Here, in the northeastern curve of Italy, lies a legend written in stone and water. Venice is a city densely packed with architectural, artistic, and engineering marvels. Every bit of it is worth the (admittedly high) price of admission. Don?t miss these seven attractions in Venice:
1. Gondola Ride
Expensive? Yes. Touristy? Yes. An inauthentic waste of money? No. Some of the best and truest views of Venice can only be seen from the main streets (i.e. canals). The gondoliers have plenty of information, and make terrific tour guides. Splurge on sunset and night tours, or save a little money by going during the day.
2. Piazza San Marco
St. Mark?s is the grand central Venetian square. The surrounding buildings contain governmental seats, including the Doge?s (ruling Duke?s) palace. Go up the tower of the rebuilt Campanile for a view from the city?s tallest structure.
3. Palazzo Ducale
This structure is an edifice of pink-and-white marble that dates from the 1400s. The palace was the seat of power for the city-state of Venice. A visit to the Palazzo Ducale offers sights of magnificent art and carving, along with an engaging history lesson.
4. Gallerie Dell?Accademia
This gallery holds the world?s largest collection of works by Venetian artists. The objects on display span five centuries, dating from the 1200s to the 1700s, including works by the great painters of the Renaissance (Rinascimento in Italian).
5. Church of La Pieta
The Red Priest, Vivaldi, worked here for nearly 40 years. Candlelight performances of the works of the composer of The Four Seasons and other masterpieces of music can still be heard at the church.
6. Chiesa dei Frari (Church of the Friars)
This Franciscan church was built and first occupied during the 13th-14th centuries. It contains works by Rinascimento masters such as Donatello, Titian, and Bellini.
7. Ponte dei Sospiri (Bridge of Sighs)
This short, covered bridge?s name reveals a shiver-inducing history. Its windows provided a last glimpse of the great city of Venice to convicted prisoners who were being escorted from the interrogation rooms of court to their prison cells.
Venice?s rich history and sights are accessible only by foot or by water conveyances. Walk the beautiful stone bridges. See the beauty of Venice by water bus or gondola. This glittering gem of Italy retains its luster.