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Venice, Italy, is one of the most romantic and fascinating places to visit in the Mediterranean. From gondola rides and strolls along the canals, to classic art and literature, to contemporary food and wine tours, to tucked-in shops full of classic Venetian masks, glass and textiles, there’s really something for everyone in this gem of a city. Getting there is easy—you can find a plane, bus or train from most major European points, and cruise ships and water taxis serve the port frequently. The city is pedestrian only, so if you arrive by car you’ll have leave it at the edge of town. If you’ve got your own boat, note that there are specific rules to do with size and licensing for taking it through the canals.
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One thing that most people know about Venice is that it’s basically a lagoon with waterways as roads; to this end, certain times of year can be very wet (and sometimes flood) so is not as enjoyable to visit. It’s a good idea to bring waterproof shoes and a jacket at most times of year. Winter months are less crowded, but are potentially quite wet and foggy. Venice is quite crowded during peak summer months and during carnival (which normally takes place in late January or early February), so shoulder seasons (late spring/early fall) are likely optimal visiting times.
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The city is a fantastic place for just strolling the narrow streets for hours and exploring markets and shops. Wandering visitors should note some key stops: the bell tower of St. Mark and the Clock Tower, which offer wonderful views of the city; the Rialto market and bridge; and the Squero, where you can stop and learn about gondola-making. Museums and galleries are plentiful, with a huge collection of Renaissance masters resting in the famous Gallerie dell’Academia. Other must-see spots for art and history lovers include the Punta della Dogana Museum of Contemporary Art, the Guggenheim museum and the Moorish-designed gothic palace Giorgio Franchetti Alla Ca’ d’Oro Gallery.