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Everything you need to know before your trip to Venice
Travel to Venice: Everything you need to know before you leave
Venice, the city of canals and gondolas, fascinates travelers with its unique beauty and rich historical heritage. Whether you wish to explore its architectural treasures, its art museums or simply stroll through its picturesque alleyways, Venice offers an unforgettable experience.
But before any trip to Venice, there are many questions to ask: when is the best time to visit, what to do and what to see, and how long is the best time to stay to fully discover the lagoon?
Here are our answers to your questions!
Why visit Venice?
The first question most people ask about Venice is: is it still worth visiting? The answer is, of course, YES.
Venice remains a must-see destination thanks to its unique heritage and incomparable atmosphere. The city of the Doges, famous for its canals and its architecture, offers an experience found nowhere else. Despite mass tourism and some of the city's negative aspects (similar to those of all highly touristy cities), the Serenissima retains a charm and authenticity unique in the world.
Artistic treasures, renowned museums and Venetian traditions are just some of the reasons to make haste.
What to do and see in Venice?
Once you've made the decision to finally travel to Venice, you're probably wondering what to visit and what to do.
The first must-see on your trip is Saint Mark's Square, with its enchanting atmosphere. This is followed by a visit to the majestic Basilica of San Marco, a jewel of Venetian architecture, where you can admire its exceptional Byzantine mosaics.
Afterwards, a stroll along the Grand Canal will allow you to admire the magnificent palaces that line its banks, including the Doge's Palace, seat of Venetian power for centuries and centuries.
Don't forget to cross the famous Rialto Bridge, one of the most emblematic symbols of Venice, and stroll through the Rialto market to discover the flavors and colors of the local cuisine. For a breathtaking view of the city, climb to the top of the Campanile di San Marco, from where you can contemplate Venice in all its splendor.
As you explore the islands of the lagoon, don't miss Murano and Burano. Murano is renowned for its glass craftsmanship, while Burano captivates with its colorful houses and picturesque charm.
When to go to Venice?
September and October are among the best times to visit Venice. During this period, you can discover the city in a calmer atmosphere, far from the summer crowds that characterize the high tourist season. Spring in Venice also offers pleasant weather, with mild temperatures typical of the Mediterranean climate and a very unusual atmosphere.
Venice enjoys a special charm during these shoulder seasons, when you can fully enjoy its treasures without being overwhelmed by the crowds. What's more, these periods are ideal for avoiding the influx of visitors during major events such as the Venice Carnival.
The high season, from May to August, is still a good opportunity to visit the city under a blue Italian sky: just remember to book your entrance tickets, transport and accommodation well in advance.
How many days will it take to visit Venice?
Last but not least, the length of your trip.
Despite its modest size compared to the big European capitals, a simple weekend won't be enough to explore all the wonders Venice has to offer. If you don't want to miss a thing of this city and its lagoon (there's more to Venice than its city center), then plan on spending at least 4 days and 3 nights here. If you're looking for a more leisurely pace and want to add to your trip the extraordinary places close to the city, such as the Palladian villas, the city of Padua or Chioggia, then opt for a 5 to 6-day stay.
Our Venice cruises
Discover Venice in all its forms on one of our summer itineraries. Whether you're an art lover looking for discoveries at the Biennale, a music lover wanting to attend the Opera in Verona, a family looking for their next getaway or a solo traveler ready for an enriching experience, we've got the Venice trip for you.
With our 6-day, 5-night, full-board cruises, including drinks on board, CroisiEurope is the best way to explore Venice and its lagoon islands at your own pace.
Venetian Treasures (port-to-port cruise)
VENICE - MAZZORBO - VENICE - CHIOGGIA - VENICE
What city can conjure up romantic images more than Venice? If you have dreamed of admiring the city from a gondola, standing in Saint Mark’s Square, or indulging in the fine food found on almost every corner, join us for a cruise through the calm waters and enchanting panoramas in the Venetian Lagoon.
Timeless Venice (port-to-port package)
VENICE - MAZZORBO - VENICE - CHIOGGIA - VENICE
Set off on a cruise to experience quintessential Venice. Dive into the art of gondola and mask making. Indulge in fine Venetian cuisine and enjoy authentic cicchetti at the edge of the Grand Canal. Find some respite from bustling Venetian life on the charming island of Burano. To top it all off, discover hillside villa masterpieces from the Renaissance.
Venice at your pace (port-to-port package)
VENICE - MAZZORBO - VENICE - CHIOGGIA - VENICE
Discover Venice at your own pace on a cruise aboard a floating hotel ideally located in the heart of the city. Soak up the enchanting atmosphere while enjoying complete freedom to organise your day, with half-board included. Venice, the city of canals, offers a multitude of possibilities for travellers. Art lovers can admire artistic masterpieces in the city's museums and churches. Gourmets can sample the local cuisine, with specialities such as cicchetti in the bacari. There's something for everyone.
From the Canals of Venice to Renaissance-infused Mantua
VENICE - MAZZORBO - VENICE - CHIOGGIA - PORTO VIRO - Padua(1) - CANDA - OSTIGLIA - Verona(1) - MANTUA - Venice
From Venice to Mantua, enjoy a unique cruise. The region of Veneto opens its doors and invites you to discover Venice, famous Saint Mark's Square and Doge's Palace, the official residence of Venetian dukes. Lombardy welcomes you next with its breathtaking and varied panoramas. You'll visit unique cities such as romantic Mantua.