Venice ⏤ the city on water ⏤ is a city so unlike any other in the world. It’s a place where travelling by car is simply non-existent. A place where history is still incredibly rich.

In no particular order, here are 12 things you must do in Venice:

Go on a Gondola Ride

You can’t go all the way to Venice and not take a ride on a Gondola!

The striped shirts, red hats and beautiful boats make you feel very immersed in the Venetian culture. Considering there aren’t any roads in this beautiful city, it’s amazing to see how locals would ⏤ and still do ⏤ manoeuvre around their home.

Climb the Campanile

Saint Marc’s square is possibly one of the most touristy locations in the entirety of Venice. Although that may not be appealing to everyone, if there’s one thing you must do in the area, it is definitely to climb to the top of the San Marco Campanile.

The bell tower is one of the most recognizable symbols of the city, which will give you beautiful views of the area when at the top.

Go to Lido di Venezia

Lido di Venezia is a somewhat unknown gem of Venice. Lido is a 7-mile sandbank just south of Venice, which is home to around 20,000 residents.

The sandbank acts as a bit of a barrier between the city and the Adriatic Sea, whilst also being the perfect contrast to the often busy city life. Boats depart every 20 minutes from various locations around the city, making it very easy to get to if you’re on a time schedule.

Cross the Rialto Bridge

The most well-known, photogenic and beautiful bridge in the city. It’s also the oldest bridge whose construction began back in 1588. You really can’t miss this one!

For more info, don’t forget to check out this list from Deexterous, of more amazing landmarks and places you mustn’t miss in Venice!

Visit the Coloured Houses of Burano

Unfortunately, I was unable to visit Burano on my visit to Venice, and I am very gutted about it.

This small 21-hectare island is within the Venice lagoon, and much like Venice itself, it’s constructed by 4 tiny islands connected by numerous bridges. The brightly coloured buildings make Burano one of the cheeriest islands in Europe.

Explore the Streets at Night

The city of Venezia turns into a different place at night; the glow of the lights shine on the canal waters, buskers fill the streets in the bid to serenade, and even when the sun goes down the canals are still very much alive.

It’s a beautiful experience, to say the least.

Visit the many Historic Stores

Although there are a lot of gimmicky stores that are entirely aimed at tourists, there are also numerous that seem as though they have stood the test of time.

One that stands out the most, is Libreria Acqua Alta, a bookstore that you’ll find incredibly beautiful regardless of your interest in literature. There are so many others around the city that you may stumble across unintentionally, and those are the ones you’ll definitely have to explore.

Experience Carnevale

This carnival runs annually in the 2 weeks that lead up to Lent (the end of February). Carnevale di Venezia is a beautiful festival that fills the canals with charming costumes, Venetian masks and an all-around ecstatic atmosphere. Masquerade balls, candle-lit parades, concerts, and street performances are available during the carnival, with some being available free to the public.

Buy a Venetian Souvenir

Speaking of Venetian masks, they make a pretty great souvenir to take home too! If they somehow don’t tickle your fancy, why not get your hands on Murano glass or a Gondolier hat?

There are many shops that will provide you with a trinket that will remind you of this incredible city on water! Try to support a local, small store where possible.

Indulge in Gelato

Nothing beats Italian gelato. No really, nothing does. They make the best ice cream you’ll ever have in your life. There’s really nothing more I can say except, if there’s one thing you must do in Venice… It’s to eat all the gelato.

Eat as much Pizza and Pasta as you possibly can

I had some of the best Italian food when I was in Venice ⏤ although, every meal I had in Italy was incredible I must admit! There are so many locally styled restaurants around the city that make you feel as though you’re a real Italian, and of course, the food is bloody delish too.

You’re in Italy for goodness sake, enjoy all the carbs!

Get lost

It’s really not hard to get lost in Venice, and exploring the hidden corners is all part of the fun!

Enjoy XX

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