Venice is renowned for its rich history and significant cultural impact on the world. Throughout its history, Venice has consistently ebbed and flowed to the changing powers of the world. From the Germanic and the Hun invasions to the might of the Ottomans, many nations have impacted the culture of Venice and left a lasting impression on the people and their traditions. Arranging a tour through your personal travel manager is the best way to ensure you are able to absorb as much of Venice’s rich history as possible.
While Venice has carved a niche for itself as a top tourist destination there isn’t a lot of information about how Venice actually formed. The information available has led many historians to believe that Venice was founded by refugees from Roman cities such as; Padua, Aquileia, Treviso and Altino. This mix of cultures has helped shape Venice into the city that is now renowned the world over. Venice has impressed the world to such a great extent that the English named an inlet of Regents Canal in London ‘Little Venice’.
Venice has six sestieri districts that make up the large island city. The districts of San Marco, Cannaregio, Castello, Dorsoduro, San Polo and Santa Croce all combine to create the city of Venice. Whilst being isolated from one another by water, all of the sestieris are in walking distance of each other. For travellers unsure of where to stay, Santa Croce is the most accessible region with a great network of buses and trains connecting the city. It’s also a leisurely 20 minute walk to Piazza San Marco – a premier tourist destination.
Getting lost walking the streets of Venice isn’t necessarily a bad thing. With so much history and cultures combining into the one city, there is always something to see. If you do happen to find yourself off the beaten track, relax and take in the beauty of the buildings, the family run restaurants, live music and glass blowing demonstrations. It’s also a great way to buy some breathtaking venetian glass as a keepsake or a gift for the jealous family and friends back home.
A trip to Venice wouldn’t be complete without a Gondola ride. While you can choose to take a Vaporetti, the modern and cheaper form of water transport – a Gondola ride will take you to the peaceful back areas of the canal away from the Grand Canal and San Marco. An alternative is taking a Gondola known as the Traghetti across the Grand Canal. This is 35 minutes shorter than a standard ride and significantly cheaper.
After a day of exploring Venice, a well deserved drink is in order and thankfully Venice serves a myriad of delicious Prosecco based cocktails. You may have heard of Bellini’s and Aperol Spritzes, but heading to a restaurant and ordering a Sgroppino is an experience in itself. Sgroppinos are made with just the right blend of Prosecco, vodka and lemon sorbet and are perfect as an aperitif or dessert.
Start creating your Venice itinerary today with your local, personal travel manager http://www.travelmanagers.com.au/ptm-search/