Discover Venice: Canals, Historic Monuments and Gondola Rides
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Description
Historical evidence suggests that refugees founded Venice. When Germanic tribes ravaged northern Italy in the 5th century, many mainlanders escaped to this difficult-to-access area on the Adriatic Sea. Over the centuries, the refugee community grew into the most powerful trading port in the Mediterranean. At its peak, Venice counted 3,000 trade ships and 300 navy vessels. After Napoleon's fall, it became part of the Austrian Kingdom of Lombardy-Venetia, but after the uprising in 1848, the city regained its independence. Shortly after, in 1866, Venice was annexed to the Kingdom of Italy. In 1932, the motor and rail bridge between Venice and the mainland opened, helping the city become a top tourist destination. It can be a bit hard to navigate around the city, but don't let that put you off, as this is part of Venice's charm. Leave the other tourists at St Mark's Square and the Rialto Bridge and explore the maze-like little neighbourhoods instead. The most interesting areas and islands are Cannaregio, San Polo/Santa Croce, Dorsoduro, San Marco, and Castello.
Useful information
248,850 (2026)
1 Euro = 100 cents
Police: 112
Carabinieri Force: 113
Fire Brigade: 115
Emergency Medical Service: 118
Shops in Venice are usually open 9am–1pm and 3pm–8pm, with some variations depending on the time of year.
Do & See
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Tourist Information
Frequently Asked Questions
The best time to visit Venice is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is mild, and the city is less crowded than in the peak summer months. These periods also offer a chance to experience local festivals and events without the high tourist season prices.
A stay of 3 to 4 days in Venice is ideal to explore the main attractions such as St. Mark's Basilica, the Doge's Palace, and the Grand Canal, while also allowing time to wander through the lesser-known neighborhoods and take a day trip to nearby islands like Murano and Burano.
Venice offers numerous must-see attractions including St. Mark's Basilica, the Doge's Palace, and the Rialto Bridge. Don't miss a gondola ride on the Grand Canal, visiting the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, and exploring the charming streets of the Dorsoduro district.
The best way to get around Venice is on foot, as the city is compact and pedestrian-friendly. For longer distances, use the vaporetto (water bus) system, which offers convenient routes along the Grand Canal and to the surrounding islands. Gondolas are more for scenic rides than practical transport.
Venice is known for its seafood dishes such as sarde in saor (sweet and sour sardines) and risotto al nero di seppia (squid ink risotto). Be sure to also try cicchetti, small tapas-like snacks served in local bars, and pair them with a glass of local Prosecco.
Venice hosts several notable events, including the Venice Carnival in February, known for its elaborate masks and costumes, and the Venice Film Festival in late August or early September. The Biennale, a major contemporary art exhibition, takes place every two years and is a must-see for art enthusiasts.
Popular day trips from Venice include visiting the islands of Murano, famous for its glassmaking, and Burano, known for its colorful houses and lace-making. Another option is the historic city of Verona, home to Juliet's balcony and a well-preserved Roman arena.
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