Avis car hire in Venice and beyond
Venice is one of the most beautiful and romantic cities in the world. Explore the historic centre and the famous Piazza San Marco, discover the Grand Canal in a classic Gondola and visit the many churches, palaces and squares across the city.Book now
Your top rental locations in Venice
Plan your journey around Venice
The Venice Downtown area is close to the heart of the city’s sightseeing district. Numerous points of interest are within easy reach, including the spectacular Piazza San Marco. Translated as St Mark’s Square, this is one of the city’s most famous sights, and also where the three main attractions, Basilica di San Marco, Doge’s Palace and Torre dell’Orologio, are situated.The city is also famous for its canal system; Venice is the only city in the world built entirely on water. No trip would be complete without a ride along the iconic waterways, either by gondola ride or water taxi.
If you want to get a bird’s-eye view of the city, climb St Mark’s Campanile. At almost 99 metres, it’s Venice’s tallest building. Take the lift to the top for a chance to see incredible views of the Lido sandbar and Venetian lagoon. On a clear day, it's possible to see the Dolomites mountain range.
Music lovers will be spoilt for choice with various concerts and recitals happening throughout the year in Venice. The Teatro Malibran and Teatro Toniolo host their own chamber music seasons and Basilica di San Marco has occasional ceremonial concerts.
After enjoying the evening’s entertainment, Venice has a huge selection of restaurants and cafes to try out. Sample some of the best in north Italian cuisine, including Ventian tapas known as cicchetti.
Pick up the keys to your Avis hire car from Venice to explore north-eastern Italy at your own pace.
Road trips from Venice
North-eastern Italy is a delightful part of the country, offering everything from historic towns to secluded mountain villages. With Venice Downtown as your starting point, there are endless sightseeing options to explore in your Avis rental car.Verona
About an hour and a half away from central Venice, via the A4 and E70 route, is Verona. This enchanting city, which is the setting and inspiration for Shakespeare’s ‘Romeo and Juliet’, is steeped in history and has plenty to offer in terms of museums, galleries and historic sites. Piazza delle Erbe is a good place to start; once a Roman forum it’s now a delightful piazza with a 14th century fountain at its centre and a selection of cafes and bars.
Padua
Less than an hour away by car from Venice, Padua's medieval market places and hip student population is a world away but equally fascinating. There are numerous historic buildings and monuments to visit, but its biggest attraction is the Scrovegni Chapel, which boasts priceless frescoes by Giotto. In the town centre, there are charming narrow streets, picturesque churches and an art gallery to enjoy.
Trentino and the Dolomites
Offering stunning scenery, good food and a relaxed atmosphere, the province of Trentino is the ideal place for those interested in hiking, skiing or water-sports. From your starting point in Venice, it’s just under a two-hour drive (via the A4/E70 and A22/E45) to this pretty province. The area has seven natural parks and the spectacular Dolomites mountain range is on full show.