See my first day in Venice here: Italian Trip Stage One: Venice
On my second day in Venice, I woke early for a stroll through Piazza San Marco. The square is Venice’s main attraction. One look and it’s easy to see why. There is the beautiful St. Mark’s Basilica with its great arches and elaborate marble statues. Above another high arch is St. Mark’s Clocktower. Standing close together is the massive belltower (Campanile) and the Loggetta del Sansovino. The latter is a small, but beautiful building used as a lobby for the Doge’s Palace, which sits not far off. I could drone on and on about the numerous sites, each with a history as elaborate as their appearance. Instead I’ll let you look at some pictures.
After my stroll, I attended a tour of a Murano glass factory. If you’re into glass jewelry and sculptures, this might be for you. Personally, I don’t have much interest. Not to mention, I found the tour short and underwhelming. Even so, it was cool to see a master create a glass vase in just a couple minutes.
Following the glass factory, I headed south to Venice’s best art museums: the Gallerie dell’Accademia and the Peggy Guggenheim Collection. Although not as famous as the Accademia in Florence, Venice’s Accademia was still a marvelous example of Italian art through the ages. The Guggenheim is a mixed collection of art from all over the world. Although it doesn’t focus on Italy in particular, the collection showcases works from all the big names in art, from Picasso to Pollack. Chances are you’ll find something you like at both of these museums.
The day ended with dinner and another stroll through the city. I haven’t seen all of Italy, but Venice was one of my favorite Italian cities. Every canal offers a stunning view. I could spend all day walking and never grow tired.
He Who Wanders 