April 01st, 2016

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We often hear from travelers that they don’t want to do only the “typical tourist things” when they jet off on their Italy tour or vacation package.

We often hear from travelers that they don’t want to do only the “typical tourist things” when they jet off on their Italy tour or vacation package. So we’re always thrilled to share the places locals enjoy going so you can really experience life here as residents do.

Naturally our amazing Avventure Bellissime Italy tour guides are always happy to make recommendations for popular local shops and businesses and this month we’re looking at places to visit while you’re on vacation in Venice.

Once you’ve enjoyed seeing the secrets of Venice on foot and from the water on our Original Venice Walk and Gondola Ride Special Offer, enjoyed a day trip like our Small Group Dolomites and Cortina Trip from Venice, or as you wait to shiver your way through a night time Original Venice Ghost and Legends Walking Tour, there are plenty of delightful diversions to fill your free time like a Venetian!

Here are some of the places our team likes best in this stunning, ancient city built on over a hundred small islands in the marshy lagoon that lies along the Adriatic Sea:

Worked up an appetite touring the sites but don’t want to feel under dressed? You can enjoy casual dining at the Cantina do Spade just steps away from S. Matteo di Rialto Church. Located in an historic building (food has been served on this site for centuries), you will be able to select from many traditional Venetian meals, including fish, rice, soup, or cakes for dessert (and of course have a nice glass of wine to sip!) and just relax.

For those who are looking for somewhere to eat that boasts some eclectic furnishings, a wonderful ambience, and a menu that plays with traditional Venetian cuisine, we recommend the utterly charming Osteria di Santa Marina. You can get appetizers and wine off their impressive wine list, or try some delicious fried fish or handmade pasta.

Time for a little treat? Hands down we recommend Suso Gelatoteca, which is also located just steps away from Rialto Bridge.

Their artisanal batches of Venetian ice creams are created without artificial colors from natural ingredients (and if you have food sensitivities, don’t despair - they accommodate many special dietary requirements - just ask!). Suso’s friendly service plus their delectable traditional and seasonal flavors will make you want to come back before you leave!

If you’re looking for something distinctly Venetian to take home as a souvenir, we know of an artisanal shop that’s good for your soles: Drop by PiedATerre near the Rialto to see the wonderful selection of sustainably made modern variations of traditional footwear they make by hand.

The soles are created from natural and recycled materials and the uppers - which at one time would have been plain cloth or velvet - come in a variety of fabrics. This centuries-old craftsmanship at @piedaterre_info has been updated with several different styles with whimsical names that evoke the style - like Wilde, Modigliani, and the (classic!) Audrey.

There are so many wonderful treasures of all sorts across the enchanting Veneto region, just waiting to be discovered. And our carefully selected, expert tour guides are ready to share the secrets of Venice and the surrounding areas with you!

Ready to book inspired vacation experiences in Venice, Italy? We are ready with ideas for adventures in the Veneto region: visit Avventure Bellissime online now to build your Italy vacation packages.