The Ultimate Guide For Your Next Girls' Getaway To Venice

Nicknames for Venice include the Floating City, City of Bridges, City of Canals, and the City of Masks. It has also been named the most beautiful city in the world and Europe’s most romantic city. In fact, the New York Times has dubbed it the most beautiful city built by man. Maybe that is why it plays host to about 60 thousand tourists every day. It’s also the ideal location for a trip with your gal pals!

If you don’t already know, the City of Venice is actually a group of over 100 islands that are connected by more than 400 bridges. Surrounded by the canals and lagoons, you should note that most travel is done by gondola or boat. Public transport is done by waterbuses that have scheduled routes. 

The People Mover is an automated shuttle train over the city that gets locals to and from work and other places. There are hubs all over the city but the main ones are the Piazzale Roma and Tronchetto Island. These are the only two places where vehicles are allowed. Drop your shopping parcels and bags off at a luggage storage spot in Venice before heading out with the girls.

Want to Learn Some History?

• St. Mark’s Square 

Also known as Piazza San Marco, the plaza is located between the Doge’s Palace and Jacopo Sansovino’s Library. There are several unique spots like the St. Mark’s Clocktower built in 1499 and several museums, including the Corner Museum. Be sure to visit the Campanile bell tower. 

The arcades of shops, cafés, and other important buildings are the perfect spots for selfies with the girls. Especially the north side of the basilica with the marble lions. Do not miss the adorable boutiques full of masks and other Venetian goods. 

• St. Mark’s Basilica

The square is a large open space with St. Mark’s Basilica as its centerpiece that connects the lagoon to the plaza. The basilica was founded in the 9th century for the body of St. Mark after they stole it from Egypt. 

It is known as the most ornate and magnificent structure built since ancient times. Inside, you will find three knaves, golden mosaics, pillars of marble, and a treasury full of Byzantine art, gold, and other loot.

• Doge’s Palace

Built in 1084, what was once a palace, a government office, and a prison is now a stunning museum you and your pals should not pass up. Wherever you look in this majestic structure you will see beauty and history. Venetian art, an impressive collection of weapons, and exquisite Murano glass can be seen all over the palace. 

From the tapestries and artwork on the ceilings and walls to the plush carpet and marble on the floors, it is all strikingly attractive. Don’t miss the Bridge of Sighs. Doge’s Palace is also still a popular place for mass and other religious venues, so they insist on a dress code of having your shoulders and knees covered.

Retail Therapy Venice Style

• Rialto Market 

Rialto Market is just across the Grand Canal from St. Mark’s Square on the Rialto Bridge. This market has been a commercial hub since 1097! The daily offerings from locals selling their gifts and souvenirs as well as fish, meat, veggies, and fruit. 

In fact, it does not get any fresher than this. Some of the fish are still alive and you can have them cooked for you at some of the kiosks. It is best to go early in the morning when everything is super fresh. 

• Noventa Di Piave Designer Outlet 

With 150 shops including Versace, Jimmy Choo, Prada, and Dolce & Gabbana and 10 eateries such as Bistrot, Bonetti, and Farinella, you and the girls can spend all day and evening shopping here and not get bored or hungry.  

The Noventa Di Piave Designer Outlet has something for everyone, and it is all up to 70% off the regular prices. So, head into Gucci for a bag without worry or grab some new kicks at Nike. Prepare to be amazed. 

• Libreria Acqua Alta Book Store

Even if you are not into books, this adorable shop is the perfect place for selfies to share on social media. You will find books in waterproof containers, bathtubs, and even inside a real gondola. You will not see anything like this place no matter where you go. 

Some of the cool things to see include a staircase built out of old encyclopedias, the courtyard walls made of colorful books, and mannequins, oars, and poles to make the transformation unique. If you are allergic to cats, take some Benadryl before you go because there are several bookstore cats.

When Hunger Strikes

• Ca d’oro alla vedova 

For the best traditional food at a decent price, try the Ca d’oro Alla vedova on Cannaregio. Found tucked in an alley, you can get the best meatballs in the city with a nice warm cup of coffee or hot chocolate. 

The wine list is also great, with some of the best wine choices at awesome prices. And you will love the spaghetti with squid ink sauce if you are not too scared to try it. Their scampi pasta and bigoli in salsa are also tasty. 

• Bakaro 

Bakaro on Dorsoduro is another great place to get some good eats during your stay. From sauteed squid with garlic oil to salmon tartare with passion fruit, Bakaro is a delicious change from the norm. 

This restaurant is a bit more fanciful than Ca d’oro Alla vedova so you should expect to pay a little more. But they also serve burgers five different ways, chicken sandwiches, and tuna. Or just have a drink and enjoy the ambiance. 

• Riviera

If you want to be spoiled and get mouthwatering food that looks as good as it tastes, try Riviera on Fondamenta Zattere Al Ponte Lungo. Seriously, girls, take pictures for Instagram and your other social media profiles before eating it. 

Try the braised beef tail with onions, beef carpaccio with grilled almonds, or the soft fresh cod medallions with cream of milk. The mussels stuffed with king prawns are also a unique seafood experience. Dessert is tiramisu or white chocolate cake with raspberry yogurt.

Of course, you and the girls may want to get some sun and fun at the beach. However, the nearest beaches are on the neighboring island, which is an hour away by boat. But it would be worth it if you enjoy the water because they have over a dozen sandy beaches to enjoy like Paradise Beach and the Murazzi Free Beach. It is a fun way to end your girls’ trip!