Venice is one of those magical places that you dream of going to understand how it even exists. It’s a place that is hard to put in to words as its beauty is exhausting and you can get lost in the streets, quite literally all day. Because we were travelling in November, it was winter in Italy and it was freezing cold in Venice. It rained for most of the time we were there so we would definitely suggest going at a warmer time but it was still just as beautiful despite the rain and fog.
To get to the island of Venice from the Venice Marco Polo Airport, you take a bus and then catch a water taxi. You want to book your accommodation on the island itself as it is actually pretty small and you’ll be able to walk everywhere comfortably.
Our accommodation was an adorable little motel-style place called Hotel Caneva tucked away in one of the concrete streets. The location was wonderful and the rooms were cheap. We had two single beds and a little sink but the view out of our window was priceless.
The smell of the fresh sea water and the sound of the gondolas punting along the canals takes you away to a magical place.
Our first day in Venice was spent exploring the streets and all its nooks and crannies. The island is definitely like a maze and you will get lost as you wander but you will soon come to recognise the same spots and find your bearings.
As Venice was also our first stop in Italy, we came to realise that the Italians did food differently. We could not find a Western style breakfast anywhere. All that was available was a never-ending sea of sandwiches. We eventually found a little cafe in San Marco Square which sold waffles with hefty amounts of whipped cream and they did the job nicely.
Activities:
Murano Island
Because of how small Venice is, there is not a tonne of things to do apart from explore and admire it’s beauty. However, one thing that is worth doing is taking a boat taxi to Murano Island where the history of glass blowing began (something very common in Venice). It should be about a half hour boat ride but we took the wrong one which went the long way and they are normally very crammed so check you’re on the short trip.
Once off the boat you are left to you own devices to find the glass blowing factories which are definitely worth sitting in on and seeing how the craftsmen work. It will blow your mind how quickly they can turn melted glass in to stunning ornaments and jewellery.
There are also plenty of places to shop for Murano glass items and although the prices are slightly higher than back in Venice it is nice to pick up something as a souvenir with the satisfaction that it is high quality. The rooms filled with ornaments and stunning chandeliers are wonderful for window shopping and if you can afford to purchase one they can ship to your address anywhere in the world. (I longed for one of their beautiful chandeliers in my lounge room).
St Mark’s Campanile
In most places in Italy you will find a campanile that is well worth climbing because of its stunning views of the city (and it’s also a great workout). St Mark’s is located in the Piazza San Marco square near the basilica (it’s not hard to miss). Unlike most bell towers you will come across where you have to climb hundreds of stairs, St Mark’s actually has an elevator to take you up to the top so your legs can take a break.
If you go in the morning as the town is waking up or at midday you will catch the bells ringing which is a loud (almost deafening) yet exciting experience. It is a little intimidating standing near them though as they swing ferociously back and forth waking up this gorgeous little city. St Mark’s Campanile is also the highest building in Venice so the views are simply stunning and you can capture a birds-eye view of Venice.
Gondolas
You can’t go to Venice without going on a Gondola. Where else in the world can you have an experience like this?
In the winter months they don’t usually start running until 9.30am and they cost roughly 80 Euro for half an hour for two people. Make sure you agree on a price before hopping in as you may end up with an unexpected charge and it is also cheaper the more people you go with.
Our guide was lovely and told us about the history of Venice whilst posing for photos and taking photos of us too. Gliding through the canals was such a great way to see a lot of Venice that you can’t see from anywhere else but the gondolas. Totally recommend.
Venice Night Life
There are plenty of cute little restaurants in Venice and a great spot is on the canal by the Rialto bridge as you will have amazing views whilst indulging in amazing Italian cuisines.
As for the nightlife, it was very quiet and we put it down to being very cold and of course winter. We did find a pop-up cocktail bar serving mojitos but we didn’t have much luck finding any lively bars elsewhere.
Venice Shopping
Venice is filled with shops selling masks that are out of this world! There is so much creativity and detail and they are able to ship them internationally for you. There’s also plenty of boutique clothing stores where you will pick up beautiful coats and the like for a great price.
During the day and weather dependent, you’ll find the markets as well as individual stalls placed around the square with plenty of trinkets to bring home with you.
Venice was such an incredible experience despite it being winter and we can’t wait to return again in summer time and see if from a different perspective.
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