Transportation Options
- By Air
- Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE)
- Located 13 km from city center
- Direct water taxi or bus to Venice
- Airlines: Alitalia, EasyJet, Lufthansa
- By Train
- Venice Santa Lucia Station
- Direct connections from major European cities
- Trains from Rome: 3.5-4 hours
- Trains from Milan: 2.5 hours
- By Car
- Park at Piazzale Roma or Tronchetto parking areas
- No cars allowed in Venice’s historic center
Top Attractions
Must-See Landmarks
- St. Mark’s Basilica (Basilica di San Marco)
- Stunning Byzantine architecture
- Free entry to main church
- Separate ticket for museum and treasury
- Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale)
- Historic royal residence
- Guided tours available
- Includes Bridge of Sighs
- Grand Canal
- Primary waterway
- Best viewed by gondola or water taxi
- Lined with historic palaces
Historic Districts
- Rialto Bridge area
- San Marco Square
- Cannaregio District
- Dorsoduro neighborhood
Unique Experiences
- Gondola ride (45-60 minutes)
- Murano glass-blowing workshop
- Burano island visit
- Venice Biennale art exhibition
- Mask-making workshops
Accommodation Options
Budget
- Hostels in Cannaregio: €30-50/night
- Budget hotels: €80-120/night
Mid-Range
- 3-star hotels: €120-250/night
- Boutique hotels near Grand Canal
- Areas: San Marco, Dorsoduro
Luxury
- 5-star canal-side hotels
- Historical palace hotels
- Prices: €400-1000/night
Dining Recommendations
- Seafood restaurants in Cannaregio
- Cicchetti (Venetian tapas) bars
- Avoid tourist traps near main squares
- Try local specialties: risotto al nero di seppia, baccalà
Travel Tips
- Best seasons: April-June, September-October
- Avoid August (crowded, expensive)
- Purchase Venice City Pass for attractions
- Learn basic Italian phrases
- Comfortable walking shoes essential
- Water transportation is primary mode of travel
Budget Considerations
- Daily budget: €100-250
- Gondola ride: €80-100
- Museum entries: €20-30 each
- Meal costs: €15-40 per person
