How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Venice
Venice ranks as one of the world’s most romantic cities. Couples and honeymooners rub shoulders with tourists and holidaymakers. But with so many things going on, it can be challenging to plan the perfect trip. Some tourists go on a private tour in Venice with a local guide. Others prefer to explore the city on their own. Here are a few tips so that you can make sure you plan the perfect getaway.
Why Should You Visit Venice?
Just picture walking hand-in-hand with your loved one as you lazily explore the labyrinth of narrow streets. Around each corner, you’ll find charisma. Small hidden cafés that have catered to the same clientele for years. Stroll along the canals and photograph some of Europe’s finest attractions. But the real highlight is the juxtaposition of life. Venice retains its old world charm. Relics from the Venetian Empire remain intact as millions of tourists with the latest technology photograph everything. Throw in the world-class restaurants and fine dining options along the cobblestone streets. Stick around after dark, and you’ll find a magical city bathed in light. And this is made even more special since most of the day-trippers have gone!
When is the Best Time to Visit Venice?
Venice is beautiful year round. Each season has its own advantages for visitors. They also have their pitfalls. Most tourists come to visit in the summer between late May and September. Temperatures hover in the mid- to high 20s – the perfect weather for t-shirt and shorts. Days are longer and tourists have the chance to take part in dozens of activities both on land and in the water. Spring and autumn usually attract those who want to soak up the Venetian culture. Because the weather is unpredictable, this is the perfect time to hit the museums and soak up the atmosphere in the cafés. Venice transforms into a winter wonderland later in the year. While the city doesn’t get much snowfall, the Christmas spirit hangs in the air.
Top Things to Do in Venice
Most visitors head to St Mark’s Square. This is the hub of life and activity in Venice. You can sit and snap photographs of the stunning surroundings. And watch as millions of pigeons swarm around those with food. You can sit outside and watch the gondolas in the canal pass by in front of you. Or go inside Saint Mark’s Basilica. The basilica is the symbol of Venice. It represents the opulence and grandeur of Venice centuries ago. Pro tip: If you’re staying in Venice, try to arrive as early as possible. Day-tripping tourists start arriving in the mid-morning, and the piazza gets quickly overcrowded. There are several cafés and restaurants surrounding the square so you can sit back and enjoy the atmosphere while watching the people and tourists pass by.
After spending a few hours in the piazza, head down to the canals. You can arrange a tour on one of the gondolas that will take you around the labyrinth. While you might not get serenaded like you see in the movies, it will be a once in a lifetime experience. You also get to see the parts of Venice that most visitors don’t. This includes navigating along some of the narrowest of canals. Visitors who are staying for a few nights in Venice can also go on a gondola tour in the evening. Slowly passing through the canals as the city shines is among the most romantic activities in Venice. If you do want to have a gondola experience in Venice, it’s a good idea to arrange a tour in advance. This guarantees that you’ll get what you pay for.
Other highlights include taking a selfie on the Rialto while watching the gondolas sail past below. Try some of the Venetian food. Especially the local pizzas in the almost ubiquitous pizzerias. As you explore the alleys, you’ll find lots of hidden cafés and bookshops. Step inside and see what’s on offer.
Planning Your Perfect Trip to Venice
If you’re going on a trip to Venice, spend a little time planning what you want to do. You’ll find different activities and charisma depending on the season you visit. Spending two nights gives you the chance to see Venice without the hordes of tourists. Visit Saint Mark’s Square early, arrange a tour with a reputable company to explore the canals and take a selfie on the Rialto.
