Venice, One of The Most Beautiful Cities In The World
Updated
Venice is made up of over 100 islands, all linked together by its unique canal network. As one of the most beautiful cities in the world, Venice won’t disappoint its visitors. Explore Venice’s famous canals, old bridges, stunning palazzos, and great art. Here are some things to do and see in and around Venice:
St Mark’s Square
The crowded St Mark’s Square is probably Venice’s most famous square. Enjoy a coffee in one of the cafes while admiring the beautiful architecture surrounding you. Many of Venice’s main attractions, such as the Campanile and the Clock Tower, can be found close by. Don’t miss the golden altar piece in the impressive St Mark’s Basilica.
Gallerie dell’Accademia
The Accademia Gallery has one of the finest art collections in Europe. The walls are lined with works by Venetian master painters including Bellini, Titian, Veronese, and Tintoretto.
Palazzo Ducale & the Bridge of Sighs
The Palazzo Ducale was the home of the Doges from where they ran the Venetian state. You can see all aspects of the life of the Doge from where he lived to where state matters were discussed and justice dispensed. Walk over the infamous Bridge of Sighs, whose name comes from the time when the bridge led from the court to the prison cells. The prisoners saw the view of the beautiful lagoon and sighed.
Ca’ d’Oro
Ca’ D’Oro (House of Gold) located on the Grand Canal is a beautiful palazzo and a great example of gothic architecture. The Palazzo shows a fine collection of sculptures, tapestries, and paintings.
Santa Maria della Salute
Guarding the entrance to the Grand Canal is Santa Maria della Salute, a Venetian landmark and a magnificent Baroque Church. The sacristy boasts paintings by Titian and Tintoretto’s Marriage at Cana.
San Giorgio Maggiore
The San Giorgio Maggiore church is a well-known Venetian landmark designed by Palladio, the famous renaissance architect. Inside, you will find several of Tintoretto’s paintings including “The Last Supper”.
Canals
It’s impossible to think of Venice without thinking of canals and Gondolas. Cars are not allowed in the city and all transportation is on water. Travel like a true Venetian: hop on a Vaporati (water bus) and travel along the Grand Canal. It will take you under the Rialto Bridge and is a perfect way to admire the beautiful palaces lining the Canal.
Rialto Markets
The lively Rialto Markets are open every morning. Fruit, vegetables, souvenirs, and clothing are on offer. The Fish market has been held here for 1000 years – don’t miss the live lobsters and crabs.
Scuola Grande di San Rocco
The Scuola Grande di San Rocco is one of Venice’s finest art museums with an impressive collection of more than 50 of Tintoretto’s works.
Peggy Guggenheim Collection
The Venier dei Leoni Palace was home to American collector Peggy Guggenheim for 30 years. Now it is a museum with an impressive collection of modern art. Artists represented include Magritte, Picasso, Pollock, and Kandinsky.
The Lido
20 minutes by waterbus from Venice
The Lido is a long strip of sand sheltering Venice’s lagoon from the sea. The island’s sandy beaches make it a popular day trip destination for families and sun worshippers.
Verona
80 minutes by train from Venice
The charming city of Verona has plenty to offer its visitors including Roman monuments, impressive architecture, and delightful restaurants. Make sure you don’t miss the Roman Arena where an open-air opera festival takes place every year.
