Step into a world of romance and wonder
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. Romantic holidays in Venice are simply untouchable. 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 on their Venice holidays.
Base yourself at the Hotel Monaco & Grand Canal for stunning views over the Grand Canal from this lavish 17th century building in a central location perfect for exploring the sights of Venice. A favourite with Citalia guests, enjoy a stay at the luxurious Londra Palace Venezia which benefits from a fantastic location within walking distance of Piazza San Marco, an absolute must visit on holidays in Venice.
At Citalia we’re the leading provider of holidays to Italy, so we can help you 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 breathtaking 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.
There is no official date of the foundation of Venice, though it was in the 5th century AD that the lagoon started to fill up with inhabitants from mainland Italy. Venice City started as a refuge for those seeking shelter from the Barbarians after the fall of the Roman Empire. For more than 1,400 years, Venice has seen people living on the waters away from mainland Italy, and it has now become one of the most desirable cities to visit in Europe. Venice might not be the oldest city in Italy, but it is definitely one of the most unique.
Discover the real Venice while staying in one of our carefully selected hotels.
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 weather makes it 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. Venice holidays in winter are beautiful and offer lower hotel prices and fewer crowds. Spring and autumn in Venice are also popular times, 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.
Throughout 2024, the local government will be trialling the Venice Access Fee. Those staying in a hotel are not required to pay this, however, must apply online for an exemption. The Access Fee is set at €5 per day per person and must be paid by each person who accesses the Ancient City. For further information, visit the official site here: https://cda.veneziaunica.it/en/access-fee.
Whilst tipping isn’t embedded into Italian culture it is always appreciated as an acknowledgement of good service. Nowadays people generally round up a bill in a bar or cafe and leave 5-10% extra on a restaurant bill. Taxi bills are usually also rounded up.
On guided tours/excursions it is customary to leave a token of appreciation for the driver and guide.
On small group escorted tours, it is customary to leave a token of appreciation to the driver and guide at the end of the tour.
The official language in Italy is Italian. English is widely spoken, too, so getting by is easy.
Train travel is a fantastic and easy way to see Italy. Arriving in Venice by train is memorable - travelling across the Ponte della Liberta causeway with fabulous views from your window makes the perfect start to your Venice city break.
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