DK Travel : Venice

The uniquely romantic city of Venice was built entirely on water and has managed to survive into the 21st century without cars. Narrow alleyways and canals pass between sumptuous palaces and magnificent churches, colourful neighbourhood markets and quiet backwaters, unchanged for centuries. Few cities possess such an awesome line-up of sights for visitors.

For guided tours around Venice (see Guided Tours)

Osteria alla Botte

You have to fight your way through the locals here, attracted by the lively atmosphere and counter overflowing with drinkable local wines and appetizing snacks such as fried sardines in breadcrumbs.
Osteria alla Frasca

Billed as the site where Titian kept his paints and canvases, this tiny picturesque bar serves drinks and snacks on a vine-covered terrace in summer.
Osteria alla Patatina (Al Ponte)

Piping hot wedges of fried potato served on skewers (patatine ) are the mainstay here, though don’t neglect the other tasty morsels, such as delicately battered vegetable strips, to be washed down with some Veneto red or white wines served from bottles or demi-johns.
Osteria Anice Stellato

Book well ahead for this popular place serving fish, meat and a wonderful zabaglione dessert.
Osteria da Codroma

This timber-panelled osteria enjoys a quiet and laid-back atmosphere.
Osteria da Dante (Alle Alpi)

Low-ceilinged wine bar whose tables seem permanently occupied by card-playing men. Traditional counter fare such as bovoleti and garusoli (types of snails) and grilled sardines.
Osteria dei Fabbri

The appetizing menu in this rustic osteria changes daily, so you may get grilled Piedmont cheese with polenta or spare ribs with radicchio .
Osteria del Sacro e Profano

Well worth hunting out near Rialto, this rustic-looking osteria is the haunt of international artists who happily mingle with the locals. Wines from the Veneto and Friuli are served with traditional snacks such as uova con acciughe (hard-boiled egg with anchovy).
Osteria La Perla Ai Bisatei

Home-style cooking at reasonable prices. The fritto misto seafood is superb. Open for lunch only.
Osteria Sora al Ponte

A boisterous establishment run by a market family ensures an entertaining visit. Traditional fare such as bisatei fritti (fried baby eels) and tripe are worth trying with your carafe of wine.

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Restaurant price categories

For a three-course meal for one with half a bottle of wine (or equivalent meal), taxes and extra charges.
- under €30
- €30-€40
- €40-€50
- €50-€60
- over €60