Yes, that's the first tip! In Venice, getting lost is an art. Put away Google Maps for a while, follow the scents (perhaps of a fritter), the quiet alleys, the hanging laundry, and the faded signs. Keep your eyes peeled: when the large doors of palaces are open, you often glimpse hidden gardens and fairy-tale courtyards that seem straight out of a novel. That's where Venice reveals its most authentic soul.
Purchase an ACTV ticket (better yet, a daily or multi-day pass on VeneziaUnica), hop on Vaporetto line 1, and let the Grand Canal carry you. You'll pass centuries-old palaces, iconic bridges, and views that look like Canaletto paintings.
St. Mark's Square is a must-see, but it's best to go early in the morning or later in the day to avoid the crowds. The Basilica and the Campanile are two essential stops. Book your Basilica visit in advance to skip the line, and if you ascend the Campanile... watch your vertigo: the view is breathtaking!
Step into a bacaro and order an ombra (a glass of wine) and some cicchetti: small snacks, like tapas, featuring baccalà mantecato, sarde in saor, meat or fish balls. Must-tries: Cantina Do Spade, All’Arco, Al Mercà. And if you're lucky, you might catch an impromptu concert outside the door!
If you love art, Venice is a dream. From the Accademia to the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, and the Scuola Grande di San Rocco (with Tintoretto's masterpieces!). But also step into the churches: besides the Basilica dei Frari and Madonna dell'Orto, don't miss the Church of San Pantalon, where the ceiling hosts the largest painted canvas in the world. Your neck might ache from the awe.
Teatro La Fenice is one of Europe's most enchanting music temples. Even if you're not an opera fan, the experience itself is unforgettable. Alternatively, look for a baroque music concert in a historic church or palace: atmosphere guaranteed.
Yes, it's touristy. Yes, it's a bit pricey. But it's also one of the most beautiful experiences, especially if you choose a quiet route through the inner canals. Avoid the crowded Grand Canal routes and ask the gondolier to share some anecdotes: they're masters at storytelling.
Need a sweet break? Try baicoli, bussolai buranelli, or Venetian fritters (during Carnival season). For a stylish sit-down, Rosa Salva or Tonolo are two historic pastry shops worth the stop. Prefer savory? Then the must-stop is Rosticceria Gislon, with its mozzarella in carrozza: a fried bomb that deserves to be tasted at least once in your life.
Books everywhere: in gondolas, bathtubs, on stairs. It's one of the most original bookstores in the world, and peeking out the back, you'll see a romantic view of the canal. An organized chaos that makes you dream.
Venice from the water is magical, but from above... it's pure poetry! A maze of red roofs, bell towers, secret courtyards, and canals that seem drawn with a pen.
Here are places to climb for an unforgettable panorama:
St. Mark's Campanile: the classic. Elevator ride, total view of the lagoon.
San Giorgio Maggiore Campanile: opposite St. Mark's, offers a spectacular view of the city (and there's almost always less of a line).
Mulino Stucky Panoramic Terrace: on the Giudecca Canal, with an attached bar for an aperitif with a view.
Scala Contarini del Bovolo: fascinating and unexpected, with a romantic view over the rooftops of the San Marco district.
Whether you want a postcard photo or simply to be amazed, Venice from above is an experience worth the breath... and a few steps!
Bonus Tips:
In Venice, you walk. A lot. Between bridges, small bridges, ups and downs, and unexpected alleys, comfort on your feet is sacred.
There are many drinking fountains. Save money and help the environment.
The traghetto is a type of gondola used exclusively as a means of transport by Venetians, to cross the Grand Canal where there are no bridges. It's not intended for tourists, nor does it offer a panoramic experience: it's fast, practical, and everyday. If you're looking for a real gondola experience, better opt for the traditional ride.
Especially in the summer months, Venice can become a destination... even for mosquitoes! Bring a spray or repellent wipes: you'll thank yourself during an evening walk along the canals.
Venice is a beautiful city but without cars, with many bridges, and few (very few) elevators. Avoid giant suitcases: dragging them up and down bridges and stairs is tiring and impractical. Bonus of the bonus: traveling light leaves more room for souvenirs!
🎒 Ready to Go? Whether it's your first time in Venice or your tenth return, this city always knows how to surprise you... even around the most hidden corner. Pack your backpack, leave room for wonder... and remember: in Venice, even getting lost is an experience not to be missed!
BOOK YOUR HOLIDAYArriva a Venezia la prima edizione del Salone dell’Alto Artigianato Italiano, un evento unico che celebra l’arte e l’artigianato italiano nel cuore della laguna, culla di antichi mestieri e di un saper fare tramandato nei secoli.
Are you looking for a parking place in Venice? You are in the right place… we will help you!! Venice, as you already know, is a completely pedestrian city and the car parks are located in Piazzale Roma or to The Isola Nuova di Tronchetto.
How do I get to Venice from the airport? It’s one of the main questions we answer every day. Below we list the solutions available so you can choose the one that best suits your needs.
Venice is not a city you simply describe – it’s a place you breathe in. You walk through shimmering reflections, the scent of salt air, voices echoing through the alleys, and a constant sense of wonder. Starting your journey from the Residenza Bistrot de Venise, just steps away from the Rialto Bridge, means having the city at your feet. All you need are comfortable shoes, a curious spirit, and a willingness to be amazed.
Don’t be fooled by the romantic gondolas or the golden reflections of the Grand Canal. Venice has a hidden face—older, darker, and far more unsettling. A city of mists and whispers, where every stone tells a tale of betrayal, restless spirits, and shadowy presences.
Once upon a time, long ago, in the enchanted lagoon of Venice...
