A vacation in Venice, Italy is like going to another world. Without even discussing the ancient engineering feat it took to build, Venice is a stunning land of pastels and reflections. There’s a welcoming environment, crowds of happy people having the same experience. More than just the canals and gondolas, mainland Venice and the various small islands have much to offer as well. See the art of hand-blown glass on the island of Murano, head over to St. Marco square and be covered by pigeons, or relax and enjoy an authentic Italian coffee which is basically espresso; if you want what we drink here you have to ask for Americano!
5See St. Marco’s Square
Piazza St. Marco is home to the iconic St. Marco Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, and the Campanile, St. Marco’s famous clock tower. The square (piazza) is enormous, and the ground floor of the basilica is lined with every kind of shop you can imagine. Tours are conducted for all three structures, with tickets available at the Campanile. The square is particularly interesting during off-season when it is likely to flood. Wooden sidewalks are placed all around so you can still walk the perimeter. One of the biggest attractions is actually free. Pigeons gather there in huge flocks, and they’re not adverse to begging. They will actually perch all over you if you stand still with your arms out. It is truly a rare sight to see people covered in pigeons, especially if one decides to go for the high ground and stands on your head.
