Venice is unutterably unique, a fairytale city sprinkled across an archipelago of islands awash with history and perennially threatened with sinking beneath the waves altogether. I’ve been dozens of times and on this last visit really ‘did’ the Divine Republic in style. Here is how you can follow suit….
Friday
Midday – Venice offers some world class hotels, none better than the truly spectacular new Aman Venice. A maximum of just 24 guests enjoy this expansive palazzo right on the Grand Canal.
1pm – Kick off your Venice stay gently with a refreshing Aperol Spritz and light lunch at the Aman whether you are staying or not. Their expansive garden offers views out on to the Grand Canal.
2.30pm – Jump on a vaporetto water bus and enjoy a perfect view of the Grand Canal as you saunter along this great aquatic artery between the railway station and St Mark’s Square.
3.30pm – Immerse yourself in the grand history of the Venetian Republic by visiting St Mark’s Basilica, taking in the view from the campanile and strolling among the doges at the Doge’s Palace.
7pm – Venice is a bit short on budget restaurants, but they do a mean pizza at Anfora. They kick off around €5 with almost 50 topping options.
8.30pm – Stroll across to Nico where you can pick up an ice cream or relax with something more decadent on their waterfront terrace.
Saturday
9am – Grab a vaporetto day ticket and explore the lagoon. Shop for glass on Murano before relaxing on sleepy Torcello, with its epic cathedral.
1.30pm – Catch a vaporetto across to Mazzorbo where the superb Venissa awaits. Sample the wine made from an ancient Venetian grape in the osteria by the vines, or splash out in their Michelin star restaurant.
6.30pm – Enjoy a light dinner of chiccetti (the local tapas) at Naranzaria with a view of the Rialto Bridge.
8pm – Take a pew at Gran Caffe Quadri. This grand old St Mark’s Square dame is not cheap, but the experience is sublime.
Sunday
9am – Take it easy strolling around the Sunday morning streets of San Polo around the hotel or even easier with a massage at the Aman’s spa.
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Best For – Broad spectrum, from romantic couples and city slickers, and on to adventurous families looking for more than a beach holiday. Stag and hen parties should avoid as the nightlife is fairly sedate. Budget travellers don’t fret.
McKelvie’s Cities Rating – 17/20. A truly world class city break destination despite the crowds.
Read More From Me– Top Tips for a Family Holiday in Venice for Skyscanner, Top 8 Budget Restaurants in Venice for Skyscanner, Sunday Post Venice.
Getting There – I flew with easyJet from Edinburgh, via London Stansted. Fly with them and you can see my Ljubljana city guide in their in-flight magazine.
I travel a lot and have used 100s of websites. One kills it for me with flights – Skyscanner. I’m not just saying that because like me they are based in Edinburgh! I love that they charge no commission and search budget and scheduled carriers. See for yourself by clicking below.
Tourist Information – Venice Tourist Office
