Is Venice Worth Visiting in 2026? Honest Pros, Cons & Travel Insights

Things to know about Venice

Where is Venice? 

 Venice is a city in northeastern Italy, part of the Veneto region. It’s made up of 100+ small islands in the Venetian Lagoon, connected by around 400 bridges and hundreds of canals. This unique setup gives the city its magical charm!!

Why is Venice famous?

Venice is one of the world’s most unique and romantic cities. It attracts millions of visitors each year and is known for being a top honeymoon destination.

There are so many reasons why Venice is famous and worth visiting – from its canals, bridges and gondolas to its carnivals and events. It feels like a fairytale city and has a timeless charm!

It’s also a city that’s bursting with history – there are so many landmarks in Venice. It’s one of the most beautiful cities in the world with its ornate and ancient architecture as well as its pretty maze of streets.

However, with that comes the crowds. Venice is one of the most visited cities in Italy and is known for struggling with overtourism. It also means that some people think it’s overrated… Especially if they don’t plan ahead.

Venice at a glance: 2026 snapshot

Pros of visiting Venice

1 Venice is unique & a city like no other

Venice is one of the world’s most unique cities, built on over 100 islands in the Venetian Lagoon. The canals, bridges, and narrow alleyways make it feel like a city suspended in time – it’s a real fairytale destination!

There aren’t many places that encapsulate romance like Venice does – it has a magic that has to be experienced.

With its history, Venetian culture and architecture, Venice is one-of-a-kind. It’s like an outdoor museum with majestic buildings, canals, bridges and picturesque alleyways. 

Insider tip: Early morning walks through Cannaregio are often almost empty, giving you a quiet, magical experience away from the crowds.

2 It’s picture-perfect

Venice is one of Italy’s most romantic destinations and is easily one of the prettiest places in the world.

Even with tourist numbers, you can’t overlook how photogenic the city is. In my opinion, that alone is one of the main reasons why Venice is worth visiting!

Whether you’re taking a gondola ride at sunset or wandering through quiet canals at dawn, Venice is endlessly pretty. 

Its architecture is the big draw with gorgeous sights scattered across the city. Just walking around this city you’ll be mesmerised by how beautiful it is.

The main spots like St. Mark’s Square, the Grand Canal and Rialto Bridge are all beautiful, but you’ll see so many gems throughout the city with quaint old buildings, winding narrow alleyways, and pretty canals and bridges.

Insider tip: The city is particularly magical during off-peak hours, when you get more opportunities for postcard-perfect moments. It’s well worth getting up early to enjoy it more to yourself!

3 There’s lots to explore

There’s so much to see and do in Venice. The entire city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which really says it all! 

Even though the main centre is compact and walkable, there are tons of things to tick off your Italy bucket list. 

If you’re anything like me, you’ll love simply walking around the city, taking in hidden gems and getting lost in the labyrinth of streets.

Famous landmarks include St Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace and the Bridge of Sighs. There are also fun and unique things to do in Venice if you want to get away from the crowds and off the beaten path.

There are also places outside of the city centre that are amazing to visit like the islands of Murano, Burano and Torcello. Torcello is much quieter than the rest of Venice so it’s perfect if you want some peace.

4 You can ride an authentic gondola

A gondola ride is an iconic way to explore Venice. It’s an experience that’s part of the history and tradition of Venice, so it’s an amazing one to tick off your list. It’s also something you won’t be able to do anywhere else in the world!

You can take private or shared gondola rides. There are also gondola rides where you can include extras like a narrated tour. You could also opt for a singing gondola if you want to be serenaded while you take in the scenery!

5 There’s incredible art, architecture & history

From St. Mark’s Basilica to the Doge’s Palace, Venice is overflowing with historic and artistic treasures. Wandering its squares and hidden museums, you’ll see centuries of architecture, sculptures, and paintings that tell the story of the city’s past.

All of Venice feels like a gallery, but there are also so many museums that are great to visit, too. 

Whatever you’re interested in, there’ll be something you love – there are loads of museums (like the Peggy Guggenheim Collection and Gallerie dell’Accademia) so you’ll never be bored! The Teatro La Fenice opera house is also worth a visit.

Insider tip: Many lesser-known museums (like Ca’ Rezzonico) are much quieter and just as good as the major sites.

6 Venice has a fascinating history

There’s so much history in Venice – you’ll see it everywhere. If you’re a history lover, Venice will be one of your favourite places. There’s so much to learn about this city!

St. Mark’s Basilica is one of the oldest buildings in Venice and was first built in 829 AD. The Bridge of Sighs also has a fascinating history – it’s where prisoners crossed to go to their cells.

This is a city that’s bursting with history – it seeps out of every corner. If you want to learn something new or find yourself lost in Venice’s past, this is an amazing city for you.

7 Venice is car-free

As more of a nature girl than a city lover, I’m absolutely here for cities that are pedestrianised.. so one of my favourite things about Venice is that it’s car-free!

If you visit, make sure you have comfy shoes because the only way to get around Venice is by boat or by foot.

It’s a really lovely setting for a wander without the traffic that other cities have. It doesn’t really even feel like a city – at least not in the traditional sense when you think of cities that are noisy, polluted and chaotic.

Venice is also a compact city so you can walk around the centre in a few hours, but you’ll definitely want longer to explore some of the less-known spots.

Venice is worth it in my opinion just for discovering new things. Getting lost is part of the joy – it’s so much fun to just wander, soak up the magic and find new places!

8 Venice is fun for shopping

There are lots more souvenir stalls and street vendors in Venice and shops selling inauthentic products – BUT, it’s not all like that. Across the city, there are TONS of places to go shopping. 

It’s a city with plenty of artisan and independent shops where you’ll find original and authentic items that you can’t get elsewhere. You’ll also find luxury Italian boutiques and amazing stores selling clothes and accessories.

9 Venice has great events

Venice has loads of events happening each year – from world-famous cultural exhibitions to regattas and jazz festivals.

There’s usually something going on in the city, but the main celebration is Venice Carnival. It’s held in February and is an incredible time to see Venetian costumes.

There are events happening across all of Venice at this time, as well as famous masquerade balls! It’s a magical time to visit.

10 Venice is heaven for foodies

Obviously, Italy is amazing for food lovers so Venice is too. As a popular destination, there are tourist traps to look out for, but if you know where to go (and you get off the beaten track), you’ll find so many brilliant restaurants and food options.

You’ll find that Venetian cuisine is a little different from other parts of Italy. Seafood is big in Venice, as is risotto. You’ll also find lots of cicchetti, which are similar to tapas, and you get them in Venetian bars.

The pasta at Dal Moro’s in Venice was amazing, too – as was all the gelato! Last time we visited, we went to Gelatoteca Suso which had some amazing vegan options.

Insider tip: Expect lunch to be around €15–25 in a local trattoria; gondola-side restaurants can be double that. Walking just a few streets off the main squares can save you money and crowds.

11 Venice is amazing for a luxury experience

If you’re splurging on a once-in-a-lifetime trip, Venice absolutely fits the bill. It’s one of the best luxury honeymoon destinations so it’s obviously one of my favourite places!!

Venice has some of the most amazing hotels on the planet with places that so many of the A list have stayed or married at. You can expect breathtaking, romantic rooms with sweeping canal views.

Venice also offers so many high-end options like private gondola rides, Michelin star dining and romantic experiences. If you want to go all out – this is an amazing place to do it!

12 Hidden gems exist in Venice

While Venice can feel crowded, there are plenty of peaceful corners and offbeat neighbourhoods where you can experience the city like a local. The eastern district of Castello, for example, is often overlooked by tourists, but it has narrow alleys and gardens that are perfect for a stroll.

Cannaregio is another local favourite with tranquil canals and the historic Jewish Ghetto.

I’ve written a full guide to the best non-touristy things to do in Venice which highlights secret viewpoints, hidden art spots, and other fun things you can do away from the crowds!

13 Venice is well-connected to other Italian cities

Venice is well connected. It’s a great base for exploring northeastern Italy and is easy to add a side trip to Verona, Milan or Florence.

I don’t recommend rushing your time in Venice, but if you do have extra time, it’s a brilliant city to start or end a dream Italy itinerary. 

Cons of visiting Venice

1 Venice can be expensive

Venice is one of Italy’s priciest destinations. Because of its desirability, and the limited space in the city, hotels can be expensive, especially in the high season.

Particularly if you want to stay in one of the super romantic hotels with canal views (like The Gritti Palace or St. Regis Venice), expect to pay upwards of £1,000+ per night.

If you don’t want to spend all day walking in Venice, you’ll also be spending a lot of cash on water buses (vaporetto) and water taxis. The costs are fixed for gondola rides, too –you’re looking at €90 for a 30-minute tour in the daytime. 

So, if you’re not sure if Venice is worth visiting because of the costs, it’s a good idea to set a budget and pre-book in advance to get the best deals. Think about your priorities and look into the things you definitely want to do while you’re there to plan accordingly.

2 Venice gets crowded

There’s no overlooking the fact that Venice is a popular destination. Around 20 million people visit Venice each year so its crowds are a huge downside! 

These swarms of tourists have taken away some of the authenticity and charm of the city. As a destination that’s struggling with overtourism, these visitor numbers are a massive problem. 

Cruises have played a big part in the problem – so much so that large ships were banned in 2021. The city also announced that it’s limiting the number of tourists, so now visitors need to register their stay in advance and day trippers have to pay a tourist tax.

However, I visited Venice in August 2024 and didn’t find it overly busy. So maybe things are already getting better, but it’s something to bear in mind!

Insider tip: Pre-book your tickets to the main attractions in advance so you can get skip-the-line entry. I use GetYourGuide for this.

3 Venice often floods

Flooding has always been a risk in Venice, but it’s definitely been getting worse.

In recent years, Venice has seen some of its worst flooding. With a city built on water (and with climate change), it’s not really a surprise… 

Acqua alta (high water) is still a risk in autumn and winter. The MOSE barriers have reduced impact, but some streets and squares can still flood. Waterproof shoes and planning ahead are essential!

4 Venice can be difficult for accessibility

If you have reduced mobility, Venice can be a difficult city to visit. There’s a lot of charm about Venice with its canals, old streets and bridges, but this makes it a harder place to visit for wheelchair users. I’ve also read that less than 25% of the accommodation in Venice is accessible.

The city has been taking steps to become more accessible so while it is still possible to visit Venice as a wheelchair user, it’s a trip that requires more forward planning.  

5 There are tourist traps in Venice

As one of the world’s most popular travel destinations, there are tourist traps in Venice. Whether that’s restaurants exploiting tourists with low-quality food at super high prices or shops selling inauthentic products and souvenirs.

On my most recent visit, I also noticed a lot more tacky souvenir stalls had popped up across the city.

Insider tip: Restaurants on major squares or along canals often charge a premium for the view. Avoid eating in the main tourist areas and seek out small local trattorias in side streets.

6 Short visits can miss the magic

I recommend having at least 3 days or more in Venice. Trying to see Venice in a single day can lead to a rushed experience. It’s often the people who do this that say it’s not worth it! 

To get the true magic of Venice you need to get off the beaten track which is harder to do if you’re limited on time or don’t plan ahead.

If you only have 24 hours in Venice, I’ve put together my 1-day Venice guide here so at least you can maximise your stay!

Who will love Venice (& who might not)

Venice is a dream destination for certain travellers, but it’s not perfect for everyone. I truly believe it’s a brilliant destination for couples and honeymooners – especially if you’re happy to splash out and make it the trip of a lifetime.

The city is so romantic and there are luxury hotels, private gondola rides and cosy restaurants that make it perfect for couples. I highly recommend booking a room with a water view and scheduling early-morning walks to enjoy the city’s magic before the crowds arrive!

If you’re honeymooning or vacationing with family, Venice can be a little more tricky. The narrow streets, bridges, and occasional flooding can make navigating with young children a little more complicated – but that’s not to say it’s not doable

If that’s your plan, it might be worth staying in Mestre or a family-friendly hotel on the edge of the main islands where you’ll get more space, easier access and lower prices.

Likewise, budget travellers might struggle, as Venice is one of Italy’s more expensive cities. Accommodation, gondolas, and meals in central areas can quickly add up. 

We’re not about budget travel at MT, but if you want to enjoy Venice without breaking the bank, consider travelling off peak, using vaporetti instead of taxis, and dining in quiet side-street trattorias rather than on the main squares.

If you have accessibility needs, Venice can also be a challenging place to visit. There are many bridges and uneven paths, and transport is boats and walking. You’ll definitely want to plan ahead so you can find the best hotels to suit your requirements.

Practical tips for visiting Venice in 2026 & beyond

Visiting Venice can be magical, but a few well-planned strategies can make your trip smoother and more enjoyable. Here are my top practical tips to help you make the most of your stay:

🧳 Packing tips:

• Bring waterproof clothing: Acqua alta (high water) is a possibility in autumn and winter, so pack shoes that can handle water and consider a lightweight raincoat, too!

• Keep luggage light: If you’re staying in the centre of Venice, you’ll definitely want to pack light. Given that you can only travel by boat or by foot, there will be a lot of tugging, lifting and carrying. I recommend travelling with a backpack or a super light case in Venice (unless you’re getting a water taxi directly to your hotel).

• Pack comfy shoes: You will walk A LOT in Venice. The streets are old and uneven and there are lots of steps. Do yourself a favour if you visit and stick to sneakers or comfy shoes!

🏡 Where to stay:

• Main islands: These are perfect for first-time visitors or honeymooners wanting luxury. Staying near St. Mark’s Square or along the Grand Canal gives you immediate access to all the main sites.

• Mestre: This is a quieter, more budget-friendly option without sacrificing easy access to Venice by train. I’ve stayed in Mestre with my family before and it was still convenient. It might not have the same magic as Venice, but it does have a lot of benefits. 
  
  This is an area that feels local and authentic (and it’s also much cheaper). Plus, it’s easy to get into Venice – the train only takes 10 minutes and costs under €2. 
  
  The big thing to consider is that you might miss the atmospheric evenings and magical late-night or early-morning wanders in Venice. If you decide you do want to stay in central Venice, I’ve rounded up my favourite canal-view hotels here.

🙅‍♀️ Avoiding tourist traps:

• Local favourites: A lot of the restaurants on the main tourist trail are overpriced and not as authentic. Instead, make sure you wander off the beaten path to find local finds and the tastiest Italian food. You’ll want to find small bacari for cicchetti (Venetian tapas) and wine tasting – it’s a more authentic and relaxed experience.

• Skip the main squares for meals: Restaurants around Piazza San Marco and the Rialto Bridge are often overpriced. Explore quieter alleys and smaller squares for authentic cuisine.

📝 Planning tips:

• Transport passes: If you’re planning multiple vaporetti trips, it’s a good idea to get a multi-day pass rather than single tickets.

• Skip-The-Line tickets: Venice is undeniably popular so it’s understandable that the main attractions will be busy. If you don’t want to waste precious time waiting around in queues, Skip The Line tickets and tours are a must!

When is the best time to visit Venice?

Avoiding overtourism in Venice

I’m all for travelling to Venice, but we can’t pretend that overtourism isn’t a huge and very real problem in Venice. I completely get it if you’re feeling guilty about wanting to visit.

It’s not always easy to be an eco traveller but, if you do want to visit, there are things you can do – like travelling off-peak and supporting local businesses.

Venice is at its peak in summer but it makes a lovely winter city break, too, when it’s quieter and calmer. You could also travel in the shoulder seasons. Just check the weather forecast before you go to prepare for any rain!

To reduce the impact of overtourism, you could also stay in neighbourhoods like Castello or Dorsoduro, which offer a more authentic Venetian experience away from the busy tourist centre.

Make sure you invest in the locals while you’re there too, whether that’s hiring local guides, buying local and original products, and avoiding Airbnbs. Engaging in local experiences, such as cooking classes or artisan workshops, supports the community and provides a deeper connection to the city’s culture.

Is Venice worth it: FAQs

How many days in Venice is enough?

You’ll need at least 3 days to enjoy the best of Venice, but preferably longer in my opinion. However, if you only have time for a short trip, you can check out my one-day Venice itinerary here.

The charm and magic in Venice lie in ambling the alleyways and soaking up the atmosphere. And honestly, there’s nothing worse than feeling rushed to take it all in and not being able to fully enjoy yourself.

How to get to Venice

Flying into Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE) is the easiest option for most travellers. This is the main airport and there are regular direct flights from many UK airports.

If you’re travelling from the US, you can also fly direct from New York, Philadelphia and Atlanta. From the airport, you can hop on a bus to Piazzale Roma, which is at the entrance to the city.

Is Venice worth visiting? (Final thoughts)

If you hadn’t already guessed it, my answer is YES. I’d say Venice is absolutely worth visiting and makes a really special getaway.

Of course, there are things to keep in mind and it will also depend on your interests. I can happily spend my time wandering aimlessly and taking in the beauty of a destination.

I also love visiting cultural sites, admiring the scenery and learning stories about different places. Venice is also a smaller destination, so it can feel less chaotic than somewhere like Rome.

Aside from that, Venice is so so magical. If you’re planning a romantic getaway, Venice ticks all the boxes. It might be on the spendy side, but is totally worth it for a dream vacation!

There’s so much to love about Venice. There’s so much to see and do. It’s a breathtaking city and it promises a unique break.

I’ve visited a few times now and would go back again. So, in my opinion, Venice is definitely worth visiting. I think it’s one of those destinations you need to see for yourself.

There you have my thoughts on whether Venice is worth it! What are yours? Is it worth visiting Venice or is Venice overrated? I’d love to know what you think!

READ MORE:

• Best One Day in Venice Itinerary (+ Map)
• 3 Days in Venice: Itinerary + Guide
• 20 Best Hotels in Venice with Canal Views
• 17 Best Non Touristy Things to Do in Venice, Italy
• 21 Most Romantic Places in Italy

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