Venice, Just as You Imagined . . . And Not

Venice, Italy is hardly a secret destination. No doubt you’ve seen tons of photos of the city since as far back as you can remember. It is one of the most visited cities in Italy. And for a very good reason. Venice is as gorgeous in person as it is in Instagram or postcard posts.

Many cities don’t live up to their hype, or there’s something about one or another that doesn’t appeal to you personally. Venice lives up to expectations, and then some. The city is absolutely amazing, and truthfully, you’ll need three days to see all the sights. No more. No less. More might bore you, and less could make you feel as though you missed out.

A few must sees:

1. Grand Canal
2. St Mark’s Square
3. Doge’s Palace
4. St Mark’s Basilica
5. Teatro La Fenice
6. Musica A Palazzo
7. Cannaregio
8. Venice Lagoon
9. Bridge of Sighs
10. Ponte di Rialto

There are dozens and dozens of places to see in these groups of islands. But these are my personal Top 10.

George Clooney’s highly-anticipated wedding to Amal Alamuddin in 2014 was held in Venice. The couple chose it because it’s such a romantic place. Fans grouped at the banks of the Grand Canal, photographers flocked everywhere, drone cameras buzzed overhead and waterborne paparazzi followed the couple at every step. But for George and Amal, it was Venice . And it was such a grand spectacle.

Enjoy new highlights of travel photographer Edwin Santiago’s journeys each week.