Curator’s statement
Venice is one of the most picturesque cities. It's filled with unique architecture, interesting history, beautiful art and delicious food. It's the perfect city to visit with your family, because kids will be just as fascinated as adults. Whether floating under the bridges of the canals in a gondola or walking the bridges by foot, there is so much to see and do in this small city. It is a perfect destination for children of all ages. Watching my three daughters embrace the culture was truly a wonderful experience.
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Day 1: St. Mark's and Gondolas
Take a stroll around the city that is made up of nearly 120 small islands, which are all connected by about 435 bridges. Make your way to the famous Piazza San Marco, Venice’s most important and spectacular square. Explore the beauty of St. Mark’s Basilica. Then across the way, you will find the Campanile, which is the bell tower of St. Mark's Basilica and the tallest building in Venice. Take an elevator ride to the top for the most fantastic views of the city.
Continue through the square to the Doge’s Palace, one of the main landmarks in the city of Venice. Enjoy the grandiose, gothic architecture, while visiting the Great Council chamber and the prison cells that exist inside the palace. It’s truly remarkable.
Next, enjoy a nice lunch at Trattoria Al Gazzettino. It has an extensive menu featuring fish, meat and of course, pasta. They even offer gluten-free options. The staff was friendly and attentive. Following lunch, take a relaxing boat tour of the city in a gondola. If you don’t have it booked in advance, you may need to locate one at the various gondola stations around the city. Be prepared to learn some interesting facts about Venice from your gondolier. Keep your eyes open for the Rialto Bridge, the oldest of the bridges that span the Grand Canal.
Take some time to explore the shops in Venice. The city is most known for their Murano glass and Venetian masks, which make great souvenirs. End your day with a delicious dinner at Osteria del Lovo. Indulge in their tasty fish and seafood dishes.
Day 2: Cicchetti and Shopping
Start your second day with a three-hour private walking tour of Venice. You will learn about the importance of the different Piazzas and the history behind them. You will make your way to Marco Polo’s residence and learn about his exploration. With your tour guide, take a taxi boat on the Grand Canal to Murano. Schedule a tour of the glass factory and watch how they blow glass into incredible pieces of art.
Head back to the mainland by taxi and enjoy some cicchetti for lunch, at Bar Cicchetteria. Try lots of different small bites, they will not disappoint. Indulge in some delicious gelato from Suso for dessert. Spend some time exploring Libreria Acqua Alta, known to be the most beautiful bookstore in the world. Stop by T Fondaco dei Tedeschi to experience this high-end and elegant department store. If possible, try to make it to the rooftop for beautiful views of the city, but tickets are needed and can be difficult to obtain. End your day with a delicious meal at Ristorante Al Covo. The menu is selective, but the food is fresh and absolutely delicious.
Travel Advisor
Debbie Forchheimer
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Venice. For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Teresa Fox’s guide, A Perfect Day in Venice.