Venice is truly one of the most romantic cities in the world. With its labyrinth of canals, stunning architecture, charming bridges, and overall atmosphere of history and mystique, Venice captures the imagination and hearts of all who visit. Let’s explore all the ways this magical floating city woos visitors and makes it one of the most beloved destinations for couples seeking romance.
Table of Contents
History and Origin
Venice has a long and fascinating history. Founded in the 5th century and built on a lagoon, Venice was initially created as a refuge from invading forces. As it grew, the city-state became a major maritime empire, the capital of the Republic of Venice that held vast territories and traded throughout Europe and the Mediterranean. Though its power waned by the 18th century, the splendid relics of its heyday remain. Wandering Venice, you are immersed in the atmosphere of this history.
The City of Canals
One of Venice’s most unique features is its canal system. Instead of roads, Venice has canals: more than 150 in all! Gondolas gracefully slide through the main thoroughfares, such as the Grand Canal, as well as smaller back canals. Few experiences are as iconic and inherently romantic as drifting through the city while nestled in a gondola. Exploring the canal system is like uncovering a hidden, secret side of Venice.
Getting Around by Gondola
For couples seeking romance, going for a gondola ride is an absolute must. You’ll be gently carried through the narrow back canals while your gondolier steers you under petite bridges so close you can reach up and touch the top. Snuggle together as you listen to your gondolier sing traditional Italian songs that echo off the canal walls.
The Grand Canal
All the canal system eventually leads to the Grand Canal, the major waterway that snakes through the heart of the city. Lined with Renaissance and Gothic palaces, a trip down the Grand Canal captures Venice’s elegance and grandeur. Sitting atop a water taxi or private boat cruise and drifting down this iconic canal offers priceless views.
Cuisine and Wine
Venetian cuisine is a key part of experiencing this city, especially for foodie couples. Traditional dishes utilize the abundant seafood from the Venetian lagoon, including cuttlefish risotto and grilled fish. Be sure to sample the desserts too, such as tiramisu and creamy gelato. Pair it all with local Veneto wines, including Valpolicella and Soave. Sit down for an intimate dinner at a backstreet trattoria or relax at a wine bar, like Al Volto, and toast with your sweetheart.
Art and Architecture
As a creative hub and wealthy trading empire, Venice boasts magnificent art and architecture. The Byzantine-style St Mark’s Basilica, overlooking the Piazza San Marco, gleams with gold mosaics and lavish marble carvings. Meander hand-in-hand through other architectural gems like the Ca’ d’Oro palace or Rialto Bridge. See masterpieces by Titian, Tintoretto, and Veronese in galleries like the Accademia or Querini Stampalia Foundation. Admiring this beauty together builds wonderful shared memories.
Festivals and Events
From the world-famous Carnival to the prestigious Venice Biennale contemporary art festival, Venice has an exciting cultural scene. Attending a festival provides a special experience as a couple and an opportunity to see Venice at its liveliest. In February, don ornate masks and costumes for Carnival as the city fills with music, street food, and vibrant parades. Stop during the Biennale from April to November to see installations and the newest in modern art and architecture.
Romance in Venice
Gondola Rides
Gliding through the canals in an intimate gondola, just the two of you with your gondolier, epitomizes romance. Relax, gaze at the noble palazzos drifting by, and savor this private moment together. As the sun sets and lanterns glow, the magic intensifies.
Intimate Restaurants
Tucked away on the city’s backstreets and canals are restaurants perfect for couples, with just a few small tables and candles flickering in the windows. Dine on fresh seafood pasta and share a decadent dessert. Trade loving glances in the soft lighting, with no rush to leave.
Getting Lost Together
Wandering Venice’s maze of narrow alleys, bridges, and canals with no set agenda is romantic. It’s easy to lose yourself in this city. That sense of discovery when stumbling upon a quiet canal-side square, fountain, or cafe you have all to yourselves makes simple moments meaningful. Enjoy being lost in each other’s eyes and in exploring this city.
Shopping in Venice
Shopping together for souvenirs and unique Venetian items can be fun. Don’t miss the mask shops, where artisans craft elaborate masks like those worn during Carnival. Watch glassblowing demonstrations on Murano island and peruse the exquisite glass art. At boutiques you’ll find locally made lace, velvet, and the famous Carnival costumes. Pick up something you’ll look back on and always remember your time in Venice.
Lodging
You have wonderful options when choosing where to stay in Venice. Five-star hotels occupy former palaces along the Grand Canal, offering opulent rooms and top-notch service. For more cozy intimacy, book a room at a small, family-run bed and breakfast. Self-catering apartment rentals also let you live like a local. When it comes to romance, Venice has accommodations sure to suit every couple.
Day Trips
While Venice itself promises endless romance, several excellent day trips beckon nearby. Escaping the city crowds together for a day adds to the experience. Catch a ferry to the islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello to see glassblowing, colorful houses, and ornate Byzantine mosaics respectively. Verona, the setting for Romeo and Juliet, makes a perfect day trip for literature buffs. Take a short train ride to the shores of Lake Garda for villa tours and lakeside strolls hand-in-hand.
Getting to Venice
Flying In
The easiest way to reach Venice is flying into Venice Marco Polo Airport. From there it’s just a 20-minute boat ride to reach the city center. Arriving by boat under the Rialto Bridge and past St Mark’s Square sets the romantic tone from the start.
Arriving by Train
The Venice Santa Lucia train station is right on the Grand Canal’s edge, allowing you to immediately step out into the magic. Coming by train from cities like Florence, Verona, or Milan means scenic views as your anticipation builds before reaching Venice.
Conclusion
With its enchanting canals, winding alleyways just made for getting lost, resplendent art and architecture, delicious cuisine, and air of history and mystery, Venice sweeps you away to a more elegant and romantic past. It’s the perfect destination for couples looking to be immersed in beauty, create lasting memories, and share special moments together. Give yourself completely to the magic and romance of Venice.
FAQ 1: What is the best time of year to visit Venice?
Late spring and early fall are ideal times with pleasant weather, smaller crowds, and lovely seasonal offerings like artichoke dishes and wine harvests. July through August are the most crowded and hot. February is lively and festive for Carnival but cold.
FAQ 2: What is there to do in Venice at night?
At night, enjoy intimate dinners at restaurants and bars. Listen to live music in squares or on boats. Stroll hand-in-hand over iluminated bridges. Go for evening gondola rides under the moonlight. Shows and concerts often run at night as well.
FAQ 3: How many days do you need in Venice?
At minimum, three full days allows you to see the top sights. Better is four to five days to deeply experience the city, with time to get purposefully lost together without a schedule. For a truly immersive trip, plan to stay a full week.
FAQ 4: Is Venice safe?
Yes, Venice is a very safe city, especially in the main tourist center areas. Use normal precautions as in any city, be aware of your belongings, and avoid poorly lit back areas at night. Violent crime is rare.
FAQ 5: How do you get around Venice?
The main ways to get around Venice are by walking, tragullo boat buses on the Grand Canal, private water taxis, and gondolas. Small streets are for pedestrians only. Just wander and get happily lost! Avoid cars which are restricted to outlying islands.