Venice – one of the most romantic cities in the world

It is impossible to find a list of the most romantic cities in the world without Venice. But what is it about this city that makes it so special?

♥ Its construction

Venice is situated on 117 small islands separated by canals and connected by bridges. But most of the buildings weren’t built on islands – instead, they were constructed on stone plates, which are supported by submerged wooden piles. Even after so many centuries of submersion, the foundations are still mostly intact.

♥ Its history

From its foundation in the 5th century AD, throughout the Middle Ages, when it was considered as a very important center of commerce and the first international financial center, to a very important World Heritage site… Venice always proved to be one of a kind.

♥ Its beauty

First, there is the fact that in Venice there are canals instead of streets and boats instead of cars. This sole fact adds to the city’s appeal. It is also known for their unique glass art, the so-called Venetian or Murano glass. It is famous for being colorful and incredibly elaborate. Like the glass, Venetian masks are just as diverse in color, shape, size, design and decoration. They are an important feature of the traditional annual festival held in Venice – the Venetian carnival. And lastly, there is their amazing architecture. Just take a look at their (mostly) Gothic buildings, bridges, narrow streets, and fairytale piazzas and you will fall in love.

The thing that charmed us the most is the special Mediterranean vibe. There is something inexplicably beautiful about most of the medieval coastal cities, towns, and villages in Europe. It is the intoxicating combination of the sounds, sights, culture, art, passion, warm weather and the smell of delicious food and Mediterranean sea.

Things to see

Although the whole city is an undeniable architectural masterpiece, here is the list of the must-see attractions:

• Piazza San Marco or St Mark’s Square (the main square)

• Saint Mark’s Basilica (the cathedral church on St Mark’s Square)

• Campanile di San Marco or St Mark’s Campanile (the famous bell tower on St Mark’s Square)

• Doge’s Palace (palace and museum on St Mark’s Square)

• Grand Canal (the city’s main waterway)

• The Rialto Bridge (the iconic bridge across the Grand Canal)

• The Bridge of Sights

Things to do

• Since Italian is one of the best cuisines in the world, make sure to try some of their most famous dishes (pizza, pasta, lasagna, tortellini, bruschetta, tomato and mozzarella cheese salad with basil and extra virgin olive oil, prosciutto, and olives). You should also taste the local wine and drink a cup of Italian coffee and for dessert cool down with a fine Italian gelato (ice cream), try some delicious Panna Cotta or Tiramisu.

• Explore the local art scene. You can visit one of the numerous prominent museums or admire the work of talented street artists.

• Climb up the tallest building in Venice (Campanile di San Marco) and enjoy the excellent view of the city, the lagoon and the Dolomites in the background (on a clear day).

• Enjoy the vibrant Mediterranean atmosphere, the sound of local music in the background and the people’s passionate nature.

• If you decide to visit Venice in February, make sure to attend the Venetian carnival.

• Venice is one of the most important tourist destinations in the world and is also very popular among celebrities. Maybe you should keep an eye out for familiar faces. 🙂

• Rather than buying decorative souvenirs, buy some practical items made of Murano glass for everyday use. For better deals visit small local shops on Murano island.

• Get off the beaten track and find your own favorite spot.

Budget

Venice isn’t cheap. The cheapest private rooms in the city cost around 70 EUR (74 USD). Cheaper accommodations can be found just outside the city. You can also try Airbnb or Couchsurfing. Dining in restaurants is pretty expensive (from 17 to 55 EUR, 18 to 58 USD for a meal with drinks), but pizzas and other snacks are much cheaper. Since Venice is a pedestrian city, at least don’t have to worry about transportation (parking outside the city can be pretty expensive, though).

Where to stay

You can find nice accommodation options on Booking. Make sure to search for private rooms popular for romance. 😉 On Airbnb you can rent furnished apartments – those are usually cheaper than most hotels and they offer you the real Venice experience.

Best time to go

All year round. The high season is during the summer, although the temperatures can get uncomfortably high. To avoid the crowds and high temperatures, spring or fall would be a better time to go. If you visit the city in February, you should attend the Venetian carnival and on the first Sunday of September, you can enjoy the annual Regata Storica, the historical water parade along the Grand Canal.

***

Note: Venice is definitely a must-see destination, but you have to hurry up. Due to climate change, floods have recently become more common. Venice is slowly sinking and it is in danger of disappearing. You should visit it before it’s too late.

♥ Top romantic experience

A private Venetian gondola ride is probably the most romantic thing you could ever do. Plus, it’s a fast and effective way to see the city’s highlights and enjoy the beautiful scenery. It’s a definite must-do for all you lovebirds.

♥ Top adventure

Boat tours, guided walking tours and food and wine tasting tours are very popular on the main island. And on the neighboring island – Venice Lido, you can even rent a scooter, discover its less crowded surroundings and enjoy the view.

Have you already been to Venice? We invite you to share your top romantic experience and top adventure in the comment section below. 😉