Venice is one of the famous tourist destinations, an Italian city, and the capital of the Veneto region. The city is generally an amalgamation of 118 small islands connected by bridges and canals. The city has many ports, and one of the most famous is the Port of Venice, a popular choice for traveling around the globe. It is also a famous Mediterranean homeport for cruise ships and provides advanced cruise facilities for passengers. The second port of Venice is Marittima, which has serval piers and terminal buildings within walking distance from the taxi booth, Piazzale Roma, and the bus stand, and the historical center.
Another port of Venice is the San Basilio terminal, located in the Giudecca Canal. It can accommodate small cruises, hydrofoils, and catamarans. The terminal has a 60-seater waiting room, a departure hall, 8 check-in counters, 2 baggage control lines, and 4 restrooms. One more port is Venice Yacht Pier. It offers 950m of dockage and accommodates up to 21 superyachts. The location of the berths is near Punta Delle Dogana and Saint Mark's Square, providing beautiful views of the city, culture, and architecture.
The beauty of Venice city is amazing because it is established on several islands linked with channels and ivy bridges. The city is known for its canals, elegant buildings, and history, which makes it different and an attraction for tourists. People can spend their whole holiday there and create memories as it has well-known places to visit and activities for fun and enjoyment.
St. Mark’s Square is the heart and the main attraction of Venice. It is situated close to such tourist attractions as St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace. This large square is perfect for a break, for a picture, and to get the feeling of the pulse of the city. There are cafes along the square, and you can enjoy music and nice architecture at the same time. During the evening, the square looks extraordinary, so it attracts not only tourists but also locals.
The Grand Canal is the widest in Venice, and there are palaces, churches, and other buildings around the canal. Further, a visit on a water taxi, gondola, or even Vaporetto is like a water bus but slightly cheaper and offers a good platform. When you are rowing, you will get to view great attractions such as the Rialto Bridge and the Ca’ d’Oro. It is beautiful to observe Venice from the Grand Canal in the evening.
The Rialto Bridge is one of the oldest tourist attractions in Venice which is built across the Grand Canal. It allows for the observation of the water and other events happening in places surrounding it. People can cross the bridge, shop at the small stores on it, or just stand and watch the view. It is very suitable for taking photos from this area, and it is also a good area to watch the gondolas and boats navigate the water.
The Doge’s Palace represents one of the best examples of Venetian Gothic architecture and reflects the might of the city and its past. Once upon a time, the dwelling of the Doge, the ruler of the Venetian Republic, this fabulous palace is now occupied by the museum. It can be visited to be impressed by the extraordinarily specially designed rooms, ogle at the artwork, and learn more about Venice. The last on the list for the visit is the Bridge of Sighs, which connects the palace to the old reformatory and, at the same time, offers a fantastic view of Venice.
Murano and Burano are the two islands that are located just a ship ride away from Venice and give a different feel to Venice. Tourists crave the glass-making studios found throughout the islands of Murano, where visitors can observe skilled artisans at work. Burano is well known for its painted houses and lace-making factory. It is a beautiful place to visit, and you can spend time in complete silence. All the resorts are situated on beautiful islands that provide a quiet oasis amid the busy main city stuffed with events.
It is impossible to visit Venice and not take a gondola ride. These are the real boats of the city and afford an interesting way to sightsee on the canals of the city. When you move through the network of narrow canals, you can see bridges with beautiful structures around and the calm side of Venice. It is very pleasant and intimate, especially in the evening
If you are interested in exploring cruises from Venice to your favorite destinations, you should understand that the best time to plan depends on the weather, crowds, ships, choice of ports, and pricing. Read more to learn about the best season to cruise the Mediterranean.
Spring (March to May) |
Summer (June to August) |
Fall (September to November) |
Winter (December to February) |
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Cruising from Venice is particularly recommended during spring. The tempered climate has an average temperature of 50-70 F, which is 10-20 C. This is a good season for tourism because flowers are in bloom, and the climate is cool and dry. It is probably the best time to get to Venice when all the people are gone and enjoy the presence of the canals and the old architecture. |
Summer is a preferred time for cruising from Venice, and most of them are family cruises. The climate is gentle, and the temperature varies between 80/90 F (27/35 C). It is suitable for outdoor events and other Mediterranean attractions. However, summer is also the most preferable time of the year for most people to be out of work and travel; hence, the best time to book your cruise would be earlier at an enhanced discount and to book your cabin. |
Autumn is also a good time to take a Venice cruise. It is good weather most of the time, and it is rather moderate in terms of temperature: about 60/70F (15/25C), which is very good for walks. Autumn in countries such as Greece or Croatia looks very beautiful, and, in addition, the prices for cruises are lower at this time of the year due to the lack of tourists. This is also the time where you can get a lot of discounts and promos. |
Venice's winter is freezing, with temperatures dropping between 30 degrees F and 50 degrees F (0 degrees C to 10 degrees C). Because it is winter in Venice, it is a perfect time to travel to warmer climates such as the Canary Islands or the Mediterranean. This is also the best time to travel on cruises since the prices are relatively low and the number of people on the cruise is relatively low. |
It is worth going to Venice as it has beautiful places to visit, tasty-yummy food to try, and exploring religious buildings. Venice has many tourist places not to miss any, but here we highlight the top 5 things to do in Venice:
Visit the Gallerie dell’Accademia in Dorsoduro: Tucked away at the end of the famous wooden Accademia Bridge in Dorsoduro lies the Gallerie dell’Accademia, one of Italy’s premier art museums. A stroll through this museum is like walking through the history of Venetian art, with masterpieces originally decorating local churches. The collection begins with Paolo Veneziano and progresses to notable artists like Carpaccio, Mantegna, and Bellini, culminating in the stunning works of Tintoretto, Titian, and Veronese. Nearby, explore local craftsmanship at Cornici Trevisanello for exquisite picture frames and Paolo Olbi’s shop for beautiful hand-printed stationery.
Discover the Charm of Venetian Bacari: When in Venice, remember these three terms: ombra, cicchetti, and bacaro. An 'ombra' is a small glass of wine typically enjoyed in a 'bacaro,' a cozy local wine bar. Complement your drink with 'cicchetti,' Venetian tapas that range from simple baguette slices topped with various ingredients to traditional dishes like hard-boiled eggs with anchovies or 'sarde in saor'—sardines in a tangy marinade. It's the perfect way to savor local flavors and immerse yourself in Venetian culture. Be sure to try the less common but delicious old-style cicchetti.
Experience Authentic Burano: Escape to the colorful island of Burano, known for its brightly painted houses and rich fishing heritage. A 45-minute vaporetto ride from Venice takes you to this vibrant community, where you can engage in sustainable tourism. Explore the Museo del Merletto for insight into the island’s lacemaking tradition or join a peaceful tour of the northern lagoon with local fisherman Andrea Rossi. Discovering Burano is about more than its picturesque scenery; it’s about connecting with its enduring traditions and serene natural beauty.
Explore Modern Art at the Querini Stampalia Museum: The Fondazione Querini Stampalia in Venice is a special for history and modernity housed in a 16th-century palace. Renowned 20th-century architect Carlo Scarpa designed its modernist wing and garden. The museum showcases incredible artworks by artists like Palma il Vecchio, Canaletto, and Bellini. Recently updated in 2022, the informational panels provide a deeper understanding of the art and insights into Venetian life, covering topics from social issues to historical practices in Venice.
Tour Venice’s Notable Churches with a Chorus Pass: Venice is dotted with exquisite churches, each housing incredible artworks. To explore these, purchase a Chorus Pass, which grants entry to eighteen beautiful churches for just €14 and is valid for a year. Highlights include Santa Maria dei Miracoli, known for its stunning marble architecture, and San Sebastiano, adorned with frescoes by Veronese. This pass allows you to enrich your wanderings around Venice with cultural gems, making each visit a unique artistic discovery.
Sailing lines and ships in Venice offer a range of experiences perfect for diverse travelers, each promising unique journeys from this enchanting city:
MSC Cruises combines traditional charm with modern amenities, ensuring a comfortable and vibrant journey. Ships like MSC Armonia and MSC Sinfonia sail from Venice, featuring extensive entertainment and dining options that cater to families and couples alike.
Viking Expeditions Cruise Line
From Venice, Sun Princess promises luxury and spaciousness, which is typical of Princess Cruises. This ship excels in providing exceptional service, diverse cuisine, and a variety of onboard activities, making it ideal for those seeking a relaxed yet upscale cruise experience.
Viking Expeditions Cruise Line
Oceania's Nautica departs from Venice, offering an intimate and refined cruising experience. It focuses on gourmet dining and features elegantly designed interiors, appealing to those who prefer a sophisticated, quieter voyage.
Viking Expeditions Cruise Line
Viking ships, including Viking Jupiter and Viking Mars, offer journeys enriched with cultural insights. Departing from Venice, they blend luxurious accommodations with educational opportunities, ideal for those seeking both comfort and enrichment.
Viking Expeditions Cruise Line
Azamara's ships, like Azamara Quest, provide a more personalized and immersive experience. Departing from Venice, they focus on longer stays at ports, enabling deep cultural exploration, perfect for avid travelers.
Traveling on a budget is an excellent way to reduce cruise costs from Venice while visiting amazing locations. Here are some easy hints for searching for the best deals:
Book Early: Cruises departing from Venice often offer substantial discounts if you make your reservation months in advance. Booking ahead helps secure lower prices and gives access to the best cabins, sometimes even with perks like reduced deposits or onboard credit.
Last-Minute Deals: If your trip dates are flexible, look for last-minute cruise deals from Venice. These discounts usually appear close to the departure dates and can lead to significant savings. Monitoring travel websites or signing up for newsletters ensures you're updated on the latest offers.
Promotions and Sales: Pay close attention to promotions and sales, especially around holidays or big events like Black Friday. Offers may include discounted drink packages, free dining options, or lower-priced excursions. Signing up for travel websites or our CruiseBooking.com newsletters can help you stay informed about these promotions.
Group Rates and Loyalty Programs: Many cruises from Venice offer discounts when booking multiple cabins for a group. Also, joining a cruise line's loyalty program can grant you access to exclusive deals, upgrades, and other perks if you're a repeat customer.
Cruises from Venice offer a wide range of exciting destinations for travelers looking to explore stunning Mediterranean locales while enjoying a peaceful journey at sea. Here’s a closer look at some top cruise destinations from Venice:
Venice offers a wide variety of cruise options that cater to all types of travelers. Whether you’re seeking exquisite dining, thrilling entertainment, or activities for the whole family, Venice-based cruises ensure there is something for everyone. Here’s what you can expect when you embark on a cruise from this historic city:
As you plan your cruise departure from Venice, there are some important details to keep in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey:
Parking in Venice can be a bit tricky, given the city's unique layout. Still, there are several convenient options available near the cruise terminal:
Onsite Parking: The Port of Venice offers parking options near the terminal, allowing for easy access to your ship. Pre-booking is highly recommended, especially during peak travel seasons. These parking lots are secure and offer both short-term and long-term rates.
Offsite Parking: If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, offsite parking facilities are available and often provide shuttle services to and from the terminal. Many offsite parking locations also offer extra services like car detailing so you can return to a clean vehicle after your cruise.
Venice boasts a range of hotels close to the cruise terminal, providing comfort and convenience if you require accommodation before or after your trip. Many hotels present complimentary shuttle services to the terminal, as well as easy access to Venice’s renowned attractions. Whether you prefer a luxurious five-star experience or a more budget-conscious stay, Venice has options to suit every traveler.
For last-minute shopping or souvenirs, there are several shopping areas near the Port of Venice:
Nave de Vero Shopping Mall: This large mall is close to the cruise terminal and features a variety of stores, from fashion things to electronics, as well as a selection of dining options.
Piazza San Marco: If you're looking for more high-end shopping, Venice’s most famous square offers luxury boutiques, local crafts, and fine jewelry shops. It’s a perfect place to purchase Venetian glass, lace, or other traditional Italian goods before you set sail.