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Modena, nestled in the heart of the Emilia-Romagna region in northern Italy, is a city steeped in history, culture, and, without question, culinary excellence. Its well-preserved medieval and Renaissance architecture, including the Modena Cathedral and the iconic Ghirlandina Tower, is a testament to its rich heritage.

It’s the birthplace of balsamic vinegar and home to exquisite traditional Italian food, Modena is a paradise for food enthusiasts. It boasts a vibrant cultural scene with museums, galleries, and annual festivals celebrating music and local traditions. The city’s ties to the automotive industry, with Ferrari and Maserati headquartered here, add to its allure.

Modena is a thriving and dynamic city that invites visitors to savour its history, culinary delights, and contemporary charm. It’s a reason why we needed to visit and why we loved it so much.

Our Experience in Modena

Our nephew Avery surprised us in the first few days of our trip when he barely pulled out his camera and said that he really had no desire to. “It’s about the experience” was a statement I had not expected to hear.

At 18 years young, and on only his first visit overseas, he declined a quick visit to Pisa to take the legendary selfie, and was less in awe of the big tourist sights than I expected him to be. And in a last unexpected twist when discussing his favourite parts of the trip, he declared the tiny city of Modena as a very close second to Florence, beating out Venice, Rome, and Cinque Terre

If I could have anticipated his desires more closely, I might have planned the trip a little differently and a little more into the unknown. But our original plan to hit up the Emilia Romagna region was for our own selfish purposes: we wanted to return for the amazing food we had discovered on our last visit, and Pete wanted to get behind the wheel of a Ferrari.

We kinda felt like we were dragging Avery away from the tourist route all first-time travellers should see and just hoped he wouldn’t mind. He didn’t, and instead he raved, and not just for the thrill ride in a Ferrari. The exquisite dishes we ate won him over as the best food from Italy we had.

With 25 year aged balsamic vinegar drizzled over parmesan, prosciutto that melted in our mouths, and the most luxurious pasta we’ve ever eaten, Ave actually slowed down his frantic eating pace to savour each bite. For an 18 year-old male with an insatiable appetite, this is the biggest compliment he could give.

Tips for Visiting Modena, Italy

How To Get There

To get to Modena, Italy, you can fly into nearby airports like Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport or Milan Malpensa Airport and then head to the train station. From Bologna, it’s only short train ride to Modena. If coming from Milan, you can catch a high-speed train to Modena.

Renting a car is also an option for a road trip, which is certainly the more scenic and slow-paced way to do it. Additionally, long-distance buses serve Modena from various Italian cities.

When To Visit

The ideal time to visit Modena, Italy, varies depending on your personal preferences. Spring, from April to June, presents a delightful option with mild weather, blooming landscapes, and a vibrant atmosphere which is a great option for first time travellers or for those who want a smaller crowd.

Summer, from June to August, can be warm but be warned, it is over-crowded with tourists and events.

Early autumn, spanning September to November, offers pleasant weather and a more peaceful experience with harvest festivals and cultural events. This is usually the best option.

Winter, from December to February, is the low tourist season, making it perfect for those seeking a quieter visit and lower prices, although it can be chillier.

The Best Things To Do in Modena

We had a tough time narrowing down our list of things to do in Modena. From indulging in cheese and gelato, racing performance sports cars, taking in the sights, or immersing in the history and culture of the town, there was a lot to do.

Indulge in Gelato

Satisfy your sweet tooth with authentic Italian gelato from one of the city’s Gelaterias. GIOELIA Cremeria gelato shop was a place that we frequented twice daily (it was seriously the best we had in all of Italy–and we tested a LOT).

Overall, though, we revered the calm. We did not miss shuffling among hundreds and hearing English more often than not. Here, we felt like we were cherishing a real slice of Italy. Easily it’s one of the best things to do in Modena.

Explore Piazza Grande

Modena’s Piazza Grande, also known as Piazza Roma, is the city’s central square, steeped in history and surrounded by stunning architecture. Dominated by the Modena Cathedral and the iconic Ghirlandina Tower, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, it’s a hub for cultural events and dining.

This lively square offers a glimpse into Modena’s rich heritage and is one of the main things to do in Modena while exploring the city’s historic center. And it only gets more magical when dusk sets in, and the golden hue from the lights reflects off the Piazza’s cobblestone streets.

Climb to the Top of Ghirlandina Tower

Located in Piazza Grande, the Ghirlandina Tower (Duomo di Modena) is a UNESCO World Heritage site and pretty hard to miss, as it sits above everything else in the city center.

We had the chance to climb the bell tower to reach the top, and were rewarded with panoramic views of Modena and the surrounding countryside. Be prepared to go up though, the ascent consists of a series of narrow staircases and can be a bit of a tight squeeze. It’s one of the “top” things to do in Modena. Literally. See what we did there?

Visit Modena Cathedral

The stunning Modena Cathedral (Duomo di Modena) is another UNESCO World Heritage site known for its Romanesque architecture and intricate carvings. It is also located in Piazza Grande in the city centre.

Inside the cathedral, you’ll find a treasure trove of artistic and historical riches. Notable highlights include beautiful frescoes, a stunning mosaic in the apse, and an intricately carved pulpit. Modena Cathedral is not only a testament to the artistic achievements of its time but also a living symbol of Modena’s historical and cultural heritage.

Savour Balsamic Vinegar

Modena is renowned as the “birthplace of traditional balsamic vinegar”, known as “Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale di Modena.” Tasting it in its place of origin ensures an authentic and unparalleled experience. Who knew how intricate, delicate and DELICIOUS a 25 year-old balsamic could taste? We were lucky and very appreciative to try it.

Modena’s balsamic vinegar is deeply ingrained in the local culinary culture (to say the least). By participating in a lunch and balsamic vinegar tasting tour, you gain insight into this rich heritage and its significance in Italian cuisine. You get to visit a balsamic vinegar factory and of course, have lunch!

And what’s even better than trying the best balsamic vinegar? Trying the best balsamic vinegar with the best parmesan cheese. Trust us, it doesn’t get much better than this.

The Enzo Ferrari Museum

Seeing these cars in person has always been a childhood dream. I grew up always wanting a Testarossa. So visiting this cutting-edge museum and uncovering the rich history of one of the globe’s most esteemed brands was a must. I was instantly captivated by the futuristic facade of the building, resembling an oversized yellow hood.

Upon entering, I stepped into the expansive hall, which hosts a diverse array of exhibitions, offering the chance to delve into the fascinating history of Ferrari and its visionary founder, Enzo. The Enzo Ferrari Museum is one of the most popular things to do in Modena, and definitely worth visiting for those interested in a stunning collection of historic vehicles.

Be sure to book your ticket for the Ferrari Museum in advance.

Test Drive a Ferrari

Seeing the Ferrari museum was one thing. But getting to sit behind the wheel and open it up on the motorway. Hell yes. Test driving a Ferrari in something anyone can do in Modena. To be fair, Ferrari is actually what predominantly drew us there in the first place, and the experience needed to be shared:

This is the perfect activity for sports car fans and regular day-trippers alike.

Want to test drive a Ferrari? You can do it, but be warned, it isn’t cheap. Although we can 100% say that the experience is certainly worth it.

Stroll through Parco Novi Sad

Situated in the city center, this charming urban park known for its tranquil ambiance, lush greenery, and family-friendly amenities, including a playground. This well-maintained oasis provides a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, offering opportunities for leisurely strolls, picnics, and cultural events.

Visitors can also enjoy panoramic views of Modena’s skyline and easy access to nearby historical attractions, making it a beloved spot for relaxation and exploration.

Visit Modena’s Markets

Modena’s markets are a bustling and vibrant part of the city’s cultural and culinary scene, with many located around or nearby Piazza Grande. From the Mercato Albinelli, a historic covered market where you can find an abundance of fresh produce, meats, parmesan cheese, and local delicacies, to the Mercato Storico, known for its array of artisanal products and gourmet treats, these markets provide a sensory journey through the flavours and traditions of the Emilia-Romagna region.

Exploring Modena’s markets is not just a shopping experience; it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the daily life and gastronomic richness of this charming Italian city.

Take a Food Tour

You can’t visit Modena and not take a food tour while you’re there. Nestled in the center of Emilia Romagna’s ‘Food Valley,’ Modena serves as the epicentre for the creation of some of Italy’s most renowned gourmet delicacies.

This is one of the most popular Modena food tours. You will get picked up and dropped off at your hotel, and along the way you’ll get to experience:

• 5 gourmet pit-stops including:
• Breakfast with special bread and cappuccino
• Tigelle and Lambrusco wine

It’s the perfect way to experience a taste of the region’s culinary highlights on an exclusive food tour, allowing you to savour its most iconic offerings all within just a few hours.

The Kindness of The Modenese People

There are plenty of things to do in Modena that make it a wonderful place to visit, but it’s truly the people that make it so special.

The final event that exalted Modena occurred after our trip up the Ghirlandina tower. Or should I say, after that trip in which I somehow dropped my wallet without noticing, when a harmonious string of events saw the police track me down at our hotel and drop if off before we left the next morning.

Would that have happened in Rome? Or Florence? Probably not, and convinces me yet again that it is the off-beat tourist destinations that provide the most endearing experiences. And I’m glad that Ave didn’t have to just tolerate this side-trip, but instead enjoyed it as much as we did.

Where We Stayed

There are plenty of options for hotels in Modena.

Hotel Libertà

The lovely Hotel Libertà was right in the center of the action and very comfortable for our two-day stay. It’s right in the heart of Modena, close to everything (including the train station) and, more importantly, gelato shops.

Tours We Recommend

There are plenty of things to do in Modena including learning about the secrets of parmesan and balsamic vinegar, a trip to the Lamborghini or Ferrari Museum with a food tour, or learning to make the freshest and most delicious pasta and tiramisu you will ever eat.

Final Thoughts

We don’t often get to play tour guide to family and friends, but when we do, I have been pleasantly surprised to find their experiences most enriched by those that I cherish as well.

Like my Mom choosing Burhaniye over Istanbul, and now Avery lauding Modena over most of Italy. Their reactions have mirrored mine, and I don’t know if it is a familial traveller gene within, or if this is indicative of humankind as a whole.

I don’t want to start the beaten debate of traveller-versus-tourist, but I think that deep down everyone would enjoy a trip off the well-treaded path, they just need to give themselves the chance to do so. And with Italy being one of the most frequented countries in the world – Modena is the perfect place to start.

If cities were novels, Gdańsk’s Old Town would be a page-turner you can’t put down.

Wedged on Poland’s northern coast, this once-thriving port has seen everything from medieval merchants to shipyard strikes, and somehow it’s still managed to look like it belongs on a storybook cover. Think colourful merchant houses, cobblestone streets, and spires that seem to poke holes in the Baltic sky.

So, if you’re plotting a trip to Poland and wondering whether to make time for Gdańsk — spoiler alert: you absolutely should.

Wandering the Old Town (a.k.a. Things You Can’t Miss)

• Dlugi Targ (Long Market): This is Old Town’s catwalk, lined with pastel-hued facades and capped by the impressive Neptune Fountain. Perfect for people-watching and pretending you’re in a Renaissance painting.
• St. Mary’s Basilica: It’s one of the largest brick churches in the world. Climb its 400+ steps for views that will either take your breath away or make you regret skipping cardio.
• The Crane (Żuraw): This hulking medieval port crane is part museum, part reminder that the city’s economy once ran on muscle and pulleys.
• Motława River Promenade: Grab a gelato, stroll along the water, and watch the mix of old galleons and modern yachts bob side by side.
• European Solidarity Centre: A sleek, modern museum just outside the Old Town that dives into the rise of the Solidarity movement and how it shaped Europe. Heavy history, brilliantly told.

Where to Stay in Gdańsk’s Old Town

One of the best things about Gdańsk is that you can stay smack in the middle of Old Town without breaking the bank. Hotels and guesthouses are everywhere, and most keep the charm factor high.

Budget-Friendly

• La Guitarra Hostel: Quirky, social, and right by the river. Perfect if you’d rather spend your money on pierogi than pillows.
• Stay Inn Hotel: Affordable but stylish, with comfy rooms and a location across from St. Mary’s Basilica.

Mid-Range Sweet Spot

• PURO Gdańsk Stare Miasto: Modern, hip, and walking distance from everything. Think Netflix in your room, good coffee downstairs, and design that feels more boutique than the price tag suggests.
• Hotel Artus: Steps from Long Market, it has cozy rooms with a splash of character and great value for the location.

Splurge-Worthy

• Radisson Blu Hotel, Gdańsk: Old Town location with big, plush rooms and just the right amount of polish.
• Hotel Podewils: A boutique stay overlooking the Motława River. More intimate, with views that will make you feel like you own a ship or two.

Our Experience

There is no doubt that old town Gdańsk is pretty.

Muted hues of orange, yellow, green and more alternate on the skinny buildings. Some are adorned with elaborate casings and paintings. The clock tower anchors and dominates Dluga (Long) street, with St Mary’s Church, the largest brick church in Europe, just off to the side.

But as we wandered through Gdańsk old town, I couldn’t help but be distracted by something else.

“It’s all fake!” the lady at the tourist information office had bluntly proclaimed just minutes before our maiden walk into Old Town. “All the decoration is not real. It all sits on top of concrete Soviet buildings.”

90% of Gdańsk was destroyed in WWII (then known as the “Free City of Danzig”); in fact, the first shots of the war were fired just a few miles away from the Old Town as Germany began their invasion of Poland. Following the end of the war, much debate existed over how to reconstruct the city. Harsh anti-German sentiment wanted to rid the city of all remnants of it (leading up to the war, Germans constituted the large majority of the population), but much debate continued over how to reconstruct it. An homage to the old days, and which period? Modern architecture? Socialist realism (Soviet)?

The result? A complete mix of old and new with a variety of influences within the structures, and the old world painted right on top. And, as another traveler suggested to us: “it’s kinda Disney-ish”.

I could understand where he and the tourist office employee were coming from. Some elements to the facade are questionable, over-the-top even, and definitely don’t speak to the “old world” feel that is intended.

But ultimately, how can it? This small city, all but destroyed in a war, will never have all the elegant antiquity that other cities across Europe manifest. But that doesn’t mean it is lacking for charm – spending just five minutes in the center we were enamoured with the many talents of the variety of street performers, the clock striking on the impressive Town Hall tower, and the buzz of boats and people along the canal.

Looking beyond the outward appearance of any place should be the endeavour of any thoughtful traveler anyways. Taken at face value, and being mindful of its tragic past, Gdańsk carries considerable appeal, well beyond its curb.

Final Thoughts

Gdańsk’s Old Town is the kind of place where you can spend an entire day gawking at architecture, another day untangling its history, and yet another just lingering by the river with an ice cream in hand.

It’s compact, walkable, and brimming with atmosphere—the kind of destination that sneaks up on you and ends up being the highlight of your Poland trip.

So, bring good shoes, a decent appetite, and maybe a camera that can handle pastel overload.

Gdańsk is waiting.

He was dressed smartly in a collared navy button-down and crisp khaki pants. I don’t think he worked for the transit authority in Athens, but instead waited by the gates to help any travelers who looked perplexed by the system. There were a lot of them. “And watch your stuff,” he routinely called out after giving directions and sending commuters on their way.

I purchased my ticket but saw no map and was unsure of where to go next. I approached the elderly man and asked which train I needed to get to the Halandri stop. He furrowed his brow; I had clearly stumped him. No matter though, as the gentleman turned and called out my stop name until another local perked up and offered to help. The young lady waited as I crossed the turnstile and then walked me to the staircase that would lead to the proper platform. “Go down and turn left,” she said. “And watch your stuff!” I expressed a rush of gratitude for this quick but crucial exchange. (The pair’s eagerness to help reminded me of our time in Turkey, but I dared not tell any locals that. I was warned to not even mistakenly call a Greek coffee a Turkish coffee, so I knew to keep further comparisons to myself).

I had embarked on solo travel in Athens worried for my nine days alone, but instead, I felt well taken care of at every step. This capital of Greece proved true to its namesake. As I set out to explore the city and beyond, Athena the Protector kept me safe and very, very happy.

A few of my standout experiences are documented below.

Temple of Poseidon

I’m not a bold solo traveler – I rarely head out on my own – but I found myself feeling inspired on this trip. I stayed outside the tourist area (although Kolonaki may soon be considered as such), and walked to and from the city’s attractions every day. And while it may sound silly to some, my transit experience was perhaps the most adventurous of all I did, taking me to a suburb that not even the quasi-transit authority employee knew about.

Having arrived safely in Halandri, I hopped on a small tour bus (there ended the adventurous portion of my trip!) for a ride to see the Temple of Poseidon on the coast. Roughly an hour away, the time was filled with a local guide disclosing facts about the destination. He took us from the ancient past until modern day, relaying ample facts about the Temple at our destination and its importance as a major monument of the Golden Age. That would be all the time our guide had with us, as he was not allowed to lead us inside the gates surrounding the sacred place. I always prefer this sort of tour, to be honest, so that the precious time visiting the attraction can be spent as I desire with information already in hand.

I chose to take the sunset tour and am perplexed why anyone would do otherwise. The crowds were not large, and even though I have seen plenty of ancient buildings with a stature that easily rivals that Temple, the dusky coastal views and atmosphere were what made this experience stand out.

When the sun finally sunk below the horizon, the dozens of people remaining clapped and hooted in approval. Seconds later, that rapturous moment ended as the gate attendant bluntly yelled at us all to get the hell out. (Well, maybe not in those exact words, but the tone was unmistakable.) I boarded the bus and headed back into Athens, nodding off as the darkness of the day deepened.

The Mighty Acropolis

The city wasn’t always named after the goddess. In the ancient world, King Cecrops, the first royal leader, wanted to give the city a patron god or goddess. According to legend, Athena presented the city with an olive tree; such a practical gift bested Poseidon’s offering of a river of seawater. And thus Athena was named the patroness, and the city henceforth bore her name. Later, the Parthenon, that most famous building towering over the city on a rocky outcrop near its center, would be built in her honour.

Visiting the Parthenon and the other buildings that make up the Acropolis is the single biggest attraction in the city, and rightly so. It’s an unmistakable treasure of dozens of centuries past, standing as a testament to a powerful civilization, and offers a perspective over the area like none other. With over a week stretched out in front of me, I waited until the best possible time to visit, favouring the latter half of the day when most other tourists were already on their way out. Hordes of people still swarmed the site but quiet, shady corners were still available to just sit and admire.

I eat, therefore I know

Did you know that the frappé was invented in Greece? I didn’t until I arrived, but happily gained insight into Greek culture by enjoying it (or a Freddo Cappuccino) every single afternoon. Greek coffee culture is something to be admired.

As is their cuisine, which of course is of no surprise to anyone. And even though Pete is the esteemed chef of the Heck household, I could not pass up the opportunity to learn my favourite dishes and take home recipes that have become my most beloved souvenir. Pete’s rampant enthusiasm for cooking paired with our travels have allowed us to relive fantastic memories right in our kitchen, but after just one morning with The Greek Kitchen, I have henceforth declared this cuisine to be my domain and he’s not allowed to attempt it.

It started with a tour to several markets in the area, something that had been on my to-do list since I arrived in Athens, but always better done with a local who knows her way around. From a cheese shop to rows of meat and fresh veggies, I learned of what raw ingredients are most precious to Greek fare and how to choose them.

Back in the kitchen, we (myself and one other participant from Singapore) set to work. We chopped spinach and garlic; shredded carrots and cucumber. We rolled vine leaves, unrolled sheets of phyllo pastry, squeezed lemons and scooped roasted eggplants. We sipped generous offers of local wines as we cooked up a storm and finally sat down to an epic feast that I still salivate about today.

It was such a large array of food that I had enough to feed myself that night and again the next day. I always knew that I liked Greek cuisine, but this experience firmly moved it into the category of love.

When Pete returned from his Greek island tour after many days away, he did not find a mopey wife craving all of his attention. He found me to be a little more inspired, and a little more empowered and brave. (And maybe just a little bit plumper from all that food and all those frappés.)

I give Athens full credit/blame for all of it, and most especially for the wee turning point that happened within.

how to do it

I found this cozy apartment in Kolonaki that perfectly suited my needs. It got a wee bit noisy on weekend nights (being over a bar), but was otherwise very comfortable and within walking distance to just about everything, including a transit station if anything else was too far. The patio is especially large and was very well used by me!

We landed in the middle of Umbria by default. With two weeks to spare in Italy we cast a wide net – the small, historic town of Spello won out as being one of the only places where we could find an apartment to meet our basic needs. What we didn’t know at the time of booking was how truly captivated we would be. Umbria alone stands as a true testament to the diversity of Italy and even though we’ve now spent several months in the country on several different visits, we come away each time knowing there is still so much left to see and do. Each visit encourages us to return and dig deeper.

Umbria does not get near the attention its neighbour Tuscany does. It hangs in the shadow of tourist magnets Florence and Pisa. Its most popular town of Assisi can get overrun with day-trippers, but few linger to really explore. That fact, for these travellers, is part of Umbria’s infinite draw. And our two weeks there saw us road-trippin’ to far corners of it and even a little beyond, to bring you a photographic tour of the beauty in this region.

spello

It may lack the spiritual significance of nearby Assisi, but anyone looking to share a slice with locals and enjoy an undisturbed photo shoot in a medieval hill town will adore Spello. Most attractions are strung along the main street inside the walls, but the best part is exploring the tidy streets surrounding.

assisi

Millions of visitors descend on Assisi each year, drawn by the story of its most famous resident: St Francis. The town has two medieval castles, scores of tourist services to cater to the millions, and of course the Basilica of San Francesco d’Assisi anchors the historic center at the north end. Italian will not be the first language you hear, but it is a great place to watch nationalities gather and to even help a group of priests from India take a selfie from one of the many vantage points (yep, that happened).

spoleto

A rebuilt Roman theatre, a fortress, a “bloody bridge” named so after the persecution of Christians nearby, and a stunning 13th-century aqueduct that spans a deep gorge and offers sprawling views of the valleys beyond are all offered in Spoleto. Our visit there was one of more memorable trips in the region – but not for a pleasant reason. We spent most of the drive there arguing over who was responsible for our missing the best light of the day for photographs. It is most spectacular at sunset, but take it from BOTH of us, arrive a good hour or two before to avoid the lengthy shadows that fall across the aqueduct.

todi

On our inevitable return to Umbria, we may consider a stay here if not back in Spello. Another adorable hilled town, it towers high above and offers the best views in the area. It’s a real wonder how we were able to waltz through the historic centre almost entirely alone.

santa maria degli angeli

You can see it for miles, the rise of a massive church that towers in the valley below Assisi. The town itself isn’t the main draw, it lacks the quaint charm of its elevated neighbours, but the church is the reason to go. Because it is not just a massive Basilica by the same name, it is a massive Basilica that encloses a tiny church inside that dates centuries earlier.

castelluccio

Much, much more to share from the drive to this tiny town through what is known as the “Piano Grande” . It is hands down the most scenic spot we’ve been to in Italy.

civita di bagnoregio

Okay, so this isn’t technically Umbria. It’s just over the provincial border into Viterbo, but it’s so close that it would be a shame to miss it. As a feature in an episode of the Amazing Race, it had been at the top of Pete’s to-photograph-list for awhile, and so it became a memorable excursion to celebrate his birthday.

Thanks to an earthquake in the 17th century, the town has since eroded to become an island, and the population has dwindled down to as low as 6 residents in the last century. It now has a vibrant tourism economy, but is still known as “the town that is dying” and is considered an endangered site.

We also missed a few other notable spots: the capital city of Perugia, the man-made Marmore waterfalls, Orvieto and more. But as it goes for these travelers, our allotted time is never enough. So instead we leave new destinations for our return.

Imagine waking up every morning in a destination that most people only dream of travelling to. Imagine calling a city that is effortlessly combines history and romance, with a touch of whimsy, your new home.

Delve into the bustling morning rituals of the locals, as they navigate the labyrinth of canals in graceful gondolas, or sip their morning espresso in charming cafés.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant colours and delightful chaos of daily markets, where the tantalizing aromas of fresh Mediterranean seafood and local Italian produce fill the air.

Ah, Venezia. Sometime’s it is impossible to believe that it’s a real city.

To live in Venice, Italy is an exciting endeavour, but it does involve a certain number of steps to consider ahead of time. Here’s a general overview of the process and some key points to keep in mind.

Things To Consider Before You Live in Venice

Research & Planning

Start by conducting general research about how to live in Venice. Learn about the culture, lifestyle, cost of living, transportation, and possibly job opportunities if you want to work.

Consider factors such as language proficiency (Italian is important for daily life), housing options, healthcare, and education if applicable.

We learned about the life of Venetians as a part of our Walks of Italy tour, which also included a gondola ride (the cost of a gondola ride on its own is much more expensive then the cost of this entire tour! Very worth it).

Visa Requirements

As a foreigner, you will typically need a visa to work and live in the city of Venice and the rest of Italy. The type of visa you require will depend on your circumstances, such as employment or study.

You will need to go to the website of the Italian embassy or consulate in your home country to understand the specific visa requirements and gather the necessary documents. You can e mail for more information, and to get assistance with your future planning.

Residence Permit

Once you arrive in Venice with a visa, you must obtain a Permesso di Soggiorno (residence permit) within a specific timeframe. This process involves submitting additional documents, such as proof of accommodation, proof of financial means, health insurance, and a valid visa.

If you are moving with your family, make sure that everyone is covered.

Finding Real Estate in to live in Venice

Venice is known for its fantastic architecture, but to find affordable housing within the floating city can be quite difficult, particularly in the historic centre.

You will need to begin searching for accommodation well in advance and consider exploring the neighbouring areas for more affordable options, even many Venetians that work here prefer to commute into the city. Taking a boat to work? Say no more.

Depending on your budget, renting will likely be easier than trying to buy property to live in Venice, and you may need to visit Venice beforehand to scope things out on foot first.

Where We Stayed in Venice

Finding affordable accommodations to visit the city of Venice can be difficult (and we left it far too late as well, book early)! We found this one to be a bit crowded but a good place for the short time we were there. It was near a bus stop so easy to get into Venice.

Try checking hotels situated on the Venice side streets for more affordable options.

Other options:

High-End Hotel

The incredibly elegant Gritti Palace has unbelievable views of the canal, a great restaurant, and is overall an amazing experience.

Mid-Range Hotel

Hotel Al Codega is a great boutique hotel option where the service feels personalized. It’s located right between St Marks Square and the Rialto Bridge, but is away from the hustle and bustle on the side streets.

Budget Hotel

The hotel keeper at Alloggi Barbaria speaks 7 languages, and would be more than happy to give you a map and tell you how to get around the city. The rooms are simple, but a continental breakfast is offered before you take on the day.

Integration & Language

Embracing the local language and culture in is essential for a smooth transition when moving anywhere. Consider taking Italian classes to help enhance your day to day communication skills, and immerse yourself in the Venetian way of life.

Job Opportunities

If you plan to work in Venice, Italy, research the local job market and understand any specific requirements or qualifications needed in your field. Try networking, online job portals, and contacting local companies to help in securing employment ahead of time.

Length of the Process

The time required for the entire process of live in the city of Venice can vary depending on your home country, such as visa processing times and availability of appointments. You should definitely start the process well in advance, as some steps may take several months to complete.

Expat Community

Venice is a popular destination for tourists and expatriates alike. You will find a diverse community of foreigners, which can provide a support system and you integrate to your new life. Having friends in a new place always makes things a little easier.

While the process of moving to Venice does involve certain logistical challenges, with careful planning and preparation, it is possible to make this dream a reality.

Not that you needed any convincing, but let’s talk abut the unique benefits of living in Venice, Italy. There are more than a few, and might even sway your decision to stay in this enticing destination longer than planned.

Here are some reasons why it can be a wonderful place to live..

Benefits to Live In Venice

Culinary Delights

Italy is known for its exceptional cuisine, and Venice is no exception. Indulge traditional pasta dishes, seafood straight from the Adriatic Sea, delectable gelato, and exquisite wines. Venice offers a culinary journey that will delight foodies and satisfy even the most hard-to-please palates.

Proximity to Other European Destinations

Being in the heart of Europe provides convenient access to explore the rest of the continent, to even jet off to Africa or Asia as ease. Take a short train ride to tour Florence, Rome, or Milan, or perhaps venture a bit further to experience the nearby wonders of Austria, Slovenia, or Croatia.

Venice, Italy is located at the doorstep of Europe, and the rest of the world.

The Culture of Venice

The local culture of Venice boasts magnificent landmarks like St. Mark’s Basilica, Piazza San Marco, Doge’s Palace, The Grand Canal, and the Rialto Bridge. Living in the floating city allows you to immerse yourself in this vibrant cultural tapestry, surrounded by masterpieces of art and centuries of captivating stories.

There will be something new to learn every day in this lagoon city.

Unique Lifestyle

The Venetian lifestyle, even compared to the rest of Italy, is undeniably distinctive and captivating. It invites you to embrace a slower pace, relishing in the simple joys of leisurely strolls, savouring mouthwatering Italian cuisine, and delighting in refreshing aperitivos by the water’s edge.

The close-knit neighbourhoods and tight-knit community foster a warm and inviting ambiance, making you feel right at home in this unique city.

Cultural Events and Festivals

Venice hosts an array of cultural events and festivals unlike any other throughout the year. From the renowned Venice Carnival with its elaborate masks and costumes to the Venice Biennale, one of the world’s most prestigious art exhibitions, you will never lack something to celebrate.

Our Experience

In our unique situation of being homeless for more than five years, I expect that we look at most destinations differently than other tourists in that we sometimes value a place based on our desire to live there. And being the rose-rimmed people that we are, the answer is often yes (at least for a short term). There are rarely places that we don’t like and write off immediately.

But to put the city of Venice under such a microscope is a tough one. All the extraordinary things that make the city a wonder for tourists may also be that which makes it unbearable as a resident.

The island poses many confusing contradictions: a slower pace with the lack of cars, yet home to such a thriving tourism industry that the tiny streets become clogged with millions of annual visitors.

The canals, adorned with vibrant old-world buildings that appear to float on them, cause heartless humidity and highlight its obvious fragility. Venice is sinking, some say at up to a rate of almost eight inches every century and flooding is a regular occurrence.

The island is sinking and the population is shrinking. There are less than 60,000 people living in the city, and more than that many step off of cruise ships each day to snap selfies, buy souvenirs from the shops, and be on their way. And it’s not likely that those souvenirs are even in support of the artists who live there, but instead are cheap knock-offs imported from the east. Venice’s economy is almost entirely dependent on the mass tourism, but struggles to find balance with it.

While only a couple of kilometres wide, it can take up an hour to cross the small island, given the maze of tiny streets and bridges. Food is much more expensive than on the mainland, plus the groceries, and any other purchase for that matter, are most often lugged in shoulder bags from market to home. Bicycles are allowed only for children.

I would suppose that to enjoy living in Venice would be to accept it as a challenging lifestyle and a specific way of life. After awhile, it would all likely seem very normal, similar to how this vagabond lifestyle has become for us.

I expect it would be worth it (especially for being able to see this best view in Venice on the daily). Not only is Venice the pure definition of romance (maybe even moreso than any other place we’ve ever visited), and any place that requires rowing as a livable skill would be acceptable by us.

(For a little while, at least, which is our answer almost every time we pose this question. Venice, Italy is a bit of a “thinker” though.)

So, now that you are armed with all of the knowledge to begin the steps to move to Italy, and you know all of the reason you will love living there, the only question is when do you leave?

Venice beckons you to embark on a life filled with beauty, culture, and unforgettable experiences.

It’s not just a dream—it can be your reality.

Before we arrived in Romania my idea of their typical cuisine was meat and potatoes. I expected that vegetables were pretty much non-existent in Romanian food and finding a good salad would be a challenge.

I was half right. Meat is definitely a big part of Romanian food, and they really know how to do meat right. Starches are served with every meal. Salads were a challenge, at least ones without cabbage in them, but not impossible to find.

So what did we eat?

soup

Bean soup (pictured left) is a staple in Romania. It is prepared differently in various regions throughout the country, but the concept is similar: stick-to-the-bones-soul-food. My favourite variation was in Bucharest, prepared with bacon and vegetables and served in a bread bowl. While in Sinca Noua more we savoured a chicken noodle soup and a pork rib and vegetable soup (bones still in) as a starter to every meal.

meat

The Romanians know meat, especially sausage. Upon visiting numerous traditional Romanian restaurants we usually found a whole section dedicated to sausages alone. The most common being mici (pronounced michi) which is a finger sized grilled mince meat sausage, usually consisting of beef mixed with pork and sheep, and then heavily spiced with garlic, pepper and paprika. These are quite common in street food stalls accompanied with a pint of beer. Menus will have easy items such as pork and chicken schnitzels, and for the more adventurous eaters the Romanians embrace the “whole animal” concept. We found brains, testicles and other parts of the pig on the menu and we put it to ourFacebook fans to decide which one I would try. The testicles pictured above won out – they were quite tasty but a little chewy.

typical meals

Typical Romanian food consists of a meat and a carb. Sarmale (pictured upper left, better known as cabbage rolls) is one of Dalene’s favourite meals and very typical throughout the country and entire region. A pilaf (bottom left) with tomatoes, carrots, onions and dill, and mashed potatoes soaked in butter (bottom right) is also popular. On another occasion I enjoyed a blended grilled meat dish served in a phylo pastry bowl to absorb all the juices from the meat.

Pizza is also very common throughout Romania – in some towns your only restaurant choices will be Romanian and a pizza joint. Although it is no Italy, the pie is generally cheap and tasty. The menus also have sauces on the side (tomato and spicy) and are recommended as generally the sauce is spread thin on the dough.

side dishes

Potatoes, polenta, rice. One thing to be aware of when ordering food in a Romanian restaurant is that main dishes do not come with sides. Peasant potatoes (pictured left) was one of our favourite side dishes and how could it not be? Pan fried potatoes with big chunks of bacon and onions. Polenta is also a very popular Romanian side dish and it is served in various ways, the most common being mamaliga, topped with cheese and sour cream (pictured top right) or with traditional cheese baked inside (middle right). One thing is for sure, ordering one of these side dishes with our meal meant that we never left the restaurant feeling hungry.

Salads generally consisted of tomatoes, cucumbers, onions and or cabbage. While we ordered a salad with every meal after a couple weeks our bodies were craving green veggies.

Our last city in Romania was Sibiu where we managed to find an incredible salad (bottom left). Topped with goat cheese, hazelnuts and an assortment of fresh vegetables with a vinaigrette glaze, it was a nice change from the heavy Romanian food.

desserts and sweets

Known as the Romanian donut, Gogosi is pan fried dough tossed with icing sugar. Dalene had the chance to make these with the family during our stay in Sinca Noua and learned the secret ingredient of lemon zest in the dough to give it just a hint of citrus.

We had expected to see dumplings on menus as side dishes or mains, but surprisingly we only found them in the dessert sections topped with fruit or chocolate.

Upon leaving Sinca Noua, our host family gave us a bag of cozonac for the journey. This light pound cake did not last the journey.

drink

I was shocked how much I enjoyed Romanian beer. I was expecting typical lager type brews with not much variety. Instead I found there are some very nice dark beers and best of all, very cheap. The dark beers I enjoyed were Ursus Black and Silva. Dalene enjoyed the Ursus Lemon which is a low alcohol percentage radler type beer, refreshing on a hot day.

Romania has mastered the art of lemonade. Every restaurant offers it freshly squeezed and some even put there creative spins on the beverage. From basic mint to mixed berries we tried all sorts of blends.

Palinka is a double distilled product with an alcohol percentage between 40-70% and is made from fermented plums. It is found all throughout Romania and we both think that this might be the secret to the long life of the Romanians.

Another popular liquor, vișinată or visne is made by mixing fermented sour cherries with sugar and vodka. The quality of the drink highly depends on the quality of the fruit and it is why it is recommended that the fruit be hand picked. After the 100 days the fruit is filtered out leaving a smooth syrupy goodness.

overall

Our impression of what Romanian food would be like was not far off. Heavy, simple meals consisting mainly of meat and carbs which are intended to stick to one’s bones. We enjoyed most of the food, but were excited to find a green leafy salad after a month.

While we stayed over a month, we definitely didn’t get a chance to try it all, and a Romanian menu is a diverse one.