Destination: Venice

Venice is a magical city with a truly romantic feel. Although it has long been the destination of art lovers, romantic honeymooners and Italian aficionado’s, this exotic canal-riddles paradise, lying snug on the north-eastern shores of Italy, is a wonderfully exciting city to visit on a family holiday.

The old part of the city is the most famous by far, with its famous attractions like the Rialto Bridge and St Marks Square to delight visitors young and old. But Venice isn’t limited to the cobbled streets and quaint buildings that make up its main centre, and families with even the youngest children will find plenty to do in and around this ancient fishing port.

The area known as the Lido is a part of Venice which lies to the east of the main city. It is completely separate from the main island, but is formed from a large sandbank that creates the lagoon in which Venice sits. This unique landmass is ideal for families; not only is it home to the world famous Venice Film Festival every autumn, but it is also well known for its fabulous beaches which makes it a perfect base for anyone travelling to Italy with kids.

Many of the hotels in Venice are old fashioned and timely, but the modern hotels very often have children’s clubs and child monitoring schemes on offer, which is perfect for when adults want to go exploring this striking city on their own.

Venice enjoys a relatively warm climate, despite being in a costal location. The best time to visit is in May and June, because you’ll miss the crush of the summer tourist crowd, and also avoid the distinct odour that can emanate from the canals as the water levels lower during the warmer months.

Things to do with kids in Venice

There’s nothing that screams Venice more than a ride in a Gondola, and if you head down to the Grand Canal, you’ll find plenty of them waiting to take you on a tour through the secret canals of this mysterious city. And a gondola tour isn’t just for adults either, although your kids may not welcome the romantic singing some of the gondoliers are famous for! Children of all ages are welcome, and a short ride of around half an hour is perfect for adults to enjoy themselves before the children get too bored. More details...

Although younger children are welcome on most walking tours of Venice, the late night ghost tour is perhaps best kept for slightly older children. This tour will take you and your family out for two hours around this unique city, visiting such historic sites as the street of the Assassins, as well as the many secret passageways and prison cells around the island. With six stories of ghostly legends to learn about, and tales of unexplained sea creatures to hear, you’ll be regaled with the fascinating history of this water-based island. More details...

Although Venice is all about the canals, it is located so close to the fabulous Dolomite mountain range that families have been enjoying full or half day visits to this stunning natural location for years. Tours leave from the main bus terminal in the west of Venice, the only section of the island that allows vehicles, and includes lunch at an authentic Italian restaurant. Children of all ages are welcome. More details...

For older children especially, Venice is littered with museums and art galleries, and there are plenty to choose from. Try the Campanile bell tower in St Marks Square, or the Doges Palace nearby for a flavour of the real Italy. Guided tours to all of these popular tourists spots, as well as plenty more, are available for the whole family. from isango and dosomethingdifferent.com.

Recommended family friendly hotels in Venice

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Be transported back to the era of Venetian opulence at the Hotel Palazzo Abadessa, one of Venices hidden secrets. This charming 4 star hotel is located in the heart of Venice just steps away from the Ca d’Oro Museum and the Grand Canal. The rooms are elegant and spacious, the breakfast buffet generous and varied. If you are not fortunate enough to get a reservation at the Palazzo, then make it a place to visit during your stay in Venice. More details...

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Located in Venice's historic centre is the Ca' Bauta, set in a 15th-century building. It is a little tricky to find, but once you enter the walled garden you will be delighted with this little gem of a guest house. The rooms are spacious and can sleep up to 4 people. It would be hard to beat for quality and value in this location. More details...