What to do in Province of Venice

Think of Venice and the first place that comes to mind will almost certainly be St Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco). People have been flocking here to eat, drink, talk, worship and trade since the 10th century, and it remains a magnet for locals and visitors alike.

Winding through the ancient city like a glittering ribbon, the Grand Canal offers unrivalled views of Venice’s most famous sights. The waterway, with its colourful river craft carrying eager visitors past the majestic buildings that line its banks, is one of the best ways to experience the romance of La Serenissima.

The Rialto Bridge (Ponte di Rialto) spanning the Grand Canal is one of Venice’s most recognisable features, and has been wowing visitors since the 16th century, when it replaced an earlier structure. It was designed by Antonio Da Ponte (Antonio of the Bridge), who was awarded the contract in the face of stiff competition, not least from Italy’s most celebrated architect Michelangelo. On its completion it immediately won praise for its beautiful yet functional design, confounding the views of some rivals that its audacious engineering techniques were ahead of its time. The central arch of its revolutionary single span is high enough to allow ships to pass beneath, while its beautifully proportioned balustrades lend it an elegance that belies its sturdy construction.

The golden spires of St Mark’s Basilica (Basilica di San Marco) mark their unique profile on the Venetian skyline from all angles. Known locally as the Chiesa d’Oro (Church of Gold), this spectacular Byzantine church is one of the most recognisable sights of central Venice.

The Piazza Mazzini is a wide, open plaza with picturesque trees and fountains that help to keep you cool during the intense summer heat. Cafés, shops and hotels overlook this busy square, where bars and bright lights create a lively atmosphere at night.