What must we see in our 2 days in Venice?
Dec 28th, 2010, 12:14 PM
#22
Why is it "weird" to say what each of us chose to do in Venice? Why is that "wasting" someone's time? Obviously at least one person enjoyed their own suggestions.
If they wanted the standard list of places, they can read a guidebook easy enough.
If they wanted the standard list of places, they can read a guidebook easy enough.
Dec 28th, 2010, 12:35 PM
#23
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This sounds like a fabulous trip for your family. We bought tons (or at least many pounds-worth) of books on Italy before we went and wound up using one almost constantly while we were there, called Italy: Instructions for Use by Nan McElroy. It's a small, pocket size book with just enough info that it's not overwhelming. Your kids might actually like it too. We got to meet Nan on our trip and she's lovely (formerly from Atlanta, she lives in Venice now).
Have a great time!
Have a great time!
Dec 28th, 2010, 12:56 PM
#24
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Agree with most other posters, but need to add the Pesaro Madonna to the list of Frari's treasures.
You don't want to OD on churches, but consider adding San Giorgio Maggiore and of course Salute to sights and dropping the more obscure ones. Salute is quick and easy. SGM has the bell tower across the Canal from San Marco with the view. The kids will like that.
I hope you're staying in Venice proper.
I know it's touristy but they might also enjoy glassblowing on Murano.
Definitely walk around at night. Extremely atmospheric.
Remember that Venice is really small and easy to get around. Also remember that if you don't get lost at least once, you haven't experienced Venice.
You don't want to OD on churches, but consider adding San Giorgio Maggiore and of course Salute to sights and dropping the more obscure ones. Salute is quick and easy. SGM has the bell tower across the Canal from San Marco with the view. The kids will like that.
I hope you're staying in Venice proper.
I know it's touristy but they might also enjoy glassblowing on Murano.
Definitely walk around at night. Extremely atmospheric.
Remember that Venice is really small and easy to get around. Also remember that if you don't get lost at least once, you haven't experienced Venice.
Dec 28th, 2010, 03:33 PM
#25
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Another sight kids might enjoy in the gondola workshop at San Tommaso: http://www.ricksteves.com/plan/desti...y/gondolas.htm
An alternative to taking a taxi boat or a bus from the airport is the Alilaguna, sort of like a shuttle boat that goes to various fixed stops around Venice: http://europeforvisitors.com/venice/...ater-taxis.htm
An alternative to taking a taxi boat or a bus from the airport is the Alilaguna, sort of like a shuttle boat that goes to various fixed stops around Venice: http://europeforvisitors.com/venice/...ater-taxis.htm
Jan 1st, 2011, 09:59 AM
#26
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Thanks everyone....I am going to tackle checking out your suggestions. I think none are weird!!!!! I find info like this so valuable. I think networking is amazing and have been fortunate with answers and going by the word of others....Grazie!
Jan 1st, 2011, 11:09 PM
#27
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Andrea, a book that I bought here - but I wish I'd had it before we came - is "Secret Venice" by Thomas Jonglez and Paola Zoffoli.It lists a couple of hundred "things" in Venice that none of the guide books mention. I've been trailing all over Venice looking at things that I'd otherwise not noticed.
A random selection:
The"meaning" of the three flagpoles in front of St. Marks.
The symbology in Canova's funeral monument in the Frari.
The pink columns on the Doge's palace.
The narrative of the capitals of the columns of the palace.
The only underground canal in Venice (accessable by gondola if you want to make one of those guys richer or have your own boat.) But you can also just see it from dry land.
I'll gladly confess to being weird - I can take delight in finding the plaque dating from 1586 that shows the name of a pharmacy (the column and a half pharmacy) in Campo San Polo. I've walked past that pharmacy scores of times and it's fun to know that a pharmacy has been in those premises for 500 years.
A random selection:
The"meaning" of the three flagpoles in front of St. Marks.
The symbology in Canova's funeral monument in the Frari.
The pink columns on the Doge's palace.
The narrative of the capitals of the columns of the palace.
The only underground canal in Venice (accessable by gondola if you want to make one of those guys richer or have your own boat.) But you can also just see it from dry land.
I'll gladly confess to being weird - I can take delight in finding the plaque dating from 1586 that shows the name of a pharmacy (the column and a half pharmacy) in Campo San Polo. I've walked past that pharmacy scores of times and it's fun to know that a pharmacy has been in those premises for 500 years.
Jan 2nd, 2011, 03:37 AM
#28
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I must then also confess to weirdness....this is stuff I love! I will hit our local book store and see what they have to offer. I've already purchases Rick Steve's 2011 book of Italy and Frommer's Venice, Rome and Italy book was just given to me for Christmas...finally, I picked up Italy for Dummies yesterday. hahaha. One more book that is so detailed looks great. Peter...do you think a tour guide is needed for the Accedemia or St Mark's Basilica? I have 3 kids in tow and want them to not just look with their eyes but see and understand too? Do you remain in Venice your entire trip? We are only there for 2 full days and then onto Florence, Rome and eventually Sicily. Can't wait for more info from you.... 
)
)
Jan 2nd, 2011, 07:31 AM
#29
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Andrea, We’re in Italy for nine weeks. Lou and her mother spent six nights in Assisi /Florence / Verona, while I went to Chioggia and around the lagoon. We also went to Rome for three nights, and didn’t try to see any particular sights, and we went to Bologna for a couple of nights, mostly walking around, looking in a couple of churches, a gallery, and gaining weight just by looking at food in windows. I guess that we are pretty slow tourists, and we’re not furiously into art.
Otherwise our time is just Venice. This is our third trip here – for a week four years ago, a couple of months two years ago, and a couple of months this time. Last trip, we did see what one could call the “sights”, San Marco et al, and this time we haven’t done much. We’ve visited a bunch of churches, and spent a lot of time strolling around, drinking coffee, and in some ways getting an idea of how this place works, and at times doesn’t work.
I don’t think that you need a guide for the Basilica or the Academia. It’s pretty busy here right now – even though it’s not high season – and I can see how slowly tour groups move, even small groups of half a dozen. The Academia has printed guides for each room that are good, and allow you to move pretty quickly. While I don’t admire Rick Steve’s style of writing, his guide to the Academia is not bad.
Preparation really pays off before visiting Venice, but I suppose that is true for most places. Getting around can be frustrating, and having good maps really makes a difference. I know that sounds a bit trivial, but the number of visitors I’ve seen trying to navigate with an A4 printed from Google maps would amaze you.
The trick with your kids is to make Venice sufficiently seductive so that they yearn for the next visit. That may mean more drinking coffee or hot chocolate, and less art. They’ll come back. Chances are that you all will.
If you want to be seduced by this town, get hold of a copy of “Venice” by James Morris (or Jan Morris – the same person).
Apropos of nothing, as you enter the Basilica, in the atrium, there’s a lozenge set on the floor, about one foot square. It records the spot where the Holy Roman Emperor, Frederick I, aka Barbarossa, knelt before Pope Alexander III on 24th July 1177 before being received in the Doge’s Palace. Most humiliating for Frederick – he was acknowledging that the Pope was, after all, the Pope, and that Frederick did not have authority to appoint bishops. It’s detail like that that grabs me, as it did when I sighted it this morning.
Otherwise our time is just Venice. This is our third trip here – for a week four years ago, a couple of months two years ago, and a couple of months this time. Last trip, we did see what one could call the “sights”, San Marco et al, and this time we haven’t done much. We’ve visited a bunch of churches, and spent a lot of time strolling around, drinking coffee, and in some ways getting an idea of how this place works, and at times doesn’t work.
I don’t think that you need a guide for the Basilica or the Academia. It’s pretty busy here right now – even though it’s not high season – and I can see how slowly tour groups move, even small groups of half a dozen. The Academia has printed guides for each room that are good, and allow you to move pretty quickly. While I don’t admire Rick Steve’s style of writing, his guide to the Academia is not bad.
Preparation really pays off before visiting Venice, but I suppose that is true for most places. Getting around can be frustrating, and having good maps really makes a difference. I know that sounds a bit trivial, but the number of visitors I’ve seen trying to navigate with an A4 printed from Google maps would amaze you.
The trick with your kids is to make Venice sufficiently seductive so that they yearn for the next visit. That may mean more drinking coffee or hot chocolate, and less art. They’ll come back. Chances are that you all will.
If you want to be seduced by this town, get hold of a copy of “Venice” by James Morris (or Jan Morris – the same person).
Apropos of nothing, as you enter the Basilica, in the atrium, there’s a lozenge set on the floor, about one foot square. It records the spot where the Holy Roman Emperor, Frederick I, aka Barbarossa, knelt before Pope Alexander III on 24th July 1177 before being received in the Doge’s Palace. Most humiliating for Frederick – he was acknowledging that the Pope was, after all, the Pope, and that Frederick did not have authority to appoint bishops. It’s detail like that that grabs me, as it did when I sighted it this morning.
Jan 2nd, 2011, 08:00 AM
#31
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A comment above - "Agree with most other posters, but need to add the Pesaro Madonna to the list of Frari's treasures".
Look hard at the one face peering out of that painting - it's the face of young Pesaro.
He was to inherit the family fortune, and looks as if he knows that it is coming his way. That face really engages me.
Look hard at the one face peering out of that painting - it's the face of young Pesaro.
He was to inherit the family fortune, and looks as if he knows that it is coming his way. That face really engages me.
Jan 2nd, 2011, 08:41 AM
#32
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Agree with poster(s) who suggest Scuola Grande dei Carmini- it is exquisite. For the Rocco scuola, read about Tintoretto's shenanigans before you go.
Did anyone suggest going to the top of the Campanile? DH and I hopped on the #1 Vap and went all the way around. Our mouths were hanging open almost the entire time.
I think 'weird' is too strong a word to use, Zep. Different stuff appeals to everyone. I too suggest that you read about Venice and plot some places that call out. Perhaps your children could organize your choices by general area and make things a little more efficient.
The Guggenheim's art is contemporary. If this appeals to you, don't miss it as all the modern artists of note are represented. If contemporary leaves you cold, you could put in on your B list in my humble opinion.
Do you know where you are staying?
Did anyone suggest going to the top of the Campanile? DH and I hopped on the #1 Vap and went all the way around. Our mouths were hanging open almost the entire time.
I think 'weird' is too strong a word to use, Zep. Different stuff appeals to everyone. I too suggest that you read about Venice and plot some places that call out. Perhaps your children could organize your choices by general area and make things a little more efficient.
The Guggenheim's art is contemporary. If this appeals to you, don't miss it as all the modern artists of note are represented. If contemporary leaves you cold, you could put in on your B list in my humble opinion.
Do you know where you are staying?
Jan 2nd, 2011, 01:21 PM
#33
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If your children have ipods you can download podcasts for them to listen to. Now, please everyone don't shout at me for the following suggestion!! Rick Steves has a podcast of the Grand Canal that I think your children would enjoy. If you start at the train station or at St Marcs it will give them a guided tour that runs for the length of the grand canal. I know he is corny, but he comments on some interesting trivia such as why the chimneys are the shape that they are etc.
Peter's suggestion of a traghetto ride is a good one too. You will see the pick up spots marked on most maps. It's only 1/2 euro each or similar. The locals stand as the traghetto crosses the canal, but we were asked to sit as I think the crew are too nervous that tourists will end up falling head first into the canal.
Peter's suggestion of a traghetto ride is a good one too. You will see the pick up spots marked on most maps. It's only 1/2 euro each or similar. The locals stand as the traghetto crosses the canal, but we were asked to sit as I think the crew are too nervous that tourists will end up falling head first into the canal.
Jan 2nd, 2011, 01:45 PM
#34
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My mom took my to Venice when I was 15 (I'm 19 now). I reluctantly went on the Doge's Palace tour with her (I hated tours), but ended up loving this one.
I think this is the tour it was: http://www.tickitaly.com/galleries/d...enice-tour.php
I think this is the tour it was: http://www.tickitaly.com/galleries/d...enice-tour.php
Jan 2nd, 2011, 04:18 PM
#35
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I am so excited to read what everyone suggests and believe me I am taking notes!!!!! We are going in the spring and although I hear the high tide can be a pain I hear it is wonderful at the same time...I'm guessing in spring there is a good chance of that! Peter...will you still be there in spring? my husband and I and kids would love to meet for a gelato or coffee.....I have enjoyed your comments. Everyone else too!.....love the tidbits of info...especially the little hints that might be easily missed! Grazie!
Jan 3rd, 2011, 02:10 AM
#36
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Andrea, we're leaving Venice on 21st January, so I don't think that we'll cross paths. I'm already starting to plan our next visit, Feb and March, 2013. We want to see a bit of Spring in Venice, a bit more sun and longer days.
You are less likely to have serious aqua alta in Spring, although there will likely be puddles in San Marco.
You are less likely to have serious aqua alta in Spring, although there will likely be puddles in San Marco.
Jan 4th, 2011, 05:54 PM
#38
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I remember walking was NOT our children's favourite thing when travelling and mention of "historic walking tours" still brings on laughter and they are now 31 and 35!
There is so much to just enjoy in Venice so I recommend a day pass for the vaporetto at €18 each which we made full use of during our 24 hour period. We visited the out islands of Murano, Burano with it’s colourful houses reflecting in the canal and lovely flowers and windowboxes. Our last stop was San Michele cemetery which was beautiful. We used the pass to ride up and down the Grand Canal at dusk. A gondola ride was on our "must do" list until we saw the traffic jams! I have pictures posted at:
if you're interested.
There is so much to just enjoy in Venice so I recommend a day pass for the vaporetto at €18 each which we made full use of during our 24 hour period. We visited the out islands of Murano, Burano with it’s colourful houses reflecting in the canal and lovely flowers and windowboxes. Our last stop was San Michele cemetery which was beautiful. We used the pass to ride up and down the Grand Canal at dusk. A gondola ride was on our "must do" list until we saw the traffic jams! I have pictures posted at:
if you're interested.
Jan 4th, 2011, 06:37 PM
#39
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I like to eat - the only thing in Venice I consider as a must, especially with teenagers, is pizza at Pizzaria Ae Oche, 1553 Santa Croce. http://www.aeoche.com/index_flash.htm The food is amazing , the waitstaff yougn and hip, and you sit right on a busy walway and can people watch to your hearts content. Also, we enjoyed Sunday lunch ont he Giudecca Canal (easy walk from Academia, etc.) there are about 5 restaurants on the canal, which are, I think comparble to each other. We ate at La Piscina
http://www.lacalcina.com/HTML/en/cal...cina_1_en.html
I must echo the opinions of just getting a 48 hour vaporetto pass and ride around until you don't want to anymore - quite a lovely way to see the city and tourist watch at the same time. We did hit the above mentioned San Giogio Maggiore, and yes, the kids will like that bell tower, and there is some interesting art inside; nice vaporetto ride to/from.
http://www.lacalcina.com/HTML/en/cal...cina_1_en.html
I must echo the opinions of just getting a 48 hour vaporetto pass and ride around until you don't want to anymore - quite a lovely way to see the city and tourist watch at the same time. We did hit the above mentioned San Giogio Maggiore, and yes, the kids will like that bell tower, and there is some interesting art inside; nice vaporetto ride to/from.
