Weekend in Venice, visits and activities

Located in the historic center of Venice, St. Mark's Square is unusually large for the city, measuring 180 metres in length and 70 metres in width. One of the most beautiful squares in Europe, Piazza San Marco is bordered by some of the most beautiful buildings in Venice. It is a lively square during the day and evening, and is also popular for its cafes and shops. You can take a walk, admire the aerial ballet of the pigeons, stop to listen to a musician, or sit down for a gourmet break, comforting or refreshing.

Why go to Piazza San Marco ? A must for visiting the Campanile, the Basilica of San Marco and the Doge's Palace which border it on three sides, Piazza San Marco is worth a visit for its architectural majesty as much as for its atmosphere.

Built in the Middle Ages, the Doge's Palace was home to the Doge's who presided over the destiny of the Serenissima for almost 1000 years. Combining Byzantine, Gothic and Renaissance architectural inspirations, it houses priceless decoration and works of art. During your visit to the Doge's Palace, you will be able to enter the intimacy of the ancient rulers of Venice. You can admire the Scala d'Oro (Golden Staircase), the Duke's Apartment, the Sala del Maggior Consiglio (Major Council Hall), and the Hall of Arms, which houses a collection of weapons and armour. You will also cross the famous Bridge of Sighs, so named because it led to the prisons and dungeons of the palace and was used by those condemned to death.

Why visit the Doge's Palace ? This extraordinary building surprises with its splendid decoration and its extraordinary collection of masterpieces, most of which date from the Renaissance. You can opt for a guided tour in english.

The entrance to the museum also allows you to visit the Archaeological Museum and the National Marcian Library, both of which are accessible from the Correr Museum. Its many rooms contain real treasures: paintings and sculptures by the greatest artists of the Renaissance, valuable furniture and naval instruments. The exhibits trace the history of the city from its foundation to the 19th century. The Archaeological Museum of Venice presents the public with numerous ancient pieces from Greek and Roman times. The main hall of the National Library of Venice has remarkable ornaments, some of which were made by Veronese.

Why visit the Correr Museum ? As one of the most important museums in the city, it houses valuable collections.

The Venetian lagoon has several islands, each with its own identity and character. The island of Murano has acquired a worldwide reputation thanks to the work of the glassblowers who settled there. Many glass factories are still in operation and can be visited for a spectacular demonstration of the art of glass blowing. You can also take advantage of your visit to the island to stroll through the streets of the small town, discover the Glass Museum, or push open the doors of the Basilica Santi Maria e Donato, the oldest in the lagoon.

Why go to Murano ? The island, with its 5000 inhabitants, offers a welcome break during your stay.