Doing Italy The Right Way! Part 1 – Venice

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Ah… Italy. Historic architectures and a brilliant scenery- it’s a feast for the eyes, mind and body. If you’re trying to satisfy the inner wanderlust, Italy is the way to go baby! Let me take you through the brilliance of Italy.

Since this trip was packed with more than one city, I will be breaking the trip down to four parts : Venice, Florence, Assisi, and, finally, Rome.

Each part will include a detailed description of what flights, hotels, eats and excursions we did during the trip.

We planned this trip at the end of October of 2019 so, this piece was way overdue. LOL. Sorry, guys! But, I believe my group chose October, because it was the cheapest! Flights and all. We, also, went with a church. Altogether, I spent around $4,000 for 11 days. Don’t let the price tag discourage your lust for traveling.

Without further ado, come Rome with me (hehe) to the first city of beautiful Italy: Venice.

Flights

We left Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport at around 10 am and was delayed over in Denver, Colorado for about 5 hours….

At around 6 pm, we finally boarded Delta Airlines!

We had another stop in Paris, France for about 3 hours until we reached Venice Marco Polo Airport. I know this doesn’t sound pleasant but, it was really worth it. I definitely promise!

The flight had a smooth take off and a soft landing. The pilot KNEW how to fly THAT plane. We had little to no turbulence and I slept like a little baby. We made land to Venice Marco Polo Airport where we were greeted with other church members from other states. Even though we were all strangers, they welcomed us from a safe flight! Positive vibes were definitely radiated. The jet lag was real, y’all. Nevertheless, I was ready to take on Italy.

Click that button below to find flights!

Hotels

We stayed at Quality Hotel Delfino for a night where we found the prices were less than $50 USD per night!

Location: Corso del Popolo, 211, 30172 Venezia VE, Italy

The rooms were a little compacted but, it did not bother me at all. We were only going to stay for a night before going to Florence the next day and we were out majority of the day.

If you’re on a budget, staying in Mestre will definitely help. Because, it is a more sizable town than Venice, there are more lodging facilities. Thus, it is cheaper.

Venice is only a bus/tram ride away that costs around $4 USD. If you choose to stay here, the bus stop to Venice is right in front of Hotel Ambasciatori which is less than a minute walk away!

Eats!!!! (My favorite part of the trip!)

Hotel Ambasciatori Upstairs Restaurant

After a draining day of flying, we were able to settle in and have dinner at Hotel Ambasciatori Venezia Mestre which was next door to Hotel Delfino. We went to the bar on the side of the lobby where I sipped on an Aperol Spritz while we waited for the restaurant upstairs to open. My bartender did not disappoint me. The Aperol Spritz was refreshing and sweet that rejuvenated my senses! I loved it so much that I forgot to take a picture.

Once the restaurant was open, we were escorted to our table and the prepared menu was initiated. We had a variety of bread with silky smooth butter as a snack before our entree. I am a carb maniac so I went through two baskets guilt-free!

Next, our entree was rigatoni with meat sauce and I thought it was significantly different from what I was used to in America because, it was drier and the rigatoni had a little crunch to them. It was still delicious. I was just a little taken back.

Lastly, the star of the meal. Flan with blueberry compote. It was very light and velvety. I couldn’t put my spoon down. Before I knew it, I was staring down at an empty plate! :'(

This cute little street restaurant located in San Marco Metropolitan City of Venice is quick and easy to order from. If you just want to grab and go to maximize sightseeing time, this is the place. I love how all the pastas are made in-house and the display of a variety of Italian desserts were mouthwatering. It was aesthetically pleasing to the eyes.

Ristoranti Taverna Dei Dogi

Location: Calle degli Albanesi, 4250, 30122 Venezia VE, Italy

This cozy and intimate restaurant is located on the Castello island and was difficult to find. I had to walk through an alley to get to this little gem. We ordered the dry and tart Chianti wine paired beautifully with the penne bolognese. It was DELISH!

Hütte – Gelato

Italy, in general, is known for their rich and creamy gelato. There are shops at every corner! I happen to stop by this little dainty shop and got the Tiramisu gelato. I almost asked for four scoops, but “ya girl” resisted. Recommend this stop.

Goppion Caffe’

THE BEST CANNOLI. Of course there are other desserts and wraps that they offer but, oh my good gravy! I got the pistachio cannoli and it was… AMAZING. Let me tell you, baby! I had a mouth orgasm. It was creamy and velvety pistachio cream engulfed in a buttery, flaky pastry shell. I bought so many.

Excursions

Doge’s Palace – €25.00

Location: Piazza San Marco, 1, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy

Founded in 1340, Italian Palazzo Ducale is the staple Venetian Gothic architecture of Venice. This landmark was one of the most fruitful experiences I’ve had. The Bridge of Sighs is connected to the palace which I found interesting. You’ll definitely learn a lot of the Venetian government history. Be in line by 8:30 am to beat long lines.

Vecchia Murano

Location:  Sestiere, Calle Seconda de la Fava, 4392A, 30122 Venezia VE, Italy

A free beautiful glass show that will mesmerize you. This elegant and extravagant glass showcase is located right behind The Bridge of Sighs. I came here with my group and were fortunate enough to see the glass sculpting demonstration, but it was an expensive tourist trap due to the salesmen/women.

Museo Vetrario (The Glass House)– €12

This is an alternative glass excursion and fairly inexpensive yet still magical.

Click here for more information!

Let me know if this was helpful or if you would like to chime in with some of your suggestions for future travelers by commenting below!

Sharing is caring my little gallivants.

~Love, Yumi

P.S. There are countless companies that have an all-inclusive package with flights, hotels, and restaurants. Go Ahead Tours is one of the companies that offer insanely cheap packages without the stress! Of course, you will be traveling with a group but, who don’t want to make friends along the way?