Venice, the city of love. This ancient city with its famous waterways, amazing food and stunning architecture has something for every traveller. Whether you are newlyweds on your honeymoon or friends exploring for a weekend, you can not fail but to be impressed with this amazing place.
This tiny city is jam packed full of things to do and see. Here’re our three top tips for ensuring you get the most out of your stay if you’ve only got a few days to spend here.
Image Source: Artur Staszewski
- Accommodation
Taking time researching accommodation before you go can really pay off. You’ve only got a few days to spend here so make sure you are in the centre of the city so you don’t waste time trekking back and forward.
City center hotels do tend to be more expensive, but there are some bargains to be had, particularly if you are travelling out of season. Venice is full of twisty little streets so opting for a hotel on the canal or near one of the Vaporetto stops is a great way to save time trying to navigate to your hotel. If you fancy an authentic experience (and you are arriving in daylight), a hotel off the beaten track will often save you money. Venere hotels is a great place to weigh up all your options.
Image Source: Roberto Taddeo
- Exploring
To really experience Venice you need comfy shoes and time to explore. It’s twisting narrow streets hide a wealth of historic architecture and authentic Venetian restaurants that are a delight just to happen upon. Don’t worry about wasting time, this is how you really see and experience Venice. But ditch the map, it’ll only end up confusing you.
When your feet do get tired take to a gondola. They have a reputation for ripping tourists off, but they are mostly very reasonable and are the best way to see the city from the canals. Make sure you take your ride in the daylight to get the most of it. Venice is beautiful once night falls but you can experience the full effects from the back of the Vaporetto for a fraction of the cost.
Image Source: Trish Hartmann
- Tourist Attractions
No matter how short your trip, you can’t visit Venice without seeing some of the tourist attractions. The Palazzo Ducale, the Opera House and St. Marks Basilica are all essentials but be warned; they do get very crowded.
Don’t waste your precious hours queuing to get a glimpse past someone’s shoulder. Wait until the evening, around five or six, to visit these sights. The crowds will have gone and you will be able to take your time exploring.
The Italian’s are night owls so the evening will be in full swing by the time you have had a good look around the city’s most famous attractions. The food in Venice is authentic Italian cuisine (with some unique Venetian twists, of course) but don’t stop to eat near the tourist attractions. Opt for the local gems hidden away in the twisting alleys. The waiters might not know much English, but the atmosphere will be fantastic, the price will be reasonable and the food will be second to none.