Where to Eat and What to do in Italy’s floating city | Venice
The most romantic and inspiring spots in Venice
By The Bearleaders
Florian | Venice
“A private boat tour on the Grand Canal is one of the nicest things to do in Venice. Obviously not original, but for sure worth it because of the breathtaking scenery”
Venice is, without a doubt, the most romantic getaway destination in Europe. This city is built on over 100 small islands in a lagoon in the Adriatic Sea and surprises with elegant Renaissance palazzi that rise out of the water.
Spotting the best places in this tourist-filled city takes a little foresight, but don’t shy away from it.
From chic hotel bars to a series of hidden food gems; let The Bearleaders guide you through one of the most unique cities in the world.
What to do
MICKY HOOGENDIJK AT THE GIARDINI DELLA MARINARESSA
A larger-than-life version of Micky’s famous work, ‘The Ones I’ is on display from April 18th to November 24th, 2024, at the Giardini della Marinaressa. The beautiful garden perfectly showcases the monumental four-meter-high bronze sculpture. Envisioned as a testament to the harmony of vulnerability and strength, it highlights the importance of unity among people.
“The beauty of The Ones lies in their universal language: just as music, colour and nature can be understood by everyone, the same is true of sculptures of The Ones. Everyone can understand them, can see themselves in them and can recognize something in them. It’s that universality that makes me eager to travel with them. ”
CANAL GRANDE TOUR
Tip: pay for a guide on the tour as well, so you can hear way more about Venice and its rich history. If you take the tour when the sun sets, the boat can drop you off at the restaurant of your choice.
maps | favourite of Jorane Cuppen
CASINO DI VENEZIA
Imagine yourself in Renaissance times in this beautiful building, but also definitely look at the gothic details on the outside. The oldest casino in the world is still up and running, so if you dare, place your bets.
PEGGY GUGGENHEIM COLLECTION
This modern art museum is housed in the beautiful palazzo Venier dei Leoni, and holds the personal collection of former owner Peggy Guggenheim. You can find Picasso, Kandinsky, Duchamp and more of the greatest painters in history. Order a ticket online in advance in order to skip the line, as it is one of the most visited sites in Venice.
CASA DEL PARMIGIANO
Shopping for food, and especially Parmigiano, is always a good idea. This cheese and cold cut meats shop in the centre of Venice has been a landmark for three generations. You can also find truffles, balsamico, oil and wine here.
CARDIN PET BOUTIQUE
Get your pet some toys, clothes or other accessories to take home. This cute place has the sweetest owner, who doesn’t speak a word of English but still tries to help you - and is bound to succeed. A nice little jacket or a Swarovski embedded bracelet, this place has it all.
NEGOZIO OLIVETTI
Hidden in the arcades of Piazza San Marco you’ll find this Olivetti showroom, once the world’s first luxury flagship store.
After being closed down for a while, it has now reopened, showcasing the original items for sale when it opened, such as vintage typewriters.
The star however is the building itself, a true architectural masterpiece by Carlos Scarpa, minimalist and slick yet full of details and handcrafted touches.
PUNTA DELLA DOGANA
The city’s former ceremonial harbour houses this beautiful museum, housing some of the most striking contemporary sculptures. The museum’s architecture, by legendary Japanese architect Tadao Ando, brings an industrial modern touch to the classic building and its tantalizing textures.
Where to eat & drink
HARRY’S BAR
This famous bar is the birthplace of the carpaccio dish and the Bellini cocktail. If you don’t know where it is, it’s easy to walk past it. Look for the wooden doors! Have lunch there, or a quick bite in the afternoon when it gets too hot.
RISTORANTE ADRIATICA
The route from the Rialto bridge to this place is full of nice shops, art spaces and more. The restaurant is part of Il Palazzo Experimental, which is beautifully designed with a classic Italian yet modern interior.
The bar is wonderfully styled and so is the indoor garden where you can comfortably sit. The food is exquisite, they serve stunning plates full of fresh ingredients.
RIVIERA RISTORANTE PER ONNIVORI
This must be the best tip for a romantic night out in Venice. In the summer, sitting on the best waterfront spot in the city offers the best views.
Be welcomed by the charismatic host and owner and enjoy their stunning food and beautiful wines. Try combining it with the Canal Grande tour and making this your end destination.
OSTERIA ENOTECA SAN MARCO
Hidden in the narrow streets around San Marco, you can easily walk past this place. But once you’re in, you will be immediately surprised by the menu and guided by the waiters to select some accompanied wines.
This is a place where you can enjoy a great selection of wines and some food with it. Their pasta with pistachio crumble is especially recommended.
SUSO GELATOTECA
The best ice cream I’ve eaten in Venice. They have a range of flavours that never disappoint.
FLORIAN
The oldest cafe since 1720 – it is said that the first coffee was served here. Do be aware that a cup can cost up to 10 Euros. Just check out the old-fashioned interior and atmosphere that is still there.
instagram | maps | favourite of Jorane Cuppen, Gastronomist and Heinz Strobl, Senior Hotel Executive
IL MERCANTE
The staff is very knowledgeable and the cocktails are to die for. Very centrally located, in front of the Basilica dei Frari, and the interior really is special. It makes you want to go back to the roaring 20s.
They’re busy with implementing sustainability into their bar practices, leaving nothing to waste.maps | favourite of Jorane Cuppen
