Venice City Guide

Submitted By: Marion Leming

Venice is made up of over 100 islands, all linked together by Venice's 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. What 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 cafés while admiring the beautiful architecture surrounding you. Lots 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 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 architecture. 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 the 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 evey 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 the home of American collector Peggy Guggenheim for 30 years. Now it is a museum with a most 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 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.

About the Author:

This article was written by Marion Leming who is the PR and Marketing Manager for weekend city breaks company Railbookers.