Adventure Woman Loves Venice

Venice, Italy
“Seven Must-Do Activities”

One of the most spectacularly beautiful and deeply romantic cities in the world is Venice, Italy. The old-world Venetian architecture and secluded waterways navigated by the lilting voices of singing gondoliers make for an intimately dreamy experience. Founded in the 6th Century Venice has enjoyed a history of great wealth and artistic achievement. Operatic composer, Antonio Vivaldi, was from Venice and other luminaries include, artists Veronese, Canaletto, and Fortuny, and the legendary, seducer of women, Casanova. If you and your own “Casanova” plan to visit Venice make an effort to see Adventure Woman’s “Must-Do” Activities.

1.Fortuny Museum: This wonderful museum has thankfully reopened after being closed for renovations. Mariano Fortuny converted this palace into a magnificent painting studio and it retains its former authenticity and splendor with Fortuny’s personal collections. It showcases Fortuny’s paintings, photography and luxurious fabrics. The studio was donated by Fortuny’s widow to Venice in 1956.

2. St. Mark’s Basilica: (Known as Basilica Cattedrale Patriarcale di San Marco) is the most famous and decrative of Venice’s churches and is located in St. Marks Square connected to the Doges (see below). It is an example of extravagant Byzantine architecture. The inside is just as impressive as the outside with gold and bronze mosaics on the ceilings (8,000 square meters). The marble flooring is also an exquisite piece of artwork. Actually, you are surrounded by beauty everywhere you look in the Basilica. The Greek Horses installed at the Basilica have enjoyed an amazing and colorful history (they are well-traveled horses). The originals are now housed inside at the museum while replicas are outside. http://www.basilicasanmarco.it

3. Grand Canal Tour: The Grand Canal Tour is a great way to take in the wide-variety of Venetian Architecture and absorb the diverse history of the city. It is the main waterway of Venice and is approximately two miles long and 350 feet at its widest point. Many celebrities and dignitaries have lived along this prime section of real estate and it makes for an entertaining and visually stimulating tour. Try to take an open-top boat for better views.

4. Tour Doge’s Palace: This phenomenal building, known as Palazzo Ducale, is located in St. Mark’s Square and on the edge of the Venetian Lagoon. The structure was used as governmental headquarters for the Venice Republic and home of the Republic leader, the Doge. It has been converted into a museum with significant paintings and showcases grandiose gothic architecture (construction began in the early 1300s). http://www.museiciviciveneziani.it/frame.asp?musid=8&sezione=musei

5. Take the Elevator to the Top of Campanile: The campanile is the bell tower located in St. Mark’s Square. From the top of the Campanile you can see an awe-inspiring views of the city of Venice and the famous lagoons and canal ways. And good news! There is an elevator inside so you don’t have to worry about climbing the 323 foot structure. The Campanile has a long history and endured centuries of change. In 1902 it finally collapsed but was rebuilt in 1912.

6. Piazza San Marco: (Also known as St. Mark’s Square). The “Piazza” was called “the Drawing room of Europe,” by Napoleon. This is a perfect place to take photographs as the views in every direction are spectacular. A century old tradition of St. Mark’s Square was feeding the pigeons. However, it was banned in 2008 due to perceived damage to nearby buildings and health concerns. Another concern for the Square is the flooding. St. Mark’s Square is the lowest point in Venice and is the first place to flood. Nevertheless, one can’t go to Venice without strolling around this iconic spot and imaging the legions of historic people who have strode before.

7. Take a Gondola Ride: Taking a gondola is a definite “Must Do” when visiting Venice. Yes, it is a little expensive but the memories and the experience will be worth it. A typical gondola ride is 40-50 minutes (costing around $100 US Dollars). The fare is officially set. You can share a gondola with other people (up to six) and split the fare. A gondola ride may be more romantic at night but the price increases as well. If you want a singing gondolier ask beforehand if this is a service provided.

If you go, let us know! Submit@AdventureWoman.com. We always want to hear about your adventures.