Venice is one of the most visited cities in the World with visitors sometimes out numbering the locals by two to one! Many tourists will hire a gondola which is definitely worth the over zealous fee they charge, but a btter way to see the sights is by foot as this is ht eonly way to explore the narrow streets. Here you will find hidden campos, handsome Gothic palazzos and neighbourhood wine bars. The churches and museums offer antique glories aplenty, but there is also a vibrant contemporary art scene, even away from the Art Biennale.

Though eating out is not cheap, there are fine local restaurants and bacaros where you can sample local food at reasonable prices. If you step away from the tourist trail, you will discover that this can be a good city for shopping, especially for glass, jewellery or textiles.

Top attractions in Venice:

Bridge of Sighs
Venice's famous Bridge of Sighs was designed by Antonio Contino and was built at the beginning of the 17th century. The bridge is a beautiful sight, stretching high above the canal. It is generally known as one of the finest examples of bridge architecture in the world. Spanning the Rio di Palazzo (Palace River), the bridge was intended to connect the Old Prison and interrogation rooms in the Doge's Palace to the New Prison, which was situated directly across the river.

St. Mark's Square
As the largest square in the city, St. Mark's Square has always been the location of important government buildings and other facilities central to the goings on in Venice.

The centerpiece of the piazza is, of course, magnificent St. Mark's Basilica. Commissioned in 1071 by doge Domenico Contarini, this amazing church is built in Venetian-Byzantine style, a mixture of western and eastern styles.

Rialto Bridge
This ornamental stone bridge on the Grand Canal is one of the most famous bridges in Venice and is an icon of the city. Take a stroll across the Rialto Bridge and enjoy its lively shops and markets.

Basilica di San Marco
 Started in the 9th Century, Basilica di San Marco's architecture shows an eastern and Byzantine influence. In the 12th Century, several magnificent domes were built that now adorn this man made slice of beauty. The Basilica houses the Marciano Museum, which contains the original bronze horses, copies of which are now on the terrace. Other great artworks are located in the Pala d'Oro , along with masterpieces of Gothic gold-smithing, located just behind the altar.