Post 2 of 4 Trip to Northern Italy, Croatia, and Slovenia
Venice was a dream for a long time - not only because it is sinking, but because my parents went on their honeymoon so it always has had special meaning for me to go with someone I love. I could barely contain my excitement as we approached - while I am always beyond excited and full of energy in a new destination, I just felt this city had a storybook feeling. Yes, it's crowded and touristy but you can steal quiet moments, like going to Piazza San Marco at night for the first time, where we pretty much had it to ourselves or grabbing a few beers from a bar late night to enjoy at "home".
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| Postcard Perfect |
The Essentials
1) Stay out of the crowded areas - we stayed at the Charming House which felt like a real home and has a quiet residential feel off a quiet square right on the canal. While hard to find, that makes it even better and close to the grocery store for breakfast and basics. It was our oasis and amazing overall, you really feel like a local vs a tourist staying here. There is no room service and staff at night which we loved but just a note for those looking for a traditional hotel.
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| View from our room |
2) Restaurants - Ristorante Linea D'Ovenzia was one of our favorites, quiet and right on the water, amazing staff and food/wine. Osteria Antica Dolo was charming in its own way - it's in a busy neighborhood but tiny and food was great.
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| Quaint Trattoria |
3) Oldest paper store in all of Italy - Legatoria. One of my dreams is to open a little paper store and keep reminding people to send letters and cards, not emails and texts!
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| Oldest Paper Store in Italy |
4) Yes do all the touristy stuff - while Venice is stunning and surreal, most people probably won't go back twice so don't miss Bridge of Sighs, Harry's for a bellini, Hotel Danieli for a late night cocktail.
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| Architecture is stunning everywhere |
5) You don't need more than 2-3 days and definitely take water taxis as they are best option for travel and one of the best rides with a view you can get.
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| The Regatta upon arrival |
The Prosecco Trail was an unexpected hidden gem I came across in search of staying in an Agriturismo - and it was harvest season which was stunning to experience so highly recommend September to visit. An easy drive from Milan and gives you access to Croatia and Slovenia. During harvest you may hear canons going off at night to prevent storms from destroying the grapes - the lull of church bells and rolling hills will distract you though so just grab some bikes and tour around. And remember a meal without wine in Italy is breakfast!!
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| Town after a brief storm |
The Essentials:
1) Relais Dolce Vista in Santo Stefano di Valdobbiadene is probably one of the best hotels we have ever stayed at - set on a small vineyard, we arrived as most of the staff was harvesting which was amazing to watch and we noted to come back and volunteer to help in years to come!
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| Dolce Vista - name says it all |
2) There are amazing restaurants here and around the area- hidden for sure but worth the pursuit and the staff will help you with reservations (which are a must) and directions (again, download maps.me). Some of our favorites include Trattoria Alla Cima, Ristorante Da Giggettmiane, Da Lino Pieve di Soligo, and Pizza Belvedere.
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| Harvest Time! |
3) Bring home prosecco and enjoy by the pool or on patio or in your cozy farmhouse room. A great way to end a trip as there is not much else to do but eat or drink and be outside. The area is very local and remote so don't expect a lot of other things other than the local grocery store where I stocked up on some amazing pasta and local products!
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| Can't wait to cook at home! |
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