The splendour of Basilica di San Marco, the romance of the Rialto and the timeless beauty of the Grand Canal-Venice is a city that never disappoints, immerse yourself in its culture with this smart and stylish guide to the jewel of the Adriatic.

The clap, clap of water thudding against the sides of the airport waterbus quickens as you head south from the mainland across the shimmering lagoon. In the distance rise the slender bell towers of Murano and, just beyond, Venice. Woven together like a fine piece of Burano lace from a myriad of islets, Venice still has the self-assured, almost quietly arrogant feel of the lO00-year merchant empire that was known as the Most Serene Republic and long dominated the eastern Mediterranean.

Introducing Venice

City Life

Arts & Architecture

History

Sestieri

Walking Tours

Eating

Entertainment

Shopping

Sleeping

Excursions

Directory

Language

Behind the Scenes

Index

Map Section