From the landing stage in Punta Sabbioni, we take a regular ferry across the lagoon to Venice. The crossing takes about half an hour.
Right at the beginning of the ride, we pass one of the three huge barrages that will protect the lagoon in the future from flooding. Two of the three barrages seem to be working already, the third is obviously still having problems, which hopefully can be eliminated soon.
Behind it is the Forte di Sant’Andrea, a 16th-century fortress. Here, Giacomo Casanova was incarcerated for a few months.
We have a beautiful view of the silhouette of Venice in front of us. First, the island of San Giorgio Maggiore with the monastery of the same name comes into sight. In the background is the church of Santa Maria della Salute, built in 1630, with the request to end the plague.
On the right is the church of Santa Maria della Pietà.On its façade, a huge poster announces the biennial that is taking place. A few meters further on, we see the Doge’s Palace, the National Library and, behind it, the Markus Tower.
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More InformationSince the ninth century, the Doge’s Palace has been the seat of the doge and the governing and judicial organs of the Republic of Venice.
Upon arrival by ferry, the canals with their bridges and gondolas quickly captivate us. Of course, the Bridge of Sighs, which connected the Doge’s Palace with the new prison.
At the entrance to St. Mark’s Square rise the two pillars of San Marco and San Teodoro. The pillar San Marco, which faces the Doge’s Palace, carries the Venetian lion, since 862, the patron saint and symbol of the Venetian state.
The huge St. Mark’s Square, framed by the museums and St. Mark’s Church, is, as expected, crowded with tourists. During the day we noticed that tourists are crowding between St. Mark’s Square and Rialto Bridge. But as soon as you take a few steps into a side street, you are almost alone.
We experienced the city 25 years ago and do not have the feeling that it has got much worse (see also the photos on our website).
We leave the square through the gate of the clock tower. The dial of his huge clock is made of lapis lazuli.
Immediately we dive into the narrow lanes that convey a medieval atmosphere. We like the shops with the Venetian masks and the glass objects made of Murano glass.
On the way we see porters with special wheelbarrows which can overcome the stairs to the bridges.
Through narrow alleys, small squares, bridges, and canals we arrive at the Rialto Bridge.
For a while, we watch the bustle on and off the bridge, which offers a good view. Always fascinating to see, how tourists pose in front of the bridge. The Selfie generation sends its regards.
Tip
Right next to the Rialto Bridge is a big white building, the luxury department store Fondaco dei Tedeschi. On its roof is a viewing platform with a great view of Venice.
Admission is free, but there may be queues, as there can only be a limited number of people on the platform. But you can pre-book for free via the Internet and so bypass the queues. For reservation see T Fondaco Rooftop Terrace.
If we were fascinated by the view over Venice outside the building, we are now fascinated by the inside. The huge inner courtyard conveys the feeling of exclusiveness.
On our way to the Jewish Ghetto, we find a very interesting chocolate shop. In Salizada San Giovanni Grisostomo is a new branch of Nino & Friends.
Chocolate falls, inspired by waterfalls, catch the glances of passing people. The friendly salesman explains the business principle to us. One uses only selected ingredients in the production. And we could taste exceptional chocolate creations and other specialties.
Please read on > Venice off the beaten path
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