Venice is probably one of the most photographed and Instagrammed places in Europe, and it’s not hard to see why. The romantic canals, the classical architecture, the famous landmarks – it’s basically photographer Heaven. If you want to make your friends and followers jealous with your #travelbrag posts, I’ve got some ideas about where to find those standout shots for your feed. As a bonus tip, consider visiting in the winter months, when the weather is cooler and the crowds are smaller.
Related: More posts on Italy
Covered in pigeons in St. Mark’s Square
You’ll get some nice buildings in the background, too. Piazza San Marco is almost as famous for its millions of pigeons as it is for being the home of the Doge’s Palace, St. Mark’s Basilica, and the giant campanile. The ‘Birdman of Alcatraz’ look is certainly fun, but remember not to use the promise of food to encourage the pigeons to perch on you – feeding the birds in the square is illegal. If you’re more interested in hitting the #travelbrag tag, Caffè Florian has the vintage look, but with luxury price tags. Best Time: Early morning, before the crowds arrive
A selfie with Rialto Bridge in the background
Near it, not on it. The Ponte di Rialto is beautiful and iconic, but it’s a bit of a victim of its own popularity. It’s best as a backdrop anyway, so head for some of the quiet piers nearby. They’re sometimes used by gondoliers, so be nice and get out of their way when they’re making a stop. Best Time: Mid- to late-afternoon, for the best light
The Bridge of Sighs
#Sigh. For such a small bridge, spanning only about 8 metres, the Ponte dei Sospiri is remarkably beautiful. Head to the nearby Ponte della Paglia for the best angle and shoot through the balustrade to add an interesting frame. Be prepared to wait your turn as it’s a popular spot. Best Time: Any time of day.
The Grand Canal from above
The must-have shot. The Grand Canal is as iconic a place in Venice as you can get. It’s not hard to see why either, with the colourful historical buildings that line its banks. There are only four bridges spanning it, but they are probably the best places to take photos from. Best Time: Any time of day
Gondolier and little canals
Get away from the crowds. Yes, it’s pricey to hire a gondola. Yes, it’s worth it. Explore the narrow, quieter waterways by gondola for some unique shots, with the gondolier as both guide and model. Best Time: Any time of day
Gondolas along Riva Degli Schiavone
Also San Giorgio Maggiore across the water. Hit the #gondolas hashtag and you can almost guarantee that most of the popular posts will have been taken from this busy waterfront near St. Mark’s Square. It’s one of the most iconic scenes of Venice and a must-shoot. Come late for a better chance of getting the place to yourself. Best Time: Blue hour, just after sunset.
Local alleyways around Cannaregio
Get off the beaten path. The northern bit of Venice is the best place to go for the real #LikeALocal experience, and the narrow alleys (or calle) provide backdrops for some unique shots, with no tourists getting in the way. Best Time: Any time of day.
Colourful houses on Burano Island
It’s worth the 40-minute boat ride. Walking down any street or along any canal on Burano is like taking a trip through a rainbow. It’s quite a small place, so have a walk around to find somewhere away from the crowds. In addition, hotels located in Burano are generally more affordable than those in the centre of Venice, so remember this when planning your future stay. Best Time: Any time of day, but especially around sunset.
Rooftops from Scala Contarini del Bovolo
#Cityscape #Skyline while St. Mark’s Campanile will definitely give you the highest viewpoint in Venice, the Scala Contarini del Bovolo is less busy and arguably more beautiful. The arcade is still high enough for those sweeping vistas, but also has the iconic bell tower in the background. Best Time: Late afternoon for the best light.
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Until next time, be jealous friends. Be jealous.
Udeety
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