1. Visit the Markets
Perhaps the most famous market in Venice is the Rialto market. It is a great way to see how local Venetians tock their kitchens and even local restaurant owners purchase food. The market is known for fish but I went to the fruit and vegetable section for some fresh strawberries, peaches and celery. It also features nice views of the Rialto Bridge.2. Go for a Gondola Ride
Yes, taking a gondola ride might seem cliché but it is one of the most peaceful ways to experience Venice. If you want to learn about the various neighborhoods beforehand there are many free amazing online guides. As you glide through serene waters, while serenaded by your gondolier, against the stunning backdrop of Baroque buildings is an experience you won’t soon forget. Also, gondola rides are cheaper during the day if you want to save some cash.
3. Take a Wine Tour
I chose to do my first ever wine tour in Venice and it was so much fun! Our host was personable and took us to really small hole in the wall restaurants. I learned a lot about the different local wines, culture and what food to pair with the wines. It was a great opportunity to make friends with other travelers as well.4. Explore Local Street Art
The terrific, fun street art in Venice is worth exploring. The pieces are always changing and much of it is very good. The art is from the heart of local hearts The street art adds to the liveliness of this exciting and beautiful city.
5. Explore Venice from a Boat
The most relaxing way to see Venice is from a boat. The larger Vaporetto boats are a few dollars, if you want to spend a little more you can take a motorboat tour of Venice throughout the nooks and crannies of the city, while learning about some intimate and interesting facts about this beautiful city. 6. Get Lost and Wander the Streets
There is no better way to explore Venice than by wandering the streets, crossing over bridge after bridge. It’s a great way to escape the crowds. This is how you will stumble across beautiful squares, shops and places that only the locals eat. There are many places to just relax and people watch.7. Visit the Many Cathedrals
Venice has many beautiful cathedrals, St. Mark’s Basilica might have a bit of a line but if you register online you can get in for free. The massive church is breathtaking inside. I also visited Basilica of San Giorgio Maggiore, which is on it’s own island. It was filled with amazing art for an upcoming exhibition. 8. Go Shopping for Local Souvenirs
Venice is filled with tons of souvenir shops, you could get some local cheeses, wine or hand painted masks. You can get a good deal on clothing and lace in Venice than the rest of Italy. If you happen on something that strikes you, consider it twice on the spot (not back at your hotel), and then buy it. In this confusing web of alleys, you may never find that shop again.
9. Climb the Bell tower for Astounding Views
For a view that overlooks all of Venice, buy a ticket for the short elevator ride to the top of the San Giorgio Maggiore Bell Tower. The views are fantastic, and you get an up-close-and-personal look at the big bells that you’ll hear ringing out the time all over the city. If you want to avoid hurting your ears, I’d advise making the trip to the top of the tower at something other than the hour mark.10. Seek out the Tastiest Food
Italian cuisine is some of the most yummy food on the planet. And Venice, does not disappoint. Venice, like every region of Italy, is known for its traditional food specialities. Do not order pizza in Venice, reason being is that traditional Italian pizza is cooked in a wood burning oven which they do not have in Venice. Obviously due to Venice’s location on the ocean, there is a large abundance of tasty fish dishes, simply seasoned with olive oil, vinegar, garlic, parsley, and herbs.