To be honest, Venice was NOT on my list of favorite vacation spots.
When I was 17, I joined my high school Latin class on a 2½-week tour through Italy. The romance of the country—especially Venice—was not lost on us. But let’s just say that 20+ teenagers roaming Italy together wasn’t exactly a recipe for structure or good decisions.
We had just one (partial) day in Venice, with no plan and no tour—just a vague instruction to “explore” and meet back in St. Mark’s Square at 5:00 p.m. Groups of us wandered off, entranced by the narrow alleys, beautiful bridges, and magical canals. We soaked it all in, oblivious to time, turning corners and discovering quiet, tucked-away streets that felt like something from a storybook.
Lost in Venice
But at 4:00, reality hit—we needed to head back. Unfortunately, two teenage girls with zero sense of direction were no match for the maze that is Venice, Italy. We started walking in circles, asking every kind soul we passed, “Dove San Marco?” One cute guy said he’d take us there—but instead led us to a restaurant. Another tried to help, but got us more turned around. Panic set in.
And then, a sweet Italian nonna noticed our red eyes and frantic faces. She didn’t speak English, but she understood everything we were feeling. With a few hurried words, she motioned for us to follow. She walked us all the way to the square, arriving back at 5:20 p.m.—only to find our group was gone.
Our teacher had decided to leave without us.
She had left behind one “responsible” boy in our group who informed us how very angry she was and gave us instructions on how to get to the hotel—outside Milan – about 2+ hours (and several transfers) away. I can still feel that sinking feeling. The three of us boarded the train, switched lines twice, then caught a bus to the hotel, arriving around 9:00 p.m.—tired and frustrated.
Our teacher had already gone to bed.
The next morning, she didn’t offer much in the way of concern—only anger. Looking back now, I can’t imagine leaving two students behind in a foreign city—especially without cell phones or any way to reach someone. When I told my parents later, they were furious. I was just… lost. Not disobedient or rebellious. Just lost in Venice.
Returning to Venice: A New Perspective
For years, Venice lived in my mind as that beautiful, confusing labyrinth that left me terrified. But time changes things.
When I returned years later, Venice welcomed me back. I saw it again—not through the eyes of a panicked teenager—but as the magical, romantic, stunning place it truly is. The charm, the history, the sunsets reflecting on the canals… it was all there, just as I’d imagined long ago. And maybe, just maybe, getting lost is what makes some places stick with us forever.
Things to Do in Venice (That Made Me Fall in Love Again)
This time around, I had a plan – and GPS on my phone – and my husband (with an amazing sense of direction). We also had two full days and lots on my list to explore… This is what we enjoyed the most.
1. St. Mark’s Basilica
I marveled at the intricate architecture of St. Mark’s Basilica, with its gilded mosaics and history stretching back to the 9th century. It’s iconic for a reason—and stepping inside feels like walking into a golden jewel box. Outside in the square, pigeons still swirl around like confetti, just as they did when I visited as a teenager. They add to the magic and the chaotic mayhem of Venice’s most famous piazza.
2. Doge’s Palace and the Bridge of Sighs
Right next door, the Doge’s Palace offered a glimpse into Venice’s political and artistic past—with lavish rooms, secret corridors, and the haunting Bridge of Sighs. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel like you’re walking through a living storybook.
3. Gondola Rides Through the Canals
Of course, no visit to Venice is complete without a gondola ride. Yes, they’re touristy. Yes, they’re a bit pricey. But gliding through those narrow canals, past flower-draped balconies and under tiny arched bridges, is pure magic. It’s worth every single Euro. Gondoliers still sing, the water still sparkles, and for a few moments, you feel suspended in time.
4. Venetian Food
The food—oh, the food! From cicchetti (Venetian tapas) to creamy seafood risottos and gelato eaten along the Grand Canal, everything felt so indulgent. Venice may be known for its beauty, but the cuisine is every bit as memorable. I found tiny cafés tucked into quiet alleyways that served some of the best pasta I’ve ever tasted. And the espresso? Bold, rich, and exactly what I hoped it would be. (Try Caffè Quadri – a historic café worth visiting for its stunning interiors and fabulous service).
5. Murano and Burano Day Trip
If you have time, take a short boat ride to the nearby islands of Murano (15 mins away) and Burano (45 min from Venice or 30 min from Murano).
- Murano has been world-famous for its glassblowing since the 13th century. You can visit working glass factories, watch skilled artisans in action, and shop for beautiful pieces in local shops. I have a small handblown vase of Murano glass that still sits proudly on my shelf.
- Burano is bursting with color. Its candy-colored houses and lace-making traditions feel like a postcard come to life. It’s the kind of place where you could take a hundred photos and still feel like you haven’t captured it all.
Final Thoughts on Venice
Venice isn’t just a destination—it’s an experience. Venice may have once overwhelmed me, but now it feels like a dream I’ve been lucky enough to revisit—more than once—with wiser eyes and a full heart.
If you’re planning a trip to Italy, don’t skip Venice. Get lost in it. Soak it in. Let it surprise you.
You never know what you’ll find—or what will find you.