By Athanasia Lampiri (A class)
1. See three major sights in one square
Standing in the middle of the magnificent piazza San Marco is an experience in itself: Napoleon referred to it as the ‘drawing room of Europe’, since it appears that much of Europe’s population is crammed into this great square. But it’s Basilica di San Marco, often seen as the living testimony of Venice’s links with Byzantium and Torre dell’Orologio, a clock tower, that are, not just the square’s, but some of the city’s main attractions.
2. Cool down with a delicious gelato
Most people agree that there is no gelato like Venice’s gelato. Be prepared to be patient though, because there’s always a huge crowd waiting to be served. But it’s worth the wait. These people are passionate about making ice-cream and experimenting with new flavours. How about trying flavours such as hazelnut or yoghurt, and even artichoke, asparagus and ginger?
3. Take a trip down the Grand Canal T
he best way to take in the Grand Canal is on board a vaporetto (Venice’s ubiquitous waterbus). The canal provides a superb introduction to the city, telling you more about the way Venice works.
4. Enjoy the Biennale in Venice
And, of course, the Venice Biennale is in full force. In 2015, an impressive 89 nations sent works by 136 artists to this, the worlds biggest and longest running artistic extravaganza which takes place every two years. Get involved and express your inner artsy side.
5. Get a bird’s-eye view of Venice
Enjoy the breathtaking view of Venice taking in the Lido, the whole lagoon and (on a clear day) the Dolomites in the distance.
6. Get a taste for true Venetian cuisine
Try traditional dishes from the Veneto (goose in its own fat) or freshwater lagoon fish and a strong selection of Venetian antipasti, including raw sea food.
7. Get around in a gondola
No trip to Venice would be complete without a punt down one of the city’s waterways in an iconic gondola.
Don’t forget to visit the Pontei dei Sospiri.
+1. Slip on a mask and enjoy the Carnevale
Carnevale, the world’s largest and most famous masked party, has existed since the Middle Ages, but it came into its own in the 18th century. Today, visitors go to piazza San Marco, where professional poseurs in ornate (and exorbitant) costumes occupy prime spots and wait for the world’s press photographers to immortalise them. Venetians, on the other hand, organise private masked and costumed celebrations, or gather in smaller squares.