24 Hours In Venice

This week my lovely client Mrs S booked a cruise departing from Venice.  Because of the flights we had to book one night pre cruise stay which means she has a day to explore.  You may think what is the problem, but if you had never been to Venice before and only had 24 hours like she has, what do you do?

First thing I would point out to you is where do you stay.  As you know Venice has many islands. The main island is the “historic centre” where you will find all of the main sights such as St Mark’s Square.  The other Island you could stay on is called Mestre. This is the more residential area and so much cheaper.  To get to the historic centre you can travel by train.  Remember if you want to be in the heart of Venice then be prepared to pay more.

So, now onto all the sights you can cram in on your whistle stop 24 hr visit!  The Rialto bridge is not to be missed, it is one of Venice’s most-photographed bridges. Then there is of course the bridge of sighs – which earned its name as the bridge that led convicted inmates to the prisons, they are said to have “sighed” as they went across it.  For me though the best part of Venice is the Piazza San Marco, no matter how many times I have been to Venice, it still takes my breath away.  Here you have St Mark’s basilica and the Doge’s palace.  All around this square there are very expensive shops and some lovely coffee stops – however be aware this is the most expensive area in Venice!  It is well worth paying the money I think, to have a coffee and just watch and take it all in.

From St Mark’s Square (Piazza), there are winding medieval streets taking you to more shops and hidden little squares the more you walk of course.  From many of these streets you can of course take a gondola ride which everyone wants to do. Again, be aware they are not cheap but if it is your first time in Venice I think you have to do it as it is just fantastic. See the Grand Canal and many other “bits” properly!  The Grand Canal is such a busy waterway, again worth it to find a bar, have a glass of wine and take it all in.

In your 24 hours if you find you have done all of the above then you could visit the Guggenheim art museum (if this is up your street), or even try your luck at going to Murano home of the famous glass.

Remember food and drink is more expensive in the more “touristy” areas, so amble a bit further and you should be able to find somewhere to fit your budget.

If you have any hidden gem areas of this wonderful city, please let me know and enjoy your next visit!

Till next time x