Flights to Venice

Venice, a captivating city renowned for its historic charm and unique waterways, offers a myriad of flight options for travellers. Multiple carriers provide flights to this enchanting destination, connecting it to major cities worldwide. Whether you embark on a direct journey or opt for connecting flights, the process is seamless, allowing you to explore the picturesque canals, iconic landmarks, and rich cultural heritage that Venice has to offer. With efficient air travel services and well-connected airports, reaching this Italian gem is a delightful experience, promising an unforgettable sojourn amidst its timeless beauty and vibrant atmosphere.

Airports in Venice

Airlines flying to Venice from the UK

• British Airways
• easyJet
• Ryanair
• Jet2
• TUI Airways
• Wizz Air
• Vueling Airlines
• Norwegian Air
• Eurowings
• Aer Lingus

What is the best time to get cheapest flights to Venice?

Securing the most budget-friendly flights to Venice often involves strategic timing. Consider the following insights for cost-effective travel:

• Off-Peak Seasons: Plan your visit during the shoulder seasons, typically spring (April to June) or fall (September to October). Avoiding peak summer months and major holidays can yield more affordable options.
• Midweek Travel: Flying on Tuesdays or Wednesdays often provides better deals compared to weekends. Airlines tend to offer lower fares midweek due to reduced demand.
• Advance Booking: Book well in advance, ideally 4-6 weeks before your desired travel date. Early bookings often come with lower prices.
• Flexible Dates: Be flexible with your travel dates, as adjusting by a day or two can sometimes result in significant cost savings.
• Set Fare Alerts: Use online tools or apps to set fare alerts. This allows you to monitor price fluctuations and catch a deal when prices drop.

How long is a direct and indirect flight to Venice from United Kingdom?

The duration of flights from the United Kingdom to Venice varies based on whether it's a direct or indirect (connecting) flight.

• Direct Flights: Direct flights from major UK airports to Venice, particularly London, typically take approximately 2 to 2.5 hours.
• Indirect Flights: Indirect flights, involving one or more layovers, can significantly extend travel time. The total duration depends on the layover duration and the specific routing, but it often ranges from 4 to 8 hours or more.

What is the time difference between the United Kingdom and Venice?

Venice, Italy, is in the Central European Time (CET) zone, which is UTC+1. However, during daylight saving time (from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October), it follows Central European Summer Time (CEST), UTC+2. The United Kingdom follows Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) or British Summer Time (BST), which is GMT+1 during daylight saving time.

How much is a return flight from United Kingdom to Venice?

The cost of a return flight from the United Kingdom to Venice can vary based on several factors, including the departure city, airline, class of service, and booking time. Here are approximate average return fares across different classes:

• Economy Class: Average return fares can range from £100 to £300, depending on factors like booking time, airline, and availability.
• Premium Economy Class: Premium economy fares typically range from £300 to £600 for a return trip.
• Business Class: Business class return fares can vary widely, averaging between £600 to £1500 or more, offering enhanced services and comfort.
• First Class: First-class return fares are generally higher, often starting from £1500 and going up significantly for luxurious amenities and services.

Which United Kingdom Airport can I fly to Venice?

• London Heathrow Airport (LHR)
• London Gatwick Airport (LGW)
• Manchester Airport (MAN)
• London Stansted Airport (STN)
• Birmingham Airport (BHX)
• Edinburgh Airport (EDI)
• Bristol Airport (BRS)

Baggage Allowance on flights to Venice from the United Kingdom

Baggage policies can vary between airlines, so it's essential to check with the specific airline you choose for the most accurate information.

• Economy Class: Typically includes one or more checked bags, each with a weight limit (e.g., 23 kg per bag). Allows one or more pieces of hand luggage (e.g., one carry-on and one personal item).
• Premium Economy Class: Offers a more generous checked baggage allowance compared to Economy. Often includes additional amenities and services.
• Business Class: Provides an increased checked baggage allowance, usually with higher weight limits. Grants access to premium lounges and enhanced in-flight services.
• First Class: Offers the most extensive baggage allowance, allowing for more and heavier checked bags. Provides exclusive perks such as priority boarding, luxurious lounges, and premium in-flight services.

Mini Travel Guide of Venice, Italy

Best Things to Do in Venice

• Explore St. Mark's Square: Immerse yourself in the heart of Venice, surrounded by iconic landmarks like St. Mark's Basilica and the Campanile.
• Take a Gondola Ride: Experience the charm of Venice's waterways with a classic gondola ride, offering picturesque views of the city.
• Visit Doge's Palace: Explore this magnificent palace showcasing Venetian Gothic architecture and rich history, including the famous Bridge of Sighs.
• Wander Through Rialto Market: Discover the vibrant Rialto Market, where locals and tourists alike indulge in fresh produce, seafood, and Venetian specialties.
• Admire the Grand Canal: Cruise along the Grand Canal by vaporetto or water taxi to appreciate the stunning architecture lining this central waterway.
• Tour the Peggy Guggenheim Collection: Delve into modern art at the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, housed in a palazzo along the Grand Canal.
• Visit the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute: Marvel at the Baroque beauty of this prominent church, offering panoramic views of the city from its steps.
• Explore the Islands of Murano and Burano: Take a boat trip to Murano for glass-blowing demonstrations and Burano for its colourful houses and lace-making traditions.
• Enjoy Venetian Cuisine: Indulge in local delights such as cicchetti (Venetian tapas), fresh seafood, and traditional risotto in charming canal-side restaurants.
• Attend a Performance at La Fenice Opera House: Experience the elegance of Italian opera by attending a performance at La Fenice, one of the most famous opera houses in the world.

Best Neighbourhoods to Stay in Venice

• San Marco: The heart of Venice, known for St. Mark's Square and proximity to major attractions. Offers luxury hotels and a bustling atmosphere.
• Cannaregio: A charming residential area with a local vibe, featuring historic sites like the Jewish Ghetto and lively dining options.
• Dorsoduro: Home to art galleries, the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, and the Accademia Bridge, this district combines cultural richness with a relaxed ambience.
• Castello: A diverse neighbourhood encompassing the Arsenale, Giardini della Biennale, and local markets, providing a mix of history and authenticity.
• San Polo: Central and bustling, with the Rialto Bridge and the Rialto Market, offering a lively atmosphere and traditional Venetian experiences.
• Giudecca: An island neighbourhood providing a peaceful retreat with stunning views of Venice. Accessible by vaporetto, it offers a more serene environment.
• Santa Croce: A less touristy area with local markets and the San Giacomo dell'Orio church, providing an authentic Venetian experience.
• Lido di Venezia: A barrier island with a beach, known for the Venice Film Festival. Offers a more relaxed atmosphere and a break from the crowds.
• Murano: Famous for its glass-blowing workshops, Murano provides a unique and quieter escape from the main island of Venice.
• Burano: Known for its vibrant, colourful houses and lace-making tradition. A picturesque and peaceful neighbourhood away from the bustling city centre.

Best Time to Visit Venice

• Spring (April to June): Mild temperatures and blooming landscapes make spring an ideal time to visit Venice. Enjoy fewer crowds and pleasant weather for exploring the city's attractions.
• Early Autumn (September to October): Similar to spring, early autumn offers comfortable temperatures and reduced tourist numbers. It's an excellent time to experience the charm of Venice without the summer crowds.
• Carnival Season (February to early March): Venice's famous Carnival draws visitors from around the world. While it's a vibrant and festive time, be prepared for larger crowds and higher prices.
• Late Autumn (November): Towards the end of autumn, Venice experiences fewer tourists, and you can still enjoy relatively mild weather. However, there may be occasional acqua alta (high water) events.
• Winter (December to February): Winter in Venice is quieter, with fewer tourists, but temperatures can be chilly. Witness the city adorned with festive lights and enjoy a more intimate experience.
• Avoid Peak Summer (July to August): While summer offers warm weather, it also attracts large crowds, leading to higher prices and longer queues. If visiting during summer, plan for early mornings or late evenings to avoid the busiest times.

Best Hotels to Stay in Venice

• Gritti Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel: A lavish hotel overlooking the Grand Canal, offering opulent rooms, fine dining, and a central location near St. Mark's Square.
• Ca' Sagredo Hotel: Housed in a 15th-century palace, this elegant hotel boasts antique furnishings, a canal-side terrace, and proximity to Rialto Bridge.
• Bauer Palazzo: A luxurious hotel with a private garden, stylish rooms, and panoramic views of the city. Located in the San Marco district.
• Belmond Hotel Cipriani: Situated on Giudecca Island, this exclusive retreat features lush gardens, a pool with a view, and impeccable service.
• Baglioni Hotel Luna: A refined hotel near St. Mark's Square, offering sumptuous rooms, a gourmet restaurant, and a terrace with stunning views.
• Ca' Pisani Hotel: A boutique hotel in Dorsoduro, combining modern design with Art Deco influences. Close to the Accademia Gallery and the Peggy Guggenheim Collection.
• JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa: Located on its private island, Isola delle Rose, this resort offers a tranquil escape with luxurious amenities and breathtaking views.
• Bauer Palazzo & Palladio Hotel: Comprising two hotels, Bauer Palazzo and Palladio, this complex offers a unique blend of historic charm and contemporary luxury.
• Hotel Danieli, a Luxury Collection Hotel: Overlooking the lagoon near St. Mark's Square, this iconic hotel features ornate interiors, gourmet dining, and a rooftop terrace.
• Ca' Nigra Lagoon Resort: Nestled along the Grand Canal, this boutique hotel provides a peaceful retreat with elegant rooms and a charming garden.

Best Restaurants to Eat in Venice

• Osteria Alle Testiere: A charming seafood-focused restaurant known for its intimate atmosphere and fresh, seasonal ingredients. Reservations recommended.
• Antiche Carampane: Renowned for its exquisite Venetian seafood dishes, this restaurant offers a cosy setting near the Rialto Bridge.
• Alle Vedova: A historic osteria famous for its traditional Venetian cicchetti (small plates) and local wines. A casual spot with authentic flavours.
• La Zucca: Vegetarian-friendly and highly regarded for its creative use of fresh produce. Located in a charming canal-side setting in the Santa Croce district.
• Ristorante Quadri: Situated in St. Mark's Square, Quadri is a Michelin-starred restaurant offering fine dining with a view of the iconic surroundings.
• Trattoria da Fiore: A family-run trattoria known for its classic Venetian dishes and warm, welcoming atmosphere. Reservations are recommended.
• Al Covo: A favourite among locals and visitors alike, Al Covo focuses on using seasonal and regional ingredients to create memorable dishes.
• Antico Martini: Located near La Fenice Opera House, this elegant restaurant serves Venetian and Italian cuisine with a touch of modern flair.
• Il Ridotto: Tucked away near St. Mark's Square, Il Ridotto offers a Michelin-starred dining experience, blending traditional and contemporary Venetian flavours.
• Trattoria Antiche Carampane: A family-run trattoria celebrated for its seafood specialties, providing an authentic Venetian dining experience. Reservations are recommended.

How to Travel Within Venice

• Vaporetto (Water Bus): The primary mode of public transportation in Venice, vaporettos navigate the city's canals and provide convenient access to various neighbourhoods and attractions.
• Water Taxis: A more private and direct option, water taxis can be hired for quick and personalised transportation between locations.
• Gondolas: While traditionally associated with leisurely rides, gondolas can also be hired for point-to-point transportation, offering a unique and romantic travel experience.
• Water Ferries: Larger water ferries connect Venice to nearby islands and mainland areas, providing efficient transportation for both locals and tourists.
• Ciclismo (Cycling): While not as common as in some other cities, cycling is allowed in certain areas of Venice. It can be a convenient way to explore less crowded neighbourhoods.
• Traghetto: Traghettos are gondola ferries that transport passengers across the Grand Canal at specific points, providing a quicker alternative to using bridges.
• Water Limousines: Offering a luxurious experience, water limousines are available for hire and provide a comfortable and stylish way to navigate the city's waterways.
• ACTV Buses: On the mainland and some surrounding areas, ACTV buses provide a cost-effective way to travel to and from Venice.
• Crossing Bridges: With numerous bridges connecting different parts of Venice, exploring on foot and crossing these structures is a fundamental part of getting around the city.

Visa Requirements for Venice, Italy

UK residents do not require a visa for short stays in Venice, Italy, or any other Schengen Area country, as Italy is a Schengen member. Travellers can stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism, business, or family visits without a visa. However, a valid passport with at least six months' validity beyond the intended departure date is mandatory. It's essential to ensure the passport is in good condition. For longer stays or other purposes, a visa application may be necessary, and specific requirements should be confirmed with the Italian embassy or consulate.