Venice is a city like no other. Take a boat straight from your luxury hotel and drift along historic canals, lined with grand palaces rising straight out of the water. Seek out dazzling art and centuries-old architecture, or lose yourself in artisan craft shops. Rest your tired feet in a buzzing café on San Marco Square, where you can sip a prosecco spritz and watch the world go by. With some of the world's best hotels, Venice is a savvy traveller's paradise.
LANDMARKS
Each twist and turn of Venice’s maze of canals and alleys presents you with another must-see sight. Marvel at the audacious San Marco Basilica, with its diverse architectural styles and fascinating frescos brought back from the medieval crusades. Or stroll across the Rialto Bridge, pausing under an archway to take in the iconic view of gondolas meandering down the Grand Canal.
ART & CULTURE
You could fill a city break in Venice many times over without straying beyond the art galleries. Visit Palazzo Ducale to see Italian Renaissance masterpieces, or the Peggy Guggenheim collection for an astounding collection of 20th century and contemporary art. And then there are the many festivals on offer, from the Venice Biennale and International Film Festival to colourful Carnevale.
SHOPPING
Venice has many options for those seeking a souvenir or two to take home. Head to the glamorous Mercerie district to shop top Italian designers including Gucci and Prada. While away an afternoon browsing the bustling stalls at the Rialto Market. Or you could take a boat over to Murano island to pour over exquisite Venetian glassware in the traditional glass workshops.
Escape the hubbub of the city with a boat trip to the islands. Take in wonderful views back across the lagoon to Venice as you go.