City Breaks Venice
Enjoy a short break in the enchanting heart of Italy.
Venice, where history, art and romance blend beautifully, is the perfect destination for a quick escape.
Whether you're planning to glide through its famed canals for a weekend or spend a few days exploring its rich artistic heritage, here are some tips to ensure your city break in Venice is unforgettable.
Spend a few days experiencing the best of Venice ...
When to Visit and What to Pack
The ideal times to visit Venice are during spring and autumn when the weather is comfortably mild and the crowds are less overwhelming than in the peak summer months. Pack light but bring versatile clothing; include comfortable walking shoes for exploring the cobblestone streets, a few elegant outfits for evening dining and a light jacket for cooler evenings.
Fun Fact: Venice's Foundation
Venice is built on an archipelago of 118 islands formed by about 150 canals in a shallow lagoon. The buildings are supported by wooden platforms on tightly driven wooden piles made from alder trees, a wood renowned for its water resistance.
Must-See Attractions
No visit to Venice is complete without experiencing its iconic landmarks. The stunning St. Mark's Basilica, the grand Doge's Palace and the bustling Rialto Market are essential visits. Of course, you can't miss a gondola ride through the serene canals to see the city from a unique vantage point. Booking your tours online in advance is highly recommended to avoid long queues.
Italian Cuisine
While in Venice, indulge in local Venetian dishes such as sarde in saor, risotto nero and the beloved tiramisu for dessert. Explore the enchanting cafes that line the smaller canals to taste authentic cicchetti (Venetian tapas) paired with a glass of prosecco. The food markets of Venice, especially the Rialto Market, offer a glimpse into the culinary heart of the city with their vibrant selection of seafood and produce.
Fun Fact: A City of Masks
Venice is famous for its Carnival, a spectacle of elaborate masks and costumes that fill the city with colour and history each year. This tradition dates back centuries and is a significant part of Venetian culture.
Local Culture
To truly experience Venice like a local, wander away from the main tourist routes. Visit during the Venice Biennale to see the city come alive with contemporary art and culture. Spend time in the lesser-known neighbourhoods like Cannaregio or the artistic hub of Dorsoduro to discover hidden galleries and quaint bookshops.
Check out our City Breaks Venice package here ...
Day Trips
If you have the time, take a day trip to the nearby islands of Murano which is known for its exquisite glassmaking, or Burano, famous for its brightly coloured houses and lace, or explore Torcello for its ancient churches and serene atmosphere.
Navigating the City
Getting around Venice is a unique experience; the city is best explored on foot or by vaporetto (water bus). Consider purchasing a travel card for unlimited travel on the vaporetto services. Always be vigilant of your belongings, particularly in crowded areas, to avoid common tourist pitfalls.
Fun Fact: A Floating City
Despite being known as the 'Floating City', Venice is actually sinking at a rate of about one to two millimetres per year. Efforts are ongoing to preserve its ancient structures and maintain the city's stability.
Venice's allure lies in its mesmerising blend of ancient history and artistic beauty, wrapped in the romantic charm of its watery avenues. Whether it’s your first visit or you're returning to rekindle old memories, Venice always offers something new to discover, making it an ideal choice for travellers looking for a magical city break!
Ready to explore Venice? Pack your bags and let the city’s romantic spirit enchant you on your next city break!
Looking for a short break but can't decide where to go? Browse our popular city breaks here ...