We're doing a quick stop in Venice on our way to Paris. Whats a must see? Thanks!

What's "quick"?

go to the "destinations" tab at the top of this page and navigate to Venice. You see the top tourist destinations listed. A good guidebook will also tell you exactly what you want to know.

A day, 24 hours at the most.

One absolute must IMO and the single most marvelous thing i've done in europe about is to take a boat ride down the Grande Canal, especially at night when the ancient pastel facades of the old palaces are gloriously and subtletly illuminated - so surreal as they silently glide by.

Regular vaporettos for a few euro will do the job or if on mega budget opt for a gondola or water taxi for a more personal tour.

I agree with ST, go to the destination tab/buy a good guide book.

This past Sunday's New York Tijmes travel section had a "36 Hours in Venice" column---you can look it up online.

If you don't want to consult a guidebook, I would simply get out and wander around. Make sure you see San Marcos square, Bridge of Sighs, the Rialto Bridge, and yes as above, a ride on a vaporetto that runs along the Grand Canal. That about covers it and could be done in one day.

You don't say when you're going but if the weather permits Piazza San Marco at night during the battle of the bands - adjoining outdoor cafes have bands playing alternately, all the songs that seem quintessentially Italian. Not much more romantic than that!

Hi K,

Please, please, please make it an overnight.

Venice can be very crowded with daytrippers. It is at its best when they have gone home.

Unless you can give it an overnite and 2 days just do not bother. People who give it one day end up not liking Venice---what a shame.

My husband and I spent just one day there (not even an overnight!)
We walked all over, over bridges, down alleys.
We also took the water taxi as far as it went just to see the sights from the water!
We had just a quick lunch at a deli type place and a more leisurely dinner.