Venice (or “Venezia” in Italian), Italy is a unique European destination marked by its famous gondolas. While most of Italy is a peninsula, Venice is located in the northeastern region of the country, a two hour drive from Slovenia. Peak season for visiting Venice is from June through August, with September through November being the shoulder season. If all you know about Venice is its canals, it is time to get further acquainted with “The Floating City.”
While Venice makes us all think about water, air is the element of choice for traveling to the city. Venice Marco Polo Airport / Aeroporto di Venezia-Tessera (VCE / LIPZ) is the closest airport to the city, only 5 miles (8 kilometers) north. In-flight catering is available for delivery at the airport with 48 hour notice. Once you arrive in Venice, you will find the best way to explore the city is simply by walking around or taking a “vaporetto” (water bus). Water taxis and gondolas are also available, but they are expensive. Be ready to pay over €60 EUR (about $70 USD) for a ride, and be sure to know the rate before boarding.
If you are traveling to Venice during February, be sure to pack your masquerade attire, since Carnevale will be in full swing and you will see why the “City of Masks” is an appropriate nickname. The Voga Longa is an annual 30 kilometer row that takes places in May. Both Carnevale and Voga Longa are scheduled in accordance with Easter, so be sure to check dates before you arrive. The first Sunday in September you will be greeted by the Regata Storica, in which the Grand Canal takes center stage as an 8 kilometer race course.
Venice is full of beautiful architecture, so sightseeing is the activity of choice for a first-time visitor. When you are done taking in the sights and sounds of the Grand Canal, it is time to start a more in-depth look at Venice. Scuola Grande Di San Rocco, Palazzo Ducale and Ca’Rezzonico are just a few of the popular landmarks to consider visiting during your time in Venice. There are also countless religious sites and museums to admire.
When it comes to dining in Venice, you will find no shortage of fish or pasta. The city is also home to six restaurants on the highly-coveted Michelin Guide. Trattoria alla Madonna and Anice Stellato have both made the list with a “Bib Gourmand” rating. One Michelin star has been awarded to Quadri, Il Ridotto, Met, Osteria da Fiore and Venissa. Antica Osteria Cera is at the top of the list with two Michelin stars, but it is 10.5 miles (17 kilometers) southwest from Venice.
Venice has a lot to offer, and that doesn’t stop when it comes to hotels. However, even the most economical hotels triple their rates during peak season. Hotel Ai Reali, Hotel Canal Grande, Hotel Moresco and Hotel Le Isole are all highly-rated hotels at a mid-tier price point. The quaintness of Venice makes it perfect for those who prefer staying at a bed-and-breakfast. Il Giardino di Giulia, Casa del Mercante Veneziano (translates to “The Merchant of Venice’s House”) and B&B Venezia are just a few of the many options available. Be sure to look at photos of the rooms on offer to find one that matches your style; some are decorated with old-world charm and others are sleek and contemporary.
Questions?
If you have any questions about in-flight catering in Venice, contact weborders@airculinaire.com.