Venice is a must see and should be at the top of your list. This was my first trip and the whole CIMBA group went. It’s close enough to Paderno del Grappa to feel comfortable, but at the same time a whole different world. Florence was also amazing. It had more to offer than Venice, so it was a good third trip. I also highly recommend going there. Here are some recommendations:
Venice
Where to Stay
San Marco city sector is the best. It’s close to everything important.
Sights
St. Mark’s Square, St. Mark’s Basilica, Walk along the water next to the Square, The Rialto bridge, Doge’s Palace
Food and Drinks
To eat cheap, get a few of Venice’s specialty called cucchetti, which looks like pieces of toast with all sorts of toppings at about 2 euro a piece; Restaurants are expensive; Pako’s Pizza & Pasta, quick and cheap; Devils Forest Pub, very American. Average drink prices at about 7 euros.
Florence
Where to Stay
My group stayed in the Santa Maria Novella section of the city, close to the train station, but a 10 min walk from everything; The other group stayed in San Giovanni close to the water, which I would recommend because the walk by the water is beautiful.
Sights
–Important note!! Book to see these sights ASAP as they sell out extremely fast: Statue of David in the Accademia Gallery, Uffizi Gallery, Duomo (there is a free tour and a 20-euro tour for a better view), and cross the Ponte Vecchio bridge. Piazzale Michelangelo is a must-see and has an amazing sunset and view of the city.
Food and Drinks
Best restaurant: SE STO on Arno Rooftop Bar, expensive, but best view of city; Best American breakfast: the Rooster café; Second best American breakfast: Le Vespe café; Fun karaoke bar: The Red Garter. Pro-tip: go in for dinner around 9pm and then go to the bar by 10ish. Otherwise, you won’t get in; The Old Stove pub: you will get on their Instagram if you go @theoldstoveirishpub.