Venice, Italy

Walking and using Water Taxi are the best way to navigate around Venice. A Venice card or the Venice City Pass is a good option which includes access to attractions as well as public transport tickets. Venice, the world’s only pedestrian city, is easily walkable. Absence of cars and bikes makes this a pleasant experience. Use apps like Google Map for information in real time and routes to destinations with water-taxi and connected trains heading out of the city. The Vaporetti (water buses) serves the Canal Grande, the larger canals through Venice and the surrounding islands (Lido, La Guidecca, Murano, Burano, and so on). ACTV runs the vaporetti and other public transport services both in the lagoon and on terra firma. Travel cards are a good deal than single tickets and can be purchased online. Using a Gondola to navigate around Venice is a pleasant (and expensive) option. There are about 400 Gondolas in Venice so getting one may require some wait time during busy season.

San Marco: most luxury hotels in Venice are located here. This area can be crowded but also offers the closest view to Venetian landmarks like Plaza San Marco.

Dorsoduro: the area for art lovers and quieter than San Marco.

San Polo and Santa Croce: best neighborhoods in Venice for local life. Also closer to the train station and transport hub. Keep in mind vehicles and bicycles are not allowed in Venice city proper.

Cannaregio: the quarter for ancient history.

Central Castello: close to many museums.

Murano: this is a different island but well connected by water bus and water taxis to Venice center.

San Marco: The heart of Venice, this area, especially around the iconic Piazza San Marco, offers a mix of upscale restaurants, traditional trattorias, and cafes where you can enjoy a meal with views of historic landmarks.

Cannaregio: One of the less touristy districts, it’s filled with local osterias (traditional Italian eateries) and bacari (Venetian wine bars). The Jewish Ghetto here also offers some delightful kosher eateries.

Castello: A vast and authentic district, you’ll find numerous family-run trattorias serving Venetian classics. Via Garibaldi is a lively street in this area with a range of dining options.

Dorsoduro: Boasting a bohemian vibe, this area, especially around Campo Santa Margherita, is popular for its bacari and chic modern eateries. It’s a favorite spot for both locals and visitors.

San Polo & Santa Croce: These neighboring districts are crisscrossed with narrow alleys and canals, housing many hidden gems. The Rialto Market in San Polo is a must-visit for its vibrant produce and seafood stalls.

Giudecca: This island, separated from the main part of Venice by the Giudecca Canal, offers several waterfront restaurants with splendid views of the city.

Murano, Burano, & Torcello: These islands in the Venetian Lagoon each have their unique charm and dining spots. Murano is famous for its glassmaking, Burano for lace, and Torcello for its historic sites. Seafood, given their location, is a specialty.

While in Venice, be sure to savor dishes like “risotto al nero di seppia” (squid ink risotto), “sarde in saor” (sardines with onions, raisins, and pine nuts), and “fritto misto” (mixed fried seafood). And don’t forget to indulge in a “spritz”, the iconic Venetian aperitif.

St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco): The heart of Venice, this iconic square is home to St. Mark’s Basilica with its stunning golden mosaics, the Campanile bell tower, and the Doge’s Palace. It’s also a prime location for people-watching and enjoying live music from the cafes.

Grand Canal: Venice’s main waterway, lined with beautiful palaces and buildings. Whether you explore it via a gondola ride, vaporetto (water bus), or simply walk along its edges, it’s the lifeblood of the city.

Rialto Bridge (Ponte di Rialto): The oldest and most famous bridge crossing the Grand Canal, it offers a panoramic view of the waterway and is surrounded by bustling markets and shops.

Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale): A gothic masterpiece, this palace was the residence of the Doge and the seat of Venetian government. Its interiors, filled with frescoes and artworks, give a glimpse into the opulence of Venice’s past.

Murano and Burano Islands: Close to Venice, Murano is famous for its glass-making, while Burano is known for lace-making and its brightly colored houses. Both islands offer a quieter, charming respite from the main city.

Bridge of Sighs (Ponte dei Sospiri): This enclosed limestone bridge connects the Doge’s Palace to the New Prison. Legend says lovers will be granted eternal love if they kiss on a gondola at sunset under the Bridge of Sighs as the bells of St. Mark’s Campanile toll.

Ca’ d’Oro (Golden House): A stunning example of Venetian Gothic architecture, this palace-turned-art-gallery sits on the Grand Canal and houses an impressive collection of Renaissance art.

Santa Maria della Salute: This baroque basilica sits majestically at the entrance to the Grand Canal. Built as a thanksgiving for the end of a plague, its stunning architecture and artwork, particularly by Tintoretto and Titian, are highlights.

Teatro La Fenice: One of the most famous opera houses in Italy, La Fenice has seen premieres of several renowned operas and has a rich history. After being destroyed by fire multiple times, it has always risen from the ashes (hence its name, “The Phoenix”). Even if you don’t catch a performance, the guided tours of its opulent interiors are well worth it.