Este(Italy) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

For prime location and luxury, Hotel Danieli and Gritti Palace stand out just steps from St. Mark’s Square. Both offer elegant rooms with canal views, personalized service, and access to exclusive rooftop terraces. Guests enjoy complimentary breakfasts featuring local pastries and espresso, plus private gondola transfers. Their proximity to Basilica di San Marco, Doge’s Palace, and Rialto Bridge makes them ideal for travelers seeking convenience and charm in historic Venice.

The Cannaregio District offers an authentic, less touristy experience while remaining well-connected. It’s a short walk to St. Mark’s Square and home to charming canals, local markets like Rialto Market, and family-run trattorias serving fresh seafood. This area balances accessibility with quiet charm, perfect for those wanting to immerse in Venetian daily life without the crowds. Many boutique hotels here also provide free bicycles for exploring nearby islands.

Immerse yourself in Venetian Carnival traditions by attending a mask-making workshop at Sartoria de Maschere near Piazza San Marco. Learn to craft traditional Carnival masks using centuries-old techniques. Alternatively, book a gondola ride at sunset, where your rower will sing classic barcarolle songs as you glide past illuminated palaces. For a deeper dive, join a private tour of the Doge’s Palace with a historian who reveals secrets of the Republic’s political intrigue.

Head to Osteria Bancari for a true taste of Venetian tradition. This century-old eatery specializes in risotto al nero di seppia (squid ink risotto) and freshly caught seafood. Try cicchetti—small bites like sarde in saor (sweet-and-sour sardines)—at Cantina Do Spade, where Prosecco flows freely. For breakfast, visit Fratelli Fabbri for warm brioche con marmellata, a beloved local favorite served with house-made jam.

Visit major attractions early in the morning—St. Mark’s Basilica opens at 9 AM, but arriving by 8:30 AM ensures fewer visitors. Book tickets online in advance for Doge’s Palace and La Fenice Theatre. Use the Vaporetto Line 1 to bypass crowded streets. Avoid the central square between 12 PM and 3 PM. Instead, explore quieter neighborhoods like Castello or take a day trip to Murano Island for glassblowing demonstrations away from the crowds.

Yes, Hotel Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo offers spacious family suites, children’s activities, and a garden courtyard. The hotel hosts guided gondola rides for kids and mask-making workshops tailored for younger guests. They also provide high chairs, baby cots, and kid-friendly menus. With direct access to Rialto Market and Museo Correr, it’s a great base for families seeking both fun and cultural immersion in Venice.

Don’t miss St. Mark’s Basilica, a stunning fusion of Byzantine and Gothic architecture with golden mosaics. Nearby, Piazza San Marco—the heart of Venice—is lined with cafes and street performers. Cross the Ponte di Rialto, the oldest bridge over the Grand Canal, bustling with shops and artisans. At dusk, watch the sun paint the water gold—perfect for photography and unforgettable memories.

Walk or use the vaporetto (water bus), which runs frequently across the city’s canals. For a romantic touch, reserve a private gondola for a scenic ride along the Grand Canal. Electric scooters are available in some districts. Note that cars are banned in the historic center; most hotels offer luggage transfer services via boat. Always check tide times—high water can flood low-lying areas like Campo San Barnaba.

The best time to visit Venice is April to June and September to October, when temperatures range from 18°C to 24°C (64°F to 75°F). These months offer sunny days, lower humidity, and fewer tourists. Spring brings blooming gardens and vibrant festivals like Festa della Sensa, while autumn provides crisp air and golden light perfect for photography. Avoid July and August due to extreme heat and peak crowds.

Pack light, breathable clothing, a waterproof jacket, and comfortable walking shoes—many streets are cobblestone. Bring a compact umbrella and waterproof footwear if visiting during rainy season (October–December). Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle. For cultural visits, modest attire is recommended for churches. A small backpack is ideal for carrying snacks, maps, and souvenirs while exploring on foot.