Venice has stolen visitors’ hearts for decades, including ours. The canals, bridges, and historic palazzos… it’s simply magical! Being one of the must-visit destinations in Italy, Venice does not see a day without crowds and sky-high prices. So, you might want to discover other places with romantic waterways, charming architecture, and that unique, old-world charm. These alternatives to Venice will make you fall in love (and also saving some money).
Alternatives to Venice – Summary
- Ravenna, Italy
- Padua, Italy
- Annecy, France
- Rovinj, Croatia
- Salamanca, Spain
- Aveiro, Portugal
- Empuriabrava, Spain
- Kyoto, Japan
- Wuzhen, China
1. Ravenna, Italy
Ravenna, tucked away in northern Italy, might not float on water like Venice, but it shares the city’s Byzantine elegance. Basilica of San Vitale stands proudly in the middle of the city, resembling Venice’s St. Mark’s Basilica. Besides that, get ready to be stunned by Ravenna’s collection of mosaics that date back to the early Christian era. Visiting Ravenna feels like entering a time machine, taking you to quieter legends.
Why it’s a great alternative to Venice:
- Less touristy, more authentic Italian vibes
- Stunning UNESCO World Heritage sites
- Easy-going canals along the nearby coast
- Just a short trip from Venice if you still want to squeeze both in
2. Padua, Italy
Just 30 minutes from Venice by train, Padua (Padova) delivers cobbled streets, charming piazzas, and Italy’s oldest botanical garden. It’s got canals too, but without the gondola traffic jam.
Why it’s a great alternative to Venice:
- Historic canals with peaceful walks
- Buzzing local markets and hidden cafes
- The iconic Scrovegni Chapel with Giotto’s frescoes
- Perfect for a day trip or laid-back stay
3. Annecy, France
Annecy is one of those places that looks straight out of a fairy tale. Think canals weaving through pastel-colored houses, snow-capped mountains in the distance, and a shimmering lake perfect for a sunset stroll.
Why it’s a great alternative to Venice:
- Canals, bridges, and Alpine charm
- Lake Annecy for swimming or paddleboarding
- Fewer tourists, especially outside summer
- Delicious French food and cozy old-town streets
4. Rovinj, Croatia
Rovinj brings all the Venetian charm with a Croatian twist. This seaside town was once part of the Venetian Republic, so the influence is everywhere—from the narrow lanes to the bell towers.
Why it’s a great alternative to Venice:
- Venetian-style old town by the sea
- Beautiful coastal views and sunsets
- Seafood heaven without the price tag
- Great base for exploring Istria
5. Salamanca, Spain
Okay, Salamanca doesn’t have canals, but what it does have is golden sandstone architecture, historic squares, and that same feeling of stepping into history. It’s like Venice’s warm, Spanish cousin.
Why it’s a great alternative to Venice:
- Rich history and UNESCO sites
- Gorgeous plazas and university town vibes
- Fewer crowds, more local experiences
- Vibrant nightlife and tapas galore
6. Aveiro, Portugal
Known as the “Venice of Portugal,” Aveiro has colorful moliceiro boats gliding along its canals, Art Nouveau buildings, and a super laid-back vibe. Plus, Portugal’s pastries? Yes, please.
Why it’s a great alternative to Venice:
- Canals, bridges, and gondola-style boats
- Brightly colored buildings and tiled facades
- Beaches and salt flats nearby
- Affordable and still under-the-radar
7. Empuriabrava, Spain
This coastal gem in Catalonia is basically Venice designed for modern living—with a Mediterranean beach twist. Empuriabrava has over 24 km of navigable canals, and many houses come with their own boat dock!
Why it’s a great alternative to Venice:
- Extensive canals for exploring by boat
- Beautiful beaches within walking distance
- Great for water sports lovers
- Laid-back coastal town atmosphere
8. Kyoto, Japan
You might wonder how in the world Kyoto makes it way to an ‘alternatives to Venice’ list. The two might seem worlds apart, but they do share something in common. Venice is known as Italy’s historical capital, so does Kyoto. Both cities boasts fascinating religious landmarks – Venice with St. Mark Basilica and Kyoto with its Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Kyoto’s historic Gion district, wooden houses, and cherry blossom-lined canals offer a tranquil, romantic vibe that rivals Venice’s charm—just with a Japanese twist.
Why it’s a great alternative to Venice:
- Traditional canals and historic districts
- Unique cultural experiences (tea houses, temples)
- Stunning gardens and seasonal beauty
- Far fewer crowds compared to touristy hotspots
9. Wuzhen, China
Wuzhen is one of China’s famous water towns, with ancient bridges, stone alleys, and canals winding through the old town. It’s peaceful, atmospheric, and feels like stepping into a living museum.
Why it’s a great alternative to Venice:
- Traditional canal town with historic architecture
- Serene boat rides along the waterways
- Authentic Chinese culture and cuisine
- Much quieter and more affordable than Venice
Ready to skip the crowds but keep the charm?
Whether you’re dreaming of pastel towns in France, hidden gems in Italy, or canal-side strolls in Asia, these Venice alternatives tick all the boxes. And the best part? You don’t have to plan it all yourself.
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