leSenator

I'm spending the first 2 weeks of October in Italy, with 3 nights in Venice. We are staying at Le Boulevard Hotel, which I now understand is in Lido. How difficult is it to move from Lido to Venice proper or should I make changes???

Grasshopper

I'll be the dissenting voice here, but I find the Lido a refreshing change from the crowds and souvenier stands and the dancing Micky and Minnies of Venice proper. It's very easy to go back and forth on the valparetto.

Weadles

We stayed on the Lido a few years ago in the summertime, and enjoyed escaping the crowds of Venice and late afternoons on the beach. The vaporetto was easy enough- maybe 15 minutes from the main stop to St. Mark's Square, but if I were to return to the area, I'd stay in Venice proper. Why? There's a lot to be said for being in the midst of the action, and being able to go back and forth to your hotel at whim, without waiting for a taxi. Also in October, the pleasures of the Lido aren't as important as they might be in the summer.

Good luck with your plans!

mclaurie

With just 3 nights in Venice, and in October, I think you'd have a better feel for Venice by staying IN Venice proper. Lido has cars so it's less unusual than Venice.

It's not difficult to get back and forth, but it just doesn't feel the same. There are plenty of areas away from the touristy scene that Grasshopper describes. In fact, I think unless you stay in Venice proper, you're more apt to see the most commercial parts of Venice instead of being able to explore that side canals and "back alleys." If you can switch w/o much hassle or loss of money, I would.

LoveItaly

I agree with staying in Venice proper, assuming you can cancel your Lido hotel.

But if you can't, be assured you will still have a beautiful visit.

I understand Grasshopper's vote for the Lido as the crowds in Venice can get overwhelming. But if you walk and walk, away from San Marco you can find some peace and quiet. And BTW, getting lost in Venice is truly part of the fun.

Good luck with your travel plans.

nytraveler

The Lido is primarily a beach resort - so as you can imagine there is little to do in October. If your purpose is to see Venice why in the world stay somewhere else? Stay in the center and absorb what Venice is really like (for better or worse that does include crowds - as does any sizeable city).

ira

Hi Sen,

I also suggest staying in town.

Grasshopper

Like I said, I'm the dissenting voice. There are lots of cute little neighborhood areas on Lido too. It's not all big hotels on the beach.