Must-do activities in Venice in a few days
Venice is best explored on foot. While certain landmarks are essential to your visit, don’t hesitate to stray as far as possible from St. Mark’s Square and lose yourself in the maze of Venetian alleys. It’s in these less-trodden paths that you’ll encounter Venetians and find the best restaurants.
We were warned: “Beware, Venice with a stroller is a hassle.” And indeed, it’s not practical. There are bridges everywhere—really everywhere! The best option is a baby carrier if possible; otherwise, like us, you’ll have to use a stroller and some muscle to lift it up the stairs! However, the Venetians are lovely and you’ll always find someone willing to help if needed.
Piazza San Marco
We start our visit at Piazza San Marco, and what a splendor it is! Of course, you won’t be alone; the crowd can be dense, but it’s impossible not to be charmed by this square surrounded by cafes and luxury shops. From the Piazza, you can take a gondola ride for 80 euros. Yes, it’s expensive, but it’s so beautiful and enjoyable that we didn’t regret the high price.
Basilica di San Marco
From Piazza San Marco, you can access the basilica, which is equally sublime with its 4,000 square meters of mosaics. Be sure to climb up to the gallery for a magnificent view of the square, surrounded by the Horses of Saint Mark. Unfortunately, capturing the beauty of the interior is impossible as photos are prohibited inside.
For an even more spectacular view, climb to the top of the Campanile, and then head over to visit the Doge’s Palace!
Access with a stroller here is also quite impractical, but with patience, it can be managed!
The Palazzo Ducale
The palace is a maze of rooms, each more beautiful than the last. Richly decorated, you will discover the largest canvas in the world in the Hall of the Great Council. Be sure to visit the basement where the prisons are located, with their tiny cells. Some of these cells are on the other side, so prisoners used to cross the Bridge of Sighs. You can get a good view of this bridge during your gondola ride as you will pass underneath it!
