Venice. Better known as the city of love. I would beg to differ, but maybe I just didn’t do it right…
Another Italian city I was hesitant about. I have no idea why. Everything I read about the streets of Venice were positive.
When exiting the train station, you are directly in front of the canal! I was immediately taken-aback by the beauty of the city on water.
I would still have to say, it’s not my favorite Italian city, but it definitely has its own charm. I am thankful that I have been able to see this city, as they say, it probably won’t last forever being on water. But I didn’t feel the “Venice romance”.
Regardless, I would go back, because each adventure and experience is different.
Here are my top five things to do in Venice:
- Take a ferry over to Murano & Burano. I have to be honest, Burano was my favorite out of the two. The colors will just blow your mind! Such contrast from the grey weather on the ride over!
- Eat at Trattoria alla Rivetta. A bit hidden and we took a chance without having a reservation to just show up when they opened. We got very lucky! They had a table that would end up being communal until their reservation showed. While we were eating, there was a line out the door, including reservations. Very authentic Italian and I would highly recommend!
- Wake up early. The early hours before the tourists are ferried from the cruise ships are the best. We visited St. Mark’s Square and took the free tour at the church before it got crazy busy. There is an eery, yet majestic feeling around the square in the early morning hours.
- Have a bellini at Harry’s. Contradicting my last statement about tourists, this is such a tourist thing to do – yet, iconic. Harry’s is one of the oldest bars and the bellinis aren’t cheap, but such a cool pub feel located right on the water.
- Take the ferry around Venice! If you buy a multi-day vaporetto ticket, it allows you unlimited trips to ferry around the canal! It’s a great way to take pictures and see the city. And on the way back you see the opposite side!
I hope you enjoy every canal of Venice! Don’t forget to get lost in the alleys and side streets! Ciao!
