What To See And Do In Venice

Tom and I have just got back from a truly romantic trip away to the stunning city of Venice. It was all we had hoped for and more, and so I thought I would share with you some of our highlights and recommendations of where you should go and what to see if you're planning a trip to this 'floating city'. I have also included some top tips of things to remember when visiting Venice that might prove helpful to you.

Places To Visit

1. St.Mark's Basilica

You can't come all this way to Venice without paying a visit to this exquisite and lavish cathedral. The architecture is truly astonishing - the intricate detailing on every wall, ceiling and floor is awe-inspiring. From the polished marble pillars to the mosaics, from the gold-leaf designs to the paintings. Entry is 3 euros per person, but please be aware there are extra hidden costs once inside if you wish to see more. If you want to see the altar then that is an extra 5 euros each, and to visit the museum upstairs where you can also access the balcony outside, which offers impressive views of St Mark's Square and beyond, then that costs an additional 7 euros per person. In my humble opinion, it's totally worth it.

2. Palazzo Ducale

Adjoining St. Mark's Basilica, is the Palazzo Ducale, otherwise known as the Doge's Palace, which was once the grand residence of the former Doge of Venice and where the Venetian government met and the politics of the day were discussed. The Gothic architecture of this Palace is a masterpiece, and well worth a visit. Here you can walk through the famous Bridge of Sighs, which serves as an overpass to the prisons in the Palazzo. The doomed name of the Bridge came from the final walk the prisoners would take as they saw the Lagoon for the very last time before being condemned to death for their crimes. The cost to visit is 30 euros each, but this also gives you entry to three other local museums, as long as you visit within the specified time given.

3. Murano

When visiting Venice, take a water bus (the water bus is an awful lot cheaper than taking a water taxi!) to Murano, a tiny island where the gorgeous glass is created that you see all over the city. There are glass factories where there is free entry to watch the glassblowers at their craft, which is fascinating to behold. I dare you to not leave this place without coming away with some beautiful Murano glass treasures!

Experiences Not To Miss

1. Right up there as one of the top things to do in Venice, is the popular Gondola ride. It's romantic, soothing, informative and a relaxing way to explore some of the city. Our Gondalier shared historical facts about Venice as we glided along the canal, and pointed out some exciting sights (such as the square where a scene from 'Spider Man: Far From Home' was filmed!). The price for a Gondola ride before 12 midday is 80 euros, and 100 euros after 12 midday (this is regardless of how many are in your party). We took a ride in the afternoon, and because our hotel had a deal with the Gondoliers, we got the reduced rate of 80 euros, and so saved 20 euros.

2. Although eating and drinking directly in St. Mark's Square is very expensive, if you can afford to have a drink and listen to the live music at the Florian, then this is an experience not to be missed. On our final evening in Venice, we enjoyed a cocktail sitting outside whilst being serenaded to a mixture of classical music, such as Vivaldi, as well as some well-loved tunes from films and musicals like 'My Heart Will Go On' (Titanic) and 'Memory' (Cats). Truly a memorable way to spend an evening and a very special finish to our holiday.

3. Make sure you visit the Rialto Bridge if you visit Venice! Venice's largest bridge on the Grand Canal, it hosts a variety of little shops and provides some stunning views. There is also a large choice of eateries either side of the bridge, where you can enjoy a meal or a nice drink as you look out over the water and watch the Gondolas and boats drift by.

Top Tips!

• Take plenty of spending money so you have enough to enjoy the wining and dining (and to bring back some gorgeous Murano glass) - Venice isn't cheap!

• Choose the time of year you go carefully - we went the end of April, which is pretty ideal, as although we were surprised by how busy it was, it gets way busier in later months, and you don't want it to be too hot for a city break, especially with all the crowds.

• Be prepared to queue! We had to queue for quite some time to get into both Palazzo Ducale and St. Mark's Basilica. It took us almost two hours to get into Palazzo Ducale!

• Take a selection of clothing so you can 'layer up' as necessary. During the day it was mostly warm, but chilly at times, especially being right by the coast; and in the evenings you will especially appreciate warmer clothing.