Exploring Venice!

Piazza San Marco – St. Mark’s Basilica & Doge’s Palace

This iconic public square is the pulse of Venice, dominated by St. Mark’s Basilica, featuring a beautiful façade of marble, arches and Romanesque carvings. Sitting atop the basilica are four horses, seemingly presiding over the whole piazza. Don’t miss the chance to climb to the top of St. Mark’s, walk out under the horses and take in one of Italy’s more captivating views, including St. Mark’s Clocktower, completed in 1499. Doge’s Palace, just steps from St. Mark’s, its oldest wing overlooking the lagoon, is one of the most stunning palaces in Italy. This veritable museum showcases the grandeur, nature and glory of the Republic of Venice.

Bridge of Sighs

This enclosed bridge, passing over the Rio di Palazzo, is made of white limestone and features windows with stone bars. It is said this was the last view Venice prisoners saw as they were walked from Prigiona Nuove (the new prison) to interrogation rooms in the Doge’s Palace. You can feel the history as you walk through it.

Rialto Markets

Spend a couple hours or an afternoon shopping the open-air fresh markets near the infamous Rialto Bridge. Cured meats, cheeses, breads, fruits and veggies are readily available, so be sure to try them! Stop by Venice’s renowned Pescaria (fish market) where you’ll see tons of fish and seafood that make up an important part of local cuisine. Rialto is also a great place to pick up souvenirs.

Motorboat tour of the Grand Canal

Take in the sights and sounds of this surreal city on a luxury motorboat tour. You’ll marvel at the beauty of the Grand Canal. Enjoy riding past famous sites like Doge’s Palace, traveling under the Rialto Bridge, with a guide narrating along the way.

The Island and Basilica of San Giorgio Maggiore

This is where those postcard photos of Venice are taken! Admire the inside of the stunning basilica. Once you’ve had your fill, climb the bell tower (or take the elevator) to soak in the incredible view of Venice stretching out before you.

Gondola Tour

Of course, you can’t leave Venice without a gondola ride, which ranks among the most dreamed-about experiences for travelers, and no wonder. Gliding through the smaller, enchanting canals, under historic bridges, in one of these elegant Venetian boats is a step back in time. Offering you the opportunity to see the city from a very unique perspective. Sit back, enjoy the serenading of your guide and get lost in the tradition of Venezia!

• Café Florian: Founded over 300 years ago in 1720, this is Italy’s oldest café and coffeehouse, located in Piazza San Marco. Enjoy a sumptuous breakfast or stop in for cakes, parfaits or a savory snack throughout the afternoon. Also serving afternoon tea, chocolate, wine and cocktails.

• Ristorante Campo Santa Maria Formosa: Amazing, authentic Venetian cuisine with locally sourced ingredients and seafood. Very stylish with indoor and outdoor seating. Great place for late lunch or dinner.

• I’ Bacaro De’ Bischeri: Located close to the Rialto Bridge and known for its huge Italian sandwiches, one easily satisfying two people. Filled with locally cured meats and veggies on freshly baked breads, you’ll love this café for a quick bite for lunch that is extremely affordable. They also have beer and wine to go.

• Ristorante Lineadombra: Fine dining with the best view ever. Lineadombra features a floating terrace, so you are literally dining on the lagoon with fantastic views of the churches of Redentore and San Giorgio. There is also indoor dining. Great seafood dishes, which is their specialty, and desserts. Wonderful place to enjoy the sunset and an aperitif or try a glass of wine. Lineadombra boasts a huge wine selection.