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Tag: Doge’s Palace

  • Venice Cruise Port Guide: Top Things to Do for Cruise Travelers

    Venice Cruise Port Guide: Top Things to Do for Cruise Travelers

    Canal in Venice with a small garden and a tree near the house, on the water a small motor boat

    Venice is one of the most enchanting cities in the world — a maze of canals, bridges, palaces, and hidden corners that feel like stepping into a storybook. But here’s the part most cruise travelers don’t realize: the cruise port is nowhere near the best parts of Venice.

    To truly experience the city, you’ll want to explore before or after your cruise, when you have time to wander, get lost, and soak in the atmosphere that makes Venice unforgettable.

    This guide highlights the top 20 things to do in Venice, with insider notes on whether each activity works best before your cruise, after your cruise, or only if you stay overnight.

    1. St. Mark’s Basilica

    Saint Mark's basilica (Basilica di San Marco) in Venice, Italy

    Venice’s most iconic church, famous for its golden mosaics and Byzantine architecture.

    • Best for: Before or after your cruise
    • Why: Lines can be long, and the interior deserves time.
    • Tip: Book a skip‑the‑line ticket or early access tour.

    You can learn more about visiting this landmark in my full St. Mark’s Basilica Venice guide.

    2. Doge’s Palace

    Doge's Palace in Venice, Italy
    Doge’s Palace with the Scala dei Giganti staircase in Venice

    A stunning Gothic palace filled with art, history, and the famous Bridge of Sighs.

    • Best for: Before or after your cruise
    • Why: The Secret Itineraries tour is worth it but takes time.
    • Tip: Combine with St. Mark’s for a half‑day experience.

    You can learn more about visiting this landmark in my full Doge’s Palace Venice guide.

    3. Rialto Bridge & Rialto Market

    View of the Rialto Bridge spanning the Grand Canal in Venice, Italy.
    Rialto Bridge spanning the Grand Canal in Venice, Italy.

    The oldest bridge on the Grand Canal and a lively market filled with produce and seafood.

    • Best for: Before or after your cruise
    • Why: The market is best early in the morning.
    • Tip: Visit before 10 AM for the most authentic experience.

    For more details on this area, head to my complete Rialto Bridge & Rialto Market guide.

    4. Grand Canal Vaporetto Ride

    Vaporetto cruising along the Grand Canal in Venice with buildings in the background.
    Venice, Italy – Vaporetto ferry boat public transport on the Grand Canal

    The most scenic “bus ride” in the world.

    • Best for: Embarkation or disembarkation day
    • Why: Easy, flexible, and doesn’t require reservations.
    • Tip: Take Line 1 for the slow, scenic route.

    For more details on this experience, head to my complete Grand Canal vaporetto ride guide.

    5. Gondola Ride

    Traditional gondola gliding through a quiet canal in Venice.

    A classic Venice experience — peaceful, romantic, and iconic.

    • Best for: Before or after your cruise
    • Why: You’ll want time to choose a quiet canal route.
    • Tip: Sunset rides are magical.

    For more details on this classic experience, head to my complete Gondola Ride Venice guide,

    6. St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco)

    Wide view of St. Mark’s Square in Venice with St. Mark’s Basilica in the background.
    Venetian Square Piazza San Marco, evening view.

    The heart of Venice — grand, elegant, and full of energy.

    • Best for: Any time
    • Why: Easy to visit, even with limited time.
    • Tip: Early morning or late evening is best for photos.

    For more details on this iconic landmark, head to my complete St. Mark’s Square Venice guide.

    7. Bridge of Sighs

    Bridge of Sighs between the Doge's Palace and the prison Prigioni Nuove of Venice in Italy.
    Bridge of Sighs between the Doge’s Palace and the prison Prigioni Nuove of Venice in Italy.

    A historic bridge connecting the palace to the old prison.

    • Best for: Before or after your cruise
    • Why: Best experienced from inside the Doge’s Palace.
    • Tip: Also view it from the outside bridge for photos.

    For more details on this iconic landmark, head to my complete Bridge of Sighs Venice guide.

    8. Libreria Acqua Alta

    Books of The Libreria Acqua Alta bookshop.
    VENICE, ITALY – Books of The Libreria Acqua Alta bookshop.

    A quirky, book‑filled shop famous for its gondola book display and “book steps.”

    • Best for: Before or after your cruise
    • Why: Small and charming — best enjoyed without rushing.
    • Tip: Great for unique photos.

    For more details on this unique spot, head to my complete Libreria Acqua Alta Venice guide.

    9. Peggy Guggenheim Collection

    View of the entrance to the Peggy Guggenheim Collection from the Grand Canal in Venice, Italy.
    View of the entrance to the Peggy Guggenheim Collection from the Grand Canal in Venice, Italy.

    A modern art museum along the Grand Canal.

    • Best for: Before or after your cruise
    • Why: Requires at least 1–2 hours.
    • Tip: The sculpture garden is a peaceful highlight.

    You can learn more about this modern art museum in my full Peggy Guggenheim Collection Venice guide.

    10. Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute

    Basilica Santa Maria della Salute in Venice, Italy.
    Basilica Santa Maria della Salute in Venice, Italy.

    A beautiful domed church at the entrance of the Grand Canal.

    • Best for: Any time
    • Why: Free entry and easy to visit.
    • Tip: Gorgeous at sunset.

    For more details on this iconic landmark, head to my complete Santa Maria della Salute Venice guide.

    11. Teatro La Fenice

    Phoenix theater (Gran Teatro La Fenice) in Venice, Italy
    Phoenix theater (Gran Teatro La Fenice) in Venice, Italy

    Venice’s historic opera house.

    • Best for: Before or after your cruise
    • Why: Tours take time, and performances are evening‑only.
    • Tip: The gold‑and‑blue interior is breathtaking.

    For more details on this beautiful theater, head to my complete Teatro La Fenice Venice guide.

    12. Murano Island (Glassmaking)

    Murano glass processing, Venice, Veneto, Italy
    Stages of the artisanal processing of Murano glass

    Famous for its glassblowing studios and colorful shops.

    • Best for: Before or after your cruise
    • Why: Requires a half‑day.
    • Tip: Avoid “free tours” — they often lead to high‑pressure shops.

    For more details on this famous glassmaking island, head to my complete Murano Island Venice guide.

    13. Burano Island (Colorful Houses)

    Charming canal and footbridge surrounded by colorful houses on Burano Island.
    Burano Island in the Venetian Lagoon

    A photographer’s dream — bright, colorful homes and lace shops.

    • Best for: Before or after your cruise
    • Why: Takes time to reach and explore.
    • Tip: Go early to avoid crowds.

    You can learn more about this colorful island in my full Burano Island Venice guide.

    14. Torcello Island

    View of bell tower of Torcello Cathedral over canal and trees on the island of Torcello, Venice, Italy
    View of bell tower of Torcello Cathedral over canal and trees on the island of Torcello, Venice, Italy

    A quiet, historic island with ancient churches and peaceful paths.

    • Best for: After your cruise
    • Why: Best for travelers with extra time.
    • Tip: Combine with Burano for a full day.

    For more details on this quiet historic island, head to my complete Torcello Island Venice guide.

    15. Scala Contarini del Bovolo

    Exterior view of Scala Contarini del Bovolo with its spiral staircase and arches in Venice, Italy
    Scala Contarini del Bovolo (Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo) in Venice, Italy

    A hidden spiral staircase with panoramic views.

    • Best for: Before or after your cruise
    • Why: Timed entry required.
    • Tip: Great for photos.

    For more details on this unique architectural gem, head to my complete Scala Contarini del Bovolo Venice guide.

    16. Accademia Bridge

    The Ponte dell'Accademia is bridge to span the Grand Canal in Venice, Italy.

    One of the best viewpoints over the Grand Canal.

    • Best for: Any time
    • Why: Free, easy, and beautiful.
    • Tip: Sunset is spectacular.

    You can learn more about this scenic Grand Canal viewpoint in my full Accademia Bridge Venice guide.

    17. San Giorgio Maggiore Bell Tower

    Venice, San Giorgio Maggiore Basilica
    Venice, San Giorgio Maggiore Basilica

    A short boat ride from St. Mark’s — with one of the best views in Venice.

    • Best for: Before or after your cruise
    • Why: Requires a vaporetto ride and elevator trip.
    • Tip: Fewer crowds than St. Mark’s Campanile.

    You can learn more about this panoramic Venice viewpoint in my full San Giorgio Maggiore Bell Tower Venice guide.

    18. St. Mark’s Campanile (Bell Tower)

    St Mark's Campanile in Venice with marble detailing of Doge's Palace
    St Mark’s Campanile in Venice with marble detailing of Doge’s Palace

    The tallest viewpoint in Venice.

    • Best for: Before or after your cruise
    • Why: Lines can be long.
    • Tip: Book a timed ticket if available.

    For more details on this famous bell tower, head to my complete St. Mark’s Campanile Venice guide.

    19. Wander the Back Canals

    Venice back canals in Venice, Italy

    The best part of Venice is simply getting lost.

    • Best for: Any time
    • Why: No reservations, no lines — just atmosphere.
    • Tip: Explore Dorsoduro or Cannaregio for quieter streets.

    For more details on exploring Venice’s peaceful back streets, head to my complete Back Canals guide.

    20. Enjoy Cicchetti at Traditional Bacari

    Typical Italian dish: cicchetti from Venice
    Typical dish from Bacaro in Venice: cicchetti with cheese, shrimps, salted cod, zucchini, lard.

    Small bites served at cozy wine bars — Venice’s version of tapas.

    • Best for: Any time
    • Why: Easy, delicious, and flexible.
    • Tip: Try a cicchetti crawl in Cannaregio.

    You can learn more about Venice’s traditional bacari and cicchetti culture in my full guide.

    Final Thoughts

    Venice is a city best enjoyed before or after your cruise, when you have time to wander, explore, and soak in the magic. The cruise port is far from the heart of the city — but with a little planning, you can experience the very best of Venice at your own pace.

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  • Bridge of Sighs -Venice, Italy

    Bridge of Sighs -Venice, Italy

    Bridge of Sighs between the Doge's Palace and the prison Prigioni Nuove of Venice in Italy.
    Bridge of Sighs between the Doge’s Palace and the prison Prigioni Nuove of Venice in Italy.

    The Bridge of Sighs is one of Venice’s most photographed landmarks — a small, elegant white‑stone bridge that connects Doge’s Palace to the old prison. Despite its beauty, the bridge has a dramatic history: prisoners crossed it after sentencing, taking one last look at Venice before being led to their cells.

    Today, it’s a symbol of Venice’s past and one of the most iconic spots to visit near St. Mark’s Square.

    What the Bridge of Sighs Is Known For

    • Its elegant white limestone design
    • The dramatic history of prisoners crossing it
    • Connecting Doge’s Palace to the old prison
    • One of the most photographed bridges in Venice
    • Beautiful views from the outside bridge on the canal

    It’s small but packed with history and atmosphere.

    Why It’s Worth Visiting

    The Bridge of Sighs is a quick but meaningful stop. From the outside, it’s a gorgeous photo spot. From the inside, it’s a powerful moment — you walk the same enclosed passage prisoners once did.

    It pairs perfectly with:

    • Doge’s Palace
    • St. Mark’s Square
    • The waterfront promenade

    Even if you’re short on time, it’s easy to fit into your Venice itinerary.

    Best Time to Visit

    Best for: Before or after your cruise Why: The interior is only accessible through Doge’s Palace.

    The outside view is beautiful any time of day, but the best times are:

    • Early morning — soft light, fewer crowds
    • Late afternoon — warm glow on the stone

    If you want to walk inside the bridge, you must visit Doge’s Palace.

    How Long to Spend

    • 5–10 minutes for the outside view
    • 1.5–2 hours if you’re touring Doge’s Palace and walking inside the bridge

    It’s a quick stop on its own, but a meaningful part of the palace experience.

    How to Get There

    The Bridge of Sighs is located right next to Doge’s Palace, just off St. Mark’s Square.

    You can view it from:

    • The small bridge on Ponte della Paglia (best photo spot)
    • The waterfront promenade near the palace

    From the cruise port (Marghera), your shuttle + boat transfer often drops you within a short walk of this area.

    Is It Good for Cruise Day?

    Yes — especially the outside view.

    It’s:

    • Quick
    • Easy
    • Free
    • Right next to St. Mark’s Square

    If you want to walk inside the bridge, plan this for before or after your cruise when you have time to tour Doge’s Palace.

    Insider Tips

    • The best photos are taken from Ponte della Paglia, facing the bridge.
    • Visit early to avoid crowds blocking the view.
    • If you’re touring Doge’s Palace, don’t rush the interior walkway — it’s a powerful moment.
    • Combine this with St. Mark’s Square and Doge’s Palace for a perfect half‑day.

    Common Complaints

    • Crowded photo spot
    • Quick visit
    • Interior only accessible with Doge’s Palace ticket

    Still, it’s one of Venice’s most iconic sights and worth a stop.

    Cruise‑Friendly Summary

    The Bridge of Sighs is a quick, iconic stop right next to St. Mark’s Square and Doge’s Palace. Whether you admire it from the outside or walk through it during a palace tour, it’s an easy and meaningful addition to your Venice itinerary — perfect for before or after your cruise.

    For more Venice ideas, return to my complete Top 20 Things to Do in Venice guide.

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  • St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco) – Venice, Italy

    St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco) – Venice, Italy

    Wide view of St. Mark’s Square in Venice with St. Mark’s Basilica in the background.
    Venetian Square Piazza San Marco, evening view.

    St. Mark’s Square is the heart of Venice — grand, elegant, and full of energy. Surrounded by some of the city’s most famous landmarks, including St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace, this iconic square is often the first place travelers see when they arrive in Venice. Whether you visit early in the morning or late at night, the atmosphere is unforgettable.

    This is the Venice you’ve seen in movies, postcards, and travel guides — and it’s even more magical in person.

    What St. Mark’s Square Is Known For

    • Venice’s most famous and historic public square
    • Stunning views of St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace
    • Elegant arcades lined with cafés and shops
    • Live orchestras at night (especially near the historic cafés)
    • A lively, open space perfect for photos and people‑watching

    It’s the symbolic center of Venice and a must‑see for every visitor.

    Why It’s Worth Visiting

    St. Mark’s Square is the perfect place to soak in the atmosphere of Venice. The architecture is breathtaking, the energy is vibrant, and the views are some of the best in the city.

    It’s also the ideal starting point for exploring:

    • St. Mark’s Basilica
    • Doge’s Palace
    • The Bridge of Sighs
    • The waterfront promenade
    • The Grand Canal area

    Whether you’re grabbing a coffee, taking photos, or simply wandering, the square feels like the beating heart of Venice.

    Best Time to Visit

    Best for: Any time Why: It’s easy to visit, even with limited time.

    That said, the best times are:

    • Early morning — quiet, soft light, perfect for photos
    • Late evening — orchestras, lights, and a romantic atmosphere

    Midday is the busiest, but still enjoyable if that’s when your schedule allows.

    How Long to Spend

    Plan for 20–30 minutes if you’re just walking through.

    Add more time if you’re visiting:

    • St. Mark’s Basilica
    • Doge’s Palace
    • St. Mark’s Campanile
    • The waterfront area

    It’s easy to spend an hour or more here without even realizing it.

    How to Get There

    St. Mark’s Square is located on the eastern end of the Grand Canal.

    You can reach it by:

    • Walking from Rialto (10–12 minutes)
    • Vaporetto Line 1 or 2 to San Marco Vallaresso or San Zaccaria

    From the cruise port (Marghera), your shuttle + boat transfer often drops you near the square or a short walk away.

    Is It Good for Cruise Day?

    Absolutely — this is one of the easiest cruise‑day stops.

    Why it works:

    • No reservations
    • No lines
    • Easy to reach
    • Perfect for photos
    • Works with any schedule

    It’s also a great place to start or end your Venice sightseeing.

    Insider Tips

    • Visit early for the best photos and fewest crowds.
    • At night, enjoy the orchestras playing outside the cafés.
    • Grab a gelato and wander the arcades for shade.
    • Pair this with St. Mark’s Basilica or Doge’s Palace for a perfect half‑day.
    • The square can flood during acqua alta — raised walkways are provided.

    Common Complaints

    • Crowds
    • Higher prices at the cafés
    • Limited shade during midday

    Still, the atmosphere makes it worth a visit at least once — and most travelers return more than once.

    Final Thoughts

    St. Mark’s Square is the heart of Venice and one of the easiest attractions to visit before or after your cruise. With stunning architecture, lively energy, and close access to major landmarks, it’s the perfect place to start your Venice adventure.

    You can explore more must‑see attractions in my full Top 20 Things to Do in Venice guide.

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  • Doge’s Palace – Venice, Italy

    Doge’s Palace – Venice, Italy

    Doge's Palace in Venice, Italy
    Doge’s Palace with the Scala dei Giganti staircase in Venice

    Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale) is one of Venice’s most spectacular landmarks — a Gothic masterpiece filled with grand halls, secret passages, and centuries of Venetian history. It’s connected to St. Mark’s Basilica and sits right on St. Mark’s Square, making it one of the most important stops for anyone exploring Venice before or after a cruise.

    This is the palace where Venice’s rulers lived, justice was served, and political decisions shaped the city for nearly 1,000 years. It’s dramatic, beautiful, and full of stories.

    What Doge’s Palace Is Known For

    Doge’s Palace is famous for:

    • Its stunning pink‑and‑white Gothic façade
    • The lavish Golden Staircase
    • Enormous frescoed halls, including the Hall of the Great Council
    • Tintoretto’s “Paradise,” one of the largest oil paintings in the world
    • The Bridge of Sighs
    • The old prison cells (including Casanova’s legendary escape)

    It’s one of Venice’s most immersive historical experiences.

    Why It’s Worth Visiting

    This is one of those attractions that surprises people. From the outside, it’s beautiful — but the inside is jaw‑dropping. The artwork, the architecture, the scale of the rooms, and the stories behind them make it unforgettable.

    It’s also incredibly close to St. Mark’s Basilica, so you can easily pair the two for a perfect half‑day.

    Best Time to Visit

    Best for: Before or after your cruise Why: The palace is large and deserves time to explore.

    You can visit on embarkation or disembarkation day, but only if you have a generous schedule. The Secret Itineraries tour, in particular, requires advance reservations and extra time.

    Pro tip: Early morning or late afternoon offers the best experience with fewer crowds.

    How Long to Spend

    Plan for 1.5 to 2 hours for the main palace. Add extra time if you want to explore:

    • The Secret Itineraries tour
    • The prisons
    • The Bridge of Sighs interior walkway

    If you’re a history lover, you could easily spend half a day here.

    How to Get There

    Doge’s Palace sits directly on St. Mark’s Square, right next to St. Mark’s Basilica.

    From most Venice hotels, you’ll walk or take a vaporetto to San Marco.

    If you’re coming from the cruise port (Marghera), your shuttle + boat transfer typically drops you near St. Mark’s or Riva degli Schiavoni — just a short walk away.

    Is It Good for Cruise Day?

    Yes, but only the exterior or a quick walk‑through.

    Most cruise excursions include:

    • A guided walk around St. Mark’s Square
    • A view of the palace exterior
    • A walk across the Bridge of Sighs (from the outside)

    They rarely include the interior, because:

    • It takes time
    • Lines can be long
    • Tours run on tight schedules

    For the full experience, it’s best to visit before or after your cruise.

    Tickets and Entry Tips

    • Book a timed entry ticket to avoid long lines.
    • The Secret Itineraries tour sells out early — reserve ahead.
    • Photography is allowed in most areas (no flash).
    • Wear comfortable shoes — there are stairs and long corridors.

    Insider Tips

    • The Golden Staircase is one of the most beautiful spots in the palace — don’t rush past it.
    • The Hall of the Great Council is enormous and unforgettable.
    • The Bridge of Sighs is more atmospheric from the inside than the outside.
    • Combine this with St. Mark’s Basilica for a seamless half‑day itinerary.

    Common Complaints

    • Crowds
    • Long lines without reservations
    • Lots of walking
    • Warm temperatures inside during summer

    All manageable with good timing and a pre‑booked ticket.

    Final Thoughts

    Doge’s Palace is one of Venice’s most impressive attractions and pairs perfectly with St. Mark’s Basilica. While cruise excursions often skip the interior, visiting on your own before or after your cruise gives you time to explore the palace’s grand halls, hidden passages, and historic prison cells at your own pace.

    If you’re planning the rest of your trip, you can head back to my full list of the Top 20 Things to Do in Venice.

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  • St. Mark’s Basilica – Venice, Italy

    St. Mark’s Basilica – Venice, Italy

    Saint Mark's basilica (Basilica di San Marco) in Venice, Italy

    St. Mark’s Basilica is the crown jewel of Venice — a shimmering masterpiece of gold mosaics, Byzantine architecture, and centuries of history. It’s the city’s most famous church and one of the most breathtaking religious sites in Europe. Whether you’re visiting Venice before your cruise, after your cruise, or squeezing in a quick stop on embarkation day, this is one landmark you don’t want to miss.

    What St. Mark’s Basilica Is Known For

    St. Mark’s Basilica (Basilica di San Marco) is Venice’s most iconic church, famous for:

    • Over 85,000 square feet of golden mosaics
    • Its unique blend of Byzantine, Gothic, and Venetian architecture
    • The Pala d’Oro, a jewel‑covered altarpiece
    • The stunning terrace overlooking St. Mark’s Square
    • Its role as the spiritual heart of Venice

    It’s one of those places where you walk in and instantly understand why millions visit each year.

    Why It’s Worth Visiting

    St. Mark’s Basilica isn’t just beautiful — it’s atmospheric. The dim lighting, glittering gold ceilings, and intricate details make it feel like stepping into another world. Even if you’ve seen photos, nothing compares to the real thing.

    It’s also incredibly central. You can pair it with Doge’s Palace, St. Mark’s Square, the Campanile, or a Grand Canal stroll.

    Best Time to Visit

    Best for: Before or after your cruise Why: Lines can be long, and the interior deserves time.

    You can visit on embarkation or disembarkation day, but only if you’re comfortable with crowds and tight timing. The basilica is much more enjoyable when you’re not rushing.

    Pro tip: Early morning or late afternoon offers the best lighting and shortest lines.

    How Long to Spend

    Plan for 45–60 minutes inside, plus extra time if you want to visit:

    • The museum
    • The terrace
    • The Pala d’Oro

    If you’re doing the full experience, allow 90 minutes.

    How to Get There

    St. Mark’s Basilica sits directly on St. Mark’s Square, the most famous piazza in Venice.

    From most hotels in Venice, you’ll walk or take a vaporetto to San Marco.

    If you’re coming from the cruise port (Marghera), you’ll arrive by shuttle + boat transfer, which typically drops you near St. Mark’s or Riva degli Schiavoni.

    Is It Good for Cruise Day?

    Yes, but only if your timing is flexible.

    Cruise excursions often include a walk‑by of St. Mark’s Basilica, but rarely include going inside because:

    • Lines can be long
    • Timed entry is required
    • Excursions run on tight schedules

    If you want to truly experience the basilica, it’s best done before or after your cruise, when you can take your time.

    Tickets and Entry Tips

    • Entry to the main basilica is free, but the museum, terrace, and Pala d’Oro require small fees.
    • Timed entry reservations are strongly recommended.
    • Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered).
    • Backpacks are not allowed inside — use the free bag check nearby.

    Insider Tips

    • The terrace offers one of the best views of St. Mark’s Square.
    • The Pala d’Oro is absolutely worth the small extra fee.
    • If you visit in the morning, the gold mosaics glow beautifully when the lights are turned on.
    • Pair this with Doge’s Palace for a perfect half‑day.

    Common Complaints

    • Long lines
    • Strict dress code
    • Crowds inside
    • Limited photography areas

    These are all manageable with good timing and a reservation.

    Final Thoughts

    If you only have time for one major attraction in Venice, make it St. Mark’s Basilica. It’s stunning, central, and easy to pair with other top sights. But to truly enjoy it — without rushing — plan to visit before or after your cruise, when you can take your time and soak in the beauty.

    If you’re planning the rest of your Venice itinerary, you can head back to my full list of the Top 20 Things to Do in Venice.

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