Visiting Venice, Italy | TH Travel Designs

We came……we conquered….we have the wine to prove it!

Whew, what an amazing trip! After a year of planning and working with our partners to make sure every detail was covered, we finally were able to pack our bags and hit the runway to Italy ~ after a 4 1/2 hour delay (thanks, United!)

I cannot say enough about how wonderful this group was. I couldn’t imagine a more laid-back and fun group to introduce Italy to and I am so grateful. We will have these memories together for a lifetime!

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The Traveling Homebodies Take on Venice, Italy

This trip was designed for first timers to Italy where I strategically planned the “hot” spots that are the must sees of Italy as well as some unique surprises to keep them wanting to come back. Our first stop was Venice and it was the perfect introduction. Our private boat taxi dropped us off at the door of our hotel so the fun could begin. I highly recommend to anyone visiting Venice to invest in a private water taxi. It can be exhausting to drag your luggage across bridges and over the cobblestoned roads to get to your hotel if you take the public water boat and who wants to start your vacation off like that, amiright? Plus, very difficult with an aperol in hand. #priorities

Our hotel was in a great location right off the main canal and easily accessible to all the spots we were going to visit. After unpacking, we headed right across the bridge for pizza, of course, and to walk around and take in the city. We enjoyed a leisurely afternoon before going back to the hotel to get ready for what would be one of the highlights of our trip. We had a guide walk us through the city and show us some of the local spots on the way to our new friend , Chynthia’s home , where she treated us with a special Venetian seasonal meal. MY OH MY! This night was special and not just because of the food. We made new friends and learned all about the food, culture and life in Venice with a private boat ride back to the hotel through dreamy Venice at night.

The next day started with a private guided walking tour and discovered the main highlights of Venice. We visited St Mark’s square and was able to enter Doge’s Palace and St Mark’s Basilica. . It was really neat to walk through the Bridge of Sighs where the prisoners walked from Doge’s Palace to their prison sentence. Our guide, Francesca, was so lovely and super smart about all things Venice. She even pointed us to just the right local spot for lunch, Rossopomodoro! We walked some more, visited Rialto Bridge, and discovered the cutest little alleyways. That evening we rode the must do gondola ride, dinner and then in my opinion had the perfect ending with wine on the rooftop bar of our hotel. Venice, the floating city, was great way to start our trip. Next stop, Florence!

If Venice is on your radar and you are the kind of traveler who likes to see more unique things, check out our list below:

Unique Things To Do In Venice Italy

Rialto Market:

Embark on a solo journey to the Rialto Market, one of the oldest markets in Venice. Travel slowly through the stalls, savoring the fresh produce, seafood, and local products. It's an immersive way to experience the vibrant local culture.

Cicchetti Tasting:

Try cicchetti, Venetian tapas-like dishes, at local bacari (wine bars) at your own comfortable pace. It's a great way for solo travelers on a trip to Italy to sample a variety of traditional Venetian flavors.*

Murano and Burano Islands:

Take a leisurely boat trip to the nearby islands of Murano and Burano, exploring the glass-blowing factories and colorful houses at your own speed. Enjoy the Amalfi Coast's scenic beauty during your connecting flights between islands.

Secret Itineraries Tour at Doge's Palace:

Explore the hidden and off-limits areas of Doge's Palace by taking the Secret Itineraries Tour. It provides insight into the political history of Venice, allowing you to absorb the information comfortably.

Libreria Acqua Alta:

Visit Libreria Acqua Alta, a unique bookstore where books are stored in gondolas, bathtubs, and other unconventional containers to prevent flooding. It's an offbeat experience perfect for solo travelers seeking unique spots.

Peggy Guggenheim Collection:

Solo travelers can enjoy the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, showcasing modern art in an intimate setting. The collection includes works by Picasso, Pollock, and Dalí, providing a contemplative experience during your trip to Italy.

San Giorgio Maggiore Bell Tower:

Climb the bell tower of San Giorgio Maggiore for panoramic views of Venice. Solo travelers can do this at their own pace, enjoying the breathtaking views without rushing.

Venetian Mask Making:

Take a workshop to learn about the art of Venetian mask making, creating your own traditional mask as a unique souvenir. It's a creative and personalized experience for those traveling solo.

Venice Biennale:

If you visit during the Venice Biennale (art exhibition held every two years), explore contemporary art installations from around the world at a comfortable and unhurried pace.

St. Mark's Basilica at Night:

Experience the beauty of St. Mark's Basilica at night when it's illuminated. Solo travelers can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and stunning sights at a leisurely pace.

Ghetto di Venezia:

Visit the historic Jewish Ghetto, the first ghetto in the world. Explore its museums and synagogues, learning about the history of the Jewish community in Venice comfortably and without any rush. Don't forget to wear comfortable shoes for your explorations!