Venice and Beyond

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.

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.

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:

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:

This restaurant is located in Calle Lunga San Barnaba. The name, 'furatola' indicates an old shop where they once sold poor man's food. Food is still sold here today, but it's not for poor people anymore! This is an elegant restaurant which is mainly visited by fashionable Venetians and tourists looking for something refined. It is necessary to book. The cuisine is local, but has been reinterpreted in a creative way. The fish dishes are always very fresh and of excellent quality. The wine list is superb.

Description:

Hotel Rialto is a traditional Venetian property situated adjacent to the Rialto Bridge and within 500 metres from Saint Mark's Square. Contemporary guestrooms are decorated in a Venetian style and all come equipped with satellite television and minibars. Guests can sip cocktails in the hotel bar before sampling Italian specialties on the terrace of the hotel restaurant.

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:

From milky opalescent to crystal clear, all kinds of glass, including chandeliers, vases, glasses and mirrors, in various styles and forms are displayed at this museum. Visitors can also watch a glassworker in action. Be sure to visit the glass workshops and famous glass factories in Murano and buy a piece of authentic Murano glass. It is expensive, but it is also worth a lot, as the work of a master glassworker is extremely difficult. Admission to this museum is free.

Description:

The speciality here is 'murrine', glass jewels that are typical of Murano. The technique for making these consists of putting together slivers of multi-coloured glass, melting them down and then cutting them widthways in order to obtain the characteristic concentric circle design. The glass is then used to create extremely beautiful and precious pendants, table ornaments and more.

Description:

There is a silent and almost respectful ambience in this museum. Visitors enter by means of a staircase, originally built as a grand entrance to the Napoleonic royal palace. From here, the tour continues through neoclassical rooms, the Royal Palace, the Canoviana Collection, Venetian Civilization, Antique Art, and Renaissance Bronze. There are many sculptures by Canova and decorative objects by Francesco Hayez. Venezia by Jacopo De' Barbari can be admired in the entrance.

Description:

Both the pub and the surrounding area are quiet. This place is friendly, and popular with both locals and tourists. Speedy service. Good selection of classic pizzas and draft and bottled beers.

Description:

Hotel Rialto is a traditional Venetian property situated adjacent to the Rialto Bridge and within 500 metres from Saint Mark's Square. Contemporary guestrooms are decorated in a Venetian style and all come equipped with satellite television and minibars. Guests can sip cocktails in the hotel bar before sampling Italian specialties on the terrace of the hotel restaurant.

Our Local Expert Says:

A whole day could be spent in here if you are an art fan, each room is filled with something to see.

Description:

The Uffizi is one of the world's great museums, and the single best introduction to Renaissance painting, with works by Giotto, Masaccio, Paolo Uccello, Sandro Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, Perugino, Michelangelo, Raphael Sanzio, Titian, Caravaggio, and the list goes on. The museum is deceptively small. What looks like a small stretch of gallery space can easily gobble up half a day -- many rooms suffer the fate of containing nothing but masterpieces.

Know before you go that the Uffizi regularly shuts down rooms for crowd-control reasons -- especially in summer, when the bulk of the annual 1.5 million visitors stampedes the place. Of the more than 3,100 artworks in the museum's archives, only about 1,700 are on exhibit.

The painting gallery is housed in the structure built to serve as the offices ( uffizi is Florentine dialect for uffici, or "offices") of the Medici, commissioned by Cosimo I from Giorgio Vasari in 1560 -- perhaps his greatest architectural work. The painting gallery was started by Cosimo I as well and is now housed in the second-floor rooms that open off a long hall lined with ancient statues and frescoed with grotesques.

Tips for Seeing the Uffizi -- If you have the...

Our Local Expert Says:

The main room Cinquecento was designed a welcoming room with frescoes of Florentine victories on the walls.

Description:

The palazzo's construction began in 1299 and it was enlarged repeatedly - in 1343, 1495 and lastly in the 16th century by Vasari and Buontalenti. It has been the symbol and the political centre of the city for centuries. The Great room of the Cinquecento stands out, the work of Cronaca, it was designed as a reception area and decorated with frescoes celebrating Florentine victories against the other Tuscan cities and with sculptures depicting the deeds of Hercules by De Rossi. On the upper floors the Quarters of the elements are noteworthy as are those of Eleanor of Toledo who was the wife of Cosimo I and to whom the little chapel by Bronzino is dedicated. The Gigli room and the Audience room, which has a marble entrance, are sumptuous. On the Mezzanine there is the Loeser collection of painted sculptures. It is recommended that you visit the upper balcony where you can enjoy a fabulous view of Florence. In front of the museum, you'll find a copy of Michelangelo's David.

Description:

The Loggia dei Lanzi or Loggia della Signoria is a wide-open gallery of great works of art and sculpture. It brings together the piazza with the Uffizi Gallery flowing down into the Arno River. As the Florentines adored this masterpiece, Michelangelo suggested having loggia encompass the whole Piazza della Signoria. The artist or designer of the Loggia dei Lanzi was Orcagna. He built it between 1376 and 1382 when Benci di Cione and Simone Talenti took over. The name Loggia dei Lanzi came from the years the Grand Duke Cosimo I was in power, it was used to keep his Lanzichenecchi(Italian) or Landsknechts(German). Shortening it to Lanzi, these were German mercenary pikemen. As the Uffizi was nearly complete, the Loggia's roof was constructed as a terrace for the Medici so they could watch ceremonies in the piazza away from the peasants. The Loggia's roof was designed by Bernardo Buontalenti. Today, the sculptures of divine beauty that are located inside are Benvenuto Cellini's Perseus, Giambologna's Rape of the Sabine Woman and the Rape of Polyxena by Pio Fedi. Loggia dei Lanzi is gorgeous at night. Take a stroll after dinner... read more

Description:

Piazza del Duomo is one of the most famous landmarks in Florence. Truly an architectural piece of beauty, it encompasses the art and history of medieval Italy, through its sheer design. A visit to this city is not complete without visiting the piazza's cathedral 'Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore' whose dome dominates the skyline. It is no wonder that tourists are spellbound and spend hours trying to capture these images for eternity.

Description:

Although the Baptistery's precise origins remain unclear, its foundations are known to date back to Roman times. The central doors are stunning works of art, depicting scenes from the Old and New Testament and they have been called "The Gates of Paradise." Lorenzo Ghiberti who worked on them from 1403 to 1424 designed these ornate doors. Inside, the octagonal structure is richly decorated with Roman columns and gilded column heads. The floor's marble inlay features Islamic-style patterns and the apse is decorated with 13th-century mosaics. Coppo di Marcovaldo and Cimabue were among those involved in the cupola's decorative mosaic work.

Description:

Designed by Giotto, the bell tower to the right of Santa Maria del Fiore cathedral was begun by the artist in 1334 but continued by Andrea Pisano (who modified part of the design) following Giotto's death in 1337. Francesco Talenti finally completed it in 1359. Originally the tower was linked to the Duomo via a passageway situated at the level of the first cornice but this was demolished before 1437. Reliefs carved on the side where the passageway once existed are later works by Luca della Robbia; Andrea Pisano's original stone reliefs can be seen in the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo. The concepts of universal order and redemption are recurrent themes; hexagonal tiles on the tower's lower level (now replaced by copies) portray scenes from daily human life whilst diamond-shaped reliefs on the upper level illustrate more ethereal subjects in the form of the Planets, Virtue, Liberal Arts and the Sacraments. There's no lift, but climbing the 414 steps to the top of the 85m tower is well worth the effort!

Our Local Expert Says:

Respect the rules of not taking flash photography inside.

Description:

This tall structure halfway down Via dei Calzaiuoli looks more like a Gothic warehouse than a church -- which is exactly what it was, built as a granary/grain market in 1337. After a miraculous image of the Madonna appeared on a column inside, however, the lower level was turned into a chapel. The city's merchant guilds each undertook the task of decorating one of the outside nichelike Gothic tabernacles around the lower level with a statue of their guild's patron saint. Masters such as Ghiberti, Donatello, Verrocchio, and Giambologna all cast or carved masterpieces to set here. Since 1984, these have been removed and are being replaced by casts as the originals are slowly cleaned and exhibited up on the second story.

Unfortunately, the church now keeps erratic hours due to a lack of personnel, so there are no set opening hours; however, you may get lucky and find the doors thrown open when you pass by (or, though this may take even more luck, someone might actually answer the phone number below and give you details on when it will next open). Since it's pretty nifty, and there's a chance you'll be able to pop in, I'll go ahead and describe it all.

In the chapel's dark interior (emerged...

Description:

A restaurant offering traditional Puglian cuisine, with friendly, homey service. The Puglian specialties include orecchiette pasta with turnips, rice with potatoes and mussels, cabbage roulade and coq au vin blanc. For those stuck in Rome to have a taste of the deep south.

Our Local Expert Says:

Close to San Giovanni, this makes for a nice central point a bit out of the main tourist zone yet still easily accessible.

Description:

Housed in an early 19th century villa, this is a simple and uncomplicated hotel. The staff is efficient and courteous. Its location near Termini station and the Air Terminal is convenient for those arriving by train and for those relying on public transport. The rooms are comfortable and have all the essentials.

Our Local Expert Says:

The Spanish Steps area is the cobblestone equivalent to Fifth Avenue in New York City or Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, with upscale shops and expensive cafes. Every spring, the steps are covered with bright flowers.

Description:

An incredible, almost theatrical square with the lovely Spanish steps leading up to the Chiesa di Trinità dei Monti. One of the most important fashion shows is held here, the steps being used as a catwalk. It is now an international meeting point. The fountain known as the 'Barcaccia' (boat) was commissioned by Urbano Barberini to commemorate the alliance made with the King of France, whose coat of arms can be seen on Trinità dei Monti. The square leads into several famous streets, Via Dei Condotti, Via Frattina and Via Borgognona with their luxurious boutiques, and Via Del Babuino with its antique shops.

Description:

Tradition has it that throwing a coin over your left shoulder into the fountain guarantees a swift return to the world's most beautiful city. Anita Ekberg's dip in it was immortalized in Fellini's 'La Dolce Vita', and Italian actor Toto even sold it to an American, passing himself off as its owner. Earlier it was the setting for the award-winning "Three Coins in the Fountain" motion picture, ensuring its popularity worldwide. Designed by Nicola Salvi for Pope Clemente XII, it was completed in the second half of the 1700s. The statues in the centre represent Neptune supported by Tritons on either side while rococo-style Poli Palace provides the perfect backdrop.

Description:

This lovely fountain from the late 16th century was ordered by the Mattei family to Giacomo della Porta's design. The statues, on the other hand, are by Taddeo Landini. The turtles that gave their name to the fountain, the work of an anonymous sculptor, were added only a century later. Some think that their creator may even be Bernini, but the evidence is thin; it was perhaps one of his pupils, which would justify any similarities between this work and the work of the illustrious sculptor.

Description:

This national French church holds the tombs of many famous French people. Caravaggio is one artist who features in this beautiful Renaissance church. There is a wooden pulpit with painted panels, fairly unusual for Roman churches; the façade was carried out by Domenico Fontana following a design by Giacomo della Porta; San Luigi is immortalised in a fresco by Natoire, and Il Domenichino frescoed Santa Cecilia's chapel.

Our Local Expert Says:

All year round, this square is filled with artists, circus acts and puppet performers.

Description:

During the Christmas season this square is packed with stalls selling toys, sweets and decorations for the Nativity scene or Christmas tree, making it a favourite spot for children. Its unusual shape recalls the time of Domitian, who built a stadium for equestrian displays here. The Fountain of the Rivers, with the obelisk, and the Fountain of the Moor, with the god of the sea, at the centre of the square, are both by Bernini.

Description:

The Fountain of the Four Rivers is in the centre of Piazza Navona. It was built between 1648 and 1651 from marble and travertine by Bernini. The fountain represents a large rock, which seems to emerge from the water on which an Egyptian obelisk from the Roman era stands. The rock is inhabited by allegorical animals and plants and decorated with the coat of arms of the Pamphili family. Four large statues represent rivers of the then-known areas of the world: the Danube for Europe, the Ganges for Asia, the Rio de la Plata for America, and the Nile for Africa. The last is covering its eyes so as not to see the iniquities taking place before it in the square, the commerce practised by merchants and tradesmen.

Description:

This church was built in the first decade of the 17th century to pay homage to the founder of the Jesuit Order. The magnificent splendor of this chapel is typical of the period. Inside, you can admire the precious stones, gilding, marble and stucco work. For the frescoes they called upon the artist Andrea Pozzo, who designed the 'trompe l'oeil' effect ceiling featuring a cupola. A cupola was designed but never built, due to the proximity of the monastery of Dominican friars, as it would have blocked the light in their living quarters.

Description:

Commissioned by Marcus Agrippa, restored by Domitian, and subsequently rebuilt by Hadrian (who added the dome) before being turned into a church in the early 7th century by Pope Boniface IV. The building's sole source of light is the opening at the dome's apex (the oculus); according to popular legend, this formed the base for the bronze pinecone that is now in the Vatican's 'Pigna' courtyard, where it is used as a fountain. Many famous Italians are buried in the Pantheon, including Renaissance painter Raphael and King Vittorio Emanuele I.

Description:

Piazza della Minerva is just off Via della Minerva behind the Pantheon. The name of the church, Santa Maria sopra Minerva, was given by the church's position as it is believed it was built over the Roman temple dedicated to Minerva Calcidica. Work began on the church in 1280 but the façade was only completed in 1453. In fact this was meant to be temporary but it has remained unaltered despite many plans up until the 19th century to modify it. The interior is the only example of Gothic architecture in Rome. The 3 naves are crowned by cross vaults resting on marble pillars, but the most arresting sight is the decoration which is a true work of art. The chapels are decorated with frescoes and mosaics by artists like Melozzo da Forlì, Andrea Bregno, Verrocchio, Giuliano da Maiano, and Filippo Lippi but just as worthy are the statue of Christ Risen (also known as Christ the Redeemer) by Michelangelo who depicted Christ with the symbols of his martyrdom embracing the Cross, the funerary monuments of Popes Leo X and Clement VII by Antonio da Sangallo the Younger behind the altar, and the Tomb of Cardinal Domenico Pimentel designed by Bernini. The funerary monument and sarcophagus of St. Catherine... read more

Our Local Expert Says:

Piazza Campidoglio is where the city hall in Rome is located. All couples wishing to have a civil wedding ceremony must marry in the city hall.

Description:

Reorganisation of Piazza del Campidoglio began in 1539 as part of a plan undertaken by Pope Paul III. It was the first square created as part of a plan conceived by Michelangelo in which a space was created between Palazzo Senatorio and Palazzo dei Conservatori bounded by a new symmetrical building. The square is in the shape of a trapezoid with the Palazzo Senatorio on the longer side (the seat of the city council's administrative offices) and the Capitoline Museums on either side. Michelangelo also designed the monumental flight of steps that leads to the square on either side of which were the Dioscuri designed by Giacomo della Porta. Michelangelo also designed the pavement in the centre of which stands the equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius which survived the Middle Ages as it was thought that it represented the Emperor Constantine, the protector of the Christian religion.

Description:

No visit to Rome is complete without having seen its magnificent Colosseum, a vast amphitheatre with seating for 55,000 that was designed as a horse racing circuit and arena for animal fighting and gladiatorial battles. Upon its completion, spectacular 100-day celebrations were organized as part of the opening ceremony in 72 AD. Its name is believed to come from Nero's enormous statue of Colossus that stood close by.

Description:

People come by the millions each year to receive the Pope's blessing, traditionally given on Sundays at noon. St Peter's has undergone many transformations since the original Constantine basilica of AD320. The top of its majestic dome (designed by Michelangelo), provides the best vantage point from which to marvel at Bernini's magnificent colonnade surrounding the square, the gilded bronze canopy above the altar and Michelangelo's Pietà. Bramante, Pietro da Cortona and Canova are just a handful of the many other artists who worked together on this monumental basilica's decoration and design.

Description:

Hotel Rialto is a traditional Venetian property situated adjacent to the Rialto Bridge and within 500 metres from Saint Mark's Square. Contemporary guestrooms are decorated in a Venetian style and all come equipped with satellite television and minibars. Guests can sip cocktails in the hotel bar before sampling Italian specialties on the terrace of the hotel restaurant.

Description:

The only building on the San Giorgio Maggiore island, this church was built in 1566 AD. It is built inside a Benedictine monastery (that was erected in 1000 AD) in accordance with a plan by Andrea Palladio. The bright interior is covered with paintings by Carpaccio and Tintoretto, such as 'L'ultima Cena' and the 'Raccolta della Manna'. From the bell tower, there is a magnificent view of San Marco.

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.

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

Description:

This osteria is located in Calle del Magazzen near Santa Maria Formosa. Da Remigio is characterised by professional staff and good service. The menu features risottos, pasta dishes and appetizers made from fish from the lagoon and shellfish. The wine list is good, and offers a range of local and national varieties.

Description:

Hotel Rialto is a traditional Venetian property situated adjacent to the Rialto Bridge and within 500 metres from Saint Mark's Square. Contemporary guestrooms are decorated in a Venetian style and all come equipped with satellite television and minibars. Guests can sip cocktails in the hotel bar before sampling Italian specialties on the terrace of the hotel restaurant.

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:

The interior is classic Renaissance, built by Giorgio Spavento, Tullio Lombardo, and Sansovino between 1508 and 1534; the facade is 1663 baroque. It includes a pair of sculptures (Charity and Hope) by an elderly Jacopo Sansovino, who may also have designed the third altar, which supports one of the church's treasures, Titian's Annunciation (1556). Titian also painted the Transfiguration (1560) on the high altar. Ask the sacristan to lower the painting so that you can see the ornate 14th-century silver reredos (ornamental partition) hidden behind. In the right transept rests Bernardino Contino's tomb for Caterina Cornaro (d. 1510), the one-time queen of Cyprus who abdicated her throne to Venice and ended up with Asolo as a consolation prize.

Description:

This church was built by V. Scamozzi in the last 10 years of the 16th century. It houses paintings by Palma il Giovane and the Padovanino. Mass is held on a regular basis; call ahead for further details or drop in here for a day filled with prayers.

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 trattoria is located on the bridge which leads into Campo San Polo. Its name comes from the old tradition of serving chips on cocktail sticks accompanied by a glass of wine. Now Alla Patatina is a pretty trattoria. It is small and welcoming. It is worth a visit because of the quality of its food. It serves typical Venetian dishes such as meatballs, fried vegetables in breadcrumbs, and also pasta dishes. This can all be washed down with a glass of local red or white wine.

Description:

Hotel Rialto is a traditional Venetian property situated adjacent to the Rialto Bridge and within 500 metres from Saint Mark's Square. Contemporary guestrooms are decorated in a Venetian style and all come equipped with satellite television and minibars. Guests can sip cocktails in the hotel bar before sampling Italian specialties on the terrace of the hotel restaurant.

Description:

Built from Istria stone in the 17th century, this palace is characterized by three facades that are decorated with eagles, from which one can see the Canale Grande. Tiepolo painted a fresco on the walls and ceiling of the Salone to mark the occasion of a marriage of someone from the Labia family. This is now the headquarters of the Veneto region's RAI and can only be visited by appointment, on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday; call for details. Admission is free.

Description:

According to tradition, toward the middle of the 13th century, the son of the Doge Pietro, Marco Ziani, donated a vineyard to the Friars and the church was built here by Jacopo Sansovino 300 years later. The façade, commissioned by the patriarch of Aquileia, was later restored by Palladio. It seems that long before, on the same site, there was the church of San Marco, to commemorate the place where San Marco was met by an angel on his way back from Aquileia. The sober interior houses paintings by Veronesi and Bellini.

Description:

Due to its location adjacent to a hospital, this church is also known as the 'Ospedaleto'. Slightly obscured by the narrow street on which it stands, the beautiful building dates back to the 17th century. Designed by B. Longhena, it was paid for by B. Cagnoni. Inside are several paintings thought to be by Tiepolo.

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.

Description:

This restaurant is located in Salizada de Ca'Zusto, near Campo San Giacomo da L'Orio. The service is good, and this is a popular place. The specialities are fish dishes. The wine list is superb, with excellent reds, fruity whites, and prosecco.

Our Local Expert Says:

"You can see the hill town Fiesole and end of the Appennine Mountains from the Piazzale."

Description:

The vista which one can see the whole valley of Florence and of the surrounding hills is a must see. The climb up is rewarding, the view is breathtaking. There are buses available to take you to Piazzale Michelangelo. Tourists, tourist groups and tour buses all congregate at this panoramic view. Vendors set up early in the morning with cool beverages for the parched tourists and souvenirs for the eager shoppers. A sunset visit is for the romantics, bringing a wine bottle and gazing at the Florentine sky as it ends another day. There is never a bad time to visit Piazzale Michelangelo, there is always something to see from this height