Guides
Ultimate Guide To Venice for First Timers
The light on the canals shows Venice exactly as I imagined.
I’d been wanting to go for so long, but it was never the right time. Then one day, I had a few days off, spotted a cheap ticket to Venice, and just went for a solo trip. It turned into one of those little trips I’ll always remember… watching the sunrise over the canals, with that magical light that makes the city feel like a dream.
Venice is a city like no other. Built on more than 100 islands, connected by canals and bridges, it’s just incredible. Visiting for the first time can feel a bit overwhelming—so many sights, so many famous spots everyone says you must see.
By the end of this guide, you’ll see how to enjoy Venice beyond the crowds, discover the local gems, and create memories that stay with you long after you leave.
Things to Know
Before planning a trip to Venice, there are always the same big questions that pop up (the same I had before going) :
Is Venice expensive?
Yes and No! People often say Venice is pricey, especially if you stay right by the main sights. But honestly, it’s like any other big city—you can also experience it in a more local, affordable way. For example, I stayed in Mestre, ate cicchetti or pizza at local spots, and always made sure to enjoy my spritz away from the touristy areas. With a few small choices like that, Venice doesn’t have to break the bank at all.
When to go?
Spring (March–June) and early fall (September–October) are the sweet spots: good weather, less crazy crowds. I went in March and the weather was absolutely gorgeous—it felt like the perfect mix of sunshine and fresh air. It was just after Carnival, though, which I kind of regret missing, because Carnival in Venice is something you really want to experience at least once! And if you’re into art, don’t forget about the Biennale, which is another cultural highlight.
How to Get There?
You’ve got options! Venice Marco Polo Airport connects you to the city by bus, taxi, or the very scenic water taxi. If you’re coming from somewhere else in Italy, trains (The Train company in Italy : Trenitalia) drop you right at Santa Lucia station—literally on the Grand Canal. And if you’re driving, remember cars stop at Piazzale Roma because Venice itself is car-free.
How to Get Around?
Your feet will be your best friend—Venice is made for wandering. For longer trips, the vaporetto (water bus) is super handy and doubles as a canal cruise. Gondolas are more of a bucket-list ride than actual transport, and water taxis are fast but definitely pricier.
Unique Things to Do (&The Essentials)
Sure, the main attractions are worth a look, but the real magic is exploring Venice without ticking boxes.
The best way? Get lost in the canals, wander the streets, and find hidden gems. Learn about the history through museums or free walking tours (like Guru Walk), sip an italian espresso and soak up the local lifestyle.
Walking through St. Mark’s Square is a must—you can’t visit Venice without seeing it at least once. That said, don’t plan to stay too long; it’s the epicenter of Venetian tourism and can get really crowded. My favorite moment? Heading there after going up the Campanile just before it closed, right at sunset.
Seeing the square and the city bathed in golden light, and then watching the lights turn on as night fell, was absolutely magical. For a few perfect minutes, it felt like Venice had opened up a secret just for me.
The Rialto Bridge is one of those must-see spots in Venice, and the views over the Grand Canal are just incredible. Most people just rush across or hang at the sides for a quick photo, but my tip? Pause in the middle for a few minutes. You’ll get a completely different view of the canals, the gondolas, and all the little details of daily Venetian life. Go early in the morning, when the market is waking up and the bridge isn’t yet packed with tourists—it’s the moment Venice feels truly authentic.
Take a Gondola Ride (or Just Watch!)
Gondolas are probably the most iconic thing in Venice, and I get why everyone wants to ride one. Honestly, they’re fun to watch gliding through the canals even if you don’t hop in—plus, they can be pretty pricey. My advice? Take a walk along the canals or hop on a vaporetto instead—you’ll get just as amazing views of the city from the water without spending a fortune. Watching the gondolas float by at sunset is honestly just as magical, and for photos, I actually think it’s even nicer to see them from the outside rather than riding in one yourself.
An overcrowded bookstore—but totally worth it if you love books and huge collections. Everyone shuffles along the only path through the store, queuing as they circle around the famous gondola full of books. I went because it’s considered a must-do, but honestly, you can easily skip it, i would have if i knew.
The Bridge of Sighs, or Ponte dei Sospiri, is a famous bridge in Venice. It was built in the 1600s and got its name because prisoners would sigh as they crossed it, seeing Venice one last time before going to jail.
Before seeing the Bridge of Sighs from below, take a walk on the Ponte della Paglia, which passes right in front of it. That way, you can see the Bridge of Sighs from a distance, because you can’t actually walk on it.
The view from under the bridge is really beautiful: a gondola gliding along the canal, sunlight reflecting on the water… it feels so peaceful and perfectly Venetian.
I fell in love with the light there. It was absolutely amazing—especially if you come early in the morning (I came for sunrise and honestly, I had no words for it. I was the only one with few people heading to work…). It felt almost unreal. From the bridge, you get one of the most famous viewpoints in Venice (the kind you’ve probably already seen on postcards or Insta).
You’re looking straight down the Grand Canal with the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute in the background, framed by gorgeous Venetian architecture and those iconic little wooden pontoons with their striped poles. It’s one of those spots where you just want to stop and snap a hundred photos.
Walking along the Fondamenta Zattere in Venice is such a peaceful escape from the usual crowds. The wide promenade stretches along the Giudecca Canal, and as you stroll, the city feels calm, almost like it’s revealing a secret corner just for you. It’s quiet, the water gently laps at the edge, and the light—especially in the early morning or around golden hour—is just magical. Right there, you’ll also spot Il Palazzo Experimental, a chic little hotel that perfectly fits into this serene, almost hidden part of Venice.
Cannaregio is one of Venice’s most authentic districts and quickly became my favorite neighborhood in the city. It’s way (way) less touristy than San Marco and full of charm, with canals, bacari, and such a local vibe. I first discovered it on a free walking tour in the Jewish district, which taught me so much (trust me, you’ll learn a lot and see Venice in a whole new way)—I would have missed a big part of the city without it. My favorite street is Rio de la Misericordia: have lunch at Sullaluna Libreria & Bistrot (their selection is so refined and delicious), then grab a gelato at Bacaro del Gelato and sit by the canal before just wandering around and getting lost in its little streets. Honestly, exploring Cannaregio like this was the best way to soak up its authentic vibe.
Eat Chiccheti & Drink a Spritz
If there’s one thing you have to do in Venice, it’s grab a Spritz and snack on Cicchetti—Venice’s tiny, tasty bites that feel like tapas. Tiny sandwiches, fried seafood, marinated veggies… all the little things you can try while sipping an Aperol Spritz.
Here are two spots that feel truly Venetian:
– All’Arco – Small, bustling, and loved by locals. Their sardines in saor are insane, and the house wine goes perfectly with any cicchetti.
– Osteria Al Squero – Right by a gondola workshop, this spot is perfect for a mid-afternoon stop. The meaty crostini and fresh seafood bites are perfect little snacks while you watch gondolas glide by.
Take your time, try a few bites at each spot, sip slowly, and just soak in the rhythm of the canals. Trust me—this is how Venice stays in your heart long after you leave.
For modern art lovers, the Peggy Guggenheim Collection in Dorsoduro is a true gem. Housed in Peggy’s former palazzo right on the Grand Canal, the collection is stunning—from Picasso to Dalí to Pollock—and the palazzo itself adds so much to the experience. It’s intimate, personal, and you can really take your time. Plus, the terrace overlooking the canal is such a peaceful spot to pause for a moment. Even if you’re not usually a museum person, this place has such a cool vibe that it’s worth a visit.
Want to escape the crowds? Head to Castello to see a more real side of Venice. Walk its narrow streets, enjoy quiet canals, and find hidden squares where locals hang out. Stop by small shops, have a coffee in a cozy café, and see beautiful churches like San Pietro di Castello. A great place to explore slowly and feel true Venetian life.
Take a Day Trip to Murano & Burano Island
Murano is famous for glassblowing, and watching the artisans at work is mesmerizing—it’s also possible to buy pieces straight from the source. From Venice, it’s 10–15 minutes by private water taxi or 20–25 minutes by vaporetto. Plan 2–3 hours to explore it.
Then take a 40-minute vaporetto ride to tiny Burano, where every street feels like a postcard. Colorful houses, lace-making, and cute cafés make it a dream to wander. Go early for the best light and to avoid the crowds.
For public transport, a 24-hour vaporetto pass (€30) covers all rides and is the easiest option for a day trip. I do regret not going myself, though—the day I had planned it was cloudy, and this place really deserves sunshine for Nice Colors.
Final Thoughts
Venice is touristy, I won’t lie—cruise ships, packed alleys, the whole thing. But here’s the secret: you don’t have to follow the crowds. Wake up early, wander off the main streets, and suddenly Venice feels calm, local, and magical.
And about the budget? Honestly, it was one of my cheapest trips. Of course, you can spend big if you want—but you can also do it differently and still live the real Venice.
Because in the end, it’s not just about seeing Venice—it’s about living it. The canals, the light… it’s breathtaking.
So plan your trip, take your time, and let Venice surprise you!
