HERE ARE SOME OF MY HELPFUL TIPS FOR TRAVELING TO VENICE.
Today, I’m finishing up my posts for our recent Italy vacation. If you missed the first two posts, you can catch up on Part 1: Rome and Part 2: Florence. For this last post, I’ll be sharing some helpful tips for traveling to Venice.
First of all, I can not believe that this literally happened two weeks after we left Venice! Although Venice is used to floods, this recent one was the worst in 10 years. I kept reading up on the news and couldn’t believe how much the weather changed right after we left.
Thankfully, the city is back to normal and the waters have receded. I have to say that Venice is probably one of my most favorite places I have ever seen or visited. From the moment, we stepped out of the train station, it was something out of the movies. It really doesn’t do it justice until you see it yourself. This city is absolutely stunning and fascinating.
When we walked down the steps from the train station, this is what we saw. I couldn’t believe just how beautiful it was. It’s amazing that there are no roads and that the city was literally built on water.
We rode a boat to our hotel. That’s the police!
Picture perfect. I stood up in the back of the boat and had to stand and enjoy the beautiful scenery and feel the cool wind on my face.
So magical!!
Tip 1: Book your hotel in a central location
We stayed at Hotel Bonvecchiati in San Marco. Even though our hotel was 4 stars, it was honestly a bit creepy. I believe most of the hotels in Venice are old but I can’t even tell you how weird and confusing the layout of the hotel was. Our room was like a maze. We literally had to go up the stairs, walk down the hall, walk down the stairs, walk down the hall again and go up a different set of stairs to go to our room. It took a few tries to figure it out but it was really strange.
The room was a tight squeeze. It was comfortable though probably because we were exhausted every night. The hotel was clean and comfortable other than the creep factor.
The bathroom was updated so that was kinda nice. Later on the trip, we discovered the back of the hotel had a totally new renovated modern area. I’m not sure if that area is open but if that option is available, it’s definitely worth checking out.
The most important thing was the hotel breakfast was good so we were happy. Plus, the hotel was in a central location near St. Marks Square.
Tip 2: Go get homemade pasta to-go from Dal Moro’s
This was similar to the Pastascuitto restaurant from Rome. It was a small hole in the wall with different pasta dishes that came in a to-go container. I had the black squid ink pasta which was pretty good. I also recommend the seafood pasta.
Such a beautiful city. That’s all I could say walking around Venice.
We spent two days in Venice and it was a great way to end our Italy vacation.
Happy belated 15 years, babe!
Had the best time with the best people.
There were just too many picture perfect moments.
When in doubt, just get gelato. New city means trying a new flavor.
We were fine not doing the touristy thing and passed on the gondola ride. Since we were taking another boat to a nearby island, we opted not to spend a lot of money on it. It was fun watching everyone ride it though.
Even in Italy, he’s such a gentleman.
Tip 3: Hang out in St. Marks Square
You have to hang out here both during the day and evening because you experience two totally different vibes.
Tip 4: Try the Aperol Spritz!
The Aperol Spritz is a popular drink in Italy so we finally tried it in Venice. It was a warm day so it was super refreshing!
Tip 5: If you buy anything high end, buy it in Italy
When I’m talking about high end, I’m referring to European brands like Prada, Louis Vutton, etc. Even perfume like Jo Malone is less expensive in Europe. Buy perfume and cologne in the airport duty free store because it’s cheaper than in the Italian mall. Remember, you can get your VAT tax back so if you buy a designer bag, you could save hundreds of dollars.
Tip 6: Eat the seafood
Remember, you’re in Venice. That means seafood galore. Here I am about to eat the seafood pizza. I won’t share this restaurant because we thought the food was mediocre.
Always, get the dessert.
Tip 7: Walk around at night along the pier and to St Marks Square
So romantic!
At night in the square, there are live bands playing in front of the cafes. It’s so much fun listening to the bands and hanging out and watching them perform.
The crowds die down considerably in the evenings so it’s so nice to walk around and take in the city. Since we went when the weather was cooler, we didn’t experience too much of the stinky Venice water that people sometimes complain about.
Tip 8: Take a tour into St. Mark’s Basilica
Out of all the cities, I enjoyed this tour the most. I loved learning about the rich history of Venice. The history of Venice started off as a refuge for inhabitants neighboring the lagoon after the collapse of the Roman empire. A city built from fear is now considered one of the most beautiful places in the world.
Again, it’s hard to capture such beauty in photos.
I need a set of those doors! Please and thank you!
You see a mix of Italo-Byzantine architecture and it’s just magical.
Venice is known for glass blowing and so you’ll see these products sold everywhere. It’s cool to see how they are created by a glass master. I always admire people who love and are masters at their craft. Glass masters aren’t taught from schools but it’s a skill and craft that’s passed down from their fathers. Unfortunately, it’s a dying art. The glass pieces of art are usually colorful and quite elaborate.
This glass blowing master was amazing! If you have a chance, I’m sure you can watch one on you-tube.
Traveling with friends can either be a big mistake or the best decision ever. Luckily, the latter rang true with us.
Tip 9: Take a boat ride to Burano Island
We signed up for an excursion that took us on a 45 minute boat ride to Burano Island.
Burano island, located in the Venetian lagoon is made up of brightly painted houses. They are famous for these picturesque homes that are lined up in different hues. They are also known for their handmade lace.
Doesn’t that look like a scene from a movie? The colors were so bold and fun. This little town just makes you feel happy.
Burano is so photogenic! This was our last day in Italy so we made the most of it.
Tip 10: Try the local dishes that are unique to each city
Burano is known for their seafood risotto which is made in a fish broth. Since we had a super late lunch on this day, we devoured the 5 course meal that was served to us in our group tour. I wish I remembered the name of the restaurant but it was delicious. Do your research and always find restaurants on google sharing the ones with the best reviews.
Jimmy is going after it!
We had a couple of hours to walk around to take in Burano and that was enough. There are only about 3,000 inhabitants in Burano.
Too many cute homes to see and use as a backdrop.
Jimmy found his favorite colors. #umich #goblue
Burano is definitely worth visiting and if you travel to Venice, I recommend it for a short day trip.
Last day in Venice means one last gelato.
And one last seafood meal.
You can probably tell by now, we all had the most memorable time in Italy. If you missed the first two posts, you can read about all the tips I shared for Rome and Florence. It’s truly a marvelous country and I’m so grateful we were able to experience it together with some of our favorite people. I’m inspired to make homemade pasta and tiramisu. I’ll let you know how it turns out.
As always, thank you for reading! Here’s another reminder to continue voting every day until December 16 to win a $15,000 room makeover with LaZBoy. Can you believe I left to North Carolina the very next morning after coming home from Italy to compete in the Design Challenge? What a whirlwind!
xoxo,
Let all that you do be done in Love. 1 Corinthians 16:14
Loved all your italy posts. You all are a fashionable group too 🙂
Oh I’m so glad! Thanks so much, Elvira!