Unique Ways to Explore Venice and Make the Most of Your Visit
Choosing a travel destination is no easy task, and with so many fabulous locations around the world, it can be very difficult to narrow it down to just one. If you’ve managed to select your destination, and it happens to be Venice, Italy, then you’re in for a real treat in history, beauty, culture, and sights. Venice has been a popular destination among travelers of all ages for quite some time now, and just one visit to the city will make it apparent why.
Rather than following a typical itinerary when you arrive in Venice, we’ve put together a variety of unique ways that you can explore the city and make the very most of your visit. There is an abundance of cool tours in Venice available, it’s just a matter of finding the one(s) that appeal to you the most.
Exploring Venice by Boat
Unlike some major cities, which are really best explored by foot, Venice provides a unique opportunity for travelers to explore by boat. There are a variety of different styled boats to choose from, but gondolas tend to be the most authentic option. By exploring Venice by boat, travelers will be able to see sights that may not be possible by foot, and there’s a good chance you’ll also be able to cover more ground. It’s a relaxing, civilized, and extremely interesting way to explore the sights and sounds of the city.
Exploring by boat gives tourists a chance to step back and appreciate the sights in a larger sense. It’s also the perfect way to capture those memorable photos.
Motor boats are another popular method of touring, but obviously, this tour will have more of a fast-paced feel to it.
For the ultimate boating experience, you may want to look into a private boat tour such as what is available through The Roman Guy Italy Tours & Vacations. Its Hidden Canals: Private Venice Boat Tour takes tourists to little known spots of the city that are truly breathtaking. You will have your own private boat and private guide.
Learn What It’s Like to Pilot a Gondola
Now that you’ve travelled around Venice by boat, why not step into the shoes of the Gondolier. Did you know that you can take Venetian rowing lessons right in town, so that you can learn what it’s like to pilot one of these gondolas? These lessons are meant specifically for tourists such as yourself, and also provide sightseeing opportunities along the way.
A Private Walking Tour
Private walking tours are perfect for those tourists who want to be able to ask questions, learn about the history, and not have to worry about planning an itinerary. There are a variety of tour operators that offer this type of tour, just be warned they tend to fill up fast and can be rather pricey. The main advantage of these tours is that they tend to be customizable.
Sign Up for a Food Tour
Italy, in general, is known for its world-class cuisine, and Venice is no exception. The city is home to all kinds of unique dishes, not to mention its wine and spirits. If you want to be sure you experience the finest Venice has to offer in terms of dining, then a food tour is the way to go. Most of these tours run anywhere from a half-day to a full-day and provide tastings/sampling along the way, as well as a look into the Italian culture and its people.
Give Yourself a Challenge and Look for the Hidden Bridges
Venice is home to more than 400 bridges made from wood, iron, and stone. They are both stunning and unique, each with its own special features. If you’re looking for a unique way to explore the city, why not give yourself a challenge. There are just two bridges in the city that don’t have guardrails, why not try to find them during your stay? As an added dose of fun, once you do find them you’ll want to walk across them. It’s certainly more of a challenge when there is no railing!
Spoiler alert, if you’re wondering which two bridges to look for they are the Rio de San Felice and the Devil’s Bridge.
Get the Perfect Photo Op by Climbing San Giorgio Maggiore
If you’re looking for the absolute best place to capture Venice and get that perfect photo, then there is no better spot than the top of San Giorgio Maggiore. From here, you can look out across the serene water at the campanile. Just be prepared to take a lot of photos!
The Fun Doesn’t End at Sundown
Another thing to keep in mind is that just because the sun sets on the city, it doesn’t mean the fun and adventure has to come to an end. You’ll find that exploring Venice by night provides you with a whole other take on the city and its people. Different spots come alive at night, and with the lights reflecting off the water, it really makes for a beautiful scene.
Explore the many cafes, enjoy live music, a variety of wine bars, fine dining, and much more. So, keep those comfy shoes on so that you can continue to enjoy the city into the late hours of the night.
Venture Outside the Tourist Attractions
While the tourist attractions are stunning and not to be missed, there is also something to be said for getting away from these spots and experiencing the “real” Venice. The Venetian Ghetto is a must-see for anyone with an interest in history. This area is the oldest part of Venice and is found in Cannaregio. It’s here you’ll be able to chat with locals and get a true sense for how they live.
Make It a Trip to Remember
By exploring Venice in one of these unique ways, you’re sure to make it a trip to remember. These types of options can uncover gems, sights, and experiences you didn’t even know existed in the city.