Venice: The Complete Guide

Venice is one of Italy’s most picturesque cities. Beautiful floating palaces of stone surrounded by an ancient network of canals, built on a group of 118 islands and these small islands are linked with 400 bridges. These islands are located in the Venetian Lagoon, which sits just off of the mainland of Italy. With its Gothic architecture, Renaissance and Baroque buildings, wide piazzas, and narrow canals, Venice is often described as one of the most beautiful cities in the world.
Venice is divided into six sestieri, neighborhoods that have distinctly different characters. San Marco is the heart of Venice and home to Doge’s Palace, St. Mark’s Square, and the Rialto Bridge, surrounded on three sides by a great loop in the Grand Canal.
Most tourists spend the majority of their time here, along with Dorsoduro (Pont dell’Accademia, Peggy Guggenheim Collection, and Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute), and San Polo. Santa Croce, located on the western end of Venice, is the main transportation hub. The bus station, parking garages, and train station are located here. Cannaregio, Castello, and Giudecca are where many local Venetians live, but these sestieri make great places to go for a stroll if you want to escape the tourist crowds in the heart of Venice. Finally, Murano, Burano, and Lido make great day trips from Venice, but you need to have at least three days in Venice in order to have enough time to do this.
Table of Contents
- History of Venice
- Venice in the Early Beginnings: Refuge and Foundation
- Venice in the Middle Ages: Rise of a Maritime Republic
- Venice in the Renaissance: Wealth, Art, and Power
- Venice in the Early Modern Period: Decline and Preservation
- Venice in the Modern Era: From Occupation to Cultural Icon
- 45 Best places to See in Venice
- Procuratie Vecchie, St Marks Square, Venice
- Caffè Lavena
- Procuratie Nuove
- Procuratie Nuovissime (Newest Procuracies)
- Piazzetta dei Leoncini
- Caffè Florian
- Museo Archeologico, Venice
- Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo
- Torre dell'Orologio
- Museo Correr
- St Mark's Campanile
- Piazza San Marco
- Basilica di San Marco
- Harry's Bar
- Piazzetta di San Marco
- Biblioteca Marciana
- Teatro La Fenice
- Bridge of Sighs
- Rialto Bridge
- Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale) in Venice
- Casa di Marco Polo, Venice
- Chiesa Parrocchiale di Santa Maria Formosa
- Fondaco dei Tedeschi
- Museo Fortuny
- Punta della Dogana - Pinault Collection
- Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute
- Mercato di Rialto (Rialto Market)
- Basilica dei Santi Giovanni e Paolo
- Peggy Guggenheim Collection
- Ponte dell'Accademia
- Galleria Giorgio Franchetti alla Ca' d'Oro
- Church of San Giorgio Maggiore
- Ca' Rezzonico
- Basilica S.Maria Gloriosa dei Frari
- Gallerie dell'Accademia
- San Giacomo dell'Orio
- Leonardo da Vinci Museum, Venice
- Church of Santa Maria Assunta - The Jesuits
- Scuola Grande di San Rocco
- Museo di Storia Naturale di Venezia
- Chiesa dei Santi Geremia e Lucia - Santuario di Lucia
- Church of Madonna dell'Orto
- Venetian Arsenal
- Jewish Museum of Venice
- Giardini della Biennale
- 10 Best Day Trips from Venice
- Where to Stay in Venice
- Best Time to Visit Venice
- Venice in Spring: March to May (Best)
- Venice in Summer: June to August
- Venice in Autumn: September to November
- Venice in Winter: December to February
- How to get to Venice
History of Venice
Venice in the Early Beginnings: Refuge and Foundation
The history of Venice begins in the 5th and 6th centuries when people from nearby Roman cities fled to the lagoon islands to escape invading Germanic tribes. These early settlers built homes on wooden piles driven into the mud, gradually forming a network of communities across the marshy islets. As the Eastern Roman Empire weakened, Venice began to develop its own political structures, laying the groundwork for what would become a unique maritime republic. By the 8th century, Venice had its first Doge, and although nominally under Byzantine control, it was already charting a path of growing independence.
Venice in the Middle Ages: Rise of a Maritime Republic
During the 9th to 13th centuries, Venice emerged as a dominant naval and commercial power in the Mediterranean. The city’s strategic location between East and West allowed it to flourish through trade with the Byzantine Empire, North Africa, and the Levant. The construction of St. Mark’s Basilica in the 11th century, housing relics allegedly stolen from Alexandria, symbolized both spiritual prestige and worldly ambition. Venice’s influence expanded through military ventures, most notably the Fourth Crusade, during which it played a decisive role in the sacking of Constantinople in 1204. The spoils of this campaign further enriched the city and adorned its churches and palaces.
Venice in the Renaissance: Wealth, Art, and Power
The 14th to 16th centuries marked the golden age of Venice. The Republic solidified its dominance over maritime trade, controlling routes to the East and securing a vast commercial empire stretching from Cyprus to the Adriatic. This wealth fostered an extraordinary cultural and artistic flowering. Venice became a beacon of Renaissance art and architecture, with figures like Titian, Bellini, and Tintoretto defining its artistic identity. Lavish palazzi were built along the Grand Canal, and institutions like the Arsenal and the Venetian Senate demonstrated the city’s administrative and industrial prowess. Despite occasional setbacks, such as the plague of 1348, Venice remained a symbol of stability and opulence.
Venice in the Early Modern Period: Decline and Preservation
By the 17th and 18th centuries, Venice’s dominance began to wane. Shifts in global trade routes, particularly the rise of Atlantic trade, weakened its economic position. Meanwhile, its political independence was threatened by the growing power of neighboring states. Nonetheless, Venice retained its cultural prestige, becoming known for its Carnival, music, and literature. Composers like Vivaldi and playwrights like Goldoni thrived in this period. In 1797, the Republic of Venice came to an end when Napoleon Bonaparte conquered the city, transferring it to Austrian rule shortly afterward. This marked the beginning of a new, more subdued chapter in Venice’s history.
Venice in the Modern Era: From Occupation to Cultural Icon
During the 19th century, Venice changed hands multiple times before becoming part of the newly unified Kingdom of Italy in 1866. The city faced new challenges, including industrialization, flooding, and the slow decline of its port. However, its appeal as a romantic and historical destination only grew. In the 20th century, Venice established itself as a global cultural capital, hosting events like the Venice Biennale and the Venice Film Festival. Despite modern pressures, including overtourism and environmental threats, Venice continues to captivate the world with its unique beauty, historic legacy, and enduring mystery.
Visiting Venice for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Venice on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!
This website uses affiliate links which earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.
45 Best places to See in Venice
This complete guide to Venice not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.
This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Venice and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!
Procuratie Vecchie, St Marks Square, Venice

Location: Procuratie Vecchie, Piazza San Marco, Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy | Distance: 0.1km
Visiting Procuratie Vecchie, St Marks Square, Venice
Caffè Lavena

Location: Cafè Lavena, Piazza San Marco, Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy | Website | Distance: 0.1km
Visiting Caffè Lavena
Procuratie Nuove

Location: Procuratie Nuove, Piazza San Marco, Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Procuratie Nuove
Procuratie Nuovissime (Newest Procuracies)

Location: S. Marco, 1105, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Procuratie Nuovissime (Newest Procuracies)
Piazzetta dei Leoncini

Location: Piazzetta dei Leoncini, Piazza San Marco, Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Piazzetta dei Leoncini
Caffè Florian

Location: Caffè Florian, Piazza San Marco, Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Caffè Florian
Museo Archeologico, Venice

Location: Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Venezia, Piazza San Marco, Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy | Hours: 10am-7pm Apr-Oct, to 5pm Nov-Mar | Price: adult/reduced incl Palazzo Ducale €20/13, with Museum Pass free | Website | City Pass with Museums, Churches & Public Transport | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Museo Archeologico, Venice
Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo

Location: Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo, Scala Contarini del Bovolo, Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy | Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo Entrance Ticket | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo
Torre dell'Orologio

Location: Torre dell'Orologio, Piazza San Marco, Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy | Hours: tours in English 11am & noon Mon-Wed, 2pm & 3pm Thu-Sun | Price: adult/reduced €12/7 | Website | Skip the Line Tickets | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Torre dell'Orologio
Museo Correr

Location: Museo Correr, Piazza San Marco, Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy | Hours: 10am-7pm Apr-Oct, to 5pm Nov-Mar | Price: adult/reduced incl Palazzo Ducale €20/13, with Museum Pass free | Website | | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Museo Correr
St Mark's Campanile

Location: St Mark's Campanile, Piazza San Marco, Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy | Hours: 8.30am-9pm summer, 9.30am-5.30pm winter, last entry 45min before closing | Price: adult/reduced €8/4 | Website | Venice San Marco Tour with St. Mark's Bell Tower Tickets | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting St Mark's Campanile
Piazza San Marco

Location: St. Mark's Square, Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Piazza San Marco
Basilica di San Marco

Location: P.za San Marco, 328, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy | Hours: 9.30am-5pm Mon-Sat, 2-5pm Sun summer, to 4.30pm Sun winter | Website | St. Mark's Basilica Tour with Doge's Palace Option | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Basilica di San Marco
Harry's Bar

Location: Harry's Bar Cipriani, Calle Vallaresso, Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy | Distance: 0.3km
Visiting Harry's Bar
Piazzetta di San Marco

Location: Piazzetta San Marco, Piazzetta S. Marco, Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy | Hours: 24 hours | Price: Free | Distance: 0.3km
Visiting Piazzetta di San Marco
Biblioteca Marciana

Location: Biblioteca Marciana, Piazza San Marco, Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy | Distance: 0.3km
Visiting Biblioteca Marciana
Teatro La Fenice

Location: Teatro La Fenice, Campo San Fantin, Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy | Hours: 9.30am-6pm | Website | La Fenice Opera House Entry Ticket with Audio Guide | Distance: 0.3km
Visiting Teatro La Fenice
Bridge of Sighs

Location: Ponte dei Sospiri, Piazza San Marco, Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | | Distance: 0.3km
Visiting Bridge of Sighs
Rialto Bridge

Location: Rialto Bridge, Sestiere San Polo, Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy | Hours: 24 Hour | Price: Free | t. Mark's, Doges Palace, Rialto, and Gondola Tour | Distance: 0.3km
Visiting Rialto Bridge
Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale) in Venice

Location: Doge's Palace, Piazza San Marco, Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy | Hours: 8.30am-7pm summer, to 5.30pm winter | Price: adult/reduced incl Museo Correr €20/13, with Museum Pass free | Website | Stroll The Halls of Doge's Palace on a Guided Tour in Venice | Distance: 0.3km
Visiting Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale) in Venice
Casa di Marco Polo, Venice
Visiting Casa di Marco Polo, Venice
Chiesa Parrocchiale di Santa Maria Formosa

Location: Chiesa Parrocchiale di Santa Maria Formosa, Calle Seconda de la Fava, Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy | Hours: 10.30am-4.30pm | Price: adult/reduced €3/1.50, with Chorus Pass free | Website | Distance: 0.4km
Visiting Chiesa Parrocchiale di Santa Maria Formosa
Fondaco dei Tedeschi

Location: Fondaco dei Tedeschi, Calle del Fontego dei Tedeschi, Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy | | Distance: 0.4km
Visiting Fondaco dei Tedeschi
Museo Fortuny

Location: Museo Fortuny, San Marco, Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy | Hours: 10am-6pm Wed-Mon | Price: adult/reduced €10/8 | Website | Distance: 0.4km
Visiting Museo Fortuny
Punta della Dogana - Pinault Collection

Location: Punta della Dogana, Dorsoduro, Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy | Hours: 10am-7pm Wed-Mon Apr-Nov| Price: adult/reduced €15/10, incl Palazzo Grassi €18/15 | Website | | Distance: 0.5km
Visiting Punta della Dogana - Pinault Collection
Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute

Location: Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute, Dorsoduro, Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy | Hours: 9.30am-noon & 3-5.30pm | Price: Entry to the church is free. sacristy adult/reduced €4/2 | Website | | Distance: 0.5km
Visiting Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute
Mercato di Rialto (Rialto Market)

Location: Mercato di Rialto (Rialto Market), Calle Prima de la Donzella, Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy | Distance: 0.6km
Visiting Mercato di Rialto (Rialto Market)
Basilica dei Santi Giovanni e Paolo

Location: Basilica dei Santi Giovanni e Paolo, Campo S.S. Giovanni e Paolo, Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy | Hours: 8.30am-noon & 3.30-6pm | Distance: 0.6km
Visiting Basilica dei Santi Giovanni e Paolo
Peggy Guggenheim Collection

Location: Peggy Guggenheim Collection, Dorsoduro, Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy | Hours: 10am-6pm Wed-Mon | Price: adult/reduced €15/9 | Website | | Distance: 0.6km
Visiting Peggy Guggenheim Collection
Ponte dell'Accademia

Location: Ponte dell'Accademia, Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy | Hours: 24 Hour | Price: Free | | Distance: 0.7km
Visiting Ponte dell'Accademia
Galleria Giorgio Franchetti alla Ca' d'Oro

Location: Galleria Giorgio Franchetti alla Ca' d'Oro, Calle Ca' d'Oro, Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy | Hours: 8.15am-2pm Mon, to 7.15pm Tue-Sun, 2nd fl 10am-6pm Tue-Sun | Price: adult/reduced €8.50/2 | Website | Distance: 0.7km
Visiting Galleria Giorgio Franchetti alla Ca' d'Oro
Church of San Giorgio Maggiore

Location: Church of San Giorgio Maggiore, Isola di S.Giorgio Maggiore, Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy | Hours: 9am-6pm | Price: bell tower adult/reduced €6/4 | Website | Distance: 0.8km
Visiting Church of San Giorgio Maggiore
Ca' Rezzonico

Location: Ca' Rezzonico, Dorsoduro, Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy | Hours: 10am-5pm Wed-Mon | Price: adult/reduced €10/7.50, or with Museum Pass | Website | | Distance: 0.8km
Visiting Ca' Rezzonico
Basilica S.Maria Gloriosa dei Frari

Location: Basilica di Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari, Venezia, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy | Hours: 9am-6pm Mon-Sat, 1-6pm Sun| Price: adult/reduced €3/1.50, with Chorus Pass free | Website | Distance: 0.8km
Visiting Basilica S.Maria Gloriosa dei Frari
Gallerie dell'Accademia

Location: Gallerie dell'Accademia, Campo della Carità, Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy | Hours: 8.15am-2pm Mon, to 7.15pm Tue-Sun | Price: adult/reduced €12/2 | Website | | Distance: 0.8km
Visiting Gallerie dell'Accademia
San Giacomo dell'Orio

Location: San Giacomo dell'Orio, Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy | Hours: 10.30am-4.30pm Mon-Sat | Price: adult/reduced €3/1.50, with Chorus Pass free | Website | Distance: 0.9km
Visiting San Giacomo dell'Orio
Leonardo da Vinci Museum, Venice

Location: Leonardo da Vinci Museum, Campo San Rocco, Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy | Price: € 8 | Website | | Distance: 0.9km
Visiting Leonardo da Vinci Museum, Venice
Church of Santa Maria Assunta - The Jesuits

Location: Church of Santa Maria Assunta - The Jesuits, Salizada dei Spechieri, Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy | Hours: 10.30am-5.30pm| Price: adult/reduced €5/4, incl museum & campanile €12/10 | Distance: 0.9km
Visiting Church of Santa Maria Assunta - The Jesuits
Scuola Grande di San Rocco

Location: Scuola Grande di San Rocco, Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy | Hours: 9.30am-5.30pm | Price: adult/reduced €10/8 | Website | Scuola Grande di San Rocco Audioguide | Distance: 0.9km
Visiting Scuola Grande di San Rocco
Museo di Storia Naturale di Venezia

Location: Museo di Storia Naturale Giancarlo Ligabue, Salizada del Fontego dei Turchi, Venezia, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy | Natural History Museum Entry Ticket | Distance: 1.0km
Visiting Museo di Storia Naturale di Venezia
Chiesa dei Santi Geremia e Lucia - Santuario di Lucia

Location: Chiesa dei Santi Geremia e Lucia - Santuario di Lucia, Campo San Geremia, Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy | Hours: 9am-1pm & 4.30-5pm Wed-Mon, 2.30-5pm Tue | Website | Distance: 1.2km
Visiting Chiesa dei Santi Geremia e Lucia - Santuario di Lucia
Church of Madonna dell'Orto

Location: Church of Madonna dell'Orto, Cannareggio, Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy | Hours: 10am-5pm Mon-Sat | Price: adult/reduced €3/2 | Website | | Distance: 1.3km
Visiting Church of Madonna dell'Orto
Venetian Arsenal

Location: ARSENALE DI VENEZIA, Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy | Hours: Access is only possible during major events and exhibitions. | | Distance: 1.4km
Visiting Venetian Arsenal
Jewish Museum of Venice

Location: Jewish Museum of Venice, Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy | Hours: 10am-7pm Sun-Fri Jun-Sep, to 5.30pm Sun-Fri Oct-May | Price: adult/reduced €8/6, incl tour €12/10 | Website | Private Tour of the Jewish Ghetto in Venice | Distance: 1.4km
Visiting Jewish Museum of Venice
Giardini della Biennale

Location: Giardini della Biennale, Calle Giazzo, Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy | | Distance: 1.8km
Visiting Giardini della Biennale
Best Day Trips from Venice
A day trip from Venice offers the perfect opportunity to escape the urban rhythm and discover the surrounding region's charm. Whether you're drawn to scenic countryside, historic villages, or cultural landmarks, the area around Venice provides a variety of easy-to-reach destinations ideal for a one-day itinerary. If you are looking to rent a car in Italy I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.
Padova

Visiting Padova
Vicenza

Visiting Vicenza
Ferrara

Visiting Ferrara
Udine

Visiting Udine
Verona

Visiting Verona
Cividale del Friuli

Visiting Cividale del Friuli
Ravenna

Visiting Ravenna
Trieste

Visiting Trieste
Bologna

Visiting Bologna
Modena

Visiting Modena
Where to Stay in Venice
Venice is a city of islands and neighborhoods, each with its own character, making the choice of where to stay an important part of your travel experience. One of the most iconic areas is San Marco, the historic and touristic heart of Venice. Staying here places you steps from landmarks like St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, and the Grand Canal. It’s ideal for first-time visitors who want to be surrounded by architectural splendor and have easy access to vaporetto stops. A classic and luxurious hotel in this district is Hotel Danieli, a Luxury Collection Hotel, known for its grand decor and exceptional views over the lagoon.
For a more local and artistic vibe, Dorsoduro is an excellent choice. This neighborhood is home to museums like the Peggy Guggenheim Collection and Gallerie dell’Accademia, as well as quiet canals and a lively student population. It’s less crowded than San Marco but still central, offering a balanced blend of culture and tranquility. A stylish place to stay here is Ca’ Pisani Hotel, a boutique property with Art Deco charm located near the Accademia Bridge.
If you’re looking for a quieter, romantic atmosphere, Cannaregio offers a more residential experience. This historic district includes the Jewish Ghetto and picturesque canals with authentic Venetian life all around. It’s still within walking distance of major sites but offers more space and better value. A welcoming hotel in this area is Ai Mori d'Oriente Hotel, known for its elegant Moorish-inspired interiors and peaceful location.
Using the our Hotel and Accomodation map, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in Venice. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay.
Venice Accommodation Map
Best Time to Visit Venice
Venice in Spring: March to May (Best)
Spring is the best time to visit Venice. As the weather turns mild, with average temperatures rising from 12°C in March to 20°C in May, the city awakens from winter’s quiet with blooming window boxes and outdoor cafés along the canals. Tourist numbers increase but are still manageable, making it an excellent time to explore both the major sites and hidden corners. A seasonal highlight is Festa della Sensa in May, an ancient ceremony that symbolizes Venice’s marriage to the sea, featuring historical reenactments and a regatta on the lagoon.
Venice in Summer: June to August
Summer in Venice is lively and bright, with long days, warm temperatures, and a bustling tourist scene. Average highs often reach 30°C in July and August. While the atmosphere is festive, it’s also the most crowded and humid time of year. That said, summer is when Venice hosts one of its most spectacular events: the Festa del Redentore in July. This traditional celebration includes fireworks over the lagoon, a temporary bridge to the Redentore Church, and an evening of parties on boats and the waterfront. Despite the heat, summer offers unforgettable cultural and visual experiences.
Venice in Autumn: September to November
Autumn brings cooler air and fewer crowds to Venice. September still offers warm, sunny days ideal for canal-side strolls, while October and November grow increasingly crisp and misty, adding a mysterious beauty to the city’s alleys and waterways. Cultural life thrives during this season with events like the Venice Film Festival, held in early September on the Lido. By November, the acqua alta (high water) phenomenon may occur, causing temporary flooding in low-lying areas like Piazza San Marco—but it also gives visitors a glimpse into Venice’s relationship with the tides.
Venice in Winter: December to February
Winter in Venice is serene and atmospheric, with lower tourist numbers and cool, foggy days that reveal the city’s more introspective side. Temperatures range from 0°C to 7°C, and while snow is rare, the mist rising from the canals adds an ethereal quality to the landscape. The biggest draw of the season is Carnevale di Venezia, which takes place in February and transforms the city into a stage of masks, costumes, and elaborate balls. For those who appreciate fewer crowds, cozy cafés, and rich local cuisine, winter offers a peaceful and dramatic way to experience Venice.
Annual Weather Overview
- January 8°C 50°F
- February 10°C 53°F
- March 14°C 60°F
- April 17°C 66°F
- May 22°C 75°F
- June 26°C 82°F
- July 29°C 88°F
- August 28°C 86°F
- September 24°C 80°F
- October 20°C 71°F
- November 13°C 59°F
- December 8°C 50°F
Festivals held in Venice
How to get to Venice
By Air:
- Venice is served by Marco Polo Airport, located on the mainland about 8 miles from the city. The airport handles flights from major international and European cities.
- From the airport, visitors can take a bus, a taxi, or a water taxi to reach the historic city center. The Alilaguna water bus is a popular choice for a scenic route to the city.
By Train:
- Santa Lucia Train Station is the main gateway for travelers arriving by train. It’s well-connected to major Italian cities like Rome, Milan, and Florence, as well as international destinations. Exiting the train station offers a direct view of the Grand Canal, making for a grand entrance into Venice.
By Car:
- Venice is not accessible by car directly. Travelers arriving by car will need to park at Piazzale Roma or on the mainland in places like Mestre, from where they can take a train, bus, or water taxi into Venice itself.
- If you are looking to rent a car in Italy I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.