Side trip to Venice?
 

I am going with 3 other people to Italy on a tour in June. The tour does not go to Venice, but we do spend 1 and a half days in Florence. We are considering taking a day trip to Venice. We have researched the train trip and it is a 3 hour trip and costs about $28 each way per person. <BR>Would it be easier/better to rent a car ? <BR>What are the must see's in Venice that we can do in that one day? <BR>Thanks for your help. <BR>

Susan - <BR> <BR>I'm sure other Fodorites would agree with me--Venice is soooo much more than a side trip! There is enough to keep you busy for a week or two. Having said that, a side trip is better than no trip at all. My advice is to plan ahead of time what you absolutely want to see and set a schedule. I know, I know, schedule and Venice don't belong in the same sentence! Venice is one of the best places just to wander through slowly, but with limited time you just don't have that luxury. Maybe the next time you go. And once you visit there, I would wager that you'll go back again. <BR>It is a magical place. I absolutely loved Murano. There are a few glass factories there and an assortment of shops to buy glassware. I would also suggest a gondola ride. I hope you have a wonderful time in Italy, even if you choose to stay in Florence. That wouldn't be a bad choice either!

Susan - my advice would be to stick with the train for a day trip from Florence. You won't have to deal with parking or traffic. When you get out of the train station (Sta. Lucia) in Venice, take the #1 or #82 vaporetto (water bus) to San Marco, and walk into the Piazza. If the line isn't too long, take the elevator to the top of the Campanille (bell tower) for an outstanding view of Venice. Walk over to the cathedral to see the beautiful mosaics (inside and out), then (if open) go into the Orologio (clock tower) to see the "Moors" - 2 bronze statues who ring a large bronze bell. Now walk under the orologio and stroll through the streets of Venice at your leisure - this is truly one of the great joys of traveling! As you're walking around, start planning for your return trip to Venice!!

I too, am considering the drive into Venice. <BR> <BR>I read the post about driving in Italy bu what about driving on the main highway or interstate. Is it that much different that the States? What about parking once I get to Venice?

I would take the train even with the unscheduled delays. Car parking is very expensive even at the Piazzale Roma garage plus they are not responsible for any theft. There are cheaper parking lots in San Guliano and Fusina in Mestre, but still not worth it considering you have to pay freeway tolls. Rick

You say that you only have a day and half in Florence (which really isn't nearly enough time for that city!). Thus, if you go to Venice for a day (which will actually be less since you have 6 hours on the train), it means you'll really be spending about a half day, more or less, in each city. As a result, in my opinion, you're really not going to see very much in either city. It doesn't make sense to me! Save Venice for another trip!

I agree with Howard. Don't go. Enjoy the town you are in. YOU CAN'T DO IT ALL!

Another vote for saving Venice for a future trip. There's too much to see in Florence for only 1 1/2 days, and much too much to see in Venice on a day trip. <BR>If your're going during July or August I would advise against Venice, period, It's a wonderful place, but not during those months. If you go, I recommend the train. <BR>

There is a small problem that you may not be aware of. You cannot actually drive into Venice. You must park on the mainland. We did so at Mestre. Then you will need to into the city by Boat - and thgis is about a 40 minute trip itself. <BR> <BR>Even if you see Venice for half a day...you will never ever forget it. But if you do select it as a day trip...and it rains that day... <BR> <BR>It is possible to do it as a day trip...the train takes you into Venice but a car doesnt. And remember this do you want to have to drive back to Florence afterwards...Take the train. <BR>

Well, actually, you can drive into Venice - but not too far! You can drive over the causeway from Mestre to Piazzale Roma, where (as a previous poster noted) there's a large garage, which isn't responsible for theft/damage to your car, and which will charge lots of lire to park. Take the train!