Better than a gondola
by ccmoira
Gondola rides are disappointingly expensive - prohibitively expensive.
But I was lucky enough to meet two great Venetian men who took me on a ride in their boat. It was smaller than a gondola but they had to row in the same way, standing up.
They took me through the canals and it was very different than just walking around.
It helped that these two men were some of the nicest Italians I had ever met!
Lovely buildings along the canals
by sachara
Especially along the Canal Grande are the most beautiful buildings and palazzo's. The best thing to do for having a good look at all those palazzos is to take the vaporetto.
But I also liked to sit along the Canal Grande and have a look at the palazzos from there, including all the boats passing by.
The terrace of the Peggy Guggenheim museum in Dorsoduro from where I took this picture, is such a nice place to sit and look to the nice surroundings.
St Marcos Church
by CandS
We visited St Marcos Church while we were in Venice...it looked like there was lots of gold on the church...it is a very beautiful building...
The St Marcos Church was founded during the 9th century...but was changed a few times after that...the final version was finished in 1071.
Enigmatic and Hip
by giampiero6
Venice is an enchanted historical jewel full of an incredibly rich history. It also reigned as a powerful and forward thinking merchant empire, full of commercial and entrepreneurial innovations. That spirit is still alive in Venice in it's cultural outlook. Venice is not just a museum of antiques. It houses the Biennale which is one of the most prestigious interntional contemporary art shows in the world, the Venice Film Festival, and tons of modern music and art exhibits.
I have no idea what the hell the picture means, but it sure points to the fact that Venice is not some staid, museum of the past!
Mosquito attack!!
by beesaj
What you pack is what you carry as there is no one to carry it for you, and it can quite a walk from the Vaporetto to you hotel. If you are bringing heavy bags make sure with wheels ;) Summer- shorts, skirts, shorts sleeves. No jacket needed. Make sure to bring shorts or skirts that go below the knees and wear a shirt that covers your shoulders or you won't be able to enter any of the churches. Sandals(comfy of course) are best. Any heels can kill your feet after the first hour and unbalance you on the Vaporettos. Bring your own Shampoo, Conditioner, Soap, Lotion, razors and shower shoes. I did not see any convience stores.
As the sun goes down the MOSQUITO rule. So I would defently bring a bug repelant. I wish I was forwarned as I was mosquito bait and have a million bites. Benedryl Itch stopping cream is wonderful! A Camera with Zoom capability is a must. Bring a good bug repellent. Mosquitos rule Venice when the sun starts setting and well into the night as the nights are warm too. This tip is for summer months.