This Is Italy
Venice, the historic 'city of water' in northeastern Italy, has a magical attraction for visitors from all over the world. The canals, gondolas, fantastic food and wealth of history make the city a perfect destination for a romantic getaway. We therefore urge you to take the time for your trip to Venice and immerse yourself in the Italian, good life.
Table of contents
1. Grand Canal
The Grand Canal is the main and largest canal of Venice. It is about 3,5 kilometers long and varies in width from 30 to 70 meters. You can see it as the 'main road' of the city and along this canal are the most beautiful palaces and Venetian houses. You move across the canal with the so-called vaporetto, the water bus. Of course you can also take a trip with such a typical gondola, but that is much more fun on the smaller canals of the city.
2. San Marco Square
Piazza San Marco is the touristic heart of Venice and it is located on the Grand Canal. The square is the lowest point of the city, so it is often flooded during the winter months. On this impressive square is the overwhelming San Marco Basilica, which is definitely worth a visit. There are hordes of pigeons in the square, you can even let them eat from your hand if you want.
3. Campanile
The Campanile of Venice is also in Piazza San Marco. It is a brick bell tower over 98 meters high with five bells. You can climb the tower, then after a steep climb you will be rewarded with a great view over the city.
4. Venice Biennale
The Venice Biennale is a biennial, international art event that has been around since 1895. In 2017 there will be a very special work of art, called 'Support'. Lorenzo Quinn made two huge hands emerging from the water to draw attention to climate change and sea level rise. The hands appear to support the facade and can be seen until the end of November 2017.
5. Doge's Palace
The Doge's Palace is also located on San Marco Square. The Doge used to be the leader of the Republic of Venice. This palace is special because it is not religious, but it is built in Gothic style. It was not only the residence of the doge, but also housed the offices of various political institutions and lawyers.
6. Bridge of Sighs
At the back, the Doge's Palace is connected to the prison by the Bridge of Sighs. Convicts used to walk to the dungeons via this bridge and saw the light of day here for the last time.
7. Rialto Bridge
The Rialto Bridge spans the Grand Canal and is the oldest of the four bridges spanning the canal. There are some shops on the bridge and on the northwest side you will find a fresh market where you can buy tasty products.
8. Murano
Murano is an island in the Venetian lagoon that is famous for the original Murano glass. The glassblowers used to work in Venice, but because of the danger of fire in the narrow streets, they had to move to Murano. Nowadays you can buy the most beautiful works of art made of glass in the many workshops.
9. Accademia Gallery
The Gallerie dell'Accademia exhibits works by the great Venetian masters of the 14e to the 18e century. The museum is housed in three buildings along the Grand Canal and the most famous work you can find there is probably the 'Vitruvian Man'.
10. Libreria Acqua Alta
If you like books, you really have to go to the Libreria Acqua Alta when you are in Venice. According to many, it is the most special bookstore in the world. You'll find piles of books here and it's also a haven for cats, who enjoy snoozing on the mountains of literature.
Venice is a beautiful place, but also a tourist attraction. So look for idyllic backstreets to eat and drink. It is also a good idea to visit the city outside the summer months. Then it is a lot quieter and less warm.
Have you ever been there? Then we would like to hear your personal tips for Venice!
Also watch: the most beautiful places in Italy.
Photos: Pixabay
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