About the region
Travel to Venice
Venice is a unique and charming city built on water. You'll be captivated by its beautiful canals, stunning architecture, and rich history. Stroll through narrow streets, try delicious Italian cuisine, and enjoy unforgettable gondola rides. Don't miss out on this incredible travel experience.
Getting to Venice
Venice is well-connected by air, rail, and road. The Marco Polo International Airport is the nearest airport and can be reached from major cities around the world. Alternatively, you can take a train or bus to Venice from other parts of Italy or Europe. Once you reach Venice, you can explore the city on foot, by water taxi, or by taking a vaporetto (water bus) along the canals.
Alternative and off the beaten track stays and experiences in Venice
Venice is a city full of charm and history, and there are many alternative and off the beaten track stays and experiences that you can enjoy. One of the best ways to experience the city is by staying in one of the many unique accommodations that are available.
One option is to stay in a historic palazzo, which is a type of nobleman's mansion that has been converted into a hotel or bed and breakfast. These palazzos offer a luxurious and authentic Venetian experience, with beautiful interiors, stunning views of the canals, and easy access to the city's main attractions.
Another off the beaten track experience is to explore the lesser-known areas of Venice. While the main tourist sites like St. Mark's Square and the Rialto Bridge are must-sees, there are also many hidden gems to discover. For example, the Dorsoduro district is home to several small art galleries and museums, and the quiet back streets of Cannaregio offer a glimpse into local life.
You can also explore Venice's culinary scene with a food tour that takes you to some of the city's best hidden restaurants and wine bars. You'll get to sample traditional Venetian dishes and wines, and learn about the city's culinary history and traditions.
Finally, another unique experience is to take a private boat tour of the lagoon and its islands. You can visit the picturesque island of Burano, known for its brightly colored houses and lace-making tradition, or the peaceful island of San Francesco del Deserto, which is home to a Franciscan monastery and beautiful gardens. A boat tour also offers the opportunity to see Venice from a different perspective and to appreciate the city's unique architecture and layout.
Top 10 things to do in Venice
- St. Mark's Basilica: Visit this stunning Byzantine church with its gold mosaics and intricate carvings.
- Doge's Palace: Explore this Gothic palace that once served as the seat of government for the Republic of Venice.
- Rialto Bridge: Cross this iconic bridge over the Grand Canal and browse the markets and shops on either side.
- Gondola ride: Take a romantic gondola ride along the canals and under the city's picturesque bridges.
- Murano glass factory: Visit the island of Murano to see traditional glass-blowing techniques and purchase unique glass souvenirs.
- Peggy Guggenheim Collection: Admire modern art in this museum located in the former home of the famous art collector.
- La Fenice: Attend an opera or ballet performance at this historic and elegant theatre.
- Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari: Visit this Gothic church to see works by Titian, Bellini, and other Renaissance artists.
- Campo Santa Margherita: Spend an afternoon at this bustling square filled with cafes, restaurants, and street performers.
- Lido Beach: Take a break from the city and head to Lido Beach, a long stretch of sand on the island of Lido.
The climate of Venice
Venice has a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot summers and cold winters. The average temperature in the summer months (June to August) is around 27°C (81°F), while in winter (December to February), temperatures average around 3-4°C (37-39°F).
Rainfall is evenly distributed throughout the year, with the wettest months being October and November. During the winter months, Venice may experience occasional snowfall, but it is relatively rare.
One of the defining features of Venice's climate is the phenomenon of acqua alta, or high water. This occurs when the tide rises above its normal level and floods the streets and squares of the city. Acqua alta typically occurs between October and March, and it is advisable to bring waterproof shoes or boots during these months.
Overall, Venice's climate is mild and enjoyable throughout much of the year, with the busiest tourist season taking place from May to September.