If there is one place in Italy that I’d say you NEED to visit that is unlike any place I’ve ever been… it’s Venice. I’ve been lucky enough to visit more than once and it never seizes to amaze me.
Venice is rustic and it feels like the buildings could fall into the water at any second… but that’s what makes it so incredibly special and unique. It feels like you’re walking through a movie set, except it’s real. And who knows for how much longer?
So here are my top tips for Venice, straight from our latest trip!
General Thoughts
Venice is truly one-of-a-kind… no cars, no taxis (unless you count the water kind), just winding canals, cobblestone streets, and boats everywhere. Honestly, it’s one of the most memorable experiences you’ll ever have.
If you’re going to splurge on one thing in Venice, make it boat transportation. Trust me, it’s worth it. You’ll want to hire a driver right when you arrive, ask how much they’d charge for your whole trip. Honestly, I would spend more on this than your hotel, because you’ll barely be in your room anyway.
Speaking of arrival… do yourself a favour and book a private water taxi from the airport. You’ll feel like George and Amal Clooney, zipping across the water. It’s so fun and sets the tone for the whole trip.
Places to Stay
We’ve stayed in a couple of different spots over the years, but if I had to recommend one hotel, it would be the St. Regis Venice. It’s a pricier option for sure, but Justin’s dad treated us to a stay there, and let me tell you… the purple umbrellas, the most gorgeous brunch, and views make you feel like you’ve won the lottery.
This time, though, we tried Hotel Papadopoli—an option that’s part of the Fairmont family, meaning that we were able to use our points. It’s not on the Grand Canal, but it’s on the sweetest little street with a bar and restaurant just downstairs. It’s super quiet and charming!
I know both these hotels are on the more expensive side, but booking.com has TONS of more affordable options, just make sure to read the reviews!
Food & Drinks
Full honesty here… Venice isn’t really known for its food. We’ve never found that perfect spot that checks all the boxes for vibe and great food on the water. But one thing you have to try is Cicchetti—tiny Venetian sandwiches that are so good. There was a great little restaurant under our hotel, so my dad and I would pop down to the bar below our hotel for a Spritz and cicchetti; those were some of my favourite moments of our trip.
Still on my restaurant bucket list? Raffaele, a super cool spot that’s all over Instagram!
Activities & Culture
Book a Private Boat Tour
If you want to get the best photos and the full experience, book a private boat tour. Pro tip: go around 6 or 7 PM, just before sunset. It’s absolutely magical.
And YES—you have to do the gondola ride with the guy in the striped shirt. It’s touristy, it’s overpriced, but it’s a must. Trust me on this!
Doge’s Palace & Basilica
These are the Venetian classics that never disappoint. The history here is incredible, and the buildings are beyond beautiful.
Visit Burano & Murano
Burano – Famous for its lace and the most colourful little houses you’ve ever seen.
Murano – Known for its glassware (careful though, the salespeople are very convincing… I almost came home with a $5,000 vase 😅).
Just a heads up—a lot of what’s sold in the touristy areas are knockoffs, so shop wisely!
Final Thoughts
In all honesty, you only need about 1-2 days in Venice. It’s small and it’s packed with tourists… but I wouldn’t skip it for the world.
It’s the kind of place that sticks with you long after you’re gone, with its worn-down buildings, historic canals, and that feeling of stepping back in time. My parents even said it was their favourite stop in Italy… and I totally understand why.
Another thing on my bucket list is to one day stay at the Gritti Palace – my friends Logan and Anthony highly recommend this place!
Here’s a Google Map of my Venice favourites to help you plan your own Italian getaway!
In case you missed them, be sure to check out my blogs on Rome and Florence! I hope these travel tips help you plan your own trip, let me know if you have any questions!
xo
Jilly
