Things to Do in Venice in 2025 - Top Attractions, Local Food, Hotels & Travel Tips (Updated April, 2025) | Trip.com

About Venice

Recommended trip: 2–4 day(s)

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Venice Local Travel Guide 2025

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Venice Brief Guide

Venice is a uniquely beautiful canal city. Located in northeastern Italy, the whole city lies on the water. Water is Venice's soul. The beautiful structures of the city are all reflected in the water, as though all of Venice is afloat and drifting calmly. The Grand Canal is the “road” that passes through the whole city of Venice. Take a gondola and experience the water city's unique style. Don’t forget to try Venice's unique Spaghetti al Nero di Seppia (pasta with squid ink) and buy an exquisite hand-made mask before you go. Venice's wonders are not limited to the city’s center. On the azure waters of the Venetian Lagoon, there are many wonderful outlying islands that have to be seen, such as Burano, Murano and the Lido di Venezia.

Venice Must-try Local Experiences

1. Explore the Grand Canal by Gondola Experience Venice from its iconic canals by taking a gondola ride along the Grand Canal. Glide beneath ancient bridges, marvel at the grandeur of palazzo, and soak in the unique atmosphere of this historic waterway. 2. Discover the Heart of Venice Immerse yourself in Venice's historical heart by exploring St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace. Climb the campanile for panoramic views and step back in time within the opulent halls of the palace. 3. Discover Local Artifacts To delve into the traditional art of Venetian mask-making, you can either participate in workshops or browse through vibrant shops showcasing unique designs and craftsmanship. Additionally, don't miss out on Murano, famed for its glassmaking tradition. Witnessing a glassblowing demonstration will not only give you insight into this intricate craft but also offer the opportunity to purchase one-of-a-kind glass art pieces. 4. Experience Colourful Festivities Experience the Regata Storica, a thrilling gondola race on the Grand Canal with colorful boats and traditional costumes. The Venice Biennale, held every two years, showcases contemporary art from around the world. Additionally, the Venice Film Festival, held annually in late August or early September, is one of the oldest and most prestigious film festivals globally. 5. Experience Local Art Culture For a memorable cultural experience, attend a performance at Teatro La Fenice, one of the world's top opera houses. You'll be captivated by the grandeur of Italian operas and powerful music. Also, enhance your trip with concerts at the historic Church of San Vidal, featuring the works of Antonio Vivaldi. And you can find tranquility at the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, home to modern masterpieces, showcasing works by artists like Picasso, Pollock, and Dalí. These events offer a genuine taste of Venetian culture. 6. Savor the Flavors of Venice Indulge in Venetian cuisine with dishes like squid ink risotto and cicchetti, small snacks served in bacari, best enjoyed with a glass of local wine. Treat yourself to Venetian desserts like fritole and baicoli, paired with a cup of Italian coffee for a perfect culinary experience. 7. Find Unique Souvenirs in Venetian Workshops Discover artisan workshops in Venice's backstreets, offering exquisite Murano glass, handcrafted masks, and beautiful Burano lace as unique souvenirs. The Mercerie is Venice's main shopping street, offering a mix of high-end boutiques, souvenir shops, and local artisans. 8. Take Once-in-a-Lifetime Photos at Famous Places Enjoy stunning views from the Rialto Bridge, overlooking the lively Grand Canal and the city’s timeless charm. Burano’s vibrant houses make for a perfect photography backdrop, reflecting beautifully in the canals. Capture the iconic Bridge of Sighs, connecting the Doge's Palace to the prison, and uncover its fascinating history for an enriching Venetian experience. 9. Explore the Hidden Gems Escape the crowds and visit Palazzo Malipiero's secret garden, a peaceful retreat with lush greenery and elegant statues. Dorsoduro is an excellent choice for a less touristy experience, featuring charming streets, artisan shops, and local eateries. Don't miss Libreria Acqua Alta, a quirky bookstore where books are stored in bathtubs and gondolas to protect them from flooding. It’s a delightful place to explore.

Venice Must-see Attractions

Venice is a city steeped in history and culture, renowned for its architectural marvels such as St. Mark's Square, the opulent Saint Mark's Basilica, the poignant Bridge of Sighs, the grand Doge's Palace, and the iconic Grand Canal, each offering visitors a glimpse into the city's rich heritage and vibrant social and political life.

Venice Food Guide

Venice's food scene is a blend of traditional Italian flavors and maritime influences, featuring iconic dishes like the Pizza Margherita, fresh seafood salads that showcase the city's lagoon heritage, and artisanal gelato with a variety of unique and classic flavors enjoyed in the city's charming alleys.

Venice Transportation

Venice's transportation infrastructure is centered around its airports and water-based transport, given its unique geography. Marco Polo Airport (VCE) is the primary international gateway to Venice, located just 12km from the city. It is well-equipped with modern facilities and offers a range of transport options to reach Venice, including land taxis and buses from the ATVO and ACTV lines, as well as water taxis and the Alilaguna waterbus service. Travelers can reach the city center conveniently from Marco Polo Airport, with the journey taking between twenty and ninety minutes depending on the mode of transport. Treviso Airport (TSF), approximately 25km from Venice, mainly serves low-cost airlines and offers a straightforward connection to Venice via a private taxi service or the ATVO public bus service. The airport is smaller than Marco Polo but still provides essential amenities for travelers. Venice's passenger ports are also a major component of its transportation network. The Port of Venice is a significant hub for cruise ships and sees around 2.5 million passengers annually. It offers extensive facilities for passenger handling and connects Venice to various seaports in the Adriatic and Aegean regions. The port is within walking distance from Piazzale Roma and the historical center, with the Marittima terminal being the largest for ocean liners. Smaller cruise vessels, hydrofoils, and catamarans are catered to at the San Basilio terminal. Additionally, the Venice Yacht Pier provides dockage for superyachts with services such as refueling and bunkering.

Venice Where to Stay

Venice is a city of unparalleled charm, with its accommodation areas spread across various neighborhoods, each offering a unique experience to travelers. The city's hotels and other lodgings are nestled among historic palazzos, winding canals, and vibrant squares, providing a range of options from luxurious stays to budget-friendly accommodations.

Venice Best Time To Visit

The best time to visit Venice is during the late spring and early autumn months. Specifically, April, May, September, and October are highly recommended. During these months, the weather is warm and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 18 to 22°C, making it ideal for exploring the city's enchanting streets and canals. Late spring offers clear skies and fewer crowds, allowing for a more relaxed experience. Similarly, early autumn provides a quieter atmosphere with comfortable temperatures around 24°C, perfect for attending cultural events and enjoying the city's beauty without the summer heat.

Venice Travel Tips

1. Mind the Museum Schedules: Many museums in Venice have specific closing days, often on Mondays or Tuesdays. Verify the opening hours to ensure you don't miss out. 2. Dress Modestly for Churches: When visiting religious sites, ensure to dress modestly. Shoulders and knees should be covered to show respect. 3. Pickpocket Precautions: Be vigilant in crowded areas and on vaporettos. Keep valuables secure and be wary of distractions that might be part of a pickpocketing scheme. Popular spots for pickpockets include Piazza San Marco, Rialto Bridge, and crowded water buses. Use anti-theft gear like money belts and keep bags in front of you. Avoid carrying valuables in back pockets. 4. High Water Walkways: During aqua alta, elevated walkways called passerelle are set up in flooded areas. Use these to navigate safely and avoid walking through potentially contaminated water. Check tide forecasts and listen for sirens indicating high water levels. Avoid swimming or going barefoot in the water, as it can be cold and dirty. 5. Photography Restrictions in Churches: Photography is often prohibited inside churches and religious sites in Venice, such as St. Mark's Basilica. Look for signs or ask permission before taking photos. Some churches may allow non-flash photography, while others may have complete bans.

Venice Useful Guide

The official language of Venice is Italian, with the Venetian dialect also prevalent among locals, especially the older generation. Translation services and apps can assist visitors, though many Venetians, particularly in the tourism industry, speak English. Multilingualism is common due to the city's historical trade connections and tourism. Effective communication for non-Italian speakers can involve using basic Italian phrases, gestures, and facial expressions.