Venice Guide: A Little Off-The-Beaten Path
Curated By
Robyn Hadden
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Venice
Couples Travel
Arts & Culture
Food & Wine
Italy
Sightseeing
Relaxation
Hidden Gems
Curator’s statement
When I went to Venice I had low expectations, because all I had heard about the “City of Canals” was that it was overcrowded, too touristy, and the food was not great. I’m here to tell you differently, and while everyone has their own experience, our one night in Venice was our favorite stop in Italy. We did do a few things a little differently with our time there, so I’ve created a guide that takes you a little off the beaten path, guaranteeing you discover Venice's hidden gems but also includes the must do’s and places to see because sometimes the touristy spots are there for a reason and need to be seen and experienced.
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Things to do in Venice
If you’ve asked anyone who’s been to Venice what to do while you’re there, chances are they said to “get lost” and there’s a reason, everyone says that, wandering down charming little streets, checking out the shops and stopping for an aperitivo along the way is one of the best ways to see Venice. It’s also so small you can truly only be “lost” for so long.
Rialto Farmers Market
I highly recommend waking up early one morning and checking out this farmers market. If you’re there early enough, you can avoid the crowds and take your time exploring. Do note that this is closed on Sundays; otherwise, it's open from 7:30-3:00.
Burano
Take a ride on a vaporetto to the colorful island of Burano known for it’s colorful houses and lace making.
Explore the Cannaregio District
This area is where you will find the authentic Venetian experience, you can tour the Jewish Museum, one of the oldest in the world. Stop by a traditional Bacari, a Venetian wine bar where you can enjoy an aperitivo and cicchetti and just enjoy the local scene.
Places to eat & drink in Venice
Osteria Al Squero - this little gem was right outside our hotel and ended up being our favorite place we ate in Venice. Known for their cicchetti, like an Italian tapa, there’s a huge variety to choose from and priced so well you can try as many as your stomach can handle. We loved getting a plate of cicchetti, a spritz or prosecco, and sitting by the outside wall where you can watch gondolas being repaired.
Lineadombra - Located in the Dorsoduro area, you can sit and enjoy the views while dining on the water. This fine dining restaurant is popular for their seafood but don’t miss out on the local dishes as well.
Al Grill - One of the top rated restaurants in Venice known for their steak and reasonable prices. I recommend making a reservation for this one as it books up quickly!
Osteria ai Promessi Sposi - A local gem, known for its traditional dishes, seafood and homemade pasta. Also recommend reservations for this one!
Ristorante Florida - Now before anyone comes at me for recommending this place, hear me out. Is it a major touristy spot, yes, but is it sometimes worth it to sit right next to the famous Rialto Bridge and drink a glass of prosecco in a city you’ve dreamt of going to, also, yes. While I can’t say the pizza was life changing, it was absolutely delightful taking in the scenes and soaking in just being in Venice.
Need to Know
For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Cindy La’s guide, Exploring Italy: Positano, Florence, Venice.
Travel Advisor
Robyn Hadden
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Venice.