Venice, Italy
Overview
Venice is one of Italy’s most enchanting destinations—a city where canals replace streets and every corner feels like a scene from a painting. Built across more than 100 small islands, Venice is known for its romantic gondolas, ornate bridges, Renaissance architecture, and centuries of fascinating history. We were there for one full day and got to experience the luxury shopping, go on an iconic Gondola ride, and even saw how the process of glass blowing is made. Venice is especially memorable because it truly does not feel like a real place.
Berengo Collection- Glass Blowing
Did you know glassblowing is one of Venice’s most treasured artistic traditions, with a history stretching back more than a thousand years? The craft is most closely associated with Murano, a group of islands located just a short boat ride from central Venice. In 1291, Venetian glassmakers were moved to Murano to reduce the risk of fires from their extremely hot furnaces and to protect their valuable glassmaking techniques. Inside Murano’s workshops, skilled artisans use intense heat to transform molten glass into delicate sculptures, colorful jewelry, chandeliers, vases, and decorative objects. The glass is shaped by blowing air through a long metal tube and carefully using specialized tools—a process that requires precision, patience, and years of training. Watching a glassblowing demonstration offers a fascinating look at the craftsmanship behind authentic Murano glass. Each handmade creation is slightly different, giving it its own character and beauty. Inside the shop after the demonstration, there was a collection of vases, cups, bowls, sculptures, and so much more. We were able to purchase some of the artwork, but unfortunately because of copyright reasons, we could not take any photographs inside the shop. Pictured above is the vase that my mom ended up shipping back to America for her house as an example of what the glassblowing pieces looked like.
Doges Palace
Doge’s Palace, also known as Palazzo Ducale, is one of Venice’s most recognizable landmarks. Located beside St. Mark’s Basilica, the palace once served as the residence of the Doge—the elected leader of the Venetian Republic. It was also the center of Venice’s government, court system, and political life for centuries. The palace is known for its Venetian Gothic architecture, grand staircases, ornate chambers, and impressive collection of Renaissance artwork. Inside, visitors can explore lavish government rooms decorated by artists such as Tintoretto and Veronese. One of its most famous rooms is the Great Council Chamber, which features Tintoretto’s enormous painting Paradise. A visit also includes crossing the legendary Bridge of Sighs, which connects the palace to its historic prisons. According to tradition, prisoners sighed as they caught their final glimpse of Venice through the bridge’s small windows.
St. Marks Basilica
St. Mark’s Basilica is one of Venice’s most famous and breathtaking landmarks. Located in St. Mark’s Square beside the Doge’s Palace, the basilica has served as an important religious and cultural symbol of Venice for centuries. Originally built in the ninth century to house the relics of St. Mark the Evangelist, it later became the city’s cathedral. The basilica is known for its distinctive blend of Byzantine, Gothic, and Romanesque architecture. Its exterior features grand domes, detailed arches, marble columns, and elaborate mosaics. Inside, the ceilings and walls are covered with shimmering golden mosaics depicting biblical stories, earning the basilica the nickname “Church of Gold.” One of its greatest treasures is the Pala d’Oro, an ornate golden altarpiece decorated with precious stones and enamel panels. Visitors can also access the basilica’s museum and terrace for a closer view of its famous bronze horses and beautiful views overlooking St. Mark’s Square.
Gondola Ride
A gondola ride is one of the most iconic experiences in Venice. For centuries, these elegant, flat-bottomed boats were an important form of transportation through the city’s network of canals. Today, they offer visitors a memorable way to experience Venice from the water and admire the city from a completely different perspective. As the gondola glides through the canals, passengers pass beneath historic bridges and alongside colorful buildings, hidden courtyards, and centuries-old palaces. Some routes travel along quieter waterways, while others include views of the Grand Canal and famous landmarks such as the Rialto Bridge. The gondolier carefully navigates the narrow passages using a single long oar and may share stories about Venice along the way. Although a gondola ride can be expensive, it captures the romance, history, and charm that make Venice so special. Just an FYI, bring cash for tips as well.
Luxury Shopping
Venice offers a unique luxury-shopping experience that combines internationally recognized fashion houses with traditional Venetian craftsmanship. The city’s main upscale shopping district is located near St. Mark’s Square, particularly along Calle Larga XXII Marzo. Here, visitors can explore boutiques from renowned designers such as Gucci, Prada, Louis Vuitton, Dior, Bottega Veneta, and Valentino. Beyond high-fashion boutiques, Venice is known for locally crafted luxury goods. Shoppers can discover authentic Murano glass, handmade leather products, delicate lace from Burano, decorative masks, jewelry, and beautiful Venetian textiles. These pieces reflect the city’s artistic traditions and provide a more personal alternative to traditional designer purchases. Venice’s elegant architecture and historic streets make shopping feel like part of the sightseeing experience.