While many tourists visit one of Italy’s most picturesque cities for its famous landmarks, such as Rialto Bridge, Doge’s Palace, Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute and Saint Mark’s Square, the city has much more to offer. Due to its small size, the best way to explore The Floating City is by just strolling along its winding canals, crossing its many bridges, and marveling at the city’s beautiful architecture.
From Vienna you can take a direct train operated by ÖBB and reach Venice in less than eight hours, making it the perfect weekend getaway destination. If you want to save some money on accommodation, I recommend staying on the mainland close to Venezia Mestre. We stayed at Anda Venice Hostel for two nights during our trip. From there, it’s only a short and cheap (1.45€ one-way) train ride to Venezia Santa Lucia, the train station on the island.
Also heading to Venice soon? Below you can find some more recommendation on where to eat, drink, and what to do as well as some impressions of my previous trip to Venice.
Eat here
Osteria Bakan: Authentic Italian cuisine off the beaten track with outdoor seating area
Bakarò: A vintage Osteria serving traditional food, burgers, and drinks
Latteria2465: Small sandwich shop ideal for a quick bite, espresso, and Spritz at an affordable price
Birraria La Corte: Extensive range of pizza and other Italian dishes in a former brewery serving beer on tap
Drink here
Cantina Da Fior: Authentic Venetian wine bar serving good and cheap prosecco on tap
Adagio: Perfect place for having a Spritz or espresso with cicchetti (small bites)
Arcicchetti Bakaro: A popular place for cheap Spritz and cicchetti, also visit Bacareto da Lele right next door
Harry’s Bar Cipriani: Legendary old bar known for its (quite expensive) Bellini cocktails
Things to do
Admire the great view from Ponte dell’Accademia or the top of the staircase at Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo
Wander through Calle Varisco, the narrowest street in Venice
Head to the island of Murano on water bus line 4.2, taking you around the outer side of Venice on the way
Hop on a Traghetto – the cheaper version of a gondola ride – to cross the canal for only 2€
Go on a free walking tour and explore the hidden gems of Venice
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