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Get Lost in Venice, Italy

First time in Venice? Here's what you absolutely need to see and do!

We only had one short day in Venice the first time we went to Italy, and it was a bit rushed. But Venice completely took my breath away. I always wanted to go back and spend more time there to really enjoy this magical island.

First time in Venice? Here's what you absolutely need to see and do!

Last summer I had the opportunity to go back and spend 3 nights in Venice. This was the perfect amount of time to explore the island, see the main sights, and take a day trip to the colorful, vibrant islands around Venice.

First time in Venice? Here's what you absolutely need to see and do!

Keep reading below for our tips on visiting Venice, what to do and where to stay. If you’re planning a trip to Venice, you’ll definitely want to check out our next post on Burano — it is a MUST DO day trip from Venice! You do not want to get so close and miss this incredible little island.

First time in Venice? Here's what you absolutely need to see and do!


Where to Stay

Honestly anywhere on the island of Venice is a good location. Rialto Bridge and St. Mark’s Square are two of the most touristy areas if you want to stay near the action. Campo Santa Margherita is another nice square with lots of restaurants and terraces.

If you want an authentic experience, you can find very affordable, comfortable, full apartments in quiet neighborhoods on Airbnb all over the island. The one we stayed in had a washer and dryer which definitely comes in handy! Join Airbnb using this link to get $40 off your first booking!


First time in Venice? Here's what you absolutely need to see and do!

I recommend 2-3 nights in Venice. One full day to explore Venice, and one full day for a day trip to Burano and Murano. Stay tuned for our next post on Burano and Murano!

First time in Venice? Here's what you absolutely need to see and do!


Getting Around

Venice can easily be reached by train from Rome, Florence, and all major cities in Italy. For a more affordable option, also check out Flixbus. Sometimes the travel time is the same, but Flixbus is usually much cheaper than a train. It’s a very nice, air-conditioned bus. It’s at least worth checking out your options.

Once you get there, the best way to explore Venice is on foot. Get lost wandering through the narrow alleys, walking along the winding canals, and popping into all the beautiful churches.


First time in Venice? Here's what you absolutely need to see and do!

One of my favorite things about Venice is there are no cars on the island. It’s so quiet and peaceful!

First time in Venice? Here's what you absolutely need to see and do!


Where To Get The Best Pictures of Venice

Be sure to check out my previous post on Venice for more photos and GPS Locations for some of the most photogenic spots in Venice.


First time in Venice? Here's what you absolutely need to see and do!


What Camera Are You Using?

By the way, did you know you can click on any picture on this website and see the camera, lens, and settings I used to take the picture? Go ahead and try it with the photo above, if you want!

These days I’m traveling with a tiny point-and-shoot. It takes amazing pictures and is perfect “purse camera” for traveling because it’s so small!

Click here to read my full review on my travel camera.


First time in Venice? Here's what you absolutely need to see and do!

Suso is a super fun, very popular gelato shop in Venice! They had so many unique flavors. It was so hard to narrow it down to just three!

First time in Venice? Here's what you absolutely need to see and do!

Acqua Alta Library {GPS Location} is definitely one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, and totally worth checking out in Venice.

First time in Venice? Here's what you absolutely need to see and do!

The name Acqua Alta means high water and refers to the flooding that happens periodically in Venice.

First time in Venice? Here's what you absolutely need to see and do!

Yes — you can actually climb the stair of books for a wonderful view of Venice!

First time in Venice? Here's what you absolutely need to see and do!

Don’t forget to check out our post on taking a day trip to Burano from Venice. Stay tuned!

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8 Responses
  1. Christine

    Hi, my husband and I will be visiting Venice for 3 nights this spring. Do you have any other food or restaurant recommendations?

  2. Laura ~ Raise Your Garden

    Maveling at your beautiful pics as always! I remember back in college, I had the opportunity to go to Venice for $1300 for 10 days and didn’t end up going. The frugal gal in me didn’t let me go because my books were so $$$ that year. I’m still sad because I think I should have just gone!

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Meet Kevin & Amanda

Kevin and Amanda

We love to travel and to eat! Here we share our favorite quick and easy recipes, plus travel tips and guides for our favorite places around the world. If you have any questions about what camera I use or how I edit my photos, check out my photography tutorials.

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