Some cities seem to have it all. Or as my friend Christine said: “It’s unfair, Venice has too much.”
An incredible event in Venice is the “Biennale Arte”, a curated artshow dubbed “the Olympics of Art” going back to its inauguration in 1895. Happening every two years. The disused naval military facility Arsenale is one of the spectacular venues with further sites using the backdrop of the historic city as presentation canvas. One would think that this uniqueness is already plenty, no, there’s a plethora of art and other cultural, historical and social highlights one can experience.
My favourite area to stay is the “Castello” district, a rather laid-back and authentic part of Venice tucked away from the touristy crowds of St. Mark’s Square, yet it is central! Exploring the picturesque streets of Venice is certainly a pleasure, then you could spend your time visiting spectacular art locations like the Peggy Guggenheim Museum, or embarking on a different experience like cycling the Lido, or having a drink at the Cipriani Hotel on the Guidecca island (a Venice add-on which is popular with students and young professionals for its informal eateries overlooking the lagoon). Or you could check out Murano. Or the San Michele Cemetery Island where the remains of Igor Stravinsky, Jean Schlumberger (Tiffany & Co), and such are resting. I implore you to read the story of the there buried Princess Catherine Bagration, “the Wandering Princess”, known for her beauty, love affairs and unconventional behaviour. You won’t be disappointed. I have dedicated a separate essay to her!
Last word of warning:
- Avoid touristy stuff like the Gritti Palace (full of unwanted pigeons). It will spoil your experience.
- Floods between October through January (the “high water season”) are expected
- It could be unpleasantly hot and busy during July and August
Some stats:
- Affordable flights starting @ £44 (June 2019)
- Plentiful choice of accommodation (our Airbnb @ Castello was a gorgeous 3-double bed flat @ £50/per person per night)
- Public Transports on the water by Alilaguna (airport public transfers @ EUR 27/return)
- and of course please use the Vaporetto, the Venetian water “tube” system, it’s low-cost compared to the individual water taxi
I had an amazing time in Venice. People, what are you waiting for?