Here we go: About Venice
Believed to have hosted settlements since the tenth century BC, Venice emerged as a center of commerce during the Middle Ages. As an independent city-state, the Republic of Venice held territories along the coast, along with a strong navy and maritime trade. Venice has long had commercial relations with the Ottoman Empire, and it remains an important historical and cultural city in Italy today.
Venice: Places to visit
The annual Carnival of Venice is thought to have originated in the 12th century. For more on this world-famous event, check out Forgetting the world for 20 days: Venice Carnival.
And now, let’s take a look at some of the highlights of this wonderful city.
St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco)
Piazza San Marco is one of the city’s best-known historical landmarks. Dedicated to the city’s patron saint, the expansive Piazza houses St. Mark’s Basilica and St. Mark’s Campanile (Bell Tower), as well as St. Mark’s Clocktower, the Doge’s Palace and the Correr Museum. The former 16th-century quarters of the Procurators of St. Mark now serve as an arcade along the Piazza, hosting restaurants and offices. Architecturally stunning and known for its large pigeon population, the Piazza is also among the lowest points of the city and tends to flood easily.
St. Mark’s Basilica
More than a thousand years old, the majestic St. Mark’s Basilica anchors the Piazza San Marco. A masterpiece of Byzantine, Gothic and Renaissance architecture, it was built to house the relics of Saint Mark and has five domes and beautiful mosaics. It is also sometimes called the “church of gold” due to its gold-painted interior. Its design is said to have been inspired by the Hagia Sophia of Constantinople.
Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale)
Built in the Venetian Gothic style, the 14th-century Doge’s Palace in Piazza San Marco was erected to serve as the administrative headquarters for the region, containing offices and law courts. It is now an impressive museum displaying the works of Italy’s most famous artists, including Bellini and Tintoretto.
Grand Canal
Among the approximately 150 canals in Venice, the Grand Canal stands out. This highly photogenic waterway is a major transportation artery in the city and is lined with a number of gorgeous palazzos. Gondola tours along the Grand Canal are a popular tourist activity.
Rialto Bridge
One of the four bridges spanning the Grand Canal, the Rialto Bridge connects the San Marco and San Polo districts and offers spectacular views. As a popular tourist spot, it tends to get crowded; we suggest visiting early in the morning or late in the evening.
Fenice Opera House (Teatro La Fenice)
Considered among Italy’s most notable opera houses, the Teatro La Fenice features breathtakingly magnificent interiors architecture that will take your breath away. Originally founded in 1792, the beautifully restored structure continues to host performances.
Murano Island
For another perspective on Venice, you can visit the island of Murano. Comprising several islets connected by bridges, Murano is known for its peaceful atmosphere and historical structures, as well as its centuries-old glass-blowing tradition – in the 12th century, the glassmakers of Venice moved to the island to minimize the risk of fire in the city. Set in a former bishop’s palace, the Murano Glass Museum contains an extensive collection of glass works dating from the 15th century, including a 330-kilogram chandelier. Other notable structures include the Basilica of Santa Maria and the Palazzo Da Mula; the Campo Santo Stefano is known for its colorful Christmas market.
Dining in Venice
This one-of-a-kind city is home to an equally exciting cuisine. Some of the city’s local specialties include the following:
- Baccala mantecato (a creamy spread made with salt cod)
- Carpaccio (finely sliced raw beef served with various sauces)
- Frittelle alla Veneziane (fried sweet dough balls)
- Moleche (Fried crab meat)
- Pasta e fagioli (Venetian-style pasta with beans and sauce)
- Pincia(cake made with dried fruits)
- Bigoli in salsa (whole-wheat pasta with sardines or anchovies)
Some useful tips on Venice
To visit this amazing city, simply click here for a flight ticket to Venice. Keep reading for some useful information about Venice.
Staying in Venice
The city offers a comprehensive range of accommodation options to suit your budget and expectations. The area around Piazza San Marco is near many tourist attractions but tends to be a little more expensive. The Cannaregio, Dorsoduro and San Polo neighborhoods, also close to the city center, often have more affordable options. Turkish Airlines Holidays vacation packages can also assist you with flight and hotel reservations!
Getting around Venice
The use of motor vehicles is restricted in the city of Venice but water buses (vaporetto) and water taxis are available, as are gondola and boat tours.
Transportation from Venice Marco Polo Airport to the city center
Venice Marco Polo Airport is approximately 12 kilometers from the city center. The ATVO or ACTV buses operate between the airport and the city center, as do water taxis and water buses. Airport taxis are available 24 hours a day and can bring you as far as the Piazzale Roma; from there, you can walk or use a water taxi.
We wish you pleasant travels!
