A look back at a wonderful birthday trip to the city on water…

View from our room onto the canal, the stunning hotel gardens, the pool was a nice break from all the touristy stuff. Wearing Prada jumper, Zara skirt, DG shoes, Gucci bag, and then Dolce & Gabbana swimsuit.
Surprisingly Venice was never near the top of my ‘Places to Visit’ list (I love lists!) but ever since coming to Italy for the first time a couple of years ago and falling in love with Rome, I made it my mission to see all the best parts of this stunning country (see my pics from Florence last month).
So last year we hopped on a short flight and then took an hours boat transfer to Hotel Cipriani. Located on it’s own separate island, it’s a perfect spot to see all the beautiful sights (just a quick coplimetary boat ride across to St Mark’s Square) but it’s also is an ideal escape from the busy cobbled streets and canals, especially when it get’s really packed in the afternoon.
You don’t need more than a weekend to explore Venice as unlike Rome there isn’t as much to do, the main wonder of it is that it’s a city built on water, completely unique and fascinating (so lovely to not see any cars, buses or bikes for a change!) My favourite spot was the Rialto bridge which is best viewed from a gondola so I suggest a short tour around the most interesting sights on the canal including the house of Casanova. Tip: negotiate before getting on, it’s always good to haggle and most hotels are great for advising how much you should pay.

Celebrating at Hotel Cipriani wearing Dolce & Gabbana dress, Chanel bag and Christian Louboutin shoes.
The staff at our hotel were absolutely wonderful and made our birthday celebrations extra special. We had a fantastic meal at the Oro restaurant which was much needed as we struggled to find somewhere particularly nice to eat in the centre. A shame considering I love Italian food but I’m not too sure about the Venetian take (canal fish and picked onions anyone?)
Now if you find the time, I recommend a trip to Burano and Murano. In Burano you’ll see all the pretty candy coloured houses and get to explore the shops to find some of the most amazing lace which this village is famous for. Murano is known for the old traditional way of making the well renowned Murano glass which can be spotted in pretty much any good hotel in Italy.
Unique in it’s beauty and history, Venice is definitely worth being on your list and maybe a little bit higher than I had it! And now after living in London for 9 years, I can’t wait to celebrate our first ever birthday here with the whole family next Tuesday, so make sure to follow my Instagram and Snapchat (search diana) for all the latest…
Wishing you all a fab weekend! x
Beautiful photos, makes me miss Venice. Have a great weekend 🙂
http://www.mintnotion.com
Thank you, hope you have a good one too! x
Ugh a good throwback to a vaca is always needed, gorgeous photos!!
xoxo
http://brookiewords.blogspot.com/
Thank you! x
Beautiful pictures! It sounds like you had a wonderful trip. I am going to check out all of your recommendations next time I am there!
xo,
Jessica
http://www.fortheloveofbubbly.com
Thank you Jess, Im glad you found it useful! x
Beautiful pictures!
I will be travelling there in September 😀 Very excited now i have seen these.
Happy Birthday!!!!! xxX
Thank you so much! Im sure you will have the best time! x
Beautiful photos! I really want to go to Venice one day x
http://www.looking-glass.ca
Thank you, hope you do you’ll love it! x
wow…such beautiful pics 🙂 I really love them 🙂
http://lovelyattitude.com
Thank you! x
I wish I visited Venice when I was in Italy a few years back. Your trip looks and sounds beautiful. Loving all of your killer outfits too. I’ve never taken a trip for my birthday, but this year my boyfriend and I are going to the Dominican Republic. Have a wonderful birthday trip!
Shae @ Current Habits
Thank you so much and have the most amazing time at Dominicans! x
Venice looks amazing. I hope I can visit one day. Love your D&G dress!
xx
Thank you hun! x
Venice is gorgeous through your post <3
xx
majnira.com
Never been to Venice and it’s so great that you’ve shared this photos with us!
Very interesting post!
Tanya
http://www.stripesnvibes.com
BlogLovin
Thank you, Venice was a dream x
Gorgeous photos! Definitely inspired to take a trip after reading your post!! xx
http://www.flauntandcenter.com
Thank you! x
These travel pictures are awesome and make me feel like travelling again! Love your swimsuit, it’s gorgeous!
Prudence
http://www.prudencepetitestyle.com
Thank you! I love traveling too, wish I did it more often x
woaw beautiful! what an incredible trip – and your floral suit is bomb
http://dayinmydreams.com/
Thank you lovely! x
Sounds like an amazing trip, Venice is one of our favorite little places to explore. So many little facets! Perfect throwback!
xx 365Hangers
Happy Monday, lovely! YOU look incredible in Venice! Love Italy, thanks for sharing! Seriously love stopping by your blog!
Sending you much love!!!
xoxo, Vanessa
http://www.whatwouldvwear.net
thank you so much Vanessa! xxx
Wow, this is lovely! Thanks for sharing!
Xo
Jeanie
http://www.thefashionlotus.com
gorgeous photos dear:)
#GIVEAWAY! win 2 pieces from my Belle Noir collection & a watch
Wow, looks amazing! What a great birthday! I love that swimsuit! Such a perfect shot overlooking the pool.
Christie
The Closet by Christie
http://www.theclosetbychristie.com
So jealous of your trip to Venice!! I’ve always wanted to go there! I’m also loving your one piece suit!
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looks like you had a great time in Venice, great pics
have a wonderful day, my dear
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