DinaLast Updated on December 28, 2024
It’s time to talk about the incredible Venice, a jewel of a city you must see at least once in your lifetime! The attractions in Venice are unique, and it’s worth visiting even on your own – just like I did during my solo travel in Venice.
I know what you’re thinking – “Venice in just one day?” But trust me, it’s possible to fall in love with this enchanting city, even on a quick solo trip!
Venice at a Glance
Before we dive into the details, let’s clear up a few things about Venice:
- It’s a labyrinth of narrow streets and canals, so getting lost is part of the charm (more on this later!).
- Contrary to popular belief, there was no unpleasant smell during my visit.
- Yes, it’s expensive, but nothing compared to Zurich (your wallet will breathe a sigh of relief!).
- It’s utterly enchanting, especially at sunset when the crowds thin out. My tip? Book a hotel in Venice, not in Mestre (you’ll find out why below).
Must-See Attractions in Venice for solo travellers
#1. St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco)
First and most famous on the list for anyone looking to plan a solo travel in Venice is the iconic St. Mark’s Square! Stepping into this enchanting square, you’ll feel like you’ve entered a living, breathing postcard. This stunning piazza has been the city’s central gathering place since the 9th century—a spot steeped in rich history!
The highlight of the square is, of course, the magnificent St. Mark’s Basilica. With its Byzantine domes and glittering mosaics, it’s a feast for the eyes. But here’s a fun fact—those famous bronze horses on the façade of St. Mark’s Basilica? They were stolen from Constantinople in 1204!
Napoleon Bonaparte once called St. Mark’s Square the “drawing room of Europe,” and trust me, he wasn’t wrong. It’s the perfect place to see and be seen, just as Venetians have done for centuries.
Things to know before visiting the basilica:
- Dress code: The basics apply. Just like in the Vatican, shoulders and knees must be covered, or you won’t be allowed entry.
- Best times to visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid large crowds.
- Lighting hours: The interior is fully lit from 11:30 AM to 12:45 PM on weekdays, offering the best view of the mosaics.
- Tickets: Book a skip-the-line ticket to avoid long queues.
- Bag storage: Large bags are not allowed inside—you can use the storage service located to the left of the northern façade.
- Don’t miss the chance to climb the Campanile (Bell Tower), which I regret not doing. The view from above is said to be stunning. Plus, there’s an elevator!
My Pretty Travels Tip: Keep in mind there’s a combo ticket: the "St. Mark's Basilica & Doge's Palace" ticket for €58, which includes priority access, so you can skip the lines. You can purchase it in advance from here. Cheap? No, but you’re in Venice! If you want to see the sights and are short on time like I was, it’s best to plan ahead.
Finally, if you’re in the mood for some luxury, enjoy a coffee at St. Mark’s Square at the historic Caffè Florian, which has been serving coffee since 1720! Yes, it’s pricey, but I sat down and had a coffee—while enjoying my solo travel in Venice, and it was worth it! This is one of the cafes that even Lord Byron loved!
#2. Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale)
Next to St. Mark’s Cathedral, you’ll find the Doge’s Palace. This Gothic masterpiece was once the seat of Venetian power and justice, where the Doge (the Duke of Venice) lived and governed. Can you imagine living in such a magnificent place?
The Doge’s Palace in Venice was built in the 14th century, but don’t let its age fool you – it remains as grand as ever. As you wander through its luxurious rooms, take note of the “Mouth of Truth” – a mailbox where citizens could anonymously report crimes.
Don’t miss the famous Bridge of Sighs – according to legend, prisoners sighed as they caught a final glimpse of beautiful Venice before being taken to their cells. The romantic poet Lord Byron gave it this poetic name, and it has stuck ever since.
My Pretty Travels Tip: Book your tickets online in advance to avoid the queues.
#3. Rialto Bridge and Grand Canal
The famous Rialto Bridge – in Venice is one of the most important landmarks! Built between 1588 and 1591 by Antonio da Ponte (yes, his name literally means “of the bridge”!), this was the first stone bridge to connect the banks of the Grand Canal. Before this, there was a wooden bridge, but after several collapses (once due to the weight of the crowd!), Venetians decided it was time for something more durable. Today, the Rialto Bridge is not just a bridge – it’s a symbol of Venice.
The design of the Rialto Bridge was controversial at the time. Many believed it was overly ambitious and would collapse as well. However, here we are more than 400 years later, and it still stands strong!
“I stood in Venice, on the Bridge of Sighs; a palace and a prison on each side.” — Lord Byron, Childe Harold’s Pilgrimage, 1812
Shops selling everything from jewelry to souvenirs fill the bridge itself. And once you reach the top, take a moment to enjoy the enchanting view of the Grand Canal. Watching the gondolas pass beneath is truly dreamy.
Pretty Travels Practical Tips:
Access: The Rialto Bridge is easily accessible by foot or Vaporetto. Take line 1 or 2 and get off at the “Rialto” stop.
Shopping: While the shops next to the bridge are picturesque, they can be pricey. If you’re looking for authentic Venetian products (like Murano glass), explore the side streets.
My Pretty Travels Tip: If you want to see the bridge from a different perspective (and trust me, you do!), hop on a Vaporetto or take a gondola ride along the Grand Canal. The view of this historic structure from below is simply unforgettable!
#4. Gondola Ride: Prices and Should You Do It or Not on your solo travel trip in Venice?
I know, I know – a gondola ride in Venice sounds like a cliché and a super romantic experience. But let me tell you a secret: as a solo traveler in Venice, I found it just as enchanting (and much more affordable) to take a Vaporetto (water bus). You get to see the stunning canals without spending a fortune!
But if you’ve decided to take a gondola ride in Venice…
Practical Tips for Your Gondola Ride (even if solo in Venice!)
Prices and Bargaining:
- They fix the basic price for a gondola ride at €80 for 30 minutes during the day
- After 7 PM, prices rise to €100.
- Tip: Bargain before boarding and confirm the route!
- Ideal for groups of 2-4 people to split the cost.
If you don’t want to negotiate in Italian or their broken English, you can book your gondola ride here in advance.
When to Take the Ride:
- Early in the morning for soft light and fewer crowds
- At sunset for the most romantic atmosphere
- Avoid midday hours and tourist peak times – it gets crazy!
What to Expect:
Did you know that gondolas were once the main mode of transport for Venetian aristocracy? These elegant boats were so important that in the 16th century, the city regulated their design – every gondola had to be painted black to avoid showcasing wealthy families.
#5. Get Completely Lost
Let me tell you about my little adventure getting lost while I was doing my solo travel in Venice. I thought to myself, “I’ll just walk around, I’ll find my way,” but you know what? Venice is huge, and I got lost! You need a map – a paper map I mean – not your phone, because your phone doesn’t work well, Google Maps gets confused in the narrow alleys, it can’t figure out which is which!
And that turned out to be the best part of my trip!
I discovered hidden gems like small squares where locals gathered for afternoon chats, wandered into cute bookstores, and found the most charming cafés.
Thank God, a couple of Venetians I met showed me the way!
Shopping in Venice
Shopping in Venice is a unique experience. So, what should you buy in Venice?
1. Genuine Italian Leather
During my visit, I discovered a wonderful shop with leather goods that truly enchanted me! The shop offered genuine leather products, such as beautiful handmade bags and diaries, perfect for souvenirs. This little gem is located at Il Griffone, just a few steps from Piazza San Marco. Everything is handmade.
When it comes to shopping in Venice, there are so many wonderful treasures to discover beyond leather goods! Here are some items worth buying that capture the essence of this enchanting city:
2. Murano Glass
One of the most famous exports of Venice is Murano glass. Known for its vibrant colors and intricate designs, this glass is handmade in nearby Murano. You can find everything from elegant jewelry to stunning vases.
3. Venetian Masks
A visit to Venice wouldn’t be complete without a beautiful Venetian mask, which you’ll definitely need for the Venice Carnival if you visit during that time!
4. Burano Lace
This exquisite lace is crafted by skilled artisans and is available in various forms, from tablecloths to delicate accessories.
5. Gastronomic Delights
Don’t forget to try local gastronomic delights! Take home biscotti, cicchetti (small snacks), or even a bottle of Prosecco from the Veneto region. These treats make perfect gifts or souvenirs to enjoy with friends and family.
Venice – Where to Eat and What to Try
When it comes to food in Venice, the city is full of delicious options. Here are some of my top picks for where to eat and what to try:
Cicchetti and Bacari
Start your gastronomic adventure with cicchetti, Venice’s answer to tapas. These small plates are perfect for sampling a variety of flavors. Visit a bacaro (wine bar) such as Osteria Al Squero or Cantina Do Spade for a cozy atmosphere and delicious treats. Try:
- Sarde in saor (sweet and sour sardines)
- Baccalà mantecato (creamy codfish)
Pair these with a glass of local wine for a perfect Venetian experience!
Fresh Seafood
As a city on the water, Venice is renowned for its fresh seafood. Don’t miss the chance to try:
- Risotto al nero di seppia (risotto with cuttlefish ink)
- Spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with clams)
For an unforgettable seafood experience, visit Trattoria da Fiore, famous for its fresh seafood and traditional Venetian recipes.
Pizza and Pasta
Craving comfort food? Grab a slice of pizza at Antico Forno, where the crust is perfectly crispy and the toppings are fresh. For pasta lovers, make sure to visit Trattoria Al Gatto Nero on Burano Island. Their handmade pasta, especially the bigoli in salsa (thick spaghetti with anchovy sauce), is a must-try!
Gelato
No trip to Venice is complete without indulging in some gelato! Head to Gelateria Nico, known for its rich, flavorful gelato and breathtaking view of the Grand Canal. Try their signature gianduiotto flavor (chocolate-hazelnut) – it’s heavenly!
Venice – Where to Stay
When visiting Venice, staying in the heart of the city is a must, not in Mestre.
I insist on this! While most hotels in Mestre are more affordable, you only visit Venice once in a while, and nothing beats experiencing the city after the day-trippers have left, when Venice calms down.
For a quieter atmosphere but still close to the action, look for accommodations in neighborhoods like Dorsoduro or Cannaregio. And book early – Venice fills up quickly, especially during peak seasons! Don’t forget to check the below deals from Booking.com – many offer free cancellation.
Booking.comAt night, the city transforms into something magical – the canals glow under soft lighting, and the narrow streets are peaceful. By staying in Venice, you can enjoy gelato late at night by the Grand Canal or a quiet dinner at a cozy trattoria without worrying about catching the train!
Cities to Visit After Venice
If you’re planning your next destination after Venice, you have plenty of great options! Here are a few fantastic ones:
Verona
Just an hour by train, Verona is the ultimate romantic city, home to the Roman Arena and the famous Juliet’s balcony. You can read more about Verona and its attractions here.
Padua
Only 30 minutes from Venice, this city is perfect for a quick visit with its charming streets and historical sites. You can read more about Verona and its attractions here.
Bologna
A two-hour train ride away, Bologna is known for its rich culinary scene and medieval architecture. You can find everything about Bologna here.
Trieste
About two hours and some change, but definitely worth it for the mix of Italian and Austro-Hungarian atmosphere. Read all about Trieste and its attractions here.
So, are you ready to get lost in the magic of Venice? Trust me, even one day is enough to fall in love with this beautiful city.
Ciao, bella Venezia – until we meet again!
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