is connected to the rest of Italy and Europe via a high speed rail network, there are also frequent bus connections to destinations which are closer in proximity. Fortunately, a series of causeways sees that travellers entering or departing the city can do so from the depots on the main island.
If travelling to Venice via air, then consider that the city’s airports are further away and located off the islands of the lagoon. The city’s airports are connected by frequent shuttle buses which bring travellers to the main bus station on the island.
Not surprising, the absence of a great deal of land in Venice sees that luxury hotels are preferred to budget hotels. As such, hotels and accommodation tends to be more expensive than in other European cities. For a luxury hotel, consider the Hotel Danieli Venice or the Bauer Hotel Venice.
Things to do in Venice
- The Piazza San Marco – This is Venice’s central square or Piazza. The Piazza San Marco is host to both the Basilica Di San Marco and the tower known as the Campanile. The Campanile offers possibly the best views of the city however, expect long lines and waiting times during peak periods
- Accademia – This is the place to go if one wishes to see a true slice of Venetian life. This area of the city is notably less touristy than other areas and is filled with locals going about their daily business. The “streets” of the Accademia are small and quaint, this is the place to buy local crafts and produce of superior quality to those found in other more touristy areas of the city.
- The Rialto Bridge – One of the famous icons of the Grand Canal, not only is the Rialto Bridge a practical crossing point. The Rialto Bridge is also a centre of shopping, shops on the bridge sell a variety of tourist gifts and food stuffs.
- The Venetian Lagoon – If visiting Venice then consider exploring the minor islands of the Lagoon. The minor islands are a chance to get away from the dense crowds of the main islands. Murano an outlying island is famous for its glass production, whilst a visit to the Lido offers one the chance to experience a traditional sandy beach.
- Dinner on the Grand Canal – No trip to Venice is complete without at least on candle lit dinner on the Grand Canal. There are numerous restaurants with elegant views of the Grand Canal located around the Rialto Bridge. Whilst this is a must do experience, it can feel a little touristy and good weather is certainly a prerequisite for a positive experience.
- Gondola Rides – Another touristy option, yet few would consider a trip to the city of Venice complete without a gondola ride. To obtain the best rates, pre-book and make sure that a rate is agreed before taking a ride. This will avoid any unpleasant surprises at the end of the ride.
Sources:
- Michelin. 2003. The Green Guide Venice. Michelin Travel Publications.
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Frank Smith - Frank Smith currently works as an full time industry analyst for a well known construction company in Lincolnshire. In his spare time, ...
