Venice travel guide
Venice is a city built on more than 100 small islands in a lagoon, with canals instead of streets, gothic palaces and St Mark's Basilica. Getting lost in its quiet alleys is part of the experience.
Best time to visit Venice
April to June and September to October offer good weather, though Venice is busy for much of the year.
Summer is hot and crowded. From late autumn to winter, high tides (acqua alta) can flood low areas such as St Mark's Square; Carnival takes place in February.
Getting to Venice
Marco Polo Airport (VCE) is on the mainland. Water buses and water taxis cross the lagoon to the city, and buses run to Piazzale Roma, where the road ends. Trains arrive at Venezia Santa Lucia station on the Grand Canal.
Recent round-trip fares Aviasales travellers found recently. Tap a route to see that trip and today's price on Aviasales.
Getting around
Vaporetto (water bus)
Public water buses run along the Grand Canal and out to Murano, Burano and the Lido. Multi-day passes make sense if you will ride often.
On foot
There are no cars in the historic centre; walking over the bridges is how you get around, so pack light luggage.
Top things to do in Venice
1. St Mark's Basilica and Doge's Palace
The golden mosaics of the basilica and the palace of the Venetian rulers, with the Bridge of Sighs. Skip-the-line tickets help in high season.
See tours & prices ›2. Gondola ride
A classic way to see the smaller canals. Official gondola fares are set by the city, with a higher rate in the evening.
See tours & prices ›3. Murano and Burano
Islands known for glass-blowing and brightly painted fishermen's houses, reached by vaporetto.
See tours & prices ›4. Rialto and the Grand Canal
The Rialto Bridge and market, best seen from a slow ride on vaporetto line 1.
See tours & prices ›Practical tips
- Venice charges an access fee to day-trippers on certain peak days; check the official city website before you go.
- Sitting at a café on St Mark's Square costs more, often with a music surcharge.
- Stay a night or more to enjoy the city after the day crowds leave.
Venice travel FAQ
How many days do you need in Venice?
Two days covers the main sights and the islands of Murano and Burano. One night lets you see the city at its quietest.
How do you get from Venice airport to the city?
By Alilaguna water bus or private water taxi across the lagoon, or by bus to Piazzale Roma.
Is there a fee to visit Venice?
Day visitors pay an access fee on selected peak days; overnight guests are exempt but must register. Check the official city site.