Who wouldn’t want to visit Venice? I had to chance to visit this beautiful city during my cruise and on other travel occasions. Venice is unlike any other cities. No matter how many times you’ve seen it on movies or on TV, the real thing is like a dream. Shimmering sunlight and silvery mist soften every perspective there; you understand how the city became renowned in the Renaissance for its artists’.
Coming ashore
If you are coming to Venice by cruise, read on or skip to the second part.
Venice is a huge port handling vast numbers of cruise ships and commercial traffic. The cruise terminal is located at the southern west of the city, and has two main decks one for big ships called Marittima and the other San Basilio for smaller ships.
Marittima has duty-free shops and information desks but no refreshment facilities. So make sure you keep a bottle of water and some snacks to keep you going until you get to the city centre. There are a few options on how to get to the city: From there, there is a shuttle bus to Piazzale Roma or you can take the Bus 6. You can also take the boat. At San Basilio, there are fewer passenger facilities but the quay has a vaporetto stop, from which services 61 61 and 82 take you into the heart of Venice.
Taxi charge around 2.33 euros then 0.78 euros per km. Taxis can’t take you to the heart of the city, it will leave you at the edge so it seems a needless expense to us. Vaporetto are much more useful once you reach the centre because they will take straight to St-Mark Square.
Exploring Venice
- There’s no better way to discover Venice for the first time by taking a trip down the Grand Canal. It is, without doubt, one of the world’s great avenues. The most romantic way to see the canal is from a gondola. The next big thing at a fraction of the cost is to the take in the view from vaporetto Line 1.
- Basilica di San Marco is an opulent synthesis of Byzantine and Romanesque styles. Climb the steep stairway to the Galleria and the Museo di San Marco for the best overview of the basilica’s interior. It is magical! From there, you can step outdoors for a stunning panorama of Piazza San Marco and out over the lagoon to San Giorgio. It is a must if you like mosaic.
Be aware that the Basilica guards turn away anyone with bare shoulders or knees, no shorts, short skirts and tank tops are allowed.
Where to eat?
Vini da Gigio is owned by brother and sister Paolo and Laura. They run this refined trattoria as if they’re invited you to dinner in their home. It was like being in your own home but with the most stunning view! Get the server’s recommendation of the day. There are a variety of meat dishes to satisfy all kind of tummies, a fine wine list and space for groups. Every time I’ve been, it has been busy as it’s a popular spot so expect a lively and bustling atmosphere. If you want to insure to get a table, make sure to do a reservation.