8 Ways to Get Closer to the Water

Surprise! Venice isn't only canals - it also boasts wide, sandy beaches!

Just 15 minutes by vaporetto from St. Mark's Square, you arrive at Lido di Venetia. A short walk later and you'll be toes-deep in the inviting waters of the Adriatic Sea.

Enjoy beach time and unwind with breezy bicycle rides away from the city's hustle.

How extraordinary would it be to glide through Venice's canals in your own self-propelled vessel?

If “Awesome, where do I sign?” is your immediate answer, then you're in luck - there's a great selection of kayak tours available, including some perfectly timed for sunset.

If kayaking feels a bit too adventurous and you'd rather try something new, there's a safer alternative - and one that's also deeply Venetian.

VeniceOnBoard and RowVenice offer 90-minute lessons in traditional Venetian rowing, taught aboard a batellina - a stable, traditional boat once used around the lagoon.

After learning the basic forward stroke (a prua, at the prow), you'll be invited to try your hand at the poppa - steering from the stern, just like a gondolier.

Grab the oars and give it a go!

Riding a gondola is on many people's bucket lists, and it's truly as unique to Venice as it gets.

The most atmospheric rides usually take place along quieter side canals, where the city feels slower and more intimate. Some routes also pass along the Grand Canal or under the Rialto Bridge, where larger boats pass close by and the water feels busier and more dynamic.

Gondola rides can be booked on the spot at a fixed city rate: €90 for a 30-minute ride during the day and €110 in the evening or at night. The price is per boat, not per person, and each gondola can carry up to five passengers. Payment is cash only.

You could also book a shared gondola ride online. These are more budget-friendly for solo travelers or couples who don't mind sharing the gondola with others, and they also remove the need to handle cash payments.

Plenty of boat tours float around Venice, but this 90-minute catamaran cruise is the sweet spot - smooth sailing, spritz in hand, and your budget still intact.

Departing near Naval History Museum, it loops through the scenic San Marco Basin with relaxing music and a glass of prosecco or spritz to keep you company.

There are over 100 islands in the lagoon, but perhaps the most famous ones are Murano, Burano, and Torcello.

Murano has been the heart of Venice's renowned glass-making industry since 1291.

Burano is distinguished by its brightly painted houses and is renowned for its traditional lace artisans.

Torcello is often seen as the symbolic birthplace of Venice.

While you can visit all three islands using the waterbus service - ideally with a day-pass to optimize costs - a boat tour lets you see them all in just a few hours, which is perfect if your time is short.

If you prefer safe, firm ground, Venice's scenic embankments offer the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll along the water's edge.