The delicate lacework of palace facades rising up from the water; the stillness of the campielli, little squares dominated by ancient churches; the graceful lines of bridges that span its historic canals. Every corner of Venice has a surprise in store and is a joy to the eye. In September, the city also offers pomp and spectacle in the form of the Regata Storica, its historic regatta.
Within the lagoon, there are other islands each with their own characher. Buano is famous for its colorful houses and in its little squares, women still make the fine lacework typical of the island. Murano has been the center of glass-working since 1291, when the workers moved there so the fires that often broke out would not threaten the city.
September is the best time to visit Venice, when the summer head and humidity has abated and average daytime temperatures only reach about 24 degrees celsius. To check the current weather in Venice, click here.
Marco Polo Airport is linked to the center of Venice by bus and taci, which will get you to the city center in 20 minutes. The historic center is easily explored on foot. Otherwise there are vaporetti waterbuses linking all the sights. For more information visit the Travel page.
Treat yourself to an unforgettable experience at the Hotel Danieli, an icon of Venice. Much less expensive is the attractive and comfortable Do Pozzi, a few steps from Piazza San Marco.
For a delicious meal of cicheto (appetizing small dishes of fish, seafood, cheese, and salami) and a glass of wine, try bacari (inns) such as Do Mori or l'Aciugheta.
Start your visit in Piazza San Marco, the heart of the city, surrounded by porticoes and dominated by the basilica and the Palazzo Ducale. Don't miss the interior of the basilica and its marvelous mosaics.
Step behind the hight altar to admire the Pala d'Oro, a masterpiece of Byzantine goldsmiths' art then climb up to the balcony for a view of the whole square. Enjoy a coffee or cocktail at the 18th-century Cafe Florian, a haunt of Venetian intellectuals.
Spend the morning in the Galleria dell'Accademia, which holds a magnificent collection of Venetian art. In the afternoon, head for the island of Torcello to see its splended churches. Toward eventing, back in Venice seek out a bacaru, a typical Venetian inn where you can have a glass of wine with a selection of delicious snacks.