Hotel Cipriani, A Belmond Hotel, Venice

The best time to visit Venice is in June, when temperatures are warm (27°C) and rain is less frequent, or in September, which is still pleasant (24°C) with fewer crowds. May is the rainiest month with 15 rain days, while July and August are the hottest, reaching 29°C. The famous Carnival in February is a well-documented festival, but the weather is cooler and damp. For comfortable sightseeing, aim for late spring or early autumn.

Stay in San Marco for first-time visitors, close to Piazza San Marco, the Doge's Palace, and the Basilica, with hotels like The St. Regis Venice and Monaco & Grand Canal Venice. Cannaregio offers a more local feel near the Jewish Ghetto and the Rialto Bridge, with options like Ca' Sagredo Hotel and Venice Times Hotel. Castello, east of San Marco, is quieter and residential, with Hotel Colombina as a base. Choose San Marco for convenience, Cannaregio for atmosphere, and Castello for calm.

Start at Piazza San Marco, the city's grand central square, and step into Saint Mark's Basilica for its glittering mosaics. Next door, Doge's Palace shows the seat of Venetian power, connected to the Bridge of Sighs. Cross the Rialto Bridge for the best views of the Grand Canal, then ride a gondola to experience the waterways up close. Climb St Mark's Campanile for a sweeping panorama of the lagoon and rooftops.

The full-day tours from Venice go to the Dolomites, a dramatic mountain range with scenic peaks and alpine views, and the Prosecco Hills, a rolling vineyard region known for its sparkling wine. If you prefer to stay closer, well-known day trips include the islands of Murano, famous for glassmaking, and Burano, known for its colorful houses and lace.

Plan 2 to 3 days for Venice. In two days, you can see Piazza San Marco, Saint Mark's Basilica, Doge's Palace, the Bridge of Sighs, and Ponte di Rialto, plus ride a gondola on the Grand Canal. Add a third day to visit St Mark's Campanile and Scuola Grande di San Rocco at a relaxed pace. If you take a day trip to the Dolomites or Murano and Burano, add one more day.