A trip to exquisite Venice will sweep you back in time. Whether you’re bobbing peacefully through the Floating City, beneath crumbling ancient walls and vibrantly festooned washing lines, or being entranced by its many opulent interiors and antiques, Venice is truly a design lover’s paradise.
For those seeking the most powerful inspiration the city has to offer, we’ve compiled a list of six Venetian hotspots you must include in your travel plans.
1 – Get Acquainted
The city of Venice is a piece of artwork in itself. Before you dive headlong into its treasure trove of cultural attractions, take the time to get your bearings and simply drink in the fairytale atmosphere. Wander the narrow backstreets or opt for a leisurely gondola ride, a classic tourist activity but ideal for exploring the smaller canals and intricate city bridges. Sample lavish Venetian tapas or cicchetti, and toast to your upcoming adventures with a glass of prosecco or fine Italian wine— our favourite spot is the iconic Cantine del Vino già Schiavi.
2 – The Peggy Guggenheim Collection
A stunning modern art museum and one of Venice’s most celebrated attractions, The Peggy Guggenheim Collection showcases the personal art collection of American heiress Peggy Guggenheim. Located within the 18th century Palazzo Venier dei Leoni, which was her home for three decades, the collection includes works of surrealist, futurist and abstract expressionist art, as well as a sculpture garden, rich interior decor including a Calder silver bedhead, and photos of the house as it was during Peggy’s fabulous, taste-making lifetime.
3 – Caffè Florian
Established in 1720, Caffè Florian is the oldest coffee house in Europe. Named after its original owner Floriano Francesconi, the cafe’s historic patrons include the likes of Goethe, Casanova and Lord Byron. Retaining many of its elegant 18th century rituals, a refined atmosphere is evoked through orchestral music, delectable treats on silver trays, and a picturesque view of the Piazza San Marco. Each of Caffè Florian’s many grand halls is richly decorated in an elaborate and particular style, from the Far East-inspired Sala Orientale to the 1920s art nouveau decor of the Sala Liberty.
4 – Gallerie dell’Accademia
A stone’s throw from the Palazzo Venier dei Leoni, this museum gallery is situated on the south bank of the Grand Canal and houses an impressive collection of pre-19th century artwork. A number of Venetian masterpieces are displayed here, including works by Bellini, Titian and Tintoretto. Each piece in the Gallerie dell’Accademia highlights a different facet of Venice’s artistic spectrum, blending rich colour and furious emotion with peaceful imagery and soft pink and green pastels.
5 – The Murano Glass Museum
The history of Venice has been deeply entwined with the art of glassmaking for centuries, with Venetian or Murano glass among the most beautiful in the world. Located on the island of Murano, just north of Venice, the Murano Glass Museum boasts a beautifully curated collection of glassware, dating from as far back as the 5th century BC. Smaller rooms dotted with sparkling cabinets are reminiscent of Aladdin’s cave, while the magnificent Salone Maggiore houses items from the Golden Age of glassmaking that will leave any visitor stunned by their delicate beauty.
6 – Glassmaking Tours
While the Murano Glass Museum captures the historic glory of Venetian glass, a trip to one of the island’s contemporary glass factories is a reminder that the industry is still alive and well today. While many ateliers are closed to the public, tourists visiting Murano will find several factories that offer free tours and glass blowing demonstrations. While these provide an intriguing insight, be warned that they are often followed by a high pressure sales pitch- avoid the most touristy showrooms, and do your research before making any purchases!
To recapture your memories of beautiful Venice, or bring a little piece of its delicate magic to your home, browse the stunning range of Italian glassware waiting to find its new home in the Ceraudo gift boutique.
Sourced pieces featured in image are our Venetian Glass Goblet, Venetian Comet Beaker and our Dolphin Stem Goblet.
