Venice, Italy
Also known as La Serenissima for its ‘serene’ atmosphere, Venice is unique in its style and architecture. It will enchant you by simply walking around the canals and crossing the city’s bridges. Here’s my top recommendations to get the most out of the city and its surroundings.
BEST BAR
Treat yourself and mingle with the locals at Harry’s bar for an all time classic – Italian Bellini drink. A historical bar which was a favourite of E. Hemingway.
BEST RESTAURANTS
Cantina Do Spade – best pick for typical Venetian dishes in a friendly atmosphere in the centre of the city. The reason why I particularly recommend this place is because it is more than just a ‘restaurant’. Italians use the word osteria: a place often visited by locals going far from just eating simple food and sipping house-wines. It is a recreational place in which to socialise, play cards and spend a pleasant evening. Try the “frittura mista” and the zucchini filled with cod (aka baccalà mantecato).
VENETIAN TAVERN
What I love about Italy (beside the good weather and people) is their high standards for food. There is no better place to dine than an Italian Tavern. Try the meat branzino-agnolotti cooked with dry Martini or the Tagliatelle with prawns, zucchini and prosecco at Taverna al Remer (steps away from Rialto bridge). Full Italian menu: here.
TRY BIGOLI
An excellent dish of quality – bigoli is a traditional pasta from the Northern region of Veneto (IT). A thicker spaghetti slightly lighter and denser than most pasta. Due to its rough texture it is simply perfect for any sauce to cling onto. Something you don’t find (or try) often: worth a go!
TRY CICCHETTI
Cantine del Vino gia’ Schiavi – enjoy a glass of wine with ‘cicchetti’: the Venetian version of Spanish tapas. Go for an assorted selection of those with meat, fish, fried fish and vegetables (good and cheap alternative as dinner option). The place itself and its location are inviting enough already but the food, wine and atmosphere will do the rest to leave you with a proper Venetian experience.
RELAX
Campo Erberia – once you have passed the iconic Rialto bridge, enjoy a spectacular view of the Grand Canal from this local spot. From this same place you can experience the acqua alta phenomenon: as the water level rises towards the late afternoon you can witness the campo(field) below slowly disappearing, creating a beautiful scenario. It almost seems like the surrounding buildings sink. (Watch your feet: you might get wet!).

YOUR SUNSET SPOT
Zattere – stretching alongside the Giudecca canal you can enjoy a pleasant walk around Zattere area. On a clear day you can witness a spectacular sunset whilst enjoying an italian special: aperol spritz or a tasty Italian gelato (because, why not?!?). I recommend the historic ice-cream producer Gelati Nico. Try the ‘Gianduiotto‘ flavour: delicious!
DAY TRIP – (Murano)
Escape the crowded island of Venice to explore and discover the less touristy island of Murano – basically a little version of Venice but less busy (cheaper!), colourful and equally beautiful. Murano is known for its finest glass production so I would strongly recommend visiting a few manufacturers in town as well as walking through and witnessing a few handicraft artisans in action. Avoid the expensive water taxi (or gondolas) and find out time tables and departure points here.
Where to stay
Whilst Venice has so much to offer your trip would not be complete without experiencing the true Italian Dolce Vita in the surrounding Northern Italian countryside. 50-mins drive from Venice, treat yourself to a stay in bespoke built Villa with pool and idyllic scenic views.
Above all, the host is an extremely welcoming lady with detailed knowledge of the best local places which will allow you to get so much more out of your stay.
More detail and booking here.
Closest Airport
Venice Marco Polo – 30 mins away to Venice city centre. Alternatively try the Venice-Treviso Airport – 45 mins away to Venice. Check out flights to Venice with Ryanair.
How to get around (Airport service)
Professional and reliable taxi service: Stefano: +39 3286613285 (Whatsapp)