Discover Venice, Italy: The Hawaii Girl Life Ultimate Guide to Exploring the Floating City

Venice, Italy. It’s one of the most enchanting and unique cities in the world and one that had been on my husband’s bucket list for a long while before we finally booked our tickets there for the first time. If only I knew how life-changing a visit to Venice was, I’d have visited long ago. Known for its winding canals, historic architecture, and vibrant culture, Venice attracts millions of visitors each year. Whether you’re admiring the grandeur of St. Mark’s Basilica, drifting along the Grand Canal, or enjoying a peaceful gondola ride, Venice offers a magical experience like no other.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best things to do in Venice, tips for navigating the city, and essential travel advice to help you make the most of your trip to this floating city. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, Venice is sure to leave you with lasting memories. So come along with me and see Venice through the eyes of this Hawaii girl!

1. Top Attractions in Venice, Italy

No trip to Venice is complete without the most famous attractions that I’ll outline below. That said, you may or may not choose to visit them again on each return visit to Venice (if you’re anything like me, you will fall hard for this city and be back before you know it). But for first-timers, I had to include these on the list:

St. Mark’s Basilica (Basilica di San Marco)
No trip to Venice is complete without visiting St. Mark’s Basilica, with its golden mosaics and intricate architecture, a masterpiece of Byzantine, Gothic, and Romanesque art. Make sure to visit the Piazza San Marco (St. Mark’s Square), where the basilica stands, and soak in the lively atmosphere of the area.
Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale)
Next to St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace is a must-see for history lovers. This grand Gothic building once served as the residence of the Doge (the ruler of Venice) and is now a museum showcasing Venetian art, history, and politics. Don’t miss the chance to cross the Bridge of Sighs, which connects the palace to the former prison. This is also a great photo opportunity, so be sure to have your camera ready!

Grand Canal (Canal Grande)
The Grand Canal is Venice’s main waterway and offers a unique perspective of the city. Take a vaporetto (water bus) ride along the canal to admire the beautiful palaces, bridges, and historic buildings lining the banks. Alternatively, experience the romance of Venice with a gondola ride through the smaller canals.
Rialto Bridge
One of the most famous landmarks in Venice, the Rialto Bridge spans the Grand Canal and connects the districts of San Marco and San Polo. The bridge offers stunning views of the canal, and the surrounding area is home to a vibrant market where you can shop for fresh produce, seafood, and local goods.

Piazza San Marco (St. Mark’s Square)
Piazza San Marco is the heart of Venice. It’s the perfect place to relax and people-watch, enjoy a coffee at one of the historic cafes (such as the magnificent Caffè Florian which opened in 1720), or listen to the live music played by orchestras later in the day. Don’t forget to visit the Campanile di San Marco (St. Mark’s Bell Tower) for panoramic views of the city.

2. Hidden Gems of Venice: Discovering the Lesser-Known Sights

Now this is my personal cup of tea! While the main attractions in Venice are not to be missed, there are also many lesser-known spots that offer a more intimate and off-the-beaten-path experience. I’ll cover a few of them here, but be sure to check back or contact us for an intineary that includes some of my tried and true, personal favorites.

Campo Santa Maria Formosa
Tucked away in the heart of Venice, Campo Santa Maria Formosa is a charming square in the Castello district that’s often overlooked by tourists. Surrounded by beautiful buildings this tranquil spot is a great place to escape the crowds and enjoy the authentic Venetian atmosphere.
Fondamenta delle Zattere
For a peaceful stroll along the Giudecca Canal, head to the Fondamenta delle Zattere. This quiet waterfront promenade offers stunning views of the canal and is lined with cafes, making it a perfect place to relax with a gelato and watch the sunset.
Libreria Acqua Alta
Book (and cat!) lovers will adore Libreria Acqua Alta, a quirky bookstore located near Piazza San Marco. This charming shop is famous for its piles of books stored in bathtubs, gondolas, and even a canoe! It’s a unique spot to browse for a souvenir and experience a different side of Venice. This was one of my favorite stops in this area as I love things that have unique character! I’m probably also very partial to Liberia Aqua Alta as I’ve had a love affair with bookstores since childhood and in recent years, have been completely smitten with the cuddly little furballs otherwise known as cats.
Islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello
Take a day trip to the islands surrounding Venice to experience a quieter, more traditional side of the Venetian Lagoon. Murano is probably the most famous, due to its glass-making (a wonderful souvenir or small gift to bring back for a loved one), then Burano for its gorgeous, brightly colored houses and delicate lace-making (along with some very delicious seafood), and Torcello for its peaceful atmosphere.

3. Tips for Getting Around Venice

Getting around Venice is an adventure in itself. Since the city has no cars, most transportation is done by foot or by boat. Here are some essential tips for navigating Venice:

Walking is Key: Venice is a pedestrian-only city, and most of the streets are narrow and winding. Be prepared to walk a lot (and to climb stairs very often), so very comfortable shoes are a must. You may also consider shoes that are waterproof and that come up a bit higher on the leg if you are there during a rainier time. We usually choose to stay right on the canal for the most charming view and have found that the canal water often will overflow onto walkways later in the day.
Vaporettos and Water Taxis: To get around the city by water, take a vaporetto (water bus). These public boats are the main mode of transportation along the Grand Canal and to other islands. They are very easy to purchase tickets for and are quite a cost-effective option. For a more private (albeit expensive) but very convenient experience, consider taking a water taxi.
Gondola Rides: For a quintessential Venice experience, take a gondola ride through the smaller canals. While gondola rides can be pricey, they offer a memorable and romantic way to see the city.

Get a Venice Card: To save on attractions and transportation, consider purchasing a Venice Unica City Pass, which is an all-in-one pass to use for public transportation, admission to tourist attractions and cultural events in the city, and many other useful services. It’s easy, fast, and saves on cost.

4. When to Visit Venice: Best Time to Travel

The best time to visit Venice depends on your preferences for weather, crowds, and events. Here’s a breakdown of the different seasons:

Spring (April to June): Spring is one of the best times to visit Venice, with pleasant weather and fewer tourists. The city comes alive with festivals and outdoor events, and the gardens and canals are particularly beautiful during this time.
Summer (July to August): Venice can get crowded during the summer months, especially in July and August. If you don’t mind the crowds and higher prices, this is the time when Venice’s lively atmosphere is in full swing. Another consideration is the sweltering heat which may or may not cause you to decide against a summer trip to Venice.
Autumn (September to November): Autumn is another great time to visit, with cooler temperatures and fewer tourists. The Venice Film Festival takes place in September, attracting international stars and filmmakers to the city. Personally, this is my favorite time to peacefully explore Venice and bask in its charm (along with its more comfortable temperatures).
Winter (December to February): Winter in Venice is peaceful and serene. Though it can be chilly, you’ll avoid the crowds which can make for an even more beautiful experience.

5. Local Cuisine: What to Eat in Venice

Venice is known for its unique culinary traditions. Be sure to try the following dishes during your visit:

Risotto al Nero di Seppia: This Venetian dish features squid ink risotto, offering a rich, savory flavor.
Cicchetti: These small tapas-style dishes are perfect for sampling Venetian flavors. Try them at a traditional bacaro(Venetian tavern). For those with gluten sensitives, I was delighted to find at least one osteria in Cannaregio that offered cicchetti on a gluten free base.
Sarde in Saor: Sweet and sour marinated sardines, a classic Venetian appetizer.
Fritto Misto: A delicious mix of fried seafood, perfect for a light lunch by the canal. With the abundance of fresh seafood in Venice, this was a particular favorite that I cannot miss whenever I am in the city.
Aperol Spritz: Really, what would a visit to Venice be without an Aperol Spritz? Consisting of Prosecco, Aperol, and sparkling water, this pretty, orange hued drink is one that you will see on many outdoor tables around Venice. Possibly even a breakfast table if you happen to be walking by ours!

Final Thoughts: Make the Most of Your Visit to Venice

Venice is a city like no other, with its unique canals, historic architecture, and rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re taking a peaceful gondola ride through the canals or exploring the quiet hidden gems of the city, there’s no shortage of things to do and see. By following this guide, you’ll be able to make the most of your time in Venice and experience everything this magical city has to offer.

Would you like to enjoy an extra special time in Venice? Reach out to us for a classic or customized Venice itinerary for an unforgettable vacation in this dreamy city.

So pack your bags, put on your walking shoes, and get ready to wander through and discover the beautiful soul of Venice—the floating city that never fails to captivate everyone who visits…this Hawaii girl included.

Sunshine and aloha!

Hawaii Girl Life🌺☀️