Canals and Charms: Discover the Magic of Venice, Italy

Ciao bella! Welcome to Venice, Italy. Get ready to fall head over heels for this enchanting city of canals, where romance and adventure await around every corner. Venice is a dream come true for travelers seeking a perfect blend of history, culture, and Instagram-worthy moments. So, grab your favorite travel outfit and let's dive into the magical world of La Serenissima!

Getting There and Around

Venice Marco Polo Airport is your gateway to this floating wonderland. From there, you have two stylish options to reach the city:

1. Water taxi: For a glamorous entrance, hop on a private water taxi and cruise directly to your hotel in style.
2. Alilaguna water bus: A more budget-friendly option at €15 one-way, offering a scenic 1.5-hour ride to the city center.

Once in Venice, forget about cars or buses – it's all about walking and riding vaporetti (water buses). Pro tip: Get a multi-day vaporetto pass to save money and time. A 72-hour pass costs €40 and gives you unlimited rides on all routes.

Where to Stay

Luxury Lovers - For the ultimate Venetian experience, splurge on the iconic Gritti Palace. This 15th-century palazzo oozes old-world charm and offers breathtaking views of the Grand Canal. 

Mid-Range Marvels - Ca' Pisani Hotel in Dorsoduro is a chic boutique option with art deco vibes. It's perfectly located for exploring both popular sights and hidden gems.

Budget Beauties - Generator Venice on Giudecca Island offers stylish dorm rooms and privates at wallet-friendly prices. They offer female only dorms for solo female travelers. The sunset views from their terrace bar are to die for!

            

Hidden Gems and Local Tips

1. Libreria Acqua Alta: This quirky bookshop is a bibliophile's dream! Books are stored in bathtubs and gondolas to protect them from flooding. Don't miss the staircase made entirely of books for a unique photo op.
2. Scala Contarini del Bovolo: This hidden spiral staircase offers panoramic views of Venice without the crowds of St. Mark's Campanile. Entry is just €8.
3. Lido Beach: Escape the tourist hustle and catch some rays at this local favorite. Rent a bike and explore the charming island vibes.
4. Burano Island: While not exactly hidden, this colorful island is often overlooked by day-trippers. Stay until sunset for magical light and fewer crowds.
5. Palazzo Grimani: This off-the-beaten-path museum houses an impressive art collection in a stunning Renaissance palace. Entry is €14, and it's rarely crowded.

Local Foods and Restaurants

Venice's culinary scene is a delightful mix of traditional and modern.

Here are some must-try spots:

1. Osteria Al Squero: Enjoy cicchetti (Venetian tapas) and spritz while watching gondolas being repaired across the canal. Budget-friendly and oh-so-local!
2. Antiche Carampane: Hidden in a maze of alleys, this trattoria serves some of the best seafood in Venice. Reservations are a must!
3. Gelateria Nico: Indulge in their famous gianduiotto – a decadent block of chocolate gelato floating in fresh whipped cream. The perfect treat after a day of exploring!
4. Venissa: For a splurge-worthy meal, take a vaporetto to Mazzorbo Island and dine at this Michelin-starred restaurant set in a walled vineyard.
5. Rialto Market: Wake up early to see locals shopping for fresh produce and seafood. Pick up some fruit for a picnic or join a cooking class to learn Venetian recipes.

Here are some of the must-try local dishes in Venice:

1. Cicchetti - These are small snacks or side dishes, similar to Spanish tapas, that are very popular in Venice. They can include things like crostini with various toppings, fried seafood, meatballs, and more.
2. Baccalà mantecato - This is a creamy whipped salt cod dish, typically served on grilled bread or polenta. It's a Venetian specialty made by soaking and poaching dried cod, then whipping it with olive oil until smooth.
3. Sarde in saor - A traditional Venetian dish of fried sardines marinated in vinegar, onions, raisins and pine nuts. It has a distinctive sweet and sour flavor.
4. Bigoli in salsa - A pasta dish made with thick whole wheat spaghetti-like noodles (bigoli) served with an anchovy and onion sauce.
5. Risotto al nero di seppia - A classic Venetian risotto made with cuttlefish ink, giving it a striking black color.
6. Risi e bisi - A hearty dish of rice and peas, traditionally served on April 25th for the Feast of San Marco.

For authentic versions of these dishes, it's best to seek out local osterias and bacari (wine bars) away from the main tourist areas.

Instagrammable Moments

1. Ponte dei Sospiri (Bridge of Sighs): Capture this iconic bridge from Ponte della Paglia for the perfect shot.
2. Libreria Acqua Alta: The book staircase and "fire exit" (a door opening directly onto a canal) are pure Instagram gold.
3. Scala Contarini del Bovolo: The spiral staircase against Venice's skyline is a photographer's dream.
4. Burano: Every corner of this colorful island is a photo opportunity waiting to happen.
5. Gondola ride at sunset: Splurge on a private gondola ride during the golden hour for dreamy canal shots.

                 

Interesting Facts about Venice

• Venice is built on 118 small islands connected by over 400 bridges.
• The city has no roads, just canals and pedestrian alleys called "calli."
• Venetian masks were originally worn year-round, not just during Carnival.
• The narrowest street in Venice, Calletta Varisco, is only 53 cm wide!
• Venice has its own language, Venetian, which is distinct from Italian.

Must-Do Experiences

1. St. Mark's Basilica: Book a "Skip the Line" ticket to avoid long queues. For an extra special experience, join the "Secret Itineraries Tour" €32 to explore hidden passages and rooms (it includes Doge's Palace).
2. Doge's Palace: Immerse yourself in Venetian history and art. The ticket is €25 (if booked online) and includes access to St. Mark's Square museums.
3. Peggy Guggenheim Collection: Art lovers, don't miss this world-class modern art museum housed in Peggy's former home. Entry is €16.
4. Gondola ride: Yes, it's touristy, but it's a must-do! Save money by sharing with other travelers or opt for a traghetto (gondola ferry) across the Grand Canal.
5. Venetian mask-making workshop: Channel your inner artist and create a unique souvenir.

wayre it here like @inthelifeofgray

Nicol's pick: Roma Reversible Wrap Dress in Fern Green

            

Seasonal Highlights

• February/March: Experience the world-famous Carnival of Venice. Book accommodations well in advance!
• May: Art enthusiasts should plan their visit during the Venice Biennale (odd-numbered years).
• July: Watch the Festa del Redentore fireworks from a boat in the lagoon.
• September: Catch a movie under the stars at the Venice Film Festival.

Packing Essentials

• Comfortable walking shoes (leave the heels at home!)
• A stylish day-to-night outfit for impromptu aperitivo sessions
• Mosquito repellent (especially in summer)
• A portable charger for all those Instagram moments
• A light scarf or shawl for covering shoulders when visiting churches

Venice is a city that captures hearts and imaginations like no other. From its winding canals and historic palazzos to its vibrant art scene and mouthwatering cuisine, La Serenissima offers endless opportunities for adventure and romance. Whether you're sipping spritz at a hidden bacaro, getting lost in the labyrinthine streets, or marveling at centuries-old masterpieces, Venice will leave you enchanted and yearning to return.

So, pack your bags, charge your camera, and get ready for an unforgettable Venetian adventure. Buon viaggio, bella!

Happy travels!