- Venecian gondoliers rest between tours alongside the city's grand canal.
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Venice, Italy (Venezia in Italian) is one of the most interesting and lovely places in the world. This sanctuary on a lagoon is virtually the same as it was 500 years ago, though it has certainly begun to decay since its heyday. Tourists slightly outnumber residents, but the city's romantic charm remains.
Venice is made up of different parts. The most famous is the area comprising the 118 islands in the main districts of Cannaregio, Castello, Dorsoduro, Isola Della Giudecca, San Polo, San Croce, San Marco and Lido di Venezia where the main monuments and sights are located.
The Most Serene Republic of Venice dates back to 827, when a Byzantine dukedom moved its seat to what is now known as the Rialto, and for the following 970 years prospered on trade and under the rule of a Roman-style Senate headed by the Doge. In 1797 the city was conquered by Napoleon, a blow from which the city never recovered.
The summer may be the worst time to visit: It's sometimes very hot, the canals sometimes stink (in the most literal sense), there are occasional infestations of flies and there are more tourists than usual. Spring and fall are probably best. Ride a Vaporetto (water bus) down the Grand Canal right before sunset. The Vaporettos are inexpensive, but the sites are priceless: amazing architecture, soft seaside sunlight, and a fascinating parade of Venetian watercraft. Or shop. Venice is packed full of little stores in every corner and crevice. The most common local specialties are Carnival masks, glass and marbled paper.
Destination Facts
- Population: 270,816
- Time Zone: +1 GMT (Central European Time)
- Languages: English
- Currency: EUR
- Airports
- Venezia Tessera (VCE) [Main]
City Guide
Feature Article
Feature
Venice: Italian Magic on the Adriatic
Venice, Italy December 27, 2007 by Barbara Radcliffe RogersBridges, canals and gondolas are icons in Venice, the city on the water, where travelers lose themselves in art, history and romantic streets and squares.
Articles on Venice
Feature
10 Ways for Your Kids to Interact With Italy
by Suzzanne Lacey June 13, 2008Keep your kids active, engaged and begging to go back to Italy with these 10 ways for the entire family to experience the country.
Feature
Unmask the Mask Makers of Venice
by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers December 27, 2007Kids of all ages will enjoy visits to shops in San Polo and Dorsoduro to watch craftsmen create elegant Carnival masks.
Feature
Venice: Italian Magic on the Adriatic
by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers December 27, 2007Bridges, canals and gondolas are icons in Venice, the city on the water, where travelers lose themselves in art, history and romantic streets and squares.
Feature
Lose Yourself in the Garden Maze of Villa Pisani
by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers December 27, 2007Il Labirinto, The Maze, is only part of the gardens that stretch splendidly behind the grand façade that Villa Pisani turns toward the Brenta Canal.
- Counting the Lions of Venice
- Amuse the kids and teach a little history while looking for Venice's many stone lions. »
