One of the world’s most romantic cities should be on any couple’s list and Venice and its 15 million annual visitors – and who knows how many gondola proposals – is a testament to that. You are up for a romantic weekend in Venice?
Here’s 11 tips to get the romance rolling on your Venice holiday.
If you’re still stuck make sure to check out our ideas for a romantic getaway.
Get Tipsy on the Original Bellini at Harry’s Bar
How can a white peach puree cocktail not be a good idea? The home of the Bellini was a favourite of Hemingway, Orson Welles, and Charlie Chaplin and is a true throwback to the 1930’s – if only the prices matched 😉
Spoil Yourself Sleeping at the Royal San Marco
If you’re going to the world’s most romantic city it’s a good idea to get the hotel to match. Romantic weekend in Venice? Then this four star charmer with fine decor and antique furnishings sets the mood like nowhere else, all in an elegant setting steps away from St. Mark’s Square.
Go for a (Predictable) Gondola Ride
You’ll regret it if you don’t. This simple yet expensive activity starts at about €80 for 40 minutes but there’s hardly anything more romantic than the gentle pulse of a gondolier’s oar guiding you through a peaceful highway of canals at sundown. Romantic weekend in Venice – then you shouldn’t miss a Gondola Ride.
See the City from Saint Mark’s Bell Tower
This 99 meter tall tower with an unmatched panoramic view of the city actually collapsed in 1902 and had to be rebuilt. Today visitors can take a risk-free tour to the top for €8.
Split a Tiramisu at Tre Mercanti
This creamy, coffee-flavoured dessert that actually means ‘pick me up’ in Italian became an international sensation from its humble beginnings in nearby Treviso.
It’s no surprise that some of the best in the world is found at Venice’s Tre Mercanti – grab two spoons and dig into their impossibly light, velvety deliciousness and let reality fade away!
Wander the Streets Late, Late at Night
The tourist chaos of daylight Venice winds down by the hour until only a few brave souls remain.
This is the perfect time to grab your lover by the hand and take them canal-side to hear the gentle sound of the lagoon splashing against the concrete – with wine. Bring wine.
Eat Bigoli with Shellfish
This traditional tube-like Venetian pasta is kind of a spaghetti on steroids and goes perfectly with the crustacean overdose you’ll receive when you order it allo scoglio (‘from the rocks’).
Feel free to recreate the scene from Lady and the Tramp but mind the shells 😉
Take a Wrong Turn on Purpose
Like relationships there’s really something special and poetic about taking a wrong turn, panicking, and ending up finding something beautiful regardless – so turn off the smart phones and get exploring.
Get Gelato at Grom and Go for a Walk
What’s sweeter than that romance you’ve got going on? Sorry, but it’s gelato.
Italians eat it after dinner on long evening walks and there are no better streets for this than Venice – grab your scoops at Grom for high quality ice cream made with the highest quality ingredients.
See the Sunset from the Giardini Pubblici
Venice’s biggest green space is a great place to escape the tourist chaos and an even greater place to watch the sun set behind the Venetian skyline.
Prosecco with a View at Skyline Bar
This sleek and modern rooftop bar serves fine varieties of another of the area’s most well-known exports: prosecco. Grab a couple flutes high above the city, watch the boats pass by on the Gran Canal, and soak it all up baby – you’re in Venice!
