Venice is a true labyrinth of narrow streets, bridges and canals, where even the most experienced traveller can easily get lost. More often than not, there simply isn’t enough time during a trip to properly explore this labyrinth. A few days in the city usually fly by so quickly that afterwards you can hardly remember where you went, what you saw, or what the whole experience was about.
That is why, as a photographer in Italy, it is important to me that you not only get beautiful photographs to remember your time in Venice by but also get to know the city a little better. I combine a leisurely exploration of the city with the aesthetic experience of seeing it through photography.
In this short article, I would like to introduce you to three routes I have designed with exactly that in mind.
Route 1
Serenissima
Venice was known as “La Serenissima”, meaning “the Most Serene Republic”, during the height of its power, when it was one of the strongest maritime powers in Europe. Today, the name is mostly a reminder of the city’s history. So, on this first route, I suggest visiting some of Venice’s main historical sights, while also seeing the lagoon from a variety of perspectives.
The walk starts in the heart of the city, at St Mark’s Square, with its views of the lagoon, the basilica, the Doge’s Palace, the Marciana Library, the Bridge of Sighs and its beautiful arcades. Once we have explored the area, we make our way towards the Accademia Bridge. Along the way, I have picked out a couple of spots with beautiful views of the Grand Canal, as well as churches and palazzi that seem to appear around every corner.
After taking in the most “postcard-perfect” view of Venice from the Accademia Bridge, we continue to Punta della Dogana, where a panoramic view of the lagoon awaits us — along with a view back towards the square where we began our journey.
This route is perfect for a first introduction to the city, and for those who don’t mind the crowds of people trying to claim their own little piece of Venice.
Route 2
Venice Unmasked
In keeping with its carnival traditions, Venice also hides its true character behind flamboyant palaces and beautifully painted gondolas. This is why people often look for quieter streets where they can experience the city away from the crowds and the bustle of tourism.
To discover a more authentic Venice, breathing in the sea air, we will head to Cannaregio in the north of the island. We will start at the Church of the Jesuits, where I have found a small but picturesque spot. From there, we will walk along the canals, stop at a local enoteca and try some traditional cicchetti.
Towards the end of the route, we will reach the area around the Three Bridges, where local residents take their children for walks, head out on boats to go about their daily business, and gather to watch the sunset as the evening approaches.
This route is perfect for those who prefer to avoid the tourist crowds and would like to discover Venice through the eyes of its residents.
Route 3
Green Venice
Almost as soon as you arrive in Venice, it becomes clear that the city doesn’t have much in the way of green spaces. Nature, as an element of the urban landscape, has largely been swallowed up by the water. But that doesn’t mean there are no gardens or parks at all. The green spaces that do exist in Venice may not rival the Tuileries Gardens, but they are no less refreshing and pleasant to the eye.
On this route, we will explore the area around the Biennale Gardens. Entry to the exhibition pavilions themselves is always paid, but around them you will find gardens and paths full of everyday local life. We will visit a picturesque café housed in former botanical pavilions, and a fountain inhabited by turtles. We will then walk to the island of San Pietro di Castello and take a look at the Arsenal.
At the end of the walk, we will take in the lagoon before making our way back towards St Mark’s Square.
This route is for those who don’t mind covering a fair distance and would like to venture into a part of Venice that few tourists ever reach.
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