"Return To Venice" Venice by AnnS

Venice Travel Guide: 8,142 reviews and 21,399 photos

A Little Apprehensive

I first visited Venice in February 2001 and had the best week imaginable. The weather was glorious, I was in wonderful company and the trip just couldn't have been any better.

So for this reason, although I wanted to go back to see more, I was apprehensive because I knew I couldn't better my previous visit and was worried that it would be a disappointment. And perhaps I wouldn't have risked it, had a friend not requested that I take her there. She'd never been and chose it as the venue for our annual December trip together.

Unpackaged Was Best

Last time I went, I wasn't such a seasoned traveller and settled for the safe option of a package trip. This time, however, I suspected we'd fare better unpackaged as we each wanted our own room and tour operators always stick on hefty supplements for single rooms. Also, we could take advantage of a low-cost flight from our local airport.

So I embarked on one of my Internet 'projects' and found rooms in a wonderful hotel for £65 a night each, including breakfast, and EasyJet return flights for £45 each from London Gatwick. In total, we paid £240 each for 4 days/3 nights, which I thought was very good indeed.

Bad Weather Held Off

San Marco Waterfront

The forecast before we left was awful, with rain expected every day of our trip. I know that's always the risk you take for travelling in winter but I've been very lucky in the past and didn't want my friend's first visit to Venice marred by horrible weather. However, although it was mostly grey and threatening, the heavy rain didn't arrive until about an hour before we left so we managed to do plenty of sightseeing. Also, occasional fog and dull skies made for very atmospheric photographs.

Actually I love Venice in winter, without the crowds and without the canal smells that other people have reported. There were no queues for the sights, we easily got seats on the Vaparetti and very much enjoyed seeing Venice as the Venetians see it.

Pros and Cons

Pros:The whole city is like a giant film set
Cons:Unpredictable weather
In a nutshell:Surreal and wonderful

Last visit to Venice: Dec 2006
Intro Updated Jan 28, 2007
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Reviews (9)

A Peaceful Walk Things to Do (3)

The Cannaregio district of Venice is a nice area for a walk when you've had enough of the hustle and bustle of the main... more travel advice

Treasures in San Marco Basilica Things to Do (3)

The San Marco Basilica is on the 'must see' list of anyone who visits Venice. However, whilst the Basilica itself is... more travel advice

Secret Itinerary Tour Things to Do (3)

The Doge's Palace (Palazzo Ducale) is a magnificent building, packed full of treasures. The entrance fee is 12 euros.... more travel advice

Getting Around Transportation (2)

Undoubtedly the best way to see Venice is on foot and it's fun wandering around the tiny streets (and invariably getting... more travel advice

Comments (5)

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Maurizioago Jul 28, 2012 at 9:52 AM

I'm going to re visit Venice soon.

Ciao!
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Luchonda Feb 2, 2007 at 7:36 AM

Nice page - good comments and pictures Greetz
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christine.j Jan 31, 2007 at 11:11 AM

An excellent page! I hope I can go on the Doge's Palace tour.
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Hopkid Jan 10, 2007 at 7:00 PM

Great write-up on Antiche Figure! Nice job. I'll keep in mind for future visits!
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BlueBeth Dec 11, 2006 at 6:56 AM

What a lovely, helpful tip. I'll certainly bear this hotel in mind. Beth.