I’ve been lucky enough to visit Venice four times—in 2015, 2016, 2022, and 2023—and it continues to hold a special place in my heart. Italy is my favorite country (I’m a proud Italian descendant!), and while I adore many places there, Venice and Rome are my top two.
In this post, I’m sharing practical tips and reflections from my visits to Venice over the years—what’s changed, what to avoid, and what’s still magical.
💔 What Changed Since the Pandemic
My first visits (2015–2016) were full of charm: artisan Murano shops lined the streets, especially near the Santa Lucia train station and the first alleyways after crossing the bridge. It was colorful, local, and full of authentic character.
But when I returned in 2022 and 2023, I noticed a big shift. Many traditional shops were gone, replaced with generic souvenir stores, Asian imports, and chocolate shops. Still pretty—but less Venetian. Even so, the city’s magic is very much alive.
🛏️ Where I Stay (And Why Not in Venice Proper)
I personally prefer not to stay in Venice itself. Why?
- Tide + Old Infrastructure: Flooding happens, and walking through salty water isn’t exactly fun. Plus, many hotels are old and expensive for what they offer.
- Evenings in Venice: The city gets very quiet after dark. Most of the life concentrates around St. Mark’s Square, and it feels a bit deserted elsewhere.
- Comfort + Cost: I stay in Mestre or Marghera, just outside Venice. It’s modern, quiet, and close. My favorite hotel there is a stylish Four Points by Sheraton with great AC (a rarity in Europe!), comfy beds, and a great breakfast, at a much better price point.
From Marghera or Mestre, I take the bus or drive and park near the train station. Parking in 2023 cost around €20–30/day in the summer. Totally worth it for the convenience!
🛶 My Island Route Trick: Start With Burano
Most people go: Venice → Murano → Burano.
But I recommend the opposite:
🚤 Start with Burano → then Murano → end in Venice.
By starting early in Burano (around 9 a.m.), you avoid the tourist rush that hits the island around noon. When you’re heading back to Murano, you’ll see the crowd heading to Burano. This saves time and lets you enjoy each place more peacefully.
🎨 Burano Highlights
- Colorful houses, perfect for photos.
- Handmade lace shops (beautiful but not cheap!).
- Be wary of mass-produced items. Authentic handmade pieces are delicate and expensive, mostly not machine washable.
💡 Murano Must-See: Palazzo Barovier&Toso
Murano is all about glass, and if there’s one stop you can’t miss, it’s Palazzo Barovier&Toso.
From the outside, it may look unassuming, but step inside and your jaw will drop. Their chandeliers and Murano creations are pure art. They have two locations on opposite sides of the same small bridge—one more traditional, the other a multi-floor showroom with breathtaking displays in every room.
These are not budget pieces—think fine art, not souvenirs. But the experience alone is unforgettable. And many of the shops in Murano (including this one) offer international shipping, so you don’t have to carry a glass sculpture on your flight home.
🔍 Tip: If you’re looking for authentic Murano glass, check the base of the piece. True originals are often signed by the artist.
🌊 Gondola Rides & Exploring Venice
If you want a gondola ride, go near St. Mark’s Square. There are two types:
- Private: ~€100–€150 depending on the season.
- Shared: much cheaper (around €20 per person).
🗣️ Not all gondoliers sing—so if that matters to you, ask before you board!
🛍️ Shopping in Venice
Prices vary a lot. For example, I saw the same item in one shop for €450 and in another for €150. Always compare!
Tip: the shops near the train station and major landmarks tend to be more expensive. Wander through side streets and smaller alleys for better deals.
🍦 Bonus: Where to End the Day
I love returning to Marghera in the evening. There’s a brand-new mall nearby with great shops (including a very complete ZARA, a favorite of mine), cute restaurants, and gelaterias that stay open late. It’s the perfect way to wind down after a long day exploring.
