Venice: first encounter

The Venice you have seen on postcards, and so much more! This city needs no introduction, but seeing it in photos and feeling it in person are two very different things.

Join me for a walk through the city’s most famous corners, where every palace, bridge and square hides an incredible story. We’ll stroll through the heart of Venice and talk about the power of the Venetian Republic, its wealth, political intrigues, love affairs and the secrets that stayed behind closed palace doors for centuries.

What we’ll see

• St Mark’s Square. The most beautiful drawing room in Europe, where doges, ambassadors, merchants and travellers met.
• St Mark’s Basilica. Eastern splendour, golden mosaics and the story of the saint whose relics the Venetians brought from Alexandria.
• Doge’s Palace. The residence of the rulers of a mighty republic, where the fates of states were decided, justice was done and intrigues were woven.
• Bridge of Sighs. Its name hides a story far less romantic than many people think.
• Rialto. The commercial heart of old Venice, where the fate of vast fortunes was once decided.
• Narrow streets and canals. To feel the real atmosphere of the city and see it beyond the postcards.

Along the way you’ll hear stories of doges, courtesans, merchants, spies and famous Venetians. You’ll find out why Venice stands on wooden piles, how the most powerful maritime republic of the Mediterranean worked and why Venetians considered themselves special for centuries.

If you wish, the route can include a visit to St Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace.

Venice begins with the first step. Let me make it unforgettable!