Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Best
Secrets
Yellow signs across Venice helpfully point out major routes to San Marco, Rialto
and Ferrovia (train station). But here's the secret to any great Venetian adventure:
ignore those signs. Venice's finest moments are hidden in crooked
calli
(lanes),
shady
cortili
(courtyards) and
palazzo
(palace) attics. Look no further for Venice's
best artisans' studios, finest seafood, spy headquarters and walk-in ball-gown
closets.
Freebies
Despite its centuries-old reputation as a playground for Europe's elite, Venice's
finest moments are freebies. Golden glimpses of heaven in Basilica di San Marco
are gratis, and the diocese offers free guided mosaic tours. Entry is free and poten-
tially curative at Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute, built as thanks for Venice's
salvation from the plague, with a dome said to radiate healing energy. Carnevale is
best celebrated in the streets - especially on the first night, when wine fountains
flow free along the Grand Canal.
Hidden Wonders
Chiesa di San Francesco della Vigna
All-star Venetian art showcase and Palla-
dio's first commission, down by Castello's boatyard docks. (
Click here
)
Chiesa di Santa Maria dei Miracoli
The little neighbourhood church with big
Renaissance ideas and priceless marble, amid a maze of canals. (
Click here
)
Museo di Storia Naturale
Dinosaurs, mummies and other bizarre scientific speci-
mens brought home by intrepid Venetian explorers - all inside a Turkish fortress.
(
Click here
)
Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta
Lambs bleat encouragement as you walk
through this overgrown island towards golden glory in apse mosaics. (
Click here
)
