Venice till next time…

Our trip to Venice was short and sweet however we managed to fit it so much.

We arrived late we had booked a 2-night stay prior to boarding our cruise. Having chosen to stay in the Mestre area as the transfers were very reasonable and it has easy access to the island. The hotel was opposite the station from where it was 10 minutes by train to Venice Island and at €1.30 each way it was ideal. The Mestre area is very quiet and not a lot of restaurants so if choosing this area it’s probably wise to eat in the city before returning.

We headed in by train at 8 in the morning we arrived at the station In Venice  I couldn’t believe the grand canal was right there I’m not sure what to expect but it was stunning. We headed over the first of many bridges and I mean many.. Following signs for Rialto bridge on the way we passed the fish market where the locals were buying their provisions. The grand canal was so busy with water taxis and gondolas. I loved all the bridges, little streets, and squares. We were there in June and I must say it didn’t smell.

We had booked a gondola tour as part of our package and so pleased we did as it was quite expensive to do when there. We shared the gondola with a family of four who were celebrating special birthdays. We were very fortunate that one of the party was classically trained and sang for us it made it extra special.

On the afternoon we headed past St. Marks square to the grand canal and took a boat trip to the three islands of Murano,  Burano, and Torcello it was a lovely trip with free time at each island. We visited the glass factory on Murano which was interesting to see how it’s blown. All three islands were lovely to see however Burano was my favorite with its colourful fisherman’s cottages.

We did a full 12 hours in Venice that day and loved every minute of it. It’s defiantly a place we will revisit whether it’s an add-on to a cruise or as a land based holiday.

if you have any questions on Venice or cruises sailing from Venice please drop me an email or give me a ring 0333 3002639

Thanks for reading
Lauren