Luring in lovers, artists, poets and traders for centuries, Venice simply inspires as it transports you into another world. Enjoy the delights that this historic and world-famous city offers by taking a tour of the islands, or discover hidden gems with a walking tour on foot.
Holidays to Venice have an unforgettable appeal. With beautiful historic buildings, traditional gondolas to transport you around the waterways and a romantic ambience to warm every heart, this really is a special place. Couples will love being punted down the waterways while being serenaded by the gondolier before alighting to enjoy a romantic meal for two in one of Venice’s traditional restaurants. But it’s not only couples who are drawn by its charm; the city’s historic buildings and splendid architecture are perfect for those looking to experience history and culture. Food lovers will enjoy exploring the streets and seeking out the most beautiful authentic trattoria serving up delicious delicacies.
Base yourself at the Hotel Monaco & Grand Canal for stunning views over the Grand Canal from this lavish 17th Century building and a central location which is perfect for exploring the sights of Venice. For a truly Venetian experience, stay at the 16th Century Hotel Colombina, overlooking a quiet canal side and with views of the Bridge of Sighs.
At Citalia we’re the leading provider of holidays to Italy, so we can help you to enjoy a city break in Venice like no other.
Train links in Italy are fantastic so start your holiday to Venice by train and travel into the city across the Ponte della Liberta causeway, which provides breath taking views of Venice. Find the hidden gems with Citalia and visit the Island of Sant’Andrea. Often forgotten in favour of Murano, Burano and Torcello, this island is home to a ruined 17th Century fort, while the rest of the island is untouched by humans, providing an ideal picnic location with unrivalled views over the lagoon and city. Spend an afternoon wandering the island, exploring the old fort and relaxing on the grass enjoying the views.
Why not get out of the city and visit Chioggia? This nearby fishing town is a quieter, more tranquil version of Venice. With its arched bridges and narrow canals, it is very similar to its larger neighbour, however Chioggia has fewer examples of striking architecture on a grand scale and less art. A day trip to this charming town is perfect for those looking for a calmer pace and a break from city life.
11 day suggested trip
6 day suggested trip
Direct flights to Venice Marco Polo airport (VCE) are available from Birmingham, Bristol, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leeds Bradford, London City, London Gatwick, London Heathrow, London Luton, Manchester, Newcastle and Southend and take approximately 2 hours. Transfers from the airport are by water taxi or water bus and take approximately 40 minutes to reach the centre of Venice.
Direct flights to Venice Treviso airport (TSF) depart from London Stansted, Leeds Bradford, Bristol and East Midlands and take approximately 2 hours.
Venice is a great year-round destination, with each month offering a different reason to visit. Late spring and summer are the best times to go if you're looking for warm weather. But to avoid busy crowds, visit during winter – the weather can get quite cold, but with this comes fewer people and lower hotel prices. Spring and autumn are also popular times to visit Venice, but bear in mind that between October and January acquaalta (high water) is more likely. However, it's still possible to access most of the city during this time using the temporary wooden walkways that are constructed.
At the current time, British citizens do not require a visa to visit Italy.
Tipping
You don’t have to leave a tip in Italy – most Italians don’t tip for restaurant meals, bar drinks, taxi rides or hair and beauty treatments. However if you do leave a tip, you might receive quicker service.