The 8 Best Things to Do for Couples in Venice

Italy has long been celebrated for its romantic atmosphere, with travelers flocking from around the world to connect with their significant others and keep the spark alive. But, when it comes to choosing one of the country’s most romantic destinations for a getaway, Venice takes the crown.

Often regarded as the most romantic city in Italy, Venice is enchanting at every turn. Along its canals, within its historic sights, and across its nearby islands, there are endless places where you can share a special moment with your loved one. You don’t have to just take it from us, as the countless couples that visit the city each year are enough of a testament to Venice’s romantic charm.

So, if you’re looking to make wonderful memories together as a couple, what should you fill your Venice itinerary with? Here at Italy4Real, our experts know all about the most romantic things to do in Venice and have handpicked magical experiences for you to choose from to make the most of your romantic escape in this city of love.

Watch the World Go By On a Gondola Ride  

At the top of our list of romantic things to do in Venice, a Gondola Ride along the city’s canal system is arguably one of the most unforgettable experiences for couples in Venice. Lean back and unwind as you take in the sights and simply enjoy one another’s company. 

Just picture this: being gently rowed along a canal, arms wrapped around one another, indulging in the sights and scenes of Venice from a new perspective. Romantic, right? So much so, in fact, that it is one of the most iconic Venice romantic experiences for couples. 

You’ll drift past ancient architecture, float beneath ornate bridges, and pass many visitors enjoying their time in the city. With nothing to do other than to sit back, relax, and marvel at the view – and one another – this is a hands-off and intimate experience that makes a change from wandering around Venice’s bustling streets. 

Our recommendation would be to get up early in the morning, before the peak of the day. This way, you can savor a more private moment with your loved one when the canals and streets of Venice are less busy. Or, if you’re looking to experience romantic Venice at night, head for a Gondola Ride at the end of the day when the lights of the city start to twinkle for a truly atmospheric experience.

Take In Blissful Views of the City at the San Giorgio Maggiore

What’s better than taking in a gorgeous view of Venice’s red-roofed and waterfront skyline? Doing so with the one you love the most during a romantic Venice getaway. 

The exquisite San Giorgio Maggiore is nestled across from St Mark’s Square – one of the city’s most iconic sights – on a charming island. It’s a wonderful destination where you can easily escape the hustle and bustle of Venice while admiring its grand design and Renaissance architecture. 

Beyond San Giorgio Maggiore’s exquisite structure and interiors, couples can climb the building’s bell tower for a romantic Venice moment. From here, soulmates will be treated to amazing panoramic views of Venice, overlooking the city’s iconic red-roofed skyline and popular sights like Saint Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace. 

Climbing the belltower at any time of day is a top-tier romantic Venice activity, but going at sunset really offers the cremé de la cremé of Venice views. While the city basques in a golden light as the sun goes down, simply enjoy this unmatched view of the city for a memorable moment with your partner that you’ll remember in years to come.

Discover The Doge’s Palace

As one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, the Doge’s Palace is a must-visit for couples during a romantic day in Venice. 

Couples exploring the city together will be utterly captivated by the palace’s grand structure. The palace was once the seat of Venetian power, dating back to 1340. Its impressive Gothic architecture can be admired from outside and inside, as the building is open to any visitors who want a glimpse into Venice’s rich history. 

Couples can roam the palace’s halls and be awestruck at the beautiful art collection on display. One of these pieces is world-famous – Tintoretto’s Paradise – as it is one of the largest oil paintings in history. Those who explore further will find the palace’s golden staircase, with delicate gold embellishments that lead up to what was once the Doge’s private quarters. 

At every turn in this monumental building, couples will have the opportunity to marvel at magnificent frescoes and artworks, lavish decorations, and ornate interiors that give a true glimpse into Venice’s grand past. So, if you’re looking for things to do for couples in Venice, a trip to the Doge’s Palace is a worthwhile addition to any itinerary.

Smooch Under The Bridge of Sighs

One of the best places in Venice to share a special moment with your loved one can be found just beside the Doge’s Palace, and sharing a smooch here might just bring you good luck too. 

The iconic Bridge of Sighs is world-renowned, and its unusual name of course has some bittersweet history behind it . The bridge was actually once the route that prisoners would be led along from the Doge’s Palace to the prisons. The prisoners were said to sigh as they crossed the bridge, being able to catch one last glimpse of Venice before having to serve their sentences in the depths of the palace’s prison.

The bridge’s limestone arch curves over one of Venice’s canals. So, if you are considering a Gondola Ride as one of your romantic things to do in Venice, make sure you choose a route that takes you to the well-known bridge. According to local folk tales, couples who kiss under the bridge are bound to find love and happiness forever. So, if you want your love to last forever, be sure to share a special kiss as you pass underneath it!

Enjoy a Romantic Stroll Along the Zattere

One of the most walked stretches of the city, the Zaterre is a charming promenade running along the southern shore of Venice’s Dorsoduro District. Its wide paved street is lined with colorful buildings and traditional lamp posts, creating a beautiful setting in which couples can peacefully admire the city’s waterfront views.

During a romantic Venice getaway, a Venetian stroll along the Zattere promenade is a lovely pastime where you can unwind after a day out with your loved one, and even stop to admire the sunset if you come at the right hour. You can perch on the side of the paving and glance over the Giudecca Canal out towards Giudecca Island. You’ll also be able to see some of the city’s most striking landmarks such as the Church of Redentore and even St Mark’s Basilica in the distance. For the perfect laid-back addition to a day in Venice, a stroll along the Zattere is just what you need.

Indulge in a Romantic Meal for Two on Torcello Island

No romantic Venice getaway would be complete without sitting down with your partner to indulge in delicious Italian cuisine. For those in need of inspiration, we’d recommend heading to the enchanting Torcello Island one day in Venice to make the most of its many charming traditional restaurants where you can have a romantic lunch or dinner for two. 

The tranquil island of Torcello, which Ernest Hemingway himself loved, is a secluded spot that you can reach easily by boat from Venice. It is home to only 75 inhabitants and has lush landscapes with marshlands, fields, and vineyards. Its secluded location and rustic charm make for a tranquil escape from the city of Venice. 

You will find plenty of authentic eateries on the island, where you can tuck into fresh Italian cuisine from handmade pizzas to hearty pasta and seafood dishes. After savoring the local flavors, you can meander around the island and admire its natural beauty before heading back to the city – a simple yet unforgettable day in Venice with the one you love.

Watch an Intimate Opera Performance at Teatro La Fenice

Italy is known for its operas, so visiting Venice and not at least catching a performance at its very own Teatro La Fenice would be a missed opportunity. We’d say that watching an opera is one of the most romantic things to do in Venice, with this opera house’s opulent setting being the perfect excuse to dress up for a date night and watch incredible performances live. Previous performances hosted at the Teatro have included romantic ballet shows, alongside some of the most iconic operas in the world, like La Bohème or La Traviata. 

Settle down in one of the theatre’s golden balconies or red plush seats and be prepared to be awestruck by any one of the spellbinding performances you could watch, for a unique romantic Venice activity.

Take Home a Souvenir of Your Romantic Getaway from Murano Island

What better way to eternalize your romantic Venice getaway than by bringing home a souvenir of your travels? Near Venice’s city centre, only a short boat ride away, lies Murano Island. You may have heard of Murano Glass, which is known for its distinct characteristics and intricate design. Well, it is made only on the island of Murano near Venice, making it a truly unique and one-of-a-kind souvenir that you can take home from your trip.

Meet the local artisans on the island, who have been honing their craft and technique to create detailed Murano glass pieces for years, with no one artwork being the same as the next. Whether you purchase a set of glasses that you can use to raise a glass at home (which would pair beautifully with a bottle of local Italian wine!) or any other intricate Murano glassware, it will be a beautiful memory of your trip to Venice for a romantic getaway.

Summary

During a romantic Venice getaway, you and your partner won’t just be falling head over heels for each other, but for the city’s historic charm and enchanting sights. With there being a wealth of things to do for couples in Venice, you can personalize your trip to make it magical for you and your loved one. 

Whether a romantic gondola ride along the city’s winding canals has caught your eye, or you’d prefer a tranquil trip to the nearby Torcello Island, we hope this article has given you a slice of what’s in store for you and your partner when you decide to visit Venice for a romantic trip.
Keen to discover Venice but don’t know where to start? Our experts here at Italy4Real have years of experience crafting private tours for couples. You can choose from our range of existing Venice tours to get a classic experience of the city, or you can get in touch with a member of our team today to create the perfect Italy tour for you.

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