Wander ancient narrow streets and glide along canals to experience the spectacular beauty of Venice City Center. This historic heart is filled with medieval palaces, churches and some of the floating city's most evocative landmarks.
Start your day with an espresso in a café on the St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco). This is the epicenter of Venice, a showpiece of gothic and renaissance architecture facing the sea. Many iconic sites are located here or nearby.
Be dazzled by the splendor of St. Mark's Basilica. This grand multi-domed church dominates the square and has a mixture of architectural styles, including Byzantine and Islamic. Inside is a treasure trove of gold and silver religious objects and extensive mosaics created over several centuries. Climb up its bell tower, the Campanile, which rises 323 feet (98 meters) above the square.
Explore the halls and lavishly decorated rooms of the Doge's Palace, adjacent to the basilica. This was the heart of Venetian political life for nearly 1,000 years, where nobles met to debate and pass laws.
Stay on St. Mark’s Square for the National Archeological Museum, which was founded in 1523 and features ancient Greek and Roman sculptures and artifacts.
Wander through the streets around the square, stopping off at jewelry stores and upscale designer boutiques selling luxury brands such as Gucci and Prada.
Go on a gondola ride under the Bridge of Sighs, an enclosed white limestone bridge connecting the Doge's Palace with the New Prison on the other side of a narrow canal. According to legend, prisoners looked out the bridge's windows and sighed as they enjoyed their last glimpse of Venetian beauty before being locked up.
Stay in Venice City Center at night for a performance at La Fenice. This internationally renowned opera house has staged world premieres of numerous operas, including Verdi'sLa Traviata, in 1853.
Travel to Venice City Center outside of the peak tourist season (between June and September) for smaller crowds and cooler temperatures. At any time of the year, however, it offers beauty, history and outstanding architecture.
