Romantic Venice city breaks
Table of contents
Planning a romantic break to Venice? Be inspired and find great deals on luxury romantic getaways to this city made for discerning lovers at Voyage Prive.
Stroll hand-in-hand through one of the world’s most romantic cities
With its romantic, medieval charm and stunning waterways, Venice has been a city for lovers for centuries and it’s easy to see why Shakespeare chose it as the location for The Merchant of Venice, one of his best-loved romantic comedies. You and your partner can follow in the footsteps of Portia and Bassanio in this city that elegantly marries modern luxury and convenience with ancient glamour and beauty. A UNESCO World Heritage Site in its entirety, a romantic city break in Venice will give you the opportunity to explore its bridges, canals and winding alleyways and discover why Venice deserves its place in a list of cities everybody should visit.
Lovers of the finer things in life visiting Venice for romantic weekends or longer getaways will feel instantly at home in one of a selection of luxury hotels. Our special handpicked offers just for couples guarantee the top-quality treatment you and your loved one deserve. Expect to find stunning marble interiors and expertly manicured gardens in which to relax and enjoy each other’s company.
Sample the best cuisine Italy has to offer, in one of its most perfect settings
Venice’s coastal position and centuries as an international trading giant mean that food lovers will find a huge variety of exceptional cuisine, including extraordinarily fresh seafood, polenta and pasta dishes. Local delicacies include the world-renowned Sepe al nero: squid cooked in its own ink and locally caught cod cooked simply in herbs, oil and butter. Situated in a fertile wine region, you’ll be able to match your food with the perfect drop, turning every meal into a romantic moment to savour.
You can create romantic memories by enjoying a classic moonlit gondola ride with your lover along the canal network, taking in architectural wonders such as the Doge’s Palace, the exquisite church of Santa Maria della Salute and the ornate palace of La Ca' d'Oro.
Soak up the atmosphere in St. Mark’s Square
Known to locals simply as “La Piazza” or The Square, no trip to Venice is complete without spending time in St Mark’s Square. Enjoy a ristretto in one of the many cafes lining the square and take in the majesty and history of St Mark’s Basilica, which towers over the square. From here, you can also explore many of the city’s breathtaking attractions by foot.
Italian cities are known for their seemingly effortless style and glamour and Venice is no exception. For couples who want to treat themselves, the shopping district contains some of Italy’s greatest fashion houses and art galleries, where you can purchase beautiful pieces, including the city’s famous Murano glass, as a memento of your romantic break.
5 things to see/do in Venice
1. St. Mark’s Basilica
St. Mark’s Basilica is the best-known in the city. The church dates to 1092 and is a must-see for anyone enjoying a weekend in Venice. It is widely regarded as the best example of surviving Italian-Byzantine architecture.
2. Take a Gondola Cruise
?
Whether you are travelling with your romantic partner, in a group or solo, a gondola cruise down Venice's famous canals is something you have to experience when you visit this iconic city on a weekend break.
3. Go to the Top of the Campanile Di San Marco
?
The Campanile Di San Marco is an iconic bell tower that is one of the most notable sights of Venice. There's a spectacular view of the city when you climb to the top.
4. Take in Venice from the Rialto Bridge
?
The Rialto Bridge is the most iconic in all of Venice. You will enjoy a unique view of the city from this beautiful landmark. It is the perfect spot for watching the ferries and gondolas traversing the canals.
5. Venice Lido
Venice Lido is the perfect spot if you are looking for some time away from the crowds of the city. It is located on a separate island situated between the Adriatic Sea and the main part of Venice.
The best hotels for a weekend in Venice
1. Hotel Metropole Venice 5*
??
The Hotel Metropole Venice 5* overlooks the city's iconic lagoon and offers incredible views of San Giorgio Island. Major areas of interest, such as the Piazza San Marco and the Biennale d'Arte, are close by. The hotel also has a Michelin Star restaurant on-site.
2. Hotel Gabrielli 4*
The Hotel Gabrielli 4* has been operating since 1856. This grand hotel features stunning Murano glass chandeliers and walls decorated with marble. Incredible cuisine is served at the Restaurant Gabrielli.
3. Four Points by Sheraton Venice Mestre 4*
Four Points by Sheraton Venice Mestre 4* is conveniently located near the train station in Venice. This provides easy access to the city centre and its many attractions. On-site amenities include a fitness centre, bar and restaurant.
4. Relais Alberti 4*
?
The Relais Alberti 4* is set in a pair of Venetian villas that are ornately decorated to provide guests with an authentic Venetian ambience. The accommodation features an internal courtyard, gardens, a boathouse and a patio for relaxing.
5. NH Venezia Rio Novo 4*
??
NH Venezia Rio Novo 4* is a stunning hotel that is set in the heart of the Dorsoduro part of the city. The surrounding area is full of incredible shops, restaurants and artisan boutiques. On-site amenities include a daily breakfast buffet and free gym access.
Plan your weekend break in Venice
The best time of the year to go to Venice
The best time of year to take a weekend break in Venice is between April and May when the weather is comfortable. It is worth noting that this is a peak time of year for tourism. Those who wish to avoid the crowds often prefer to visit Venice between September and November.
Going to Venice at the weekend
Getting to Venice from the UK is easy. There are regular flights from all major UK airports. Travel time for a direct flight averages about 2 hours and 15 minutes. Once you arrive at Venice Marco Polo Airport, it is easy to find ground transportation to the city centre. Transport options include taxi, water taxi, express shuttle or city bus.
Where to eat - the best districts and restaurants
Venice is famous for its fish dishes, such as Bigoli in salsa and Sarde in saor. The region is home to many renowned dining establishments. Fine dining options include Ristorante Wistèria and Osteria Anice Stellato. If you are looking to eat on a budget, Venice street food is the perfect option and there are plenty of traditional foods available from these vendors.
Nightlife in Venice
Whether you are travelling solo, in a group or as a couple, Venice nightlife is not to be missed during your weekend getaway. Group and solo travellers love heading out to the city's discos and dance clubs, such as Piccolo Mondo Disco Party Club and ZAZA. The region's top wine bars, such as La Barrique and Vineria all'Amarone, are perfect for couples enjoying a romantic evening.
Our practical advice for a weekend in Venice
What to pack for a weekend in Venice
If you are heading to Venice during the spring and summer months, it is recommended that you pack short-sleeved shirts and light, breathable clothing. Travellers who visit the city during the autumn should consider packing some long-sleeved shirts and a jumper to be prepared for cooler weather.
What budget to plan
When you choose Voyage Privé, we can save you up to 70% on luxury accommodation that is ideally located to allow you to enjoy all that Venice has to offer. In terms of budgeting for spending money, you should expect to spend around £170 per day per person.
Useful information before going to Venice
The official language of Venice is Italian. English is one of the most common second languages spoken in the region and UK tourists generally find that it is understood well enough for them to get by. With this said, it is a good idea to brush up on some common Italian phrases before heading to the city. The currency in the city is the euro and the time difference is one hour ahead of UK time. You will need to get a continental Europe plug adapter if you wish to use any of your electrical appliances in Venice. The good news is that the voltage is the same as in the UK so there is no need for a voltage converter.
Weekends Venice, customer reviews
Hôtel Radisson Blu Nice (Nice - France)
- Last Minute New York Holidays 2025
- Deciding where to stay in Verona? Just ask us!
- Last minute holidays to Venice
- Discover where to stay in Palermo, capital of Sicily
- Where to stay in seductive Sicily
- Cruise Venice for your next luxury break
- Discover where to stay in Pisa, the city of the leaning tower
- Italy's Sorrento; perfectly placed and utterly bewitching
- Holidays to Puglia