Venice on a weekend
Jun 27th, 2014, 07:21 AM
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Venice on a weekend
Experienced Fodorites are the greatest help, thus seeking your advice.
We will be traveling around Europe and everything is all planned and set. We will be in Venice from a Saturday afternoon to all day Sunday.
Have read a guidebook and am trying to figure out some good plan to see as much as possible in the short time. Our hotel will be close to airport as we have a very early morning flight on Monday.
Please help with some easy sightseeing idea for Sunday.
Thanks for your great help. I am also getting some ideas from a couple of other threads currently running about Venice.
Have a great day.
We will be traveling around Europe and everything is all planned and set. We will be in Venice from a Saturday afternoon to all day Sunday.
Have read a guidebook and am trying to figure out some good plan to see as much as possible in the short time. Our hotel will be close to airport as we have a very early morning flight on Monday.
Please help with some easy sightseeing idea for Sunday.
Thanks for your great help. I am also getting some ideas from a couple of other threads currently running about Venice.
Have a great day.
Jun 27th, 2014, 07:39 AM
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any Venetian sighseeing IME centers first around taking a boat ride down the Grand' Canale - to me one of the most delightful things to do in Europe - take a public 'vaporetto' boat down this watery gauntlet lined by stately if slightly crumbling and fading facades of ancient palaces - go in day and go in night.
At night when these pastel-hued facades are sublimely illuminated may even be more a treat than in the day.
another 'must' thing to do in Venice IMO is to get off the very beaten path - the poedestrian main drags between the parking lots at Pza Roma and the train station area and San Marcos - this is often elbow to elbow but just a few 'blocks' away is a serene Venice where few of the mainly day tripping tourists ever venture.
At night when these pastel-hued facades are sublimely illuminated may even be more a treat than in the day.
another 'must' thing to do in Venice IMO is to get off the very beaten path - the poedestrian main drags between the parking lots at Pza Roma and the train station area and San Marcos - this is often elbow to elbow but just a few 'blocks' away is a serene Venice where few of the mainly day tripping tourists ever venture.
Jun 27th, 2014, 07:50 AM
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PQ--Thanks for your prompt reply. You are so full of knowledge, I appreciate your time.
Would it be a good idea to buy a vaporetto pass since we are staying close to airport.
There are so many old, historic and beautiful churches in Venice and with limited time we can only see a couple of them.
Would you recommend any that are specially unique.
Once again many thanks.
Would it be a good idea to buy a vaporetto pass since we are staying close to airport.
There are so many old, historic and beautiful churches in Venice and with limited time we can only see a couple of them.
Would you recommend any that are specially unique.
Once again many thanks.
Jun 27th, 2014, 08:13 AM
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Vaporetto pass - last time I was in Venice it was cheaper to buy a boat pass if taking more than one trip - a single ticket was something like 7-8 euros or some obscenely high fee yet the day pass was just a few euros more.
In addition to the main basilica on St Mark's Square - of course also a must thing to visit - the square itself and leave time for lingering - at night I love to sit in the square and listen to the several string orchestras playing baroque music - you can sit at tables in the various caffes but also just linger around the square - so so pleasant.
The consensus three major churches in addition to St Mark's are the Frari Basilica (the one I like the most), San Zaccaria Chruch and the Church of Madonna dell'Orte - they are slightly off the main tourist gauntlet and each very very majestic.
Merano is often listed as a must and to me the major reason to go to one of the islands is that then you can see Venice from over the water - seem it levitating so lovely from afar - ancient mariners first glimpse of Venice was from the water and how their excitement must have risen the closer they got to then what was perhaps the world's most opulent city.
Merano itself I find way way too tourisy - though it is interesting to see the glass blown if time is precious I'd forego that - on the way to the airport you'll get even a more distant view.
One place I like in Venice proper is the Via Garibaldi - a regular street like in any Italian town - lined by shops, caffes, gelato places, etc - except here just bricks and no cars and no mopeds - the walkway going from St Mark's to the eastern (?) tip of the island leads to it.
The ancient Arsenale also intrigues me - the old ship-building facilities - it used to be a vaporetto went thru it but not sure now - also near the eastern tip of Venice and where few of the maddening crowds head.
About the boat pass - not sure if airport boats are covered but if taking just a few rides in Venice proper it's a great deal and I always love just hopping on a boat and exploring from it.
Another must sight of course is Rialto - with its famous humpbacked bridge and outdoor food market.
In addition to the main basilica on St Mark's Square - of course also a must thing to visit - the square itself and leave time for lingering - at night I love to sit in the square and listen to the several string orchestras playing baroque music - you can sit at tables in the various caffes but also just linger around the square - so so pleasant.
The consensus three major churches in addition to St Mark's are the Frari Basilica (the one I like the most), San Zaccaria Chruch and the Church of Madonna dell'Orte - they are slightly off the main tourist gauntlet and each very very majestic.
Merano is often listed as a must and to me the major reason to go to one of the islands is that then you can see Venice from over the water - seem it levitating so lovely from afar - ancient mariners first glimpse of Venice was from the water and how their excitement must have risen the closer they got to then what was perhaps the world's most opulent city.
Merano itself I find way way too tourisy - though it is interesting to see the glass blown if time is precious I'd forego that - on the way to the airport you'll get even a more distant view.
One place I like in Venice proper is the Via Garibaldi - a regular street like in any Italian town - lined by shops, caffes, gelato places, etc - except here just bricks and no cars and no mopeds - the walkway going from St Mark's to the eastern (?) tip of the island leads to it.
The ancient Arsenale also intrigues me - the old ship-building facilities - it used to be a vaporetto went thru it but not sure now - also near the eastern tip of Venice and where few of the maddening crowds head.
About the boat pass - not sure if airport boats are covered but if taking just a few rides in Venice proper it's a great deal and I always love just hopping on a boat and exploring from it.
Another must sight of course is Rialto - with its famous humpbacked bridge and outdoor food market.
Jun 27th, 2014, 09:29 AM
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Airport boats are a separate fee and different boat system from the travel card for the vaporetti. I suspect the OP may be able to reach their hotel but local land bus which would be included in the travel card--check with the hotel.
I suspect Pal is referring to the island of Murano. (Merano is a town in the mountains about 3 hours from Venice.)
I suspect Pal is referring to the island of Murano. (Merano is a town in the mountains about 3 hours from Venice.)
Jun 27th, 2014, 12:35 PM
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I suspect Pal is referring to the island of Murano.>
Yes indeedy! Murano - though I rather like Burano (sp?) better but it is an island much farther away and Torcello, and its famous colony of feral cats, even more - rather deserted feeling there - but in such a short time I'd stick to main Venice - maybe go over to Guidecca, an island right opposite St Mark's Square just to get a view of that sublime place from across the canal.
Venice to me is a visual feast and just wondering always brings a new delight at many of the turns you must take.
Venice is compact but it is so SO easy to get lost - but never worry as you are not far from where you want to go but don't know it - easy to go in circles... get a map from the tourist office in the train station or at St Mark's Square and still be prepared to get lost!
Yes indeedy! Murano - though I rather like Burano (sp?) better but it is an island much farther away and Torcello, and its famous colony of feral cats, even more - rather deserted feeling there - but in such a short time I'd stick to main Venice - maybe go over to Guidecca, an island right opposite St Mark's Square just to get a view of that sublime place from across the canal.
Venice to me is a visual feast and just wondering always brings a new delight at many of the turns you must take.
Venice is compact but it is so SO easy to get lost - but never worry as you are not far from where you want to go but don't know it - easy to go in circles... get a map from the tourist office in the train station or at St Mark's Square and still be prepared to get lost!
Jun 27th, 2014, 01:43 PM
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Burano and Torcello are IMHO much more interesting and less touristy than Murano (which can be a zoo at times), but farther away. However, I would not recommend doing any of those three islands, given your time constraints.
With only a day and a half, (Sigh!) I have to recommend staying on the main island. Do the basics: San Marco (St Mark's), a canal ride down the Grand Canal, and a couple of self-guided walks that would inevitably include some of the other churches and sights mentioned above (and that will be mentioned in future opinions.
One not-as-touristy suggestion that does not take a lot of transport time: Take Vap #2 (only one stop from San Marco/San Zaccaria) to the small, nearby island of San Giorgio Maggiore...it has a very nice 16th c. church with a campanile that affords you a fantastic panorama of the main island and the lagoon.
SS
With only a day and a half, (Sigh!) I have to recommend staying on the main island. Do the basics: San Marco (St Mark's), a canal ride down the Grand Canal, and a couple of self-guided walks that would inevitably include some of the other churches and sights mentioned above (and that will be mentioned in future opinions.
One not-as-touristy suggestion that does not take a lot of transport time: Take Vap #2 (only one stop from San Marco/San Zaccaria) to the small, nearby island of San Giorgio Maggiore...it has a very nice 16th c. church with a campanile that affords you a fantastic panorama of the main island and the lagoon.
SS
Jun 28th, 2014, 07:03 AM
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PQ and SSander thanks for your suggestions. I hope I will be energized to not only enjoy Venice, but take some time out to explore the other islands.
I doubt we will have time for all three, I might just choose one.
I would love to buy some Murano glass jewelry so plan to spend some time hunting for bargains. I believe the real Murano jewelry is beautiful but high priced.
So, I will enjoy a mini shopping spree as I do some window shopping to find some bargains. Maybe I will be successful.
Have a splendid weekend.
I doubt we will have time for all three, I might just choose one.
I would love to buy some Murano glass jewelry so plan to spend some time hunting for bargains. I believe the real Murano jewelry is beautiful but high priced.
So, I will enjoy a mini shopping spree as I do some window shopping to find some bargains. Maybe I will be successful.
Have a splendid weekend.
Jun 28th, 2014, 07:24 AM
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To my mind, the number one thing to do in Venice is wander around getting lost. You can't really get lost; it's not that big a place. Riding the vaporetto comes in at 1.5 -- because it's often so crowded.
Of almost equal importance is staying inside Venice itself. I'm not sure why you're staying near the airport (early flight?). But, especially in the mornings and evenings, the experience of staying -- living -- inside Venice, is unforgettable. No cars, no trucks, no vespas. Just water traffic and the lapping of the water in the canals. Hotels in Venice are more expensive but very much worth it.
Of almost equal importance is staying inside Venice itself. I'm not sure why you're staying near the airport (early flight?). But, especially in the mornings and evenings, the experience of staying -- living -- inside Venice, is unforgettable. No cars, no trucks, no vespas. Just water traffic and the lapping of the water in the canals. Hotels in Venice are more expensive but very much worth it.
Jun 28th, 2014, 07:26 AM
#11
Lots of very bad advice here.
You are only in Venice for a day and a half, you don't have time to visit Murano or Burano.
You aren't even staying in Venice, but at an airport hotel and you have not mentioned how you plan on getting into Venice.
Venice is very crowded now, so expect long lines for anything in Piazza San Marco area.
You also don't know Venice so you will spend a lot of time getting lost and fighting way through crowds.
You, unfortunately, have not mentioned what you are interested in (art, churches, architecture) so no one has offered a possible itinerary.
You, my dear woman, have underestimated the scope and magnitude of Venice!!!!!
Thin
You are only in Venice for a day and a half, you don't have time to visit Murano or Burano.
You aren't even staying in Venice, but at an airport hotel and you have not mentioned how you plan on getting into Venice.
Venice is very crowded now, so expect long lines for anything in Piazza San Marco area.
You also don't know Venice so you will spend a lot of time getting lost and fighting way through crowds.
You, unfortunately, have not mentioned what you are interested in (art, churches, architecture) so no one has offered a possible itinerary.
You, my dear woman, have underestimated the scope and magnitude of Venice!!!!!
Thin
Jun 28th, 2014, 08:01 AM
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You vcan buy Murano glass right in Venice itself - lots of shops and porbably as cheap or cheap than on Burano itself!
You, my dear woman, have underestimated the scope and magnitude of Venice!!!!!>
baloney - Venice is small and compact - do as mimar says - just get lost - the best of places are not on the tourist trail - best of places are where only you and some feral cats are there - then Venice takes on a romantic lure not available in St Mark's Square or the beaten tourist track.
You, my dear woman, have underestimated the scope and magnitude of Venice!!!!!>
baloney - Venice is small and compact - do as mimar says - just get lost - the best of places are not on the tourist trail - best of places are where only you and some feral cats are there - then Venice takes on a romantic lure not available in St Mark's Square or the beaten tourist track.
Jun 28th, 2014, 07:47 PM
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It seems like getting lost in Venice is part of being a tourist. Thus may be fun as we will challenge ourselves to find our way out of the maze.
Thanks for letting us know that getting lost is normal there thus we won't be totally frustrated.
PQ thanks for the tip of buying Murano glass in Venice.
Thanks for letting us know that getting lost is normal there thus we won't be totally frustrated.
PQ thanks for the tip of buying Murano glass in Venice.
Jun 28th, 2014, 07:55 PM
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Make sure you do some research on how you will get in and out of Venice from your hotel. There are several options, I've taken a water taxi which from memory took about 30minutes. Anything else will take a lot longer and eat into your time.
If you do get lost in Venice, sooner or later you will spot directional signs on the walls of buildings. They will help get you back on track.
If you do get lost in Venice, sooner or later you will spot directional signs on the walls of buildings. They will help get you back on track.
Jun 29th, 2014, 10:00 AM
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Thanks to Fodor's--I have friends all over the globe like Cathies in Australia.
PQ, Pepper and others where are you all located?
I am in Northwest US
Hope your weekend is relaxing.
PQ, Pepper and others where are you all located?
I am in Northwest US
Hope your weekend is relaxing.
Jun 29th, 2014, 11:52 AM
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Deep in the great woods of Northern Michigan, on the Au Sable River, one of the premier canoeing and trout fishing rivers in the US.
I too wonder exactly where Pepper is from! I'd say the Big Apple as a guess.
I too wonder exactly where Pepper is from! I'd say the Big Apple as a guess.
Jun 29th, 2014, 12:05 PM
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ileen: please reconsider your airport hotel.
The best suggestion I read on this thread is for you, with your very short time, to stay near Piazzale Roma and get a taxi in the very early morning to the airport.
The hotel will order the taxi for you.
Coming in to Venice on Saturday afternoon, means you will need to get to the airport on Saturday night.
Then, on Sunday morning, you will need to get to Venice.
Then, later or Sunday you will need to get back to the airport.
Each of these trips is very time consuming and expensive.
How are you getting to Venice in the first place?
The best suggestion I read on this thread is for you, with your very short time, to stay near Piazzale Roma and get a taxi in the very early morning to the airport.
The hotel will order the taxi for you.
Coming in to Venice on Saturday afternoon, means you will need to get to the airport on Saturday night.
Then, on Sunday morning, you will need to get to Venice.
Then, later or Sunday you will need to get back to the airport.
Each of these trips is very time consuming and expensive.
How are you getting to Venice in the first place?
