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Venice is unique, a city of canals instead of roads. The Doge, an elected leader of Venice, ruled a powerful empire which dominated the eastern Mediterranean for several centuries. The Venetians even succeeded in stealing the relics of St. Mark the Evangelist from Egypt and then built a new Basilica to house them in 832AD. In the Dolomite mountains you will find German food and language mingling with the Italian culture. In the towns of Padua, Vicenza and Verona there is wonderful architecture to be admired.
Gondola building yard, Venice |
Venice. Start with a trip down the Grand Canal to get the feel of the city. Visit the Doge's Palace, the Basilica of San Marco and have a drink in one of the cafes in the Piazza di San Marco. Allow time to visit the Accademia art gallery and to take a boat trip to Murano where craftsmen blow glass. Visit the Scuola San Rocco to see the Tintoretto paintings. Take an unforgettable evening ride in a gondola.
Padua. Admire the Scrovegni Chapel which is a masterpiece decorated by Giotto in 1305 with scenes from the life of Christ. See the Basilica of St. Anthony of Padua, where pilgrims have left tokens of gratitude.
The Brenta Canal. Visit some of the lovely villas along the canal, especially the Villa Foscari built by Palladio in 1560.
Vicenza. Visit Europe's oldest surviving indoor theatre designed by Andrea Palladio in 1579.
Verona. Colonized by the Romans in 89BC. The Arena was built by the Romans in 30AD, and is still used for opera performances today. Dante lived here 1301. Shop at the market in Piazza Erbe or visit Juliet's house. Also known for its vineyards.
Lake Garda. The largest of the Italian lakes and a favourite summer playground.
The Dolomites. A winter sports paradise with stunning scenery in winter or summer. A distinctive landscape of craggy limestone peaks.
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