Venice, the Floating City

Venice, Italy, often referred to as "La Serenissima," is one of the world's most unique and enchanting cities. Built on a series of 118 small islands linked by canals and bridges, Venice is a masterpiece of art, architecture, and history.

A visit to Venice is like stepping back in time. One of the first things you'll notice is the absence of cars; the only way to get around is by foot or by boat. This makes exploring Venice a leisurely experience, as you meander through its maze-like streets.

Its ambience, stunning landmarks, and vibrant culture make it a must-visit destination for travelers. This 1-day guide provides essential information for planning your visit to Venice, ensuring you make the most of your time in this extraordinary city.

Getting There

Venice is well-connected by air, train, and road. The city’s main airport is Marco Polo Airport (VCE), located about 13 kilometers (8 miles) from the city center. From the airport, you can reach Venice by water taxi, which takes about 30 minutes and offers a scenic introduction to the city. Alternatively, there is a bus service that connects the airport to Piazzale Roma, Venice’s main bus terminal.

If you're arriving by train, the Santa Lucia Railway Station is conveniently located in the heart of Venice. The station is connected to major Italian cities like Rome, Florence, and Milan, as well as international destinations. For those driving, it's important to note that cars are not allowed in Venice itself. You'll need to park at one of the garages in Piazzale Roma or on the mainland in Mestre and take a bus or tram into the city.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Venice is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) when the weather is mild, and the city is less crowded. During these seasons, you can enjoy pleasant temperatures, ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F), making it ideal for walking and exploring the city. Additionally, the vibrant colors of spring flowers and autumn leaves add to the city's picturesque charm.

Summer (June to August) is the peak tourist season, with larger crowds and higher prices. Temperatures can rise to 30°C (86°F) or more, and the city's canals can sometimes have an unpleasant odor due to the heat. However, summer is also when many festivals, such as the Venice Film Festival and the Festa del Redentore take place, adding a festive vibe to your visit.

I went in summer and got to witness beautiful sunsets along Fondamenta S. Giobbe (Get to this spot by taking the water bus to Tre Archi station and heading northwest towards the water edge:

Winter (December to February) is the off-season, with fewer tourists and cooler temperatures ranging from 0°C to 7°C (32°F to 45°F). While it can be chilly, winter in Venice has its own charm, especially during the famous Venice Carnival when the city comes alive with elaborate costumes, masks, and parades.

Budget?

Venice can be an expensive destination, but with careful planning, it’s possible to visit on a range of budgets. On average, a mid-range traveler can expect to spend around €150 to €250 per day, which includes accommodation, food, transportation, and entry fees to attractions.

Accommodation: Budget hotels and hostels start around €60 to €100 per night, while mid-range hotels range from €150 to €250 per night. For a luxurious experience, expect to pay upwards of €400 per night at high-end hotels such as the iconic Hotel Danieli.

Food: Meals at a mid-range restaurant typically cost between €20 and €40 per person. Budget travelers can save money by enjoying Venice’s famous cicchetti (small snacks) at local bacari (wine bars) or by dining at casual trattorias. If you're super tight, consider buying your own ingredients and making your own meals.

Transportation: A single Vaporetto (water bus) ticket costs €7.50, but if you plan to use public transport frequently, consider purchasing a travel card, such as the ACTV Tourist Travel Card, which offers unlimited travel for a set period. I personally used this when I visited and found it very helpful because of its unlimited travel perk. Venice is walkable but will surely tire your legs out, so it won't hurt to hop on a Vaporetto freely without the cost in mind.

Attractions: Entry to major attractions like St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, and the Peggy Guggenheim Collection ranges from €10 to €25. Many churches and museums also offer discounted rates for students, seniors, and children.

Things to Do

Visit Burano Island

Burano, a small island in the Venetian Lagoon, is famous for its brightly colored houses, intricate lacework, and charming canals nestled away from the busier streets of Venice. Read about my experience spending half a day at Burano Island here.

Visit the narrowest street in Venice

Venice is a labyrinth of narrow streets, alleys, and canals. If you didn't already know, one of the most interesting places to explore if you have time is Calletta Varisco, known as the narrowest street in Venice. Measuring just 53 centimeters (about 20 inches) at its narrowest point, Calletta Varisco is tucked away in the Cannaregio district. This street is so narrow that it’s not prominently marked on maps and is often overlooked by tourists. I've marked it out on the Google My Maps widget above and it's called "Calle Varisco - the narrowest street in Venice".

It was indeed a narrow street and I found my shoulders almost brushing against the sides the entire time. The overall walk is quick and you'll find the street leading to a dead end.

Take a Gondola ride

No visit to Venice is complete without experiencing a gondola ride through the city’s iconic canals. Gondolas are traditional, flat-bottomed boats that have been used as the primary mode of transportation in Venice for centuries. Today, they offer a romantic and scenic way to explore the city’s waterways. Sadly, I didn't get to go on a gondola, but I've included good-to-know information below.

Where to Find a Gondola Ride

Gondolas can be found all over Venice, but the most popular spots to catch a ride are near Piazza San Marco (St Mark's Square), Rialto Bridge, and along the Grand Canal. Gondoliers, dressed in striped shirts and straw hats, are easy to spot, and they are usually stationed near the main tourist areas. However, for a more intimate experience, you might want to seek out a gondola ride in one of the quieter, less crowded parts of the city, such as the Dorsoduro or Cannaregio districts.

How Much Does a Gondola Ride Cost?

The cost of a gondola ride in Venice is standardized by the city. As of 2024, a standard 30-minute gondola ride costs around €80 during the day and €100 in the evening. If you want a longer ride, you can negotiate the price with the gondolier beforehand. Each gondola can typically accommodate up to six people, so if you’re traveling with a group, you can split the cost.

Alternatively, book safely via Klook below to guarantee your experience and avoid any hassle looking for gondoliers when you're in Venice:

What to Expect on a Gondola Ride

A gondola ride in Venice offers stunning views of the city from the water. You’ll pass by beautiful historic buildings, charming bridges, and hidden courtyards. One of the highlights is cruising along the Grand Canal, Venice’s main waterway, which is lined with majestic palaces, churches, and museums.

During the ride, you’ll also have the chance to pass under the Bridge of Sighs, a famous enclosed bridge made of white limestone that connects the Doge’s Palace to the prisons.

Legend has it that prisoners would sigh as they caught their last glimpse of Venice through the small windows before being led to their cells. Another highlight is passing by the Rialto Bridge, one of the most famous bridges in Venice, offering a perfect photo opportunity.

Catch rooftop views from T Fondaco dei Tedeschi

Walking along street level can feel boring at some point, so why not catch views from above instead? That's what T Fondaco dei Tedeschi is for. This luxury shopping center is located along Venice's Grand Canal with stunning views from the rooftop terrace.

If you're planning to head to the rooftop, do note that although it's entirely free, reservations are required. The easiest way to make a reservation is through the mall's official website.

The entrance to the rooftop is located on level 4 of the mall, which can be accessed via the lift or escalator. Once you're there, present your reservation confirmation to a staff, who will verify your reservation and let you know when it's time to access the rooftop.
The staff will let guests up in small groups based on the reservation time and each group has a strict 15-minute time limit while on top. Given its popularity, it is highly recommended to arrive on time to prevent denial at entry.

Things to Note

Weather and Flooding: Venice is known for its "acqua alta" (high water) periods, particularly in the fall and winter. This occurs when tides rise and flood parts of the city, including St. Mark's Square. While it’s a unique experience to see Venice partially submerged, it can also disrupt travel plans. Check the tide forecasts and bring waterproof footwear if visiting during this time. You can find tide information on the Venice Tide Forecast website.

Crowds and Booking in Advance: Venice is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, and it can get very crowded, especially during peak season. To avoid long lines, consider booking tickets to major attractions online in advance. Some sites, like St. Mark’s Basilica, offer skip-the-line tickets for a small fee. Early morning or late afternoon visits can also help you avoid the busiest times.

Dress Code: When visiting churches and religious sites, it’s important to dress modestly. Shoulders and knees should be covered, and hats should be removed when inside. This is especially important at St. Mark’s Basilica, where entry may be denied if you do not adhere to the dress code.

Sustainable Tourism: Venice has been struggling with over-tourism, which has led to concerns about the city's preservation. Visitors are encouraged to travel responsibly by following guidelines such as not littering, avoiding feeding pigeons, and staying in licensed accommodations. The city has also implemented a tourism tax of between 1 - 5 EUR, which is included in your hotel bill, to help maintain the city’s infrastructure. Children below 10 years of age and disabled individuals are exempt from paying the tax, while those between 10 and 16 years of age enjoy a tax reduction of 50%.

Conclusion

Venice is a city like no other, offering a blend of history, culture, and breathtaking beauty. From its iconic landmarks and artistic treasures to its winding canals and hidden alleys, Venice is a destination that will leave a lasting impression. Whether you’re wandering through St. Mark’s Square, cruising along the Grand Canal, or simply getting lost in the city’s labyrinthine streets, Venice promises an unforgettable experience. With proper planning and a sense of adventure, your visit to this floating city will be nothing short of magical. For more information on planning your trip, check out the official Venice tourism website.