For families planning a summer getaway, the historic canals and crowded piazzas of Venice might not spring to mind as the ideal destination. Yet, a revolutionary approach to Italian holidays is changing that perception entirely, transforming the floating city into a surprisingly perfect family retreat.
A Resort in Itself: The All-Inclusive Campsite Experience
The secret lies with holiday firm Eurocamp and its partnership with Union Lido, a sprawling beach resort on the Cavallino-Treporti peninsula, just across the lagoon from Venice. Founded in 1955, this 60-hectare site holds the distinguished title of Italy's first five-star campsite. It operates like a gated town, complete with its own infrastructure, eliminating the stress often associated with city breaks with children.
The resort's amenities are staggering. Guests have access to two massive water parks featuring eleven waterslides, wave pools, lazy rivers, and children's spraygrounds. For relaxation, a fully-equipped spa boasts an indoor/outdoor infinity pool with panoramic lagoon views. The site supports daily life with two dozen shops, including supermarkets, and a dozen cafes, bars, and restaurants. An outdoor theatre and multiple activity spaces provide nightly entertainment, from live music to tribute acts and beach parties.
Accommodation, provided by Eurocamp, typically includes modern, clean lodges with air conditioning, a lounge-kitchen-diner, multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, and a private outdoor area. As one visitor noted, family meals al fresco, followed by cards and drinks as the sun sets, become cherished holiday memories.
Venice on Your Doorstep: Effortless Cultural Exploration
While the resort could easily consume an entire holiday, its prime location makes exploring Venice remarkably straightforward. From the main entrance, a bus shuttles guests to Punta Sabbioni, where a ferry departs directly for St Mark's Square. The journey from resort to the heart of Venice takes about 30 minutes by boat.
Recent changes in Venice, including a tourist tax and a ban on large cruise ships, have made the city more manageable. Visitors in August 2025 reported surprisingly quiet streets compared to previous years. The key for families is to wander beyond the main tourist drags like the Rialto Bridge to discover authentic trattorias and a calmer atmosphere.
For a taste of the gondola experience without the hefty price tag, the traghetto service offers a functional crossing of the Grand Canal for just a few Euros per person. The vaporetto (water bus) network is also an excellent way to visit the colourful island of Burano or the glassmaking workshops of Murano.
Beyond Venice: Jesolo, Beaches, and Local Gems
The region offers more than just the iconic city. A bus ride in the opposite direction leads to Jesolo, a favourite Italian seaside resort known for its miles of golden beaches and Europe's longest shopping street. The town is famous for its impressive sand sculpture trail and family attractions like the Tropicarium, an extensive indoor zoo and aquarium housing over 400 species.
Back at Union Lido, hiring bikes is a popular way to explore the surrounding peninsula, rich with wildlife, green spaces, and traditional markets. The resort's own private sandy beach offers watersports and pedalo hire, providing ample space for sunbathing and games away from the pools.
Practicalities are well-considered. While on-site prices are reasonable, budget-conscious families can visit discount supermarkets nearby via bus or car. Bike hire is also slightly cheaper from a store opposite the main entrance.
In essence, a Eurocamp holiday at Union Lido redefines a Venetian city break. It combines the luxury and activity of a five-star resort with the cultural riches of one of the world's great cities, all packaged for family comfort and convenience. It proves that with the right base, even the most historic destinations can become the setting for an unforgettable family adventure.
Price examples for Union Lido via Eurocamp: A seven-night stay in a Comfort three-bedroom home sleeping six during May half-term 2026 starts from £1,725.71. In peak summer (late July 2026), a Comfort two-bedroom home for four starts from £2,522.24. The nearest airport is Venice Marco Polo, 42.6km away.
