Venice: canals, culture
and cuisine
Book flights to Venice and dive into atmospheric Italy. From cobbled streets to winding canals, there’s an abundance of charm to discover in this fascinating city.
Soak up Venice’s culture in Piazza San Marco or the Ca’ Pesaro International Gallery of Modern Art.
Take a water taxi to explore the smaller waterways and more peaceful areas of the city in the most authentic way possible, with enchanting discoveries waiting around every corner.
If you love to shop then Venice is home to a multitude of Italian designer clothes and premium leather goods.
You’ll find plenty of boutiques around many corners throughout the city, alongside souvenir shops.
Check out Venetian antiques, local handicrafts and jewellery, as well as fresh produce in the local stores. Whatever your interests, fly to Venice for a trip full of culture, romance and atmosphere.
Reasons to visit Venice
Alluring architecture
Venice is a city bursting with incredible buildings dating from centuries ago. Your Italian itinerary should consist of a trip to St. Mark’s Basilica and Palazzo Grimani, both built in the 9th century.
Admire the abundance of domes that make up St. Mark’s Basilica and marvel at the 8,000 square metres of gleaming mosaics. The cathedral was built to house the body of St. Mark after Venetian traders trafficked it out of Egypt.
A little off the beaten track, Palazzo Grimani is sure to delight. It provides an extraordinary insight into 16th-century Venice.
Take to the canals
Hop aboard a gondola for one of the best ways to explore the floating city. The gondolas gliding up and down the Grand Canal and smaller waterways of Venice is one of the most iconic images in the world.
Travel the world-renowned canals for a romantic trip for two or just as a great way to see much of the city. The Grand Canal is a rambling two-mile stretch through the city, lined with waterfront eateries, magnificent buildings and quaint cafes. Remember to pack your camera for some fantastic photos of Venice from its waters.
Enjoy hearty Venetian cuisine
Italy is famous for its food, and Venice is no exception. Try its local cuisine and decadent desserts as you look out across its beautiful streets and waterways when dining al fresco.
The Venetians have a soft spot for seafood, a favourite being squid ink risotto or pasta. Ladled up with fresh fish and topped with spring onion, this is the true taste of Venice.
If you’ve got a sweet tooth then tuck into Venetian tiramisu. This dessert – made of sponge fingers, coffee and mascarpone cheese – is believed to originate from the city. Finish off with another Venetian favourite – an aromatic espresso coffee.
Flying to Venice: FAQs
Where should I stay in Venice?
There’s a wide range of accommodation in Venice, ranging from 5-star hotels to more boutique stays. Many hotels are situated either in or next to old palaces and can be very atmospheric.
What language is spoken in Venice?
Italian is the national language of Italy and therefore Venice. However, you’ll find that many people speak English in the city, especially in the tourist areas.
What is Venice famous for?
Venice is famous for its lagoon, masks, palaces, small streets, lack of traffic and winding waterways. The ‘City of Water’, as Venice is commonly known, is also renowned as Europe’s biggest marine power. It ruled overall trade in the Mediterranean for a couple of centuries.
How many days should I spend in Venice?
You can easily spend up to a week in this beautiful city. A three-night stay will enable you to see such sights as St. Mark’s Square, Doge’s Palace and the city’s superb art galleries like the Gallerie dell’Accademia. You’ll also have time to discover the canals of Dorsoduro or Cannaregio and an opera at La Fenice. You can also catch a boat to Murano – an island renowned for incredible glass-making.