Venice Hotels

Going out and dining in Venice

Venice offers a rich blend of dining experiences and nightlife, whether you’re seeking authentic local cuisine or a lively evening by the canals.

Dining in Venice

Venice is famed for its cicchetti—Venetian small plates—often enjoyed with a glass of wine or a spritz at one of the city’s many bacari (traditional wine bars). For an authentic experience, head to areas like Cannaregio or Dorsoduro, where you’ll find local eateries that offer fresh seafood, risottos, and pasta dishes, such as spaghetti alle vongole or the iconic squid ink pasta. Avoid the tourist-heavy spots near St. Mark’s Square and explore quieter neighbourhoods where locals dine.

• Top tip: Visit the Rialto Market to sample local delicacies or pick up fresh ingredients for a picnic.

• Must-try dishes: Cicchetti, sarde in saor, seafood risotto.

Nightlife in Venice

Venice may be quieter compared to other Italian cities, but it still offers unique nightlife experiences. For a casual night out, explore the wine bars of Cannaregio, where you can enjoy craft beers, local wines, and a buzzing atmosphere. If you're into live music, the Venice Jazz Club in Dorsoduro is a popular spot for jazz lovers. For something more sophisticated, enjoy a cocktail at the historic Harry’s Bar, known for creating the famous Bellini.

• Top tip: Take a nighttime walk across the Rialto Bridge for a stunning view of the Grand Canal lit up in the evening.

• Must-visit spots: Venice Jazz Club, Harry’s Bar, Vino Vero.

Venice’s dining and nightlife scene is a blend of laid-back charm and cultural sophistication, offering something for every traveller.

Top attractions in Venice

Venice is a city brimming with iconic landmarks and unforgettable experiences. Whether you're interested in history, art, or simply soaking up the city's unique atmosphere, here are some must-see attractions.

St. Mark’s Basilica

Located in Piazza San Marco, St. Mark’s Basilica is one of Venice’s most famous landmarks. This architectural masterpiece, with its golden mosaics and Byzantine design, dates back to the 9th century. Inside, you’ll find the stunning Pala d’Oro, a gold altar screen adorned with thousands of gems, and access to the terrace provides breathtaking views over St. Mark’s Square.

Doge’s Palace and the Bridge of Sighs

A visit to Doge’s Palace takes you through the history of Venice's political power. Once the residence of the Doge, this Gothic palace is filled with artwork by Venetian masters like Tintoretto and Veronese. Don’t miss the chance to walk across the Bridge of Sighs, where prisoners glimpsed their last view of Venice before imprisonment.

Rialto Bridge

The iconic Rialto Bridge is one of Venice’s most popular attractions. Spanning the Grand Canal, this marble bridge offers stunning views of the city’s waterways. The bridge itself is lined with shops selling jewellery, Murano glass, and other Venetian souvenirs.

Gondola Rides and the Grand Canal

No trip to Venice is complete without a gondola ride through the city’s narrow canals. For a truly Venetian experience, opt for a ride that takes you through the quieter, smaller canals, as well as along the majestic Grand Canal, where you can admire the historic palazzos that line the water.

Venice is packed with attractions that cater to all interests, from history buffs to art lovers, ensuring a memorable holiday in this floating city.

Where to stay in Venice

Venice is divided into several unique neighbourhoods, each offering a different experience for travellers. Whether you're a first-time visitor, travelling with family, or looking for a budget-friendly stay, there’s a perfect area for everyone.

For first-time visitors: San Marco

The heart of Venice, San Marco, is where you’ll find iconic landmarks such as St. Mark’s Basilica and the Rialto Bridge. This central area is perfect for first-time visitors who want to be close to all the main attractions and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. However, it can be busy and a bit pricier, so plan accordingly.

• Best for: Sightseeing, first-time visitors.

• What to expect: Iconic landmarks, historic buildings, and a lively atmosphere.

For budget travellers: Cannaregio

If you're travelling on a budget, Cannaregio is an excellent option. This district offers a more authentic Venetian experience with fewer crowds and a more local vibe. It's home to Venice's historic Jewish Ghetto and plenty of budget-friendly hotels and restaurants. Cannaregio also offers easy access to public transport, making it a convenient base.

• Best for: Budget travellers, local experiences.

• What to expect: Affordable accommodation, local markets, historic charm.

For families: Castello

For families seeking a quieter stay, Castello is a fantastic choice. It’s a spacious district with plenty of open areas for children to enjoy. The eastern part of Castello is quieter, providing a more relaxed atmosphere while still being within walking distance of major attractions. Plus, it’s close to the beautiful Biennale Gardens and museums.

• Best for: Families, quiet stays.

• What to expect: Relaxed vibe, open spaces, close to museums.

For art lovers and nightlife: Dorsoduro

Dorsoduro is the cultural hub of Venice, known for its art galleries, including the Peggy Guggenheim Collection. It's also home to lively nightlife, with plenty of bars and restaurants. Dorsoduro offers a balance between culture and entertainment, making it ideal for art lovers and night owls.

• Best for: Art lovers, nightlife.

• What to expect: Art galleries, museums, lively bars.

For a peaceful retreat: Giudecca

For those looking to escape the crowds, Giudecca offers a peaceful retreat while still being close to Venice’s main attractions. Located just across the canal from San Marco, this area provides stunning views of the city and a more laid-back atmosphere.

• Best for: Peaceful retreats, couples.

• What to expect: Quiet, scenic views, easy access to central Venice via Vaporetto.

Each area in Venice offers something unique, so no matter what kind of trip you're planning, you’ll find the perfect place to stay. Let us help you find the best hotels in Venice for your next unforgettable getaway!

Go shopping in Venice

Escaping from the traditional tourist routes, the city of Venice holds a realm of shopping opportunities just waiting to be discovered. Synonymous with unique creativity, astounding craftsmanship, and world-class tailoring, it has been celebrated as a shopper's oasis, offering an incredible panorama of purchases.

One of the most famous shopping areas is the area surrounding Ponte di Rialto, a location that has been a trade hotspot for centuries. Streets such as Merceria and Salizzada San Lio, paved with centuries-old cobblestones, double as showcases for the latest Italian fashion, prestigious international brands and homegrown crafts whose quality is undeniable.

Economic areas to consider when shopping can be found in several corners of the city. Calle della Mandola and Frezzeria, although not as well-known as some other Venetian streets, provide plenty of outlets offering more reasonable prices. Small fashion boutiques, antiques dealers, bookshops and galleries can be found nestled amongst the city's architecture, each with a unique array of goods on display.

Primarily known for its artisan crafts, Venice offers a spectacular range of local souvenirs to bring back. Glass from Murano, renowned worldwide, takes shape in skilled hands to become vases, chandeliers, and countless other objects of rare beauty. Masks, often elaborately decorated, are an iconic element of Venetian culture, while handmade lace from Burano Island and intricately made jewellery reflect the high-quality craftsmanship of the city's artisans. Not to be overlooked are the marvellous paper products offered in the city's praised stationery stores – an homage to a city famous for its literature and writing prowess.

Unearthing the shopping treasures of Venice can lead to myriad fond memories. Each handmade mask or piece of Murano glass contains a story waiting to be told, each crafted item a testament to the hands that shaped it. Exploring Venice's shopping scene is not only a quest for goods, but also a journey into a vibrant cultural ethos. These opportunities for retail exploration provide a window into the soul of this magical city, offering an experience that goes far beyond a simple buying transaction. It’s a chance to really delve into the spirit of Venice, and take a piece of it home.