![](https://i0.wp.com/eclectictravelguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_4457.jpg?resize=640%2C853&ssl=1)
Ah, Venice. Canals, gondolas, winged lions, and St Mark’s. One of Europe’s most iconic and unique cities, Venice offers travelers a wealth of Medieval and Renaissance palaces. Perhaps the two best words to explain the city to those who haven’t visited are: Opulent and decaying. Venice has become a victim of its own tourist success, and cruises and day trippers make the city a hard place to love. Stick around until evening, however, and you’ll experience the magic that drew millions in before you.
![](https://i0.wp.com/eclectictravelguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_4345.jpg?resize=640%2C853&ssl=1)
Venice is one of Europe’s most famous cities, and consequently one of its most visited. And yet, the vast majority of visitors follow the same path from the cruise ship dock or train station down the grand canal towards St Mark’s Square. The city, while small, has way more to offer than this small strip. I’ll discuss in a later article the logistical challenges to living and visiting Venice due to these circumstances (and the opportunities that arise as a result), but for now here are the basics.
Getting In
Marco Polo Airport is located on the mainland. Its single terminal is large and modern. There are flights from all over Europe, the Middle East, and even a few to North America. To get to Venice from the airport, take Alilaguna boats (€15 one way), which operate on two or three lines into the city via the lagoon. Alternatively, take ATVO or ACTV buses to the bus station at Piazzale Roma.
Budget airlines like Ryanair fly into Treviso Airport, some 30km away from the city. ATVO buses or Barzi Express connect the airport to the city.
Regular trains arrive and depart from Venezia Santa Lucia over a causeway that connects to the mainland. Mestre, the modern development on the mainland, also has a train station. The train journey from Mestre to Santa Lucia takes about 10 minutes. Trains depart from Santa Lucia for Padua (25min), Verona (50min), Bologna (90min), Milan, Rome, Florence, and beyond.
![](https://i0.wp.com/eclectictravelguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_3788.jpg?resize=640%2C853&ssl=1)
Santa Lucia is rather crowded, but has ticket machines, shops, and all the other necessary facilities a train station should have. There are plenty of platform signs and overhead departure times, so navigation is relatively easy. From the station, take a vaporetto from the station out front or walk 45 minutes or so to San Marco.
![](https://i0.wp.com/eclectictravelguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_4594.jpg?resize=640%2C853&ssl=1)
Finally, Venice’s bus station is a large, open-air lot called Piazzale Roma; it is just over the bridge from Santa Lucia train station. Ticket windows are at one side of the lot; use the vaporetto stop in front of the train station or explore deeper into Venice on foot.
Getting Around
Venice is walkable like nowhere else in Europe. As a medieval city with plenty of canals and footbridges, but no cars, your options are limited to your own two feet or a water taxi. Venice is laid out along a series of islands connected by bridges. The Grand Canal divides the city in two, with only four bridges across.
![](https://i0.wp.com/eclectictravelguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_3854.jpg?resize=640%2C480&ssl=1)
With that being said, you are going to get lost. Venice is notoriously difficult to navigate quickly, with its maze-like warren of backstreets and sudden dead ends at canals. Expect to backtrack at least once on the way to your intended destination. The strip from Santa Lucia train station to Piazza San Marco, which takes about 45 minutes to walk, is relatively easy to navigate and quite well signposted.
Oh, and do make an effort not to fall into the canals. Venetian sewer pipes have emptied out into them for centuries.
![](https://i0.wp.com/eclectictravelguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_4494.jpg?resize=640%2C853&ssl=1)
Venice’s vaporetto (public water bus) network runs down the Grand Canal, stopping at various points along the way. Major stops have routes that run out to the Lido (Venice’s beach) and the smaller islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello. Buy tickets from booths at major landings; one ride costs €8, though there are day passes available for purchase as well. Buy tickets from the ticket window or from self-service machines at stops (not all stops have these).
![](https://i0.wp.com/eclectictravelguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_3838.jpg?resize=640%2C480&ssl=1)
![](https://i0.wp.com/eclectictravelguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_3858.jpg?resize=640%2C480&ssl=1)
While you can purchase tickets online, I found both the website and the tickets to be finicky. Best stick to buying in person. If you do want to book online, however, find more info here.
Overtourism
Venice is overcrowded. Cruise tourists and day trippers pack the historic city between 10am and 4pm every day of the year, and you’ll have to dodge tour groups even in low season. Worse still, all those feet are causing serious damage to the city: Venice is sinking. Locals have long been priced out, and the population continues to decline.
![](https://i0.wp.com/eclectictravelguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_3938.jpg?resize=640%2C853&ssl=1)
With this being said, Venice remains a magical experience. You can have a better experience in the city and avoid contributing to these problems by engaging in more thoughtful planning of your vacation. First of all, Venice is much quieter and more relaxed after dark. Cruisers are back on their ship and package tourists back at their mainland hotels. I believe Venice is even better after dark, and few places are safer for a moonlit stroll.
![](https://i0.wp.com/eclectictravelguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_3813.jpg?resize=640%2C853&ssl=1)
Even during the day, you can escape the crowds by navigating the back streets. There aren’t any truly ‘bad neighborhoods’ in Venice, so you can safely dip down an alley to avoid a cruise tour group, for example. Find a point on a map and walk in that direction: you never know what you might find.
An important thing to keep in mind is that many shops and restaurants along the tourist strip are expensive, dishonest, and poor quality. These businesses take money away from local businesses, which provide a higher quality of service and product. Check online to find these local businesses, since they are pretty easy to find.
In terms of petty crime, pickpocketing is pretty rare. Still, be careful and keep valuables close. Don’t buy counterfeit items from vendors, both you and the vendor can be fined thousands of euro. Finally, ignore just about anyone who approaches you for shops, restaurants, or tours. These are nearly always scammers.
St Mark’s Square
St Marks is the grandest square in Venice, located at the heart of the city. The square is surrounded by Renaissance colonnaded palaces on three ends, and by the inspiring St Mark’s Basilica on the other. St Mark’s is one of Europe’s finest public spaces, thriving during the day and magical at night, with a soundtrack provided by the duel orchestras of the myriad cafes ringing the square.
![](https://i0.wp.com/eclectictravelguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_3972.jpg?resize=640%2C853&ssl=1)
Adjacent to St Mark’s is the piazzetta, which continues the public space perpendicular to the Basilica and past the Doge’s Palace until it reaches the edge of the lagoon. The Piazzetta is home to the famous columns, one capped with the Winged Lion, Venice’s main symbol.
St Mark’s Basilica
Venice’s greatest attraction (besides its canals) is this hulking monstrosity of Byzantine domes. First built in the 9th century to house the remains of St Mark (smuggled in from the Holy Land), the current basilica is about 1,000 years old. This makes it one of the oldest churches in Europe, though the near-permanent construction and restoration work will also give you that impression.
![](https://i0.wp.com/eclectictravelguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_4218.jpg?resize=640%2C853&ssl=1)
The exterior of the basilica is dominated by a multitude of domes. There are sculptures pilfered from the Byzantine empire around the entrance, and spectacular mosaics over the entrance.
![](https://i0.wp.com/eclectictravelguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_4357.jpg?resize=640%2C853&ssl=1)
Inside, the basilica is even more incredible. Stunning mosaics cover the inside of the domes, depicting different religious figures and themes. The whole space has an eastern design, rarely seen the West of Europe. This uniqueness comes from its history of trade (and sometimes conflict) with the Byzantine Empire.
![](https://i0.wp.com/eclectictravelguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_4378.jpg?resize=640%2C853&ssl=1)
The basilica is free to enter, but it has some worthwhile paid sections as well. First, the Treasury (€5) showcases the remainder of Venice’s plunder, ranging from ancient gold and silver to Islamic and Byzantine arts. In addition, the Golden Altarpiece (€3) is among the best examples of Byzantine art anywhere. Both are within the ground floor of the basilica.
![](https://i0.wp.com/eclectictravelguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_4422.jpg?resize=640%2C480&ssl=1)
![](https://i0.wp.com/eclectictravelguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_4402.jpg?resize=640%2C853&ssl=1)
St Mark’s Museum (€7 entrance) is upstairs. Here, you can see medieval and ancient art that once decorated the basilica. The highlight is the quartet of Bronze statues that once stood atop the terrace-now replaced by replicas. The 2000-year-old originals are safely inside for visitors to get a good look at.
![](https://i0.wp.com/eclectictravelguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_4420.jpg?resize=640%2C853&ssl=1)
Entrance to the museum also includes access to the terrace, which offers great views of the square.
![](https://i0.wp.com/eclectictravelguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_4436.jpg?resize=640%2C480&ssl=1)
Entry is from 9:30 to 5, to 4:30 in winter. Lines are long to get in, so arrive early or book a slot online (€3), or be prepared to wait.
Campanile
Another important feature of St Mark’s Square is the Campanile, the basilica’s bell tower. It is the tallest structure in Venice, reconstructed in 1912 exactly as it was before a 1902 collapse. The tower stands across from St Mark’s Basilica at the corner of the piazza and the piazzetta.
![](https://i0.wp.com/eclectictravelguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_4431.jpg?resize=640%2C853&ssl=1)
Entry to the Campanile is €8. During summer, you can climb up from 8:30am to 9pm. In winter, opening hours are 9:30 to 5:30. Last entry is 45 minutes before closing time.
Clock Tower
On the other side of the square, adjacent to St Mark’s Basilica, the Clock Tower stands over the entrance to Venice’s main shopping street, connecting the square with the Rialto Bridge. It was built in 1496, and while many changes have been made, many features are original. Visitors can explore the interior and access the terrace for €12.
Palazzo Ducale
The political heart of Venice was the Doge’s Palace. A gothic, colonnaded structure with a pink and white tiled façade, the palace sits right next to the Basilica and takes up one side of the Piazzatta.
![](https://i0.wp.com/eclectictravelguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_4086.jpg?resize=640%2C480&ssl=1)
To enter, you’ll pass through a security check before entering the main courtyard. From here, take a moment to survey the colonnaded passageways on each level above the courtyard.
![](https://i0.wp.com/eclectictravelguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_4084.jpg?resize=640%2C853&ssl=1)
Inside, the salons and halls of the palace are lavishly decorated. Exquisite paintings cover the walls and ceilings of the Senate chambers, though less remains in the Doge’s Apartments. The Senate Hall features Tintoretto’s ‘Triumph of Venice’ on the ceiling, while the Grand Council Hall is dominated by Tintoretto’s ‘Paradise’; the latter is one of the largest canvas paintings in the world. These are the greatest works within the palace, so allow plenty of time to take them both in.
![](https://i0.wp.com/eclectictravelguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_4105.jpg?resize=640%2C853&ssl=1)
The Doge’s Palace is open from 8:30 to 7, to 5:30 in winter. Entry is €25, which includes additional entry to the Museo Correr located on the other end of St Mark’s Square. Book online here to avoid lengthy ticket queues onsite. Go first thing in the morning or later in the afternoon to minimize crowds.
![](https://i0.wp.com/eclectictravelguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_4197.jpg?resize=640%2C853&ssl=1)
Bridge of Sighs
Venice’s other famous bridge connects the Doge’s Palace and courts to the former prison. The legend goes that prisoners would be convicted in the palace courts, then promptly marched to their prison cells via this bridge, which contained a window. Prisoners would take one last look at the majesty of the lagoon, and sigh in despair.
![](https://i0.wp.com/eclectictravelguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_4231.jpg?resize=640%2C853&ssl=1)
You can walk through the bridge when visiting the Doge’s Palace. After seeing the palace, turn left and walk further down the waterfront to see the bridge from the outside. Be warned, however: this is one of the most iconic, and thus crowded, points in all of Venice. Expect to see mobs of selfie stick-wielding tourists clamoring for a photo.
![](https://i0.wp.com/eclectictravelguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_4322-1.jpg?resize=640%2C853&ssl=1)
Museo Correr
This interesting museum is located at one end of St Mark’s Square, in the Napoleonic-era section of the palaces that ring the space. The collection is upstairs, just past a security check. Entrance is €25, and also includes entrance to the Doge’s Palace.
![](https://i0.wp.com/eclectictravelguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_3973.jpg?resize=640%2C480&ssl=1)
The museum offers visitors a less-crowded experience, with a great collection of Venetian art, artifacts, and plunder. Some items on display include the Doge’s personal effects, armor, statues, war loot, maps, and ship reconstructions. In addition to these, Museo Correr houses a large collection of work from the famous sculptor Canova.
![](https://i0.wp.com/eclectictravelguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_3987.jpg?resize=640%2C480&ssl=1)
![](https://i0.wp.com/eclectictravelguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_4022.jpg?resize=640%2C480&ssl=1)
![](https://i0.wp.com/eclectictravelguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_4037.jpg?resize=640%2C853&ssl=1)
![](https://i0.wp.com/eclectictravelguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_4052.jpg?resize=640%2C853&ssl=1)
Museo Correr is open from 10 to 7, and from 10 to 5:30 November-March. If the ticket line at the Doge’s Palace is long, stop here first, since the line will very likely be much shorter. The museum is a great option for busy days, rainy days, or just to get a view of the square from the second floor.
Canal Grande
Venice’s main throughfare is made of water instead of brick or asphalt. The canal divides the city in two, and just four bridges connect one side to the other. Lavish medieval or renaissance facades line the waterfront; some of the best examples are along the stretch from the train station to the Rialto Bridge.
![](https://i0.wp.com/eclectictravelguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_3882.jpg?resize=640%2C853&ssl=1)
![](https://i0.wp.com/eclectictravelguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_4291.jpg?resize=640%2C853&ssl=1)
The best way to see the Canal Grande is, understandably enough, from the water. Vaporetti, Venice’s water taxi system, has stops at various points along the canal. Not only do you board or alight at the stops, but they also usually provide great views of the canal. Why not take a photo or two while waiting for the next vaporetto to arrive? The best way to get a view of the canal, however, is to actually take a vaporetto.
![](https://i0.wp.com/eclectictravelguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_4461.jpg?resize=640%2C853&ssl=1)
Rialto Bridge
Venice’s most famous bridge is this iconic stone structure that crosses the Grand Canal. A bridge has stood here for over 1,000 years, but the current majestic version dates to the 16th century.
![](https://i0.wp.com/eclectictravelguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_3937.jpg?resize=640%2C480&ssl=1)
Rialto Bridge has a covered portico containing shops in the middle, with ramps leading up on each side. When crossing, be sure to take in the views down the Grand Canal. You certainly won’t be alone, as it is one of the city’s selfie-taking hotspots. However, people congregate here for a reason, and the view certainly is beautiful.
In addition to the bridge, Rialto is famous for its market. Not only is the fresh produce market a great place for a cheap lunch, but the area also features a string of cheap sandwich shops. Just remember you can’t take whatever you get to St Mark’s Square for a picnic, since doing so will invoke a heavy fine.
Santa Maria della Salute
Set dramatically across the lagoon from San Marco, Santa Maria della Salute is one of the best churches to visit in Venice. Its magnificent, gleaming white dome stands out along the skyline from its waterfront location. In addition to the Campanile, Rialto Bridge, and St Mark’s, Santa Maria della Salute is one of Venice’s most iconic landmarks.
![](https://i0.wp.com/eclectictravelguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_4464.jpg?resize=640%2C853&ssl=1)
The church was built in 1630 in honor of the Virgin Mary after Venice was finally relieved of the ongoing outbreak of plague. Upon entering, you’ll immediately be struck by the unique octagonal layout. There are eight chapels ringing the central nave (which sits right below the dome), one for each wall.
![](https://i0.wp.com/eclectictravelguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_4467.jpg?resize=640%2C853&ssl=1)
![](https://i0.wp.com/eclectictravelguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_4473.jpg?resize=640%2C853&ssl=1)
You can enter the church for free and explore the nave. To enter the sacristy, which has several works by Tintoretto and Titian, you’ll need to pay €4. The church is open from 9:30am to noon and again from 3pm to 5:30pm.
Scuolo Grande di San Rocco
Many of Venice’s greatest churches and palaces feature work by Tintoretto, one of the city’s greatest painters. Scuolo Grandi di San Rocco, the 15th century headquarters of a religious order, is home to the greatest of his works.
![](https://i0.wp.com/eclectictravelguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_4497.jpg?resize=640%2C480&ssl=1)
The Scuolo Grandi di San Rocco features Tintoretto’s spectacular Old Testament and New Testament cycles on the ceiling and walls of its grand hall. In addition to the paintings, the room is decorated from floor to ceiling with gilded trimmings and wood carvings. There’s even a handy mirror in the grand hall so you don’t have to strain your neck looking at the ceiling.
![](https://i0.wp.com/eclectictravelguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_4506.jpg?resize=640%2C853&ssl=1)
![](https://i0.wp.com/eclectictravelguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_4521.jpg?resize=640%2C480&ssl=1)
Scuolo Grande di San Rocco is about a 10-minute walk from the train station. Entry is €10. Opening hours are 9:30 to 5:30, and last entry is at 5pm.
Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari
The austere exterior of this warehouse-like space hides a treasure trove of art from some of Venice’s finest artists. Inside, the cavernous Gothic nave is lined with marble chapels and an astounding array of in situ works.
![](https://i0.wp.com/eclectictravelguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_3896.jpg?resize=640%2C853&ssl=1)
The ornate altar at the front of the church showcases Titian’s ‘Assumption’, which depicts the Virgin Mary ascending to heaven. Bellini’s ‘Madonna with Child’ triptych stands in a chapel off to the right side of the altar. The space feels very open and bring thanks to the windows lining the walls.
![](https://i0.wp.com/eclectictravelguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_3900.jpg?resize=640%2C853&ssl=1)
Frari Church has some of the best ‘in situ’ art of any church in Venice. Download an audioguide to your phone or rent one with your ticket (€2) to get the most out of your visit. Entrance to the church is €3. Opening hours are 9 to 6, or 1 to 6 on Sundays.
Santa Maria dei Miracoli
Santa Maria dei Miracoli is located in Cannaregio, a neighborhood to the north of San Marco. Since it isn’t directly on the main tourist throughfare, both the neighborhood and the church are much quieter.
![](https://i0.wp.com/eclectictravelguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_4340.jpg?resize=640%2C853&ssl=1)
The church is small but constructed out of attractive marble. It was built in the 15th century in early renaissance style. Inside, Santa Maria dei Miracoli is arranged in a single nave. The barrel vault ceiling is inlaid with 50 portraits of various prophets. An ornamental staircase leads up to the altar.
![](https://i0.wp.com/eclectictravelguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_4343.jpg?resize=640%2C853&ssl=1)
Entry to Santa Maria dei Miracoli is €3. The church is open Monday-Saturday from 10:30-4:30, but is closed on Sundays.
Chiesa di San Zaccaria
This church, just off the waterfront and nearby Piazza San Marco, stands at the edge of a small square. Many tour groups pass through, but only a few actually go inside. Because of this, you can stop in to take a breather from the busy atmosphere of San Marco.
![](https://i0.wp.com/eclectictravelguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_4320.jpg?resize=640%2C853&ssl=1)
Chiesa di San Zaccaria was built in 15th century in the Gothic style. It stands next to the remains of a church of the same name built in the 1170s. Its grand arched façade is quite eye-catching, especially with the Renaissance columns added later. Inside, the church’s greatest treasure is its Bellini altarpiece.
San Zaccaria is free to enter, though you may consider donating a few euro for the church’s preservation. Opening hours are 10am to noon and 4pm to 6pm, or 4pm to 6pm on Sundays.
Teatro La Fenice
Venice’s finest and most famous opera house, Teatro La Fenice has burned down three times, most recently in 1996, and has been rebuilt after each. Most recently reopening in 2004, the name very fittingly translates to ‘The Phoenix’. The theater saw premiers of operas by such famous composers as Verdi, Bellini, and Rossini.
The façade is very impressive, so be sure to stop by and see it in passing, at the very least. If you have some more time, buy a ticket (€10), which comes with an audio guide, and see the lavish décor inside. Finally, consider visiting the theatre for its intended purpose and catch a performance. Check online here for more information.
Libreria Acqua Alta
Venice’s most unique bookstore is Libreria Acqua Alta. Named for the frequent floods that hit the city (Venice is sinking), the shop’s owner displays books a variety of waterproof vessels, ranging from boats to bathtubs.
![](https://i0.wp.com/eclectictravelguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_3949.jpg?resize=640%2C853&ssl=1)
While interesting, Acqua Alta gets very crowded. Uncomfortably crowded, even. The back garden is pleasant, and there’s a staircase that promises a ‘good view’. However, this spot has become an influencer zone, so expect a long line of people waiting to get a picture here.
Libreria Acqua Alta is open from 9am to 8pm. Visit first thing in the morning, or after 5pm when the cruise passengers are back on board to avoid the crowds.
Accademia Gallery
Venice has just as long and vibrant a history of art as Florence or Rome, but for some reason its artists are less known. Tintoretto, Veronese, and Titian have works all over the city, but the Accademia Gallery is a great place to see these and other Venetian artists on display. The collection of local art ranges from the 14th century to the 19th century.
Find the gallery across from San Marco via the wooden Accademia Bridge, one of only four to cross the Grand Canal in the whole city. Avoid busy times (midday, rainy days, etc.), or book online to avoid waiting in a queue to enter. Entry tickets are €15. Opening hours are 8:15am to 7:15pm. The gallery closes at 2pm on Mondays.
A Word on Gondolas
Venice and gondolas go together. Is there anything more iconic than a moonlit ride through the city’s canals? Unfortunately, this comes with a price. That price is €80 for a 35-minute ride. The price increases to €100 for a 35-minute ride after dark. I won’t tell you not to pay for the gondola ride, but you should consider the value, and whether it is worth it to you.
![](https://i0.wp.com/eclectictravelguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_4345-1.jpg?resize=640%2C853&ssl=1)
If you do decide to hire a ride, you won’t have to look far: gondoliers hang out all over the city at stands by the water’s edge. Gondolas seat six, but are most romantic with just two. Why not splash out for the entire gondola if you’ve come all the way to Venice, after all?
Budget travelers can eschew the high costs associated with a private gondolas by going for the public traghetti instead. Traghetti are gondola ferries that cross the Grand Canal during the day. Remember, there are just four bridges spaced out along the entire canal. Not only can you save time by taking a traghetto, but you can also get your gondola fix. Best of all? You’ll pay just €2 for the minute-long experience.
Final Thoughts
There truly is no place quite like Venice. Whether you have only a single day or an entire week, you’ll want to return to explore even more of the city. As Europe’s most complete medieval city, Venice brings visitors back to the past like nowhere else. While some guidebooks recommend only a night or two in Venice, I suggest staying three nights. Not only will this give you plenty of time to see the highlights of the city, but you’ll also have time to get well off the beaten track, and see a more authentic Venice.
![](https://i0.wp.com/eclectictravelguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_4461.jpg?resize=640%2C853&ssl=1)
Do proper research and plan a bit ahead, and you’ll begin to wonder whether you and the throngs of group tours are experiencing the same city at all. While it is certainly very crowded, and in trouble of becoming a ‘Disneyland’ rather than a true city, Venice absolutely belongs on any traveler’s bucket list.