“Venice is like eating an entire box of chocolate liqueurs in one go.” – Truman Capote
I spent only one day in Venice, yet the city captivates you from the moment you step within its enchanting borders. My journey through Italy was brief, consisting of a day in Venice, two days in Florence, and one whirlwind day in Rome. For those seeking a more extensive itinerary for Venice, refer to this post by Destination Dorworth. Venice possesses a unique allure marked by a haunting melancholy that invites exploration. It felt as though I had stumbled into a surreal world, reminiscent of the show Penny Dreadful. Upon arrival, crossing a bridge over the Grand Canal unveils some of the city’s most breathtaking views. However, once you traverse that bridge, you enter another realm entirely, enveloped by the city’s labyrinthine streets wherein one can easily lose themselves for hours.
Venice brims with charm, and my fascination was immediate. The Grand Canal and its exquisite gondolas are among the first sights that capture attention. While the gondolas are undeniably beautiful—albeit at a price of 100 Euros for a brief ride and a tourist attraction—it is worthwhile to photograph them and observe them momentarily before continuing your journey. To immerse yourself authentically in Venice, I recommend wandering the city, perusing local shops, sampling regional cuisine, and indulging in local wines. Resist the urge to succumb to preconceived notions of what Venice should be, lest you miss the genuine experience. The twisting streets serve as a maze that conceal remarkable shops, churches, and historical treasures. In hindsight, I wish I had devoted more time to exploring those hidden gems and indulging in delightful restaurants. My primary intention was merely to experience Venice once, should the day ever come when it may fade into the sea.
After much aimless wandering, we eventually arrived at the Piazza San Marco, a vibrant open space alive with the flutter of pigeons. Although I personally dread this aspect due to a significant fear of bird droppings, the Italian belief that it brings good luck persists. The piazza is surrounded by shops and restaurants, with San Marco’s Basilica standing as its majestic centerpiece. I highly advise visiting the basilica; despite long lines and the sweltering wait, the experience is well worth it. Situated by the water, the piazza benefits from a refreshing breeze. However, it is essential to note that bare arms are not permitted inside the basilica, so dressing appropriately is advisable.
The Basilica de San Marco is indeed an impressive architectural marvel; however, I would recommend the Basilica Maria Gloriousa as the must-see house of worship in Venice. This church stands out as one of the most intriguing and distinctive examples I have encountered. Despite not being particularly religious, I find that churches offer profound insights into a place’s history, especially in Italy. The art and sculptures housed within are among Venice’s finest. One particular monument that left a lasting impression on me was dedicated to Doge Giovanni Pesaro, featuring remarkable figures that are a must-see for any visitor. The monument portrays two bronze figures symbolizing death, supported by four slaves, creating an unforgettable scene. The palpable sense of defiance emanating from these sculptures was undoubtedly intentional. This church, constructed in the 1300s, remains one of the most memorable sites in Venice.
Unfortunately, our timing with meals was less than ideal. We found ourselves very hungry around 2 PM, which proved to be a poor choice on our part. In Italy, one must remember that many establishments observe a siesta, meaning lunch options significantly dwindle in the afternoon. After meandering back toward the Grand Canal, we finally located an open restaurant where we indulged in pizza once again. While Italy is renowned for its pizza, I believe that Naples is the true capital of this culinary delight. Thus, my preference leans towards enjoying pizza there, as other regions may not quite deliver the same exceptional experience.
Regrettably, one thing I did not do in Venice that still haunts me is purchasing a mask. While it may sound cliché, I encountered a stunning all-white mask priced at 20 Euros but ultimately chose to walk away. When visiting a city, especially one as unique as Venice, seizing the opportunity to acquire a keepsake is essential. Likewise, if you visit Murano, indulging in their exquisite glass-blowing creations is a must.
I aspire to return to Venice someday; however, my penchant for exploration often leads to a reluctance to revisit the same place. There exists a world of wonders awaiting discovery. Have you experienced Venice? What emotions did this captivating city evoke in you? I would love to hear your thoughts. Are you inclined to revisit places, or does the desire to experience as much as possible take precedence, leaving no room for redundancy?
