What to do in Venice
There is truly no other city like Venice.
It is a beautiful, vibrant city that the two of us have been lucky enough to live near for the last two years.
Our highest recommendation would be to spend a day or two just wandering the many canals and getting lost in the small streets and alleys. You’re very likely to stumble across a number of lovely little cafes, adorable novelty shops, exquisite boutiques or eateries.
However, we realize some of you may want a little more structured experience. For our planners, here are a few of our favourite sites and activities as well as local restaurants for a fabulous meal or simply a quick bite.
Sites & Activities
ST MARKS SQUARE
The Hotel Monaco is only a 5 minute walk from one
of Venice’s most famous sights – St Marks Square.
Here you can tour the Palazzo Ducale,
the Basilica di San Marco, or climb the Campanile
di San Marco. If you plan to tour any of these,
we definitely recommend booking in advance as
the queues for same day entry can be very long.
Otherwise, the square itself is a beautiful place
to have a stroll, take in the beautiful architecture,
and maybe enjoy a spritz or three. The drinks here
are on the pricier side, but we think it’s worth it
for the amazing atmosphere and live music.
Our top recommendation would be Caffè Florian,
a historic coffee house which dates back to the 18th Century and has been frequented by artists, writers, and intellectuals such as Lord Byron,
Charles Dickens, & Goethe.
MURANO ISLAND
Famous for its handmade glass, Murano Island
is well worth a visit if you have time.
You can tour one of the factories, watch local glassmiths create glass sculptures, and explore
their expansive gift shop.
With a 50 minute ride, The ‘Blue line (B)’ water
bus stop at S. Marco station right outside
the Hotel Monaco will drop you off at
Murano Island along the route to the
Marco Polo Airport.
RIALTO BRIDGE
This was the first major crossing over Venice’s Grand Canal and one of the most iconic Venetian landmarks. Originally a floating pontoon bridge built
in the 12th century it was rebuilt several times before the current stone structure was completed in 1591. There are shops on the bridge itself which are worth checking out as well as bars and restaurants which line the canal on either side of the bridge if you’d like to sit and enjoy the view!
PASTA MAKING
Possibly our favourite activity we’ve done in Venice, learn how to make fresh pasta from local Venetian!
It is a surprisingly simple process and a valuable skill for anyone who enjoys home cooking.
We booked our class through Viator.com and had
an incredible host who not only taught us about pasta-making, but also about the unique experience of growing up and living in Venice.
GONDOLA RIDE
Arguably the most iconic tourist attraction in Venice, it’s a must do when exploring the island.
A 30-minute tour costs a flat fee of €90 with the boats seating up to five people. It’s easy to spot
the Gondola stations dotted along the canals all throughout the city. Lucky for all of you, there is a Gondola station right outside the Hotel Monaco
so you can’t miss it!
Food & Drinks
OSTERIA ENOTECA
One of our favourite restaurants in Venice is just round the corner from the Hotel Monaco and serves tasty Italian food for lunch and dinner.
CLUB DEL DOGE
If you are looking for something more upmarket, we had a delicious lunch at Club Del Doge. Gorgeously decorated with a lovely terrace overlooking the grand canal, it is worth making a reservation in advance if you decide to give it a try.
Club del Doge
VINO VERO
Definitely what most would describe as a ‘hole in the wall,’ this wine bar has an extensive selection of wines with its “off the beaten path” location tucked along a quiet canal.
Vino Vero
OSTERIA AI PUGNI
The first little wine bar/Osteria we ever visited in Venice! This small place has a lovely atmosphere if you want a quick bite or a glass of wine.
A short walk from the hotel will take you to this location over the Grand Canal via the Accademia bridge.
Osteria ai Pugni
HARRY’S BAR
One of the most famous bars in Venice is right across from the hotel Monaco. The Italian Ministry of Cultural Heritage declared it a national landmark in 2001. So if you decide to pop in for a drink, you’ll be joining a long list of fabulous clientele such as Katherine Hepburn, Orson Wells, and Ernest Hemingway!
BACARO JAZZ
If you are looking for late night drinks, our top recommendation would be Bacaro Jazz bar. It’s a fun and quirky space which is open until 2am, perfect place to work on your pre-wedding hangover!
GELATO
Hot take – Gelato is superior to ice cream.
Though we have both fully gotten on board the Gelato train since moving here, we don’t have a specific gelateria recommendation.
Needless to say, despite the wedding being in November, you absolutely must find time to try some. With several peppered throughout the city, you won’t be able to resist the temptation!