8 interesting places you can go from Venice for one day. Self-guided day trips from Venice: Verona, Padua, Trieste, etc.
Many people come here to see the incredible architecture of the city, gondolas and canals. And, of course, a great time. However, one or two, maximum three days are enough to explore a city, even as extraordinary as Venice. This makes the curious traveler look for itineraries for day trips from Venice. Get some air and explore other fascinating places in the Veneto region. If possible, independently, inexpensively and with the prospect of a safe return to the hotel that evening.
Individual excursions in Venice
If you have not fully explored the city and are not ready to organize leisure activities on your own, it makes sense to negotiate with an individual guide and not waste time visiting other places yet. Why private tours? Firstly, no matter how much we would like to seem independent and know everything in the world, getting to know the city with a local is fascinating.
Secondly, a limited number of participants on an individual excursion (up to 4-5 people) is the only chance to hear at least something, remember and not get lost. Especially in a "cramped" city like Venice.
What excursions should beginners look for? You can limit yourself to popular hits - or, which are ideal for the first acquaintance with the city.
Having been on sightseeing tours, you can go further and look towards original, but no less intense routes - or. In the latter version, the guide will take you through the most lustful amazing places and bakari (bars).
Day Trips from Venice
We invite everyone else to explore the city and its surroundings on their own. List of the best day trips from Venice.
Trek # 8 - Verona
Day Trips from Venice - Verona
Due to the fact that Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet takes place in Verona, the city has gained fame as the most romantic in all of Italy. Is this really so, to judge the locals, and the hearts of tourists invariably sink with delight and anticipation. Yes, yes, in Verona, at every step you can rub something, make a wish, for love. The striking facades of houses in Piazza delle Erbe, the central Piazza Bra and the 1st century Arena di Verona, where opera performances still take place, are key places in the city. Apart from Juliet's courtyard, of course.
The journey to Verona from Venice by car or train will take about an hour.
Trek # 7 - Ravenna
Where else to go from Venice? To Ravenna!
Traveling to this city is a good option for a self-guided excursion from Venice, as you probably will have time to return in one day. Why is Ravenna interesting? First of all - Byzantine mosaics, examples of which can be found throughout the city. The most famous examples adorn the Basilica of San Vitale, Piazza del Popolo and the Mausoleum of Gallia Placidia.
By train from Venice to Ravenna can be reached in 3 hours. It will take a few more hours to explore the city.
Trek # 6 - Padua
Padua is a 25-minute train ride away, making it ideal for a one-day excursion from Venice. You will see the sights and be sure to return to the hotel. According to data from the archives, the city was founded in the XII century BC. BC, making it the oldest in northern Italy. In addition, Padua is also very beautiful. Of the sights, it is worth immediately remembering the Basilica of St. Anthony and the grandiose Scrovegni Chapel, famous for the frescoes by Giotto of the XIV century. They stand out on the must see list of this city. For the rest of the time, plan to visit the city's Botanical Garden of Padua (it is also one of the oldest in Europe) and the old university.
Tour # 5 - Treviso
Just half an hour from Venice by train is the medieval city of Treviso, which has preserved its defensive walls, city gates and an old moat in its original form. The city center is small but pretty cute, with brick-walled buildings and good coffee shops. In addition to coffee, be sure to order a glass of prosecco in Treviso and (walking - walking like that!) - both the pride of Italy.
Trek # 4 - Vicenza
One of the best (albeit little known) day trips from Venice you can think of. The city is only 45 minutes away and is known for its stunning architecture, especially the buildings that were designed by Andreo Palladio. Among the most famous are the Teatro Olimpico and the magnificent Villa Rotonda, the main highlight of Vicenza. The historic center is beautiful, like almost everything in Italy. You can just take a walk, but it will be more interesting to visit local art galleries.
Trek # 3 - Sirmione, Lake Garda
Day Trips from Venice - Lake Garda
The city of Sirmione is located on a narrow peninsula that juts out into Lake Garda. The trip there will take two and a half hours, but the magnificent lake, the scent of lemons in the air, and the unique city on the water will cover all the possible disadvantages of a day trip. What to see in Sirmione? The 14th century church and the 13th century Scaliger castle. The rest of the time can be devoted to leisurely walks around the city, since it is tiny.
Trek # 2 - Trieste
Trieste is a two-hour train ride from Venice, making the journey into the city quite long but exciting. Outside of Italy, the city is known as the residence of James Joyce. It is interesting that in the cuisine, architecture and language of Trieste, Italian, Austro-Hungarian and even Slavic influences merged together. What came of this, decide on the spot, if you dare, of course, organize yourself a one-day excursion from Venice. Among the places of interest are the old town and the neoclassical Austrian region. The most magnificent sea views of Trieste open up from Castello di Miramare - a castle located in the vicinity of the city.
Important: to visit Trieste and visit the Miramare castle, one day may not be enough.
Excursion # 1 - islands of the Venetian lagoon
Excursions from Venice - Burano island
The waters near Venice are full of islands, the most famous of which are Burano, Murano and Torcello. Murano is famous for its glass craft, where travelers can visit private shops and watch the work of glass blowers, as well as explore some of the old churches. Burano is a fishing village famous for lace making and colorful houses. Torcello Island stands out on the list. Once it was even more significant than Venice, but now the glory has faded. It is a beautiful and quiet place, famous for its ancient Byzantine temples, especially the Cathedral of Santa Maria Asunta.
Walking to the nearby islands is the most popular excursion from Venice. You can travel from island to island by vaporetto. One day is just enough to inspect three islands at once, if you are fully armed - you are guided by the terrain and read a lot before the trip.
Excursions in Venice and surroundings
The best excursions in Venice are not massive "gondola rides", but unusual routes from local residents. They are created by people who love and know the city. All excursions are conducted in Russian.
If you decide to spend a week in Venice, then, of course, you may have a quite natural desire to combine your stay in the capital of the Most Serene Republic with exploring the surrounding area. Fortunately, there are many interesting things near the city of gondolas.
Today I will tell you where you can go from Venice for one day, and at the same time I will share information on how to get to interesting places without spending extra money.
ISLANDS OF VENICE: MURANO, TORCELLO, BURANO
The most obvious thing is to ride the islands of the Venetian lagoon: Murano, Torcello and Burano. The tour takes a day and is more than enough to explore the three most famous islands of Venice. First, you will be taken to Murano- for my taste, the most uninteresting of all the islands on the list of the mandatory program, but nevertheless, you should not skip it, because Murano glass is a full-fledged attraction of Venice, and there is its museum here.
The name "Torcello" often makes Russians smile, but in vain - it comes from the word "torre", which means "tower". Interestingly, there is no tower on the island, although, according to an ancient legend, it was she who helped the Veneti to discover this place many centuries ago. According to legend, in the fifth century AD, the ancestors of the modern inhabitants of Torcello were from the now defunct city of Altinum. They feared an invasion of barbarians led by the formidable Attila, and therefore prayed to God and asked him to protect them from the enemy. A sign was sent to the Venets, which said that they should climb the tallest tower in the city, and from there see a safe haven. That was done, the inhabitants climbed the tower and from its top they saw the island on which they escaped.
Photo: Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta
Venetians still live on Torcello, although there are very few of them. According to statistics, depending on the season, the population on the island ranges from 30 to 300 people. The main local attraction is the Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta, where Byzantine mosaics have been preserved: one depicts the Virgin Mary, and the other depicts the Last Judgment. The second church on the island is the octagonal Santa Fosca. By the way, these churches are the oldest of the Venetian ones, their construction began in 638. Unlike other churches in Venice, Santa Maria Assunta and Santa Fosca have never been rebuilt, so they are rare examples of early Christian architecture.
There is also an archaeological park near the basilica. Fragments of statues, sarcophagi and a monumental stone throne are exhibited here in the open air. It is believed that this is the throne of Attila himself, who nevertheless reached the city of Altinum and wiped it off the face of the earth - you see how correctly the Veneti did that they fled to the island of Torcello. True, the throne did not pass the test of historians, it was established that Attila did not get to Torcello, therefore this stone artifact has nothing to do with the legendary leader of the Huns. Nevertheless, a curious belief is associated with the throne, it is believed that if a girl sits on it, then in the same year she will certainly marry.
In the photo: an architectural park near Torcello
There is also a charming cafe on Torcello where it makes sense to stop for lunch. Here you can taste grilled fish and seafood in batter. They are served on a plate of bread, which is also supposed to be eaten. There is only one cafe on the island, so you shouldn't miss it.
In the photo: seafood on a bread plate
Third in the list of islands - Burano, the same one with colorful houses. By the way, the houses are painted in bright colors for practical reasons, it's just that the island is often shrouded in dense fog, so in the old days the multi-colored buildings played the role of a kind of signal lights. They were guided by them in order to safely moor to the shore, and it was easier for the inhabitants of Burano to find their house by color in the fog.
In the photo: the colorful island of Burano
Of course, many have heard about the famous Buran lace. On the island, to this day, there are several shops selling them. It makes sense for girls to buy lace collars - they can always be sewn onto a black dress and you get a version in the style of Yves Saint Laurent's classic outfits - like, for example, Catherine Deneuve wore in the movie "Beauty of the Day".
HOW MUCH DOES A TICKET TO THE ISLANDS COST? To visit all three islands in one day, buy a ferry ticket from Tabakeria (traghettij / traghetto) for 24 hours. It is called Biglietto turistico 24 H and costs 20 euros. ...
FALLING: GIOTTO'S MURALS, THE LARGEST AREA IN EUROPE AND A FAMOUS UNIVERSITY
Padua is one of the most curious cities in Veneto, where you can spend a whole day with pleasure and benefit. The easiest way to get there from Venice is by train, and the travel time is less than half an hour. When you arrive at Padua train station, immediately head towards the center - the direction will be indicated on the brown signs with the inscription Centro.
In the photo: one of the city canals of Padua
The first curious object that you meet on your way is ancient roman arena... Of course, this is not the Colosseum of Rome and not even the Arena of Verona, but you should not pass by anyway, because near the Arena in the same park is the famous Scrovegni Chapel- a church whose walls inside are completely covered with frescoes by the great Giotto.
In the photo: the ancient Roman Arena in Padua
For some reason, it is believed that getting into the chapel is difficult, and tickets must be ordered in advance, but in reality it is not so - just go through, buy a ticket (it costs 15 euros) and go inside. Visitors are launched into the chapel in groups, inside it is painted like a magic box, and the most attention of visitors is attracted by a fresco from the image of Hell, in the center of which sits a pot-bellied devil of blue color, eating a sinner. By the way, this very image of the Last Judgment, along with the fresco in Bologna's Cathedral of San Petronio, is considered canonical.
After visiting the Scrovegni Chapel, continue down the street and you will inevitably find yourself in the city center, where the most beautiful building of the city courthouse is located. Palazzo della Rajone, the ancient Jewish district of the Ghetto, Piazza delle Erbe, where the market is located to this day, as well as the Pedrocchi cafe - one of the oldest in all of Italy.
Well, do not forget to look into the Padovan University, the walls of which are decorated with the coats of arms of eminent families, whose offspring studied here. By the way, this is the second university in Italy after Bologna, it was founded in 1222, and Copernicus and Galileo taught here - the department of the latter is still preserved at the university.
In the photo: a statue of a Trojan horse in the Palazzo della Rajone
After seeing the center, go further in the direction from the station and in 10 minutes you will find yourself on the largest square in Europe - Prato della Valle... It is surrounded on all sides by statues of famous inhabitants of Padua, and after taking a walk on it, go to Cathedral of Saint Anthony- the second most popular Catholic church in Italy after St. Peter's Basilica in Rome.
Photo: Prato della Valle - the largest square in Europe
The entrance to the cathedral is free, but filming is prohibited inside. From the outside, the building looks extremely non-trivial, because its architectural appearance reflects the features of Romanesque basilicas and Catholic churches, and many associate the high towers of the temple with minarets. The interior of the cathedral amazes with its luxury and wealth, here there are sculptural compositions, and gilding, and a chapel with the relics of the Saint, which are imprisoned in gold and crystal.
Well, after sightseeing, go for a walk along the streets of the city center, most of which are hidden under numerous arches, they are another feature of the architectural appearance of Padua. By the way, restaurants and cafes in Padua are much cheaper than in Venice, and the quality of the food served here is several times higher, so it makes sense to stay for dinner here.
Photo: Padua Observatory, where Galileo watched the stars
HOW DO I GET TO PADUI? The easiest way is by train regionale veloce, they leave every half hour from Santa Lucia train station at 12 and 42 minutes. Padua is the second stop after Mestre and takes 25 minutes. One way ticket costs 4.15 euros. The main thing is not to forget to stamp your ticket at the machine at the station.
MONTEGROTTO THERMAL POOLS
One of the largest thermal zones in Europe is located near Venice, where the resorts of Abano Terme and Montegrotto are located. And I have good news for you - from Venice there is an opportunity to go to the thermal baths for one day in order to bathe heartily in outdoor pools with warm and healthy water. I must say right away, don't be guided by Abano, getting there by public transport is problematic, but there is a railway station in Montegrotto, and the road here from Venice Santa Lucia station will take 40 minutes if you go to regionale veloce.
True, not all Montegrotto hotels allow guests who do not live with them into their pools. One of the loyal, and even with an excellent pool - Mioni Royal San... It is located next to the train station. Just get off the train at the Terme Euganee-Abano-Montegrotto stop, cross the street to the left and you will see him immediately. There is a huge outdoor pool, and there are also saunas and a jacuzzi. To get to the hotel, you need to call +39 049 891 1711 in advance and book your visit. Bathrobes and towels are given to the guests of the thermal baths, but slippers, swimwear and hats (they must be worn in the pools) must be taken with you.
HOW MUCH DOES THE THERMAL POOLS COST? The cost of a single visit to Mioni Royal San is from 35 to 40 euros per person, depending on the day of the week. You can get there, as I wrote above, by train regionale veloce, these are the same trains that go to Padua, they leave from Venice station every half hour. In short, take the same train, but get off at a stop later at the station Terme Euganee-Abano-Montegrotto... The ticket price is 4.90 euros one way, but do not forget to stamp it before boarding the train in the machine on the platform.
Venice is one of the most extraordinary cities in the world and is sure to be remembered for its unique charm and stunning architecture. You can walk endlessly along its winding ancient streets, enjoying the unforgettable atmosphere and ancient palaces. But if you want to take a break from the noisy, touristy city - go to the surroundings, because there are many interesting things here too. Where to go from Venice for one day? Here are some options ...
Where to go from Venice for one day
The city of Saint Anthony is believed to have been founded in 1185 BC. Locals call Padua the city of three “without” - the Saint without a name (Anthony of Padua is usually called simply “Saint”, Meadow without grass (the main square of Prato della Valle, which is one of the largest squares in Europe) and Cafe without a door (the legendary Cafe Pedrocchi , whose doors were not closed 24 hours a day.) The city is famous for its historical and cultural heritage.
Shrouded in many secrets, the city of love and romance is mesmerized by its magical atmosphere and unique architecture. The best way to get acquainted with is to go for a walk through the Old Town, looking at the many ancient buildings. The city known as "Little Rome" is sure to impress with its artistic and cultural heritage.
Near the southern foot of the Alps is Lake Garda, which appeared here at the end of the last ice age. Small towns, architectural complexes and gardens are comfortably located along its coast. Sirmione, the Scaligerian castle, Monte Baldo mountain, Limone Sul Garda, Riva del Garda ... It will take more than one day to visit them all! But if you want to leave the noisy, touristy city - feel free to choose any place on the coast of the largest lake in Italy, and you will not go wrong!
The center of a small town, surrounded by picturesque fields, is located within the powerful walls on the top of the hill. A medieval festival is held here every two years, during which locals dress up in chess suits. Thanks to him, Marostica is also known as the "city of chess", because even in the main square of the city you can see a giant chessboard! The main attractions of the city are two ancient castles: one is on the main square, and the other is on the top of the hill.
This provincial town still retains the luxury of the Renaissance. There are a lot of architectural monuments and works of art in the city, but the main attraction of Ferrara is the Castle of St. Michael (Castello Estense). In the Middle Ages, it was the luxurious residence of the d'Este dukes, so the interiors are very impressive!
The city, also known as "Little Venice", has been known since Roman times and is located in the southern part of the Venetian lagoon. In 1987, the city was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List due to its exceptional feature: the historic center looks like a fish skeleton from a bird's eye view.
The dominant feature of the city is the Dolomites mountain range, among which the Antelio and Civetta mountains, the three Lavaredo peaks and the Marmolada massif stand out. In Belluno you can see the most beautiful medieval palaces and the magnificent cathedral. And the main bell tower, which for centuries has dominated the old square, is the tallest structure of its kind in the entire region.
Ancient palaces and squares, a castle on a hill, a cathedral, the construction of which began in 1257, the sea and the unique Venetian charm - this is what will delight the quiet and majestic city of the discerning tourist. And on the outskirts of the city, there is the famous Palmanova outlet center, which will certainly appeal to all shopping lovers.
This seaside resort is known for its beaches. Well, if you are not a fan of such a vacation, go to the Old Town, most of the historical and cultural values of which are included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. In addition, the city is famous all over the world for its luxurious mosaics.
Trieste and Miramare Castle
The pompous city, from which the Austrians turned their backs and which the Italians did not fall in love with, will delight with monumental architecture, rarely inherent in coastal cities. In the Bay of Grignano, there is a fabulous white man who is said to have a curse hanging over him. Be sure to visit this romantic place and learn its history!
It is enough to look at the map to understand: there are more than enough beach resorts in Italy. Wherever you find yourself, wherever you come to in Italy, the sea is always close by. Even from the alpine slopes, you can reach the coast in just 3-4 hours.
It should also be noted that the sea resorts in Italy are extremely diverse. In Italy, there are wide sandy beaches, and secluded coves with pebble shores, and beaches with a gentle entrance to the sea, and places where the depth begins at the very coast. In a word, the choice is vast - there is something to talk about. This, in fact, is what we will do.
However, before proceeding directly to, we will make a few reservations (to make it easier for you to navigate, since the text turned out to be voluminous).
The review of Italian beach resorts presented in this article is structured as follows. The focus is on popular Italian cities (or rather airports), where it is not difficult to get there from anywhere in the world, including from Russia (read more about air traffic with Italy).
Focusing on these cities / airports, we consider the nearby resorts that seem to us the most interesting both in terms of quality and in terms of transport accessibility. (Most of the beach resorts discussed below are accessible by rail - see www.trenitalia.com.) This is not our intent to list all of the options. If you like any of the directions listed below, then you can (and even need to!) Delve deeper into the topic - you will find many interesting places that we have not mentioned here.
So, in this review you will find information about the resorts located near the following cities:
Also, the beach resorts of Calabria and Puglia will be briefly considered. The major Italian islands - Sardinia and Sicily ( beaches of sicily considered in detail), since they require special attention.
As you can see, the order of consideration is from north to south, that is, from top to bottom on the map. It seems logical :) However, this order is also due to the fact that it is easier, faster and usually cheaper to get to the north of Italy than to the south. However, the northern resorts are usually more expensive than the southern ones. (Although, as you know, there are no rules without exceptions.)
Finally, it should be said that all of the following is focused primarily on independent travelers. If you are interested in standard tours, then we advise you to refer to such sites as and where you can find and buy these same tours online. However, it is quite possible here you will find something useful for yourself.
On this, perhaps, we will complete the introductory part. Let's move on to the review.
Where to go to the sea in Italy, and how to get to the best beaches
So, Italy, sea, rest, beaches. Go!
Generally speaking, Venice itself can be considered as a beach resort, since there is an island Lido di Venezia(Lido di Venezia) famous for its long sandy beach. You can get here by water directly from Venice airport (sailing a little over an hour; see www.alilaguna.it). The undoubted advantage of the Lido is that all the Venetian sights are close by - for example, St. Mark's Square can be reached in just 15 minutes. Thus, it is quite possible to combine a beach holiday with walks in Venice. Read more about this option in the article "The Beaches of Venice".
Another variant - Lido di Jesolo(Lido di Jesolo)... This resort is located east of Venice and has an equally sandy and even longer beach. Venice airport is again close - about 40 minutes by ATVO bus (see www.atvo.it).
Further east you can find places such as Eraclea Mare(Eraclea Mare), Caorle(Caorle) and Bibione(Bibione), which is also quite easy to get to by ATVO buses.
To the south of Venice is the pretty town of Chioggia with its adjoining resort Sottomarina(Sottomarina)... The beaches here are also sandy, and the infrastructure is well developed, but getting by public transport is not as convenient and quick as to the above resorts. In this case (especially if you are traveling on vacation with small children) it makes sense to order a transfer (see) or rent a car, since this can be done directly at the airport (see www.rentalcars.com, www.economybookings.com and similar sites).
By the way, all these resorts can be reached not only through Venice airport (Aeroporto di Venezia Marco Polo, VCE), but also through the nearby Treviso airport (Aeroporto di Treviso Antonio Canova, TSF), as well as through Verona airport (Aeroporto di Verona Valerio Catullo, VRN). However, a few words should be said about Verona separately.
- Venice. General info + Venice beaches
Getting to the beach resorts in Italy through Verona is perhaps not the best idea (unless cheap tickets turn up - see www.skyscanner.ru, www.momondo.ru, www.aviasales.ru and other flight search engines). However, one cannot fail to notice that Verona is just a stone's throw from Lake Garda, where there are also beaches. It is clear that a beach vacation on the shores of an Alpine lake is not at all the same as a vacation at the sea. However, this opportunity should not be overlooked either. Moreover, Garda is interesting not only as a beach, but also as a thermal resort. From this point of view, it is worth looking in particular at Sirmione(Sirmione).
However, back to the seaside resorts, and pay attention to the next point. Verona can be interesting as a transit point on the way to the beach resorts of the Adriatic in the event that you plan to travel to Italy by train (read more about the railway communication between Russia and Italy).
Again, like Verona, Milan boasts proximity to lakes. In addition to Garda, it is worth mentioning at least two more lakes here - Como(Lago di Como) and Maggiore(Lago Maggiore), - where you can also find beaches.
- General information: about Milan, about Bergamo
- Flights: to Milan and Bergamo
- Transfers:,
- Car rental locations: in Malpensa, at Bergamo airport
Genoa, as already mentioned, is located on the shores of the Ligurian Sea, and the most convenient way to get to the beach resorts of Liguria is not through Milan, but just through Genoa. In addition, you can not only fly directly from Russia to Genoa, but also take a direct train. There are a lot of options: in Liguria there are both sandy and pebble beaches.
West of Genoa, for example, are San Remo(San Remo), Diano Marina(Diano Marina), Alassio(Alassio), Pietra Ligure(Pietra Ligure) and Finale Ligure(Finale Ligure)... The beaches in the western part of Liguria are quite wide, long, often sandy, although pebbles are not uncommon. All these places are not so far from Genoa, but if you wish, you can find beaches and closer: for example, in Arenzano(Arenzano)- here the beach is pebbly - or in Cogoleto(Cogoleto)- beaches are partly sandy, partly pebbly.
There are also many interesting places to the east of Genoa. Most of the beaches of eastern Liguria are pebbly and at the same time do not differ in length (probably, with the exception of the beach in Lavagna, Lavagna). But the water here is clean and the places are picturesque. Attention should be paid, for example, to Sori(Sori) and Camogli(Camogli)- both locations are near Genoa. A little further is located Santa Margherita Ligure(Santa Margherita Ligure)... Even further - Sestri Levante(Sestri Levante); here, by the way, there is a beautiful sandy beach. The further, the more rocky the terrain becomes, however, there are also places for swimming. There are even beaches in the Cinque Terre. The most interesting are in Monterosso al Mare(Monterosso al Mare): there are both sandy and pebble (more).
All of the listed resorts of Liguria are accessible by rail. Genoa Airport (Aeroporto di Genova Cristoforo Colombo, GOA), in turn, has convenient connections to the Sestri Ponente train station (Genova Sestri Ponente Aeroporto).
A detailed overview of the beach resorts on the Ligurian coast is presented in this article.
Let's return to the shores of the Adriatic Sea, where, in addition to the considered resorts, there is the well-known Rimini(Rimini)... Wide sandy beaches, calm sea and excellently developed tourist infrastructure - all this attracts a huge number of beach lovers in Rimini and its surroundings. There is a place here for families with children, for noisy youth, and for elderly tourists (read more about hotels and districts of Rimini). In addition, this is a favorite destination of Russian tour operators. Therefore, before thinking about an independent trip to Rimini, you should carefully study the offers of travel agencies (you can look at the same ones). It is highly likely that buying a tour in Rimini will be cheaper than organizing a vacation on your own.
Conveniently, Rimini has its own international airport (Aeroporto di Rimini Federico Fellini, RMI), from where, if you wish, you can even walk to some hotels (see, for example, Hotel Ascot). In addition, Rimini is conveniently accessible via Bologna Airport (Aeroporto di Bologna Guglielmo Marconi, BLQ).
However, it is not at all necessary to be limited to Rimini and its immediate surroundings. If you like the Adriatic, but you are not attracted by either Rimini or Riccione(Riccione) nor Cattolica(Cattolica) nor Milano Marittima(Milano Marittima), then it is worth taking a closer look at the located to the south Pesaro(Pesaro), Fano(Fano) and Senigallia(Senigallia)... Here - all the same wide sandy beaches and a smooth entrance to the sea. These resorts are also easily accessible via Rimini airport. The airport of Ancona (Aeroporto delle Marche, AOI) is also worth keeping in mind.
To the north of Rimini you can pay attention to such places as Lido Adriano(Lido Adriano) and Punta Marina(Punta Marina), which is not far from Ravenna.
- General information: about Rimini, about Bologna
- Flights: to Rimini, to Bologna
- Transfers:,
- Car rental locations: at Rimini airport, at Bologna airport
Pisa is perfect as a transit point on the way to the spacious sandy beaches of the so-called Tuscan Riviera (aka Versilia). In particular, from the airport of Pisa (Aeroporto di Pisa Galileo Galilei, PSA) in just over an hour you can take a bus (for more details see www.pisa-airport.com) to such popular seaside resorts as Viareggio(Viareggio) and Lido di Camaiore(Lido di Camaiore)... Nearby also Forte dei Marmi(Forte dei Marmi), Marina di Massa(Marina di Massa) and Marina di Carrara(Marina di Carrara).
Eastern Liguria with its cozy beaches, picturesque bays and other natural beauties, by and large, is also not far away, and if you are interested in this particular region, then Pisa should be borne in mind as an alternative to the considered Genoa.
Also, look south of Pisa. There are many interesting places: for example, Marina di Cecina(Marina di Cecina), San Vincenzo(San Vincenzo) and Follonica(Follonica)... These are quite calm resorts, perfect for families with children.
Separately, it should be said about the island Elbe(Elba) where you can find beaches for every taste: sandy, pebble, and rocky. Elba, by the way, has its own small airport (Aeroporto dell "Elba). You can fly here from Pisa (see www.silverairitalia.it) and some other cities. The more traditional way to get to Elba is by ferry from Piombino. Piombino can be reached by train.
For more information on the beach resorts in Tuscany, see this article. By the way, all of the above places can be reached via Florence (Aeroporto di Firenze-Peretola, FLR). Nevertheless, Pisa is closer and flying to Pisa (at least from Russia) is more convenient and cheaper than to Florence.
- General information: about Pisa, about Florence
- Flights: to Pisa, to Florence
- Transfers:,
- Car rental locations: at Pisa airport, at Florence airport
The outskirts of Rome are also not deprived of beach resorts (the beaches here are often sandy). For example, literally a few minutes' drive from Rome's Fiumicino airport (Aeroporto di Roma – Fiumicino Leonardo da Vinci, FCO) there is a resort town Lido di Ostia(Lido di Ostia)... From the point of view of logistics, nothing can be imagined better (you can get here from the airport by the Cotral bus), but from the point of view of the quality of rest, there are options that are much more interesting.
If you focus on the immediate vicinity of the Italian capital, then you should pay attention to Anzio(Anzio) and Nettuno(Nettuno)... It is convenient to get from Rome to these resorts by rail - it takes about an hour.
But, perhaps, the most interesting beach resorts are located to the south. This is, first of all, San Felice Circeo(San Felice Circeo), Terracina(Terracina), Sperlonga(Sperlonga) and Gaeta(Gaeta)... However, it is not as convenient to get to these places by public transport as to Anzio and Nettuno. Therefore, in addition, we also mention Formia(Formia): There are beaches here and you can get from Rome by direct train. In addition, from the Formia railway station, you can easily take a taxi or a bus to the same Gaeta - it takes about 15 minutes.
Concerning Sorrento(Sorrento), then directly in the city and there are almost no beaches as such. One of the few lucky exceptions is the La Tonnarella hotel with access to a small private beach (small pebbles). However, Sorrento is conveniently accessible from Naples (eg by train on the Circumvesuviana railway - see www.eavsrl.it). In terms of beach holidays in Sorrento, it makes sense to target places like Meta(Meta) and Marina di Puolo(Marina di Puolo).
On the Amalfi coast, with the beaches, things are better - you can swim and sunbathe as in the mentioned Amalfi(Amalfi) and Positano(Positano), and in other towns - Praiano(Praiano), Majori(Maiori), Minori(Minori) etc. The beaches are pebbly, small and very picturesque. You can get from Naples to Amalfitana by bus (see www.sitasudtrasporti.it) directly or with a change in Salerno (first by rail, and then again by bus).
South of Salerno, you can pay attention to Paestum(Paestum), Agropoli(Agropoli) and Marina di Ashea(Marina di Ascea)... The beaches are sandy, the prices are affordable, but the resort infrastructure (in Ashe, for example) is often not very well developed. But it is convenient to get from Naples - an hour and a half by train. It is not so convenient to get to places like Santa Maria di Castellabate(Santa Maria di Castellabate) and Cape Palinuro(Capo Palinuro)... However, they also deserve a mention, and if you are traveling by car, then take a closer look at them.
One of the most interesting places in the vicinity of Naples in terms of beach recreation is the island Ischia(Ischia)... There are many beaches in Ischia, and in addition to them there are thermal springs. You can get there by ferry.
It is worth bearing in mind in particular an airport Lamezia Terme(Aeroporto di Lamezia Terme, SUF)... To the north of it is, for example, Amantea(Amantea), and to the south - Tropea(Tropea) with their wonderful sandy beaches. This is Calabria - the region is far from the richest, but the sea and beaches are excellent here. It should be noted that many resorts in Calabria, including Amantea and Tropea, can be easily reached by rail from Naples, or even from Rome (although, of course, it is not close and takes a long time to go). Another Calabria airport is located in Reggio Calabria(Reggio Calabria, Aeroporto dello Stretto, REG)... Nearby, we note such a resort as Shilla(Scilla).
Don't lose sight of Puglia too. You can navigate here by the region Salento(Salento)- "the heel of Italy" - in general, and places like Galipoli(Galipoli), Otranto(Otranto) and their immediate surroundings, in particular. The region is also of interest Gargano(Gargano)- "spur of the Italian boot". And even in Bari(Bari) and Brindisi(Brindisi) where the main local airports are located (Aeroporto di Bari-Palese, BRI, and Aeroporto di Brindisi-Casale, BDS), beach destinations can be found.
Venice is a city of fabulous beauty, but since there are more tourists here (especially from April to October) than locals, and it is almost impossible to move around the historic center during this period, feeling all the charm of the city is not an easy task. The Venetians working in tourist spots also get tired of wild crowds, wring up prices in bars and restaurants, do not miss their profit in hotels and do not really stand on ceremony at all. Just because, as they say in the local dialect, tanto i ven lo stes ( « they will come anyway» ). To see Venice in its best possible way, you need to prepare for the trip in advance and remember a few rules.
1. Pay € 120 for a gondola ride
Once gondolas were the main means of transportation along the canals of Venice, but now they are nothing more than an effective way to rip off tourists' money. In the afternoon, a 40-minute route will cost you at least € 120 (the gondola can accommodate up to six people), and after seven in the evening - even more expensive. Expect to pay extra for the gondolier to sing you a Neapolitan song like « O sole mio» which has nothing to do with Venice. However, if you turn a blind eye to the rats darting along the canals and kill off the unpleasant smell of stagnant water with something, a gondola ride in Venice can be romantic - at least until your gondolier starts rattling on his cell phone with boredom.
Save and Ride Channels for €****2-3
The Venetian Grand Canal can be crossed by a gondola, which serves as a ferry in places where there are no bridges, and is called « traghetto» ... It is larger, devoid of velvet cushions, is driven by two gondoliers and can be ferried to the other side in just a minute - you won't even be able to sit down. The most interesting routes are from Pesqueria (the fish market in the Rialto) to Santa Sofia and from Punta della Dogana to Piazza San Marco (pier next to Harry's Bar).
2. Do not save by settling on the mainland or Lido
Despite the fact that the uncomfortable industrial area of Mestre is officially part of Venice, this is not at all what you came here for. Hoteliers and travel agents often use this administrative trick to put you in one of the faceless hotels on the mainland; don't fall for it - only stay in the historic city center. By the way, the island of Lido, which separates the Venetian lagoon from the Adriatic Sea, is also not the best location: apart from the film festival in early September, nothing much happens here.
Better look for available options in the old town
There is no shortage of hotels in the historic center of Venice, especially during the low season. If you are not planning a trip for Easter and during the carnival, you can easily find a great room for a reasonable price. Travel to Venice in November or March. In the quiet months, even chic hotels with history and four stars like Gabrielli Sandwirth charge only € 110. To find an option for your chosen dates, go to the official website of AVA, the Association of Venice Hotels.
Canals of Venice.
3. Don't go to Harry's Bar
This bar for wealthy Americans who come to Venice for a cocktail opened in 1931 and eventually gave its name to the global brand. Undoubtedly, this cozy establishment in a palazzo on the Grand Canal, next to St. Mark's Cathedral, has a Vezetian charm and a dolce vita atmosphere. But today stereotypical Italian dishes like spaghetti and pesto are served here, while eating is cheaper than for € 100 per person will not work. If you are already in Harry's Bar, go straight to the counter - there at least you can take the Bellini cocktail invented here, for which, however, you will have to pay € 15 with a 15% mark-up (quite impudent for a country where it is customary to leave 5% for tea).
Just go where the locals go
Venetians themselves prefer to sit in, say, Taverna del Campiello Remer, a charming brick-walled eatery in the square by the Grand Canal (Campiello del Remer, Cannaregio; 39-41-522-8789). From 5:30 to 7:30, cocktails are no more expensive there €5 and for lunch you can have some of the local dishes (for example, pasta or fish) at a very reasonable price. If you walk towards the train station from Campo San Bartolomeo (the area north of the Rialto Bridge), and after a couple of minutes turn left along the narrow street to the Grand Canal, then you will get where you need to.
Cozy cafes in Venice.
4. Don't agree to go on a "free" tour of Murano
If the receptionist of your hotel praises you the delights of a trip to the island of Murano, where the famous glass is produced, be prepared that a taxi driver with a meter turned on is already at the door - and you will have to pay by the meter. All these « free» tours always follow the same scenario: you are taken to a factory where glass is blown (admittedly, the spectacle is really impressive), but then literally under the handles you are led to the place where this glass is sold - and there are at least two vases and candelabra on the price tags, otherwise and three zeros. If you don't like anything, then « tour guides» they will not be left behind and will be taken to another, cheaper store, where they will try to slip a glass necklace, a clown figurine or other trinket at a clearly inflated price.
Go to Murano on your own instead
The most convenient way to get to the glass factory is to walk to the Fondamenta Nove stop on the north bank and take the river tram (route 41/42); boats also leave from the San Zaccaria pier (next to St. Mark's Cathedral) and from the train station. The most famous factories are Berengo Fine Arts (not only a factory, but also a gallery) and Archimede Seguso, famous for its openwork vases (call in advance to confirm your visit). If you want to see the real production process, try one of the guided tours of the local Museo del Vetro, which includes a 45-minute tour of the exhibit and a half-hour glassblowing demonstration.
Murano Island, Venice.
5. Don't go where your eyes are
Walking with the crowd in Venice is not a good idea. The flow of people always moves along the same route: from the station to the Rialto Bridge along the main tourist street Strada Nova, and then rushes to St. Mark's Square through the shopping district with expensive food, not too good cappuccino, stupid souvenirs and nightmarish carnival masks ...
And as soon as you try to turn off the beaten track into the first lane that comes along, you are most likely to find yourself in one of the many Venetian dead ends, the interweaving of which will instantly knock your inner compass. And don't count on GPS help: Venice is poorly mapped, and mobile communications are also so-so here.
Be sure to buy a good card
In order not to hustle in the crowd and not get lost in the alleyways, get a proven (and most importantly, waterproof) card. With it you can get to the northern part of Cannaregio, where there are few people and shops, but there is the Madonna dell "Orto church with works by Tintoretto and a great view from the promenade to the lagoon and the island of Murano. Or cross the Ponte dei Scalzi in Santa Croce, one of the most authentic Venetian neighborhoods, along the southern, less crowded route to the Rialto.
Halfway through the enchanting Campo San Giacomo dall "Orio, children play in the shadow of a 13th century church. Grab a bite to eat at one of the city's best pizzerias, Il Réfolo (1459 Campiello del Piovan, Santa Croce; 39-41-524-0016 ), discovered by the son of the owner of the Michelin-starred establishment Da Fiore.
A girl holding a map of Venice.
6. Don't come to Venice in summer
The heat in Venice is hard to endure due to high humidity and mosquitoes. In the summer, residents of the city turn on the savings mode and curtail all activity - only the most important tourist centers function. But for some reason, foreigners think that since summer is good in Tuscany, then Venice will be good too.
The peak of the tourist pilgrimage falls on June-July, in the stifling August the flow, if it thins, is not much. For odd years (2017, 2019, 2021 ...) from June to November, the city hosts the Venice Biennale - and this at least partially justifies the dense crowd. But apart from the Biennale in the summer in Venice, nothing interesting in terms of culture happens - the season of concerts and important exhibitions opens in September-October.
Better plan your trip in late autumn or early spring
In November, when dampness is spread in the air and underfoot, Venice with its canals and magnificent architecture appears in its true light, opening from a new side. The locals breathe a sigh of relief (finally, the city belongs only to them) and every evening, starting at seven, they drink spritz and prosecco on the embankments - try to join them. Most of the drinking establishments are concentrated in the Rialto market area, where bars (for example, Naranzaria or Al Mercà) are crowded even at sub-zero temperatures (213 Campo Cesare Battisti, San Polo; 39-347-100-2583).
7. Don't go to Piazza San Marco with the crowd
There is no doubt that Piazza San Marco, which Napoleon once called « living room of Europe» , shocks everyone who sees her, and the pigeons have absolutely nothing to do with it. And all tourists consider it their duty to fulfill the "must-have program": together with a huge crowd, they enter the cathedral and try to see the poorly lit mosaics, then walk around the Doge's Palace with its richly painted frescoes, take the elevator to the cathedral tower to take photos in the spirit of Google Earth and finally, deadly tired, wander for a saving cup of cappuccino in one of the historic cafes of the square, Florian "s or Quadri" s, which went down in history, among other things, for their crazy prices.
Come to the square early in the morning instead
Try to get up early and come to the Cathedral of San Marco for morning mass - in this case, you will be able to feel the extraordinary atmosphere of this place, which is completely lost in the afternoon when the cathedral is flooded with crowds of tourists. Few people guess about it, but one of the most interesting objects of the square is the Clock Tower (Torre dell "Orologio), towering on the north side of San Marco. Book a special guided tour (this can be done the day before the visit) and enjoy the magnificent creation of the era Renaissance.
You will see the restored internal clockwork from 1497 and bronze figures that beat off the clock by striking the bell hourly with hammers. In addition, the tower offers a fabulous view of Piazza San Marco, the cathedral, the Doge's Palace and the lagoon. The ticket price ( € 15) also includes a visit to the Correr Museum and the Museum of Architecture on the opposite side of the square.
8. Don't plan a shopping tour
If you are in need of designer clothing, west of Piazza San Marco, on Salizzada San Moisè and Calle Larga XXII Marzo, you will find Prada, Gucci and Dolce & Gabbana boutiques. European stocks like Zara and Benetton (the latter is owned by a family from Treviso, which also owns the Hotel Monaco & Grand Canal) are also in Venice, but why waste time shopping in a city that is famous for something completely different? For clothes you have to go to Milan, Rome or Florence: there is more choice and more serious discounts.
Better explore local handicraft and antique shops
Venice has a lot of art galleries and shops selling antiques and all kinds of handmade interior items; in addition, the city is famous for weaving factories (Fortuny, Bevilacqua, Gaggio), producing silk and velvet - if you love all sorts of unusual home accessories, do design and at the same time you have money for it, this is the place for you.
9. Don't buy concert tickets from people in wigs
On the streets of Venice, you will surely meet men and women in wigs, dressed in historical costumes of the 18th century - they sell tickets for « Four Seasons» Vivaldi. You should only give in to their persuasion if your weakness is powdered wigs, painted flies and deep necklines (this is how the orchestra's musicians, most of whom are girls, will be dressed). The musicians play quite professionally (mostly students of the conservatory who want to earn extra money from tourists), but if you like classical music more than carnival surroundings, then it's better ...