My trip to Venice—it’s unlike any place I’ve ever been! One of the craziest things is that there are no cars on the island. Can you believe it? You have to walk or take a boat everywhere, which feels totally surreal at first but quickly becomes the coolest thing ever. The city is like a maze of adorable alleyways and gorgeous bridges that make you feel like you've stepped back in time. And let me tell you about the vaporetto—it’s this awesome water bus that's the main way to get around, and I used it like five times a day! It’s so easy to use, and if you get a multi-day pass, you can hop on and off all day long without breaking the bank. Private water taxis are crazy expensive, so stick with the vaporetto unless you’re feeling really fancy.

Now, would I recommend Venice for a solo trip? Well, it kind of depends on your vibe. It’s a little tricky to navigate on your own, and after a few days, you might run out of things to do. For me, Venice is perfect for a romantic trip or a fun getaway with friends. Just picture it—falling in love in this magical city or laughing until your stomach hurts with your closest buddies as you explore all the hidden corners and canals. It’s seriously a dream vacation!

So, our adventure to Venice kicked off from Padova, where we were staying. We caught a train from Padova to Venezia Santa Lucia station, just a quick 30-minute ride that only set us back €4.25 each. The journey was smooth and comfy, giving us a chance to unwind and gear up for the enchanting experience awaiting us in Venice.

One of the first sights that caught our attention was the Ponte degli Scalzi, the iconic stone bridge that gracefully arches over the Grand Canal. Its classic, understated beauty perfectly complements the bustling waterways and the surrounding Venetian architecture, adding a touch of elegance to the entire scene. From the bridge, we could see gondolas gliding along the canal, reflecting the warm light from the buildings, and the soft murmur of voices filled the air as people strolled by or stopped to admire the view.

Standing there on Ponte degli Scalzi, gazing across the Grand Canal, was one of those travel moments that feels utterly surreal. The bridge offered the perfect vantage point to soak in Venice’s unique charm—from the historic buildings lining the canal to the lively atmosphere of people and boats passing by. It was the perfect introduction to Venice’s timeless beauty, and it left us eager to explore more of this magical city.

Venice is like a dream come to life, a place straight out of a storybook. At night, Venice transforms into something truly enchanting. The crowds disperse, the temperature drops, and the city takes on a mystical aura, with only the sound of the water softly hitting against the gondolas. Spending a night in Venice is like stepping into a fairy tale, where every corner holds a magical surprise waiting to be discovered. It's a truly unforgettable experience that will leave you in awe of the beauty and charm of this unique city.

There’s something undeniably magical about Venice at night, and a gondola ride under the moonlight is an experience that captures the very essence of this enchanting city. As the sun sets and the last rays of light fade, the canals transform into shimmering ribbons of silver, illuminated by the soft glow of street lamps and the occasional flicker from nearby cafés.

The canals of Venice take on a completely different personality at night. The soft glow of lanterns dances on the water's surface, illuminating the ornate buildings that line the canals. The reflections shimmer like stars fallen from the sky, creating a dreamlike atmosphere that feels almost surreal. It’s as if time stands still, allowing you to truly appreciate the stunning architecture that has remained unchanged for centuries.

If Venice is a living masterpiece, then St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco) is its beating heart. This is the square where you feel the soul of the city—whether it's day or night, there’s an energy here that’s simply captivating. As you step into the vast open piazza, surrounded by the grandeur of historic architecture, it’s impossible not to feel like you’re part of something extraordinary.

In the evening, St. Mark’s Square truly comes to life. The crowds thin out, and the square takes on a calm, golden glow as the sun begins to set. It’s a time when tourists, locals, and musicians converge, and the square feels both peaceful and alive with history. The sight of the Basilica di San Marco, illuminated and shimmering with its intricate mosaics, is breathtaking and almost surreal. The basilica’s Byzantine architecture, with its domes and spires, glows in the fading light, transporting you back in time.

To experience St. Mark’s Square at its best, grab a table at Caffè Florian or Gran Caffè Quadri. Both cafés have been around since the 18th century and have served famous artists, writers, and travelers who came to Venice seeking inspiration. Order an espresso or a bottle of local wine, and soak in the ambiance as a live orchestra fills the square with classical Italian melodies. The sound echoes off the ancient walls, creating an almost cinematic experience. Sitting here, you can easily imagine what Venice was like in the days of Casanova or Vivaldi—a city of mystery, romance, and creativity.

While many visitors are drawn to St. Mark’s Square during the day, coming here at night is a completely different experience. The Campanile di San Marco (St. Mark’s Bell Tower), one of Venice’s most iconic landmarks, looms overhead, casting long shadows across the square. The tower offers a spectacular view of Venice from above if you climb it during the day, but at night, it serves as a striking focal point against the dark sky.

For a final touch of Venetian wonder, take a few moments to wander around the square, especially toward the Doge’s Palace. This Gothic masterpiece was once the residence of Venice’s rulers, and it’s a sight to behold with its marble facade, arches, and open courtyard that invites you to explore. Even if the palace is closed for the night, the grandeur of its exterior—lit by the warm glow of the street lamps—is unforgettable.

St. Mark’s Square at twilight is pure Venetian magic. It’s a place where history, beauty, and modern-day life meet in a perfect blend, and it’s a moment of peace before you dive into the city’s lively canals and bustling streets. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or with a special someone, spending an evening in St. Mark’s Square is a quintessential Venetian experience you’ll carry with you long after you leave.

It was time to explore a darker side of Venice—one filled with legends, mysteries, and perhaps even a ghost or two. I joined a Venetian ghost tour, where a local guide led us through the city’s narrow alleyways, telling tales of haunted palaces and forgotten souls.

The Venice of the night is hauntingly beautiful, and as we walked through shadowy squares and passed under dimly lit archways, the city’s centuries-old history came alive. The guide shared stories of plague victims who still haunt the city’s canals and the Palazzo Dario, known as the "cursed palace," where tragedy seems to follow every owner.

The darkness gave the city an eerie, almost magical atmosphere. Every step we took seemed to unlock another mystery, and by the end of the tour, I was thoroughly entranced by Venice’s ghostly charm. It’s an experience that added a layer of depth to my understanding of the city—Venice is not just a place of beauty and romance, but also of shadows and secrets.

To end the night, I headed to the Skyline Rooftop Bar at the Hilton Molino Stucky, which offers panoramic views of Venice that are nothing short of spectacular. With a cocktail in hand, I gazed out over the city, watching as the lights reflected on the water below, giving Venice an almost surreal glow.

Venice by day is beautiful, but Venice by night is something else entirely. It’s a place where history, romance, and mystery intertwine, creating an atmosphere unlike any other city in the world. Whether you’re gliding through the canals on a gondola, exploring hidden alleyways on a ghost tour, or simply savoring a meal by the water’s edge, Venice after dark will capture your heart.

So if you ever find yourself in Venice, make sure to stay out after the sun sets. That’s when the magic truly begins.