I have been many times to Venice, but it is not possible to see too much of Venice. The fact that it is exists is remarkable. The city that sits on millions of wooden poles has managed to stay above the water in the lagoon for more than 1,600 years.
There are 14,000 wooden poles under the Rialto Bridge and 10,000 oak trees under San Marco Basilica, built in 832AD. How could you not love this city?
We drove to Venice and parked at the Tronchetto car park, turn right after leaving the bridge over the lagoon. From there we took a ferry to our hotel in Dosoduro. The minute the ferry turns into the Grand Canal the marvellous buildings lining the edges begin to appear.
The Rialto Bridge.
We dropped our bags at the hotel and went to Fondamente Nove to catch the ferry to Burano where we had a late lunch appointment. We arrived as the ferry was sailing off to Burano.
So, we turned around and walked back towards Piazza San Marco…more canals…
and we came across this, Campo di S.S. Giovanni & Paolo.
In the huge piazza is the church of St John and St Paul and a hospital.
It is difficult to get a feeling of the immensity of these buildings, and they stand on wooden poles.
We walked past more canals, more fabulous buildings..
I love finding small details.
We arrived at St Marks square. The church facade has scaffolding so I am just showing you the top.
Because we missed lunch we decided to have aperitivo at Florian, the oldest cafe in Italy. It recently celebrated its 300th year.
It was a beautiful, warm afternoon so we sat outside where the band plays.
We walked to the hotel past more canals,
huge buildings,
shiny shop windows,
more details,
a beautiful cafe and florist,
a high fence with mimosa,
to the promenade in front of the hotel.
Hotel Palazzo Venezia.
The lovely entrance.
Our room.
The breakfast room.
Then it was out again to enjoy the warm evening.
There is much to love in Venice.
During covid, when I was stuck in Italy, I took advantage of one of the times we were able to move about, and went to Venice. It is interesting to look back to that time….
more on my favourite area in Venice.
We also have been to beautiful Venice many times & your Post brought back great memories. Your photos day & night superb. It looks good weather for you.
By: Camillus Davall on March 20, 2026
at 7:32 am