Things to do in Venice, Italy

• When deciding what to do and what to see during your trip to Venice, keep in mind that the single most fun thing to do in Venice is not necessarily to plan it all, but simply to walk around and get lost in the many calles (alleys) and campos (squares). Not everyone knows that Venice is built on three hundred and seventeen small islands, and holds one hundred and fifty canals, connected by an amazing four hundred and nine bridges, of which only three cross the main canal. The area it covers is a mere 458 kilometres (284,59 miles). Although the city appears small, it is really quite extensive for its size. While most tour guides never recommend getting lost in a city, a Venice guide stands out as an exception: Venice is the perfect place to get hopelessly lost for a day. 

• Venice Gondola rides and Serenate; One of the true symbols of Venice, recognised worldwide, is the Gondola. A must when in Venice is to hire an authentic gondola and sit back and relax, as your gondolier navigates the beautiful canals of Venice. As you glide along listen to the soothing sounds of a serenade just for you.

• Murano, Burano and Torcello tour: Always tops in a list of things to do when in Venice is exploring the famous islands of Murano, known for its glass blowing; Burano, famous for its handicrafts; admiring picturesque fishermen's houses, painted in lovely pastel colours; and seeing Torcello and visiting the first Cathedral in Venice.

• Cannaregio and the Jewish Ghetto: Enjoy a walk and discover the peaceful residential district of Cannaregio and visit the Jewish Ghetto.

• The Grand Canal in a private water taxi: In a city built on water, the best thing to do to, appreciate its beauty and uniqueness, is to catch a water taxi and admire the Grand Canal and minor canals of Venice. Ask the driver to go under the Rialto Bridge and the Bridge of Sighs so you may take a romantic picture.

• Visit to the minor (but not less important) islands: Catch a boat and visit the islands of San Giorgio and enjoy the splendour of the Basilica of San Giorgio Maggiore, situated directly opposite the Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale). Spend a day on the Lido and enjoy a walk on the beach. During the summer you can even rent a “capanna” (a hut) for a day on one of the many private beaches. Ideal for fans of Golf, the Lido boasts the only golf-course in Venice. Also, the Lido is the only island that allows cars and motorbikes on its roads, so it is ideal for bikers, who can rent bicycles near the main water-bus station coming from central Venice. During the first week of September the Lido hosts the famous Venetian film festival. Another thing to do is walk around the Giudecca island, and see how local people live. One of the main attractions of the Giudecca is Palladio's Redentore church, built in 1577 to celebrate the salvation of the city after a terrible plague. The Redentore festival that celebrates the end of the plague every third Saturday in July is one of Venice's most popular festivals. The Island is also home to “Harry's Dolce”, where from a terrace table you can enjoy fine views of the city and the finest cuisine to be found in Venice. The last, but by no means least thing to do in Venice is spending a relaxing day on S. Erasmo, a small idyllic island with a well maintained beach.

• Museums and Churches: Venice is full of museums and churches, so it is impossible to list them all. The recommended ones are the following: St. Mark's Basilica; the Doge’s Palace and Secret Itinerary; St. Mark's Bell Tower (see the view below); the Marciana National Library; the Museo Correr; the Archaelogical Museum; the Peggy Guggenheim villa; the Accademia Gallery; the Salute Church; the Frari Church; the Miracoli Church; the San Zaccaria Church, and many others.