Venice, the “City of Canals,” “The Floating City,” or “Serenissima,” is located on the Italian lagoon and attracts people from all over the world. Historically, the Venetian Republic gained power and prosperity due to its strategic location along the Adriatic Sea between the Middle East and Europe, which provided control of key trade routes between the east and the west. The eastern influence is clear when you look at the architecture of the beautiful palazzi along the canals. In the heart of the city is the wonderful Saint Mark’s Basilica, with its stunning domes and wonderful mosaics. It’s easy to get lost walking the small and winding alleyways of Venice, but that is the best way to explore the city! Pay attention to the signs that say “a San Marco” (“to Saint Mark’s Square”) as they will always lead you back to a central meeting point. Sit down and sip a cappuccino or Aperol spritz at the famous Café Florian, the oldest café in Italy. There is also live music in the square every day.

What could you do in your free time?

Walk to the Rialto Bridge, an iconic landmark of the city and the oldest bridge over the Grand Canal. This stone bridge has shops on both sides and provides crossing to the Rialto Market, a daily market where you can purchase fresh produce.

The Church of San Zaccaria (free entrance) is home to the altar piece of Madonna and Saints by Giovanni Bellini. Here, you can also descend into the flooded crypt (€ 3 per person) where several Venetian doges (local leaders) are buried. The church is open from 10:00 AM–6:00 PM.

Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo is well-known for its spiral staircase. The word “bovolo” means “snail shell” in Venetian dialect. The venue also offers a stunning view over St. Mark’s and the Venetian rooftops. Tickets cost €9 or €7 (65+ years old) per person.

La Fenice is one of the most famous opera houses in the world. It has burned down several times throughout history but has always been rebuilt, which is why it is called La Fenice, “The Phoenix.” Tickets cost €12 or €9 (65+ years old) per person.

Shop for Venetian souvenirs, such as Murano glass, Venetian carnival masks, leather products, bags, Burano lace, or handmade paper and notebooks.

Experience Venetian cuisine by trying risotto al Nero di Seppia (squid ink risotto), spaghetti alle vongole (with clams from the lagoon), Sarde in Saor (sweet and sour marinated sardines with raisins, pine nuts, vinegar and onions), or cicchetti (small slices of bread with toppings like fish, olives, dried ham, artichokes).