Venice was once one of the main ports of call for young aristocrats doing their “Grand Tour”. It is still high on the list of most travelers enjoying Europe train travel. This city of canals has been described as “undoubtedly the most beautiful city built by man” and with that commendation, one can hardly whiz by without stopping.

European train tickets such as the  Eurail Regional pass or Eurail Select pass can make Venice very easy to reach. Most intercity, regional and local trains connect with Venice’s Santa Lucia train station. Venice is built on 117 small islands in the Venetian Lagoon of the Adriatic Sea. One of the most impressive ways to approach the city for the first time is by train across the Ponte della Liberta bridge.

The 1950s station itself is more serviceable than beautiful – there is a left luggage office near platform 14 which you may want to take advantage of and even a luggage transport system called Cooperativa Trasbagagli (tel.+390415203070), leaving you luggage-free to enjoy the sights.

The impact of seeing the city as you step out of the station is a breathtaking moment as the magical city of Venice is spread out before you. The reasonably priced vaporetto (watertaxi) stop is right below the station, although the district of San Marco is less than a mile away if you choose to walk. Admire the countless churches, bridges, palazzos and museums which demand your attention at every turn. The main highway is the Grand Canal with its busy water traffic and iconic gondolas which make a unique picture.

St Mark’s Basilica is the main attraction in Venice. Unlike other churches in Venice it is free to enter but there is an admission fee to visit the museum, high altar and treasury. From the top of the bell tower there are superb views of the city. Nearby on St Mark’s Square is the magnificent Doge’s Palace (worth doing a tour) and the fascinating Astronomical Clock.

Art lovers will not want to miss the Peggy Guggenheim Museum but the most significant art museum in Venice is the Galleria dell’Accademia. Many of the churches have valuable Renaissance artworks and frescoes too. Enjoy exploring the narrow streets, dine at outdoor cafés and discover the beauty of Venice for yourself.

Unique, historic and enchanting, if you are touring Europe and have flexible Europe rail tickets, Venice is a definite must-do!

You can also tour Venice with a Eurail Global pass but be sure to check your options and planned route on our main site before purchasing.