Venice City Guide: A Gondola Ride, Spritz, and Stories of Chaos

Venice. The city of canals, gondolas, and more history than you can shake a stick at. Sure, it’s pretty—I mean, really pretty—but it’s also a city with a personality. Between getting lost in the maze of alleys, and taking the classic gondola ride (which, let’s just say, you might get the grumpy gondolier), Venice has a way of surprising you. It’s the kind of place where a simple walk down the street can lead to a story for years.

Here’s your guide to navigating Venice like a pro, with all the highlights and hidden gems you shouldn’t miss.

Things to Do: Venice’s Highlights (That You Definitely Won’t Want to Miss)

Take the Gondola Ride (And Get a Grumpy Gondolier—Trust Us, It’s Part of the Fun)

So, everyone has to do a gondola ride, right? Well, imagine this: four of us, embarking on a serenely romantic ride along the Grand Canal... and then there’s the gondolier. The guy looked like he’d been sentenced to life on the water, with zero patience for conversation. What he lacked in charm, though, he made up for with gondola talent. As a group of four, we ended up with a perfect story about how the quiet gondola ride was somehow the most fun part of Venice. Sometimes, a surly gondolier just adds to the charm. Embrace the experience, because it’s one you won’t forget. We prebooked our ride to save money through Get Your Guide. This meant we didn't have to haggle for the price like many of our fellow tourists which might have been part of the reason for the lack of enthusiasm of our gondolier.

Venetian gondoliers: part sailor, part storyteller… unless you get the strong, silent type like we did

St. Mark’s Basilica (Get There Early or Prepare for a Long Line)

Yes, the crowds can be insane, but St. Mark’s Basilica is a must-see. The glittering mosaics, the intricate architecture—it’s the epitome of Venice's grandeur. Just be prepared to wait your turn if you don’t arrive early (or, better yet, grab a skip-the-line ticket). Trust us, it’s worth it, though. And if you’re lucky enough to get in during the quieter times, it’s like stepping into a whole other world.

Venice from above: A maze of canals, history, and tourists desperately trying to find their hotel.

Doge’s Palace (Where History Gets a Little Dramatic)

Doge’s Palace is another one of Venice’s star attractions, where you can soak in centuries of Venetian history, complete with tales of intrigue, power, and scandal. The palace itself is stunning, but it’s also home to some seriously jaw-dropping art. Our pro tip? Don’t rush through—it’s best to take your time and really take in the intricate details. We arranged our ticket through Get your Guide and meant we didn't have to waste time queuing for tickets.

Take a Vaporetto Down the Grand Canal (It’s Like a Water Taxi with a View)

One of the coolest ways to see Venice is from the water. Instead of splurging on a private gondola ride, jump on a Vaporetto (water bus) for a cheap but stunning ride down the Grand Canal. You’ll pass beautiful palaces, churches, and bridges, and all you need is a good spot by the window (and maybe a bottle of Prosecco for that authentic Venetian experience). We even got the added bonus of a quick shower of canal water when the Vaporetto took a sharp corner. Not sure what was in that water, but on a 30+ Celsius degree day, it was surprisingly refreshing!

Stroll the Lanes and Find the Bridges (It’s All About the Views)

Venice is a city made for strolling. Get lost in the winding streets, peer into quirky little shops, and cross bridges like the famous Rialto Bridge and the picturesque Bridge of Sighs. Each corner seems to unveil a new treasure—whether it’s a hidden square, a charming café, or a quirky shop selling Venetian masks. The views from these bridges are simply stunning, especially at sunrise or sunset. It's like stepping into a painting at every turn.

Peering Into Shops (For the Most Colorful Glass Creations)

As you wander, you’ll encounter Venice's famous glass creations at every turn. From delicate chandeliers to colorful ornaments, the glass shops here are so vibrant and unique. It’s impossible not to be drawn to the sparkling displays of Murano glass—whether you’re buying or just window-shopping, it’s a must-see part of the Venice experience.

What to Eat and Drink: Venice’s Most Delicious (and Sometimes Strange) Dishes

1. Risotto al Nero di Seppia (For When You Want to Look Brave)

If you’re the type who orders the weirdest thing on the menu to impress your friends, this is the dish for you. Risotto al nero di seppia is a seafood risotto made with cuttlefish ink, giving it a striking black color. It’s delicious, but it also makes for a great Instagram shot. “Look at me, eating black food in Venice,” you can say dramatically while taking a picture.

2. Sarde in Saor (Sweet and Sour, But Make It Fishy)

This Venetian dish is all about contrasts—sweet, sour, and oh-so-fishy. Sarde in saor combines marinated sardines, onions, and raisins, and while it might sound odd, it's definitely a taste of Venice. If you don’t like it, just act like a food critic and say it’s “an acquired taste.”

3. Lobster Pasta (A Delicious Surprise, But Maybe Not for the Unprepared)

Lobster pasta is a local delicacy that you’ll find in many Venetian restaurants, and it’s absolutely delicious—if you’re prepared for it. One of us, however, had a little surprise when ordering it. The dish was priced based on the weight of the lobster, which wasn’t immediately obvious, leading to an entire meal spent looking more panicked about the bill than actually enjoying the food. Lesson learned: always check the pricing details! If you're unsure about what’s included, just ask beforehand so you don’t end up with an unexpected shock (and a waiter side-eyeing your reaction). It all worked out in the end, but a little clarity upfront would have saved some stress—and possibly a few grey hairs.

4. Fritto Misto (Deep Fried Everything)

Everything tastes better deep-fried, and Venice’s fritto misto is no exception. It’s a delicious mix of deep-fried seafood, including shrimp, squid, and the tiniest fish you’ve ever seen. Perfect for snacking while walking along the canals or just pretending you're in an Italian food commercial.

5. Spritz (Essential for Summer Strolls by the Canal)

When you’re wandering the enchanting streets of Venice in the summer heat, you’ll find that sitting at a table by the canal with a refreshing spritz in hand is absolutely essential. The classic Aperol Spritz is the go-to choice, with its bright orange hue and light, zesty taste. But if you're feeling adventurous, try a Limoncello Spritz or the Hugo Spritz made with elderflower liqueur. All three options are perfect for sipping while you people-watch and soak up the Venetian atmosphere. Just be sure to keep an eye on your surroundings—there’s something about Venice that makes everything taste better.

Venice sightseeing tip: Always hydrate. Preferably with an Aperol Spritz.

Restaurant Recommendation: Trattoria alla Madonna

For a traditional Venetian dining experience, head to Trattoria alla Madonna. Situated near the Rialto Market, it serves up fantastic seafood and local specialties in a cozy, rustic setting. The risotto is a must-try, but anything on the menu will make you feel like you're truly dining like a local.

Where to Stay: Venice’s Best Places to Rest Your Head

We didn’t stay in Venice itself but opted to visit as day-trippers, which worked surprisingly well. If you’re short on time, you can easily catch an early train in, explore all the highlights, and then hop on a late train to your next destination. Just be aware that Venice now charges a day-tripper tax, so factor that into your plans. Arriving at Venezia Santa Lucia, the main train station, puts you right at the gateway to the city, with vaporetto waiting outside to whisk you down the Grand Canal straight into the heart of Venice. It’s a brilliant way to make a grand entrance.

That said, if you do want to stay overnight (and experience Venice after the crowds have thinned), some of the best areas include:

• San Marco – Right in the middle of the action, near St. Mark’s Basilica and the Rialto Bridge. Perfect for first-timers but expect higher prices.

• Dorsoduro – A little quieter, with a more local feel and great canalside bars. Ideal for those who want charm without the tourist crush.

• Cannaregio – A mix of lively and peaceful streets, plus some of the best hidden-gem restaurants. Also a great spot if you’re arriving late, as it’s close to the train station.

• Giudecca – Across the canal from the main sights, this area offers stunning views and a more relaxed, residential vibe.

Venice is a city that’s full of surprises—from grumpy gondoliers to unexpected culinary delights. It’s all about taking the time to appreciate the beauty and the chaos, and the stories you’ll leave with will stay with you long after you’ve said arrivederci to the canals.

Happy travels!