Lido City Breaks

Lido, in the Floating City of Venice, is a narrow, 11-kilometre-long island in the Venetian Lagoon, just south of the city’s historic centre. Once an important Italian military island forming part of the city’s defence, it’s now Venice’s hottest beach hangout. There’s a chilled-out, relaxed seaside vibe here. It’s Venice... but different! 

While the city’s canals charm you across the lagoon, the Lido has a different vibe. Among the residential streets and sounds of passing vehicles, there’s a distinct atmosphere that’s a world apart from the car-free tourist centre.  

In the off-season, the Lido settles into a comfortable rhythm of everyday life. You could almost forget you’re just moments away from one of the world’s most popular holiday destinations. But as summer arrives in Venice, Lido hotels open for the season, and it transforms into the Veneto region’s top seaside retreat. 

Despite the laid-back beachy feel, the Lido is just minutes from all the action. In fact, it takes just five on the water bus – the Vaporetto – to get to Venice’s historic centre. Stay on the boat a little longer, and you’ll enjoy a tour of the Grand Canal as it snakes its way through the Venetian islands. 

Just so you know, the local government of Venice has introduced a new regulation to ensure the city doesn’t become overcrowded and is enjoyable for those visiting. For a two-week period from 18 April and then every weekend (Fri-Sun) from 2 May – 27 July 2025, entry to the city of Venice between 08:30 and 16:00 is subject to payment of the Venice Access Contribution fee.
 
If you’re staying within the city of Venice and paying the Tourist Tax, you won’t need to pay the access fee, but you’ll need to register for a QR code as proof of your stay. Anyone under the age of 14 is also exempt but may need to show proof of age.
 
To register for your QR code, please follow these steps:

• Head to the official website https://cda.ve.it/en/ and click “Exemptions”
• Select "Go to Exemptions" and then “I am a guest in an accommodation facility located in the municipality of Venice”
• Select “Request exemption”, enter your arrival and departure dates and provide answers to the other questions about your personal information
• In the data entry screen, add the name and address of where you’re staying
• Add names of other guests under “Add holder”
• Once you’ve completed the online form and added all necessary info, you’ll receive your QR code electronically – be sure to keep this safe and accessible on your device so you can show it as and when required