The historic city of Venice, located in the north-eastern region of Italy, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe, if not the world. Its popularity, as most people know, is owed mostly to the city being made up of many small islands (118 to be exact) separated by canals and bridges.
Apart from its geographical foundations, Venice is also known for its historical artistic movements, most notably, the renaissance period. There are countless museums scattered around the city which house numerous collections of art dating back to the 13th century.
Being home to many cultural and historical sights, Venice has so much to offer that deVere Italia has decided to highlight five of its standout attractions to get you started.
1. Take a ride on a Gondola
With endless canals running through the city, there’s no better way of taking in the sights than a ride in a traditional venetian rowing boat, or as they are more commonly known, a Gondola. With over 170 canals, visitors can take a relaxing Gondola ride through the city, drifting through its calm waters while being engulfed by the baroque buildings on either side.
Prices can very between each Gondolier, however the average price is around 80 euros for 40 minutes. This isn’t to say that all will charge you that much, but the price can change quite drastically depending on demand. However, prices at night are usually over the 100 euros mark. Our best advice would be to book in advance with a tour operator. Either way, you’re in for a unique and captivating experience.
2. St Mark’s Square (Palazzo San Marco)
St Mark’s Square, or ‘Piazza San Marco’ as it is referred to in Italian, is the principal square in Venice. With many of city’s attractions situated in or around the square, this is probably your best place to start. Here, one can find St Marks Basilica, Doge’s Palace, and the National Library of St Mark's among other popular tourist attractions.
On the southern side of the square lies the Piazzetta di San Marco which is another open space that connects St Mark’s square to the grand canal.
Should you feel the need to rest after a long day of sightseeing, there are several cafés situated around the square that operate during the day and night.
3. St Marks’s Basilica (Basilica di San Marco)
Whether you’re religious, into gothic architecture or fascinated by historical buildings, St Mark’s Basilica is a must see. As mentioned earlier, it stands at the eastern end of St Mark’s Square and is always popular with Venice’s tourists.
Originally built in 9th century to house religious relics, but it burned down after an uprising and then rebuilt and consecrated in 1094. The Basilica was used as the dodge’s private chapel until 1807, when it became the city’s cathedral.
Its bell tower, the Campanile, stands alone in the square, making it a prominent landmark.
The queues to get into the Basilica can be quite long, but can easily be avoided by joining a tour.
4. Doge Palace (Palazzo Ducale)
Venice’s second most iconic building stands right next to the Basilica, with the oldest part of the Palace facing the grand canal. Once the official residence of the Doge of Venice (hence the name), it now operates as a full-time museum.
While its grand exterior is an experience in itself, the interior is equally as breath-taking. Housing collections of art by renowned Venetian artists including, but not limited to Bellini, Carpaccio, Veronese, it really is a must see!
Its infamous prison lies adjacent to the palace, connected by the Bridge of Sighs. The prison can only be accessed by organised tours.
5. National Library of St Mark's (Biblioteca Marciana)
The building itself dates back to 1550s and was designed by Jacopo Sansovino. While its exterior follows renaissance architecture, its interior is filled with frescoes and portraits
This remarkable venetian library lies to the west of the Doge’s Palace, adjacent to the Grand Canal. The national library is home to over a million printed books as well as numerous historical manuscripts and texts, with some dating as far back as the 16th century.
If you are considering moving to Venice, contact deVere Italia today for expert financial advice.