Venice Vacations
Our top sights, highlights, and exclusive tips
- Destinations
- Europe
- Italy
- Venice
Embark on a dream trip to Venice with Tourlane, with a tailor-made vacation crafted for you by our local Travel Experts. Venice is a magnificent city of expression, romance, and architecture that for many years was its own republic. Follow in the footsteps of famous past residents like Marco Polo, Casanova, and renaissance painter Bellini. Wake up and enjoy a breakfast of pastries and espresso in a local café. Visit the spectacular Doge’s Palace and then head to St. Mark’s Square. Hop on a gondola to float along the Grand Canal at moonlight. Plan your own trip today with Tourlane as part of a multi-stop tour of Italy.
1. Doge’s Palace
If you’re interested in history and architecture, then head to Doge’s Palace. Venice has only been part of Italy since the 19th century, and the Doge’s Palace was the seat of power for a Venetian Republic for over 1,000 years. It is a great example of splendid Venetian architecture, located close to St. Mark’s Square. Enter this building and gaze at paneled doors and ornate ceilings of intricate beauty. Walk grand staircases and step outside to take in its stunning exterior. Speak to your Tourlane Travel Expert about booking in advance, to save on queueing time.
2. Rialto Bridge
This stone bridge was originally completed in 1591 and invites you to walk between rising arches and gaze across the Grand Canal in awe of its majesty. When you visit, enjoy a local spread known as cicheti: bitesize nibbles of octopus, sardines, and meatballs that go nicely with a glass of prosecco at a local bàcari tavern. The Rialto Bridge at sunset in the “City of Canals” is the perfect spot to relax outdoors after such a feast.
3. St. Mark’s Square and Basilica
Two must-sees during your trip to Venice are the spectacular St. Mark’s Square and Basilica. Built in the 9th century AD, the enormous 85,000 square feet cathedral is filled with impressive mosaics and vistas. You’re bound to recognize this iconic square, which is a constant hive of activity.
4. Teatro la Fenice
If you’re interested in theatre, head to the Teatro la Fenice, a venue that celebrates world-class performance. Orchestral and operatic compositions by Bellini, Donizetti, and Verdi have soared in a theater that has twice risen from the ashes since opening in 1712. Take a night to experience world-class acoustics that illuminates live performances of soprano songs, on the banks of the moonlit Rio de la Verona canal. Speak to your Tourlane Travel Expert for more information about performances.
5. The Grand Canal
The Grand Canal is Venice’s main waterway, so if you’re looking to do a gondola tour, hop on here! You’ll be guided between buildings that date from the 13th to the 18th century. The Grand Canal has been Venice’s centrepiece attraction since ancient times of early settlements. We recommend taking a ride at sunset as the sky pinks to take in the majestic and classic Venetian architecture.
6. Venice Giardini
Venice Giardini is a leafy park full of inviting green spaces. The park houses 29 pavilions that host national art from around the world and hosts La Biennale, an art exhibition that runs for several months throughout the year and is well worth visiting.
Where Should I Stay in Venice?
Your choice of where to stay depends on your travel tastes and preferences, as the city has a range of neighborhoods and accommodation options, from hotels to vacation apartments. Staying close to the Grand Canal allows you to access all the main attractions by foot, as does staying close to St. Mark’s Square. If you wish to leave the city by train, consider staying close to the main station. If you want something quieter, choose the glass-making island of Morano.
How Many Days Do I Need for a Venice Trip?
We recommend that you spend at least four days and nights on vacation in Venice, in order to allow you to enjoy the city at a comfortable pace. The city has so many exceptional attractions that are to be enjoyed. What’s more, a longer stay opens up the possibility of day trips from the city.
Where are the Best Day Trips from Venice by Train?
Venice has a large, centrally located train station with high-speed trains to all over Italy. The most popular day trips by train from Venice include the medieval city of Verona (the setting for Romeo and Juliet), and Lake Garda, which is one of the most beautiful lakes in Europe. Wine enthusiasts should consider a day trip by train to the Prosecco region.
Where is Venice Located?
Venice is located in northeastern Italy, on the Adriatic Sea. It is built on 118 small islands just off the main coast of Italy, which are accessible by a 2.5 mile causeway to the mainland. It is roughly 350 miles north of Rome and 175 miles east of Milan. It is 160 miles northeast of Florence.
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