Carnevale

Description:

The San Clemente Palace building origins date back to 1131, the year in which the church was built. Not only will you enjoy the artistic and historical beauty of the hotel, but also the professionalism of the staff, with their excellent linguistic skills, enabling them to converse in varied European languages, as well as English. With the staff's awareness of the customs and needs of the diverse international clientele, you are sure to feel right at home, no matter what country you hail from. The San Clemente Palace is only minutes away via motorboat from Piazza San Marco celebrated in film, art, and literature, and location for most of Venice's major museums. For you incurable romantics, a peaceful gondola ride is the preferred way to partake of the grace of the city.

Our Local Expert Says:

A great moment to gain a higher perspective from winding through the maze of alleyways, climbing up the San Marco Campanile always brings a sense of freedom and new outlook on “the fish” that is Venice.

Description:

Located in the very same Piazza San Marco, for which it is named after, the San Marco Campanile, or St. Mark's Bell tower, soars 98.5 meters high with spectacular panoramic views of the orange rooftops of Venice and on a clear day, the snow-capped Alps seem at your very fingertips. After paying at the entrance, one of the biggest elevators you'll find in Italy (a normal sized elevator for Americans) swiftly brings you up the San Marco Campanile to the observatory area where wind speeds seem to increase exponentially. Originally constructed in 1173, the San Marco Campanile has had many varied functions throughout the years such as a lighthouse for incoming ships on the lagoon, a means of tying up prisoners for torture during Medieval times, and an observatory for Galileo to demonstrate his telescope in 1609. After suddenly collapsing in 1902, the San Marco Campanile was reconstructed from its remaining base, a collection of marble sculpted storyboards called La Loggetta, and has been firmly standing since its re-inauguration in 1912.

Our Local Expert Says:

The Basilica di San Marco is definitely the main event of Venice, so a complete tour is highly recommended to soak up all of the fun stories tied to the beautiful Basilica di San Marco.

Description:

Even before arriving in front of the Byzantine styled Basilica di San Marco, her many magnificent domes can be seen from afar announcing their presence and status in Venice. The story goes, that the remains of St. Mark were brought, or stolen - depending on your point of view, by the Venetians from Alexandria to rest in this elaborate burial place back in the 9th century. On closer observation, you will notice not all of the columns on the Basilica di San Marco are the same (some green marble, others not) due to trading with incoming merchants for the materials to build and decorate this amazing edifice. History throughout the centuries is woven into the world-wide known Basilica di San Marco, including the originally looted Bronze horses being stolen by Napoleon, and then returned again in 1815.

Description:

It is not known for certain who made the mid-14th-century Golden Altar Piece. It is a masterpiece of engraving that uses Byzantine ancient enamels, which originate from the pillage of Byzantium in 1204. The Treasure of San Marco should not be missed. A large part was melted down to mint money, but what remains can satisfy the curiosity of even the most demanding visitor, from an artistic and historic point of view. It can be accessed directly from the basilica.

Our Local Expert Says:

The real question is whether there are more people or pigeons in this lively square. Stands are available to buy feed for these overly friendly birds, which can be a fun experience for kid and adult alike. However, for the more romantic side of this charming piazza, come at night and listen to the bands and orchestra's lining the sides. You have the option to bring your own dance partner or find one there!

Description:

Encased in a trapezoidal shape by the Basilica di San Marco, the Palazzo Ducale , Museo Correr, and the Torre dell'Orologio, your first view of the breathtaking Piazza San Marco will never be forgotten. Popular with photo snapping tourists and children chasing and feeding the pigeons, Piazza San Marco, or St. Mark's Square, is the biggest (at 175 meters long) and liveliest square in the center of Venice. Expensive restaurants and shops line this square which hosts many of the city's festivals (Carnival in February, for one) and concerts. Also enclosed within the square is the San Marco Campanile with the Palazzo dei Prigioni and the Bridge of Sighs just a few steps away. As one of the main attractions of Venice, it is not to be missed! Basilica di San Marco

Our Local Expert Says:

For many Venetians the Rialto Bridge means they’ve almost made it to San Marco square, as there are a few short cuts, known well by locals, from the Rialto straight through the winding alleyways to Campo San Marco.

Description:

Ponte di Rialto is Venice's most famous bridge arching over the Grande Canal, known as a commercial area of the city with the busy Rialto Market nearby, filled with bright colored fruits, vegetables and fish (only open in the morning), and souvenir shops lined up and down the bridge itself. After its construction in 1591, the Rialto Bridge remained as the only bridge connecting the two sides of "the fish" called Venice for almost 300 years. The Ponte di Rialto is perfect for shopping or strolling along with gelato in hand while gazing off the bridge at the passing gondoliers and boats, and postcard perfect shots of the orange buildings & green water against the pink sky at sunset.

Description:

Situated at the foot of the Megio Bridge, this place has few tables, but its size only adds to its charm.

Our Local Expert Says:

The current Palazzo Ducale is not the original built back in the Middle Ages (10th Century), in fact it has been destroyed many times including the fire of 1106.

Description:

Located next to the Basilica di San Marco, the Doge's Palace has been the symbol of Venice's political life and public administration for hundreds of years. The building has been continuously evolving into its present form since 1340, even though its fundations date back to the early Middle Ages (10th century). Considered a masterpiece of the gothic style, it has been destroyed many times, most notably during the fire of 1106. It was rebuilt by Barbarossa in 1177 and modified over the time by the different Dogi reigning in Venice. More than a palace, the Palazzo Ducale is an extensive infrastructure, comprising the apartments of the doge (often used as an exhibition space), the government quarters and the palace of justice. When visiting the palace, many parts are worth the detour. In the Museo dell'Opera, you'll see the remaining pieces of the building's medieval facades as well as a collection of sculptures dating from the 14th and 15th Centuries. Before heading towards the Doge's appartments, you'll enter the magnificent courtyard. Take some time to walk alongside the Loggias to enjoy the various angles of the Palazzo. In addition to the Institutional Chambers and the Prisons, take... read more

Our Local Expert Says:

The Bridge of Sighs can be photographed from the bridge along the waterfront near Piazza San Marco, but beware that many tourists push up to that bridge for their postcard perfect picture. It’s best to come very early in the morning for less struggle to get your perfect picture!

Description:

Legends, passions, hopes and despair form the emotional history of the ever famous Ponte dei Sospiri, or Bridge of Sighs, a must see for every visitor to Venice. Connecting the Palazzo delle Prigioni (Palazzo of the Prisoners) and the Palazzo Ducale (Doge's Palace), the Bridge of Sighs is where prisoners going from their trial and conviction in the Doge's Palace, would look across the bridge at their last glimpse of freedom before entering the prison and let out a sigh. Over the years it has gained a more hopeful out look being known as the bridge where if two lovers kiss under it, most likely in a romantic gondola, their love will last. To "walk the last walk" over the Bridge of Sighs, you will need to take a tour of the Palazzo Ducale or Palazzo delle Prigioni.

Description:

This massive Gothic church was built by the Dominican order from the 13th to the 15th century and, together with the Frari Church in San Polo, is second in size only to the Basilica di San Marco. An unofficial Pantheon where 25 doges are buried (a number of tombs are part of the unfinished facade), the church, commonly known as Zanipolo in Venetian dialect, is also home to a number of artistic treasures.

Visit the Cappella del Rosario through a glass door off the left transept to see the three recently restored ceiling canvases by Paolo Veronese, particularly The Assumption of the Madonna. Also recently restored is the brilliantly colored Polyptych of St. Vincent Ferrer (ca. 1465) attributed to a young Giovanni Bellini, in the right aisle. You'll also see the foot of St. Catherine of Siena encased in glass.

Anchoring the large and impressive campo, a popular crossroads for this area of Castello, is the statue of Bartolomeo Colleoni, the Renaissance condottiere who defended Venice's interests at the height of its power and until his death in 1475. The 15th-century work is by the Florentine Andrea Verrocchio; it is considered one of the world's great equestrian monuments and Verrocchio's...

Description:

Located just a few minutes walk from the Arsenale, the whole history of the Venetian Republic and the Italian Navy is explained here through models and exhibits. Canons, prints, period gondolas and nautical instruments, such as compasses are on display. There is also a section dedicated to the history of the Italian Navy with flags, uniforms and military and civil model ships. Some of the pieces date from the 18th century but most are from the 19th century.

Description:

This is a city within a city. The quickest way to see it all is to take the motorboat to the stop outside the naval history museum (to Arsenale) and head towards 'Fondamente Nuove'. At present, there is little to see: partly because the large docks are walled off and partly because as they have been partially abandoned, it will appear to an untrained eye as though there is nothing to see. The area used to be very technologically advanced - it was here that the whole of the Mediterranean was instructed in modern methods of shipbuilding. Note the marble lions that guard the entrance: they were brought here from Pyrius in 1687.

Our Local Expert Says:

Sneak a peak at the mutant face looming over the back door of this church dedicated to curvaceous women - Venice's Hunchback!

Description:

This church was rebuilt at the end of the 15th century, in accordance with a plan by Codussi. It is believed to be one of the churches that was originally commissioned by the Bishop of Oderzo in the 7th century.

Our Local Expert Says:

Acclaimed as one of the best restaurants in Venice.

Description:

Ai Gondolieri is an old but famous restaurant that specializes in serving up delicious Venetian dishes. The service is attentive and the dining rooms are large. The dishes are all meat based, and game is a specialty. You can also take your pick from their assortment of seasonal, fresh fruits as you enjoy the delicate flavors of their fish. The wine list, that includes both national and local varieties, is a perfect complement to their delectable fare. you can also avail of their catering services that can serve up to 2000 people. Ai Gondolieri is closed on Tuesdays. Check website for details.

Description:

The San Clemente Palace building origins date back to 1131, the year in which the church was built. Not only will you enjoy the artistic and historical beauty of the hotel, but also the professionalism of the staff, with their excellent linguistic skills, enabling them to converse in varied European languages, as well as English. With the staff's awareness of the customs and needs of the diverse international clientele, you are sure to feel right at home, no matter what country you hail from. The San Clemente Palace is only minutes away via motorboat from Piazza San Marco celebrated in film, art, and literature, and location for most of Venice's major museums. For you incurable romantics, a peaceful gondola ride is the preferred way to partake of the grace of the city.

Our Local Expert Says:

Paying less than at the more famous Campanile di San Marco to climb up and take amazing aerial shots of the rust colored rooftops, the Campanile di San Giorgio offers significantly less crowds and even more breathtaking vistas.

Description:

Sometimes confused at a distance for the Campanile di San Marco, on the little island across the way from Piazza San Marco lies the Campanile di San Giorgio on the island of San Giorgio Maggiore. Attached to the Benedictine Covenant Church, the San Giorgio bell tower has spectacular views of Venice and more specifically San Marco. Inside the Church of San Giorgio, paintings by Manna diTintoretto (The Last Supper and The Harvest), Carpaccio and Tintoretto fill the walls with more eye catching splendor. During the annual Festa del Redentore (Celebration of the Redeemer), fireworks are launched from the island of San Giorgio Maggiore above the Campanile di San Giorgio, as a spectacle for the plentiful crowds of firework gazers across the way in San Marco Square and the nearby boardwalks.

Description:

It is a shame that tables, chairs and food stalls block the view of San Giovanni Cristostomo. Built by M. Codussi at the beginning of the 16th century, it was bombed by the Austrians in 1918. It is in the shape of a cross and several pillars hold 4 arches and a dome. The remarkable altarpiece by Bellini is dedicated to San Cristoforo, San Girolamo and Sant'Agostino, not less remarkable is the one dedicated to San Giovanni Battista Liberale, Maria Maddalena, Agnese, Caterina, by S.del Piombo.

Description:

If you get lost in the Rialto market, ask someone from San Giacometo for directions. Above the tribunal, near the main entrance, is an extraordinary 24-hour clock and the original porch.

Our Local Expert Says:

A favorite among many, the Santa Maria della Salute is truly stunning and elegant with its octagonal design and prominent location at the tip of the island as it looms over the water.

Description:

Having been constructed at the end of the Plague in1630, la Chiesa di Santa Maria della Salute, the Church of St. Mary of Health, was built as a sign of thanksgiving for lifting the plague off the city of Venice. A beautiful octagonal shaped interior adorned with paintings such as Tintoretto's "Le Nozze di Cana" and particularly ornate marble-work coincides harmoniously with the elegant rising exterior of this handsome baroque church designed by Baldassare Longhena. The Santa Maria della Salute participates annually in the traditional Festa del Redentore (usually held the third Saturday in July), as a bridge of boats is temporarily constructed across the canal from the Santa Maria della Salute to the Chiesa del Redentore. Located at the opening of the Grande Canal, and just across the canal from Piazza San Marco, the Santa Maria della Salute seems to stand on her own but not far down the alleyways are the Peggy Guggenheim Museum and the Galleria dell'Accademia.

Our Local Expert Says:

If you're looking to visit many of the churches in Venice, ask about the discounted Chorus Pass for EUR8, or EUR5 if you have a Venice Card. For a list of the included churches visit: www.chorusvenezia.org.

Description:

San Polo and Santa Margherita are the largest piazzas in Venice. Coming from San Toma the church is barely visible and the bell tower, detached from the building, is visible from the other side of the 3m-wide street. In the oratory hangs 'Via Crucis' by Tiepolo.

Description:

This is the most popular piano bar in the city. The clientele here are chic. Come during the day for a coffee or a glass of wine; in the evening the restaurant has good live music, especially funk and jazz. The menu includes traditional dishes such as fish, pasta, vegetables, Venetian style liver, and seafood, accompanied by excellent wines.

Description:

The San Clemente Palace building origins date back to 1131, the year in which the church was built. Not only will you enjoy the artistic and historical beauty of the hotel, but also the professionalism of the staff, with their excellent linguistic skills, enabling them to converse in varied European languages, as well as English. With the staff's awareness of the customs and needs of the diverse international clientele, you are sure to feel right at home, no matter what country you hail from. The San Clemente Palace is only minutes away via motorboat from Piazza San Marco celebrated in film, art, and literature, and location for most of Venice's major museums. For you incurable romantics, a peaceful gondola ride is the preferred way to partake of the grace of the city.

Our Local Expert Says:

Between four and six in the evening, in the square just on the other side of all the lace shops in the center of town, get ready for the animated local Venetian kids to come out and play, kicking the ball around and playing ‘till dinner.

Description:

The 40 minute boat ride to reach the fairytale island of Burano is all worth it when walking through the brightly colored blue, purple, green and pink houses and calm canals lined with rowboats. Burano is most known for the exquisite hand-made lace which adorns many of the shops at the heart of the island, and at times one can watch the masters at work inside the small stores. How those little old Venetian ladies produce such intricate masterpieces, one will never know! The restaurants and bakeries of Burano make the visit to this island complete, when stopping off for a quick snack ask for the Bussolai (pronounced: boos-ohl-eye) fresh out of the oven which also come with a dipping wine specifically used for these tasty cookies specific to the island. (Although the friendly Burano waiters will probably recommend this unique item before you even ask.)

Our Local Expert Says:

Well known glass blower, Cenedese, constructed a life sized Christmas tree made entirely of glass for the island of Murano. Each branch of the tree is done in different colors, as opposed to solid green, to represent the colored houses of Murano. The tree is on display most of the year in Murano, and during Christmas time near Piazza San Marco in Venice.

Description:

The skilled Glass Blowers are the founders of this fair sized island called Murano. In 1291, the furnaces were moved off of the main island to Murano in case they ever caught fire, making sure the main city of Venice would still be preserved. To this day, Murano is still known for the beautiful glass works of art, with many stores allowing tours and on-looking crowds to watch the intense production of these delicate pieces. Many quaint restaurants and shops line the quiet streets of Murano, located just a short 15 minute boat ride from Venice.

Description:

An outsider, yet close to the heart of most Venetians, the Chiesa di San Michele is located on the island of San Michele, not 5 minutes from the city. Designed by the architect Mauro Codussi and completed sometime in the second half of the 11th century, the church is built in white Istrian stone, a complete contrast to the colors of Venice. Most of the visitors to the island are mourners of those buried in the cemetery. Not many visitors crowd the island, but if you do happen to visit the church and thecemetery, try not to get shutter-happy with your camera and leave a rose or two for the departed.

Our Local Expert Says:

An amazing journey through the progression of the arts plainly illustrated and laid out in the Galleria dell’Accademia. Even the not-so-artsy type will enjoy the evolution of artistic expression.

Description:

Containing the world's finest collection of Venetian paintings, the Galleria dell' Accademia houses works of art by Mantegna, Bellini, Carpaccio, Titian, Tintoretto, Veronese, Tiepolo and Canaletto - arranged for the most part in chronological order from room to room. A sophisticated tour through Byzantine, Gothic, Pre-Renaissance, High Renaissance, and Baroque art, the Galleria dell'Accademia is easily reached by crossing over the wooden Academia Bridge, having been named after the Galleria itself, residing on the Grande Canal.

Description:

This old pizzeria is located near the Campo San Cassiano Bridge. In the summer tables are set under a pergola of wisteria. Frequented by Venetians on their lunch break, this pizzeria is also popular with tourists. Reasonably priced pizzas and traditional Venetian dishes. The drinks list includes bottled or draft beer and good local wines.

Description:

The San Clemente Palace building origins date back to 1131, the year in which the church was built. Not only will you enjoy the artistic and historical beauty of the hotel, but also the professionalism of the staff, with their excellent linguistic skills, enabling them to converse in varied European languages, as well as English. With the staff's awareness of the customs and needs of the diverse international clientele, you are sure to feel right at home, no matter what country you hail from. The San Clemente Palace is only minutes away via motorboat from Piazza San Marco celebrated in film, art, and literature, and location for most of Venice's major museums. For you incurable romantics, a peaceful gondola ride is the preferred way to partake of the grace of the city.

Description:

Located in Ca'Rezzonico, this was the last building planned by Baldassare Longhena. The interior is a reconstruction of an 18th-century palace, with original restored furnishings. The Venetian decor is splendid, particularly in the ballroom with its stunning trompe l'oeil, and the nuptial room, which has richly decorated dressing tables. Both, the beautiful furnishings as well as the many works of art are worth checking out. There are frescoes by Tiepolo and paintings by Guardi, Canaletto and Longhi. T

Our Local Expert Says:

If you're looking to visit many of the churches in Venice, ask about the discounted Chorus Pass for EUR8, or EUR5 if you have a Venice Card. For a list of the included churches visit: www.chorusvenezia.org.

Description:

This 17th century church was built with the co-operation and the imagination of Massari, Morlaiter and Tiepolo. The interior is very bright and has only one Nave, with three chapels and sculptures by Morlaiter and a unique harmony between the architecture, sculpture, painting and wooden furniture. Beside the third altar is Tintoretto's 'Crocifissione', and in the first altar Tiepolo's 'Tre Sante'. The ceiling is divided into three parts and decorated with paintings by Tiepolo. They represent the life of San Domenico and the Institution of the Rosario.

Our Local Expert Says:

If you're looking to visit many of the churches in Venice, ask about the discounted Chorus Pass for EUR8, or EUR5 if you have a Venice Card. For a list of the included churches visit: www.chorusvenezia.org.

Description:

For a long time it was thought that the Orio referred to the Orient, but in fact it refers to the laurel plant, which used to grow in the area. The church, which dates back to the 9th century, has its original Gothic ceiling and contains works by Palmo il Giovane and Veronese. It has been restored several times.

Our Local Expert Says:

If you're looking to visit many of the churches in Venice, ask about the discounted Chorus Pass for EUR8, or EUR5 if you have a Venice Card. For a list of the included churches visit: www.chorusvenezia.org.

Description:

A short walk from the Fenice theatre and Gritti's residence stands this luxury hotel. The Gothic façade, recently restored to its original splendor, is adorned with 4 statues representing the Barbero family. On the lower part of the façade there are maps of fortresses and inside are paintings by Tintoretto and Rubens.