What to See, Do and Eat in Venice: Tips from a Local Guide

We love getting to know the guide on our platform, and love getting tips from them about the best ways to experience their hometowns. Today we’re joined by Silvia a local guide in the legendary city of Venice, Italy.

Why did you choose to become a guide in Venice?

Since I was a little girl, I used to dream about travelling around the world but, after having spent years abroad leading groups, after graduation I decided to stop. I realised that having the chance to walk around and show my own unique city to visitors would be an even more stimulating profession.

In a sentence or two, tell us what you love most about Venice?

My hometown is absolutely unique, made of 118 man-made islands reclaimed from the water by sheer human will. Venice has been a special place where East meets West ever since it was founded 1600 years ago: a beautiful place with a longstanding history and incredible artistic heritage.

What top 3 things should we not miss when visiting Venice?

1. The Rialto food market early in the morning where you can see the produce from our islands and the daily catches from our local fishermen. 2. The Golden Mosaics decorating the ceiling of St Mark's Cathedral. 3. A panoramic boat ride on the Grand Canal to better appreciate Venice from its natural element: the water.

What’s the best place to go for a memorable photo?

Definitely from the top of the Belltower of the Church of San Giorgio Maggiore or the Custom House tip overlooking St Mark's basin.

Tell us one local food everyone visiting Venice should try.

A deep fried meatball with a glass of wine or some Buranelli cookies with a good cup of Espresso coffee. Depends on the time of day!

What is your favourite local restaurant/café to recommend?

The "Cantinone già Schiavi" in Dorsoduro district. This is a great place to taste our local Venetian "tapas" aka cicchetti.

What’s your favourite place to celebrate a special occasion?

A nice little place in Santa Croce district called "LA ZUCCA" is one of my favorite places to taste original and unexpected flavors all accompanied by seasonal vegetables. For the seafood lovers, I would recommend another great address in San Polo, not far from the Rialto market: "LE ANTICHE CARAMPANE." It’s an intimate and informal place where people can go to taste the real traditional Venice.

Can you share one thing travellers probably don't know about Venice?

During WWII, Venice was the only city where movie production continued, as it remained one of the safest areas in Italy. The Scalera movie company produced many movies and their studios were located on Giudecca island. Giudecca, which was a flourishing industrial district in the past, is normally neglected by tourists, but it's a very peaceful and nice residential area full of curiosities and anecdotes to be told. Consider a visit here!

Want to see Venice in the company of a fantastic local guide? Reach out to Silvia to plan the perfect tour for you!