Venice

Overview

Venice is a waterborne city in north-eastern Italy, famous worldwide for its canals, bridges and distinctive architecture, and known as the city of water.

History

Venice was founded in the 5th century by northern Italians fleeing Germanic invasions into the lagoon. The Republic of Venice was established in 697 and became the most important trading empire in the Mediterranean between the 13th and 16th centuries. The palaces along the Grand Canal were built over several hundred years, displaying Byzantine, Gothic and Renaissance styles. It became a World Heritage Site in 1987 and today faces serious challenges from overtourism and rising water.

Highlights

• •A romantic gondola ride on the Grand Canal
• •The glittering golden interior of St Mark's Basilica
• •The 15th-century Gothic Doge's Palace
• •The bustle of the Rialto market and bridge
• •The elaborate mask culture of the Venice Carnival

Practical tips

• •Avoid the peak months of July and August
• •A gondola ride is most beautiful in the early evening

Practical information

Best time

April to June, September to October

Tickets

St Mark's Square free; some areas charge during Carnival

Opening hours

Open all day; churches and museums roughly 9:00 to 17:00

Local food

Cuttlefish ink pasta, seafood risotto and tiramisu

Getting around

Water buses and walking are the main ways around; a multi-day transport pass is useful and high tide should be checked

Visa

Italy is in the Schengen area and requires a short-stay Schengen visa. Appointments are tight in peak season for Rome, Venice and other popular cities.

…