Venice

Piazza San Marco is Venice's most famous piazza. What appears to be a rectangle is actually a trapezium, and when you look up at the basilica, the piazza seems enormous, although it is only 175 meters long. On both sides of the piazza are the Procuratie, which housed the procurators of San Marco. The centerpiece of the piazza is the Basilica di San MarcoThe oldest of these (probably built by Codussi) are on your left when you face the basilica; Longhena built the ones on the right later, in 1640. The most recent buildings, commissioned by Napoleon in 1810, lie behind.

For a long time this was the only way to cross the Canal Grande. There was a bridge here at the end of the 12th Century, but the current one, designed by Antonio da Ponte, was built 1554-1591. There are now lots of shops on the bridge selling all kinds of souvenirs and curiosities. Fresh fruit, vegetable and fish markets line the streets in the bustling neighborhood. A second bridge was built in 1854, this bridge is still an important historical landmark and always a bright spot for tourists.

This stunning building was built in the Renaissance, but displays traces of successive interventions up until the baroque period. Scuola Grande Arciconfraternita di San Rocco is often used as a concert hall, and is next to the San Rocco Church with which it is often mistaken. It is dedicated to Rocco, who cured the sick during the 14th-century plague. The interior decoration of the school was entrusted to Jacopo Tintoretto, whose works, such as the Allegories, Life and Passion of Christ, and episodes from the Old and New Testaments can be admired. Among the most famous displays are The Annuciation, The Epiphany, and The Flight to Egypt. It is open throughout the year except for a few occasions. However the open hours may vary according to the months, so visit the website for details.

There is a silent and almost respectful ambiance in this museum. Visitors enter Museo Correr by means of a staircase, originally built as a grand entrance to the Napoleonic royal palace. From here, the tour continues through neoclassical rooms, the Royal Palace, the Canoviana Collection, Venetian Civilization, Antique Art, and Renaissance Bronze. There are many sculptures by Canova and decorative objects by Francesco Hayez. Venezia by Jacopo De' Barbari can be admired in the entrance. The hours of operation may vary according to the months. Visit website for details.

This is the oldest cathedral of the laguna, and evidence of the first settlement here. It was built in 639, but has undergone restoration and modification in the 9th, 11th and 14th Centuries. The interior is enriched by splendid decorations, with particularly striking mosaics, which were probably made by mosaic makers from Ravenna. The bell tower, which was built in the 11th Century, can only be visited by appointment. The view that can be enjoyed from the top is well worth the climb.

Some legends say that the Ponte dei Sospiri was called the Bridge of Sighs because it was a rendezvous for lovers; however, the truth tells a much sadder tale. The bridge, in fact was built to convey magistrates to the courts and prisoners to their fates. However, the Baroque bridge, designed by Antonio Contino, still has a very romantic air to it, and remains an important historical landmark in Venice today.

The Palazzo Grassi museum is situated in an imposing palace designed by Massari, right opposite Cà Rezzonico. Formerly a center for arts, the Fiat group had it restored by Gae Aulenti and then transformed it into an exhibition center of international importance. Thus, the venue plays host to a heap of cultural events from time to time. guided tours are available as well. Check website for more details on current and upcoming exhibits.

Located next to the Basilica di San Marco, the Palazzo Ducale has been the symbol of Venice's political life and public administration for hundreds of years. The building has been continuously evolving into its present form since 1340, even though its foundations date back to the early Middle Ages (10th Century). Considered a masterpiece of the Gothic style, it has been destroyed many times, most notably during the fire of 1106. It was rebuilt by Barbarossa in 1177 and modified over the time by the different Dogi reigning in Venice. More than a palace, the Palazzo Ducale is an extensive infrastructure, comprising the apartments of the doge (often used as an exhibition space), the government quarters and the palace of justice. When visiting the palace, many parts are worth the detour. In the Museo dell'Opera, you will see the remaining pieces of the building's medieval façades as well as a collection of sculptures dating from the 14th and 15th Centuries. Before heading towards the Doge's apartments, you will enter the magnificent courtyard. Take some time to walk alongside the Loggias to enjoy the various angles of the Palazzo. In addition to the Institutional Chambers and the Prisons, take some time to see the great collection of weapons and armaments in the Armoury. The hours of operation may vary according to the months, so please visit the website for further details.

This is one of Venice's best restaurants and for good reasons. Saying that the service is excellent is an understatement and the menu features only the freshest and best quality ingredients. The Risotto and the Cod are popular menu selections. The Harry's Bar maintains the same high calibre, and has excellent Martini. The space is somewhat small and cosy, so it is recommended that reservations are made in advance.