Italy Recap: Venice (Part 3 of 3)

Grand Canal

Grand Canal

Rialto Bridge

Rialto Bridge

San Marco

San Marco

Rooftops of Venice

Rooftops of Venice

Palace once home to Cassanova (now a museum)

Palace once home to Cassanova (now a museum)

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Gondola ride with my love

Gondola ride with my love

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Home of Marco Polo for whom we can thank for importing pasta (yes, importing originally)

Home of Marco Polo for whom we can thank for importing pasta (yes, importing originally)

Glass blowing demonstration at one of the many studios in Murano

Glass blowing demonstration at one of the many studios in Murano

Murano

Murano

Burano

Burano

VENICE

*all photos are my own*

As you know I have been sharing a recap of our Italian vacation. If you missed it you can read about our time in Rome here and the Amalfi Coast here. Our last morning in Capri was spent having a leisurely breakfast at our hotel and then we were off to the ferry dock. Of course we stopped by our little spot for a couple of limoncello spritz’s while waiting for the boat. It’s about an hour’s ride to Naples from Capri. In Naples once again, we took an Uber to the airport where we hopped on a quick flight to Venice. I booked Easy Jet and the flight is exactly one hour gate to gate!

Upon our arrival to the Venice Marco Polo Airpot, we took a taxi to the Venice drop off point…no cars permitted. We hopped on a water taxi and got off at the Rialto. Our hotel was only a short walk as it was situated perfectly between the Rialto Bridge and San Marco. You can read more about our hotel, the Splendid, here. We thought it was the perfect location and would definitely stay again!

Venice is magical. We were in awe of it’s beauty and history. While there are amazing galleries and cathedrals (189 cathedrals I believe), our favorite thing was just wandering the narrow streets and getting lost enjoying the days. There was just so much to take in and we were in awe of all it’s charm! Of course we also took a gondola ride…it’s a must! We had the best meal of the trip in Venice…and they were all good so that says alot! It was at Ristorante Centrale Venice near San Marco. Our server was Joel. If you go, ask for him and let him bring you whatever he wants…including wine…and even grappa. You won’t be sorry…or care about the bill!!! Just kidding…it wasn’t even that pricey! We went in intending to just have a couple of drinks as Pete had noticed it the previous day. Very busy, we were certain we wouldn't get a table but Joel made a spot for us and we spent the entire evening there.

We spent a day in Murano & Burano. Both very doable in the same day. Murano is quiet and sleepy and a must see. Of course we purchased some glasses and a few other items…especially when I found out this particular shop was the supplier to Neiman Marcus! Anyway, after a morning and light lunch in Murano, we scooted on over to Burano. Burano is the “lace island” and a little more bustling. It was so incredibly charming. It doesn’t take long to see it all so we spent the afternoon people watching and drinking wine along the main street through town.

An unexpected cold front came through so of course we had to buy some cashmere! Is there any other way? And of course I found more perfume exclusive to Venice and a few other treats here and there. Italy really is ALL THE THINGS! It’s impossible to say what was our favorite; that would be like comparing apples, oranges and bananas. We absolutely loved our time in each destination and look forward to returning.

We left Venice via train…the train station is at the drop off point and makes things so easy. Stay tuned next week for our very scenic train ride through Austria and up to Munich! I know many of you are planning trips to Italy and asked for our exact itinerary. I hope this helps but please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questions!

Ciao, Melanie