Introduction to Venice Travel

There is no city quite like Venice. It is a magical place full of mystery and wonder. From the majestic Grand Canal to the hidden smaller waterways, there is beauty around every corner. Over 400 bridges cross the canals of Venice, eventually leading you to magnificent Piazza San Marco, dominated by the basilica of the same name, its campanile (belltower) and the stunning Palazzo Ducale.

Most of your days in Venice are spent simply wandering and admiring this unique city but if you feel like taking to the water, the outer islands hold many charms. From colorful Burano to the glass blowers of Murano, these islands each have their own unique history, stories and culture.

What to see in Venice

All journeys to Venice should start with a ride down the Grand Canal. Gliding past the elegant palazzi and watching the gondolas, service boats and water taxis zip across the water is one of the world’s must-do experiences.

piazza san marco venice

PIAZZA SAN MARCO

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BASILICA DI SAN MARCO

palazzo ducale venice

PALAZZO DUCALE

rialto bridge venice

RIALTO BRIDGE

grand canal venice

GRAND CANAL

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GONDOLA RIDE

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BRIDGE OF SIGHS

burano

BURANO

untold venice

Untold Venice

Having experienced the majestic beauty of Venice’s main attractions, you will be doubly rewarded by letting your senses take you meandering along its narrow canals and laneways.

Read more about the ciyt’s off-the-beaten-path gems in Untold Venice.

What to Eat and Drink in Venice

Our guide below lists some of the must-try food and drinks for any trip to Venice. You can also listen to our podcast episodes on Venice Dishes to try and Cicchetti guide for more tasty ideas for your trip.

READ: DELICIOUS VENETIAN FOOD TO TRY AND WHERE TO TRY IT

Venice Accommodation Guide

Choose the best area and hotel for your trip with our guide to the best accommodation and hotels in Venice. Whether you want to stay on the Grand Canal, close to Piazza San Marco or in a quiet neighborhood like Castello, there is a perfect hotel to suit your trip.

READ: WHERE TO STAY IN VENICE

READ: Our guide to the Best hotels in Venice.

Venice Tourist Tax

Starting on specific days in April 2024 the city will collect a fee to enter the city aimed at the large number of day-trippers who put pressure on the city’s delicate infrastructure. 

This new requirement will apply for ALL visitors. Read more about the Venice Tourist Tax.

new venice tourist tax

Venice Tours and Tickets

Information on skip-the-line tickets for San Marco and the Palazzo Ducale, the best tours of the city and unique activities that are sure to make your trip memorable.

Click HERE FOR MORE TOURS AND TICKETS IN VENICE

READ: Our guide to Buying tickets and tours for the Doge’s Palace.

Need itinerary ideas for Venice?

venice travel guide burano

Read our 3 day itinerary with ideas on how to see the historic center, Doges Palace, visiting Burano and other lagoon islands and taking a Gondola trip as well as visiting some lesser known sites.

READ: 3 DAY VENICE ITINERARY

LISTEN: To our podcast on Why and how to spend at least 3 days in Venice.

Day Trips from Venice

venice travel guide dolomites

Within a short distance of Venice you can visit historic cities, wineries, mountains and more.

READ: OUR VENICE DAY TRIPS GUIDE

Getting to Venice from Rome

From high-speed trains, to flying and even renting a car and enjoying a leisurely drive through beautiful scenery, there are a variety of options to get you to Venice from the capital city of Rome.

Get from Rome to Venice

Looking for Venice airport arrivals information? Click here.

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