From the Canals

 

Just like you can't go to Paris without visiting the Eiffel Tower, you can't go to Venice without riding in a gondola. It's expensive, it's a cliche, but it's one to tick off the bucket list! After all, you can't fight those touristy temptations forever...

If you're on a budget, you'd be forgiven for giving the gondola ride a miss. Half an hour costs 80 euros, which soars up to 100 in the evening. You won't find a cheaper option as all the gondolas are run by the same company (unless, of course, you befriend a local and somehow get a ride in their own boat... if anyone has succeeded in this, please let me know how!). Although bargain hunters may be disappointed at this fixed price, it's actually a bit of a blessing in disguise, as you won't have the worry that you are being conned by a cheeky overpriced gondolier.

If you are looking to save some euros though, the gondolas seat up to 6 people, still at the overall price of 80 euros. So, if you can find a few mates, it is possible to only spend 20 euros for a ride!

So choose your gondolier and hop on board!

From Saint Mark's Square we bobbed along over the waves of the lagoon and under the first bridge. Prepare to be caught in a lot of photos as people snap your gondola passing by beneath.

Get up close to the famous Bridge of Sighs.

And through the quiet back canals. Sit back as you listen to the water peacefully lapping against the boat and watch in awe as the gondolier masterfully manoeuvres around the tightest of corners.

You'll want to glide on the water and explore the maze of canals all day, but before you know it you'll be back on dry land and back on your feet.

If you're going to take a break from walking around Venice, sitting in a gondola is the way to do it!

Love, Beth xxx