By Victoria Boster –
Venice is one of the most romantic cities in the world. There is something special and intimate about walking the narrow cobblestone streets that have no names. With stunning canal views, romantic foot bridges, and gentle waters lapping against crumbling buildings, Venice is truly a city for the senses.
You can’t really get lost in Venice- but you should try– Not only are street signs often invisible in this city, but the streets themselves often come to an abrupt end. As you stand and stare at a canal intersecting the path you were once on, there is nothing you can do but turn around and start over.
Amidst the confusion however, will be remarkable and memorable opportunities for romantic walks along side canals, eating gelato on the corner of streets, passing locals down back alleys and stopping at the end of the road to reflect on the special moments of the day.
On our daily walks we found ourselves in small secluded neighborhoods where Venetians conversed with each other from open windows and children kicked soccer balls down small alleys. As we strolled along narrow streets, the delicious aroma of home cooking filled the air and we enjoyed eating authentic and delicious Italian food made from the freshest ingredients, in small family-run restaurants. We came upon small Piazzas and sat and watched as day turned into night and night turned into darkness. It was a truly amazing experience!
Venice is filled with architecture, art and history and is a city just waiting to be discovered. It doesn’t provide grid lines to follow or a street sign to go by – rather it gives each person the chance to be an individual and leave their own foot prints along unknown streets.
English is readily spoken in the main areas along the square but that becomes less the case as you travel further away from the main tourist areas. On our trip to this great city, my husband and I made a habit of starting our day early- sometimes as early as 6 am.
One of my favorite Venice memories is of an early morning walk that brought us past the “gondola garage” and then to a haphazard little bookstore where we saw several Monks in their traditional robes shopping for pleasure. (I did manage to sneak a few pictures!)
The islands of Murano (known for glass blowing) and Burano (known for lace making) are the most famous. They are both full of character and color. Murano will be the more crowded of the 2 and is about a 25 minute vaporetto ride from Venice. Beautiful Burano is usually not populated with tourists and is a 40 minute ride on the vaporetto. Of the two- Burano is my favorite- I found it to be quaint, quiet, and totally captivating in charm.
Just across the Grand Canal from the city of Venice is the most revered of places. The island of San Michelle- often simply referred to as Cemetery Island is a place that I loved to visit. Only true Venetians, those pure of heart and loyal to Venice are entombed there. I found this little island to be a spiritual and humbling place to visit. Beautiful in character, serene, and amazingly photogenic, this island is dear to the hearts of Venetians. Most certainly worthy of a visit– but go on a day when the cruise ship is not in port. Because of its close proximity to Venice, San Michelle is another popular tourist attraction- but on off days– no one will be there.
While Venice is a remarkable place to visit- there are some things that you need to know–
2. Shopping in Venice is not as easy as you might think. The stores that encircle St Marks square and along the canals are truly beautiful. The windows are mesmerizing in their displays of blown glass, gorgeous jewelry, and artistically crafted carnival masks.
If you are planning to spend a considerable amount of money on Murano glass ( and it is costly!) – do some research to determine the location of reputable shops before you go.
The most popular souveigners to bring home include Murano glass, lace items from Burano, and beautiful Carnival masks. Venice is also noted for exquisite jewelry. What did I bring home? The most exquisite glass earrings–!
My top suggestions for “must do” things in Venice–
1. Get lost! Go ahead— it’s going to be wonderful!
(Before your trip I would recommend reading City of Falling Angels by John Berendt. This incredible story describes Venice in such a way that you will eagerly want to visit all the places described in the book. I actually used it as one of my guidebooks.)
2. Get up early for the sunrise at St Marks square. There are no words to describe this incredible experience–
3. Plan to take a tour of St Marks Basilica. Avoid the long lines and crowds by paying a small fee for an advance reservation.
4. Visit the islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello. The Vaporetto ride is also a unique experience.
5. In the early morning- or late at night after all the crowds have gone home and Venice is once again all quiet– find a place to sit close to the Square– and listen- just quietly listen to the bells.
The thing that I love most about Venice- the part of Venice that lives in my soul- the reason that I have to go back— is the bells. I have to hear those bells again–
Victoria Boster-
An empty nester who now spends many hours crafting knitted artisan “nests”~~Vicki is passionate about her hobbies, her travels and her busy life. Vicki states that she loves to travel and that she and her husband are always either just getting back or just getting ready to go- someplace.”
Between travels Vicki works full time as a Neonatal Nurse in Huntington, West Virginia. Her career spans over 35 years of Neonatal care. You can visit Vicki at her blog www.vicki-2Bagsfull.blogspot.com where she shares her crafts, travels, and all the happenings in her Sacred Yarn Room.
SuZeQ
March 16, 2012 at 9:52 pm
Ohhhhhhhhhhh, Vicki! Your words are music to my soul. Everything you write is magical in that I feel like I’m right there vacationing with you. We shopped, we ate, we listened to the bells and we played with the kittens. Tell me that’s not magical!
Joyful
March 18, 2012 at 1:20 am
Beautiful post. You make this destination come alive for me. I love your tips which will help me should I be able to get to Venice some day 🙂
Lili
March 18, 2012 at 8:42 am
This was so beautifully written and illustrated that it gave me a sense of longing to travel there someday. I really enjoyed the travel tips and can appreciate the adventure aspect of just getting lost and immersing and delighting in the true Italian experience.Hearing those bells set off an emotional response for me too. Bravo Vicki for sharing this wonderful experience with us!
Erin Houghton
March 18, 2012 at 9:45 am
Thank your for the lovely and beautifully written and photographed article about Venice. The travel tips Vicki gives are very helpful and it is nice to know that one can travel there and stay away from the expensive “tourist traps” and find wonderful and affordable meals and shops.I look forward to hearing the bells when I travel to Venice. Thank you for sharing another delightful travel adventure with us.
michelle
March 18, 2012 at 2:31 pm
oh this was wonderfully written my friend! Pure joy to read! You eloquently shared what Venice has to offer…heaven! merci! 😉
Shirley
March 18, 2012 at 7:27 pm
Vicki, I knew that I would enjoy the pictures and reading every word of your post. It made me feel that I was right there with you. Thank you for my wonderful trip to Venice. Enjoyable Shirley
Janet
March 21, 2012 at 12:05 pm
Venice is my husbands favorite city in the World. Vicki’s description is so vivid and true. vicki, hearing the bells makes me want to pack up and go back now. thank you for sharing. Janet
Linda at Beautiful Ideas
March 30, 2013 at 10:19 am
What a fabulous account! You have brought this place back to me, Vicki, and make me want to return soon. I love the way your write, my dear. Thank you for this gift.