28-05-18

Venice, Italy / 2 nights

A short story as to why part of my heart and soul is in Venice.

Unbelievably, before our trip the only places on our route which I had previously visited were Paris and Venice. Very bizarre looking back at it now how I didn’t take full advantage of being near Europe. Well I say that but I am only 20 so no need to be so harsh on myself.

It has only been 7 months since we last visited Venice, it was my present to Ben for his 21st, hence why we only stayed the 2 nights. Although, this is the first time on the trip where I’ve felt like I could have stayed longer in a location. However, I believe this is probably just greed as I have been lucky enough to stay in this beautiful city before. Therefore, if you’re going to Venice make your trip a minimum of 3 nights.

Why do I love Venice so much? It’s such a brilliant question and half of the answer really is just unexplainable. There is something about the city which encapsulates my whole being. It just feels right being there and walking out of that train station and instantly seeing the Grand Canal, a sigh of relief came over me, that feeling of, ‘I’m back home’. Now don’t get me wrong, it’s not my actual Home and yes you’re right, the only Italian words I have in me are ‘ciao’ and ‘grazie’ and yes, the only pasta I know how to make is when I heat up an M&S pasta bake dish but that is not the point right now and let’s not rain on my parade. The point is that it offers the exact lifestyle I aspire to have one day.

The tranquility. The friendliness. The food. The people. The ‘I’m never in a rush’ mood. The calmness of the water. The architecture. The only transportation mode of boats. The gondolas. The singing gondola men. The cute outfits the gondola men wear. Can you tell I like the gondolas. The magnificent of Rialto bridge. The forever busy hub which is the Grand Canal. Getting lost in the tiny side streets. The back streets which can only accommodate the width of one person. The constant sound of water lapping up against the canal walls. Need I must go on?

The Venice must do’s that I shall recommend come from both this current Interrail trip but also of the trip we made there 7 months ago.

Firstly of course, has to be a gondola ride. A heads up, it is rather pricey and of course it is a tourist trap as no Venetian uses these to get to work but it is a must do! They take you right out on the Grand Canal dodging all the boats 10x their size and also down all the tiny canals big enough for only a gondola. This is the greatest way to really see Venice, on its canal waters.

Probably my biggest highlight of Venice and a trip I’m so glad we made was to Burano. This island is about a 30 minute boat ride from the piers by St Marks Square. Home to the most perfectly painted homes looking like the best B&Q advert you’ll ever see! No building is painted dull here, glowing with exquisite colours, market stalls run by Burano residents and more canals than you can shake a stick at. You will not regret taking a trip here.

Side note: make sure you where a lively coloured outfit as chances are high that you’ll find a house that colour matches you exactly making for the perfect opportunity you can see below.

Right now onto the real deal. Pizza and pasta. During our last trip to Venice, Ben and I found the most perfect places for unforgettable Italian food. So much so that we’ve been dreaming of it ever since and was a main part as to why we added Venice as a stop on our trip.

Best Pizza: Farinis

The most delicious soft pizza base with a great crisp on the bottom and crusts. There are two of these delightful Pizza heavens in Venice, one not located too far from Rialto Bridge. If you end up heading there then go for the Four Cheeses Pizza. I promise, you will not regret the €3 for a slice.

Best Takeaway Pasta: We ♥️ Italy

Located on a tiny side street also close to Rialto is the most award winning pasta. I think it may possible taste nicer as it comes in the cutest takeaway box like the ones you see in movies when characters get a takeaway noodle pot. You get to choose a style of pasta and then a sauce and toppings. My personal favourite would have to be a classic Tagliatelle pasta with Bolognese sauce, of course with a topping of cheese. There is a small square located near by where we then take a seat and indulge in taste bud heaven whilst watching the world go by.

Overall, the most perfect way to see Venice is by getting lost. Just constantly walk and if you see a lane with no one down it, wonder down there. It’s then where you will discover the locals sitting outside cafes together consuming espressos and aperol spritz’s. I would bet everything I had on saying you will not regret visiting Venice and if you didn’t leave feeling utterly magical, I don’t think you saw the Venice which I did.

Peace and love,

Yasmin x