We decided to finish out our 3-week whirlwind Italy Journey in Venice.
We had never been. But we’ve always been curious.
We decided to stay 3 nights / 2 days, as it was the end of the trip and we felt we may not attack our sightseeing with as much gusto as the beginning of the trip. I’m glad we did. While there are sights to be seen, Venice is really to be explored and experienced.
We had seen palaces cathedrals and museums. We were just up for wandering. There really is no better city than Venice to wander. While the area around Rialto is very busy, Venice becomes a quaint, even quiet city just a block or two away. Cross the bridges and see where it takes you. You can always easily find your way back. Just listen.
As you cross the bridges, look and listen for the gondolas. There’s the almost constant soundtrack of gondoliers singing their ballads throughout the city and all day long.
Yes, we went to St Mark’s Square and no, we did not go into the Basilica or Doge’s Palace. Our first day was spent exploring. We just wandered and wandered. Don’t worry, you really can’t get lost.
That evening, we had arranged for a boat tour of the grande canal that evening, which was very nice. He took us all through the grande canal and out into the lagoon. You get to see the city from a different vantage point. Although, it was cloudy so we couldn’t really see the sunset. You see that most of the buildings are old palaces. Also, can you imagine growing up and no cars? There are no roads. Just canals and walkways. So I wonder if, instead of getting a driver’s license you get your boating license? Hmmm.
On the second day, we wandered and shopped. We looked through many shops at all the glass figures and beads. Looking for gifts for co-workers, friends, etc…
Oh yes, we heard all the rumors:
- The canals smell like sewers
- It’s overrun with tourists
- you can see everything in 1 day – go as a day trip
To answer these rumors, yes, some of the canals can have a stale, odor, Not unlike any river. These canals get lots of movement, with all the boats, gondolas, etc… the water is constantly moving. Now, I would not want to swim in that water…or heaven forbid, fall into the water…
Venice is a busy, very touristed city. Cruise ships come here. Just a block or two off the main thoroughfares (i.e. Rialto) and it’s a quiet, quaint city. Wander and get lost. We stayed in an area that was 10 minutes walking from the Rialto but a world away. In the morning, almost no one would be in the streets.
Yes, you can see everything in one day. That’s not the point of travel. The point is to experience the city. Go to the markets. Look in the shops. Bring home a fun trinket that you can’t find at home. The Murano glass is everywhere, be sure to look around. The quality varies dramatically!
A great way to end a marvelous trip.