Being situated across a group of 117 small islands that are separated by canals and linked by bridges, Venice is a city like no other. It is long hailed as the most breathtaking city on earth where water shimmers everywhere. It is once the world’s greatest port and Venetian merchants created an impossible city of incredible wealth with lots of cultural treasures, holy relics, elegant palazzos, architectural jewels, and outstanding artworks.
Exploring with a baby/toddler in Venice is not as hard as you think. Venice might be known to be the city of bridges for the city is filled with hundreds of bridges, but they are accessible too. Visitors (or even locals) with a baby stroller usually cross the bridge backwards to enable them to pull the baby stroller easier. Parents may also opt to carry the baby stroller across the bridge or use a baby carrier for more convenience. It would be advisable to use a narrower stroller if available as the streets and bridges may get crowded during peak seasons.
Bridge in Rio de la Cazziola e de Ca’ Rizzi, near the Stazione di Venezia Santa Lucia.
Most of the restaurants and eating places are very accommodating and the locals are very friendly. Some even allows the baby to seat on the stroller while the baby / toddler eats. Most of the restaurants also have alfresco dining so your baby can people watch while eating.
If queuing on museums and attractions is an issue as toddlers gets to be bored in queues, parents can just explore the streets and views of Venice. It is often quoted than Venice is a city to to get lost in, following winding alleyways that suddenly emerge into quiet piazzas and onto the steps of ancient churches.
Busy street of Rio Terà S. Leonardo.
When the crowd in the city becomes to tight, there are places to catch your breath like the waterfront promenades… or the sleepy canals and spacious piazzas.
Gelateria Nico, with seats where visitors can indulge in a relaxing view and watch the boats passing by.
One of the smaller canals.
You can also explore the city via vaporetto, water taxi, rent a motorized boat or ride in true Venetian style, by gondola. Visitors can begin their journey along one of the world’s great aquatic thoroughfares, The Grand Canal which winds through Venice for almost two and a half miles. The gondolas have comfortable seats that even children will surely enjoy.
Vaporetto cruising along the Grand Canal.
Family exploring the city through a motorized boat.
Visitors enjoying the view of the city from a gondola.
Venice has indeed a way of capturing the hearts of visitors. The spectacular palaces and ancient churches reflect centuries of history, a perfect reflection of a city that cherishes its past and embraces the new. It may be beautiful in photos and films but the real thing is more dreamlike than you could imagine.
Front view of the graceful dome of Santa Maria della Salute.
The famous Doge’s Palace in St. Mark’s Square which was once the seat of the republic’s power and prestige.
The Bridge of Sigh, a bridge that connects the Doge’s Palace to the historic prison. From an enclosed walkway, the condemned would capture one last look at their beloved city.
Santa Maria della Salute view from the Ponte dell’Accademia Bridge.