The Ultimate Hiking in Krkonoše with Dog: A Paw-some Trip for 4 days!

Adventure on a paw-some hiking in Krkonoše with dog: scenic trails, mountain huts, and pet-friendly paths await in Czechia’s highest peaks.

Category: Travel Inspiration

  • The Ultimate Hiking in Krkonoše with Dog: A Paw-some Trip for 4 days!

    The Ultimate Hiking in Krkonoše with Dog: A Paw-some Trip for 4 days!

    Ready to explore the wild side of Czechia with your furry friend? This guide to Hiking in Krkonoše with Dog is your ticket to a truly paw-some adventure.

    Join me as I share my personal experience hiking down Sněžka, visiting the Timber Trail, and discovering the incredible Adršpach Rock Formations. You’ll get all the tips and recommendations you need to make the most of your trip through this stunning national park.

    Must have on this trip: Good hiking shoes, hiking clothing (layers), dog leash, muzzle, water bowl for your dog, and raincoat for the dog, and You.

    Overview

    3 Days
    Czechia
    Trutnov
    Trutnov
    How To Use The Map:

    Click the tab in the top left-hand corner of the map to view the layers (pins on maps with places such as swimming spots and beaches, parking, restaurants, towns, ticket offices, etc.)
    You can click the check marks to hide or show layers. If you click the icons on the map, you can get more information about each pinned point.
    If you click the star next to the title of the map, this map will be added to your Google Maps account. To view it on your phone or computer, open Google Maps, click the menu button, go to “Your Places,” click Maps, and you will see this map on your list.

    Adršpach Rock Formation
    The Timber Trail, Krkonoše
    Sněžka
    The Giant Mountains

    Best Time To Go

    Spring (March to June): Spring is a fantastic time for hiking in Krkonoše National Park, the trails are back in their best condition, nature has started to wake up and the temperatures are not that cold anymore, and of course, not too hot for hiking in the mountains with Your furry friend. As it’s spring the tourist crowds are not yet coming and You will have a pleasant adventure with Your dog.

    Autumn (September to November): Autumn is another excellent time for hiking in Krkonoše National Park with a dog. The biggest summer crowds have left the trails, because of the rain, mist, and clouds in the mountains, but these views are still amazing and there are good sunny days in the autumn too. The temperatures have dropped a little and are very comfortable for your furry friend and of course, You.

    Dog Policy in Krkonoše National Park

    Krkonoše National Park is very friendly to Dogs. According to the official website of the Krkonoše National Park, dogs are allowed to enter the park, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. The website also states that dogs are not allowed in the nature zone, which is off the official trails of the park.

    Dogs are also welcome on the mountain lifts, but they must be muzzled and leashed, they have to pay a reduced admission fee to enter. According to the official website of Treetop Walk Krkonoše, because of safety and hygiene reasons, dogs are not allowed to enter the Treetop Walk. In order you don’t have to leave your animal friend at home, however, they provide clean, lockable boxes free of charge at the entrance, where your pet can relax and wait for you.


    Great Places for Hiking in Krkonoše with Dog

    Adršpach Rock Formation

    Adršpach Rock Formation is a truly unique place in Europe. The labyrinth of towering sandstone formations, sculpted by centuries of wind and water erosion, creates an otherworldly atmosphere. The sandstone towers, gorges, and rock walls form a picturesque landscape, perfect for hiking and exploration.

    The trails are amazing but not particularly easy or short. You and your dog should be physically capable of navigating the numerous steep stairs and narrow tunnels through the stones. The main trail is about 3 km in length, but if you decide to walk around the lake, the trail extends to 4-5 km.

    Similar landscapes can also be found in the Saxon Switzerland National Park in Germany, offering more of those striking sandstone pillars and cliffs. Additionally, the Elbe Sandstone Mountains in the Czech Republic, an extension of the Saxon Switzerland area, provide further opportunities for exploration.

    Both you and your dog will cherish the time spent in these beautiful and awe-inspiring places.


    The Timber Trail, Krkonoše

    The Timber Trail is an excellent choice for getting to know the beautiful landscape of Krkonoše National Park. This trail is both beautiful and educational, making it a great place to bring along kids. Along the path, you’ll encounter various wooden structures, each with its own story and message related to nature and the environment.

    The trail is not particularly challenging and is very safe for everyone. If you’re afraid of heights, it might be a bit more challenging, but it’s worth every step. It’s a wonderful way to explore the wilderness and appreciate the harmonious relationship between nature and art.

    Because of safety and hygiene reasons, dogs are not allowed to enter the Treetop Walk. In order you don’t have to leave your animal friend at home, however, they provide clean, lockable boxes free of charge at the entrance, where your pet can relax and wait for you.


    Sněžka

    Sněžka is the highest mountain in the Czech Republic and the most iconic peak in the Krkonoše mountain range. It stands at 1,602 meters above sea level. If you take a cable car to the summit and hike down to the base, it will be a pleasant experience for your dog if it’s not used to walking in the mountains. Of course, you can hike up and then back down to the base or a different place. At the peak of Sněžka, you will find many different trails in all directions.

    There’s a possibility that when you get up there, clouds may cover everything all around, and there may be a storm-strength wind. But don’t worry; it’s a wet and magical experience and worth a shot.

    Sněžka offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes and is a popular destination for hikers, trekkers, and nature enthusiasts. The trails vary, offering different terrains from steep stony stairs to flat gravel and asphalt paths in the woods.

    If you’re afraid of heights, the trails are still doable and not that scary, at least up to Pec Pod Sněžkou, where the cable car is based.


    The Giant Mountains

    In the Giant Mountains, there are many beautiful trails and views to explore with your dog. One of the most convenient trails is located at Špindlerovy Boudy. You can pay for parking at the hotel reception and enjoy your day with your furry friend while exploring some of the trails.

    Start at Špindlerovy Boudy, make your way to Petrovy Boudy, and then up to the Maiden Rocks (Dívčí kameny). Continue to the Moravian Mountain Hut (Moravská Bouda) and then return to Špindlerovy Boudy.

    At Petrovy Boudy, you’ll find a great resting place with a free toilet and hot drinks. Sometimes you can also enjoy pastries.


    Ideas for a Paw-some trip with your furry friend…

  • Spectacular Gozo Gems: 7 Top Things to See and Do on Your Maltese Vacation

    Spectacular Gozo Gems: 7 Top Things to See and Do on Your Maltese Vacation

    Discover the Gozo gems that make Malta’s sister island truly memorable. From exploring ancient citadels to hiking stunning coastal trails, this small island is perfect for a “hikecation.” Rent a car to uncover every hidden beach and viewpoint, and visit in the off-season to escape the crowds.

    Malta is a lovely place to go for a summer beach holiday, however, to escape the crowds it’s a good idea to go in the off-season or shortly before or after the peak season…

    Best Time To Go

    Spring (March to June): Spring is a fantastic time to visit Malta when the weather is mild and pleasant. The countryside is lush and green, making it perfect for outdoor activities and exploring historical sites without the summer crowds.

    Autumn (September to November): Early autumn is another excellent time to visit Malta. The weather is still warm, but the crowds begin to thin out. It’s a good compromise between enjoying the beaches and avoiding the peak season rush.

    Winter (December to February): Winters in Malta are mild, and it’s an excellent time to explore historical sites and enjoy a quieter, more local experience. Keep in mind that some beach activities may not be suitable during this season.

    Summer (July to August): If you enjoy hot and sunny weather, then summer is the peak tourist season in Malta. The beaches are bustling, and there are various events and festivals happening. However, it can get quite crowded, so be prepared for higher prices and more tourists.

    7 Top Things to See and Do in Gozo

    Malta
    Gozo Island

    Ta’ Ċenċ Cliffs

    Malta is known for its high coastal cliffs, one of the most impressive are Ta’ Ċenċ Cliffs. More than 150 m above sea level, these cliffs are the tallest cliffs of Gozo. There are a lot of trails for exploring the surrounding area and finding the best views. It’s a great feeling after a hike just to sit back and overlook the beautiful landscape of the Mediterranean Sea. Trails may be mild and some of them can be challenging here. But all worth the view.

    The cliffs are a historically and biologically rich place, with the ruins of incredible buildings and fossils having been discovered. Thousands of species of birds stop off at the cliffs throughout the migration.


    Explore Kantra Valley

    Though popular for scuba diving during the summer months, this area is equally enjoyable for hiking and exploring during the rest of the year because of its network of winding trails and landscapes.

    In Kantra Valley You’ll find Xlendi Tower and old salt pans. The tower is one of the Lascaris towers and dates to 1650; it is currently undergoing restoration. It is the oldest of the four surviving watchtowers on Gozo. The earlier Garzes and Marsalforn towers were destroyed in the 18th and 19th centuries.

    Trails may be a little extreme in some places so it’s recommended to wear proper shoes and clothes.


    Victoria and Citadella de Victoria

    Rabat, commonly known as Victoria, is the center of Gozo. The Citadel dominates the Island’s skyline, towering dramatically above the surrounding landscape, making it visible from practically anywhere on the island.

    Although the Gozo Citadel has its origins in the late Middle Ages, the hill on which it stands has been inhabited since Neolithic times. The Citadel was a safe haven from Saracen raids and Barbary corsairs for hundreds of years.


    Azure Window Complex

    Off the coast of Malta is the island of Gozo, which is home to a natural arch known as the Azure Window (or the Dwejra Window). Until its collapse in stormy weather on March 8, 2017, the limestone feature in Dwejra Bay, near the Inland Sea and Fungus Rock, was one of the island’s biggest tourist attractions. Many films and television shows from around the world have featured the arch and other local landmarks.

    If you Google – Azure window, you will find some amazing photos of it. But it’s still a really good place to visit and see.

    In the complex, You’ll also find the Inland Sea – Located on the island of Gozo, the Inland Sea (sometimes called “Dwejra”) is a seawater lagoon that connects to the Mediterranean Sea through a thin natural arch.

    Taking a boat tour through the arch into the open sea is a thrilling experience, and though it may seem pricey, it’s worth it because the guides are entertaining and informative. You’ll learn that there’s always something to look at, and they’ll encourage you to use your imagination to really appreciate the experience.


    Wied il-Għasri and Its Valley

    Wied il-Ghasri is a really interesting place to stop by on Your way. The Lower Coralline Limestone and the underlying Globerigerina Limestone form the cliffs of the L-Gasri Valley creating a deep gorge-like valley.

    The Mediterranean Sea is accessible for a refreshing swim at the end of the valley, which features a small, quiet pebbly bay thanks to the valley’s twisting way to the open sea. Steps have been carved onto the cliffside so that you may reach the tiny pebbly beach below, despite appearances to the contrary.

    Keep your camera handy since you’ll want to capture the breathtaking scenery as you make your way down the stairs.


    Watch the sun go down at Ramla Beach before returning to your place. That’s the nicest beach on Gozo, and maybe even all of Malta. Because of its expansive red sands, the locals have named it “Ramla il-amra,” or “the Red Sandy Beach.” In Ramla, you can go swimming, snorkeling, or just bask in the sun.

    Although there are a few eateries and a stall located slightly out from the shore, the area immediately surrounding the beach remains charmingly unspoiled. In this protected area, the valley that drops down to the bay is lush and verdant, and the sand dunes are safe from erosion. When viewed from the surrounding peaks, the valley takes on the appearance of a quilt because of the farmers’ terraced walls.


    Diving in Gozo

    Diving in Malta is a fantastic experience. The crystal-clear waters, diverse marine life, and historical wrecks make it a top destination for underwater enthusiasts. You’ll find a variety of dive sites, from caves and tunnels to shipwrecks, and the warm Mediterranean climate makes it possible to dive year-round. The Blue Hole and the Inland Sea in Gozo are particularly popular spots. Malta’s underwater world is captivating, and I’m sure you’d enjoy exploring it.

    In the map at the beginning, I have put up the best agencies for Your diving adventure in Gozo.

    Ideas for Your Trip to Malta

  • Magical Lapland Ski Trip: Finland’s Winter Wonderland of Slopes & Northern Lights

    Magical Lapland Ski Trip: Finland’s Winter Wonderland of Slopes & Northern Lights

    Forget the Alps. For a truly unforgettable winter adventure, a Lapland ski trip to Levi Ski Resort is worth every cent. Ski inside the Arctic Circle and enjoy husky safaris, snowmobiling, and hunting for the northern lights. It’s more than skiing; it’s a magical experience. Lapland ski trip? Really?

    You’ll need to start this adventure in Kittilä or Rovaniemi and take the shuttle bus from the airport to Sirkka. We stayed at Levi Suites Levin Klubi, and the experience was brilliant. The location was very good because it was away from the Levi hotspot (ZERO POINT), but You can get around with a bus or hop on Your skis and get up to the slopes exactly from there.

    Contents

    Good to Know
    Best Time to Go
    Best Things to Do
    Itinerary Suggestion For 7 Days
    Useful Links

    Good to know

    Don’t forget to buy a ski bus ticket so You can get around the place. You can buy it at any Levi ski pass office.

    • 3,00 euros/day Area ticket, which requires a valid ski lift pass and is sold ONLY at ski pass offices.
    • 4,00 euros/day. Advance tickets that is sold at ski pass offices, webstore, Levi Info, and hotels in Levi.
    • 4,00 euros One-time ticket that is sold only in Ski Buses.
    • 43,50 euros/season Ski Bus Pass that is sold at ski pass offices and in Ski Buses. No limitations for the use during the winter season.
    • Children under 6 years travel for free with adults.

    Best Time To Go On a Lapland Ski Trip

    The best time to go on a winter retreat in Levi is from October to May, due to low winter temperatures, all the winter activities will be available then.

    If you’re planning on going on a Northern Lights hunt, then the best time to go is from October to November and from February to March. At this time, temperatures are not extreme, there is enough darkness, and the sky at night is clearer than in December and January.

    The cheapest time to go and enjoy winter in Levi is autumn (October and November), the snow is already on the mountain, and some skiing tracks are already open. After that, the winter peak season starts and continues till the spring, and the prices are higher. Of course, January and February are the coldest times of the year in the Arctic Circle.

    Winter clothes are not a problem if You’re going to Levi, You can always rent winter clothes so You’ll be warm anytime if You’re willing to pay for that.

    Here You’ll find all the equipment rentals around Levi.

    Best Things To Do In Levi

    Cross-country Skiing
    Downhill Skiing and Snowboarding
    E-Fatbiking
    Snowshoeing

    Best things to do in Levi

    Cross-Country Skiing

    In Levi and around You’ll find plenty of cross-country skiing tracks of different levels and lengths for different skiers and even children. Equipment rentals are all around Sirkka no matter where You stay. You can easily get on the track from anywhere around Levi.

    The prices for equipment rentals are similar all around, and Cross-Country skiing is free, excluding equipment rental. Cross-country ski set (skis, poles, and boots) price may vary from 30-40 EUR for 24 hours for adults, and for children, the price is 20 – 30 EUR for 24 hours, of course, it gets cheaper if You rent for more than one day.

    Explore Cross-Country Skiing tracks…


    Downhill Skiing and Snowboarding

    Levi Mountain is full of downhill skiing and snowboarding slopes of different difficulty levels. Tracks are spread all around the mountain.

    The best area for nonprofessionals is the South slopes – full of different slopes of different lengths and open all year round because of the artificial lighting. South slopes feature blue slopes of different lengths. South Park is for more advanced snowboarders and skiers with a lot of different jumps. South Slopes also gives You a little adventure through the trees if You want to. In the South Slopes, You can have a lot of fun. Other areas are for more advanced skiers and snowboarders.

    The prices for equipment rentals are similar all around. Prices are the same as for a Cross-country ski set, but You’ll need to buy a ski pass to enjoy the adventure of downhill slopes.

    Explore Ski Slopes and lifts…


    E-Biking with a fat bike

    E-biking in winter through the snowy forest is a thing I didn’t think I’d do, but all in all, it was a great experience, which You couldn’t think of while on a skiing getaway, but it’s a must-do, especially in this beautiful environment.

    Rent an E-fat bike and head to the trails even in winter. A great tip is to understand how an e-bike works before heading on the snowy and hilly trails. Once You understand the whole thing, it’s such an adventure. The trails are in very good condition for biking and hiking, and are driven through with a snowmobile. Try not to fall into the snowdrifts on the sides of the trails; getting out of them may be both fun and difficult.

    E-Fatbike rental for 3 hours is around 50 EUR + 20 if You want a helmet. E-Fatbike rental for a full day, 10:00-17:00, is around 70 EUR + 20 for a helmet.

    Explore winterwalking and Fatbike routes…


    Snowshoeing

    Snowshoeing is an experience You have to try when enjoying winter in Finland. It can be very fun, but at the same time, You have to be in good shape because trails are not easy to complete because of the elevation during Your hike and snow, but the views are stunning, and it’s easier to walk in snowshoes on the snow. In your own boots, it can be very hard because of the thickness of the snow and the slipperiness throughout the trails.

    Of course, there are easy trails too, but the difficult ones are more beautiful.

    Snowshoe rental for 3 hours is around 14 EUR + 4 for the poles. Snowshoe rental for a full day is around 18 EUR + 6 for the poles. Take the poles too!!!

    Explore winterwalking and Fatbike routes…


    Itinerary Suggestion For 7 Days

    Day 1: Arrive
    Day 2: Cross-country skiing
    Day 3: Downhill skiing/snowboarding
    Day 5: E-Fatbiking
    Day 6: Snowshoeing
    Day 7: Rest, relax, travel home

    Day 1

    Summary: On the first day, arrive at Sirkka, check in at Your hotel, go grocery shopping, explore the surroundings, and settle down.


    Day 2

    Cross-Country skiing

    For the next day, it’s a great time to do the hardest part of the adventure in Levi. You can rent Your cross-country skiing set and explore the cross-country skiing tracks around Levi Mountain and the beautiful white views all around while sliding on the tracks in excellent condition.

    If You’re an early bird, then the tracks may not be ready for the day. If it was snowing the previous day and night, then it would also be a great adventure to find the right tracks. Cross-country skiing tracks in Levi are hilly, so choose the right track for Your abilities.


    Days 3 and 4

    Downhill skiing/snowboarding

    The next 2 days are for downhill slopes. Skiing and snowboarding slopes are really good in Levi; most of the slopes are equipped with artificial lights because of the darkness in winter. It may be just 2 hours or less with the daylight, but any time on the slopes is an adventure in itself.

    Imagine getting up the mountain in the darkness, but up at the top, You’ll see the sunrise or sunset; these views over the snowy landscape are mesmerising. From the top station, You can get literally to any slope on the mountain. Also, next to the slopes are little forested areas where You can ski or snowboard through, and that’s another amazing adventure if You’re brave enough.

    From any side down the mountain, You can catch a ski bus and get to another place or Your hotel.

    If You have more than a week there, I recommend downhill slopes for 3 to 4 days, so You can explore more slopes.


    Day 5

    E-Fatbiking

    On day 5, rent an E-fatbike and explore the trails around Levi Mountain. These trails are for bikes, hiking, and snowshoeing. You will find many adventure seekers on the trails.

    These trails are driven over with a snowmobile almost every day and marked with ribbons. But trails are not really wide, so You can easily fall into snowdrifts on the sides, and it’s not very easy to get out of them, but it’s fun if You have proper clothing.

    On Your way, You may find some lean-to shelters too. Feel free to use them and light a fire for a little while.

    Before starting your adventure, understand how e-bikes work, so You can easily bike through the hilly trails. While on the trail, You’ll see some amazing views and maybe some animals too, so look around.


    Day 6

    Snowshoeing

    On day 6, rent snowshoes and explore some other trails around Levi. I recommend snowshoeing up some of the mountains nearby. THE TRAIL will be marked for snowshoes.

    This trail is fun for snowshoeing because of the views around You. It’s steep and slippery at some points, so You will not be able to complete it without snowshoes. Take a good flashlight with You, because your phone will die from the cold if You use it, and rent snowshoes together with poles, which will be very useful, especially to get down.

    On Your way and nearby, You may find some lean-to shelters too. Feel free to use them and light a fire for a little while.


    Day 7

    Summary: This day is for relaxing, resting, looking back at Your adventures here, and getting back home.


    Useful Links

    All the information about trails, cross-country skiing tracks and many more can be found at InfoGIS LEVI

    All the information about Downhill skiing slopes, ski passes, and everything else about Levi can be found at Levi Ski Resort

    For a pleasant experience and to understand everything about Levi, You can download the Levi Resort APP (Android).


  • Best 12 Non-Touristy Things to Do in Venice

    Best 12 Non-Touristy Things to Do in Venice

    Worried your trip will be more about navigating crowds than discovering the real Venice? This guide to the non-touristy things to do in Venice is your key to unlocking the city’s authentic side. We’ll balance popular sights like St. Mark’s Square with hidden gems and non-touristy activities, allowing you to experience the city’s true, charming character.

    Overview

    Things To Do in Venice

    How To Use The Map:

    Click the tab in the top left-hand corner of the map to view the layers (pins on maps with places such as swimming spots and beaches, parking, restaurants, towns, ticket offices, etc.)
    You can click the check marks to hide or show layers. If you click the icons on the map, you can get more information about each pinned point.
    If you click the star next to the title of the map, this map will be added to your Google Maps account. To view it on your phone or computer, open Google Maps, click the menu button, go to “Your Places,” click Maps, and you will see this map on your list.

    Cannaregio District
    Libreria Acqua Alta
    Rialto Bridge before 8 am
    Mercato di Rialto
    Agenzia delle entrate Ufficio Territoriale Venezia
    Ca Macana Original shop and Workshop
    Squero di San Trovaso and Osteria al Squero
    Gondola Ferry Service
    Scala Contarini del Bovolo
    Parco delle Rimembranze and Viale IV Novembre
    Arsenale di Venezia
    Get lost in Burano

    Cannaregio District

    Cannaregio is one of the six districts of Venice, Italy. Located in the northwestern part of the city, it is the largest district and home to many historic sites, beautiful canals, and charming neighborhoods.

    Once You arrive in Venice make sure to stroll through the beautiful Cannaregio District and some of its attractions, because it’s away from the crowds mostly locals live and hang out there. This area will give You a real Venetian vibe, just wander around for a great experience.

    What to visit in Cannaregio?

    – Campo Santa Fosca
    – Campo della Madonna dell’Orto
    – Casa del Tintoretto
    – Tomba di Tintoretto
    – Ghetto Ebraico


    Libreria Acqua Alta

    Libreria Acqua Alta is the next thing to do in Venice. It’s a charming bookstore located in Venice, Italy. In fact, its name translates to “High Water Bookstore,” which refers to the frequent flooding that Venice experiences.

    The bookstore is known for its unique displays of books, which are stacked in gondolas, bathtubs, and even a full-sized gondola inside the shop, and of course, the cat that lives there. Unfortunately, the previous cat died recently and it was all around the local news and newspapers as a local said. Fortunately, they have a new cat there now.

    The owner of the bookstore, Luigi Frizzo, has also created a staircase made of old encyclopedias that leads to a beautiful view of the canal outside.

    Warning: Pickpockets may be there too, so be aware of Your belongings, because the place is narrow and full of books.


    Rialto Bridge

    Rialto Bridge before 8 a.m. is a next-level experience of popular tourist destinations in Venice. You’ll be surprised how empty it is, almost all to Yourself. You will be able to take amazing pictures with no people next to You and in the background.

    Moreover, the bridge has a rich history and cultural significance, having served as a vital link between the two sides of the Grand Canal for centuries. In addition, the bridge has been the subject of numerous paintings, poems, and other works of art, cementing its place as an iconic symbol of Venice.


    Mercato di Rialto

    Mercato di Rialto is a lively and colorful market located near the Rialto Bridge in Venice, Italy. It is one of the oldest markets in the city and has been in operation for more than 700 years. The market is divided into two sections: the Erberia, which sells fruits and vegetables, and the Pescheria, which sells fish and seafood. The market offers a wide variety of fresh and locally sourced produce, including fresh fish, seafood, vegetables, fruits, spices, and herbs.

    Moreover, the market sits in a beautiful architectural piece. Many restaurants in Venice source their ingredients from the Rialto Market, making it a great place to sample the local cuisine.

    Just next to the market sits Gondola Ferry Service – Gondola Traghetto di Santa Sofia (Sestiere di San Polo) it takes You over the grand canal to Cannaregio District (Sestiere di Cannaregio)
    Hours: Weekdays: 7.30 – 20.00, Holidays: 8.45 – 19.00,
    Closed: on Christmas Day and January 1st
    Price: €0.70(locals) – €2(tourists)


    If You walk by the Agenzia delle entrate Ufficio Territoriale Venezia, make sure to enter it’s just a free beautiful architectural experience and worth walking in the courtyard, there are no tourists at all.


    Ca Macana Original shop and Workshop

    In Venice, You’ll find many mask shops along the way, but don’t walk in first You see because these shops are traps for tourists, but as a traveler, You should know that many of these shops import masks made in China, but there are only a few with original Venice masks…

    Ca Macana Original is a renowned Venetian mask-making workshop located in Venice, Italy. The workshop has been creating traditional Venetian masks for more than 30 years and is famous for its high-quality and authentic designs. The masks are made using traditional techniques and materials, such as paper mache, plaster, and leather, and are decorated with intricate details and vibrant colors.

    The workshop has been featured in several films, including “Eyes Wide Shut,” and masks from there have been in movies such as Fifty Shades Darker and many others, which You can find in the shop upon entering, they have an album of movies where their masks have been used, and everyone can look through the album. 


    Squero di San Trovaso and Osteria al Squero

    Gondolas are an integral part of Venice, so it’s a must to get to know more about Gondolas and experience them as the real Venetians do. Squero di San Trovaso is a historic boatyard located in Venice, Italy. It is one of the oldest and most famous boatyards in Venice and has been in operation for over 400 years. 

    Squero di San Trovaso specializes in the construction and repair of traditional Venetian boats, such as gondolas, sandolos, and mascarete. The skilled artisans at the boatyard use traditional techniques and materials to create these beautiful and functional vessels. Visitors can watch the craftsmen at work, and even take a gondola ride from the boatyard to experience the beauty of Venice from the water. 

    The Best Spritz in Venice You’ll find it there too, just next to the viewpoint of Squero di San Trovaso – Osteria Al Squero. Take the Spritz and watch the magic happen.

    After The Spritz, walk along the Venetian Lagoon where all the Ferrys and Ships go by – Walk on Fondamenta Zattere Ai Gesuati through Fondamenta Zattere Allo Spirito Santo and Fondamenta Zattere Ai Saloni to the very end of the Fondamenta Salute (Trabaccolo “Il Nuovo Trionfo”), then continue to Gondola-Traghetto – Dogana and take a 2 euro GONDOLA ride over Grand Canal to get back to the San Marco district.


    Gondola Ferry Service

    Gondola-Traghetto-Dogana is another ferry service over The Grand Canal, it sits next to the Historical Archive of the Patriarchate of Venice. This Gondola ferry service takes You from the Dorsoduro district to the San Marco District of Venice or from the Piazza San Marco area to the extreme tip of the Dorsoduro district.

    This is a must-do experience to enjoy Venice like the locals and a lot of tourists really don’t know this You will not need to wait in long lines for the service, but the times may vary based on the season You’re there. The ferry service takes approximately 5-10 minutes to get You over the Grand Canal, one or the other way.

    Hours: Weekdays: 9.00-14.00, Holidays: 9.00-14.00
    Closed: Christmas Day and January 1st
    Price: €0.70(locals) – €2(tourists)


    Scala Contarini del Bovolo

    Scala Contarini del Bovolo is a unique and iconic spiral staircase. Bovolo Staircase is a remarkable architectural masterpiece that showcases the ingenuity and creativity of the Renaissance era. And for a surprise, it’s not as crowded as it may seem, because many of the tourists don’t know about this jewel, but the entrance fee is – 8€

    The staircase’s unique spiral design and external arches make it one of the most impressive structures in Venice. A perfect spot to capture stunning photographs and take in the beauty of the city. It’s a must-do experience for anyone visiting Venice, as it offers an unforgettable view that will stay with you for a lifetime.

    Winter opening hours until February 26th: Every day – 09:30 to 17:30, Last access at 17:00
    Summer opening hours from February 27th: Every day – 10:00 to 18:00, Last access at 17:30
    Closed: December 25th, 26th and January 1st
    Price: Full 8€, reduced €6, children up to 12 years for free. More information about prices…


    Parco delle Rimembranze and Viale IV Novembre

    Parco delle Rimembranze – the park is a peaceful oasis in the heart of Venice and is a great place to relax and enjoy nature. It sits next to Venice Biennale Gardens which is home to the Venice Biennale, one of the oldest and most prestigious contemporary art exhibitions in the world. Biennale Gardens features beautifully landscaped gardens, sculptures, and pavilions designed by some of the world’s most renowned architects.

    Viale IV Novembre is a place where You can walk back to Venice center, but it’s nothing like the center. It stretches along the peaceful and quiet district of residential homes where, of course, Venice residents live, far away from busy tourist crowds in Venice.


    Arsenale di Venezia

    Venetian Arsenal is a historic complex of shipyards and armories located in the heart of Venice. Founded in the early 12th century, it was one of the largest and most technologically advanced shipbuilding centers in the world during the Renaissance period. The shipyards built the iconic galleys that the Venetian navy used to patrol the Mediterranean and defend the city from invaders.

    Today, the Venetian Arsenal is a fascinating destination for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts. The complex includes a series of massive brick buildings, some of which date back to the 13th century, and a number of historic cannons and other weapons on display.

    While the Arsenal is no longer an active shipyard, it remains an important cultural landmark and a testament to Venice’s rich maritime history. Visitors can explore the complex and learn about the fascinating history of shipbuilding in Venice, as well as enjoy stunning views of the surrounding city and lagoon.


    Burano may seem a very touristy place, and in one way it really is, but on the other hand, its main streets may be full of tourists, because of all the guided trips that stop there for 1 hour. It is not enough for such a different, colorful, and beautiful island as Burano. Just get on Venice’s ACTV WATER TRANSPORT, go to Burano, and get lost there for one day.

    Legend has it that the island’s fishermen painted their homes in bright colors on Burano to easily identify them when returning from sea. Today, the tradition continues, and the colors have become a symbol of Burano’s unique character and charm. Besides its colorful architecture, Burano is also famous for its lace-making tradition that dates back to the 16th century. Visitors can explore the island’s small shops and boutiques, where local artisans create intricate lace products using traditional techniques.

    With its charming architecture, picturesque canals, and lively local culture, Burano Island is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Venice. Whether you are looking to soak up the sun, explore local traditions, or simply enjoy the beauty of the Venetian Lagoon, Burano is sure to captivate your heart and leave you with unforgettable memories.

    ACTV TICKETS

    • Buy Your ticket online for Your Venezia Unica City pass
    • At Venezia Unica’s point of sale throughout the historic center of Venice and on the mainland
    • Automatic ticketing machines at the main AVM/Actv public transport arrival terminals and waterbus stops
    • AVM Venezia Official App (ANDROID), AVM Venezia Official App (iOS)
    • Onboard waterborne services

    Ideas for your trip to Italy…