Spectacular cradle of civilisation
Nothing is more romantic than meandering down Venice's Grand Canal on a gondola ride as you take in its Renaissance and Gothic palaces. A visit to the central square Piazza San Marco and St. Mark's Basilica is a must. Be sure to get lost in the myriad of back streets in this lively Italian city, where you'll find busy bacaro bars and artisanal shops galore.
Whilst you are in Venice, make the most of your stay and check out our top 3 things to do and see!
St. Mark's Basilica
Easily the most famous building in Venice, St. Mark's Basilica is a sublime piece of architecture and remains one of the most important religious buildings in Northern Italy since it was built in 1092. Located in the Piazza San Marco, this basilica is easily accessible from the grand canal and is one of the best-known surviving examples of Italian Byzantine architecture.
Canale Grande
This monumental canal is more like a river and it passes from one side of Venice to the other, snaking through the centre in a large S bend shape. It served as an important waterway in the city for hundreds of years and has over 170 buildings lining its banks, dating from as early as the 13th century. Plan a day walking along sections of the canal, admiring the historic buildings that line it, and experiencing the bustling water traffic of Venice.
Burano Island
A technicolour island filled with homes painted in every colour of the rainbow, so that returning fishermen can find their way home in the fog. Check out local restaurants serving fresh seafood and pasta like the Trattoria Al Gatto Nero (just look for the bright blue building) or stroll past the peaceful 13th century church of Santa Caterina.
The city hosts the traditional Carnival of Venice every February, where more than three million people dress up in masquerade costumes and dance until dawn.
There are estimated to be 350 gondolas on Venice's waterways, which include 177 canals.
Venetian folklore states that if a couple in a gondola kiss as they pass underneath each bridge, they will remain in love forever.
Why not give Venice a try and book now with Ryanair.