It’s no surprise that Venice has become one of the most romantic cities in the world, if not the MOST romantic destination ever.
The canals, charming bridges, narrow alleyways and timeless architecture, make it easy to see why so many couples decide to visit it for a romantic escape.
Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, anniversary, elopement, or simply a special escape, this guide will help you discover what makes Venice such a beloved destination for couples—and how to make the most of your time together.
Venice for Couples
Walking along the canals at dusk or catching the sunset over the lagoon, it doesn’t take much to understand why lovers keep coming back.
This guide will help you with:
- Discover the most romantic things to do in Venice
- Choose the right neighbourhood and hotel for your couple style
- Plan special activities and once-in-a-lifetime moments
- Explore beyond the usual and live Venice like a local
With no further ado, let’s dive into this guide so you can start planning your romantic trip to Venice and create unforgettable moments made just for two.
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Why Venice is the perfect place for couples
I’ve helped so many people with planning their trip and whether you’re the adventurous type or the slow-living kind of couple, Venice has something for you.
Here’s why this city is so perfect for two:
- It’s made for slow travel: There are no cars in Venice, so everything happens on foot or by boat. This naturally slows down your pace, allowing you to truly enjoy the little things: a quiet walk by the water, a coffee in a hidden square, or simply watching gondolas go by.
- It’s full of hidden corners: Every turn can lead to something beautiful: a bridge, a dead-end on a quiet canal, a secret garden. The city invites you to get lost, and what better way to do that than hand in hand?
- You can create meaningful memories: From cooking together in a Venetian home to watching the sun melt into the lagoon, the memories you create in Venice will last a lifetime. It’s not about ticking off a list, but about the quality of time spent together.
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Venice for Couples (10 things to know)
1. Find a special neighbourhood
It might seem like a detail, but choosing the right sestiere (neighbourhood) can really shape your experience. Each neighbourhood has its own vibe and character.
I suggest that you take a look at my neighbourhood maps if you want to find out some of my favourite things to see, do and experience in your chosen sestiere!
- San Marco is in the heart of the city. It’s busy and touristy but great if you want to be close to the action. Some hotels here offer Grand Canal views.
- Castello is quiet and residential, great for strolls away from crowds thanks to green spaces like Giardini della Biennale and Parco delle Rimembranze.
- Dorsoduro has a creative and bohemian feel, filled with art galleries and artisan shops.
- Cannaregio is a lively local neighbourhood, great for foodies and couples who want to discover the more authentic, everyday Venice.
- Santa Croce is the sestiere near the bus and train station. It’s very convenient if you’re arriving with luggage or planning day trips.
- San Polo offers local charm, great for food-loving couples.
If you’re at all unsure about where to stay, check out my guides on choosing the best neighbourhood in Venice for your particular travel style and budget.
2. Choosing a special hotel
Where you stay can really influence how your trip feels, and when you’re travelling as a couple. It’s even more important to find the right place that reflects your style and fits the kind of experience you want to have together.
Venice has literally thousands of options, from boutique B&Bs to luxury hotels, design apartments and charming guesthouses tucked away in quiet corners.
To narrow it down, ask yourself a few key questions:
- What’s your budget? Venice can be pricey, but there are lovely stays in every price range.
- What services or facilities really matter to you? Do you want breakfast with a view, bathtub with candles, or room service after a long day of exploring?
- Will you arrive by water taxi? If yes, see if the hotel has direct canal access.
- Do you dream of waking up to a Grand Canal view with the sound of boats gliding by? Or, would you prefer a quiet back canal where the only sounds are gondoliers and church bells?
If it’s your first time in Venice, or you’re celebrating something special (like an anniversary, honeymoon or elopement), my suggestion is to choose a hotel that feels a bit extra. It doesn’t have to be luxury, but it should feel you, and if that means paying a little more for one or two nights, I promise it’s worth it.
One place I’ve personally stayed and loved is Bloom Settimo Cielo, a boutique B&B in the San Marco neighbourhood. It’s tucked away from the crowds, but still central enough to walk everywhere.
The highlights? A bottle of chilled Prosecco on arrival, beautifully designed rooms, and a rooftop terrace where you can enjoy the views at sunset.
For me, it was quiet, romantic and just felt… special.
If you’re interested in staying at Bloom Settimo Cielo, feel free to email me, I’ll be happy to share a special discount you can use when booking directly with them.
3. Romantic proposals
If you’re planning to pop the question, there are several ways you can do it, from scenic viewpoints to romantic restaurants or quiet corners by the canal.
Here are a few ideas to consider:
- Campanile di San Giorgio Maggiore: This bell tower across from St. Mark’s offers stunning panoramic views without the crowds of the main Campanile.
- Scala Contarini del Bovolo: a secret spiral staircase tucked behind Campo Manin. Climb to the top and enjoy a quiet moment, it’s ideal if you want privacy and a unique backdrop.
- Punta della Dogana: A peaceful spot with lagoon views, perfect for golden hour or a sunrise proposal.
- On a gondola ride: It may sound cliché, but it can be incredibly romantic, especially with a serenade or at dusk. Some gondoliers are used to helping coordinate surprise proposals.
- Restaurants with a view: For a seat by the window next to the canal, consider Ristorante ai Barbacani or Ristorante Sempione for the ultimate romantic setting.
- Campiello del Remer: Tucked away near Rialto, this small campo has a magical view of the Grand Canal and the Rialto Bridge. Go for aperitivo or dinner at Taverna al Remer, then propose right after when the square is quiet and softly lit.
- Rooftop terraces: If you’re staying at a hotel with a rooftop (many boutique places offer this), ask the staff to help you prepare a small setup.
- Sunset boat tour: Prefer something unique? Do a private boat ride around the lagoon at sunset with a bottle of wine, and propose as the city starts to glow.
4. How to find Sunset spots
Sunsets in Venice can be absolutely magical, especially if you know where to go. Most of the best spots are along the outer edge of the city where the canals open up to the lagoon, and the reflections of the sky turn golden pink.
🗺️ I noted my favourite viewpoints in my Venice Unlocked Visitor Map.
Here are my top recommendations for couples:
- Zattere (in Dorsoduro): A long fondamenta facing Giudecca Island. Grab a seat near Gelateria Nico, get a gianduiotto, or order a Spritz and just enjoy.
- Fondamenta dei Sette Martiri (Castello): A wide promenade with benches, locals walking their dogs, and a clear view of the lagoon.
- Baia del Re (Cannaregio): Still quite a secret, quiet, peaceful and full of atmosphere.
- Fondamenta Nove (North side): Facing the lagoon and islands like San Michele and Murano. The light here is beautiful at the end of the day.
- Burano from Pescheria Vecia viewpoint. From here you can catch some of the best sunsets of whole Venetian lagoon.
If you want something a little more elevated:
- St. Mark’s Campanile: Climb just before golden hour for an incredible bird’s-eye view over Venice and the lagoon.
- San Giorgio Maggiore Bell Tower: Even better for sunset because it faces the city directly. Fewer crowds and the light hits the domes and rooftops perfectly.
- Hilton Molino Stucky: Located on Giudecca Island, it has one of the best rooftop bars (and even a pool!). You can check the prices here and you don’t even need to be a guest to go up for a drink. Sunset from here is breathtaking.
Hotel tip: Choose a hotel with canal or lagoon views so you can also enjoy golden hour in your bathrobe from your window, no extra planning needed.
5. A catamaran trip
While gondolas are the classic Venetian experience, this catamaran tour offers something completely different—wide open views of the lagoon, salty air, and the kind of freedom you don’t expect to find in Venice.
I joined one of these tours last year and honestly loved every minute of it. There are lunch, Spritz, sunrise and night catamaran cruise you can book daily from April to October. You’ll pass places you might not see on foot, Giudecca Canal, Lido shoreline, and other smaller little known islands in the middle of the lagoon.
It’s also a great alternative for couples who want a break from the crowds without leaving the city.
6. Romantic Restaurants
You don’t need to search hard to find a romantic restaurant in Venice—but if you want something genuinely good and not touristy, here are some trusted favourites for a special dinner for two:
- Algiubagiò (Fondamente Nove): With its lagoon-facing terrace and beautifully plated dishes, this spot is ideal for a romantic lunch or dinner with a breeze and soft light from the north side of Venice.
- Riviera (Zattere): Refined, elegant, and modern. This restaurant is ideal for celebrating special occasions and offers one of the most beautiful waterfront settings in the city.
- Osteria alla Frasca (Cannaregio): An intimate and quiet place for couples who love traditional cuisine with a seasonal twist.
- Osteria La Zucca (Santa Croce): Cosy and down-to-earth, this is a fantastic pick for vegetarian or veggie-curious couples.
- Bistrot de Venise (San Marco): A unique experience that blends Venetian history and fine dining. The menu features reinterpretations of ancient recipes from the Renaissance period alongside refined modern dishes.
- Terrazza Danieli: One of the most iconic views in the city, overlooking the lagoon and San Giorgio Maggiore. It’s a classic splurge-worthy spot, especially at sunset. Just remember to book well in advance.
For all of these, I recommend booking ahead, especially in high season or if you’re visiting for a celebration.
7. Gondola Ride with Serenade or Photo shoot
A gondola ride is a must for couples, but you can make it even more personal by adding a serenade or hiring a photographer to capture the special moment.
- Serenade: Some gondoliers work with local musicians who will sing classic Venetian or Italian songs while you glide through the canals. A great choice if you’re after something atmospheric and a bit theatrical.
- Photo shoot: There are photographers in Venice who specialise in gondola portraits, ideal if you’re marking an anniversary, engagement, or just want to capture the trip.
If you’re not up for singing or photos, just go for a quiet ride at dusk through the smaller canals near San Polo, Dorsoduro, or Castello, it’s more peaceful and a lot less crowded than the Grand Canal. You can book on the spot, but if you want the serenade or a specific route, it’s usually better to reserve in advance.
+ Book your Gondola with Serenade
8. Escape the city
If you’re spending more than two or three days in Venice, one of the best things to do as a couple is plan a little escape, either within the lagoon or just beyond it.
Taking a short break from the crowded tourist areas not only gives you a chance to experience a quieter, more intimate side of the Veneto Region, you’ll come back with a fresh perspective and avoid getting overwhelmed by the crowds.
Here are some of my favourite options for couples:
- Murano and Burano: These two islands are perfect for a day out. You can either take the vaporetto or join a private boat tour with a local guide (highly recommended if you want to avoid the touristy side of things). Murano is all about glassmaking and canals, while Burano is colourful, charming, and very photogenic.
- Lido: Ideal if you’re visiting in spring or summer and want a more relaxed, beachy vibe. Rent bikes, have lunch by the sea, or enjoy a quieter pace. It’s 15 minutes by vaporetto from central Venice but feels like a different world.
- Treviso and Padua: These two towns are an easy train ride away and full of charm. Treviso is great for couples who love riverside walks and local wine, while Padua is a university town with history, art, and lovely piazzas.
- The Prosecco Hills: If you’re into wine and countryside views, this one’s for you. You can join a day tour from Venice or and explore vineyards, villages perched in the rolling hills and mediaeval towns like Valdobbiadene and Conegliano. You can also arrange your own wine tasting and I recommend Cal Monda winery in Pieve di Soligo. My favourite restaurant here is Locanda Sandi which it’s perfect for a couple meal, whereas .
- Dolomites or Lake Garda: If you’re the outdoorsy type of couple, these destinations offer something completely different: mountain air, alpine lakes, and scenic views. Lake Garda in particular is less than two hours away by high-speed train and very popular among couples of all ages.
Maddy’s Tip: Escaping the city isn’t just about sightseeing, it’s about giving yourselves the space to slow down, reconnect, and experience something new together.
9. Take romantic photos
You don’t need a professional photographer to come home with beautiful pictures from Venice, this city does half the work for you. All you have to do is wander, explore, and let the backdrop speak for itself.
Whether you’re snapping phone shots or carrying a camera, here are some of the most romantic photo spots in Venice:
- Ponte Chiodo: One of the last bridges in Venice with no parapet. A quiet, unique place with a traditional feel.
- Rialto Bridge: Come early in the morning or just after sunset to avoid the crowds. The light is beautiful and the views over the Grand Canal are always stunning.
- Caffè Florian: Possibly the most elegant coffee break you’ll ever have in Piazza San Marco.
- Ponte de le Maravegie (Dorsoduro): A peaceful bridge with a postcard-perfect setting. Make sure to learn about its romantic and sad past.
- Fondamenta Zattere: Perfect for soft light and long, open shots by the water.
- Rio de San Moisé: Near Hotel San Moise, where gondolas often pass under charming bridges.
- Scala Contarini del Bovolo: That spiral staircase again, worth a second mention for its architecture and view.
- Riva degli Schiavoni: Where gondolas line up along the waterfront with San Giorgio in the background.
- Bridge of Sighs: The iconic shot, especially beautiful from Ponte della Paglia and Palazzo delle Prigioni.
- Royal Gardens and Caffè La Serra: Quiet, green, and a peaceful break from the stone and canals.
Maddy’s Tip: Take your time. You’ll find photo opportunities in the least expected corners. A hidden bridge, a doorway covered in flowers, or a small campo with a lone streetlight can make for the most personal and meaningful memories.
10. Lean how to cook together
If you’re the kind of couple who loves to not just see a place, but experience it hands-on, then a cooking class in Venice is an activity to add to your trip.
I joined the Venice cooking experience with Sebastiano, a local who opened his apartment in Cannaregio to teach us how to make pasta from scratch. You’ll eat what you prepare, so come hungry!
It’s a lovely way to spend a few hours, especially on a rainy day or if you just want to slow down and connect with Venetian life beyond the tourist circuit.
Cooking together is one of those things that stays with you, and every time you make fresh pasta at home, you’ll be reminded of this little moment in Venice.
Venice for Couples
Now you should have a better idea of how many special things you can do in Venice as a couple, from sharing a sunset on a quiet fondamenta.
Then, if you wish to sail through the lagoon, take romantic photos in hidden corners, and even learn how to make pasta together, you can.
Whether you’re here for a short getaway, a honeymoon, or a big celebration, Venice has that rare ability to make ordinary moments feel magical.
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