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Daria, Product Manager

"Venice has two sides - the amazing tourist areas of Rialto Bridge, Piazza San Marco and the Bridge of Sighs but there are also the magical back alleys. Lose yourself in the winding canals and alleys hidden behind the main sights. Try out Venice’s 'bacari', tiny neighbourhood bars that serve the city’s tastiest food and wine, these offer great value for money with a taste of authentic Venice!"

Venice at a glance

The whole city of Venice is listed as a World Heritage site, making it unlike any other city break destination you can imagine. The maze of canals with their candy striped boat moorings, ornate architecture, and perfectly arched bridges are picture perfect. The city is rich in history, you’ll find a vast collection of museums, many churches and countless architectural delights all housed within the group of 118 islands.

Just as famous as the waterways are the narrow streets and alley ways that zig zag the islands, many people say that their favourite part of a trip to Venice is getting lost and coming upon a hidden restaurant or café where a coffee or lunch can be taken.

It’s important that the land marks are ticked off however; St Mark’s Square, a gondola ride along the Grand Canal, Rialto Bridge, visit Murano to see the glass blowing and Burano for the lace making and brightly coloured houses.

Things to do in Venice

  • St Mark’s Square: There is a constant buzz from alfresco cafes, live music, visitors and pigeons alike.
  • Basilica de San Marco: The stunning mosaics, intricate architecture and medieval masterpieces make this church truly special.
  • Rialto Markets: An essential stop for foodies with incredible produce stands and fishmongers.
  • Gondola Rides: An enjoyable, romantic and unique way of seeing the city.
  • Peggy Guggenheim Collection: A huge collection of modern art, featuring avant-garde works by over 300 artists.
  • Boutique del Gelato: Considered by locals to serve the best ice cream in Venice, the constant queues are worth the wait.
  • Bridge of Sighs: An iconic image of Venice, it is said that one could hear the sighs of the condemned as they were being led to prison.
  • Palazzo Ducale: On St Mark’s Square, this historical palace boasts great views, architecture and fine paintings.
  • Do Mori Restaurant: Over 500 years old and Venice’s oldest stand up bar. Enjoy an aperitivo and a traditional bar snack.

Getting around

Venice is perfect for visitors who want to explore by foot, the charm of the marrow streets and stunning bridges is best experienced by pedestrians. Alternatively, in true Venetian style, travel by gondola or vaporetti (public water bus). Many hotels have their own jetties and launches served by private water taxis, but please note that during high tides, the transfer will be to the nearest accessible pier and a short walk to the hotel may be required.

Dining in Venice

There are so many places to eat in Venice, food is a huge part of the city lifestyle. Where possible avoid the eateries in the main tourist locations and seek out advice from locals or guidebooks to truly enjoy the local cuisine.

Of course water is such a vital part of a trip to Venice, so it follows that excellent fresh seafood dishes can be found on most menus in in the city. Fresh local dishes including risotto, polenta and gnocchi will taste so much better than they do at home.

Must-try local dishes:

  • Tramezzini - triangular, white bread sandwiches with a choice of fillings including meats, cheeses and vegetables
  • Cicchetti - small, snack dishes such as cooked meats, seafood, croutons and savoury pastries served both hot and cold
  • Gelato

Osprey Holidays top tips

A gondola ride is a real treat but should you have overspent in the lovely shops and cafés, just hop on the No.1 vaporetto (public water bus) and admire the wonderful palaces on the world's most picturesque main street, the Grand Canal.

 

 

 

Important information
Languages Italian
Currency Euro
Visa Information No visa required for UK citizens
Average temperatures

(monthly highs °C)

Interesting facts

A great way to tour the Grand Canal is by vaporetto - a 230 seat passenger boat which travels along Venice's main waterways.

Distance from airports
Venice Marco Polo 8km
Railway stations
Venezia Santa Lucia

Small Group Walking Tour & Gondola Ride 

Take in all the top sights on this guided walking tour, which begins near the Rialto Bridge. You then head to Cannaregio to discover Casa di Marco Polo before continuing on to St Mark’s Square to admire St Mark’s Basilica. Finish your tour with a leisurely Gondola ride along the Grand Canal – the perfect introduction to this magnificent city! 

Murano & Burano

On this small group tour you will visit the artisan islands of Murano and Burano. First stop is Murano, famous for its production of beautiful coloured glass. Stop here to visit one of the glass factories before taking a short cruise to the pretty island of Burano, known for its lace and fishermen’s houses painted in bright colours. Watch local women in a traditional workshop create delicate lace before enjoying some free time to explore the island.

St Mark's Basilica and Doge's Palace

Enjoy fast-track access to two of Venice’s most important buildings. At Doge’s Palace your expert guide will share fascinating insight into the history of the building while you admire the splendid decoration and famous works of art that adorn the walls. Continue across St Mark's Square to see the majestic St Mark’s Basilica with its beautiful altar and Golden Pall, a stunning example of Byzantine art.

Cicchetti & Wine Private Food Tour

Your local guide will meet you at your hotel and you’ll enjoy a gastronomic tour of some of the best local Cicchetti bars in Venice. Learn about the culture of Cicchetti (Venetian tapas) as you enjoy a selection of six dishes such as baccala mantecato, polpette, tramezzini and sarde in saor along with a glass or two of local wine or ‘Ombra’. The tour can be tailored to meet your own requirements. 

We would be happy to arrange an excursion for you. To discuss options with a member of our knowledgeable team or to book, please contact us on 0131 243 8098.