Day One – The Highlights

St. Mark’s Square

The best place to start your tour is standing in the centre of the Piazza San Marco or St. Mark’s Square. Arrive here as early as you can bear. There is something truly magical about being here as the sun rises on the square. You’ll see the beautiful rose-gold sunlight begin to kiss the cobblestone and bricks around you. The sun seems to bring the square to life as cafe owners begin taking out their chairs and pigeons flock around gawking tourists (but don’t feed them, this is now illegal in Venice!)

Standing in the centre of the square, in front of the Basilica, you can turn around 360 degrees and see one spectacular scene on top of another. In this one small area, you’ll find the St Mark’s Basilica, the great Campanile (Belltower), the Procuratie, the Piazzetta, Doge’s Palace, Bridge of Sighs and Torre dell’ Orologio. There is rarely a time when you’ll visit the square when they aren’t some form of construction or renovation going on. With all these historic sights in one place, there is bound to be something falling apart and needing repair. Try to look past that and don’t like it ruin your experience.

Saint Mark

The square is named after the patron saint of Venice, Saint Mark. In 828, a relic of St. Mark was stolen from Alexandria and brought back to Venice by La Serenissima‘s great naval fleet. The Venetian Doge, awed by the acquisition of this precious relic, adopted Saint Mark as the new patron of Venice (whose honour had previously been given to Saint Theodore).

A city with a saintly relic immediately rose in power and prestige. Relics were the first tourist attraction of the medieval world. Pilgrims would come from all over the world to pray at the churches who preserved these relics. Pilgrims, much as tourists today, needed food and shelter and therefore brought lots of money into the city.

Piazza San Marco

A grand church to house the precious artifact began to be built in 836. The church and the nearby Doge’s palace were, even back then, the highlight of the city for visitors. And a great square was needed to further showcase the opulence the Doge wanted to project. In 1172 orchards were demolished surrounding this area and the Piazza San Marco was built. It’s been rumoured that upon visiting St. Mark’s square for the first time, Napoleon himself degreed that it was, “the drawing room of Europe“.

The Procuratie

The simplistic and yet elegant buildings along the north and south sides of the square are called the Procuratie. The Procuratie is most identifiable by its stunning arcade that wraps around this side of the square. The arcade features Byzantine arches, which are distinct for their tall and narrow structure.

The Procuratie buildings are actually three connected structures that once served as the offices of the Venetian Republic, also called La Serenissima. Today they house the Correr Museum, the Museum of the Risorgimento, and the Archeological Museum. Each one of these is an incredible place to visit but the Correr Museum is my favourite with their collection of art detailing the histories of the city of Venice.

The Lion of Venice

Throughout St. Mark’s square you’ll see various Lions of Venice, adorning doorways, columns and facades. The Lion of Venice is usually seen with his paw upon a bible as he is not just any lion, but St. Mark’s Lion. St. Mark was often referred to as a lion since he would preach the word of the lord so powerfully it almost seemed like a roar. Legend tells that St. Mark was travelling through Europe when he arrived in Venice and an angel spoke to him and told him that this place would be where his body would come to rest for eternity. His remains were originally interred in Alexandra but moved to Venice where the church was built to honour them.

Caffe Florian

Now housed inside one of the old Procuratie buildings is perhaps the most sumptuous cafes in Venice, or perhaps Europe itself. Although this cafe is by no means cheap, it’s a splurge that I think is worth it for the incredible interiors and history to be found within. The Caffe Florian was founded in 1720 and has served patrons like Charles Dickens and Lord Byron. There is a 6 euro cover charge to even enter the cafe, but along with getting to enjoy the lavish interiors, you’ll also be treated to a live orchestra which plays throughout the cafe. Palacial red velvet couches and chairs are spread out across the huge cafe, dotted throughout various antechambers. Each room is covered in ornate paintings, large Murano glass mirrors, gold foiled frames and intricate painting plastered to the ceiling.

To save a bit of money here, go right to the bar and order your food or drinks there. Although you won’t get a seat, the bar menu is vastly cheaper than the table service. An espresso at the bar will run you €5 but again, you’re here for the atmosphere. If you’d rather save your coin you can give this a miss for sure. Instead grab a coffee on your way in towards St. Mark’s square from any local cafe, to enjoy while you peruse the sights.

The Campanile

Standing guard in the centre of the square is the 323ft tall Campanile or Belltower. The low-level buildings throughout Venice are in stark contrast to the towering Campanile. Its little head pokes out at you no matter where you seem to end up in Venice. While the original tower was built in 1514, the current one is a reconstruction from 1912 after it’s collapse in 1902. It’s an incredible thing to imagine that such a tall structure could survive for so long-standing atop the shifting waters. But it wasn’t water which proved to be the biggest enemy of the tower, it was lighting. Lightning struck the tower multiple times over the years causing enormous fires and severe internal damage to the structure.

The tall base of the tower is designed with a fluted shaft that reaches up towards the belfry. Along one corner, one each side of the tower, are stacked arched windows looking out over the square. Inside the belfry are five large bells. Each one was used to call the people of Venice to attention. The bells have their own distinctive name and special significance. The Renghiera bell announced executions; the Mezza Terza would declare that a session of the Senate was taking place; the Nona sounded the midday hour; the Trottiera was used to assemble the Maggiore Consiglio and the Marangona, the largest of the bells, rang to mark the beginning and end of the working day.  

The Tower’s Crown

Above the arches of the belfry is another level of brickwork decorated with various sculptures on either side. On one side you’ll see the Lion of St. Mark and on the other the female representation of Venice, in the shape of the lady Justice. The golden weathervane which crowns the tower is the angel Gabriel, reaching out towards the citizens below.

Torre Dell’Orologio

Turn to the north-east corner of the square, and look up at the bright blue and gold details decorating the Torre Dell’Orologio. The morning light, the sunlight simply glints off the golden dial. The clock was built in the 15th century when mechanical clocks were a symbol of wealth and power. The clock faces out towards the water so that any foreign ships would be able to see it from the canals as they past through.

Atop the tower containing the clock, you can see two small bronze figures who carry large hammers in their hand which move upon the hour to strike the bell. One of the figures is a young man and the other an old man to symbolize the passage of time. Once more we see the image of the Lion of Venice above the clock, set against a blue sky of golden stars. Below the lion is the figure of the Virgin Mary with the baby Jesus wrapped in her arms. On either side of her are two blue panels with the time represented in roman numerals on the left and in Arabic numerals on the right, as was traditional at the time when the Byzantine influences were ripe throughout Italy.

The Zodiac Symbols on the Clock

The most impressive feature of the clock is the blue and gold engraved clock face with fantastically detailed signs of the zodiac encircling it. The large dial on the clock is set with the huge face of the sun. The dial, emblazed with the image of the sun, revolves around the zodiac signs and rather than showing the time, it marks the date. In the centre is a small gold orb representing the sun and below it, a smaller orb representing the phases of the moon.

St Mark’s Basilica

St. Mark’s Basilica is famously one of the most precious Byzantine treasures of the time. Within it, preserved by time, are so many aspects of history, art culture and faith. The most notable element of the design of the church are the powerful domes that are set against the sky. The bulb-shaped domes with their finials lanterns give the church that middle eastern appearance and character which defined the Byzantine period.

The exterior of St. Mark’s Basilica can be studied by its three distinctive areas; the lower level, upper level and the domes. The lower level mosaics are all scenes from the life of Saint Mark, for whom the church derives its name. In the central arch where the enormous doorway is located there is the largest mosaic which depicts the Last Judgment. The original mosaic would have been made in the 13th century but this current incarnation from the 19th-century. The portals which lead into the church are stacked with various colours of marble, creating a foreshortening perspective effect. Like you are being pulled into the church.

Mosaics of St. Mark’s Basilica

On either side of the central portal, the mosaics each depict the life of St. Mark. The first one on the left is the only one on the façade still surviving from the 13th century. The lunettes above the first floor depict the life of Christ. The lower level features dozens of marble columns. These rich columns are decorated in sumptuous vegetal motifs.

The Bronze Horses

The upper-level balcony, above the main entrance, also features four bronze horses. There are the Horses of Saint Mark-Lysippos and were stolen from Constantinople in 1252. The ones outside the church today are actually replicas of the original horses, as the originals were suffering terribly from the elements. They were brought inside the church museum in order to preserve them for years to come. The original bronze horses date all the way back to classical antiquity. It is rumoured that perhaps they once were positioned pulling an emperors chariot atop the Arch of Trajan in Rome. The Horses were one of the many trophies collected during the Crusades.

Above the horses, the ogee arch is decorated with blue glass and golden stars. In fro of this starry sky is the gilded winged lion, the symbol of Venice. Above the great lion, standing brightly against the blue sky, are Saint Mark and his six angels.

Entering St. Mark’s Basilica

If you are interested in going inside the Basilica, be warned the queue can get very long. But if you want to save yourself a bit of time you can book a timed entry ticket online that only costs €6.00. Well worth it, in my opinion, to be sure you are the first one in the door, leaving the rest of your day completely open.

If you don’t buy your ticket in advance, you will have to line up. The wait time is, on average, about 45 minutes but the earlier you arrive in the morning, the less of a line you’ll run into. When we arrived, early in the day, the line moved swiftly and we barely had to wait at all. But of course, this depends on the time of year you visit.

Interior Mosaics

Upon entering the church the first thing you’ll notice is the overwhelming amount of golden mosaics covering the floor, all the way up to the domed ceiling. There are over 85,000 square feet of mosaics in St. Mark’s Basilica. The light reflects off the surface of the glass and depending on the time of the day, the light changes the effect and the appearance of the interior. So depending on when you visit you might get a different experience from someone else. So much gold was used in its construction of the church that the residents of Venice would call it the Chizea d’Oro or, the Gold Church.

Because the Basilica was built during the Byzantine age, and architectural methods weren’t as advanced as they are now, you’ll notice large thick walls, hundreds of columns and the heavy use of marble. They needed only the strongest of materials to help keep the multi-domed ceiling standing.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Tiger Oma (@tiger_oma)

Inside the church are the treasures of the fourth crusade on the holy land. During the 4th-century crusade, Venice deemed itself the holiest place on earth. And therefore all the treasures the crusading armies found were brought to Venice. One such treasure is the Pala d’Oro. The Pala d’Oro is decorated with 1,300 pearls, 300 emeralds, 300 sapphires, 400 garnets, 100 amethysts, plus rubies and topazes. A glittering masterpiece.

Porta Della Carta

Coming back out of the church, into St Mark’s square, be sure to take a moment to study the Porta della Carta on the side of the church. In 1442 this was the ceremonial entrance to the church was built to connect the church to the Doge’s Palace. The doorway is dripping in gothic ornamentation, with two tall, thin pinnacles flanking either side of the statue of the Doge Francesco Foscari. The Doge is seen kneeling before the Lion of Saint Mark. Below each pinnacle is are statues of cardinal virtues.  

Doge’s Palace

A Venetian Doge is something that many of you may not have heard of before. A Doge is pretty much like an English Duke, they served as the leader of the Republic of Venice from 726 to 1797. The Doge would rule over Venice from his seat of power inside the incredible Doge’s Palace. Today the building serves a public museum.

The building itself is a wonder to behold. Despite the enormity of the upper structure, it looks almost weightless as it is supported by the delicate pink Verona marble columns. The columns are decorated with a lacy pattern, making them look even more fragile. The top of the building is adorned with spiked merlons and looks like frosted meringue atop a cake.

Walk through the arcade and study the individual capitals of the columns on the right side.

Piazzetta 

Past the Basilica, walking south towards the water, you can find the Piazzetta. The Piazzetta is the smaller square to the south. In the middle of the square are two large two columns, made in red marble. Between these two columns is where death sentences were announced during the medieval ages.

At the top of the columns are two statues, each depicting one of the patron saints of Venice; St Mark and St Theodore, on the left and right respectively if you’re facing the water. St. Mark is depicted as the winged lion of Venice and St. Theodore can be seen standing atop, of all things, a crocodile. In his hand, he also holds a spear which we can assume he used to slay the giant crocodile. Saint Theodore is more commonly known for slaying a dragon, not a crocodile, but perhaps the Venetians artists of the time who made this carving had little knowledge of what a real dragon looked like, so instead, they simply carved the next best thing, a crocodile.

The Bridge of Sighs

Walk around the Doge’s Palace until you turn to face the Bridge of Sighs. The bridge of sighs created to join the interrogation rooms of the Doge’s Palace to the prison across the canal. If you were found guilty by the Serenissima you were set to the prison, but upon crossing the bridge, were allowed to look out at Venice one last time. Two small, square windows on the bridge allowed prisoners this one moment of reflection, before facing their possible lifetime of imprisonment. The bridge’s windows are covered in a tightly knit wrought iron bars, so no one could escape.

Day Two – Exploring the Hidden Canals

Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo

Continue heading north until you reach the Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo. This small palazzo has become an iconic viewpoint in Venice. The palazzo’s incredible, honeycomb-like spiral staircase, with a fantastic balcony at the top, provides one of the most amazing views across the city, and over St. Mark’s square. The staircase is called the “Scala Contarini del Bovolo” or “or the snail”.

Built in the 15th century for the wealthy Contarini family, the house became instantly notable for its unique outer staircase. In 1952 Orson Welles also fell in love with the house and even featured it in his film adaptation of Shakespeare’s Othello. The Palazzo was closed for many years but in 2016 it opened up its doors to the public. For three euros you can climb the stairs to the top and get a snap of the great landscape.

Explore the Side Canals

Make your way through this small island, heading north and slightly eastward. I don’t want to give you exact directions since exploring and getting lost in these small, neighbourhood streets is half the fun. You’ll discover amazing balconies pouring over with brightly coloured flowers. You might uncover a few secrets, etched into the walls of the alleyways. Or even discover your new favourite pastry shop. While there are some specific sights to see in Venice, exploring these side streets is a joy unto its own.

The Grand Canal

Continue walking north along the Corte Theatro, through one of the darkest brick tunnels, until you emerge out into the bright light of the Grand Canal. As this is the first time we are really faced with the view of the Grand Canal, I suppose we should talk a little bit about this ever so important waterway. The Grand Canal essentially splits the city of Venice into two. While the original waterway which ran through here was no doubt much narrower, the ancient river is thought to be a branch of the Brenta. Ancient Venetian fishermen were once the only ones who lived here, in simple stilt houses.

It wasn’t until the 9th century when the Doge moved his palace into the more protected area of what would become St Mark’s square, that the canal was widened. The canal needed to be larger in order to make room for the large ships needed for the construction of the palace. The canal became less of a fishing spot and more like a ritzy main street. Wealthy families began buying up property and building their huge manors along the Grand Canal.

History of the Grand Canal

The grand canal was the entryway into the city and the Venetian Republic wanted every building lining it to demonstrate the city’s power, wealth and artistic sensibilities. Like a parade of the best architecture Europe had to offer. This huge canal is now flanked by 170 illustrious buildings, which are from as early as the 13th century to the 18th century.

Rialto Bridge

Continue along with the Riva del Ferro, walking along the edge of the Grand Canal. Emerging from the last arcade you’ll be greeted almost immediately by the sight of the bright white stone of the Rialto bridge. The Rialto Bridge is the most famous of all of Venice’s canal bridges. It is also the oldest of the four major bridges which connect the various districts of Venice. The original wooden bridge installed here was built here in 1173. Back then it went by the name Ponte Della Moneta, which means “money bridge“. The reason for this was that on one side of the canal once stood the largest mint in Venice. People would flood into their area and across the bridge at all hours of the day to deposit and take out their cash!

The old wooden bridge was split down the center and could be raised on either side, to allow for tall ships to enter into these narrow canals. This was of the utmost importance especially when the Rialto Market opened, as boats would come in in mass to deliver fresh fruits, vegetables and fish. But as time past, the wooden bridge just wasn’t up to snuff though. After years and years of wear, riots, fires and crowds eventually it collapsed.

New Rialto Bridge

The new Rialto bridge design was completed in 1551. The architect who designed it did away with the raised wooden design and instead favoured stone as it was more durable and could last the test of time. Since the stone bridge couldn’t be raised, he needed to ensure that the two inclined ramps would be tall enough to accommodate the galley ships that needed to pass through. The result is this grand archway which looks like a gilded enclosure around a picturesque living portrait. The stone structure also featured a covered portico on top with rows of shops on either side. The addition of shops here meant that their rent could help pay for the maintenance of the bridge going forward. Between the inclined set of porticos is a large arch, like the crown atop this stunning structure.

While the bridge has become somewhat of a tourist trap, with stores selling souvenirs lining the entire walkway, early in the morning when they are all closed, this bridge still keeps its magic. There are these two little nooks on the bottom of the bridge, where you can sit right under it, besides the water. This is one of the most amazing places to watch boats and gondolas float by with stacks of fruits and vegetables coming into the market as dawn casts itself on the city. The top of the bridge is also one of the most iconic spots for pictures in Venice.

Mercado di Rialto

Now that you’ve been introduced to the look of the city, it’s time to meet the people of Venice. And there is no better place to get a peek into the real lives of the residence of Venice than to head to the Rialto Market! The Rialto Market is one of the last remaining fresh food markets in the city and as such, is a bustling place for locals to come and buy their food for the day. The outdoor portion of the market is where you’ll find seasonal fruits and vegetables. If you’re looking for a snack there is nothing more refreshing than a basket of freshly picked fruits!

But the Rialto Market is much more than just a place to get some of the best food in the city! It is also a place of great historical value. Of all the rich bankers and traders who lived in the region, the most famous were the Rivoalto family. The Rivoalto traders were one of the first families to come into the lagoon to set up a trading post. They picked this location because it was situated along the bend of the lagoon. This meant it was located on higher ground and therefore was spared from some of the floodings that other parts of the island experienced. The first known market took place here in 1097. Because the family didn’t have to constantly rebuild themselves, the Rivoaltos grew in prominence and wealth over time, eventually having the very spot named after them.

Pescheria

Opposite the green awning of the outdoor market is the neo-gothic fish hall, or Pescheria, built in the early 1900s. Outside the red brick building there is still to this day a marble plaque which you should study before heading inside. This plaque denotes the different types of fish which were allowed to be legally sold here when the marketplace was first built. Certain fishes were protected from overfishing and therefore there was a limit to the amount any one person could buy.

The fish hall is a soaring building with richly ornamented arches surrounding the exterior. Inside the columns continue throughout the interior, making a simple stone building feel rich and illustrious. Fresh fish has long been one of the most important resources in Venice. Right outside their door, this amazing product is caught daily. It can’t get much more local than that!

Buying food at the Market

The market place was facing the chance of being shut down a few years ago, due to a possible canal expansion for cruise ships. Thankfully the citizens were able to convince the city to stop this and the market was saved. But as more and more people choose to shop at larger grocery stores off the island markets like this always face the chance of being closed. So if you’re going to visit, be sure you buy at least a little something. We bought some fresh raspberries and cherries and they were absolutely delicious!

Basilica dei Frari

But probably what brings most people to San Polo is the Basilica dei Frari or Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari. But most people just call it the “Frari” for short. The church is the beating heart of this neighbourhood. In 1231 the Doge Jacopo Tiepolo donated some land to the Franciscans. The original church he had built was small and as the Franscians rose to power, they demolished it in exchange for a larger, more impressive design. The current version was built in the 14th-century in high Venetian Gothic style.

At the back of the church is the great campanile, which is the second tallest tower in the city, after San Marco’s tower. The bell tower was built in 1396 and still stands today! The unassuming facade might fool you into thinking at first blush this church isn’t very important. But in actuality, it is perhaps one of the most significant churches in the city.

Titian Paintings in Venice

Many Doges were buried here under the watchful eye of masterful works of art by the painter Titian. Titian, who was a Venetian himself, painted the great altarpiece inside the church. The Assumption of the Virgin by Titian is one of the first things your eye is drawn towards as you enter the church. It sits behind the high altar, lit by the glow of the stained glass windows behind it. This piece is perhaps the best example of Titan’s masterful work. Setting the standard for Venetian art during the Renaissance.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Arte Mondo_ (@artemondo_)

Entry into the Church

There is a small fee to enter the church (€ 3,00) but it is more than worth it to gaze upon the painting the Assumption of the Virgin in situ. When I first saw this painting in person, it was a moment of awe for me. Some paintings, like the Mona Lisa perhaps, don’t live up to the hype. But this one is even more grandiose and firey in person than it was on any page or screen.

Titian died of the plague at the age of 94 and a memorial to his life and death stands inside the great basilica. The monument is gigantic! A version of the Assumption painting is carved into the stone behind an image of the painter crowed with a laurel wreath. On either side of the artist are two figures which represent the universal nature and the genius of knowledge. The other four figures are Painting, Sculpture, Graphic Art and Architecture.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Valeria Secco (@valeriasecco71)

Dorsoduro District

The Dorsoduro district is located on the bottom of the Venetian islands. This area borders the Grand Canal as well as the Venetian Lagoon, making it a prime spot for traders to live. While it’s not as flashy as the other districts, think of this as the blue-collar neighbourhood, I still find it to be one of the most charming areas in Venice. Dorsoduro lacks the pretensions of the other neighbourhood. Since it’s home to Venice’s Ca’ Foscari University you’ll also find the new blood of Venetian society, its students, who liven up the streets with modern music, food and entertainment.

Ponte dei Pugni

Continuing south, we’ll be going to pass over the Ponte dei Pugni. I love the view from this bridge. If you look towards the west you can see the bell tower from the church of Santa Maria del Carmelo. On either side of the bridge are a pair of footsteps marked on the corner. This marked the beginning of where the great fight between Venice’s two rival family factions took place in 1705. Thereafter, many more fights took place here. Opponents would stand on either side of the bridge, where the footsteps are now marked. Originally, there were no railings on this bridge, so when the two opponents would fight, the first one to fall off the bridge and into the water as the loser.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Joe Ng (@joengviolatofuman)

Cantine del Vino già Schiavi

By this time, we are approaching the evening, but its not time for dinner just yet. Oh no, first we must have aperitif! And one of the best places to get it in Dorsoduro is Cantine del Vino già Schiavi. This bar sells Cicchetti (small snacks) which include Venetian classics like crostini topped with salt cod and wild garlic, pistachio cream or alioli with flower petals. Grab an Aperol spritz to drink while standing at the bar to feel very much like a local.

Calle Nuova Sant’Agnese

Head northeast until you reach the Calle Nuova Sant’Agnese. This narrow street is filled with shops. Being so far away from the touristy areas, these stores are known to seel authentic Venetian goods but at reasonable prices. In addition to the tourist shops, you’ll also find unique boutiques which are a great way to support local businesses.

Basilica di Santa Maria Della Salute

If you’re still feeling up for it, continue walking through Dorsoduro, eastwards, until you reach the Basilica di Santa Maria Della Salute. This stunning white marble church is not only a sight to see, but where you can get a great view of Saint Mark’s square, where we first started the tour.

In 1630 Venice was being ravaged by the plague and there was no signs of it stopping. At the time, one of the ways people thought you could stop the plague was by making an offering to god and pray he would send deliverance to the city. So, the Republic of Venice built the church to Our Lady of Health as a last resort. Eventually, the plague period past and the city was able to start rebuilding itself. Nearly a third of the population of Venice died during the plague. Those that survived would remember that harrowing experience forever. Since the church was made in honour of stopping the plague, most of the art and symbolism you’ll find throughout the church in some way refers to death or the plague, making it a very uniquely themed church. 

The Dome of Basilica di Santa Maria Della Salute

The church is most notable for its humongous white dome which dominates the sky. The dome, which almost seems to defy gravity, became a symbol of inspiration for artists in the city. To support the huge dome and enormous marble church, 1,000,000 wooden piles were used to hold up the floating building. At the apex of the central pediment stands a statue of the Virgin Mary, looking out of the city. The group of figures in the scene is stunningly theatrical and it really looks like a moment frozen in time.

If you choose to come inside be sure to check out the statuary group at the high altar. This stone scene depicts depicting The Queen of Heaven expelling the Plague and was crafted in 1670. 

Zattere

To finish the evening, walk down south towards the far end of the island. The stone promenade which flanks the water’s edge is called the Zattere. Zattere in Italian means rafts. In the 16th century timber would arrive in the city on large rafts. Timber was not only used to constructed the walls of grand palazzos and houses in Venice, it was literally the ground on which the houses were built on. So timber was one of the most important imports in the city. Timber was also used to make gondolas up until the 18th century. Suffice to say, the city was literally built around the timber industry and therefore its importance is not to be ignored. The earliest parts of the Zattere date as far back as 1520! Today the wide promenade is a great place to watch the sunset against the waters of the canals.

Trattoria San Basilio

If you’re feeling like you would like to dine somewhere close to your accommodation there are Vaporetto stops all along the Fondamenta Zattere. But if you’re looking for something special along the water’s edge, but away from the touristy hub, you should check out Trattoria San Basilio.

This down to earth restaurant is located inside the corner of one of the older buildings in the Zattere. It barely looks like a restaurant at all except for the awning and few tables and chairs out front. But don’t let its modesty fool you, here you’ll find a relaxing atmosphere, friendly staff, and best of all, traditional Venetian cuisine. Their seafood spaghetti with mussels, clams and squids, tastes so fresh you’d swear the food jumped right onto your plate straight from the water. Try to get a spot outside to enjoy the sunset or the boats as they drive past into the moonlight.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Bettina Holstein (@bettinaholstein)

Phew, well that brings us to the end of this tour! Hopefully, if you packed this all into one day you found things along the way to return to tomorrow to investigate further! Let me know which neighbourhood was your favourite or what you’re most looking forward to visiting!

Happy Travels Adventurers!

The post Escape to Venice: Your Ultimate Guide to the Perfect 48 Hours in the Floating City – Steal This Itinerary Today! first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

Romance in Mexico City

1. Xochimilco Canals
2. One-in-a-Lifetime Dinner at Pujol
3. Colourful Street of Coyoacan
4. Sunset at the Torre Latinoamericana
5. Rent a Paddle Boat in Chapultepec Park
6. Alameda de Santa María la Ribera
7. Paseo de Reforma on Sundays
8. Picnic in Parque Mexico
9. Mercado de Artesanías La Ciudadela

Xochimilco Canals

The canals of Xochimilco, just outside of Mexico City, are a sight to behold. The historic landmark is over 450 years old and is still used as an essential source for agriculture. The canals are filled with chinampas, floating gardens that have been growing food since pre-Hispanic times. These chinampas were initially created to grow crops on dry land using the water from Lake Xochimilco.

But today, they primarily serve as recreation areas where people enjoy boat rides and fresh produce. The canals of Xochimilco are an iconic representation of Mexico City’s history, culture, and natural beauty. If you’re looking for a tranquil place to visit while in Mexico City, be sure to stop by this historical spot!

One-in-a-Lifetime Dinner at Pujol

Nothing is quite as romantic as a dinner at Pujol. When it comes to having the perfect date night this is the place to go! This famous restaurant has been labelled by many as one of the best restaurants in the world. It made the top 10 in 2021! The creator, Chef Enrique Olvera, is still one of the most influential chefs in the world.

His style is all about layering flavours and surprising tastes from his native country. The dishes are made from fresh, local ingredients sourced from small producers. The Pujol experience is about discovery and exploration. A gastronomical and sensorial journey and one you and your partner will never forget!

Colourful Street of Coyoacan

If you’re looking for someplace to get away from it all – even if it’s just for a little while – head to Coyoacan. Coyoacan is one of those gems where the city feels like it hasn’t changed in 100 years. It is filled with beautiful architecture, quaint street markets, and the most delicious Mexican food in the world! There’s no better way to experience the area than by wandering through these streets hand in hand with someone you love.

My favourite thing to do in Coyoacan is walking down Avenue Francisco Sosa to the Chapel of Santa Catarina. This quaint yet beautiful church is situated in this great plaza always decorated with festive papier piccolo. I have never been wandering here and not seen a couple wrapped in an embrace here. There is just something about this spot that seems to evoke romance. Jump across the street and into the Casa de Cultura Jesús Reyes Heroles. This picturesque house sits inside this unbelievably fantastic garden which is totally open to the public. It’s really the perfect place for a romantic date.

Sunset at the Torre Latinoamericana

The Torre Latinoamericana is located in the heart of Mexico city’s Historic Centre. The building offers a 360-degree panorama of the city and its skyline. On of the upper levels, you’ll find restaurant Miralto. The dining room features unparalleled views across the city. Although it has one of the best pieces of real estate, the prices here are shockingly reasonable. While the views are always amazing, you should book a table in advance to be here just before the sunset to get the most romantic atmosphere here. Arriving just before the evening means that as you enjoy your meal, you’ll be able to catch the absolutely unforgettable sunset across the valley.

Rent a Paddle Boat in Chapultepec Park

Chapultepec Park is one of the largest city parks in Latin America. It’s located just west of Mexico City’s downtown area. It houses many attractions, including museums, monuments, a zoo, and an amusement park. On the northern edge of Chapultepec Park, you will find a small lake where locals come to pass the time and cool off on hot days. Visitors can rent boats or rowboats on Chapultepec Lake and enjoy the park’s natural beauty from their own private boat.

These small boats give visitors a chance to explore the lake up close, away from all the noise around it. Paddleboats are a great way to explore Chapultepec Park and get close to the one you love. If you come during the Jacaranda season, the entire lake is surrounded by purple blossoms, one of the most spectacular sights you’ll ever see!

Alameda de Santa María la Ribera

Santa María la Ribera is a northern neighbourhood of Mexico City where the local flare is still as strong as ever. The community is just on the verge of gentrification. Although things are still rough, the streets are pouring with history and authenticity. On Sunday, the neighbourhood seems to all come out to the plaza surrounding the famous Kiosco Morisco.

The Alameda de Santa María is the meeting point for dancers on Sunday afternoons. They will be seen dancing to cumbia music. Cumbia is a musical rhythm and traditional folk dance from Colombia but popular here in Mexico City. While the dancer is mainly elderly couples, they are more than willing to encourage you to join in. You can also just sit and watch on the sidelines. Watching the love that these elderly people still exude towards each other through dance is genuinely such a romantic way to spend an afternoon.

Paseo de Reforma on Sundays

There is something really romantic about trying something new together. Unless you’re an avid cyclist, many of us haven’t been on a bike in years. There is something about hopping on that bike that makes you feel like a kid again, and cruising along seems to evoke that childish glee. Something fantastic to share with those you love. On Sundays, in Mexico City, the Paseo de Reforma is closed down to automobile traffic to allow cyclists, scooters, and pedestrians to take over. The street is one of the most important in the city. It is dotted with incredible statues, architecture and sights along the way. You can rent a bike or even get one free at the government-sponsored booths.

If biking isn’t your thing, you can also rent a scooter to cruise along the broad avenues. But if you’d rather keep both feet on the ground, you can simply walk along the street. A street which is often unbearable loud from the traffic is suddenly one of the city’s most picturesque and peaceful jaunts. On either side of the road, vendors pop up where you can sample some incredible street food or shop at one of the many local artisans. A perfect afternoon date.

Picnic in Parque Mexico

One of the most romantic places in the city has got to be the Parque Mexico in the centre of La Condesa. The park stands today was the former site of the horse race track of the Jockey Club de México. Today the enormous green space is home to dozens of architecturally beautiful benches nestled into the forest. You can always find dozens of young couples here, escaping the prying eyes of their family, kissing under the palm trees.

The Teatro al Aire Libre Lindbergh (Lindbergh Open Air Theater) is the central hub of the park. It features these great five monumental pillars and is surrounded by a winding pergola that is almost blooming with bright fuchsia flowers. The theatre is often home to neighbourhood soccer games and always a space for the cutest dogs! In 2020 park also became home to a new AudioRama. Here, you can sit in one of the many comfortable swinging chairs and listen to the music piped through the park meant for relaxation, meditation and enjoyment of the public. An excellent spot for your loved one and you to have a peaceful cuddle.

Mercado de Artesanías La Ciudadela

The colourful Mercado de Artesanías La Ciudadela is the best place to shop for sourvenirs in Mexico City. But it is also one of the most exciting and vibrant places to explore. A really romantic and exciting date idea is actually to split up…at least for an hour. I actually mean that they give each other a tiny budget, say $500 peso ($25 USD) and spend an hour looking for something inside the marketplace to gift each other.

It’s so fun to explore the market, especially finding something to impress your loved one. It makes you look at each item from a different perspective, and you will be so surprised at what you’ll find along the way. My husband loves wrestling and was able to find some really unique t-shirts designed by local artists that were inspired by retro Lucha Libre posters. He still wears those shirts all the time, and it always makes me fondly remember our first trip to Mexico City.

Let me know in the comments where your favourite Romantic spots are in Mexico City!

Happy Travels, Adventurers

The post The Most Romantic Places to See in Mexico City first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

#1 The Musée d’Orsay | Paris, France

The Musée d’Orsay is centred right in the heart of Paris, the city of love. It is filled with romantic masterpieces and alluring impressionist paintings. The museum is housed in what used to be the Beaux-Arts train station built in 1898. Elements of the old train station can still be seen throughout the museum.

This museum gets its reputation as one of the most romantic museums since it houses the largest impressionist and post-impressionist paintings in the world. Works of art from Monet, Degas, Manet and Renoir decorate the walls of the museum. These soft and subtle paintings lull you into a sweet and sensual world. No one can stand in front of Monet’s Lily Pond and not be transported. And Renoir’s scenes of passionate delights in the Dancing at the Moulin de la Galette in Montmartre makes you want to grab your partner’s hand and dance the day away yourself.

Google Galleries

Through the Google online galleries, you can see works from Monet, Manet, Degas, Renoir, Cézanne, Seurat, Sisley, Gauguin, and Van Gogh. Zoom right in to see the tiny textures of the brush strokes. You can study the gentle expressions on even the background characters’ faces! Getting this close to these famous paintings is something you can only experience online.

#2 Museum of Broken Relationships | Zagreb, Croatia

An art collection dedicated to the end of a relationship might seem like an odd choice when listing off Romantic museums. But the Museum of Broken Relationships is one of the most emotionally resonant places in the world. Whether they are stories of sadness, anger or sentimentality, each piece in the museum tells the story of the power of love. And how it can change your life forever.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Museum of Broken Relationships (@brokenships)

Right now, the entire collection of the Museum of Broken Relationships is now up online. We’ve all experienced aspects of these stories in our own lives, and it’s only in learning from them that we can grow. Valentines doesn’t have to be celebrated just by those in a relationship, but also by those who love themselves. Even if you’re single or going through a painful breakup, there is a sense of community and understanding surrounding you, even in this online gallery. If you are in a relationship, reading through these might be the icebreaker you need to share your own stories. It might allow you to open up in ways you might not expect.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Museum of Broken Relationships (@brokenships)

#3 The Louvre | Paris, France

The Louvre is home to some of the most romantic sculptures from around the world. Whether is the Winged Victory of Samothrace or carvings of Eros and Psyche’s carving by the illustrious Antonio Canova or the famed Venus de Milo the museum is filled with passionate treasures.

You can view the entire museum in 4K through the virtual video tour below! Pause as you go and discuss with your Palentine, lover or partner when something catches your eye – for better or for worse! There is so much to learn from discussing art. You don’t need to be an art historian or scholar to talk about it either. This easy couch viewing is a great way to discover what you love and what interests you. And then once the world opens back up again, you can go out and pursue more of that!

#4 V&AVictoria and Albert Museum | London, England

Queen Victoria and Prince Albert had one of the most poetic relationships in English history. Most court marriages are arranged to secure political alliances, so it’s rare that we see a case of true love in the monarchy. Queen Victoria loved Prince Albert so profoundly that after his death, she wore black for the rest of her life in honour of his passing and the overwhelming grief she felt in his absence. She built this museum to honour his memory. He always wanted the people to be knowledgeable and share in the riches of his kingdom. Here, at the V&A, the public can view the treasures of England’s past, present and precious objects from around the world.

Gifts of Jewels

Some of the most romantic parts of the collection include illustrated manuscripts of famous love songs from the Renaissance and sultry sculptures depicting some of the greatest love stories from antiquity. The V&A also houses over 3,000 pieces of jewellery, many of which were given as tokens of love. Here you can look down at medieval love rings, a pendant given to Elizabeth I from one of her lovers and sparkling tiaras worn by princesses on their wedding day. Their fantastic jewellery collection has all been documented online for your viewing pleasure. See what your partner thinks is your style or pick out your favourites piece for a friend as you pretend to be princesses!

#5 The Uffizi Museum | Florence, Italy

The building we now know as the Uffizi Museum didn’t start off as a museum at all. It was once the palace of Cosimo I de Medici, designed by Giorgio Vasari. These two names, Vasari and Medici, are perhaps the two most essential words in art history. The Medici family was one of the wealthiest families in Florence and shaped the history of Italy and art history forver.

Although not famous for paintings, Vasari is whom we refer to as “the first art historian.” He created an almost complete book called The Lives of the Artists. He grew up with Michelangelo, Donatello, Titian, Leonardo Da Vinci, Raphael and hundreds more. His biographies are annotated with juicy pieces of gossip and personal anecdotes, which provide a glimpse into these historic artists’ real world. His love for art was unending. The same goes for the Medici’s. Although it might not be love between two people, these people’s devotion and affection for art and artists run deeper and more profoundly than many human romances.

Google Galleries

10 of the museum’s most popular galleries are now on display on their website in 360°! You can virtually walk through the gallery and zoom into each painting along the wall. If you are interested in learning more about a specific picture, then head over to Google Art and Culture Galleries. Over here, you can click on any image that catches your eye. It will bring you into a detailed description of the piece and more information about the artists. They also have a few online exhibitions. One of these walks you through every last detail of Piero di Cosimo’s famous panting “Perseus Freeing Andromeda.”

#6 Belvedere Palace and Museum | Vienna, Austria

The Belvedere Museum was once a vast baroque Palace, home to the ruling Habsburg dynasty and built for Prince Eugene of Savoy. The Prince always loved art and started collecting at a young age. In 1781 the Prince opened up parts of his imperial collection up to the public. Over the years, the state collection grew and grew, and in 1903 the Moderne Galerie was opened as a public museum. Its curator, a subordinate to the Minister of Culture, made sure to acquire art from all different epochs representing a wide breadth of art from Austria’s history. 

But what makes this museum worthwhile on our virtual journey through romantic museums is its collection of Klimt masterpieces. His pièce de résistance is entitled The Kiss and is widely thought of as one of the most romantic and passionate paintings ever made. Klimt was a fiery painter and lover. His favourite subject was the female body, and his works are all marked by intense eroticism. The Kiss depicts two figures joined together in a tight embrace as they stand on the edge of a cliff. Even the shape of the Kiss has suggestive symbolism. The man and woman together form the shape of a phallus – it doesn’t get more on the nose than that.

Google Galleries

Google’s Arts and Culture contains Belvedere’s complete collection of digitized artwork for you to view and read about. They also have an excellent digital exhibition on ‘The Kiss.‘ I was lucky enough to see this work of art in person and was absolutely mesmerized by it. Getting the chance to learn a little bit more about the painting was a great way to recall some of those treasured memories.

Belvedere’s Online Gallery

One of the most unique features of Belvedere’s online gallery is its use of augmented reality. You can visit their website and use an app on your phone to study a series of Egon Schiele’s paintings in greater detail. When you use your phone to scan the image on the screen, it will trigger an audio track that guides you through the work of art. You can also use your phone as a scanner, using infrared technology to uncover hidden secrets beneath the finished painting.

#7 Louisiana Museum of Modern Art | Øresund Sound in Humlebæk, Denmark

The Louisiana Museum of Modern Art is in a world of its own. Unlike most museums, it’s not in the centre of a big city. To get here, you have to take a train from the centre of the town and travel out to the calm countryside—a perfect weekend getaway for you and your loved one. The idyllic, breathtaking landscape surrounding the museum is in itself what makes this place so romantic.

As you approach the museum, you wander through a small Danish waterside fishing village. You pass little cottages and tiny farms when suddenly you come upon an unassuming yet contemporary looking building. The sound of water can be heard in the distance, and as you pass through an archway of trees, you come upon the museum’s entrance.

Outdoor Modern Art

Inside is a mixture of indoor and outdoor exhibitions. The combination of art, architecture and scenery is impeccable. You weave through the collections at your own pace. The outdoor sculptures are hidden among the trees and seem like a little secret you can discover along the way. The way you view the art is a very personal experience. Modern art can be challenging to define, and it is more up to the viewers on interpretation. Discussing the ideas and emotions that each piece brings forth inside you and your partner is such a bonding adventure. One that is sure to spark some passionate feelings.

Outside Suburbia has an excellent virtual written and photographic tour that guides you through the museum in the most charming and captivating ways. The short video I’ve inserted below was filmed by the museum and gives you a glimpse of the incredible outdoor sculpture gallery. Another great way to experience a part of this collection from your sofa at home.

#8 Rodin Museum | Paris, France

The Rodin Museum houses a collection of works from its namesake, Auguste Rodin. Rodin was one of the first sculptors of his age to depart from traditional sculpting methods (generally thought to be overly perfect and unrealistic). He loved imperfections and wanted to depict a truer to form a representation of the human figure. Instead of stiffly posed allegories, we were suddenly exposed to voluptuous, undulating women with wills and desires of their own. Like Klimt, Rodin was an intensely passionate man and this vigour can be throughout his work. Rodin had a love affair with love itself, and all of his pieces speak to a visceral part of ourselves. They awaken us. And for the lovers, they might ever enliven something else…

While The Kiss is the most notable sculpture by Rodin, many others deserve their moment in the sun. Nymphs Playing, Eternal Idol and The Cathedral are all splendidly tender pieces that bring me to my knees. And best of all, they each have been captured virutally to be viewed online.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Uliana Koltun (@ulianakoltun)

Rodin’s Sculptures

Many of Rodin’s sculptures are carved in what feels like a fiery outburst. Like the figures burst forth from the stone. They are partly unfinished, as love itself as an unfinished masterpiece, never to be fully understood. That sense of mystery is what fuels the fire of love and keeps us intrigued and impassioned.

To see a complete collection of his work online, head off to the Google Arts and Culture collection. Here you can select the pieces which pique your interest and find out more information on them. To get even more insight into the artworks, you can head over to the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (I know, a little bit of a detour). This museum also holds various copies of Rodin’s pieces. They offer amazing audio guides to each of the sculptures.

These audio tours are a great way to learn more about the artists and the object. If you’d rather sit back and watch something then the video below is a relaxing tour of the museum set to romantic music. While the video was shot a while ago, I find the footage to be a lovely and nostalgic view of the gallery, in all its simplicity and grace.

#9 Thorvaldsen Museum | Copenhagen, Denmark

This won’t be on many other lists. It’s a bit of a wild card. And I think I like that. It’s nice to have something a bit out of the ordinary at the top of the list because if it wasn’t, you could be reading this anywhere else. Thorvaldsen is a mostly unknown name outside of Europe. Still, within the continent, he is among some of the most famous sculptors! Thorvaldsen was born in Copenhagen in 1770 to poor parents, but lucky for him his father was a carver. From a young age, Thorvaldsen learned to sculpt; his eyes would trace over an object and he would memorize its lines and curves. From only his memory he could then copy the form onto a piece of wood almost perfectly.

He learned to appreciate the subtle curvatures of the human body. Eventually, his skills were recognized by the art community. He got a scholarship and the opportunity to travel to Rome. There, he studied under some of the great masters and worked there until 1838. When he was in Italy, he took on many prestigious clients and commissions. When he finally returned to Denmark, heralded as a national hero, a museum was built in his honour to house his works. Unlike many artists who never get to see their creations loved by the public, Thorvaldsen had the opportunity to see the museums built from the ground up and watch the people come to admire his artworks.

Neo-Classical Sculpture

The basis of Thorvaldsen’s oeuvre is Neo-classical art. Greek and Roman myths created the universe where his art lived. The characters and stories he told through still marble still manage to move the most hardened heart. Cupid, one of the most notorious symbols on Valentine’s Day, is celebrated throughout the Thorvaldsen’s Museum. So many of his sculptures are so sensual in nature. The way he can turn hard stone to butter to capture the softness of skin and the brush of a caress.

Google Arts and Culture have a beautifully digital collection of his sculptures that you can view online. They also have the museum captured in 360 in google street view, so you can walk through the museum yourself to discover treasures around every corner.

You can also head over to my blog post, where you get a complete tour of the museum and detailed descriptions about the objects and the artist’s history. It’s a wonderful companion to Google street view and will make you feel like you’re really there!

Hopefully, this list gave you some ideas of how to find that sense of wanderlust even amid this pandemic! Sometimes you just need to get a little creative. Let me know in the comment what your favourite romantic museum or gallery is!

Happy (virtual) Travels, Adventurers!

The post The Most Romantic Museums to Visit Virtually on Valentines first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.