30 Sep Discover Venice: Top 10 Must-Do Activities in the Floating City
So you might be wondering why a rheumatology practice is writing a blog article on Venice, Italy. Well, I love to travel and talk about it with my patients. One of my patients asked me about what we did when I went to Italy so I thought it would be interesting to write about it and to go down memory lane myself. In September 2023 my wife and I traveled to Italy and spent time in Venice, Vicenza, and a couple of towns near Lake Garda. So here you are…
Venice, Italy, renowned for its romantic canals, rich history, and captivating architecture, stands as a timeless marvel that continues to enchant visitors from around the globe. Stepping into this floating city feels like entering a dream—a maze of narrow streets, intricate bridges, and glistening waterways. If you’re planning a trip to Venice, here are the top 10 must-do activities to make the most of your experience.
- Take a Gondola Ride: No visit to Venice is complete without gliding along its iconic canals on a traditional gondola. Let the gondolier navigate through the labyrinth of waterways as you admire the stunning architecture and soak in the city’s romantic ambiance.
- St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco): Marvel at the grandeur of St. Mark’s Square, the heart of Venice. Adorned with the magnificent St. Mark’s Basilica, the Campanile bell tower, and the Doge’s Palace, this bustling square is a true masterpiece of architecture.
- Visit St. Mark’s Basilica: Step inside this breathtaking cathedral, adorned with intricate mosaics, marble columns, and stunning artworks. Climb to the top for a panoramic view of Venice and the surrounding islands.
- Explore the Grand Canal: Embark on a vaporetto ride along the Grand Canal, Venice’s main waterway. Admire the splendid palaces, colorful facades, and bustling activity along the banks of this historic water route.
- Rialto Bridge: Wander across the Rialto Bridge, one of Venice’s most iconic landmarks. Capture panoramic views of the Grand Canal and explore the bustling Rialto Market, where locals have traded for centuries.
- Get Lost in Venice’s Narrow Streets: Embrace the charm of Venice by wandering through its labyrinth of narrow streets and alleys (calli). Discover hidden gems, quaint cafes, and artisan workshops tucked away from the tourist crowds.
- Visit Murano and Burano Islands: Take a boat trip to the nearby islands of Murano and Burano. Murano is famous for its exquisite glass-blowing tradition, while Burano is renowned for its vibrant colored houses and intricate lacework.
- Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale): Step back in time with a visit to the Doge’s Palace, the former residence of the Venetian rulers. Explore its opulent rooms, admire the impressive artwork, and cross the Bridge of Sighs to learn about its haunting history.
- Enjoy Venetian Cuisine: Indulge in authentic Venetian cuisine at local trattorias and osterias. Savor traditional dishes like risotto al nero di seppia (black squid ink risotto), sarde in saor (sweet and sour sardines), and cicchetti (Venetian tapas) paired with a glass of local wine.
- Experience Venetian Culture: Immerse yourself in Venetian culture by attending a classical music concert, visiting the Peggy Guggenheim Collection for modern art, or catching a traditional opera performance at Teatro La Fenice.
In conclusion, Venice offers a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re strolling along its romantic canals, admiring its historic landmarks, or savoring its culinary delights, Venice never fails to captivate and inspire. So, pack your bags, and embark on an unforgettable journey to the floating city.