Venice Few cities capture the heart of all that set foot on its shores like the city of Venice. With no cars, the easiest way to get around is on foot or via the canals on a water bus.

Certainly the most famous sight in Venice (where there are almost many pigeons as there are tourists) is St Mark’s Square with its well-known Basilica, followed closely by the stunning Rialto Bridge. Do a tour of Doge’s Palace, where legendary lover Casanova was once held captive before learning the story of the Palace’s Bridge of Sighs. Take a romantic gondola ride up the Grand Canal before sipping on a peach Bellini at the renowned Harry’s Bar.

Take a guided tour of three of Venice lagoon’s popular islands – Murano, Burano and Torcello. Murano is famous for its Venetian glass. Burano is a picturesque little fishing village where each of the houses are painted a different colour and is known for its intricate lace. Torcello’s main draw-card is the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta with its stunning byzantine mosaics and the 11th century Church of Santa Fosca. To see a side of Venice that few day-tripping tourists do, spend a few nights here.

Once you’ve seen the main attractions in this enchanting city, get off the well-beaten tourist trail and stroll aimlessly through backstreets and cobblestone alleyways, cross some of the lesser known bridges and explore the emptier canals. The city is at its most serene and arguably most beautiful between sunset and sunrise, and those lucky enough to see it during this time will be spellbound by its charms.