Venice - a city of romance and lagoons - is located in northeastern Italy, in the Veneto region, and has been part of the UNESCO World Heritage since 1979. The Venetian Lagoon has been inhabited since Roman times by fishermen. In the first half of the 5th century AD, the lagoon began to attract more residents from nearby cities and villages seeking refuge from barbarian invasions. Venice was officially founded on March 25, 421.
During the Middle Ages, Venice became an important port city on the Adriatic Sea, thriving on the trade of silk and spices. It was a true hub of art in Europe and a major cultural center. In modern times, the city experienced a decline and lost its political independence under Napoleonic rule. Nevertheless, it emerged as one of the most elegant and culturally influential cities in Europe. Venice became part of Italy in 1866. Today, it is visited by over 14 million tourists annually, known as a city of art, masks, doges, and gondolas, making it one of the most famous tourist destinations in the world.
Main tourist attractions in Venice include:
St. Mark's Square (Piazza San Marco) – considered one of the most beautiful squares in the world, hosting St. Mark's Basilica, the Doge's Palace, and the basilica’s bell tower.
Palazzo Vendramin-Calergi - a famous Renaissance palace built around 1500.
Santa Maria della Salute Church – home to artworks by Titian and Tintoretto.
Rialto Bridge – a stone bridge with arches, offering some of the most stunning views of Venice.
St. Mark's Basilica – the most imposing Venetian church, filled over time with treasures brought from all corners of the world, especially from the East.
Visitors can enjoy gondola rides, take the elevator to the top of St. Mark’s Campanile, the city’s tallest building at 99 meters, stroll through the narrow Venetian streets, or embark on a cruise along the Grand Canal aboard a vaporetto, admiring breathtaking views, Venetian palaces, churches, and picturesque bridges.
Notable events:
The most famous annual event is the Venetian Carnival, which features colorful masks and period costumes in a magical atmosphere. Other major events include:
Venice International Film Festival (August-September) on Lido Island.
Regata Storica (September), a beloved Venetian tradition.
Venice Art Festival, which harmoniously combines music, theater, cinema, painting, sculpture, and photography.
Isole in Rete, a celebration of the islands in the northern Venetian lagoon.
Many airlines operate flights to Venice, including Carpatair, Tarom, KLM, Air France, Lufthansa, Austrian Airlines, ITA Airways, Wizz air, Ryanair, British Airways, and others.