Part of the Aimé team, Emilia, recently took a city break to Venice, and shares her intel on the best places to explore, shop and eat in one of the most beautiful regions of Italy.
The Breakfast Spot
A very charming pasticceria, which is hidden away from the main tourist path. They offer an excellent array of freshly baked brioche (filled with crème pâtissière), crossiants filled with apricot jam, and Venetian tramezzini—soft white bread sandwiches stuffed with savory delights. Sit outside and and enjoy people-watching in Campo San Giovanni e Paolo, or stand at the bar for a quick bite on the go.
Rosa Salva, Campo SS. Giovanni e Paolo - Castello, 6779
Galleries
Venice is steeped in beautiful culture, and the Fortuny Museum is a must-see. The palace, built between 1460 and 1480, captivated Mariano Fortuny y Madrazo with its architectural beauty, inspiring him to undertake its restoration over several years. Each room is a masterpiece, adorned with luxurious textiles or covered in floor-to-ceiling frescoes. Every corner showcases art, antiques, and decor from Fortuny's personal collection.
Museum Fortuny, S. Marco, 3958, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy
Helmut Newton Legacy, Fondazione Le Stanze della Fotografia, Santa Marta, Fabbricato 17 30123 Venezia
The Peggy Guggenheim, Dorsoduro, 701, 30123 Venezia
Murano Glass
Venice is famous for its exquisite glass, produced on the island of Murano. Genuine Murano glass can be identified by its certificate of authenticity, and you’ll often find a rough spot on the bottom centre of the piece. The island is filled with shops displaying a wide range of glassware, including glasses, chandeliers, and small decorative items. Over on the island of San Giorgio Maggiore, there's a fantastic exhibition featuring Murano Glass from 1912 to 1930, on for the Biennale.
Le Stanze Del Vetro, Isola di San Giorgio Maggiore, 8, 30124 Venice VE, Italy
Where to Stay
I've had this hotel on my list for a while, and it did not disappoint. I love the playful, Art Deco-inspired interiors. With just 32 rooms, it has a charming boutique atmosphere. Each room is bright, elegant, and offers stunning views of the canal. We dined at the hotel, and both the food and service were exceptional. There's also a delightful courtyard garden at the back—perfect for unwinding with a cocktail and some cichetti.
Il Palazzo Experimental, Fondamenta Zattere Al Ponte Lungo, 1411, 30123 Venezia VE, Italy
The Islands
Venice is surrounded by over 100 small islands, and the Vaporetto — a convenient hop-on, hop-off water bus — is the perfect way to explore them. Running 24 hours a day, you can purchase daily or three-day tickets for unlimited access. Murano is a must-visit for stunning, original glassware, while Burano is famous for its joyful, colourful houses and intricate lace. San Giorgio Maggiore is also worth a stop, currently hosting several art exhibitions as part of the Biennale.
Vaporetto — Murano, Burano, San Giorgio Maggiore, and Giudecca
La Biennale
From 20th April to 24th November 2024, La Biennale di Venezia will host the festival themed "Stranieri Ovunque" or "Foreigners Everywhere." While events will take place across the city, the Giardini is the main place to be. Open Tuesday through to Sunday, the Giardini features over 88 installations from different countries. You can buy a single ticket that also grants you access to the Arsenale, or opt for multi-day tickets to fully explore the extensive offerings. The exhibition highlights artists who are foreigners, immigrants, expatriates, members of diasporas, émigrés, exiles, and refugees. It is a must see.
Giardini della Biennale, Calle Giazzo, 30122 Venezia VE, Italy
What To Pack
