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Venice--Itinerary Ideas? Out first trip....

Posted by (Dallas) on

Hi, am heading over to Italy in the early Spring--will spend 3 nights, 2 full days in Venice--would love to hear your suggestions for our visit to VENICE. Will be arriving late in the afternoon (Wed.) and will probably be very tired/jet lagged, so can't do much the 1st day, but do have, Thurs. & Fri. as full days, then will depart on Sat. for Florence. Appreciate any advice! Also, how does one get to the train station from the Saint Mark's area? Thank you! Karen

Posted by
1074 posts

Karen - Venice is an amazing city. It is very different than others in that you don't just "see the art" you actually are walking around in the art! After many visits my jaw still drops when I walk out of the train station and see a fantasy inviting me inside.

Flying from Dallas (I looked at your profile) you will definitely be tired but may I suggest you get to the hotel, unpack, shower and hit the streets! You don't need a specific destination - maybe a walk along the water, stop for a gelatto or a quick cup of coffee. Or both! Wine is always a good thing too! For dinner I suggest any place that looks crowded, is loud and the menu is in Italian. If the weather is warm enough, definitely eat outside - always great people watching. End the night in the Piazza San Marco walking from orchestra to orchestra - go ahead and dance if you want to. Get a good night's sleep and pretend that you don't have jetlag.

Some big "must sees" (for me every year) are San Rocco, the Frari, Rialto Bridge (and the shopping around there), and San Marco. Read Rick's book for more ideas to suit your own tastes. I especially like to meander on both sides of the canal. The tourist route from the Accademia Bridge to San Marco to the Rialto Bridge is a good start. But, don't be afraid to turn left or turn right off of that path. Try to get lost (don't think it's possible). You'll see the non-tourist Venice and I think you'll find it well worthwhile. The Jewish Ghetto area is also very interesting.

I am sure many other people will add their favorites so I won't add any more. Good walking shoes will make your feet very happy!

Posted by
949 posts

Do what RS suggests and buy an all day vaporetto ticket (easiest to get at St. Mark's square) then get on one that isn't too busy and do the whole loop of the Grand Canal. After this just get off at any stop that looks interesting and wander around. You don't have a lot of time to get out to the smaller islands as it is a little time consuming, but both Murano (for glass blowing) and Burano (for lace making) are both well worth a visit. I got to St. Mark's square early enough (before 9am) to beat the crowds and got some great photos, then jumped on a vaporetto and spent the rest of the day exploring.

Posted by
354 posts

Hopefully, your hotel in Venice will be one that you can find easily. Believe me, Venice is NOT like the US cities where there are blocks so navigation is easy (relatively). Make sure you get detailed instructions from your hotel on how to reach it. In some areas, you can hire a "porter" who will take your luggage on a cart and bring you to the hotel. I do not know the cost. A water taxi is expensive, but if your hotel has a water taxi door, it is a VERY nice way to acclimate yourself to Venice. With jet lag and your first visit, I would be looking for the most efficient way to get to the hotel.
As for what to see, it depends on your interests. St Marks's square is beautiful early AM and at night. The islands are a nice jaunt as is Lido for the beautiful free beach. The Grand Canal at night via vaporetto is also beautiful. Just wander and stop for an expresso or glass of wine when your feet hurt.

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