Piazza San Marco

Pigeons and tourists flock to Piazza San Marco (St Mark’s Square) – the heart of Venice and the only place where you won’t feel lost. The magnificent Basilica di San Marco (St Mark’s Basilica) overlooks the impressive square.

Gondola ride

Haggle with the gondoliers for a good price then climb aboard for one of the most iconic Venetian experiences

Grand Canal and the Rialto Bridge

The Grand Canal is Venice’s Champs-Élysées. Cruise along the 3.5km long canal — which can vary from 40-100m wide — or cross over it using the iconic Rialto Bridge.

Burano

Home to the city’s lace industry, Burano is famous for its quaint fishing-village feel and its pastel-coloured buildings.

Murano

The glass-making industry was moved to Murano in the 13th century, because of the fire hazard it presented. Watch glass-makers in action in their shops and factories.

Campanile di San Marco

At 99m this bell tower, which oddly stands apart from the church itself, is the highest building around. Take the lift to the top for some amazing views.

Peggy Guggenheim Collection

When Peggy Guggenheim died in 1979 she left behind her personal collection of
20th century art. The Peggy Guggenheim Collection includes work from Picasso, Jackson Pollock and Salvador Dali.

Roam the back streets

The best way to experience Venice is just to wander the streets, crossing bridges when you come to them and getting lost in the process. Move away from the crowd of tourists — or wait until after dark when they are all asleep — to find your own way around this unique city.