Venice
The Floating City
There is no city in the world like Venice. Built on water, suspended between sky and sea, it is a place that defies every reasonable expectation of what a city should be. Every canal, every bridge, every crumbling palazzo tells a story that stretches back centuries.
Venice rewards slow travel. The real Venice reveals itself when you put the map away and start wandering. When you get lost and realize that getting lost here is actually the whole experience.
Insider tip
The tourists who rush through St. Mark's Square and leave miss the whole point. Venice is best experienced slowly. Put the map away and wander. The best moments here are the ones you stumble upon.
What to do
Doge's Palace
A Gothic masterpiece and an absolute must visit. Pre-book tickets to avoid long lines. Inside you will find grand halls, stunning art and the famous Bridge of Sighs. One of those buildings that genuinely exceeds expectations in person.
St. Mark's Basilica
A showstopper with its opulent design and incredible mosaics. Pre-book your visit and dress modestly. Do not miss the Pala d'Oro, an altarpiece adorned with gold and precious stones. One of the most extraordinary interiors you will ever stand in.
St. Mark's Square
Simply breathtaking. The cafés are touristy and often overpriced but having a drink here at least once is a must. Sitting in that square and soaking in the atmosphere is worth every euro.
The Campanile
The bell tower in St. Mark's Square offers breathtaking views of Venice and the lagoon. Pre-booking available but not essential. If you have the time go up.
Basilica Santa Maria della Salute
A stunning church across the main canal worth the walk for the building, the surrounding art stores and the incredible views from Ponte dell'Accademia along the way.
Ponte di Rialto
The area is buzzing with life and worth exploring. Skip the restaurants right at the bridge though. Walk a street or two away and you will find much better options at far better prices.
The Gondola
A quintessential Venice experience that gives you a completely different perspective of the city. Rates are typically €90 before 7pm and €110 after. Worth doing at least once, ideally in the evening when the light is extraordinary.
Day Trips from Venice
Got some time for a day trip? Murano and Burano are both worth it. Murano is famous for its centuries-old glassmaking tradition — watching the artisans transform molten glass into something extraordinary is genuinely fascinating, and many shops offer shipping so you can bring pieces home without the stress. Burano is the one you cannot miss though. Its vibrantly colorful houses, intricate lace-making tradition and leisurely pace make it unlike anywhere else in the world. Take your time to wander, stop at a café and let the island surprise you. Consider a private boat to get there for a more relaxed experience.
Where to Stay?
Il Palazzo Experimental
Preferred partner
A beautifully designed boutique hotel on the Giudecca canal with stunning waterfront views, elegant rooms and one of the best cocktail bars in Venice. The kind of property that feels like a hidden discovery even in one of the world's most visited cities.
Hotel Ai Reali di Venezia
Preferred partner
A refined Venetian palace with canal views, antique-filled rooms and a full-service spa just steps from the Rialto Bridge.
Listed hotels are preferred partners, meaning Elavated Travel clients may enjoy benefits such as complimentary breakfast, upgrades when available, hotel credits, and VIP treatment.
Corte di Gabriela
Preferred partner
An upscale boutique hotel known for sophisticated design and exceptional service in a central yet peaceful location.