Anyone been to Venice?

[RebeccaMillet]

My son has told me he wants to go in a Gondola. I’ve never been to Venice although think I may fancy it? Is it a great place, expensive, worth it?

Always barter with the gondola people though

@SparklyLogic wow crazy money!

I have been a few times. Went as a teenager with my family and found it hot and crowded. Went as an adult and we arrived in the evening and it was so much better. Everyone leaves, it's cooler and far more pleasant to walk around. Yes I guess some museums and shops won't be open but if you're just there to soak up the city I would recommend going then.

Its absolutely amazing. Eat off the main squares and away from the canals and it's pretty reasonable. We did a lot of walking saw st marks, rialto bridge bridge of sighs etc. we paid to do the bell tower which was amazing view but jam packed like crazy he effiel tower. So not worth it in my opinion. Did a food tour which was fab and saw lots of off track Venice. Didn't pay for a gondola but did a couple water taxis much cheaper

We went in February. The weather was actually ok and it was quite quiet. Loved it, there's nowhere else like it.

I went last year and booked a private walking tour for my friend and me for her birthday present. Went to some out of the way places and our guide was able to give us a list of restaurants he recommended which were “local” and not expensive. Favourites spots visited were the viewing platform at T Fondaco del Tedeschi, the Peggy Guggenheim & Acqua Alta bookshop. Had a gondolier ride and it was totally worth it. For me it was too hot though so I’d love to go back in Winter or Spring.

What a lovely friend you are @Divebar2021

I was in Venice in 1978 on a through trip by van to Greece. We were there in the evening and it was very quiet (!). We had dinner and continued on our way.
Definately need to go back sometime.

It is expensive but utterly magical. My DD was there for a uni term studying the art. Afterwards we all went there with her and she was able to guide us around - not just the art, but the best/cheapest places to eat.

But get yourself a crossbody bag to keep valuables in - pickpocketing is rife! And if you use a cash machine, make sure you hide your fingers when typing the PIN and get the money straight into your bag!

Will it be really busy in May? We’re going on the 4th next year for 2 nights

Have been many with a Venetian friend now sadly gone, he would take us on walking tours of the city, he was very knowledgeable. Yes its busy in some places, but you can easily get off the beaten track. Hoping to go back next year.

It will be busy but pretty much every tourist place is these days. You'll be fine! Edinburgh is definitely worse!

It's a unique and incredibly special place. One the heart of a huge maritime power. Renaissance art. Phenomenal wealth.

We went for carnival in 2020. Covid year which had been planned as a bucket list. We went for the opening which turned out to be a good option as it was closed early. Even just getting that taster was magical.

I've been in February, April and June and had wonderful trips. To be honest lots of European cities smell a bit sewery in hot weather. I've not noticed it too much. The spring months are cooler so maybe plan for then. Deffo get a water taxi from the airport if budget allows. It's an amazing entrance

It does take some planning. There's just so much to see. And the crowds especially if there's cruise ships in port can be shocking. Get to places like St Marks and The Rialto early or later in the evening.

Download or buy a walking guide. It's really easy to wander away from the hordes and find quieter squares and alley ways

People are no more friendly or unfriendly than any big tourist destination. Like anywhere there's tourist trap cafes and restaurants but google can be your friend. Lots of more budget friendly places hidden away if you make an effort. Or have a few tapas like snacks in the bars to keep you going. You'll be surprised that wine is cheap and delicious from the little street bars.