Planning a trip to Venice? Here’s exactly what we did on Day 1, how we arrived in style by water taxi, where we stayed, what we explored, and the romantic restaurant you need to try.
Venice Day 1 – Our Italy Diary Begins in the City of Canals
Venice has always been at the top of our dream destination list. The mystery, the beauty, the quiet water lined streets, there’s nowhere else like it. So when we had the chance to visit, I didn’t hesitate for a second.
Arriving in Venice by Water Taxi Like James Bond
We flew into Venice from London, and I have to say, it was one of the most seamless travel days we’ve had. After landing, we easily navigated the airport and headed straight for the private water taxi dock. We had booked our ride in advance with Motoscafi Venezia and it was worth every euro.
If you’re planning your first trip to Venice, book a water taxi. It’s the most cinematic way to enter the city, and honestly, it felt like a James Bond moment. Gliding through the canals with the wind in your hair is a memory you won’t forget.
Where We Stayed: A Historic Palace on the Grand Canal
We decided to stay in an Airbnb this time, and we truly lucked out. The apartment was part of a historic palazzo in the San Polo neighborhood, right on the Grand Canal. According to the listing, it had been in the same family since the 1500s—passed down through generations via dowry and inheritance.
San Polo was the perfect neighborhood for us. It felt local and lived-in but was still close enough to walk to all the major sights.
Afternoon Wandering Through Venice
After settling in, we set off to explore on foot. In Venice, there are no cars, so you walk or take a boat everywhere. That’s part of what makes it feel like a step back in time. We wandered tiny alleys, crossed charming bridges, and stumbled into wide piazzas. We stopped for gelato and kept walking without a plan. That’s the beauty of Venice, you’re supposed to get lost. It’s how you find the magic.
A Hidden Gem for Dinner: Trattoria De Ignazio
As we wandered through a quiet part of the city, we passed a hidden garden lit with candles and ivy. There was no sign, just an open iron gate and warm light spilling out. It felt like a movie set.
We almost didn’t go in, but I’m so glad we did. It turned out to be one of the best meals of our entire trip. Fresh pasta, warm bread, great wine, and the kindest waiter who insisted we try the house favorite. It was a crab linguine unlike anything we’ve tasted back home.
We later found out the restaurant was family-run and had been in the neighborhood for generations. We saw the owner’s mother cooking in the kitchen. It felt personal and unforgettable.
If you’re visiting Venice, I can’t recommend this place enough: Trattoria De Ignazio
What to Wear in Venice
Venice is all about comfort meets elegance. For Day 1, I wore a neutral midi dress and flat sandals. You’ll walk a lot, so keep shoes comfy but cute.
