Watch CBS News

Romantic Getaway Guide To Venice, Italy

Nothing says romance like a vacation to Venice, Italy. Everything about this city offers a romantic opportunity for those seeking to get away and add some spice to their love life. Imagine you and your loved one walking the streets of Venice hand-in-hand, then boarding a gondola for a soothing tour of the city's waterways. Sounds amazing, right? Right!

Photo Credit: PIERRE TEYSSOT/AFP/Getty Images

Romantic Accommodations

There are many hotels throughout Venice, however, staying at an apartment might be more romantic than in a hotel. Venice Apartments offer a variety of different apartments where couples can enjoy time together with all of the comforts of home. These apartments offer spacious accommodations that make it possible to enjoy a night in and have breakfast in the garden in the morning.

Staying in an apartment is just one option for those seeking romantic accommodations in Venice. Many of the hotels in the area are houses in historic buildings, in quaint areas of town and along the city's waterways, offering breathtaking views of the city. Some of the most romantic hotels in Venice include:

Bauer Il Palazzo

Bauer Palladio Hotel and Spa

Boscolo Venezia

Ca Maria Adele

Ca' Nigra Lagoon Resort

Hotel Londra Palace

Oltre Il Giardino Venezia

Palazzo Barbarigo

Ruzzini Palace

Related: Have a Romantic Vacation in San Francisco

Getting Around

Your romantic getaway will begin with a flight into the Marco Polo airport or you can take a chartered flight into Treviso. From there you can enjoy a ride along Venice's waterways or you can hop the train.

Because of the many waterways throughout Venice, one of the best ways to get around is by water. When arriving at the airport, hire a water taxi to take you to your accommodations. These taxis can seat up to six and many share these taxis with other couples they meet on the plane. Another great method of transportation from the airport is the ACTV motor launch. This watercraft departs hourly and goes to San Marco with stops at Murano and the Lido.

The train will also take you into the city from Mestre, traveling over the lagoon on a narrow causeway.

Photo Credit: Thinkstock

Romantic Dining

Restaurants throughout Venice become quite crowded, so do not be surprised if you find yourself sharing a table with strangers. This makes it almost impossible to enjoy the romantic dinner you were hoping for. Instead of heading to a crowded restaurant, seek out those that have an outdoor patio. During the summer, some restaurants have outdoor tables offering romantic views of the city and dining without the company of strangers.

If you are looking for a romantic restaurant in Venice, try dining at Linea d'Ombra or I Figli delle Stelle. Other romantic restaurants in Venice Italy include:

Romantic Activities

Couples visiting Venice will find a variety of romantic activities available. These activities include tours, attractions, gondola rides and other sightseeing adventures that will have them holding one another in their arms.

Enjoying a gondola ride is not a cheap adventure in Venice. However, if you are there seeing romance it is a must do activity at least once during your getaway. These rides will take you on a 40-minute journey through Venice and some even include a musician playing soft romantic melodies in the background. Plan your gondola ride during slower times on the water to avoid experiencing long delays during your relaxing ride.

Venice is rather quiet at night, making this time perfect for taking a stroll. Many of the area's churches and historic buildings, including St. Mark's Square, are beautifully lit up at night, offering the perfect backdrop to your romantic stroll through the city. Make plans to start your stroll just before sunset, when you can watch the beautiful pink skies from the park at Sant'Elena. (Definitely the perfect time and atmosphere to pop the question.)

Other romantic activities to enjoy while in Venice include:

Related: Most Romantic Sceneries Across America

If you are looking for a romantic getaway to Venice, Italy, one of the most important things you will need to remember is to try to get away from the touristy areas. This offers you the chance to enjoy a time away in some of the city's most secluded areas, which will boost the romantic feel of your getaway.

The final tip for your romantic vacation is to be patient and not worry if your itinerary changes mid-vacation. Make room to be spontaneous and seek out romantic opportunities in and throughout the city.

Heather Landon is a freelance writer with more than 20 years of experience. She has combined two of her passions - writing and travel - to share her experiences with others. You can read more of her articles at Examiner.com.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.