Hotels in Metropolitan City of Venice

Welcome to one of the most romantic travel destinations in Europe - Venice. Indeed, who would not fall in love with its unique environment, historic landmarks, artistic wonders, vibrant culture, and scrumptious food offerings? This Italian city is composed of 118 small islands featuring hundreds of canals and bridges that connect every area.

Whether you’re visiting the city for a quick break or are planning to spend a week-long or more trip, your experience of Venice will leave you with a lot of special memories. From riding the gondolas around its winding canals to visiting St. Mark’s Square or the Doge’s Palace, there are many things to do in the city.

How to Get There

The Marco Polo Airport of Venice is the main airport serving the city and one of the busiest in Italy. Most of the travellers will arrive here as more than 40 international airlines operate here such as Emirates, British Airways, and Lufthansa.

From Marco Polo Airport to Venice, the best option is to ride the bus serviced by ATVO or the water taxi services from Azienda del Consorzio Trasporti Veneziano (or better known as ACTV). Aptly named “The Floating City,” driving is not an ideal way to go to Venice.

Meanwhile, located around one hour away from Venice is Treviso Airport. This alternative airport is serviced by low-cost airlines including Wizz Air and Ryanair. Most of the travelers arriving here are from Barcelona, Amsterdam, and Dublin. To get to Venice, travellers will need to book an airport transfer from ATVO, the most popular public transport company in the city.

Getting Around

With sobriquets like “The Floating City,” “City of Water,” and “City of Canals,” expect that the main mode of transportation in Venice is by boat. Instead of cars, the Venetians the vaporetti or the public waterbus. It is operated by ACTV, Venice’s public transport system.

If you want a more comfortable and stylish way to explore the city, you can opt for a water taxi. However, this mode of transportation is costlier at around 90 to 120 euros. And if you want a quick, one-of-a-kind tour of Venice, then riding a gondola is a must.

Things to Do

Featuring a rich history and culture, one will never run out of things to do and see in Venice. Given that the city is small, travellers will be able to experience a lot even if they are only here for a short time. The best activities in Venice should include riding a gondola, exploring its colorful towns, checking out the splendid architecture, and getting lost in its beauty.

One of Venice’s famous attractions is Saint Mark's Square. Considered the only “piazza” in Venice, this public square is teeming with attractions that make the city famous. There are also many chic cafes, restaurants, and shops in this venue. Located here is the Saint Mark's Basilica, a spectacular 11th-century church that showcases an Italo-Byzantine architecture. The Campanile di San Marco (bell tower) is one of its most iconic landmarks.

Check out Doges’ Palace next since it is also located in St. Mark’s Square. Previously the residence of the Doge (or Duke) of Venice, this impressive structure is now a museum. This is where the famous Bridge of Sighs is located.

Of course, if it’s your first time to visit Venice then you should ride a gondola at least once for a unique experience. This traditional Venitian rowing boat has long been a symbol of the city. Rowed by gondoliers, it would set you back around 80 euros for a 25-30 minute private tour.

Make sure to pass by the Canal Grande as this is the main thoroughfare of the city. A visit to the Rialto Bridge or Ponte di Rialto is a must if you want to have picture-perfect views of Venice. More than 400 years old, it is the primary bridge crossing the Grand Canal.

What to Eat

While pizza and pasta are the most common food associated in Italy, in Venice, it’s seafood and rice that reigns supreme. Many of authentic local dishes are fish-based. Although some restaurants do offer meat, expect it to be more expensive.

Some of the Venetian specialties you must try include risotto al nero di seppia, a starter featuring rice blackened by squid ink and cuttlefish; moleche, small green crabs; and sarde in saor, an antipasto consisting of sardines, balsamic vinegar, and onion.

End it with a sweet note by eating some Venetian biscuits such as buranelli or baicoli. These are best paired with a cup of espresso.

Where to Stay

Staying in one of Venice’s top districts is a great choice for travellers to have convenient access to the city’s popular attractions. Some of the best hotels in Venice are found in the famous San Marco neighbourhood.



As the heart of the city, this is where many of Venice’s important tourist spots such as St. Mark’s Square, Grand Canal, and Rialto Bridge are located. Other options include the districts of Castello and San Polo as these are also near the major landmarks.

You can also choose to book a Venice hotel in Cannaregio if you don’t like the crowd. Most of the hotels in the area have a historic setting and will be best enjoyed by history lovers. However, the hotel rates are a bit pricey, especially those found near the Grand Canal.

Other neighbourhoods with their charm and history worth discovering include Dorsoduro, Santa Croce, and Giudecca to name a few.

Travel Tips

• The best time to visit would be in spring and fall to avoid the crowds.

• Join the Venice's Carnevale, one of the most colourful and outlandish festivals celebrated in the city. Attendees wear masks and costumes during the 10-day street party.