Venice — a city on water

Venice — a unique city built on 118 islands interconnected by more than 400 bridges. It is located in the northeastern part of Italy, in the Venetian Lagoon, and is washed by the waters of the Adriatic Sea. The city emerged in the 5th–6th centuries as a refuge from barbarian invasions and by the 9th century had become a powerful maritime republic controlling trade routes between East and West. Today, Venice is not only an architectural and cultural monument, but also a vibrant city that welcomes millions of tourists every year. For those who want to see all the must-sees, it’s advisable to book a tour in advance, especially during the high season.

Top Attractions in Venice

A journey through Venice most often begins at St. Mark’s Square — the historic center of the city, where its main architectural gems are concentrated. Here, St. Mark’s Basilica towers, built in the Byzantine style. Its façade is adorned with golden mosaics, columns of precious stone, and sculptures brought from Constantinople. Entrance to the basilica is free, but there is a fee to visit the museum, the treasury, and the viewing terrace: starting from €12, depending on the area.

Adjacent to the basilica stands the Doge’s Palace — the former residence of Venice’s rulers. Its Gothic halls, the Bridge of Sighs, and the Council Chambers impress with their lavish decor and historical significance. A standard ticket costs from €30 and includes access to the Bridge of Sighs, which connects the palace to the former prison. The bridge’s name is linked to a legend: prisoners, passing over it, would take one last look at the city and sigh for freedom.

From the square, a path leads to the Grand Canal — Venice’s main waterway, winding through the city in an S-shape. Along its banks, palaces showcase architectural styles ranging from Gothic to Baroque. Among them are Ca’ d’Oro, Palazzo Barbaro, and Palazzo Grassi. The best way to see them is by taking a vaporetto, the water bus. The cost of a ride is about €9, with a unified ticket valid for public transportation.

At one of the canal’s bends is the Rialto Bridge — the oldest bridge in Venice, built in the 16th century. Previously, the city’s main market was located here, and to this day, you can find shops selling souvenirs, jewelry, and local delicacies on the bridge. Visiting the bridge is free, but if you wish to join a tour with historical commentary, the cost starts at €15.

Transportation and Getting Around

Getting around in Venice is an adventure in itself. There are no typical cars, buses, or subways here; all transport is either on water or on foot. The main ways to travel are by gondola, vaporetto, and traghetto. 

Gondolas are not only a romantic symbol of Venice, but also an integral part of its cultural heritage. To become a gondolier, one must undergo special training, pass exams, and obtain a license. Each gondola is handmade and has strictly defined dimensions and shape — traditions are upheld down to the smallest detail.

The vaporetto — a water bus — is the most practical way to reach the far-flung parts of the city and islands such as Murano, Burano, or Lido. It runs on a schedule, uses a unified ticket system, and is ideal for those who want to see Venice from the water without overspending. A single ride costs about €9, while a daily pass is roughly €25.

The traghetto is a ferry that carries passengers across the Grand Canal at points where there are no bridges. It costs just €2, and locals often use it, especially in the morning when they’re off to work.

Walking is also popular: narrow streets, bridges, and hidden courtyards create an atmosphere of mystery. When organizing group trips, it is important to keep in mind the water transport schedules and seasonal restrictions.

The Islands of the Venetian Lagoon

The Venetian Lagoon is not only home to Venice itself but also to numerous islands, each with its own character and history. Traveling among them allows you to view the city from different perspectives and gain a deeper understanding of its culture.

Murano has long been synonymous with the art of glassmaking. Here, workshops operate where artisans create true works of art from glass. Tourists can watch the process, visit the glass museum, and purchase unique items — from miniature figurines to exquisite vases and chandeliers.

Burano is a true feast of colors. Its brightly painted houses, adorned in rich hues, once helped fishermen navigate through the fog. Today, it remains one of the most photogenic corners of the lagoon. In addition, Burano is famous for its lace, handmade following time-honored traditions. Local shops offer products ranging from doilies to elegant collars — all featuring delicate, filigree work.

Torcello is one of the oldest islands in the lagoon. Here, the Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta, with its 11th-century mosaics—considered among the oldest in the region—has been preserved. In contrast to the bustling Venice, Torcello is quiet and almost deserted, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll and reflection.

Lido is a resort island, particularly popular in the summer. Its long beaches, hotels, and cafes attract those who wish to combine cultural sightseeing with a seaside retreat. It is also the venue for the Venice Film Festival, which gathers stars from the world of cinema and turns Lido into a center of social life.

Visiting these islands is often included in group tours in Venice, especially for travelers interested in crafts, architecture, or simply looking to capture beautiful photos. 

Cultural Events and Traditions

The Carnival of Venice is one of the most vibrant events of the year. Held in February and lasting for about two weeks, the streets fill with people in masks and costumes, and parades, theatrical performances, and balls take place. Masks are a symbol of the carnival, reflecting Venetian society’s tradition where anonymity allowed for free expression. This event is a must-see for anyone wishing to immerse themselves in a festive atmosphere.

The Venice Film Festival — the oldest in the world — has been held here since 1932. Taking place on the island of Lido, it gathers directors, actors, and film critics from around the globe. In addition to the official screenings, there are meetings, master classes, and exhibitions. For those passionate about the arts, it is an excellent opportunity to combine leisure with cultural enrichment.

Practical Information for Tourists

The best times to visit Venice are spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October), when the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists. In summer, the city can be overcrowded, especially around St. Mark’s Square. In winter, occasional floods (acqua alta) may occur, but they are brief and predictable.

Accommodations in Venice are varied: from hostels to luxurious hotels. The best hotels in Venice are located in the areas of St. Mark’s, Cannaregio, and Dorsoduro. Dining options range from traditional trattorias to high-end restaurants. Try the seafood risotto, “bussola” cookies, and local wines.

Safety in the city is high, but be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas. To avoid tourist traps, it is best not to buy souvenirs near the major attractions — venture into quieter neighborhoods instead. Also, do not take a gondola ride without agreeing on the price beforehand. When planning your visit, it is useful to consult experts in organizing group trips to Venice to avoid extra expenses and to maximize your experience.