Wandering in the Divine City of Water
Venice is one of the most iconic cities in the entire world. Built entirely in a lagoon, Venezia is a gorgeous city surrounded by fluorescent blue waters. The multitude of canals, bridges and walkways have inspired other cities like Las Vegas and Los Angeles to create replicas of the floating city. Being devoid of roads, the primary mode of transportation is either water taxis or walking. A plethora of Gothic palaces and renaissance architecture makes Venice the perfect city for wandering around. Here’s some of the best things to experience on your next trip to Venice.
10. Bridge of Sighs
Venice is also known as the city of bridges, with one of the most famous being the Bridge of Sighs. It connects to Doge’s Palace so it’s pretty easy to find. Legend has it the name comes from the prisoner’s sighs as they caught their final glimpse of the Venetian city. You can walk across the bridge or gaze upon it from a parallel arch for two unique perspectives.
9. Accademia Gallery of Venice
The Galleire dell’Accademia di Venezia is one of the best art museums with dazzling décor. Not to be confused with the Accademia Gallery in Florence, this exhibition has its own famous masterpieces. The gallery lies right next to the grand canal, so it makes for some excellent shots. If you happen to be there during the first Sunday of the month, the entrance will be free. You can buy the moderately priced tickets online too.
8. Doge’s Palace
Also known as Palazzo Ducale, this marvelous palace is filled with stunning interior design and the largest oil painting in the world. Guided tours through the complex are recommended to expose added insight into the economic and political history of Venice. You can even go on a secret tour which guides you through the jail quarters and prisons. Tickets are a bit expensive, but there’s definitely a lot to see inside.
7. Food in Venice
Like every other Italian city, the food in Venice is outstanding. Some of the seafood has been the best I’ve ever tasted (maybe right under Tokyo). Including the infamous spaghetti al nero di sepia (squid ink pasta), sarde in saor (sweet and sour sardines with onions), and baccala mantecato (creamed cod paste) for a few signature meals. The delectable dessert, tiramisu also has roots from the Veneto region, so this is the best place in the world to try it. Dining in Venice may be expensive, but it’s an experience no foodie should miss.
6. Ponte Rialto
The last bridge to make the list is Ponte Rialto, the oldest bridge across the Grand Canal. Take some time to admire its structural ingenuity. Resting in the heart of Venice, this archway is lined with souvenir shops and offers a fantastic view of the Canal Grande. Follow the signs located on various buildings to find your way to this iconic landmark.
5. Venice Grand Canal
Possibly the most famous sight in Venice, the Grand Canal is the path of major water traffic thru the city of canals. From here you can grab a water taxi or vaporetto to points all across the city. Even on its own, the Canal Grande is a resplendent spectacle that is interesting to see. The water may be gleaming, but don’t try to swim in it.
4. Piazza San Marco
St. Mark’s Square is the primary public square and contains a majority of Venice’s landmarks. A huge open space where you can relax and enjoy some people watching. The plaza is brimming with pigeons that will swarm all over anyone with a speck of food. Piazza San Marco is surrounded by a ton of restaurants and shops which stay open relatively late. Watch out for the guys trying to sell you roses.
3. St. Mark’s Campanile
Right across from the basilica is the tallest building in Venice; Campanile di San Marco. This bell tower soars above the city to 323 ft (98.45 meters). The Campanile is open from 9:45am to 7pm daily, so head up to the top for some magnificent skyline views. Fortunately, there is an elevator to take you to the top and avoid another infinite spiral staircase. You can purchase tickets at the main booth or online.
2. St. Mark’s Basilica
The Basilica di San Marco is the largest and most iconic church in Venice. The Byzantine architecture is renowned across the world and is the city’s major attraction point. Entrance into the basilica is free but there are a few rules to abide by. First, there are no pictures allowed inside the church, the dress code is enforced (no shorts, mini-skirts, sleeveless or short tops), and no bags inside. There’s a free bag check in an adjacent building to the cathedral. The interior design and frescoes are incredible and there is an extra exhibit with a gold-plated sculpture in the back for an extra couple euros.
1. Venice Gondola Ride
I know this may be the most cliche, touristy thing to do in Venice but hear me out. Riding in a gondola is the symbolic representation of Venezia. Did you even go to Venice if you didn’t ride one? Riding thru the canals is an experience that makes you one with the city. You feel immersed in the calmness of the water and witness the city from an entirely different perspective. It makes the perfect romantic atmosphere for a date with your significant other. It’s a bit expensive for only a 30-minute ride, but totally worth it. However, it’s a euphoric experience everyone should try at least once in their lifetime.
Venice is a wondrous city filled with lustrous waters and architecture at every turn. There isn’t an overwhelming amount of things to do, therefore visiting for a few days is enough to get a feel for the city. It definitely has a more relaxed vibe than most Italian cities. Hopefully you can visit the radiant city someday so it can leave a lasting imprint on your own heart. Until then, thanks for reading and keep leveling up!
Check out my travel vlog in Venice! I tried to capture the magnificent city as best I can so I hope you enjoy!
