Venice a week

Indulge in a welcome drink with a view at one of Venice's most historic luxury hotels, offering opulent interiors and a prime location near St. Mark's Square. Enjoy the grandeur of its Belle Époque architecture.

• Dress code is smart casual.

The principal public square of Venice, renowned for its immense beauty and historic significance. It's surrounded by stunning architecture including St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace.

• Beware of pigeons; feeding them is now prohibited and can result in fines.
• Visit early morning or late evening to avoid the largest crowds.

A highly-regarded, intimate seafood restaurant known for its fresh, seasonal dishes and extensive wine list. Reservations are essential due to its small size.

• Book weeks in advance.
• The menu changes daily based on market availability.

A masterpiece of Gothic architecture, this palace was the seat of Venetian political power for centuries. Explore its opulent chambers, armory, and the infamous prisons connected by the Bridge of Sighs.

• Book tickets online to skip the ticket line.
• Consider the 'Secret Itineraries' tour for a deeper dive into the palace's history.

A classic Venetian bacaro (wine bar) and trattoria offering traditional cicchetti (small snacks) and hearty seafood dishes. It's a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.

• Try a selection of cicchetti with a glass of local wine.
• Can get busy during lunch hours.

Home to an unparalleled collection of Venetian painting from the 14th to 18th centuries. Admire masterpieces by Bellini, Titian, Tintoretto, and Veronese.

• Allow ample time to appreciate the vast collection.
• Check for temporary exhibitions which can be excellent.

Experience the quintessential Venetian romance with a private gondola ride. Glide through the quieter, picturesque canals away from the Grand Canal's hustle.

• Agree on the price and duration before starting.
• Consider a ride during sunset for magical light.

Take the public water bus (Vaporetto) from Fondamente Nove to the island of Murano, famous for its glass-making tradition. The journey offers scenic views of the lagoon.

• Purchase a day pass if you plan on multiple Vaporetto trips.
• Sit outside for the best views.

Witness live demonstrations by master glassblowers in one of Murano's many factories. Learn about the ancient art and see intricate pieces being created.

• Many tours are free, but expect pressure to buy.
• Look for smaller, artisan studios for a more authentic experience.

Enjoy a traditional Murano lunch with fresh seafood and local specialties. Located near the iconic lighthouse, it offers a pleasant dining experience.

• Try the grilled fish.
• Enjoy the view of the canal.

A short Vaporetto ride from Murano takes you to the enchanting island of Burano, famous for its brightly colored houses and lace-making. The vibrant scenery is a photographer's dream.

• The Vaporetto ticket is usually covered by a day pass.

Wander through the narrow streets lined with houses painted in vivid hues. Visit the lace museum and browse the artisan shops.

• Each house color has a specific meaning or tradition.
• Don't miss the Church of San Martino Vescovo.

A historic restaurant on Burano, celebrated for its risotto di gò (a local fish risotto) and other traditional Venetian dishes. It's a classic choice for an authentic island meal.

• Reservations are highly recommended.
• The risotto di gò is a must-try.

A unique and charming bookstore where books are stored in gondolas, bathtubs, and waterproof bins to protect them from the high tides. It's a quirky and memorable stop.

• Look for the 'escape ladder' made of books.
• Great place for unique souvenirs.

This confraternity building houses a stunning collection of 56 ceiling and wall paintings by Tintoretto, showcasing his dramatic Baroque style. The building itself is an architectural gem.

• The sheer scale of Tintoretto's work is overwhelming.
• The exterior is also impressive.

One of Venice's oldest bacari, established in 1440. It offers an authentic atmosphere and a wide array of traditional Venetian cicchetti and local wines.

• Stand at the bar for the most authentic experience.
• Try the sarde in saor (sweet and sour sardines).

A vibrant and historic market on the Grand Canal, bustling with activity, especially in the morning. Explore stalls filled with fresh produce, local cheeses, and seafood.

• Best experienced in the morning before it winds down.
• Great for photos and soaking in local life.

A renowned restaurant focusing on high-quality, seasonal ingredients, particularly seafood, prepared with a refined touch. It offers a more upscale dining experience.

• Known for its excellent wine cellar.
• Reservations are essential.

Take Vaporetto Line 1 down the Grand Canal, stopping at various points. This is the most scenic and affordable way to see the palaces lining the canal.

• Sit on the open deck for unobstructed views.
• It functions as a hop-on-hop-off bus for the canal.

A leading museum of modern art, housed in Peggy Guggenheim's former home on the Grand Canal. Features works by Picasso, Dalí, Pollock, and more, with a beautiful sculpture garden.

• The terrace overlooking the canal offers great photo opportunities.
• Don't miss the works by Italian Futurists.

A charming Osteria in the Dorsoduro district offering creative, seasonal dishes with a focus on fresh ingredients. It has a cozy atmosphere and a good selection of wines.

• The tasting menu is a good way to sample multiple dishes.
• Reservations are recommended.

Wander through the art-filled Dorsoduro sestiere, known for its bohemian vibe, artisan workshops, and quieter canals. Visit Campo Santa Margherita for a lively local square.

• Discover hidden campi (squares) and bridges.
• Look for small art galleries and studios.

A traditional Venetian bacaro in Dorsoduro, famous for its delicious and affordable cicchetti. It's a perfect spot for an aperitivo before dinner.

• Enjoy a Spritz Veneziano with your cicchetti.
• It's a popular spot, so expect to stand.

A contemporary art museum owned by François Pinault, hosting rotating exhibitions of modern and contemporary art. The building itself is a beautifully restored Baroque palace.

• Check the current exhibition schedule online.
• Often features works from the Pinault Collection.

Another contemporary art space from the Pinault Collection, located in a striking former customs house at the tip of the Dorsoduro peninsula. Offers stunning views of St. Mark's Basin.

• The architecture and setting are as impressive as the art.
• Combine with a visit to Palazzo Grassi for a comprehensive art experience.

Located near the Rialto Bridge, this restaurant offers a modern take on Venetian cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood and a well-curated wine list. It has a chic, contemporary ambiance.

• Excellent views of the Grand Canal.
• Try their tasting menus.

Take a Vaporetto to the island of San Giorgio Maggiore and climb its bell tower for arguably the best panoramic view of Venice, including St. Mark's Square and the Doge's Palace.

• The Vaporetto ride is short and offers great perspectives.
• Less crowded than St. Mark's Campanile.

A historic osteria near the Rialto Bridge, serving traditional Venetian dishes in a rustic setting. It's known for its authentic flavors and lively atmosphere.

• A great place to try Venetian classics.
• Can be busy, so arrive early or be prepared to wait.

A breathtaking example of Italo-Byzantine architecture, this cathedral is adorned with gold mosaics and precious relics. The Pala d'Oro and Treasury are must-sees.

• Book tickets online to avoid long queues.
• Dress modestly: shoulders and knees must be covered.

A beloved local pastry shop offering a wide selection of traditional Venetian sweets and excellent coffee. It's the perfect spot for a final Venetian treat.

• Try the 'fritole' if in season (Carnival).
• Enjoy the bustling, authentic atmosphere.

Depart from Venice. Options include Alilaguna water bus, private water taxi, or land taxi from Piazzale Roma.

• Water taxis are the most expensive but fastest and most scenic.
• Alilaguna is a good balance of cost and experience.