TRAVEL GUIDE
Venice
Venice is a city that needs no introduction, yet never fails to surprise. A unique blend of canals, historic architecture and timeless details, where the pace slows down and every moment feels more intentional.
Between art, craftsmanship and iconic views, the city is best discovered without a fixed plan, simply following its atmosphere. From quiet hidden streets to its most vibrant corners, Venice offers a perfect balance of tradition and contemporary energy, to be experienced with a sense of curiosity and ease.
Where to Stay
Hotel Danieli
A landmark stay set across three historic palaces, including the 14th-century Palazzo Dandolo. Rich in atmosphere, it blends heritage with refined interiors, with select rooms offering iconic views over the Grand Canal.
The St. Regis
Overlooking the Grand Canal just moments from Piazza San Marco, this elegant hotel combines a strong artistic legacy with contemporary design. Its garden terrace is one of the most atmospheric spots in the city for an aperitivo.
Belmond Hotel Cipriani
Set on the island of Giudecca, this iconic retreat offers a more private and relaxed perspective of Venice. Known for its understated luxury, lush gardens and Michelin-starred dining.
The Gritti Palace
A true Venetian icon overlooking the Grand Canal. With its historic interiors and timeless charm, it remains one of the city’s most celebrated and storied stays.
Hotel Flora
A hidden gem in the heart of the city, family-run and full of character. Antique details, floral touches and a quiet courtyard create an intimate, authentic atmosphere.
Violino d’Oro
Designed as a tribute to Venetian craftsmanship, this boutique hotel feels like a private residence. Artworks, vintage pieces and warm textures define its distinctive, curated interiors.
Palazzo Experimental
A more contemporary take on Venetian hospitality, located in Dorsoduro. Clean lines, curated interiors and a vibrant, design-led energy attract a younger, creative crowd.
Aman Venice
Discreet and ultra-refined, set within a historic palazzo on the Grand Canal. Known for its serene atmosphere, grand frescoed rooms and a sense of privacy rarely found in the city.
What to See & Do
Venice Art Biennale
One of the most important events in contemporary art, returning in 2026 across the Giardini and Arsenale. During its opening months, Venice becomes a city-wide exhibition of installations, pavilions and creative dialogue.
Gallerie dell’Accademia
A key destination for Venetian art, showcasing masterpieces from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance and offering a complete view of the city’s artistic heritage.
Museo di Palazzo Fortuny
An intimate and atmospheric space that reflects the creative world of Mariano Fortuny, where art, textiles and design come together.
Museo di Palazzo Grimani
A Renaissance palace where architecture and art collections coexist, creating a refined dialogue between classical works and contemporary perspectives.
Ca' d'Oro
One of the finest examples of Venetian Gothic architecture, now home to the Franchetti collection with important Renaissance works.
Peggy Guggenheim Collection
Overlooking the Grand Canal, this iconic museum houses one of Europe’s most important collections of 20th-century modern art.
Burano
A short boat ride away, known for its brightly colored houses and lace-making tradition, offering a quieter and more local side of the lagoon.
Santa Maria della Salute
A defining landmark at the entrance of the Grand Canal, admired for its striking domes and panoramic views over the city.
Dining Spots
Harry’s Bar
A true Venetian institution since 1931, known for its timeless elegance. Discreet atmosphere, impeccable service and a legacy rooted in classic European café culture.
Caffè Florian
Set in Piazza San Marco, one of the oldest cafés in the world. Ornate interiors and rich details capture the essence of Venetian opulence.
Locanda Cipriani
Located on the island of Torcello, a peaceful retreat surrounded by greenery. Traditional cuisine in a relaxed, authentic setting away from the city’s pace.
Ristorante da Ivo
A long-standing favorite in the heart of Venice, known for its refined take on Venetian classics and fresh seafood.
Ristorante Al Covo
Since 1987, a reference for lagoon-inspired cuisine, focused on seasonal ingredients and a genuine, welcoming atmosphere.
Aciugheta
Just steps from San Marco, a traditional bacaro ideal for cicchetti, wine by the glass and a lively, informal vibe.
Antica Locanda Montin
Tucked away in a quiet garden courtyard, offering homemade dishes in a relaxed and authentic setting.
Trattoria Da Arturo
A different take on Venetian dining, focusing on meat and vegetarian dishes rather than seafood, with a simple and bold approach.
Moro Venice
A waterside café and restaurant with a curated aesthetic, blending Venetian tradition with subtle French influences.
Gelateria Paolin
A historic stop for gelato, perfect for a sweet break or a slice of homemade tiramisu.
Cantine del Vino già Schiavi
Located in Dorsoduro, this old-school bacaro is known by locals as “il bottegon.” A favorite among both locals and students, it’s loved for its fresh, creative cicchetti prepared daily.
Aperitivo Spots
Harry’s Bar
An icon in the heart of Venice, known for its timeless elegance and classic cocktails. Perfect for a Bellini or a Negroni in an old-world atmosphere.
Cip's Club
Set within the Belmond Hotel Cipriani, overlooking the water with views of St. Mark’s Square. Ideal for a relaxed yet refined aperitivo.
Bar Longhi
Located inside The Gritti Palace, known for its intimate setting and expertly crafted cocktails, including tableside martinis.
St. Regis Bar
A contemporary space within The St. Regis Venice, perfect for an aperitivo with Grand Canal views and modern takes on classic cocktails.
Il Mercante
A retro-inspired cocktail bar known for its creative drinks and attention to detail. A more refined, off-the-radar address.
Vino Vero
In the heart of Cannaregio, a reference point for natural wine. Lively atmosphere, ideal for a casual aperitivo by the canal.
Experimental Cocktail Club
Located along the Zattere, a speakeasy-style cocktail bar with a contemporary approach to mixology and an international feel.
Adriatico Mar
A small waterside wine bar, perfect for organic wines and a relaxed aperitivo with local products.
Piccolo Bar
Inside the Violino d’Oro, an elegant cocktail bar with contemporary details and outdoor seating.
Breakfast Spots
Caffè Florian
Founded in 1720, one of the most iconic cafés in Italy. Perfect for a classic breakfast in a timeless setting, surrounded by elegant interiors and historic charm.
Pasticceria Da Bonifacio
An authentic, understated bakery where the scent of freshly made pastries sets the tone. Traditional specialties and a simple, local breakfast experience.
Pasticceria Tonolo
A true local institution since 1886. Known for its cream-filled pastries, best enjoyed standing at the counter with an espresso. Arrive early for the best selection.
Pasticceria Rizzardini
A small, old-school pastry shop with a lively local atmosphere. Famous for its veneziane and quick espresso rituals, with no seating but plenty of character.
Dal Nono Colussi
A family-run bakery since 1956, known for traditional Venetian sweets including fugassa. A more authentic stop with a strong sense of heritage.
Shopping Spots
MC2 Saint Barth
Calle de le Ostreghe, 2357 – 30124 Venice.
Piedàterre
The go-to for traditional Venetian friulane, handcrafted in velvet and offered in a rich palette of colors.
Chiarastella Cattana
Elegant home textiles inspired by the lagoon, combining natural materials with a contemporary feel.
Laguna B & Nason Moretti
Murano glass at its finest, where heritage techniques meet bold, modern design.
Micheluzzi Glass
Handcrafted glass pieces that reinterpret tradition through a refined, contemporary lens.
Micromega
Distinctive handmade eyewear, known for its lightweight structure and creative, often retro-inspired designs.
