Venice tourist traps: Cafe' Florian, Harry's Bar and Gondola ride....would you or won't you? Did you?

1) Didn't do it because I haven't heard of it. Did I mention my Venice guidebook was very tiny and uninformative?

2) Harry's Bar - didn't do it. We walked by during the day and it was closed, and we never got around to it at night. I don't feel like I missed out on anything.

3) Gondola - didn't do it. Once we got there and saw people riding around in them, it just didn't seem worthwhile. If I had it to do over again, I *might* do it. If I had unlimited vacation funds, I would definitely do it, just because, well, why not?

Florian in 1999. No Florian on this trip. You don't really need to sit down to hear the music. I guess it's good to do once.

Gondola ride on this trip. Also thought it was a bit of a waste -- but then, again, I think it's good to do once.

No Harry's Bar. Maybe on a future trip?

Two trips to Venice and no to all 3. Just have other ways to spend my money.

Only did the first - actually, I don't think sat at Florian, but one of the other cafes on San Marco (just as expensive). We went after dinner and between the 2 of us, we had 1 gelato, and I had a pot of tea. The total came out to € 35. Was it worth it? Yes, I think so. We were on our honeymoon at that time. Probably won't do it again.

No, no, and no.

I think all three have become expensive tourist-trap products, and I find that a turn-off. Would you expect to encounter Venetians using them?

As you have decided to blow €80 on a gondola ride, let me point out to you that a gondola is only a bloody rowboat.

I wouldn't rec. Harry's Bar. I went there on my first trip - found the bar cramped and lacking atmosphere. I was disappointed.

You have to do the gondola ride, try to stick to the smaller canals, we loved that.

Will be in Venice next month, we plan to visit Cafe Florian or one of the other places to hear music. Ridiculously expensive, but we think it will be a nice memory. And after walking all day it will be nice to sit and listen to music for a few hours.

Enjoy your trip..

Harry's Bar is claustrophobic and lacking in any atmosphere. Walk by, pop your head in and leave. Have a drink outside at San Marco and people watch-very entertaining.

1)Yes. It gets pretty tiring walking and standing all day. Being able to sit over a drink, listen and people watch was well worth it as my feet were killing me.

2)Didn't do it.

3) I thought it was totally worth it but also was on my honeymoon. Totally different view of the city. Just find out what the government set price is (this varies-day versus night,etc.) so you don't get ripped off.

Returning to Venice in November. Previous visits never did gondola but we plan to do it this time, as we are celebrating a significant anniversary and figure that justifies the cost. Only live once and all that, right?

hi, a'seeker,

florians - did it on first visit with DH over 25 years ago. would i do it again? - only if I were so tired I couldn't go another step, but it is fun, especially when they are competing with another orchestra.

Harry's Bar - never done it in 3 visits.

Gondola ride - almost did it on our last visit; may well do it next. better value if four of you can share.

regards, ann

Florian...yes

Harry's...no

Gondola ride..absolutely because it was fun and certainly, as much as anything, is a "symbol" of Venice..both the boat and the fact that the Venetias have always been masters of the "commerce" game.

Tourists do certain things and flock to certain places for a reason.

Haven't done Florian or Harry's Bar, but did do a gondola ride and LOVED it!! It is a wonderful way to experience the city. Try to do the smaller canals AND the Grand Canal - fun to go from one to the other. So what if it's touristy?? I've also been on a camel trek in the Sahara and plan on riding an elephant in Thailand this March - how else can we have these fun experiences?

Loved our gondola ride, and we might do it again.

Haven't had a drink at the Florian, but I wouldn't rule it out for our trip next June.

Looked inside Harry's, didn't do anything for me, hustled back to our hotel and had moonlight drinks on the deck on the canal for 1/3 the price.

1. If it's a pretty evening I would say yes.
2.We went to Harry's Bar on our first trip to Venice and it was quite a letdown. There was no atmosphere and the only thing we got out of it was the story to tell of how expensive it was.
3. Yes. Sure it's touristy and expensive but it really is worth it. I think it's more beautiful to go at night.
IMO Venice is the most magical city I've visited.

No, no, and no - better ways to spend my money and way to much else to see and do in Venice (including just walking around and riding on the water taxis).

Each time I go to Venice I sit either in Florian or Cafe
Quadri and I enjoy being there. Sometimes they have not been playing music so I enjoy them as well.
The Florian is amazing inside, those red velvet and golden plush banquettes like it was in the XVII
century. I fancy the days that Casanova might have been there, or so many other in their the rigeur visit to ITaly. Like may be Goethe. It is not expensive for what they are, for where they are located. I have been in Venice during the WInter, and I have found both cafes quiet and half empty, even better.
I am glad that the Venecian authorities have finally reacted and now they try to impose some decorum and common sense in the Piazza San Marco. By decorum I mean to forbid people to abuse of the beautiful space of the piazza and let the rest enjoy the privilege of being there.

Florian - no
Harry's - no
Gondola - twice. First visit to Venice with mi Chica and then young (10 year old)son. We went during the day for almost an hour. We enjoyed the ambiance and the canal view perspective. Best was the Gondolier who kept up a commentary on what we were seeing - he was a great guide - that alone was worth the price. My son who is now in his 30's still has that memory.

The second time was with DD and we bought tickets to an evening gondola caravan. That is an arrangement where a group of gondolas go out together and they are shared. That was great fun. There was an accordian player and an old man who sang with the widest vibrato I ever heard. For the two of us, the price was about 2/3 the cost of booking an individual gondola.

Harry's Bar I've done 6 of the past 7 visits and only didn't do it the 7th because I didn't know you couldn't wear shorts there. My husband had them on -- long jean shorts and it was our last day with a train leaving shortly so we didn't have time to go home and change. It was our first time there in summer so it never came up before since we have always gone in October/November/December hence always had long pants or a skirt on. Maybe I just go out of nostalgia at this stage -- my parents took me there once as a kid and explained to me its rich history. The Bellinis are not only expensive, but TINY, so be warned. The restaurant is actually very highly regarded but VERY expensive. I've never actually had a full meal there but we did order the grilled ham and cheese sandwich as a snack to share both in Venice and in NY's Grand Central Station and thought it was delicious. If you don't eat there, definitely pick up one of the cookbooks -- we've made many of the dishes and they have all been to die for even when made by an amateur like myself. If you're lucky, you'll see Harigo there himself -- he does spend every night there when he is in residence from my understanding -- we caught him there once and he was very friendly -- we were sitting next to his table where he was showing the prototype of his canned Belinis to either a friend or investor/business partner -- not sure which! He even offered us a taste!

Oh, and his name is Arrigo, not Harigo as I thought. You can see more about the history here: www.cipriani.com

I was there last week for the first time - struggling to be back at work...

1) yes - cool experience for the first trip. cost is a little silly though including cover charge and 8E to listen to the music...

2) yes - was ok - roughly the same price as Florian (a little less) and the martini was not as good, my girlfriend drank the belini

3) didn't do it - saved the money we would have spend and went to Cipriani for dinner instead, not an equivalent cost i know (we did pizza at our b&b the night before to even it out)- Cipriani is an experience full of pomp and circumstance (along the same lines as the 3 questions). the food was great, service great and the private mahogany boat ride across the canal was our substitute for a gondola.

the gondola's looked like fun though for a first trip... maybe next time.


have fun!

Yes
No
Yes, twice.

Background. A family member who was a paraplegic traveled the world for 2 years almost 40 years ago. The one place that she could not go because of her physical limitations was Venice. So when we went, she said she would have loved to go to Cafe Florian. So obviously that was a must for us, with pictures for her. Even without that nudge, we enjoyed it and would do it again.

The goldola ride we did our first and last evenings.

You only live once, and if you enjoy something then do it. We don't regret either of these even though they were expensive. And yes, sharing the pictures was priceless, as the commercials say.

We had a drink inside Cafe Florian. It's like sitting inside of a jewel box. Very cool. Well worth the cost.

Unless you hire a water taxi, you should take a gondola road on the small interior canals. Otherwise, there is a whole aspect of Venice that you won't see. The rear of the buildings face the streets.

(Oops - I meant to refer to riding the vaporetti, not water taxis!)

We were on the vaporetti, a private boat provided by the hotel and a gondola. In my opinion, it was not the same feeling or as much fun as the gondola.

I have never gone to Florian or Harry's.

We bought bottled Bellinis and took them on our gondola ride. My husband (boyfriend at the time) and I loved the gondola ride. We caught one just as the sun was starting to go down and the misty darkening atmosphere in the little canals added to Venice's allure.

Our guide gave us some commentary, restaurant recommendations and had a great sense of humor. He actually even sang several opera songs, but I understand that most don't sing. Enjoy your trip!

No, three times-that's not my thing!

Speaking of Venice, I feel kinda chipper, my friends in Venice have just invited me to come over-any time after November -and stay in their darling one bedroom apartment (has everything, dishwasher, washer, cute pine rafted slanting bedroom with views out the window to San Marco (hard to the left), and in front, Gesuati near Fondamenta Nove- GRATIS.

Such a dilemma! One bedroom apartment in Venice, all to myself, get to see my friends, sit out on the Campo San Polo with our spritz and talk about politics (Parisian/Venetians-much to talk about!) oh no, I don't think that's so great...

I've been to Venice three times now, and am leaving later this week for a fourth visit (husband's first trip to Venice). I've never been to Cafe Florian or Harry's Bar. I wanted to go the first time, but didn't because it was too expensive. The second and third times -- eh. As others have said, I have better ways to spend my money.

I did take a gondola ride once, and I totally forgot I'd done it! My husband asked if we were going to ride "in one of those boats" and I told him, sure, that I'd never done it. Then I thought some more about it and remembered that I had done it. Shows you how memorable an experience it was for me.

Over 5 visits to Venice, have done all three and would do again.

Florian (have sat inside during the day, outside at night) was, yes, expensive, but you can sit for hours if you want. I LOVE sitting outside at night, nursing along a drink or cafe and listening to the music.

The gondola ride we have now done 3 times, so yes, have done it and would do it again. Being on it and riding along the small canals is a very different experience from observing it, day or night.

Harry's is small, without views, and yet worth doing at least once IMO -- the Bellinis were tasty and the service outstanding and it's one of those spots I always wanted to see.

we didn't do any of these three tourist things in Venice and we enjoyed our trip - in fact we had a great time.
however, it might be fun to experience and if you have time, what's the harm?

Florian--no but we will try it in November.
Harry's--yes and the Bellini is very small and expensive but we thought it was a fun place--raining so we sat inside.
Gondola--yes and it was worth it--you do see the backsides( and interiors ) of buildings you otherwise do not see. We may do the ride again but caravan style.
I bought a gold gondola charm for my bracelet at a Rialto Bridge shop and it cost less than the gondola ride.

Gee it may be considered a tourist trap, but NOT sitting in St Marks under the moonlight listening to the music would seem like a big part of a stay in Venice was missing. It is worth the huge price for a drink (and yes all 3 to 4 of the places seem to charge pretty much the same) in my opinion. I find it hard to think of another setting in the world where you can enjoy that particular experience.

There are some things that it just becomes silly to avoid because the locals wouldn't do it. What a dumb reason NOT to do something -- unless you're a local, and even then I think it would be a silly excuse ("we don't do it because no one else does"?)

And while I've never gone for the gondola ride, again I totally understand the splurge. You're in Venice, for God's sake, why worry about whether locals would do this? Where else can you take a gondola ride like that? And please don't tell me in Las Vegas.

1) Didn't sit at Cafe Florian. personally I found the San Marco cafe scene very depressing since the cafes were so empty. For local flavor, try Campo Santa Margherita. It was a hopping place and great for people watching.
2) Did not do Harry's Bar
3) I was debating the gondola ride til the last day, and I am very glad we chose to do it. Very relaxing and a unique perspective on Venice. We left from Santa Maria del Giglio and had a lovely ride through back canals, finishing up on the Grand Canal. Perfect.

Wow.....great responses.

Here's my verdict on the poll:

1) yes, yes and yes. We planned to sit outdoors, but the description of a "jewel box" and Casanova indoors is intriguing.

2) We'll scratch the Bellini at HB(Sorry Harry or Mr. Cipriani!)

3) Gondola ride on the smaller canals....a must.

Neopatrick, you get my vote for such a FABULOUS post. I wholeheartedly agree with every word....eloquently put.

"Beauty truly is in the eye of the beholder" It never ceases to amaze me how the same experiences affect people so differently.

yes, totally agree, neopatrick. Trying not to be a tourist in Venice would be counter productive I would think.

I have been to the Florian numerous times. Once during Carnivale which was so exciting. Sipping a drink while sitting next to Casanova and Marie Antonette was quite fun. It is the best setting for a cafe on earth.

Harry's did nothing for me, very noisy and full of loud drunk people. I would like to go back when it is quieter and romantic.

Absolutely loved the gondola rides. I have been on a few romantic ones and one where we went down and across the Grand Canal in a storm. Quite interesting.

SeaUrchin wrote: "Trying not to be a tourist in Venice would be counter productive I would think."

I doubt if many people would suggest otherwise. But that does not mean that one has to like Café Florian or Harry's Bar or rowboat rides -- or like paying the excessive prices they charge.

These places/experience are simply icons. Cafe' Florian affected some posters in a certain way that was worth it to them. Based on their description....that is the "quintessential" Venetian experience that I'm looking for. One that moves and inspires me.

And if "quintessential" is too touristy or overrated, than so be it. ....I only need to please myself and myself alone (oh....and my DH. But if I'm happy, he's happy!).

The excessive charge may be worth it (or not) if it gives one a lifetime of memories. It all depends if it was worth it to you. And it would be worth it to me. Remember that "it's not the breaths you take, but the moments that take your breath away".

....Hence, eye of the beholder. And I'm a diehard romantic. Watch out Venice!

I'm one of those who have never been particularly enamored with Piazza San Marco due to those damn pigeons (which are going to be controlled soon via some sort of birth control and ceasing of the selling of corn)and the throngs of tourists-I prefer the smaller campos in San Polo and Cannaregio. I've gone over a week in Venice and maybe walked through San Marco once on my way to somewhere else.

1. Yes. About five of us shared a bottle of Prosecco and it was marvelous!

2. Yes. I took my 2 college age children. I know it will be my last trip to Europe with both of them. They will remember.

3. Yes. Are you kidding? I'd do this even if I were backpacking through Europe. Our ride was just before sunset and it was magic.

Girlspytravel,

I have bookmarked so much advice from you about recommendations in both Venice and Florence which I truly appreciate.

It seems that you have either lived or spent blocks of time in both places so I can completely understand your reply. I, too, would be tired of the throngs of people after being a "local". (And quite frankly I probably will be too in our short 4 days in Venice)

My question to you....how did Venice affect you the very first time you laid eyes on her? Wasn't the Piazza San Marco magical at that very moment?

I don;t think any of them are tourists traps.

They are things you can get only in Venice, have high costs and pass them on.

If you don;t want to do them - that's fine - but don;t call them tourist traps (to me those are the tacky restaurants right near major attractions with menus in 14 languages and soggy pizzas for $30).

The 3 things you mention are expensive - but you get what you pay for. Have eaten at Harry's several times and always enjoyed it - finding the food better than some other well-reviewed local restaurants - never mind the wonderful views.

have been in Venice twice and both times did all three. On our second visit I protested each (no. 1,2,3)as being too expensive and my husband's response was ..... as was coming here.... and was glad my husband insisted.

AS a previously posted the bellini's at Harry's Bar are tiny, but good and the ham and cheese sandwiches were outstanding. And our waiter was very entertaining, telling us stories about the bar and its patrons. Good time.

nytraveler,

You're right...the term "tourist traps" was a bad choice.

Icon or Institution is much better.

I wonder how many people scoff at taking a gondola in Venice but enjoy a canal cruise in Amsterdam or a Seine cruise in Paris..?

I can't imagine much worse than spending a week in Paris and spending the time washing my car, cleaning my apartment, going to buy necessities, and cooking and cleaning because that's what the locals do. I'd much rather be joining the tourists taking a cruise on the Seine, going up the Eiffel Tower, and visiting the Louvre. I've just never understood this "avoid the touristy" thing.

Venice 5 times, several weeks total, have never done any of these things, never even been the least tempted, except maybe by the gondola, but its just so phony, associated in my mind with groups of Japanese tourists, rather than a mysterious couple gliding through a quiet side canal...

Venice as a whole is more interesting and impressive than any of the must dos and must sees.

Cafe Florian at night, was magical. We paid 15E for an ice cream sundae, then 10E for 2 coffees, plus the 8E table fee. But we sat for 2 hours, people watching, chatting with folks from all over the world, listening to wonderful music and even dancing to a tune or to. Very romantic, and quintessentially Venetian vacation. Totally worth it.

Harry's Bar: we skipped it. I don't drink alcohol and without the Bellini, why bother?

Gondola ride: we skipped that too. It was in the mid 80's when we were there and the people we saw in the gondolas looked miserable in the heat and there were so many of them it seemed rediculous to pay that kind of money to just float along with the crowd. Perhaps at night along the smaller back canals it would have been special, but riding the vaporettos (definitely buy a pass)was so enjoyable we couldn't see paying 90E to be rowed in a gondola.

Cafe Florian - 12.50 Euros for a coffee and Coca Cola Light was extortionate but the music preformed by the string quartet was astoundingly good.

Harry's Bar - went the whole nine yards and spent a small fortune in the restaurant upstairs. Never again.

Gondola - didn't do the gondola thing. Although I did cross the Grand Canal on a traghetto (gondola ferry) near Ca D'Oro. It was standing room only! But it did only cost 50 cents!


________________________________
Please feel free to read my Venice trip report
http://www.colin-julie.com/Venindex.htm

Florian--nope, mainly because I don't care for that type of music. I'd consider it though if I were traveling with people who wanted to do it.

Harry's. YES! I'm one of the few who actually enjoyed this place. Granted, it was a couple visits in 1999-2001 when the exchange rate vs. the USD was very advantageous, so the Bellini's weren't quite so ridiculously priced. There was no crowd on my visits there, mid-afternoon during late autumn or early winter. Back in the US the trend is outrageously priced maritinis at bars and clubs, so what's wrong with overpaying for an Original Bellini in Venice?

Gondola--haven't done it. Don't want to deal with the gondolier's B.S. and the expense. As with the above poster, the Traghetto ride was just fine!

Cafe Florian- absolutely- at least once. Just to think of how long its been around, to enjoy the memory every time you read about characters in a book drinking there...and the elegant little touches make the overpriced drink fun. A lot cheaper than the gondola ride!

Gondola- life is short. Why not? This last trip though, I took my 13 year old on the Traghetto. She can enjoy it later on her own.

After reading through the thread I think a lot of people had negative images/views because they were in Venice in midsummer - when it's most crowded and hottest/stickiest.

We have always been in either the spring or fall - and while not empty, we've always had pleasant weather - and never found ourselves ripping over people.

Yes, the gondola ride WAS romantic - and no they weren't packed in like sardines - which would have ruined the romance.

And perhaps the prices didn;t seem so high to us in comparison to New York - versus comparing them to a small town.

But - the prices at the San Marco cafes seem perfectly reasonable given the location and the music.

And we've always found the food at Harry's - which is upscale - to be excellent - and by no means the most expensive in Venice. We've been to other places that cost more and the food was mediocre at best.

I did all three in Venice, and am glad I did. They seemed to be part of the quintessential visit to La Serenissima. Would I do them again? No, except for the gondola ride with the right person.

I ended each of my three nights in Venice in the piazza at a different cafe each night. It was a nice place to unwind with a drink and just soak it all in.

Didn't bother with Harry's Bar since I got decent drinks (including a bellini) with the piazza atmosphere at the cafes.

I did not do a gondola ride because I was there on my own...didn't want the expense or the awkwardness of doing it alone. However, under the right circumstances and with the right person, I would.

The best time to visit Florian is late at night when all the day trippers have gone back to Maestra. You don't really pay $15 for a glass of wine and some nuts at Florian, you pay $15 to experience the VIEW of Venice's living room.

I would also only take a gondola ride after dark when the moon is high in the sky and your lover is sitting beside you. Ahhhhhhhhh.

The Great and Powerful Thingorjus

In answer to all three -- We would and we did. Why? Because it was our first trip to Venice, it was our 25th wedding anniversary and we were enthralled with everything touristy and non-touristy. We quite simply loved it all.

I knew there were romantics out there!

Instead of one night at the Florian, I might be inspired to end every night there...I like how you think Amyb.

Marginal_Margiela: You're so right....if you have to question the price of the drink, you're not getting the value out of the experience.

We did it all...and I would have regretted not doing it, no going back for us, just forward on travel. It was raining like crazy & we ducked into Cafe Florian, our own table, on St. Marks Square, holding hands, what could be better (we've been married 20 years)! Harry's Bar; very crowded but grabbed a table, ordered 2 Bellini's for about 12 euro each, such interesting people next to us, the stylish young women loved my perfume. I had just bought it since I couldn't bring any in my carry-on, made my day! Gondola Ride...oh just do it, why not. We also loved the private boat ride (not gondola) from our hotel Palazzo St. Angelo on the Grande Canal (which has a private boat dock)to dinner, then thru the canals afterwards. You are making me smile! Now back to planning France in 3 weeks. I'm a firm believer in endulging on vacation & I will save the rest of the year. Forgive the spelling errors...enjoy your trip. I bought a beautiful unframed oil painting of the Venice from the artist on the Grande Canal which it now getting framed for my renovated Tuscan/Venice remodel, down to the replasterd walls. That is how much we enjoyed Italy! Sorry to ramble but remembering is so much fun.

Had afternoon tea at Cafe Florian. It was the best part of our trip to Italy. Went about 3 p.m., the sun was hitting the Doges Palace reflecting off from the panels onto St. Mark's Square - beautiful. I took pictures. The pigeons were flying overhead. The orchestra at the Florian was playing tunes from the Sound of Music. It was great to have a seat and people watch, even other people on the next table. Wonderful atmosphere!!! Had our picture taken and used it for our Xmas card. My daughter will be honeymooning in Italy next week. I hope she has the chance to go to Cafe Florian. We loved it!
Harry's Bar - didn't go but ordered a bellini at another restaurant. Didn't think it was too extraodinarily special.
Didn't do the gondola ride. No one ever told us that at certain times of the day the water smells like a fish tank that needed cleaning. We did go on other means of transportation through the canals and to Murano. It wasn't like Chasing Liberty - some look very commercialized although there was one on a side canal that if we had more time, may have bargained for a ride. Enjoy your trip!!!

I have to agree with NeoPatrick and nytraveler, they seem to have summed it all up for me. I have done all 3 and with that said probably will not do it again. We were in Venice in July on our first trip and this past May on our second trip. Night and day, black and white, HOT and not. If you only travel in July and August you will always have a different perspective on things because of the weather. May was magical, the gondola ride at night in May on a back canal is not to be missed once in your life. Not the Grand Canal, but a back canal at night. We went to Harry's Bar just for the Bellini on our second trip, as we were taking friends who absolutely wanted to go there. I have a picture of the 5 of us standing at the bar holding our 15 euro each bellini's on my desk. I smile every time I look at it. Yes, you are a tourist. If this is your first time, go for it. How can you come back from Venice and say to people you didn't take a gondola ride??? That is the icon of Venice. Now, if you have been there many times, I can see why it wouldn't mean anything, but most people only get there once in their life. If you have to question prices, then why are you going to Venice in the first place? It is the most expensive city in the world and you know it before you go, so do the tourist thing. nytraveler, we spent an evening drinking Long Island Iced Teas in the Oak Room bar in the Plaza in NYC 2 years ago and that bill was a lot more than Cafe Florian, Harry's and a gondola ride put together!
Dave

I love the interior of Cafe Florian. We went the first trip and had a coffee and hot chocolate. A few years later we took my parents and they really loved it. One of the few places packed with tourists that I still love.

AdventureSeeker, I've lost track or maybe you don't say when you're going but San Marco is really nice at the end of the day in the off-season. I was there in early May and there were maybe 50 people tops, but those bands played to win us all to their tables. I'm not sure if it's like that all the time, but it was nice to not be squished in with throngs of people.

Also, I found it very romantic in Piazza San Marco at sundown and also sunrise. I am the least artistic person you'll ever meet, but I finally saw what is meant by light changing the way buildings can look at different times a day. At sundown, the Basilica is a beautiful soft orange with beige and white and grey. Early early morning (before my 6 am ride to the airport) it was all pinks and lavender. Just beautiful. And that early, you're up before most of the pigeons and anyone else is around, so the piazza is all yours....

very much enjoyed reading all your posts. Three seniors hope to be in Venice next April and to do all this fun stuff. Is there some place to reserve for caravan ride on a gondola ....American Express office or some such.......

We've been to Venice three times.

Florian's every time- love to people watch there. Will go aganain next trip.

Harry's twice, not again- too expensive for a drink in a bar.

Gondola- twice. Loved it both times, but would probably not do it again.

amyb,

We'll be in Venice the 2nd week of October (in 20 days...yes, we're counting).

I just posted another topic: "Venice in 3 weeks-narrowing down choices". I'd love your input if you get a chance to check out the thread.

Your description of Piazza San Marco is diving...and yes, you are artistic! Or...you found it in Venezia.

amy,

Ignore the word "diving" in previous post....s/b DIVINE!

I hadn't heard of Cafe' Florian until this thread. Which of the cafe's lining St. Mark's Square is it?

We are going back to Venice in a few weeks. I was there once before and although we enjoyed St. Mark's Square at night, we didn't sit down, but just strolled around.

Can you give me an idea of the cost to sit at a table? A couple of the posts alluded to it. Is there an 8E table charge in addition to about 12E per drink? If there are a number of us, would we all be able to sit even if some of us did not buy drinks? If I know the details, I'd be able to decide what to do. I'm always afraid of getting myself into a situation where the cost is a huge surprise.

Debbie

I enjoyed Cafe Florian and the gondola trip. Yes, they are expensive but fun, especially for first-timers. I've been to Venice twice and did the gondola trip both times and found it to be worth it, especially if you find a gondolier who is charming and willing to negotiate.

Harry's Bar was overcrowded and overpriced. I can say I had a bellini there, but I wouldn't go out of my way to do it again.

I belileve that all of you are supposed to order something. I do not think it is reasonable to take so many seats of prime location and do not drink at least a coffee. I know you mean well but this why the Venetians are tired of tourists. Let me tell you something in New York City, ages ago, I went for lunch while working at a simple coffee shop on 42 street and Second Avenue, my boy friend came along but he already had had lunch and guess what? the waiter charged him 25 cts, in those days like 5 dollars today, only for sharing a tiny, tiny table with me while I was having a half an hour max. luncheon....

traveler2005:

here's a link to the Florian that has photos. http://www.caffeflorian.com/

It looks sublime....

traveler2005, If you are facing the Basilica, the Florian is on your right side, a few doors down. SOmetimes there are chairs set up outside, sometimes not.

Thanks for the information on the Florian. Now that I know about it, I'll want to go there. The prices would really be the price of the experience - no different than paying for the admission to a museum or for a tour. I'm OK with it if I know what to expect.

Graziella5b - You have a good point. We certainly wouldn't want to take up seats from others. There may be several of us and I wasn't sure if someone didn't want a drink if they could sit with us or not.

Is the table fee one fee for the entire table?

Years ago, on our honeymoon actually, my DH and I went to a restaurant out east somewhere. I wasn't feeling well and didn't plan to eat. I was told that I'd have to pay a plate fee in any case. That was the first time I'd ever encountered that and have never seen it again. It wasn't a famous spot and I don't recall it being very fancy either. But, as with anything, it is their business and they can set their own rules.

Debbie

>>There may be several of us and I wasn't sure if someone didn't want a drink if they could sit with us or not.<<

How do you define drink? It doesn't have to be alcoholic - it can be coffee, tea, fresh lemonade (spremuta di limone), probably even just mineral water. Whatever it is, it will cost more than it would almost anywhere else, but that's the price you have to pay if you want to take up space at Florian.

As far as I know, it's not a "table fee"; it's a surcharge during any period during which the orchestra/string quartet/whatever is playing, and it is per person. If you are going "in a few weeks", there may no longer be any music.

1) Didn't do and not familiar

2) Did do and wouldn't do again. Nothing really special. Had better Bellinis elsewhere

3) Did do and would absolutely do again. We went just prior to dusk and got to view the city with all the lights. A wonderful experience!

Debbie

i was there recently in the evening before dinner - there was a 4E cover charge per person for sitting down - we had two drinks (1 glass of prosecco and 1 martini) then there was a single charge for the music (which was excellent) of i think 8E

total bill = approx. 40E (drinks were 10E - 15E each)

a lot for two drinks, but given the surroundings (imo) worth it. you can easily pay that for two drinks in a fancy NYC bar (the old oak bar comes to mind) without the view.

traveler2005/Debbie-

When we were there in Oct 2005, the price was € 4,50 "music charge" per person.

One place I did not sit for drinks (but only because I didn't have another night to do so) was the place on the piazzetta, around the corner from the dueling bands in the square itself, and sort of right on the Grand Canal. They had musicians there as well and I think the view would be interesting and different, and probably cooler at night, which can be good or bad depending on the time of year. Just so you know....

http://www.kodakgallery.com/I.jsp?c=v3wm5ex.9hh8e2y9&x=0&y=-7r8iz5

My 2 favorite pictures inside the Florian.

hi adventureseeker. love your screen name! We were in Venice in late May and we didn't go to Florian or Harry's Bar (peeked in the latter but decided it wasn't worth our time or money), but we did take a gondola ride on a small canal near the Rialto. OUr hotel (Novecento---fabulous!!!!) recommended going to San Sofia to ride the gondola and we had a wonderful time, about 40-45 min for 80euro, and we passed by Casanova's house. It was our first trip to Venice so we thought it would be fun, it was, and we probably won't do it again but glad we did. We were advised to get away from the San Marco area because there's so much congestion (and extra cost!) that you could spend part of your time in a traffic jam on the smaller side canals. But I think it's just something that's fun to do, then walk over to where the gondolas are built/prepared and have a gelato nearby; one of the best gelaterias (other than in Florence, but that's another story). If you have the money for a little splurge, I would go for the gondola ride; it creates more memories than sitting at a bar. Enjoy your trip--it will be a bit of magic! And make sure you look for the most awesome street musician we ever saw/heard, the guy who plays Bach and such on wine glasses! Unbelievable!

The gondola ride is worth it. How many times in your life will you be able to do it? It was an unforgettable experience for us. We bought nice champagne glasses and some local prosecco and drank champagne as we passed under the Bridge of Sighs. The gondolier sang, we sang some duets....

When there with my parents in Dec of 2004, I was so sad that my parents decided against a gondola rise. They thought it was too dangerous because there were no life jackets. I tried to convince them but no luck.

sandi, your parents sound like mine. They justified a lot of things like that. But what they really meant was "it costs too much". They were just trying to justify their penny pinching ways. LOL

my answers will probably be like the others--
1--you don't have to have a drink here-- you can listen to the music close by. Fun.
2- Didn't go.
3- Yes, absolutely. My husband did not want to do it. We were a group of 6 so it seemed worth it. Once we started-- it was sooooooo relaxing and lovely. But try to do it near sunset in an area that is not too crowded.

Didn't do any of this. I was fascinated by the crooked streets of Canareggio and wanted to stay there forever, but not to go to the gondola rides or overpriced cafes.

I think refusing to do any of these things because they are "too touristy" is like refusing to go see and/or go up the Eiffel Tower, especially on your first trip to Paris.

Give me a break, those are some of the things that ARE Venice. Would I do each time I go, no. But the first time I went to Venice, I did do a gondola ride and did go to Harry's. The first and second time I went to Venice I did go to Cafe Florian or one of the other cafes in San Marco, especially in the evening to hear the music. Was it expensive? yes....but if you go to London, will you not stay in a hotel room because it's too expensive?

In my opinion there are 3 types of travelers on this thread:

1) those who go to savor the experience and know that it comes with a price. And with that kind of mindset, chances are they'll walk away with a memory that will last a lifetime (or simply say, it wasn't worth it...won't do it again).

2) those who appreciate these icons in Venice, but don't want/or can't pay the price (or simply say it isn't worth it to them).

3) those who flatly refuse because it's too this (ie. touristy) or too that. ....Kinda sad.

I find adventureseeker's judgment offensive. Neither figuratively nor literally do I buy into these expensive diversions as iconic of Venice: I see them as overpriced tourist traps, and I believe that mine is a defensible position, not one to be dismissed as "kinda sad" just so that adventureseeker can make herself feel better.

If having a drink at night in St. Marks is a "tourist trap", then I suppose sitting at any cafe in Paris would be the same? I mean after all you could stand inside at that cafe and drink for less so "obviously" they're ripping you off by charging you for the atmosphere -- just like at St. Marks. right?

If taking a gondola ride in Venice is a tourist trap, then I suppose riding a mule in the Grand Canyon or taking the ferry from San Francisco to Sausalito would be also.

I actually feel sorry for those who worry so much about "tourist traps" that they miss much of what foreign cities offer. Some people like doing things just for fun -- not just to be "politically or culturally correct".

here is an interesting mini history of the gondolas, since the 11th Century and in the 16th century there were 10,000 gondolas!

http://tinyurl.com/2bmsr4

I took a seat at a table outside the Florian to write some postcards since that seemed to be the only place to sit. I ordered an espresso. When I asked for my bill, I was surprised that it included a surcharge for the orchestra. But in relation to what I spent on the trip, it was cheap. As a solo traveler, I usually don't do bars and in my estimation, Harry's Bar is over-hyped, anyway. Haven't done the gondolas and won't next time either, but as some of the posters have said, not going on the gondolas (at least for a couple or a family) is like going to Paris and not visiting the Eiffel Tower.

Sea Urchin, interesting link, especially when you consider that the gondola is a tourist trap, it's comforting to know that there must have been at least 20,000 tourists in Venice at any given time in the 16th Century -- that's just allowing two people per gondola!

NeoPatrick wrote: "I actually feel sorry for those who worry so much about "tourist traps" that they miss much of what foreign cities offer."

I don't believe you. I think you are playing the game of representing your opinion as superior.

Sorry, you don't believe me but it is the truth. I DO feel sorry for those who miss out on things because they don't want to do the touristy things. I'll even admit to doing that myself. Case in point. First three times to Key West I refused to ride the Conch train even though friends were doing it. "It's a tourist trap" I declared. On a later trip I did and learned so much about Key West and enjoyed it immensely. That was one of several experiences that made me realize that the most "touristy" things many places offer are really the best or among the best of the area -- that's often why they're so popular. I am very glad I got over that feeling of superiority that made me think I was ABOVE doing what the common tourists do. Now I often see, do, and enjoy things I'd never have done before.

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

"I think you are playing the game of representing your opinion as superior."

Funny, Padraig, I could say the same thing about your statements. It sounds to me when someone calls major sites tourist traps they are representing themselves as being superior to doing that. In other words, that their opinion is superior to those who do those things.

NeoPatrick: Geez, I can't believe I have been in Key West 3 times myself and have never ridden the Conch train. You just convinced me to do it the next time I'm there. Vive the tourist trap!!
dave

NeoPatrick, I give my opinions about places and products; I think that is fair discussion.

I do not expect everybody to share my views. Nor do I describe as "kinda sad" those who state a different view, nor do I suggest that one should feel sorry for them. That's moving away from discussing the point and on to discussing the person.

As I said early in the thread, I did not visit Café Florian or Harry's Bar, nor did I take a Gondola Ride. But Herself and I really enjoyed Venice. Were we mistaken? Do we now need sympathy?

adventureseeker asked for views; she got mine, among others. She categorised some participants in the discussion as "kinda sad". I don't think that is a good response to honestly expressed views.

Now I'm done with this thread. There are more enjoyable and fruitful things to do than fight with you.

I also agree with adventureseeker on her 3 types of tourists.
I'm a # 1

dave

Some people have no interest in gondola rides, Harry's Bar etc. They prefer the working man's Venice, or the literary Venice, whatever. I agree that it's silly to look down on people for wanting to go on a gondola, but there's nothing wrong with not wanting to go on one, either.

I've been to Venice 5 or 6 times in the past 35 years.

Gondola ride for sure. Just once, though.

The other two -- whatever. Not interesting to me -- never have been, doubt ever will be. But I would never tell anybody else what is a "valuable" travel experience, what is a surefire memory-of-a-lifetime.

I don't fall into any of the categories delineated by adventureseeker, btw.

I mildly disagree with the "three types of people" categories.

I have no problem doing "touristy" stuff (or looking like an American tourist). But I've never taken a gondola ride simply because I've never felt the urge to do so. Either something interests me (touristy or not), or it doesn't (touristy or not).

Yes my husband and I did take Gondola rides..always fabulous.

And yes enjoyed Cafe Florian although it certainly is much more expensive than it used to be.

We always went to Harry's Bar..I still have the pumpkin color ashtray they gave me as a gift. A sentimental place for me and when now in Venice with Italian friends we always go there for a drink.

But I love to just roam around Venice also. There is no "good" way or "bad" way to experience a place as we all have different ideas as to what we enjoy and what our travel budget is and consequently what we feel is worthwhile to us.

One thing that is fun is to have friends visit your own area. One will often end up going places or doing activities that one as a resident of the area doesn't normally do. A reminder that even "tourist traps" for lack of a better word can be enjoyable.

I agree LoveItaly and others-- I live in San Francisco and I had never been to Alcatraz until I was asked to chaperone my son's school fieldtrip. I probably wouldn't do it again, but I'm glad to say I finally have done it!

Padraig, you have totally misinterpreted my remarks. I never said I look down on people who don't do those things. If you actually read my post, you'll see in fact that I said I have never done two of those things myself (in four trips to Venice). There's nothing wrong with you if you don't want to do a gondola ride or go to Harry's or sit and drink a drink in St. Marks at night, and I have NOT said that there is anything wrong with you if you don't want to do them. And I certainly haven't indicated that anyone who doesn't do them because they don't care to is missing anything!

What I DO feel sorry for is the people who don't do those things BECAUSE they think doing so would be touristy. Sorry, if you don't understand why I feel sorry for those who live their lives by doing or not doing what they think they "should" or "should not" be doing. In fact, if you still don't understand the difference, well then, I also feel sorry for you for not understanding the difference!

In other words if you and your wife didn't do those things because you didn't think you'd enjoy them then fine, good for you. But if you avoided doing them BECAUSE you thought it would make you seem like a tourist, then too bad. Get it yet?????

We didn't do any of the list either. When we were there, in late June last year, Venice was so hot and crowded that we got as far away from the piazza as we could. We would probably enjoy Venice better in the off season.

I also couldn't believe all the pigeons on Piazza San Marco. Earlier in the morning, a guide had warned us not to feed the pigeons as it was illegal (for residents) and unhealthy but yet they were selling food in the piazza and people had pigeons sitting on them for photos.

Padraig,

Sorry to have offended you about my "kinda sad" comment. It's just my opinion and observation.

Why would I say that to make myself feel better? Feel better about what? ....Interesting.

I post here to get info and gain knowledge, not to debate. After reading some posts on this subject I was compelled to comment.

I echo Neopatrick's comments. Not because I'm trying to be superior or "win"...it's simply that's what I believe.

Hi bianca, I never went to Alcatraz Island until I a a group of Italians visiting me and of course they want to go so we did. It was a hysterical day, sort of like herding cats, lol.

And walking the GG Bridge, I go years without doing so but if I have people from out of the area and they want to do it we do.

My grandson's when they were younger always wanted to go to Fishermen's Wharf and Pier 39, sigh, so I was a good grandmother and we went, another sigh!

adventureseeker, you really are echoing my sentiments. It's interesting that anyone could be offended by your "three categories" comment. If someone chose option 2 for himself (didn't go because he wasn't interested OR didn't want to pay the price) -- then what's so offensive about that? In fact that's exactly what several including Padraig have said -- they just weren't interested. So fine, who's arguing with that opinion?

Why people take offense with your "sad" comment aimed at those who only refused to go see something because of the "stigma" of it being too touristy (your option #3), I can't imagine -- unless they really did have a desire to go but decided they shouldn't because if they told someone, they'd be chastised for being a (gasp) tourist. And in that case, then yes their reasoning really is "sad" in my opinion too.

Like me, you really haven't offered any offensive remarks to people who don't do things because they aren't interested in doing them. Why do some seem to think both of us are insulting those people or questioning their opinions?

Neo,

I think it all comes down to just being open-minded.

Padraig's tone struck a chord with me. Just like, "I'd never be caught dead doing that and anyone who would get ripped off or buy into it is _________{fill in the blank}". Now if that isn't being superior, what is??? Why not just state the opinion..."It's an overpriced tourist trap". That's all plain and simple.

A poster could get more mileage by writing something not so opinionated....just say it isn't your cuppa tea or it wasn't worth it to you. Back it up with why/why not and that's INFORMATION that would help a traveler.

I took reviewed a dozen posts that P posted on other threads and I found that most were "digs" or "strong opinions". Not surprising. None of which were information driven to assist the OP.
...so let's consider the source. I was playing nice until his comment showed up. It always takes one.

About the "3 categories". Again...just my observation. I find people don't like to be categorized (rightfully so). I took a chance to post it to make my point and got healthy opposition....which is expected.

One last thing...."if a Gondola is just a bloody rowboat, Venice is just an island". ...Kinda sad

One thing I learned here long ago is that when someone starts ranting about how a poster is berating everyone else's opinions, that remark is usually coming from someone who is berating everyone else's opinions.

To me, something is a trap if a) you didn't choose the experience AND b) you can't leave easily at will if you decide the experience is not for you. Example: one is on a bus that stops at an out-of-the-way shop for 3 hours.

None of your three options is such that someone couldn't abandon ship (or abandon gondola as the case may be) if they so wanted. So by the definition I've suggested, none are traps.

Re your options:

1. Might have if the weather were better; it was too cool to sit still.

2. No, it didn't appeal.

3. No, possibly because most times when I get into a small craft I want to have a hand in poling/rowing/paddling it myself. I do regret not taking a speedboat ride on a 'biology tour' of the lagoon that I'd heard about.

Neo, You hit the nail on the head!

Thank you all for your posts....much appreciated.

Caffe Florian on Piazza San Marco is not a tourist trap. It is living history like Cafe Procope in Paris or The Pantheon in Roma. Please go if you wish and just soak in the history and life of the place, not to mention 'superbo' coffee and delicious cakes that blow your mind. Look at the pigeons, look at the beautiful people. You don't get that in Rao's in Spanish Harlem in the Big Apple. Don't let anyone diisuade you from a Bellini in Cipriani (it rhymes, Ha! Ha!). Then just try Bisol Prosecco di Valdobiaddene on its own in a flute at 8 degrees Celsius. I love it! Enjoy! {
By Dr. Michael Lim The Travelling Gourmet, a renowned Travel, Food & Wine Writer/Editor in Asia.

one thing I have learned is that true Venetians are an endangered species...

Read "Francesco's Venice" or "City of Falling Angels" if you are interested in learning more about this vanishing breed.

Anyway, seems like Venice of today is unavoidably about tourists and tourism so if you hate that kind of thing you'll find lots to bug you there.

I spent my money on the gondola, strolled by the Florian, and went to Cipriani's for a bellini and lunch and enjoyed watching the very wealthy do their thing...not to mention catch some respite from the throngs...about the same price as a few drinks at any other "tourist" spot.

We were in Venice in May - amazing weather, crowded but manageable, gondola ride at sunset was very relaxing and pretty and did show another side of the city not visible from the streets. Probably will do it again if I ever get back! Actually, would repeat just about everything again. Once is not enough!

A few years ago while in Venice, we had dinner at a small cafe near our hotel (less expensive), then went to San Marco square for a cappucino. We walked around until we found one with the kind of music we enjoy. (The pigeons are all gone at night.) We sat and had our very expensive cappucino while enjoying the music. We considered the high cost as paying for our entertainment. We left at midnight as the bells were tolling in the cathedral and is was very moving. We are leaving for Italy in two weeks and I have a repeat of that evening on our itinerary for Venice.

pngmrtino, excellent point. In fact, I feel that way even in my own city. Some things are simply worth much more than they seem to be ... we can't measure everything by its actual financial value (sounds like that dreadful Mastercard ad, but you know what I mean!)

1. I've had coffee at both Florian and Quadri and I think those are the most expensive ways to experience St. Mark's Square. Eating ice-cream (bought at a nearby ice-cream parlor) or feeding the pigeons (with tons of inexpensive and quality corn bought at home) is way more rewarding.

2. I've walked several times by Harry's Bar and just once took a look at it. I know that I've haven't missed out Venice by not having anything there.

3. I've never done it, but I guess it would be nice doing it at least once.

A couple of years ago my husband and I were in Venice. I could not wait for a gondola ride. However, my husband has Alzheimer's. He just flatly refused to get in the boat--just would not do it.

A year later we are in Vegas and in the Venetian Hotel, all of a sudden my husband sees the "fake" gondolas and wants to go-he practically jumped in the darn boat.

So, the moral of the story--I sooo enjoyed that tacky--touristy gondola ride with my hubby. Not in Venice--but Vegas. Go figure. But I loved it.

Does anyone know what time the music plays in Piazza San Marco?

Does it play all night until midnight when the bells toll?

I just wish that the authorities in Venice would take a leaf out of Red Ken's book.
You can now be fined £500 around $1000
for feeding pigeons in Trafalgar Square.
I have been to Venice several times.
I have done 1, just for the experience.
2. I wouldn't bother.
3. I have had one gondola ride, again just because everyone should do it just once.

adventureseeker, the music goes on considerably after midnight, but I'm not sure until what hour.

1. Café Florian. Yes, if you´re on your honeymoon or celebrating a birthday/anniversary. If you´re not, or are on a budget, then skip Florian and go to the outdoor café/bar around the corner. (located near the water, look for the two giant pillars).

2. Harry´s Bar is designed as a place to relax. It´s NOT a party bar. It is a haven, a place to get away from the heat (cold),crowds, noise, a place where you can sit and review your day or plan the rest of it. I´ve spent some very relaxing moments there. But remember: no beer, no wine by the glass, mostly
mixed drinks. And you don´t HAVE to order a Bellini (they mix them by the gallon). Try a Doge´s Cup.
They also have probably the best Lemon Meringue Pie and Chocolate cake to be found on this planet.
Dress code: No Shorts!!
P.S. Ask to see a copy of the Harry´s Bar Cookbook and if you do decide to buy one ask them to autograph it for you.

3.Gondola Ride - Would you go to Disneyland and not go on any of the rides? It IS what tourist do but it´s also romantic and the photo-ops are great. I really believe that the large majority of those who have gone on the Gondola ride were glad they did and have never regretted it. DOGANA, a gondola operation located just across from Harry´s Bar, is reputable and you can also purchase a bottle of chilled Proseco from them to take along on the ride.
P.S. Peggy Guggenheim lived in Venice in a Palazzo situated along the Grand Canal. She had a motor launch and her own private gondola.
She said once in an interview that if she was in a hurry to get somewhere she rode in her motor launch, but if she was not in a hurry she preferred the gondola.

4. Check out the Via Garibaldi and the Old Ghetto. Explore a few of the quiet and secluded "Campo" (square), some with outdoor restaurants and cafés.

Enjoy Venice, if you give it half a chance you will find it to be one of the most fascinating cities in the world.

If you honestly see Cafe Florian as some tourist trap then you may feel the same way about San Marco at night. Hopefully you won't.

People FLOCK to places for a reason, usually a good one.
Just because it is expensive doesn;t mean the overall experience isn't worth it.

yes, to Florian and San Marco..at night as well as early in the morning feeding the pigeons.

Yes, certainly to a gondola ride. Would you go to Paris and not go up the "tourist trap" Eiffel Tower?

Dukey asked: "Would you go to Paris and not go up the "tourist trap" Eiffel Tower?"

Yes. Been there, done that.

No Florian's, no Harry's Bar and no gondola ride. Spectacular view of the Grand Canal from the roof of our hotel, Bauer. Hopping off and on the vaparetto, viewing the Canal from water level and wandering the Venetian neighborhoods was wonderful fun and off-beat.

Didn't do any of them, but will when I have more time. I was too busy having fun riding on the vaporettos with my gelato.

By definition, once we get off a plane in a foreign country for pleasure, we're all tourists. And anywhere you go for sightseeing or dining is by definition a tourist trap, because they've held the attention of you as a tourist, and by holding your attention, you have been trapped, albeit temporarily.

So, all the hooha about not wanting to look, be, or act like a tourist is silly. I'm a tourist, and I enjoy it.

Says the American in blue jeans and white sneakers with a camera in her pocket.

Gondola ride - yes. Our 40th wedding anniversary and our first time back to Venice in several years so it was a must do. Was it worth the cost? Well it was expensive but we may never be back and it made DW happy and so yes it was worth every Euro (and it took a whole bunch of them).

Cafe Florian: no. But I did stand around and listened to the music. That was nice and didn't cost a thing. I would say if you did have a drink/gelato it's worth it because you have a chance to sit, see the sights, be seen and be entertained. You'd get more for the money than Harry's Bar.

Harry's Bar: yes, just to say I'd been there. Overpriced, over-hyped and too crowded. Thought about taking my drink glass out with me, but chickened out. Worth it, no.

Gondola: Yes and I recommend it. Since I was visiting all by myself I was lucky enough to share a ride with a couple from the US. Why go to Venice if you don't want to see the sights from inside a gondola? You've already spent a bundle getting there, what's another $80 or $100?

Yes, no and yes. We were hesitant about doing the gondola ride but were glad we did it. It was an unique experience and well worth it.

No, No, No. I am a romantic & although I could have gone to any of these on my trip, I chose to delay because I was alone. I want to experience them with my SO. And it just so happens that my SO has never been to Venice, so it will be especially romantic to eventually tour it with him.

Buon giorno...

Thank you all for your comments. I am the OP and here's the outcome:

1) Caffe' Florian: we planned to do it, but found ourselves at St. Mark's in the early morning at sunrise or late in the evening. We ended up on the other side of the square each night enjoying the battling orchestras at the 2 caffe's there. We didn't sit, but just stood and swayed to the music.

2) Harry's Bar: nope.

3) Gondola ride: we planned on doing this since it was our first trip to Venice/10yr anniversary, HOWEVER when we arrived in Venice...there were gondolas everywhere filled with people and it didn't look very charming/special. It wasn't until our last night there at 11pm that we took our ride. It was perfecto and ultra-romantic. The water was like glass and our gondolier took us down the back canals. When we came upon the Grand Canal, we were literally the only craft on the water. I can't imagine it any other way nor more romantic.

Yes we did the gondola ride in November to add to the celebration. It was expensive but worth it, and we enjoyed it very much.

By the time you have walked to Cafe Florian you will need a rest. It's a perfect place. The outside table cost 5 euro a person plus your drink. It's well worth it cause don't even think anyplace else will let you sit down. The gondola ride is so much a part of Venice that it is worth it. They are big.... may want to double up with another couple.

Adventureseeker,

So glad to hear your trip was a success and that you enjoyed some of the "tourist traps" that make Venice so special - thanks for getting back to us.

g.

Did all 3 and glad we did. It is Venice and all three of these acitivites is partially what Venice is all about. If you do not do them that is your business.

bookmarking

I absolutely agree with NeoPatrick, would you expect tourists to not go to Disneyland etc, just because they want to do as the locals do? I can't imagine coming home from Venice and not having done at least some of those things. In Paris we weren't sure if we wanted to bother going to the top of the Eiffel Tower in case it was just a tourist trap, but boy, am I glad I did, the view was amazing and I would have been sorry to not have that memory. We will be in Venice in May and I am looking forward to a gondola trip on the smaller canals!

YES to all three----yes they are tourist traps, but you are a tourist.

I did all three on my first trip to Venice many years ago (skipped on return trips), but recall fondly my memories of walking into Harry's and ordering a Bellini (yes it was over priced, but it was worth every penny). I can still picture the Gondolier singing as we floated down the serene canals.....and CAFE FLORIAN----again, yes, overpriced, but and experiecne I will tresure for the rest of my life.

SPENT the money and ENJOY every single second!!!!!!

We did not have time for Cafe Florian, but did listen to the music for a couple of minutes. If the weather had been nicer and we had the time we would have had a drink.
We did have a drink in Harry's Bar. 23 euros for a bellini and prosecco, way over priced. They got upset when we had a couple next to us take our picture.
Gondola ride was great. We went down the small canals late in the afternoon. Very quiet and romantic. Worth the 120 euors, at least once.

Hmm, I'm sitting here looking at a picture of 5 of us in Harry's Bar holding our Bellini's. The picture was taken very happily by the bartender. He took multiple shots from 3 different cameras. And this was May and they were slightly busy at the time. Would I go here again? No. But I certainly have my memories and this great picture to look at.
dave

3) Gondola Ride - Yes, I did, and would like to again. It was so peaceful, and the beauty of Venice is indescribable.

1) cafe florian - YES! we went there our first day in Venice on our Honeymoon and had great (expensive!) sandwiches, wine and music. it was an amazing first "view" of Venice. we still talk about it!

2) harry's bar - maybe. we went. I got a Bellini. it was ok. it was expensive. it was raining outside so we couldn't walk around. if you miss it, no big deal, in my opinion.

3) gondola ride - YES! we went to a canal on a square away from the touristy spots. the price was about 30 euro less. we went at night and it was a beautiful serene once in a lifetime experience. you just can't go to Venice and not go in a gondola, in my opnion.

definitely go up the bell tower in St. Mark's Square - the view was amazing!

I'm glad you had a good time there!


I haven't been to venice, but if I do go, i'll definately will ride a gondola. It's just a venice thing to do. Cafe Florian... it sounds interesting, might peek in and check it out. The bar i would rather skip. Not into drinking, especially if i'm by myself.

I'm ok with doing touristy things, I think the problem is if you just do those things, and don't seek out more "authentic" (which is debatable, so it's in quotations) experiences with it. Least that's my theory. Haven't had a chance to put it in practice yet.

1) Didn't do
2) Didn't do
3) Did do gondola ride - but with a large group so it was significantly cheaper per person. Glad I did it - it was a lovely experience but not one I feel any need to repeat.

1) No.

2) No.

3) Been to Venice three times, gone on a gondola ride three times. Each visit was with a different travel companion. But the next time I go to Venice, I will take a gondola ride again. It's more than just a ride on an unusual boat (in which case it might not be worth the cost). If you head to the little back canals, you will see parts of Venice you cannot see on foot. I find nearly every inch of Venice fascinating.

I have a question Adventure Seeker, what did you wind up doing, and what was your opinion?

It's a funny thing, reading this thread. Some people can be "travel snobs" and look down their noses at you for doing something "touristy", and others would question you if you went to Venice and DIDN'T do those same things. I guess really people just need to decide for themselves. I have only been to Venice once and did none of those things and still had a great time, but I am going back in May and DO plan on doing #2 and #3. This will be my thirteenth trip to Europe and I have been on and off the beaten path many times before. Some of my absolute favorite experiences were SO touristy (a night time boat ride down the Seine), but there were other touristy things I felt were such a ripoff (like Madame Tussaud's in London). So, to each his own... I say, each person needs to trust his/her gut as to whether or not they will like it, then go for it!!! I personally love hearing about ALL travel experiences!

Adventureseeker-Oops, SORRY! I somehow missed your post a month ago when I was going through the thread! Nevermind!

Thanks to all for all of the wonderful opinions. We will be going to Venice in May and I, for one, will definitely do all three - Cafe Florian, Harry's Bar and a Gondola Ride. I am taking my mother for her 80th birthday and and I believe this will be her first and last trip to Venice. It's only money and I think these "expensive" experiences will create lasting memories for both of us.

We didn't do any of these things and we absolutely adored Venice; I think I was smiling the whole time I was there. It was December, but it was dry and sunny and around 50 - perfect! Take the vaporetto along the length of the Grand Canal - loved it! Walk alot and enjoy little streets and alleyways. You will find magnificent buildings, delicious food and magical memories everywhere. It was a dream come true for me.

bookmarking

I would never enter a bar that I could not see into. So no to Harry’s. Tried the bar Arancina in Calle Foscari, Dorsoduro, many times, and it was fun.
Florians. It was mid-winter, so Florian had no tables in the Piazza. We would have taken coffee at Quadri’s, except that the Piazza was under water. But we have a photo of us sitting at a Quadri table in our rubber boots.
Gondola ride – at 80 Euro for 40 minutes – too costly, too like a procession. But we used the traghettos all the time, at 50 cents to cross the Grand Canal they are good value.

Cafe Florian: We did it, sat outside on the square. Not worth it. The drinks weren't good. The cost was HIGH. Better to walk by, slowly, listen, move on and get a drink elsewhere.

Gondola ride, yes, worth it. Loved it. A bit costly, but that's the very thing I visualize when I think of Venice.

Harry's Bar, no. Didn't appeal to us.

I have done all 3 and would recommend them.

I love bellinis and knew they were created at Harry's Bar in Venice. The first time I went to Italy I didn't make it to Harry's in Venice but went to the one in Florence; they were out of fresh peach nectar so I didn't get my Bellini. I had its strawberry cousin the Rossini instead. I knew when I returned to Venice I wanted to get a Bellini from the creator, even though it would be expensive. It was, but I enjoyed the experience of sitting in Harry's, once frequented by Hemingway, and sloooowly sipping my drink.

I enjoyed the Cafe Florian as well. It was rather chilly, so I had hot drinks which were quite good. It is a unique experience to sit comfortably in Piazza San Marco and listen to the orchestra while drinking your beverage of choice. I was not rushed but allowed to take my time.

I have done a gondola ride each time I have gone to Venice and wouldn't miss it. The gondola ride provides a different perspective of Venice since you are in a gondola, in the canals and smaller rios very close to the old buildings and the water. The sights, sounds and feel of the ride evokes images of the days when Venice truly was La Serenissima.

All 3 of these experiences are, in my opinion, just that--experiences. You might get a cheaper Bellini somewhere else, or a slightly better drink at a different cafe, or see Venice from a waterbus for significantly less. However, the enjoyment of the experience itself is worth more than the monetary value of the good or service that you are receiving.