We don't know the hotel yet but it will be centrally located, a minimum of 4 stars, selected from our list of preferred hotels & based on a 'room only' board basis. Local government city taxes & local resort fees may be payable.
Venice (Mestre) Hotel Stay - 2 Nights
We don't know the hotel yet but it will be centrally located, a minimum of 4 stars, selected from our list of preferred hotels & based on a 'room only' board basis. Local government city taxes & local resort fees may be payable.
Ship Facilities
Norwegian Star - By Norwegian Cruise Line
Family FriendlyGood For CouplesOver 50sInformalLarge Ship
Year: 01/01/2001
·
Refurbished: 2018
·
14 Decks
·
Max capacity: 2348 people
Cabins on the Norwegian Star
Select cabin
Inside
Family Inside
Inside
Sailaway Inside
Solo Inside
Outside
Family Oceanview
Obstructed Oceanview
Oceanview
Oceanview with Picture Window
Sailaway Oceanview
Solo Oceanview
Balcony
Aft-Facing Balcony
Balcony
Club Balcony Suite
Sailaway Balcony
Sailaway Club Balcony Suite
Solo Balcony
Suite
2-Bedroom Deluxe Family Suite with Balcony
3-Bedroom Garden Villa
Aft-Facing Penthouse with Balcony
Aft-Facing Penthouse with Large Balcony
Deluxe Owner's Suite
Deluxe Owner's Suite with Two Balconies
Family Suite
Forward-Facing Deluxe Penthouse with Large Balcony
Forward-Facing Penthouse with Large Balcony
Owner's Suite with Two Balconies
Penthouse with Balcony
Select cabin
Inside
Family Inside
Inside
Sailaway Inside
Solo Inside
Outside
Family Oceanview
Obstructed Oceanview
Oceanview
Oceanview with Picture Window
Sailaway Oceanview
Solo Oceanview
Balcony
Aft-Facing Balcony
Balcony
Club Balcony Suite
Sailaway Balcony
Sailaway Club Balcony Suite
Solo Balcony
Suite
2-Bedroom Deluxe Family Suite with Balcony
3-Bedroom Garden Villa
Aft-Facing Penthouse with Balcony
Aft-Facing Penthouse with Large Balcony
Deluxe Owner's Suite
Deluxe Owner's Suite with Two Balconies
Family Suite
Forward-Facing Deluxe Penthouse with Large Balcony
Forward-Facing Penthouse with Large Balcony
Owner's Suite with Two Balconies
Penthouse with Balcony
Select cabin
Inside
Family Inside
Inside
Sailaway Inside
Solo Inside
Outside
Family Oceanview
Obstructed Oceanview
Oceanview
Oceanview with Picture Window
Sailaway Oceanview
Solo Oceanview
Balcony
Aft-Facing Balcony
Balcony
Club Balcony Suite
Sailaway Balcony
Sailaway Club Balcony Suite
Solo Balcony
Suite
2-Bedroom Deluxe Family Suite with Balcony
3-Bedroom Garden Villa
Aft-Facing Penthouse with Balcony
Aft-Facing Penthouse with Large Balcony
Deluxe Owner's Suite
Deluxe Owner's Suite with Two Balconies
Family Suite
Forward-Facing Deluxe Penthouse with Large Balcony
Forward-Facing Penthouse with Large Balcony
Owner's Suite with Two Balconies
Penthouse with Balcony
View images
2-Bedroom Deluxe Family Suite with Balcony
Sleeping up to six, this is perfect for the whole family, with living area, separate children's room and a large balcony
574 square feet
Norwegian Star deck plan
Key
S1
Garden Villa
S2
Garden Villa
S3
Garden Villa
S4
Garden Villa
View images
3-Bedroom Garden Villa
With plenty of space inside and suite service, the highlight here is the private garden with hot tub, dining area and terrace
6694 square feet
Norwegian Star deck plan
Key
S1
Garden Villa
S2
Garden Villa
S3
Garden Villa
S4
Garden Villa
View images
Aft-Facing Balcony
A great option for those who love the views and sense of occasion as you sail away from each iconic port
262 square feet
Norwegian Star deck plan
Key
B1
Aft-Facing Balcony
View images
Aft-Facing Penthouse with Balcony
Here you'll be truly spoilt with unparalleled views from the aft-facing balcony plus butler and concierge services
368 square feet
Norwegian Star deck plan
Key
SF
Aft-Facing Penthouse with Large Balcony
SM
Aft-Facing Penthouse with Large Balcony
SN
Aft-Facing Penthouse with Large Balcony
View images
Aft-Facing Penthouse with Large Balcony
The perfect romantic getaway with unparalleled views from the aft-facing balcony plus butler and concierge services
396 square feet
Norwegian Star deck plan
Key
SF
Aft-Facing Penthouse with Large Balcony
SM
Aft-Facing Penthouse with Large Balcony
SN
Aft-Facing Penthouse with Large Balcony
View images
Balcony
Escape to luxury in your balcony cabin where comfort meets breathtaking views. Your private retreat at sea awaits!
303 square feet
Norwegian Star deck plan
Key
BA
Mid-Ship Balcony
BX
Mid-Ship Balcony
View images
Club Balcony Suite
Room for up to four guests with lower and upper berths, plus a sitting area, luxury bath with shower, and great balcony views
283 square feet
Norwegian Star deck plan
Key
MA
Mini-Suite with Balcony
MB
Mini-Suite with Balcony
MX
Mini-Suite with Balcony
View images
Deluxe Owner's Suite
Take in the views via the expansive wall of windows while enjoying the ample living space and exclusive butler services
732 square feet
Norwegian Star deck plan
Key
SA
Deluxe Owner’s Suite
S6
Deluxe Owner’s Suite
View images
Deluxe Owner's Suite with Two Balconies
What's better than taking in the views from a balcony complete with butler service and other perks? Enjoying them from two!
900 square feet
Norwegian Star deck plan
Key
S1
Garden Villa
S2
Garden Villa
S3
Garden Villa
S4
Garden Villa
View images
Family Inside
With more living space and sleeping room, this cabin is the perfect base for multigenerational adventures
151 square feet
Norwegian Star deck plan
Key
I1
Family Inside
I4
Family Inside
View images
Family Oceanview
Room for up to four guests with two sets of lower and upper berths and a big picture window to enjoy the view
159 square feet
Norwegian Star deck plan
Key
O1
Family Oceanview Picture Window
O4
Family Oceanview Picture Window
View images
Family Suite
Sleeping up to six, here you can treat the gang to a luxury get away like no other!
495 square feet
Norwegian Star deck plan
Key
SJ
Family Suite
SP
Family Suite
View images
Forward-Facing Deluxe Penthouse with Large Balcony
Boasting incredible views from the forward balcony, plus living and dining areas to relax in or enjoy a meal via your butler
513 square feet
Norwegian Star deck plan
Key
SE
Penthouse Suite with Balcony
SF
Penthouse Suite with Balcony
SG
Penthouse Suite with Balcony
SD
Penthouse Suite with Balcony
View images
Forward-Facing Penthouse with Large Balcony
Enjoy a large, forward balcony for magnificent views, plus concierge and butler service to fulfil all your wishes
587 square feet
Norwegian Star deck plan
Key
SF
Aft-Facing Penthouse with Large Balcony
SM
Aft-Facing Penthouse with Large Balcony
SN
Aft-Facing Penthouse with Large Balcony
View images
Inside
If on a budget and you just need somewhere cosy to rest after a long day of exploring, an inside cabin is the place for you
276 square feet
Norwegian Star deck plan
Key
IA
Mid-Ship Inside
IB
Mid-Ship Inside
IE
Mid-Ship Inside
View images
Obstructed Oceanview
These cabins have a structure or lifeboat blocking the views out to sea so are typically at a reduced rate
195 square feet
Norwegian Star deck plan
Key
OK
Obstructed Oceanview
View images
Oceanview
Unwind in our Oceanview cabins, offering captivating views and exceptional value for an unforgettable cruise experience
159 square feet
Norwegian Star deck plan
Key
OF
Mid-Ship Oceanview Porthole Window
View images
Oceanview with Picture Window
Unwind in our Oceanview cabins, offering captivating views and exceptional value for an unforgettable cruise experience
159 square feet
Norwegian Star deck plan
Key
OA
Mid-Ship Oceanview Picture Window
OB
Mid-Ship Oceanview Picture Window
View images
Owner's Suite with Two Balconies
What's better than taking in the views from a balcony complete with butler service and other perks? Enjoying them from two!
721 square feet
Norwegian Star deck plan
Key
S1
Garden Villa
S2
Garden Villa
S3
Garden Villa
S4
Garden Villa
View images
Penthouse with Balcony
Sleeping up to four thanks to a sofa bed in the living area, you can all enjoy being pampered by a butler and concierge too
409 square feet
Norwegian Star deck plan
Key
SC
2-Bedroom Family Suite with Balcony
View images
Sailaway Balcony
A guaranteed cabin ensures you get that grade or better, with cabin position usually confirmed shortly prior to departure
203 square feet
Norwegian Star deck plan
Key
BB
Balcony
BC
Balcony
BD
Balcony
BX
Balcony
BF
Balcony
View images
Sailaway Club Balcony Suite
A guaranteed cabin ensures you get that grade or better, with cabin position usually confirmed shortly prior to departure
283 square feet
Norwegian Star deck plan
Key
MA
Mini-Suite with Balcony
MB
Mini-Suite with Balcony
MX
Mini-Suite with Balcony
View images
Sailaway Inside
A guaranteed cabin ensures you get that grade or better, with cabin position usually confirmed shortly prior to departure
142 square feet
Norwegian Star deck plan
Key
IC
Inside
ID
Inside
IF
Inside
IX
Inside
View images
Sailaway Oceanview
A guaranteed cabin ensures you get that grade or better, with cabin position usually confirmed shortly prior to departure
To book an accessible cabin, please give us a call
020 3991 1166
Customer reviews for Norwegian Star
4.2
Based on 47 reviews
Cabin
4.1
Service
4.3
Excursions
4
Dining
4.3
Activities
4.1
Value for money
4.3
Entertainment
4.2
Great trip with fabulous sites.
couple
10+ cruisesInside
26 Jan 2024
Staff so friendly and helpful. Well organised excursions with such knowledgeable guides. No queueing to get on and off ship. We did miss having lectures on various topics as on other cruise lines and at sea days no films showing.
Overall an excellent cruise.
couple
10+ cruisesSailaway Club Balcony Suite
8 Nov 2023
Fabulous time but our room, although very good for an interior cabin, was located underneath the galley of the Garden Cafe. This made it noisy during the night. As we booked last minute we will do our research as to location of room next time.
Apart from that food, stops, entertainment all very good. Would travel again with NCL.
couple
10+ cruisesSailaway Inside
15 Oct 2023
I was really impressed with Norwegian Cruises. The staff, food and entertainment really stood out. It was such a shame that we got caught up in the hurricane and could not stop at three of the stops due to the weather conditions. My only comment would be that it would have been better if the cruise line had explained earlier about the cause of the banging in our cabins caused by the extreme weather, as it was quite frightening.
All offers and prices are subject to change and availability at time of enquiry. Prices are based on two passengers sharing unless otherwise stated and are subject to the Tour Operator's terms and conditions. Cabin and Flight supplements may apply. Other supplements may apply in addition to the price shown above. Flight details, timings and routing may be subject to alteration. Other tour operator charges may also apply. Any Onboard Spending money or drinks package value shown will be per cabin, again based on two sharing.
Note: On 13 January 2018, new European legislation is being adopted in the UK which as result will mean that we may change our required method of payment at our discretion, irrespective of how any deposit or prior payment was made.
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We can tailor any package to suit your holiday needs: Add or extend hotel stays, arrange flights and find the best cabin location for you.
One of the most idyllic locations in Italy, ‘Lake Garda’ conjures up images of perfectly blue, peaceful waters, beautiful dominating mountain scenes, and quaint streets with pastel coloured buildings. It’s a fabulous destination to simply relax and breathe deeply, enjoying a glass of wine and some wonderful Italian food with amazing views at every turn. In addition to the picturesque tranquillity, the Lake Garda area also boasts some interesting sites to go and explore. These include the Roman ruins, ‘Grotte di Catullo’, and Castello Scaligero.
Train - Desenzano Del Garda to Venice Mestre:
Sirmione and Castello Scaligeri
The beautiful Comune of Sirmione has had a varied and interesting history, in part due to its strategic position at the south of Lake Garda. One of the main landmarks in the area is the Castello Scaligero, whose history is widely disputed. People have claimed that the castle was built as far back as the late BC years however other historians have rebuffed this. What is known is that the noble Scaliger family of Verona were owners by the mid-13th century, and they made renovations to turn it into a fortress to protect the commune.
Grotte di Catullo: ruins of Roman Villa
To the south of Lake Garda is Grotte di Catullo – sometimes referred to as the Catullus Caves. These are the remains of an ancient Roman villa, which date back to around the first century BC into the first century AD. The complex has been named after the poet Gaius Valerius Catullus (84-54 BC) of Verona, because his poem – Carmen 31 – is believed to be a reflection on Sirmione, where the ruins are situated. Today visitors can explore the museum and find other Roman relics in the close by museum.
Desenzano del Garda
This pretty town on the south coast of Lake Garda has been a popular spot for visitors for centuries. In fact it is believed that the wealthy families of Verona holidayed here as early as the first century AD, when many Romans had mansions in the area. As well as stunning scenery, things to see here include a medieval castle, Roman ruins, and a wonderful antique market.
Riva del Garda
A beautiful town found on Lake Garda’s northern coast, Riva del Garda is sometime called the ‘Jewel of Lake Garda’. The place offers some incredible views, not only of the lake but also of the Gruppo di Brenta mountain range. Explore the intricate network of streets, and see sights including the Torre Apponale – a 13th century clock tower which was once connected by an underground tunnel to the historic Rocca di Riva fortress.
Venice
DAY 6
The ‘floating city’ of Venice has romantic connotations all over the world. Known for picturesque canals, colourful buildings, gentle gondola rides, good food, and an ample supply of history, this is one Italian destination that sits on many a bucket list. See magnificent architecture in St Mark’s Square, the fascinating Doge’s Palace, St Mark’s Basilica, and the famous Bridge of Sighs. After soaking in centuries of history, be sure to make time to simply watch the world go by with a world-class cup of coffee and a piece of tiramisu, or indeed an indulgent glass of wine and pasta dish.
Things to do in Venice:
Giudecca Island
Located in the Venetian lagoon, Giudecca Island is a small, attractive resort offering some lovely cafes, bars, and restaurants as well as pretty architecture. Over the years it has had a varied history, having been the home to some grand palaces and gardens, before becoming a centre of industry in the 20th century, particularly during World War II. One 16th century mansion has been converted into a beautiful luxury villa.
St. Mark's Square
Piazza San Marco – or St Mark’s Square – is the main square in Venice. It is one of the main attractions, and has had a vibrant role in Venetian history, having been a centre of politics, commerce, and religion over the years. Today it is one of Venice’s main attractions, being surrounded by beautiful architecture on all sides – including the magnificent Basilica di San Marco.
Bridge of Sighs
This well-known, historic piece of architecture joins Venice’s prisons to Doge’s Palace – or more accurately, the interrogation rooms in the palace. Legend says that when prisoners of the 17th century crossed the bridge into the prison, they sighed at their last view of Venice – hence the name. Today the bridge also has romantic significance, with local lore saying that lovers who kiss beneath the bridge in a gondola will have a love that lasts forever.
Doge's Palace
From the late 7th century until the late 18th, Venice had a system of doges, who acted as elected leaders of the region. Doge’s Palace – now known as Palazzo Ducale – was built in the 14th century as a residence for the doge, and for other political bodies. It was a venue used for debates, a court of law, grand events such as balls, and even had prison cells on the ground floor. The beautiful palace is located in Piazza San Marco, and was opened to visitors in 1923.
Island of Burano
Within Venice’s lagoon is the picturesque island of Burano, well known for its colourful buildings and pretty canals. First inhabited in the 6th century, Burano has long been a small fishing community, which rose in prominence with the production of lace in the 16th century – a tradition it is still known for today. Burano is a gorgeous spot to wander around, enjoy a gelato, and browse the fabulous range of intricate lace work which is available to purchase in varying forms.
Ravenna
DAY 7
In Italy's Emilia-Romagna region sits the beautiful and historic city of Ravenna. It is well-known for the vibrant mosaics that cover many of its key structures, including the cross-shaped Mausoleo di Galla Placidia, the sixth-century Basilica di Sant'Apollinare Nuovo, and the octagonal Basilica di San Vitale. Located in the centre of the city is the Mausoleo di Teodorico, a circular Gothic stone tomb that was constructed in the sixth century for King Theodoric the Great.
Things to do in Ravenna:
Basilica di San Vitale
Italy's Ravenna is home to the Basilica of San Vitale, which houses Christian Byzantine art and architecture. Dating back to the sixth-century church, it's one of eight Ravenna buildings that have been included as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Ravenna Art Museum
This museum is one of the hubs of the city's cultural life, hosting festivals, exhibits, and collections of both modern and ancient art. It is housed in a 16th-century monastery in the Public Gardens and is responsible for resuming cultural and recreational activities in addition to significant conservation and research projects.
Basilica di Sant' Apollinare Nuovo
In Ravenna, Italy, there is a basilica church called the Basilica of Sant'Apollinare Nuovo. Theodoric the Great, the Ostrogothic ruler, built it as his royal chapel in the first half of the sixth century and it was originally consecrated to "Christ the Redeemer" in 504 AD.
Olympia (Katakolon)
DAY 9
The sleepy seaside village of Katakolon is perhaps one of the biggest tourist highlights of Greece, thanks to its close proximity to Ancient Olympia. With sparkling turquoise waters, numerous traditional tavernas and the warmth of a friendly, local community, Katakolon is the perfect place to explore on foot in the sunshine, where you’ll find museums, bars, restaurants and souvenir shops, as well as horse-drawn carriage rides and even a Beer Bike!
Things to do in Olympia (Katakolon):
Olympia Museum
Home to over 463 ancient works, this museum is rich with fascinating history and culture of Ancient Greece. Featuring exhibits covering the second millennium BC until the 5th century AD, you’ll find pieces that were used throughout the ancient Olympic Games.
Archaeological Site of Olympia
Featuring excavations from the Bronze age to the Byzantine era, this huge site provides an impressive insight into the history of Ancient Greece. You'll find sites such as the Ancient Stadium where the Olympic Games were held, the Temple of Hera, and the Temple of Zeus.
The Temple of Zeus
The beautiful ruins of The Temple of Zeus is a major historical site. Despite it being destroyed it still is a fantastic portal to the past giving you a major insight into the gods of old.
Archimedes’ Museum
This fantastic free museum is dedicated to the physicist, engineer, inventor and astronomer, Archimedes of Syracuse. Home to just some of his inventions and reconstructions, it’s well worth a visit, especially for those curious about his expert creations.
Archaeological Museum
Just a short walk from the archaeological site, the Archaeological Museum hosts artefacts that were discovered in Olympia. With over 3,500 years of history to discover, this small but fascinating museum will take you back in time to Ancient Greece.
Athens (Piraeus)
DAY 10
Just a short distance from Athens, Piraeus is the biggest port in the Mediterranean and sees over 20 million cruisers each year. This port city is a perfect example of life by the sea, boasting an impressive harbour and authentic seafood dining, as well as the rich and fascinating history of ancient Greece. Whether you’re looking to discover archaeological findings or just want to relax in the sun at a friendly café, Piraeus is the place to be.
Things to do in Athens (Piraeus):
Agia Triada Church
Despite being a modern construction, Agia Triada features Byzantine architecture as well as an impressive dome that is visible from every spot within the church. Overlooking the port of Piraeus, Agia Triada is a must visit to discover the history of the town and take in the tranquillity.
Castella
This vibrant and colourful district is nestled on top of a hill with views out over the bay. A walk around this neighbourhood will take you to quaint cafes, neoclassical architecture, Prophet Elias church and the Veakeion outdoor theatre.
Archaeological Museum
Covering the Mycenaean period to the Roman era, the Piraeus Archaeological Museum offers artefacts excavated from Piraeus’ landscape, as well as collections donated from other sites. Visitors will discover monuments, statues, artwork and more.
Hellas Liberty
One of only three surviving Liberty ships, the SS Hellas Liberty is a fascinating vessel to explore. This floating maritime museum was presented to the public in 2010 and covers a range of exhibits people of all ages will enjoy.
Zea Bay
With stunning views of the Saronic Gulf and the beautiful vessels moored in the harbour, the bay of Zea is the perfect place to go for a walk, enjoy a delicious coffee and take in the sunshine. You’ll find many hidden gems here, including ancient walls.
Kotor
DAY 12
Nestled among the mountains, Kotor provides the setting for a picturesque cruise holiday. A walk around Old Town Budva will take you past timeless architecture, while San Giovanni Castle has the best photo opportunities. Kotor is not just for relaxing and scenic strolls though, with Aquapark Budva providing a fun-filled day for all the family. Don’t forget to stop by the many charming eateries in between for an authentic taste of Kotor cuisine too.
Things to do in Kotor:
Jaz Beach
If you are looking for a secluded beach tucked away in serenity by beautiful rock coves, head to Jaz Beach where you’ll be able to sunbathe and relax.
St Tryphon’s Cathedral
After being restored numerous times following earthquakes, St Tryphon’s Cathedral continues to represent the expertise of Roman architecture. With many stunning artefacts and decorations, this cathedral is well worth exploring.
Lovćen National Park
A short drive from Kotor, Lovćen National Park is home to imposing mountains including the spectacular Mount Lovćen standing 1,749 metres high. With no shortage of outdoor adventures to discover, visitors will love quad biking and zip lining in particular.
Old Town
With countless boutiques, authentic eateries, and bars as well as a quaint museum teeming with ancient artefacts, Old Town Budva is a delightful place to explore. Enjoy dessert from a charming bakery, admire the view from the citadel and bask in the peace and quiet.
San Giovanni Castle
After climbing 1,350 stairs to a height of 1,200 metres you’ll find this impressive fortress built between the 9th and 19th centuries. With Byzantine and Venetian roots, this structure is beautifully preserved and teeming with fascinating history to discover.
Aquapark Buvda
Nestled in lush surroundings with views over the town nearby, Aquapark Budva is perfect for spending a hot afternoon cooling off. The park features multiple pools and waterslides to suit a range of ages, as well as a restaurant, bars, shops and lockers.
Split
DAY 13
As Croatia’s second-largest city, Split is an integral tourist hotspot in the Adriatic Sea. The unique setting of coastal mountains and bright blue ocean makes for the perfect backdrop to a cruise holiday, while the city itself has a very homely, local feel. Stroll past high-rise, rustic apartments and discover the many hidden gems and highlights such as Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that will leave you in awe.
Things to do in Split:
Diocletians Palace
As one of the most well-preserved sites of Roman architecture in the world, it’s no wonder this fortress is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Now home to many shops, restaurants and apartments, the palace is a beautiful place to wander, day or night.
Krka National Park
Home to breath-taking waterfalls and lush, thriving forest, Krka National Park is a must visit for lovers of the outdoors. Discover over 800 species of plant life, over 200 species of bird and 18 species of bat, as well as the tiny island of Visovac.
Peristil Square
The central square of the palace, Peristil Square was once the perfect space for opera theatre and now provides the scenery for a delicious cup of coffee. Towering above is the 57-metre belfry where, once climbing the steps, visitors will find gorgeous views across town.
St Duje's Cathedral
This excellent example of beautifully-preserved ancient Roman architecture is where you’ll find the bell tower, treasury and even a crypt. Built in the 4th century, it houses many artefacts, sculptures , carvings and murals.
Marjan Hill
For breath-taking views out across the city, Marjan Park is the place to be. The walk up from Old Town Split is fairly easy, and visitors will find a café as well as the lookout point. From here, you can continue the hike to the Church of St Nicholas, a beautiful, small stone church.
Campanile Bell Tower
Built in 1100 AD, this beautiful Romanesque bell tower stands at 60 metres tall with sweeping views of the city and mountains. Though this landmark may not be for the faint of heart, climbing the many steps is well worth it to admire the landscape at the top.
Klis Fortress
A must visit for fans of the hit series, Game of Thrones, Klis Fortress is well worth a visit just for the spectacular views alone. With over two thousand years of history, the ruins are fascinating to explore for all ages and provide fantastic photo opportunities.
Venice
DAY 14
The ‘floating city’ of Venice has romantic connotations all over the world. Known for picturesque canals, colourful buildings, gentle gondola rides, good food, and an ample supply of history, this is one Italian destination that sits on many a bucket list. See magnificent architecture in St Mark’s Square, the fascinating Doge’s Palace, St Mark’s Basilica, and the famous Bridge of Sighs. After soaking in centuries of history, be sure to make time to simply watch the world go by with a world-class cup of coffee and a piece of tiramisu, or indeed an indulgent glass of wine and pasta dish.
Things to do in Venice:
Giudecca Island
Located in the Venetian lagoon, Giudecca Island is a small, attractive resort offering some lovely cafes, bars, and restaurants as well as pretty architecture. Over the years it has had a varied history, having been the home to some grand palaces and gardens, before becoming a centre of industry in the 20th century, particularly during World War II. One 16th century mansion has been converted into a beautiful luxury villa.
St. Mark's Square
Piazza San Marco – or St Mark’s Square – is the main square in Venice. It is one of the main attractions, and has had a vibrant role in Venetian history, having been a centre of politics, commerce, and religion over the years. Today it is one of Venice’s main attractions, being surrounded by beautiful architecture on all sides – including the magnificent Basilica di San Marco.
Bridge of Sighs
This well-known, historic piece of architecture joins Venice’s prisons to Doge’s Palace – or more accurately, the interrogation rooms in the palace. Legend says that when prisoners of the 17th century crossed the bridge into the prison, they sighed at their last view of Venice – hence the name. Today the bridge also has romantic significance, with local lore saying that lovers who kiss beneath the bridge in a gondola will have a love that lasts forever.
Doge's Palace
From the late 7th century until the late 18th, Venice had a system of doges, who acted as elected leaders of the region. Doge’s Palace – now known as Palazzo Ducale – was built in the 14th century as a residence for the doge, and for other political bodies. It was a venue used for debates, a court of law, grand events such as balls, and even had prison cells on the ground floor. The beautiful palace is located in Piazza San Marco, and was opened to visitors in 1923.
Island of Burano
Within Venice’s lagoon is the picturesque island of Burano, well known for its colourful buildings and pretty canals. First inhabited in the 6th century, Burano has long been a small fishing community, which rose in prominence with the production of lace in the 16th century – a tradition it is still known for today. Burano is a gorgeous spot to wander around, enjoy a gelato, and browse the fabulous range of intricate lace work which is available to purchase in varying forms.