2 days in Venice....

Venice is one of the most interesting and lovely places in the world, I personally have never been there so far, but I sure would like to visit someday.

This sanctuary on a lagoon is virtually the same as it was six hundred years ago, which adds to the fascinating character. Venice has decayed since its heyday and is heavily touristed but the romantic charm remains.

*Rialto food markets*

Of course Venice’s shopping is amongst the best, with glossy boutiques and delis lining every walkway. Yet for a truly unique Italian experience you must head over the Rialto bridge to the daily fruit and veg market and the fish stalls that appear most days too. Here you’ll find produce so fresh and sometimes exotic, plus, there’s bars and cafes a plenty to sit and take in the sights and sounds. This is a truly traditional experience in which to get totally immersed!


*Hunt for the best restaurants*

Venice’s best restaurants are off the beaten track and not near the tourist traps. So leave the designer facades behind because for great value food that the locals love you have to get a little adventurous. Even the darkest of alleyways may lead to the most beautiful courtyard, littered with bistro tables and candlelight. The area between Rialto and St Marks Square provides some of the best while a Prosecco Bellini aperitif and a seafood risotto are a must off any menu.

*Try one of Venice’s many street bars*

One of our favourite street bars, or ‘holes in the wall’ is down a tiny street off of Salita Pio X, heading towards the city from the Rialto Bridge. Following signs to St Mark’s Square, look left immediately after the bridge and you’ll see locals and travellers alike tumbling on to the street, listening to live music from the charming little bar and its efficient serving window! Visitors have scribed their memories all over the walls whilst the super-helpful staff will advise on the best wine from their exquisite menu and the right cured meats and cheeses to sample with it. The place is no more than five metres square but the experience will be worth its weight in gold.

*Discover hidden gems and craftsman*

Italy is undoubtedly the home of true craftsmanship and there’s a couple of areas to explore where age old traditions are practiced in their droves. We love the area south of the canal for its galleries and stores showcasing Murano glass creations by local artisans.
The area around Palazzo Contarini Minelli dal Bovolo and Campo Manin is the place to find leather with some of the major fashion houses still commissioning cobblers in the area.

Reference: www.oliviapalermo.com