Venice is surreal to say the least! It’s hard to imagine that the Grand Canal is just a normal high street in any other city. Transporting commuters from one part to the next, or making important deliveries of foodstuffs, or building materials. Then multiply this by 150 canals and it gives you a sense of the amount of traffic and activity that takes place on the water in Venice every day. If Venice was a woman, my husband would be in love with her. Not only is it the most romantic city in the world but it is extremely family-friendly, children love to explore its mystery and delights.
For those who don’t know, Venice is built on more than 100 small islands and has no roads. It is lined with Renaissance and Gothic palaces. Its most famous landmarks are found close to the central square of Piazza San Marco, containing St. Mark’s Basilica and the Campanile bell tower. Within walking distance you will find Doges Palace, the Bridge of Sighs and Rialto Bridge.
Why is Venice a great destination for families with kids?
Kids love Venice primarily because of the way you arrive in Venice – by Vaporetto, there is no better way to view Venice than from the water and it will take your breath away. Once you get your feet on the ground kids love exploring the nooks and crannies of this magical island. It only takes an hour to walk from one end of Venice to the other (perfect for little legs!), with almost all of your key sights within 20-minutes from the Rialto Bridge and St Mark’s Square.
How many days should you spend in Venice?
Many families either start or end their vacation in Venice (and usually add on Tuscany, Florence, and Rome). If Venice is the start of your vacation, then I would suggest 3 nights. Find your feet and get acclimatised on the first day, and then spend two more days enjoying all the sights. If Venice is your last stop on your vacation, then I would suggest two nights (but try and get there early in the morning). If you can afford to take another day, then take it, and you will never regret it. If you choose Venice, as your base, for more that 3 days then you will have the opportunity to visit Padua, Verona and maybe Lake Garda
Venice really only needs a couple of days to cover the major sites, but for those who want to explore the other islands like Murano and Burano or add on a beach day in Lido di Jesolo then add on another day.
Must-see places in Venice
Venice has at least 10 top rated attractions that one should see and although what you choose out of these is down to personal choice you will want to see the following:
- Piazza San Marco
- Doge’s Palace
- St Mark’s Basillica
- Palazzo Ducale
- Bridge of Sighs
- Grand Canal
- Rialto Bridge
- Ca’ d’Oro
- Murano/Burano
- Peggy Guggenheim Museum
Top 10 things to do in Venice with kids
- Treasure Hunt of St Marks Cathedral
- Treasure Hunt of Doge’s Palace
- Venetian Rowing Lesson
- Venice Food Tour
- Gondola Ride
- Murano Glass Blowing Tour
- Island Tour of Murano, Burano and Torcello
- Mask making
- Venice Lion Hunt Tour for Kids
- Enjoy the Lido (beach)
Best Family friendly hotels in Venice
Looking for a Family friendly hotel in Venice? Here are our choices based on those we have visited and feedback from our clients.
Hotel L’Orologio Venice
Original and modern, overlooking the Canal Grande/ Hotel L’Orologio is a magical place, ideal for surrounding yourself in the atmosphere and history of the city without foregoing all the mod cons.
Hotel Excelsior
On the beach in Venice… only one hotel can boast this unique distinction. Hotel Excelsior at Venice Lido provides five-star exclusivity with laid-back serenity. The Hotel Excelsior and Venice Lido annually hosts the world-famous Film Festival and continues to attract A-list celebrities all year round.
Hotel Londra Palace
The opulent Hotel Londra Palace, is wonderfully located in the heart of the city and has called itself “creators of dreams since 1853.” Decorated with original furnishings and fabric-colored walls, and with more than 100 windows facing the lagoon, this hotel offers fabulous views and old-world romance combined with contemporary comfort. Also enjoy the hotel’s attentive service, excellent restaurant, and chic piano bar.
Ca’Sagredo Hotel
Set in a 15th-century palazzo, wonderfully located on the Grand Canal. and just a 15-minute walk from the Rialto Bridge. Ca’ Sagredo preserves its noble history with its 42 rooms, adorned by priceless antiques, stunning frescoes, and beautiful works of art. Enjoy the hotel’s gourmet restaurant, its water-view terrace, and attentive service.
The Gritti Palace
Overlooking the Grand Canal in the heart of Venice, The Gritti Palace boasts one of the most enthralling views of the lagoon city – from the island of San Giorgio Maggiore, past landmarks Punta della Dogana and Santa Maria della Salute Basilica to the Peggy Guggenheim Collection. Dating to 1475, this noble palace and luxury hotel is a place of exceptional art and elegance, that has retained its reassuringly intimate and familiar feel of a private residence.
Best Family friendly restaurants in Venice
Around San Marco’s Square
The Gritti Terrace or Club Del Doge at Gritti Palace Hotel – a fresh tribute to the timeless wonders of Venetian cuisine. Local epicurean delights will tantalize your senses and leave you with lasting memories. Campo Santa Maria del Giglio 2467, Venice 30124
Canova at Baglioni Hotel – brings traditional Italian flavours to life in a modern interpretation. San Marco, 1243, 30124 Venezia VE
La Porta d’Acqua – Riva del Vin, 1097 – 30125 Venezia VE
Da Ivo – a short walk from St Mark’s square Da Ivo has been frequented by celebrities for years. It serves superb cuisine in an excleltn atmosphere over looing the canal. San Marco, 1809, 30124 Venezia VE
Elsewhere
Ai Mercanti – high-level cuisine, at prices that will not leave you feeling fleeced. Closed Sunday
Osteria di Santa Marina – north of Rialto, creative Venetian cuisine but nothing fancy. Closed Sunday and Monday Lunch
Al Portego – close to Rialto. Great little osteria if you are looking for a proper Venetian experience. Barbara there are only a handful of tables so you will probably have to book. This place is great for cicchetti (I presume you know what that is?!)
Muro (San Stae) – Our kids loved it as it was quite relaxed and had lots of options. A nice little place next to Al Ponte Mocenigo, just around the corner
Venice is the most beautiful city in the world, the water will captivate you, the voices of the singing gondoliers will delight you and its beauty will capture your heart. Don’t miss it! So, if you are planning a vacation to Venice and you need some help then drop us a line. We’ll set up a time to call you and let you know how we might help.
Still unsure on whether you should stay in Venice and what there is to do for the family? Here are some articles and resources that will help you….
What to do in Venice for families
Any family trip to Venice should include at least the first 5 of the following: Piazza San Marco – St Mark’s Square is the central point of the city, the place all tourists arrive at some point during their stay in Venice and is lined with beautiful outdoor cafes and restaurants and stores beneath the …