2018’s Nickolaou European Family Trip (Part 3 – Venice)

As you step off the train and take in one of the world’s most romantic cities, you pause for the fact you are experience something wonderful.   Can you imagine seeing Venice as a child and pondering the incredible city built on water.  Even as an adult I was awe struck at this.  Venice is a incredible place that creates that wonder, from the gondolas through the canals, the endless cobblestone streets, the massive churches, the incredible food, and even the pigeons.  Our first time in Venice was special.

Now it is important to understand, there are NO cars in Venice.  Be prepared to walk.  If you are a ‘heavy’ traveler you must get a luggage valet when you get into town.   From the train station, you can either take a water taxi to your hotel or climb the 100+ stairs to the city.  We typically like to walk in these situation as it helps the family get their bearings, however the stairs were no joke. Keep that in mind.

Our first day in Venice we spent the afternoon just exploring and admiring the atmosphere.  We walked to Basilica San Marco where we took photos in the plaza, fed the pigeons, and watched the boats pass.  The time was well spent and if you are lucky, you will see some fantastic street performers.  These are the moments I personally find what makes a memorable trip.  Unplanned instances where the family can be together.  That was exploration day.

We capped off day one with a remarkable dinner in a courtyard just steps away from Piazza San Marco.  After dinner, my mother & aunt took the ultimate Venice experience, the famous gondola tour.  This cost around €100 for half an hour in the evening.

Day two we took off early back to St. Mark’s Square, where we had self guided tours to the Basilica San Marco, Doge’s Place, and Torre dell’Orologio (the clock tower).  The tour was fantastic as it allowed you to skip the lines, the Basilica is truly one of the most beautiful churches with absolute awe in the design and the presence it garners in St. Mark’s Square.  The beautiful golden mosaics and master art pieces is a spot you don’t want to miss.

After the tours, we explored St. Mark’s Square again, took a ton of photos and fed the pigeons.  It is truly a captivating space that you can lose track of time.  Venice can totally be for kids and they will have a ton of fun, as mine said “the city with the water streets.”