An Ancient, Floating Lagoon Abounding in Exquisite Architecture and Gondola Rides
A Photographic Escape To Venice, Italy
Let’s celebrate the shared spirit of wanderlust that unites us all by exploring the world with me, one adventure at a time.
This time I’ll take you on a trip to Venice — the city of canals and ancient bridges. A romantic place reminiscent of Shakespeare’s famous comic play the ‘Merchant of Venice’ that was set here.
Arriving at the train station from Rome, and stepping outside, the sight of the aquamarine waterways, golden sunshine, and clear, blue skies took my breath away.
Culminating in the pleasure of traveling to our hotel by a speed boat, an entirely new experience for me. Later, I had the same experience in the Maldives.
HISTORICAL SITES IN VENICE
The second most stunning feature of Venice is its grand architecture and well-preserved history. Let’s take a peek into what it was like.
The central or the main hub of the floating city is St. Mark’s Square. It has the famous 11th-century church St. Mark’s Basilica and the exquisite Doge’s Palace. This place is forever buzzing with tourists, especially at its numerous eateries and shops.
Venice abounds in natural stone bridges and Gothic structures giving it a Medieval vibe. The labyrinth maze of cobbled alleys are intriguing indeed, and can easily make tourists lose their way around.
We faced one such incident in the night while returning from sightseeing, but managed to find our way after a while. Street lighting was poor and it was very dark. Therefore, it is advisable, as per my personal experience, not to remain outdoors very late in the night if you are not familiar with the place.
The Famous Gondola Ride — Glimpsing Venice’s Hidden Beauty
Taking a leisurely gondola ride on the expansive waterways that merge with the Adriatic Sea, is a must-do activity in Venice. A timeless tradition of love, romance, and adventure!
It is admirable to watch how the skilled gondola drivers maneuver their way through meandering canals, occasionally gliding precariously, beneath low ancient bridges! Enthralling guests with their rustic charm, wearing traditional outfits, including the typical hat, and jovially humming a local tune in between.
Their commentary on the historical and cultural significance of Venice adds value and is informative.
It is an exhilarating experience, with tourists awestruck by magnificent medieval structures, artistic churches, and heritage buildings situated on both sides of gleaming, flowing canals. Additionally, you also witness that part of Venice that is run down and dilapidated.
One of the to-do activities during the gondola tour is to halt at the beautiful Rialto Bridge (a well-known landmark), to gaze at the views around and click photographs.
It is said that Venice is a place that is sinking due to climate change and environmental hazards. Hope this disaster is prevented from happening and something is done about it soon.
Apart from Italian food, we tried a whole range of seafood, including fried octopus and squids (also known as calamari). Though considered a delicacy, I didn’t find it much. Probably you need to develop a taste for that!
Island Hopping Tour
Not to be missed when in Venice is a tour to two popular islands close by Murano and Burano. Regular boat services are available to ferry tourists.
Infact, ferry or water taxis are a common mode of transportation for the general public in Venice and are fun as well.
Murano is well known for its glass-making factories. Tourists are allowed to see the interesting glass-making process and purchase beautiful souvenirs from here. We were also a part of that.
Burano comprises rows of beautiful, colorful houses and is known for lace making.
