Mama loves Mela Verde gelato

Today’s post is dedicated to friends with the incredible fortune of traveling to Venice, Italy this summer. The Nosy Parker family has spent a lot of time in Venice — it is like a home away from home for us. A college friend of mine is there on her honeymoon now, and as I perused her photos from Venice today, I thought about my top 5 favorite things I’d recommend in this magical city.

Best Gelato EVER: La Mela Verde (link to map to help you find it)

La Mela Verde features a large variety of unusual flavors — as well as all of your favorites. They use fresh, natural ingredients and are priced reasonably. Obviously it’s good stuff — just look at that grin on Mama’s face! Say hi to owner Davide for us. He and his sweet wife Viviana make the best gelato in the whole world!

Our beloved Taverna al Remer in the Campiello (courtyard) outside our front door

Best Happy Hour Deal with a View: Taverna al Remer (link to map to help you find it)

Located in the Campiello del Remer, this tucked away bar and restaurant has a fantastic happy hour every evening. For 5 Euro, you get a drink and buffet. Plus you’ll get to enjoy one of the best views of the Rialto Bridge that you’ll ever see! Not to be missed! Our apartment was in this enchanting campiello our first year and we fell in love with the place.

The incomparable and truly awesome Ristorante da Raffaele

Best Romantic Dinner Spot: Ristorante Da Raffaele (link to map to help you find it)

This cozy, tucked-away restaurant has delightful canal-side dining where you’ll often find yourself serenaded by passing gondoliers. The food is incredible as well — hands down the best gnocchi al gorgonzola I’ve ever tasted and I’m very picky about this dish. The owner Renato is adorable and makes you feel very welcome. And don’t miss out on their wine and desserts, which are not to be missed! Da Raffaele is near San Marco, but hidden away from the teeming crowds. It’s worth the hunt.

Alessandro, owner of La Ricerca, and his graphic map of Venice

Best Local Shop for Unique Souvenirs: La Ricerca (link to map to help you find it)

After you’ve finished gobbling up your dinner at Da Raffaele, stop by our friend Alessandro’s shop next door. It’s called La Ricerca. He’s a book binder by trade, but he owns this fantastic shop filled with interesting and unique treasures. The prices are reasonable and the varied souvenirs and gifts you’ll take home are far above and beyond any junk you’ll find at a typical souvenir shop. Some of our favorite Venetian treasures and artwork is from Alessandro’s shop! Please say hello to this sweet man for us too!

The Nosy Parker family lost in Venice (photo courtesy: Diane Rauchwerger)

Best Activity: Getting Lost

Getting lost likely won’t be by choice; it’s really just the nature of traveling in Venice. But if you go with the flow and enjoy being lost in this magical place, it’ll be great and you’ll have wonderful adventures! Especially make sure to go out in the evening when the cruise ship masses have left. It’s fantastic! Of course, a gondola ride is a classic activity and a lot of fun. It’s a nice view of Venice, but it is also very pricey. Getting lost and experiencing the culture is free and some of the best fun you’ll encounter!

Today’s #OneGoodThing is sharing my Venice Top 5 with you and traveling vicariously through friends! I hope you enjoy and please say hi to our Venetian friends if you’re going!

Day 157 of 366.

What was your #OneGoodThing today? Please share in the comments?

P.S. These are NOT paid advertisements. These are OUR favorite places in Venice — and if we were in Venice now, you’d find us in these places! What are your favorite places in Venice to add to this list? Please share in the comments!!!