What to know before visiting Venice.
Without a doubt, this is one of those cities that looks straight out of a movie... but before you visit, there are a few things you should know. 👀
🚤 Transportation: gondolas coming and going...
Yes, they are a staple of the Venetian experience, but they aren't exactly cheap. A ride can set you back around €90–€110, with some options even including onboard musicians. 🎻
💶 Want the experience without breaking the bank?
There’s a highly recommended alternative: the traghetti, which let you cross the Grand Canal for just about €2. It’s not a long sightseeing tour, but it gives you a taste of gliding through the canal for next to nothing.
🗺️ Google Maps vs. Venice: a tough battle.
The streets are an absolute maze. You can follow the map to a tee and still end up at a dead end… or realize that the supposedly most direct route involves crossing multiple bridges. 😂
My advice: just go with the flow and enjoy the stroll.
✨ And yes, the city is absolutely stunning. Especially when you step into Piazza San Marco. Pictures simply don't do some places justice, and this square is definitely one of them.
That said, I had a little hiccup when I arrived: my train from Verona was delayed, so I got there pretty late and ended up missing out on the Doge's Palace. Just a great excuse to come back! 😉
Another slight bummer: San Marcuola, one of the churches I really wanted to visit, was under restoration. Oh well, next time.
Venice is just getting started... I'll share more details and some tips on how to enjoy it without spending a fortune later.
Day two in Italy, unlocked.