“To build a city where it is impossible to build a city is madness in itself, but to build there one of the most elegant and grandest of cities is the madness of genius.”
– Alexander Herzen
Made up of over 100 islands, 177 canals, 400 bridges, 0 roads – there truly is no where else in the world quite like Venice.
I was thrilled to have been offered the chance to visit this high-ranking bucket list destination a few years ago and thought it was about time that I put my many photographs and happy memories out there for someone other than myself to enjoy – and perhaps even make some use of when it comes to planning their own trip!
Piazza San Marco
Also known as St Mark’s Square, Piazza San Marco is a great base to kick off your exploration of Venice, being so central in terms of location and boasting many impressive sight-seeing spots in one place too.
The expansive stone-paved square is always bustling with people, pigeons and music from the cafes that line along each side of the square.
Here you will find yourself among some of the most prime tourist attractions, including Basilica Di San Marco, Doge’s Palace and St Mark’s campanile. The Bridge of Sighs is also just a stones throw away.
The Gondola Ride
Expensive? Yes. But let’s be real – when else will you get a chance to do this?! I’ve never been so content parting ways with my remaining Euros for 30 minutes of pure indulgence!
Cemetery Island (Isola di San Michele)
Isola di San Michele is a ‘must see’ when coming to Venice.
Accessible only by boat, this island houses Catholic, Greek Orthodox and Protestant cemeteries, each beautiful and touching in their own way.
I’m someone who believes that the lives of the deceased should be celebrated, which is why I was so fascinated with the way that families kept the memories of their loved ones alive at this stunning location.
*TIP*
Wear/ bring mosquito repellent! Having a mini panic attack every time you see a cute little lizard run past you in the corner of your eye is one thing, but being eaten alive by mosquitos is quite another.
Fruit and Veg Market Boat
I adore stumbling upon unfamiliar (and very entertaining) sights like this! The street next to San Barnaba church is home to the famous market boat, loaded with fruits and vegetables. Would this not make your weekly shop that much more fun?!
Rialto Market & Pescheria
Wander over to the San Polo neighbourhood if you’re just as much of a sucker for a market as me!
The sights, smells (good and bad!) and sounds are thrilling to experience, whether you want to walk away with the vendor’s catch of the day or not!
The Hotel
If you’re looking for somewhere central to stay in Venice, then I would recommend Hotel Ala. It’s just a short walk from the Grand Canal (within easy reach of the airport!) and is a 5 or so minute stroll from St Mark’s Square.
Aside from having a very good breakfast, clean rooms and friendly staff, the hotel has a charming rooftop terrace where you can put your feet up and watch the gondolas go by…
Travel Pass
I would highly recommend purchasing a vaporetto (waterbus) pass for the duration of your stay as it will make travelling about Venice that much more streamlined.
The waterbus is probably the most convenient and affordable way to get about the various islands, albeit a little slow (or should I say leisurely!).
As long as you’re not in a rush, it makes for a great way to see the city from the water – there’s noting quite like it when it comes to public transport!
The Architecture
It has to be said that Venice offers some of the most unique and fascinating architecture that I have ever seen. The windows are charming, the courtyards are romantic and with every turn you find yourself becoming lost in a Venice that is not entirely tourist-ridden.
I love the moments that remind you that ordinary people do actually live here …. imagine Venice being your home?!
The Spirit of Venice
The city is beyond breathtakingly beautiful (even when crawling with selfie-stick wielding tourists).
It has an energy and a spirit that captivates you, and even now as I am writing this long after I have returned home, I feel warm and fuzzy looking back at photos and reliving the memories my head.
I’ve chosen some of my favourite photographs that I think best capture the spirit of Venice – from the people who live there, to the architecture that is so unmistakably Venetian.
Until next time…
Ciao! x
