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Honeymooning in Venice can look like a scene straight out of a story book. This stunning collection of islands nestled atop the Venetian Lagoon is magical in its history, culture, and beauty. Across the six boroughs of Venice are tons of attractions, restaurants, shops and museums that are yours for the taking with this three day honeymoon itinerary to help guide your time in the City of Water.
Day 1
Morning:
Waking up in Venice should be done slowly, which is the general (and much welcomed post-wedding!) overall tempo of the city. Savor the sunrise over the twinkling waters, the sounds of this maritime city gearing up for the day, and then hit the pavement! Head to the closest café you can find for an espresso or for those truly in vacation mode, un caffé correcto (espresso with a shot of liquor, we suggest grapa). Then, simply explore for a few hours and soak in the sights and shops.
Afternoon:
It’s time to be a tourist. Head to the famous Doges’ Palace, a gothic style landmark that was at the heart of Venetian government for centuries. Take a tour of the interior (book ahead for a skip-the-line tour) and be sure to marvel at the Sala del Maggior Consiglio, as well as the Ponte dei Sospiri, a.k.a. the Bridge of Sighs. For lunch, head to Il Ridotto, a cozy, seafood-oriented restaurant with delicious lunch options including chichetti, tapas-style Italian appetizers.
Evening:
Head to the famed Harry’s Bar (of Cipriani’s) on the Grand Canal for an apperitivo or their famed Bellini (or two) and experience a dream-like sunset. From there, head to the Campo del Ghetto — very popular for tourists and locals alike, there are tons of phenomenal restaurants and an abundance of bars in this unique neighborhood.
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Day 2
Morning:
You’ll want to eat lite this morning in preparation for a food-filled afternoon, but a croissant or small pastry should hit the spot. Stroll on over, or hop aboard the Vaparetto (Venice public transportation) to the Galleria dell’Accademia and witness incredible Venetian art spanning the 13th to 18th centuries.
Afternoon:
Book a Venetian food tour with Venice Bites — a spirited, super friendly husband and wife team (originally from Cali!) that takes small groups to the most authentic, local eateries the city has to offer. This four-hour walking tour is narrated with history, humor, and culture as you get to wine and dine at places you otherwise may have passed over in your exploration. End the tour with a Campari spritz overlooking the Grand Canal, and head back to the hotel for a rest. (Both you, and your bellies will need it!)
Evening:
Experience a bit of local culture and talent at “Venezia: The Show of Venice,” performed at the Teatro San Gallo. With in-ear audio translation for seven languages, this spirited show portrays history and the art of storytelling. Opera enthusiasts can also check out performances at the Teatro la Fenice, home to operas, concerts, and ballets.
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Day 3
Morning & Afternoon:
With one day left to see the sights, spend your morning and afternoon exploring St. Mark’s Square, the Rialto Bridge, and of course, shopping. Luxury lovers be sure to check out the impressive lineup of shoppes near St. Mark’s. (If you’re planning any big purchases, be certain to have your passport handy for tax purposes.) For lunch, opt for some tramezzini (traditional Italian white bread sandwiches) or a Panini from a local café. Complete your afternoon with some gelato at Il Dodge Gelateria for some of the best handmade gelato in Venice — we love the pistachio or straciatella — chocolate chip. And remember, whatever you do, don’t feed the pigeons!
Evening:
For some of the best Venetian pastas and entrees, enjoy your last meal in Venice at Due Colonne. With wood oven pizzas, delectable linguine with lobster, and house wine that goes down like water, it will be a meal to remember. Then, save the best for last! Take a twilight Gondola ride with your new husband, and enjoy the views of Venice the way it is meant to be seen — from the gorgeous Grand Canal. (You can bring wine and snacks along for the ride, too — for the perfect nightcap.) Savor every second of this romantic joyride — and yes, some gondoliers really do sing!