Venice, often referred to as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” is a world-renowned city of canals, surrounded by the sea and connected to the mainland by a single long causeway at the northwest. With over 177 canals dividing the city into 120 islands, Venice is affectionately known as the “City of 100 Islands.”
A City Floating on Water
From an aerial view, Venice seems to float serenely on the water, offering a truly unique perspective. For visitors arriving via Venice Marco Polo Airport, there are convenient shuttle buses to Mestre, and from there, you can take a short 10-minute train ride to Venice itself. Tickets are easily available from the self-service kiosks at the station, with frequent departures every 5-10 minutes for just 1.5 euros.
Getting Lost in Venice’s Charm
Stepping out of the Santa Lucia train station, you’re immediately immersed in the lively atmosphere of the city. Across from the station stands a grand arch-roofed church, with canals flowing gently beneath the many bridges, boats gliding by, and crowds of tourists enjoying the sights. 
Dining Along the Canals
Dining along the canals is a must, and a great spot to experience this is Trattoria Alla Fontana, a local favorite with great reviews. As you savor traditional Italian cuisine, you can also enjoy the view of the sunset casting golden reflections on the water.
Venetian restaurants take pride in their homemade desserts, with tiramisu being a particular highlight. Each restaurant adds its own twist to this beloved treat, making it a must-try during your visit.
A Night in Venice
As night falls, the city takes on a magical charm. The canals shimmer under the fading light of the sunset, and Venice’s nighttime ambiance is like no other.
Getting Around Venice
The island of Venice is quite large, and while walking is the most common way to explore, you can also take a vaporetto (waterbus) for a more relaxed way to see the city from a different angle. Venice’s transportation system includes walking, water buses, water taxis, and the famous gondolas.
Iconic Landmarks
A visit to the Rialto Bridge is a must. Made entirely of white marble, this historic bridge is a perfect example of Venetian architecture, featuring a beautiful pavilion in the center and intricate carvings. The bridge also appeared in the movie Spider-Man: Far From Home.
Next, head to Piazza San Marco (St. Mark’s Square), the center of Venetian life for centuries. Surrounded by remarkable buildings, including the Doge’s Palace, St. Mark’s Basilica, and the Campanile (Bell Tower), the square is a stunning blend of medieval and Renaissance architecture.
St. Mark’s Basilica, built in the 9th century and rebuilt in the 11th century, is a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture, housing priceless artworks and standing as a symbol of Venetian pride.
Gondola Rides and More
On the waterfront near St. Mark’s Square, you’ll find the gondola docks, where you can take a traditional gondola ride. The gondola is one of the most iconic symbols of Venice, dating back over a thousand years. A 30-minute gondola ride typically costs around 80 euros, offering an unforgettable way to see the city from the canals.
Venetian Cuisine and Spritz
For lunch, venture into the narrow streets to discover hidden gems like DAL MORO’S, where you can enjoy freshly made pasta. The small restaurant often has long lines, but it’s worth the wait for a delicious dish. Their bigoli pasta with pesto and cream sauce is a must-try.
Finally, don’t miss trying the Venetian spritz. This iconic cocktail, made with Prosecco and Aperol, is an essential part of the local culture. Over the past decade, the spritz has become one of the world’s top 10 most popular cocktails.
