Posts Tagged ‘excursions’
Daria Visits Venice
I was lucky enough to explore the iconic city of Venice and meet some of our lovely new and existing partners. I arrived at Venice Marco Polo Airport early in the morning and took a bus no. 5 to Piazzale Roma and then a Vaporetto (water bus) no. 2 to San Marco. This is the quickest way to get to Venice by public transport, but I’d recommend taking an Alilaguna water bus (blue line) instead. It takes slightly longer, but it’s a direct water bus from the airport to Venice city centre so it’s much more comfortable, especially if you’re travelling with luggage.
I checked-in at the 4-star Hotel Kette where I was treated to a Superior Room with a Canal View. This elegant hotel is in a perfect location and is just a 5 minute walk from St Mark’s Square. It’s situated on a quiet side street, yet it’s still right in the heart of the city with amazing attractions on your doorstep. The interior is decorated in classic Venetian style with dark wood, Murano glass, marble floor and charming, traditional guest rooms. The hotel staff were incredibly friendly and helpful which made my stay all the more special!
After a quick break, I headed out to visit some of our featured hotels. I have to admit that I was slightly concerned about getting lost in the narrow streets and bridges of Venice… but it’s actually a very easy city to get around! Its a lot smaller than I had thought, so it was super easy to wander around.
On day 1 and 2 of my trip, I visited the following hotels:
- 5-star Baglioni Hotel Luna
- 5-star Hotel Metropole
- 4-star Hotel Kette
- 4-star Hotel Monaco & Grand Canal
- 4-star Hotel Ai Reali
- 4-star Splendid Venice – Starhotels Collezione
- 4-star Hotel Savoia & Jolanda
- 3-star Unahotels Hotel Ala Venezia
- 3-star Hotel Firenze
- 3-star Hotel Flora
After the site visits on day 2, I treated myself to some mouthwatering gelatos at Gelateria Paolin dal 1760, and it didn’t disappoint! With outdoor seating, it’s perfect for sunbathing and watching the world go by while you enjoy your lunch or gelato.
In the evening, I strolled along the canals to Ponte dell’Accademia bridge and Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute and watched the sun setting behind the buildings of Venice, it was truly unforgettable.
On day 3, I headed to St Mark’s Square for a guided tour of St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace. A guided tour is a great option to load yourself with historical information you wouldn’t hear otherwise and to bypass the entrance queues. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable and informative and the tour itself was absolutely fantastic.
After the tour, I had a tasty lunch by the Grand Canal, then went back to the hotel to collect my luggage and headed back to the airport after a wonderful adventure.
The city is packed full of charm, I really fell in love with it. From its rich history and beautiful architecture to its picturesque bridges and canals at every turn. My best advice would be to just wander…and no matter which street you go down, you’ll always discover something incredible.
To find out more about my visit to Venice or if you’re interested in a similar trip,
give the team a call on 0131 243 8098 or send us an email.
Must-See Attractions in Europe
Spanish Riding School, Vienna
For something a little different, the Spanish Riding School offer incredible performances named after the country of origin of the Lipizzan (or Lipizzaner), the breed of horse used exclusively at the school. Performances are showcased to the public every month and it’s also possible to watch the horses during morning exercise. Opt for the guided tour if you wish to visit The Stallburg imperial stables, one of Vienna’s most distinguished Renaissance buildings and learn more about the famous stallions.
More on our Vienna City Breaks
Alhambra Palace, Granada
On top of the Sabika hill and situated on the left bank of the river Darro, the magnificent Alhambra Palace overlooks the beautiful city of Granada. The palace was originally constructed in the 13th century by the Nasrid Dynasty and later expanded upon by subsequent rulers. Today, visitors are able to look around the Nasrid Palaces, Alhambra towers, the Palace of Charles V, The Alcazaba, the Royal Baths and Generalife Gardens.
More on our Granada City Breaks
La Sagrada Familia, Barcelona
Designed by world-famous architect Antoni Gaudí, La Sagrada Familia began construction in 1882 and is a work in progress to this day. Embellished with beautiful stained glass windows and renowned for its distinctive architecture and profound symbolism, its not surprising that this magnificent basilica is the most visited attraction in Barcelona.
More on our Barcelona City Breaks
Lake Bled, Ljubljana
A magical place to visit, Lake Bled offers incredibly picturesque views of Slovenia and the Julian Alps which rise to 2,864m high at Mount Triglav. For a great day out, walk around the lake which takes around an hour, and afterwards treat yourself to a tasty Bled cream cake – a local delicacy you just have to try!
More on our Ljubljana City Breaks
The Northern Lights, Reykjavik
An absolute bucket list activity, if you’re lucky enough to see them, the Northern Lights (scientific name Aurora Borealis) can be the highlight of a trip to Reykjavik. From the Blue Lagoon to the Geysirs, there’s no shortage of natural phenomena in this spectacular city. The best time to see the lights are in the winter months between September and April. Northern Lights tours run frequently which take you to the very best places, making a trip to Reykjavik simply unforgettable.
More on our Reykjavik City Breaks
The Eiffel Tower, Paris
A list of must-see’s would not be complete without mentioning The Eiffel Tower. This iconic attraction was built in 1889, initially for the 1889 Exposition Universelle which was a celebration of the 100th anniversary of the French revolution. The tower is the most visited monument in the world, offering magnificent panoramic views of Paris. Watch the tower light up in its daily light show which begins at dusk and sparkles every hour until 11pm.
