Velence

Venice is one of the most unique cities in the world: instead of cars, there are canals; instead of streets, there are bridges; and instead of a city “main square,” the rhythm is set by Piazza San Marco. The city is both a living historical backdrop and an everyday home: rows of palaces reflect on the waters of the Grand Canal, while within minutes in the narrow alleys (calli), you can escape the busiest tourist spots and find quiet, “local” little squares. Part of Venice’s charm lies in its walkability, with every turn revealing something new – a hidden courtyard, a tiny canal, or a centuries-old façade. Main attractions and iconic locations The classic first-time Venice itinerary almost always centres around St Mark’s Square: here you’ll find St Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, and emblematic views of the lagoon. A logical next step is the Rialto Bridge and the bustling market atmosphere of its surroundings, followed by a waterborne “city tour” aboard a vaporetto (water bus) along the Grand Canal – often a more practical and authentic experience than a gondola ride, though a one-time gondola trip remains a quintessential Venetian memory. If you’re in the mood for art, the Dorsoduro district (such as the area around the Accademia) is a great choice, with museums, galleries, and less crowded walks. The city’s real “bonus” is the world of its islands: Murano is famous for glassmaking, while Burano is beloved for its colourful houses and picturesque canal-side photo spots. Activity ideas – what to do in Venice? Venice truly comes alive when you don’t just “tick off” the sights but allow time for a slower city experience. A well-balanced itinerary could include: an early morning visit to St Mark’s Square and the main attractions (to avoid the crowds), a mid-morning vaporetto ride along the Grand Canal, an afternoon of “getting lost” in quieter neighbourhoods, and an evening of cicchetti (local snacks) and a short waterfront stroll. If you have more time, dedicate half a day to the islands or take a “sea-breeze” detour towards the Lido. In winter, the city is calmer and more photogenic; in spring and autumn, many consider the climate to be at its best; in summer, careful planning (early starts, shaded routes, water buses) can make your visit more comfortable. Sustainability and managing overtourism Venice is one of Europe’s most well-known examples of how tourism can strain daily life and heritage preservation. To address this, the city has implemented several measures to regulate crowds: it has introduced and expanded an experimental daily visitor entry fee (online registration/QR code, with the fee in 2025 varying depending on the timing of the registration), applied on peak days, with ongoing decisions about its continuation. Additionally, regulations now include limits on the size of tourist groups and restrictions on amplified sound in crowded areas. A significant symbolic step was the removal of large cruise ships from the immediate vicinity of the historic centre, a move welcomed by international heritage organisations. For visitors, the essence of a sustainable trip to Venice is simple: if possible, choose off-peak times, stay at least one night, and support local, genuinely Venetian businesses – this has a far greater impact than any “green” slogan. - editorial content -