Holidays in Venice

Venice was once one of the world’s richest and most famous ports; protected from the Adriatic, the Venetian Lagoon provided an ideal location for trade and thrived because of it. Its unique landscape of turquoise waterways and iconic architecture sets it apart from any other location. One can easily and pleasantly get lost in winding alleyways and find themselves again in bustling squares or quiet piazzas. The city is approximately 1600 years old and is made up of around 180, mostly man-made islands; this has led to the city being nicknamed the “City of Bridges” due to having more than 400 bridges.

Enjoy your Holidays in Venice

Venice is one of the most iconic tourist destinations in Europe and for good reason too; Its Baroque architecture and aquatic streets make it a unique and fascinating adventure. On every one of its streets, one can see testaments to the wealth and opulence of the Venetian merchants that built the city. Book a holiday with Swiss Holidays to make the most of the stunning city of Venice and its vibrant history. .

Unforgettable places to visit in Venice

A visit to Venice is incomplete without surveying St Mark’s Square as it is home to some of Italy’s most stunning architecture such as St Mark’s Basilica; a treasure trove of religious relics including the body of St Mark himself. For a, less sobering experience, there are also a handful of cafes and restaurants around the perimeter of the square which are perfect for drinking a slow cup of Italian coffee, people watching and taking in the incredible venetian architecture. .

While exploring St Mark’s Square, it is hard to avoid one of the city’s great landmarks, the Doge's Palace. This Venetian gothic citadel used to be the seat of the republic’s power and was home to one of the most powerful men in the world, the Doge; but now it is now a museum that celebrates Venice’s achievements. Outside the Doge’s palace the iconic columns for Saint Mark and Saint Theodore form the traditional gateway of Venice. Look up and see the winged lion of Venice with Saint Mark, a symbol which you will see in every corner of the city. .

Explore some of Venice’s islands

The two islands of Murano and Burano are famous for the wares they sell and have become must-see destinations in their own right. In the 15th century, Venice moved all its glass makers over to the island of Murano for fear of a fire breaking loose and destroying the city and in the 16th century a fashion of making lace by hand put Burano on the map. Apart for the stunning wares that are sold on these islands, they are characterised by picturesque, vibrantly painted houses and shops that make for a photographer’s dream. .

Some of the best things to do in Venice

For many, one of the most important activities while on holiday in Venice is a gondola ride. There is no better way to explore the city’s waterways than on this aquatic transportation; especially when that includes the classic Italian serenade and insider information about the streets and buildings that can be seen during the journey. For a more frugal insight into Venice’s waterways, take a trip on a Vaporetti which is a kind of water bus that takes passengers along the main canals and between the city’s islands. .

Venice is host to a number of the country’s greatest museums and galleries which show everything from the typical dresses that were worn by the Venetian people to artwork collected by its inhabitants. The Mocenigo Palace for instance gives an insight into what life was like for a Venetian nobleman between the 17th and 18th century including 6 rooms that are specifically dedicated to perfume. Conversely, one can explore Peggy Guggenheim’s personal collection of modern art at the picturesque Palazzo Venier dei Leoni. .

A holiday to Venice will not only live up to expectations but it will also far surpass them, book with Swiss holidays to make the most out of your trip to Venice. .