The five team members who were in Slovenia all moved on to Venice for a final three nights together. This ezine focuses on the reality of the travel experience in Venice and what can be done to minimize something we can all agree on: crowds are annoying.
Venice is almost overwhelmed with tourists for 11 months of the year, with January being the only indication of a low season.
Clearly, my photo below isn't one to use to sell the joys of the city, but it's important to us that our clients know in advance what the experience will truly be like. On the main thoroughfares through Venice, this is what you'll see—at least there are no cars!
Still, we strongly advocate that Venice is absolutely worth the trip and here are 5 reasons why (and how to beat the crowds!).
1. Get Lost
Venice is full of small, winding streets and alleyways that often lead to lesser-known spots like quiet piazzas, hidden churches, or tiny cafes. Some of the most charming parts of Venice are off the beaten path, and getting lost can lead to discovering unique places away from the crowds.
By wandering aimlessly, you can find yourself in more tranquil, authentic parts of the city where Venetians live and work, giving you a deeper experience of local life. Turning down random streets allows you to embrace the beauty of Venice in an unexpected, spontaneous way.
Whether it’s a quiet canal, an artisan’s workshop, or an impromptu street performance, Venice offers countless little surprises that make getting lost more of an adventure than a frustration.
Venice is relatively small, so you’re never too far from a recognizable landmark or a Vaporetto stop (water bus). This makes it a low-risk place to lose yourself, knowing you can always find your way back.
2. Padua
Just a 25 minute train ride from Venice is Padua (Padova if you are speaking Italian). This city enchants with its blend of medieval history, Renaissance art, and vibrant student life.
The city's charm lies in its iconic landmarks like the Basilica of Saint Anthony and the Scrovegni Chapel, adorned with Giotto's frescoes. Its lively piazzas, botanical gardens, and elegant canals offer a mix of serenity and culture, all wrapped in timeless Italian charm.
And not too many tourists head here despite its proximity to Venice. Even the wonderful markets are comfortable to stroll around.
3. Torcello
Most visitors to Venice would not have ever heard of Torcello, at least compared to it's more famous neighboring islands in the Venice lagoon, Murano and Burano. This is a true hidden gem. An absolutely tranquil island, Torcello offers a peaceful escape from the bustle of nearby Venice, and just a 15 minute boat ride gets you there. Its charm lies in its serene atmosphere, with very few residents and abundant nature. Visitors can admire Byzantine mosaics at the ancient Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, stroll through wildflower-strewn paths, and enjoy panoramic views of the lagoon. The island's quiet beauty, rich history, and rustic charm make perfect for those seeking solitude and a slower pace of life.
4. Murano
The island justifiably famous for it's incredible hand-blown glass products gets crowded. BUT, head there for opening time around 9am on a private boat, NOT the public water taxi, and you can miss the masses and enjoy a virtually private glass-blowing demonstration and stroll around the gallery showrooms at leisure. What many travelers miss is that Murano has much more to offer. The island boasts beautiful canals lined with colorful buildings, providing a quieter, more relaxed alternative to Venice. Visitors can explore historic sites like the Basilica dei Santi Maria e Donato, known for its Byzantine mosaics, and the 19th-century Church of San Pietro Martire, which houses works by Tintoretto. Murano also offers charming cafes, artisan shops, and scenic walks along the water, giving visitors a rich cultural and artistic experience beyond its glass heritage.
5. Burano
Venice lagoon's other "famous" island is Burano. It's about a 30-minute boat ride from the center of Venice and is much smaller, with a population of around 2,000 people. Burano is known for its colorful houses and lace-making tradition. It doesn't have the iconic landmarks—like St. Mark's Basilica, the Doge's Palace, or the Rialto Bridge—that draw millions of visitors to Venice, which helps keep the crowds smaller. Most tourists only stay for a few hours, mainly between late morning and early afternoon, so Burano is actually peaceful in the mornings and late afternoons.
We highly recommend a visit.
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Hi, I'm John, and I'm told I have a cool accent. I absolutely love travel and I am proud to have built a team as passionate about exploring the world as myself. It took me a very long time to align my career with my undeniable passion for exploring, but now I and the team are here for you. Your personal travel tailors - award reservation and luxury custom itinerary experts. We provide a bespoke service, imagining and creating itineraries for independent minded families and groups.