April is one of the best times to visit Venice. The weather is mild, the crowds are manageable, and the city comes alive with a variety of events and activities. I’ll share some of the top things to do in Venice in April and also recommend a few charming nearby towns and cities to explore. Let’s dive into the magic of Venice and its surroundings!

Exploring Venice: A City Like No Other

1. St. Mark’s Basilica and Piazza San Marco

No trip to Venice is complete without visiting St. Mark’s Basilica and the iconic Piazza San Marco. The basilica is an architectural masterpiece with its stunning mosaics and opulent interior. The square itself is perfect for people-watching and soaking in the Venetian atmosphere.

• Location: Piazza San Marco, 30100 Venice, Italy
• Opening Hours: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM (Check the website for seasonal variations)
• Ticket Price: €3 for access to the museum and upper floors
• Accommodation Tip: For a luxurious stay nearby, consider the Baglioni Hotel Luna, located just a stone’s throw away from the square.

2. Doge’s Palace

Adjacent to St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace is another must-visit landmark. This Gothic palace was the residence of the Doge of Venice and now houses a museum showcasing Venetian art and history.

• Location: Piazza San Marco, 1, 30124 Venice, Italy
• Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 7:00 PM
• Ticket Price: €25 (includes access to the Museo Correr, National Archaeological Museum, and Biblioteca Marciana)

3. Rialto Bridge and Market

The Rialto Bridge is one of Venice’s most famous landmarks. After admiring the view from the bridge, head to the nearby Rialto Market, where you can browse fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies.

• Location: Sestiere San Polo, 30125 Venice, Italy
• Market Hours: 7:30 AM – 1:00 PM (Closed Sundays)

4. Gondola Ride

A gondola ride through the canals of Venice is a quintessential experience. Although it can be pricey, it’s a unique way to see the city from a different perspective.

• Starting Points: Various locations, including near St. Mark’s Square and the Rialto Bridge
• Price: Approximately €80 for a 30-minute ride

5. Venetian Arsenal and Naval History Museum

The Venetian Arsenal is a historic shipyard and armory that played a crucial role in Venice’s maritime history. Nearby, the Naval History Museum offers fascinating exhibits on Venice’s naval prowess.

• Location: Riva S. Biasio Castello, 2148, 30122 Venice, Italy
• Opening Hours: 8:45 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed Sundays and Mondays)
• Ticket Price: €10

6. Peggy Guggenheim Collection

Art lovers should not miss the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, housed in the former residence of the American heiress. The museum features works by Picasso, Pollock, and other modern artists.

• Location: Dorsoduro, 701-704, 30123 Venice, Italy
• Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Closed Tuesdays)
• Ticket Price: €15

7. Murano and Burano Islands

Take a vaporetto (water bus) to the islands of Murano and Burano. Murano is famous for its glassmaking, while Burano is renowned for its colorful houses and intricate lacework.

• Location: North of Venice; accessible by vaporetto
• Vaporetto Routes: Line 12 from Fondamente Nove
• Recommended Duration: Half-day for each island
• Accommodation Tip: For a serene stay, consider the Hyatt Centric Murano Venice on Murano Island, offering luxurious amenities and easy access to the glass factories.

8. Gallerie dell’Accademia

Home to a rich collection of Venetian art, the Gallerie dell’Accademia is a must-visit for art enthusiasts. The museum showcases works by Bellini, Titian, and Tintoretto.

• Location: Campo della Carità, Dorsoduro, 1050, 30123 Venice, Italy
• Opening Hours: 8:15 AM – 7:15 PM (Closed Mondays)
• Ticket Price: €12

9. Scuola Grande di San Rocco

This beautiful building houses an impressive collection of paintings by Tintoretto. The grand halls and detailed artworks make it a highlight for art and history lovers.

• Location: Campo San Rocco, 3052, 30125 Venice, Italy
• Opening Hours: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
• Ticket Price: €10

10. Teatro La Fenice

Opera enthusiasts should not miss a performance at Teatro La Fenice, one of the most famous opera houses in the world. Even if you can’t catch a show, guided tours are available.

• Location: Campo San Fantin, 1965, 30124 Venice, Italy
• Opening Hours for Tours: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
• Tour Ticket Price: €10
• Accommodation Tip: Stay at The Gritti Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel, located nearby, which offers opulent rooms and a touch of Venetian history.

Venturing Beyond Venice: Nearby Towns and Cities

11. Padua

A short train ride from Venice, Padua is home to the University of Padua, one of the oldest universities in the world. The city boasts beautiful botanical gardens, the Scrovegni Chapel with frescoes by Giotto, and a vibrant cultural scene.

• Travel Tip: Trains to Padua depart frequently from Venezia Santa Lucia station.
• Accommodation Tip: Hotel Grand’Italia near Padua’s train station offers convenient access and comfortable rooms.

12. Verona

Known for its association with Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, Verona is a city of romance and history. Visit Juliet’s House, the ancient Roman Arena, and the charming Piazza delle Erbe.

• Travel Tip: Direct trains from Venice to Verona take about 1.5 hours.
• Accommodation Tip: Due Torri Hotel offers luxurious accommodations in the heart of Verona, close to major attractions.

13. Vicenza

Vicenza is famous for its Palladian architecture, particularly the Teatro Olimpico and the Basilica Palladiana. The city offers a quieter alternative to the hustle and bustle of Venice.

• Travel Tip: Trains from Venice to Vicenza are frequent and take about an hour.
• Accommodation Tip: Stay at the elegant Palazzo Otello 1847 Wellness & Spa for a relaxing experience.

14. Treviso

Often overlooked, Treviso is a charming town with picturesque canals, medieval architecture, and delicious Prosecco. It’s a great place to escape the crowds and enjoy a more laid-back atmosphere.

• Travel Tip: Treviso is just a 30-minute train ride from Venice.
• Accommodation Tip: Hotel Maggior Consiglio offers modern comforts in a historic setting.

15. Chioggia

Known as “Little Venice,” Chioggia features its own network of canals and bridges. The town has a bustling fish market, beautiful churches, and a relaxed vibe.

• Travel Tip: Chioggia is accessible by bus or ferry from Venice.
• Accommodation Tip: Stay at Hotel Grande Italia for stunning views and excellent service.

16. Bassano del Grappa

Famous for its wooden bridge, Ponte degli Alpini, and its grappa production, Bassano del Grappa is a delightful day trip from Venice. Explore its historic center and enjoy the local cuisine.

• Travel Tip: Reach Bassano del Grappa by train from Venice in about 1.5 hours.
• Accommodation Tip: Hotel Palladio offers cozy rooms and is well-located for exploring the town.

17. Asolo

A hilltop town with breathtaking views, Asolo is known for its Renaissance architecture and tranquil ambiance. It’s a haven for artists and writers seeking inspiration.

• Travel Tip: Asolo is best reached by car, about an hour’s drive from Venice.
• Accommodation Tip: Hotel Villa Cipriani provides luxury accommodations with stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

18. Cortina d’Ampezzo

For those who love the mountains, Cortina d’Ampezzo in the Dolomites is a perfect getaway. Enjoy skiing in winter or hiking in summer, along with stunning alpine scenery.

• Travel Tip: Cortina is accessible by bus or car from Venice.
• Accommodation Tip: Cristallo, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, offers an indulgent stay with breathtaking mountain views.

19. Prosecco Wine Region

The Prosecco wine region, located between Conegliano and Valdobbiadene, is a must-visit for wine lovers. Tour the vineyards, taste the local Prosecco, and enjoy the beautiful landscapes.

• Travel Tip: The region is best explored by car, about an hour’s drive from Venice.
• Accommodation Tip: Relais Duca di Dolle offers a charming stay amidst the vineyards.

20. Trieste

Located on the northeastern edge of Italy, Trieste boasts a rich cultural heritage and stunning coastal views. Visit Piazza Unità d’Italia, Miramare Castle, and the ancient Roman Theater.

• Travel Tip: Trains from Venice to Trieste take about two hours.
• Accommodation Tip: Savoia Excelsior Palace provides elegant accommodations with views of the Gulf of Trieste.

21. Ravenna

Known for its well-preserved late Roman and Byzantine architecture, Ravenna is home to stunning mosaics and eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

• Travel Tip: Reach Ravenna by train from Venice in about 2.5 hours.
• Accommodation Tip: Palazzo Bezzi Hotel offers a luxurious stay near the city’s main attractions.

Accommodation Tips for Venice

During my numerous visits to Venice, I’ve had the pleasure of staying in various hotels, each offering unique experiences. Here are my top recommendations:

Hotel Danieli, a Luxury Collection Hotel

• Location: Riva degli Schiavoni, 4196, 30122 Venice, Italy
• Ambiance: Historical grandeur with lavish interiors and stunning views of the Venetian Lagoon.
• Amenities: Rooftop restaurant, luxurious rooms, and exceptional service.
• Price: From €400 per night
• Booking Platform: Great Value Vacations

Aman Venice

• Location: Palazzo Papadopoli, Calle Tiepolo Baiamonte,
• 1364, 30125 Venice, Italy
• Ambiance: A blend of historical elegance and contemporary luxury, set in a 16th-century palazzo.
• Amenities: Spa, private gardens, and fine dining.
• Price: From €900 per night
• Booking Platform: Great Value Vacations

The St. Regis Venice

• Location: San Marco, 2159, 30124 Venice, Italy
• Ambiance: Modern sophistication with a focus on personalized service and artistic flair.
• Amenities: Waterfront dining, luxurious suites, and a serene garden.
• Price: From €700 per night
• Booking Platform: Great Value Vacations

Getting to Your Hotel from the Airport

From Marco Polo Airport

1. Water Taxi: The most luxurious and convenient option. It takes you directly to your hotel’s private dock.
2. Alilaguna Water Bus: A more affordable choice, with stops near major hotels and landmarks.
3. Land Taxi and Vaporetto: Take a taxi to Piazzale Roma, then a vaporetto to your hotel.

From Santa Lucia Train Station

1. Water Taxi: Direct and convenient, ideal if you have a lot of luggage.
2. Vaporetto: A budget-friendly option with various lines serving different parts of the city.

Final Thoughts

April is a magical time to visit Venice. The weather is perfect, the crowds are lighter, and the city is bursting with activities and events. Whether you’re exploring the canals, visiting nearby towns, or indulging in luxurious accommodations, Venice offers an unforgettable experience. And with the convenience of booking through platforms like Great Value Vacations, planning your dream Venetian getaway has never been easier.

So pack your bags, book your stay, and get ready to fall in love with Venice this April. From its enchanting canals to its hidden gems and nearby treasures, Venice promises a journey you’ll cherish forever.