Venice: The Floating City, October 31st 2018 Set 2

Venice, a city of canals, gondolas, and timeless beauty, is a must-visit destination for any traveler. This unique Italian city is built on a lagoon, with its streets replaced by waterways that weave through the heart of the city.

Here's a glimpse of what makes Venice so special:

• Canals and Gondolas: One of the most iconic images of Venice is the gondola, a traditional flat-bottomed boat propelled by a single oar. Take a romantic gondola ride through the canals, gliding past historic buildings and bridges.
• St. Mark's Square: The heart of Venice, St. Mark's Square, is a stunning piazza surrounded by magnificent architecture. Admire St. Mark's Basilica, one of the most famous churches in the world, and the Doge's Palace, a former residence of the Venetian rulers.
• The Rialto Bridge: This iconic bridge, spanning the Grand Canal, is a popular spot for people-watching and shopping. The Rialto Market, located nearby, is a vibrant place to buy fresh produce, souvenirs, and local delicacies.
• Murano Glass: Venice is famous for its glassmaking tradition, with the island of Murano being a center for glass production. Visit a glass factory to witness skilled artisans creating beautiful glass objects.
• Carnival of Venice: If you're lucky enough to visit during the annual Carnival of Venice, you'll be treated to a spectacular display of masks, costumes, and festivities.

Tips for Visiting Venice:

• Wear comfortable shoes: You'll be doing a lot of walking, so make sure to wear comfortable footwear.
• Be mindful of crowds: Venice can get crowded, especially during peak tourist season. Plan your visit accordingly or consider visiting during the shoulder seasons.
• Try local cuisine: Venetian cuisine offers a variety of delicious dishes, including seafood, pasta, and risotto. Don't miss the opportunity to try local specialties like cicchetti (small Venetian snacks).
• Take a day trip: Venice is a great base for exploring other nearby attractions, such as the islands of Murano,Burano, and Torcello.

Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or simply looking for a romantic getaway, Venice has something to offer everyone. Its unique charm and timeless beauty make it a truly unforgettable destination.

This is my 2nd set of images taken around the city on the 31st October 2018, clicking any of them should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

Ponte del Cristo over the Rio Martin Canal.

Rio Martin Canal.

Church of San Simon Grando.

Church of Santa Maria de Nazareth, the Santa Lucia Venice Railway Station is just visible to the left of the church with a Venetian bus stop to the left and front of the church on the Grand Canal.

Ponte Degli Scalzi and the Grand Canal. This was taken outside the Santa Lucia Venice Railway Station.

Ponte Ruga Vecchia.

The Grand Canal.

Strata Nova.

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Losing Yourself (and Finding Yourself) in the Magic of Venice

Venice. The name itself conjures up images of gondolas gliding through turquoise canals, ancient palazzos whispering secrets of the past, and lovers sharing stolen kisses under a bridge. And let me tell you, the reality is every bit as magical.

Venice is unlike any other city in the world. Founded on over 100 tiny islands in a lagoon, it's a labyrinth of narrow waterways, charming bridges, and hidden piazzas. Getting lost here isn't just possible; it's practically encouraged. Wandering down a random calle (alleyway) might lead you to a tucked-away trattoria serving the freshest seafood, a hidden courtyard adorned with blooming bougainvillaea, or a local artisan selling hand-crafted masks.

Of course, there are some must-sees:

• Piazza San Marco: The heart of Venice, this stunning square is dominated by the magnificent St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace. Take in the view from the top of the Campanile bell tower, or simply soak up the atmosphere while sipping a cappuccino at an iconic cafe.

• Gondola Ride: Yes, it's touristy, but it's also undeniably Venetian. Glide down the Grand Canal, serenaded by a gondolier, and you'll feel like you've stepped back in time.

• Island Hopping: Explore the colourful houses of Burano, famous for its lacemaking tradition. Visit Murano, where centuries-old glassblowing techniques are still practiced. And don't miss Torcello, a peaceful island with a charming cathedral and sweeping views of the lagoon.

But Venice is more than just a landmark. It's about the feeling of being surrounded by water, the sound of church bells echoing across the canals, and the delicious aroma of freshly baked bread wafting from local bakeries. It's about getting lost in a maze of streets, then stumbling upon a hidden gem.

Here are some tips for making the most of your Venetian adventure:

• Go early (or late): Venice can get crowded, especially during peak season. Try to visit in the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) or arrive early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the throngs of tourists.
• Embrace the walk: The best way to see Venice is on foot. Comfortable shoes are a must!
• Explore beyond the main sights. Venture off the beaten path and discover the hidden corners of this enchanting city.
• Learn a few Italian phrases: A little effort goes a long way. Even a simple "Buongiorno" (good morning) or "Grazie" (thank you) will be appreciated by the locals.
• Savour the food: Venetian cuisine is a delightful mix of fresh seafood, vegetables, and unique regional specialties. Don't miss the chance to try cicchetti (Venetian tapas) and a glass of local wine in a bacaro (wine bar).

Venice is a city that will stay with you long after you leave. It's a place that awakens the senses, stirs the imagination, and leaves you feeling like you've walked into a living fairy tale. So, pack your bags, lace up your walking shoes, and get ready to lose yourself (and find yourself) in the canals of Venice.

I was in Venice for 5 days in 2018, between the dates of Monday 29th and Friday 2nd November. I took numerous pictures and I have been uploading them in smaller sets. This is set 1 from Wednesday 31st October 2018, they were taken with a Nikon d3300. Clicking any of the images below should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

Fondaco dei Tedeschi.

Taken near the Rialto Bridge, the Grand Canal in the foreground.

Merceria San Salvador.

The previous 2 pictures were taken from one of the bridges crossing the Rio dei Bareteri Canal.

Public transport Venetian style, one of the cities water buses on The Grand Canal.

Gondola's moored on the Grand Canal.

Church of San Silverstro

The previous three images are of the Rio Marin Canal.

Ponte Degli Scalzi

Crossers The Grand Canal outside Venice's Railway Station.

The Grand Canal from the Ponte Degli Scalzi, the Venice Santa Lucia Railway Station is just visible to the right of the picture, the Big Dome of Venice (Church of San Simeon Piccolo) to the left.

The waterfront along the San Marco Basin, this is known as the Riva degli Schiavoni.

I'm not sure now you'll be able to visit any major city without finding a Golden Arches. 

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A Venetian Jaunt: A Photo Journey Through the Floating City

Venice, the "Floating City," is a place of undeniable magic. On a recent trip, I spent the day wandering through its labyrinthine streets and getting wonderfully lost. The weather was moody, with a mix of overcast skies and dramatic, fiery sunsets, which only added to the city's unique charm.

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Bridges, Canals, and Gondolas

Navigating Venice means crossing countless bridges, each with its own character. The city's famous canals are its highways, and the sleek, black gondolas are its taxis. Gliding through the water, you feel a sense of timelessness. Even on a gloomy day, the reflections of the ancient buildings shimmer on the canal surface, creating a mesmerizing effect.

Iconic Landmarks

My journey took me past some of Venice's most famous sights, including the magnificent Bridge of Sighs. It's a striking sight, connecting the Doge's Palace to the former prisons. I also came across the impressive bell tower of the Chiesa dei Santi Apostoli, which stands tall against the dramatic sky. The city is full of these architectural wonders, each with a story to tell.

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Hidden Gems and Artistic Details

One of the best parts of exploring Venice is discovering its hidden corners. I stumbled upon a grand entrance hall with a stunning mural, a testament to the city's rich artistic history. Every street, every doorway, and every intricate detail holds a piece of art waiting to be found. The city is a canvas, and its beauty is in the details, from the ornate ironwork to the vibrant, weathered facades of its buildings.

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Venice is more than just a destination; it's an experience. The sounds of water lapping against stone, the scent of the sea mixed with fresh Italian coffee, and the sight of centuries-old architecture coming to life at sunset—it all adds up to a truly unforgettable adventure.

The pictures below were taken on the 30th October 2018 with a Nikon d3300, I have tried to include their location in Venice. Clicking any of them should open a link in another window to my Colin Green photography store on Zazzle.

Ponte di Canonoica.

The Bridge of Sighs from the Ponte di Canonica, the canal is the Rio del Palazzo.

Calle Larga L'Ascension, I took this just off San Marco Square looking towards the waterfront.

Rio Orseolo del Coval and the Hotel Cavalletto.

Calle Tron.

Bell Tower of Chiesa dei Santi Apostoli.

Ponte de San Paternian over the Rio di San Luca Canal.

This doorway and mural were in the same entrance hall area, I think they were taken either in the Accademia Bridge or San Marco Square areas of Venice.

Grand Canal Gondola Mooring at Calle della Carita.

Ponte de le Maravegie, the bell tower is the Campo San Trovaso

Cannaregio Canal.

Leonardo da Vinci Museum.

Rio del Palazzo Canal looking towards the Bridge of Sighs, the bridge between is the Ponte de Canonica.

Another of the Rio del Palazzo Canal, taken from the same bridge as above in the opposite direction.

Church of San Zaccaria.

Ponte de la Pieta on the San Marco sea front. The grey building is the Church of the Pieta.

Calle Tron at night.

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All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.