I agree that Venice is unique, which is why I'll go back there if my hubby wants to visit. We will be traveling by train and would most likely fly out of Venice if we add it to our itinerary.

This is where we stayed, we loved it.

http://www.caangeli.net/

I think the train takes a whole day from Grindelwald, so plan accordingly ~ to me, this means add more days, makes the airline costs more effective (my husband loves this rationale!)

Deb15July,

Le Cinque Terre is now overrun. If you would like to enjoy the beauty of the Italian Riviera and take a peek at le Cinque Terre, then book in Moneglia or Sestri Levante to share space with Italians and not mainly foreign tourists.

Thanks for the suggestions steve...I'll look into those locations.

wren,
The hotel you stayed in looks lovely. If I return to Venice, I'd have a hard time not staying at the same place I stayed with my daughter back in 2006. It was on a quiet canal tucked behind St. Marks Square. Super convenient!

http://www.locandaorseolo.com/

Deb, Locanda Orseolo was a place we also considered ~ but I wanted to KNOW I was in Venice and be on the Grand Canal. The activity and life on the Grand Canal was fascinating to watch. I love quiet places in the country, but on our first trip to Venice, I wanted VENICE!

Good point wren!