Venice holidays

Venice might not be best-known for its beaches, but they’re here, and they’re worth visiting. Most people flock to Venice Lido and Lido di Jesolo – both are a short ferry ride away. And whether you want shops, restaurants and sunloungers or a bit of space to yourself, you’re sure to find it.

Venice Lido is a skinny, sandy island sheltering Venice from the Adriatic Sea. This is the city’s most popular sunbathing spot, as it’s so easy to get to – just hop on a ferry across the lagoon. If you want to top up your tan, you’ll be able to hire a sunlounger and a parasol, and restaurants and ice-cream shops are on hand to keep you going when hunger hits.

Alberoni Beach is tucked away at the far end of Venice Lido. Once you arrive at the island’s ferry terminal, you can flag down a cab to take you there – it’ll take about 15 minutes. This spot is ideal if you’re hoping to dodge the crowds – the sand’s backed by dunes, and you’re likely to have a big space all to yourself.

Rialto Market, near the famous Rialto Bridge, is your go-to for a cheap and cheerful lunch. Stallholders here sell everything from fresh fruit to locally made bread, so you’ll be able to get everything you need for a picnic. It’s an opportunity to mingle with the locals, too.

Carnival masks and glass trinkets are the classic Venice souvenirs. And if you want to get your hands on some, you’ll need to look out for the gift shops that are scattered along the city’s side roads. There’s no main shopping street, but that just adds to the charm.

If it’s designer goodies you’re after, head to the streets surrounding St Mark’s Square. Well-known brands like Versace, Dior and Prada have stores here, so you’ll have no trouble getting your hands on some top-of-the-range treats.

The city’s Cannaregio district is the perfect spot for a low-key night out. Start things off with a late dinner at an Italian restaurant, then head to one of the area’s relaxed wine bars for a tipple or two.

Nightlife isn’t the first thing that springs to mind when you think of Venice, but you’ll still find a good crop of bars and clubs here. The Campo Santa Margherita area’s known for its buzzy atmosphere and music that attracts a younger crowd.

If you’re hoping to try a classic Venetian appetiser while you’re in town, order sarde in saor. As the name suggests, the main ingredient is sardines. They’re fried, then mixed with vinegar, pine nuts, onions and raisins to make a sweet and sour dish.

This seafood risotto is unique because of its jet-black colour. It’s all thanks to the addition of squid ink. The rest of the ingredients list includes red wine, tomato and onion, and it’s usually served as a starter.

Cicchetti is Italy’s answer to tapas. It’s essentially bitesized portions of food – usually fried – designed to share between two or more people. Olive ascolane is one of the must-try options – think deep-fried green olives stuffed with meat.

If you’ve got a sweet tooth, head to a bakery and grab yourself some buranelli. These traditional S-shaped biscuits can only be made in Burano – an island in north Venice, but they’re sold all over. We recommend pairing them with a cup of coffee.

Cocktail fans shouldn’t miss the chance to try this refreshing Venetian classic. It consists of a bitter, red Italian liquor like Aperol, prosecco, soda and an orange garnish. Order one in a bar, or wash down your dinner with it – the drink’s sold practically everywhere.