Elegant Venetian buildings and palaces peer over the ancient maze of narrow streets and labyrinth of canals that contrive to make this a unique city. Tourists naturally flock to Venice to experience its inimitable charm. The downside of this can be felt in the narrow streets and cramped piazzas of its sought-after areas. A good way to get to know a more personal side of Venice is to saunter through its romantic back streets and residential quarters.

Venice rests on one of a series of 117 islands distributed throughout the Venetian lagoon at the northern end of the Adriatic Sea. This strategic position conferred on Venice economic and defensive advantages over its trading rivals. As the wealth of the city increased and its population grew, the composition of the city grew ever more dense and today only a handful of the islets that constitute the historic centre are not entirely developed.

The historic centre is divided into six quarters (sestieri). These are: San Marco, Dorsoduro, San Polo, Santa Croce, Cannaregio and Castello. The city's main thoroughfare is the Grand Canal that intersects each district as it meanders through the length of Venice from the railway station to San Marco. An alternative to walking the bewildering streets of Venice is to cruise the waterways onboard the motorboat buses known as vaporetti. These are the less romantic but also less expensive substitutes for the famous gondolas.

Venice extends beyond its six sestieri to the islands of Murano, Burano and Torcello. These are known for glass and lace-making respectively and Torcello is noted for the magnificent Byzantine Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta that rests on its soil. Trips by boat to the islands provide a pleasant diversion from the busier historic quarters.

The Grand Canal (Canalazzo)

Address: Venice

Venice's main waterway splits the city in half with sestieri in equal parts to the west and east of it. It is the hub around which much activity in Venice is concentrated and is encircled with elegant facades of the palazzi, which testify to the city's past opulence. The best way to explore the architectural splendour of these Renaissance buildings is on board a vaporetta. Pedestrian access across the canal is only provided along three bridges situated at the station, Rialto and Academia. Gondolas cross the canal at regular intervals and provide a romantic interlude to the sightseeing itinerary. The Grand Canal palaces and buildings to look out for include the Ca da Mosto, with its rounded arches in low relief. The 'House of Gold' (Ca d'Ora) is a beautiful Gothic building constructed between 1424 and 1430. Palazzo Corner-Spinelli and Palazzo Vendramin Calergi combine classical and Byzantine elements designed by Mauro Codussi. Architect Jacopo Sansovino was inspired by Codussi's style and infused this in his creation of the Palazzo Corner (Ca Granda). Another notable Palazzo is the Grimani di San Luca, designed by Michele Sanmicheli.

St Mark's Square

Address: Venice

St Mark's Square (Piazza San Marco) has always been the nucleus of Venice. The first citadel and church were erected on its stony foundations, the Palazzo Ducale and the Basilica di San Marco respectively. The Basilica di San Marco is a unique juxtaposition of Byzantine, western European and Islamic architectural styles. The Basilica's most precious relic is the Pala d'Or, a Venetian-Byzantine gold relief adorned with precious gems. Travellers and pigeons flock to the Piazza with equal zeal. It is the tourists however who pay dearly to eat or drink at the elegant cafes that spill onto the pavements. Designer shops line the streets that radiate from the square. There are worthwhile places of interest to explore beyond the square that include the Museo Correr, the Archaeological Museum and the Museo del Risorgimento, which are housed within the Procuratie Nuova. Attached to the Procuratie Vecchie is the triumphal Torre dell'Orologio. The adjoining archway guides one through to the Mercerie, Venice's main commercial street that stretches to the Rialto.

Rialto

Address: Venice

The Rialto has long been the commercial core of Venice and is famed as the place where the first bridge over the Grand Canal was built. The original wooden bridge collapsed under the strain of the crowds gathered here to admire a wedding procession. It was replaced by the sturdier single stone arch design of Antonio da Ponte, built in 1588. Today the area still resembles the bustling fruit and vegetable market of former times but is additionally swamped with tourists and the accoutrements geared towards them.

Basilica dei Frari

Address: San Polo 3003 Venice

Admission: EUR2.50 Monday to Saturday 9am to 6pm, and Sunday 1pm to 6pm. Closed to visitors during services

Telephone: (041) 272 8611

This great Gothic Franciscan church was constructed in the 14th century and is primarily known as the burial place of Titian and the Venetian sculptor, Antonio Canova. Titian's tomb in the south aisle watches over large marble pyramid created for Canova. The interior of the church is adorned with the works of famous artists. These include Donatello's St John the Baptist, Giovanni Bellini's triptych of the Madonna and Saints, Titian's famous Assumption of the Virgin and his Madonna of Case Pesaro.

School of St Roch (Scuola di San Rocco)

Address: Campo San Rocco, San Polo 3054 Venice

Admission: EUR7 Daily 9.30am to 5.30pm

Telephone: (041) 523 4864

A Scuola in Venice was a mixture of guild and religious fraternity where members paid annual fees to support fellow members and to decorate the school's premises. The School of St Roch is known for the canvasses of Jacopo Tintoretto that adorn its interior. Tintoretto was commissioned to decorate the School in 1564 and dedicated 23 years to this task. The paintings are arranged in chronological order that can be followed by beginning on the second floor in the Sala dell'Albergo. Notable amongst his works are the scenes from the Life of the Virgin and the Crucifixion.

Academia

Address: Dorsoduro 1055 Venice

Admission: EUR6.50 Tuesday to Sunday 8.15am to 6.50pm. Closed Monday, New Year's Day, May 1st, Christmas Day

Telephone: 055 294 883

The Gallerie dell'Academia houses one of Europe's finest art collections. Its display follows the progression of Venetian art from the 14th to 18th centuries. Notable works in the gallery include Paolo Veneziano's Coronation of Mary, Carpaccio's Crucifixion and Apotheosis, Giovanni Bellini's Madonna with Child between Saints Catherine and Mary Magdalen, Giorgione's Tempest, Lorenzo Lotto's Portrait of a Young Gentleman in His Studio, Paolo Veronese's Feast in the House of Levi, and Tintoretto's Theft of St Mark's Body and Crucifixion.

Peggy Guggenheim Collection

Address: Palazzo Venier dei Leoni, 701 Dorsoduro Venice

Admission: EUR10; concessions available Daily except Tuesdays 10am to 6pm

Telephone: (041) 240 5411

The Guggenheim collection is housed in the former Palazzo of the wealthy American heiress and has become one of the most illustrious collections of Modern Art in Italy. It spans the artistic movements of Cubism, European Abstraction and Surrealism with notable works by Brancusi, Marino Marini, Kandinsky, Picasso, Magritte, Rothko, Max Ernst, Dali and Jackson Pollock. Peggy Guggenheim built up her collection between 1938 and 1947 and bought the Palazzo Venier dei Leoni in 1948 where she lived until her death in 1979.

Verona

Address: Venice

Just two hours west of Venice is Verona, the famous historical city where Shakespeare placed his star-crossed lovers, Romeo and Juliet. Located in the centre of the city is the house which inspired the residence of the Capulet family, dating back to the 13th century. Other highlights include several beautifully preserved Roman structures and examples of architecture, ranging from the Middle Ages up to the 19th century. The city is also a good place for shopping and browsing.

Lido di Venetia

Address: Venice

The Lido di Venetia looks out on to the Adriatic. The area's best beaches can be found here and a day spent relaxing on the sand is well worth the trip. Lido has various restaurants, cafés, shops and bars to keep everyone happy.

Aqualandia

Address: Via Buonarroti 15, Lido de Jesolo Venice

Admission: EUR25 (adult), free for children under 1m tall Daily from May to September, 10am to 6pm

Telephone: (042) 137 1648

On the Lido de Jesolo is Aqualandia, a great new water/theme park. A wonderful selection of attractions such as pools, slides and shows will entertain younger visitors especially for hours on end.

Padua (Padova)

Address: Venice

Once second only to Rome in terms of wealth, Padua is a gorgeous city. The fabulous architecture of the old town, dating back as far as 1000AD, is a magnificent backdrop for the wealth of culture the city contains. The main attraction is the cathedral dedicated to St Anthony. The high altar is decorated with bronzes by Donnatello, who was also responsible for the proud equestrian statue of General Erasmo da Narni (il Gattamelata) that stands in the Piazza del Santo. Padua is situated just 35km west of Venice.

Bell Tower (Campanile di San Marco)

Address: San Marco, Piazza San Marco Venice

Admission: Adults: EUR6 April to June, 9.30am to 5pm; July to September 9am to 9pm

Telephone: 041 522 4064

Originally built in the 9th century, this 318-foot (97-metre) bell tower is the highest structure in Venice and offers visitors breathtaking views of the cupolas of St. Mark's, the lagoon, its neighbouring islands and the red rooftops and church domes of Venice. When the air is clear, one can even spot a snow-capped peak of the distant Dolomite Mountains but, strangely enough, not one canal can be seen from this bell tower. The tower collapsed unexpectedly in 1902 and was rebuilt exactly as before, even rescuing one of the five historical bells that are still in use today (each bell was rung for a different purpose, such as war, the death of a doge, religious holidays, etc).

Clock Tower (Torre dell'Orologio)

Address: San Marco, Piazza San Marco Venice

Admission: Adults EUR12 Daily from 9am to 3.30pm

Entering the Piazza San Marco, the clock tower is one of the first things to be seen, towering above the Procuratie Vecchie (the ancient administration buildings for the republic). Built in 1496, the clock mechanism of that same period still keeps perfect time. The two bronze figures, known as 'Moors' because of their dark colour, pivot to strike the hour.

Museum of Natural History

Address: Santa Croce 1730 - 30125 Venice

Admission: Free Open Tuesday to Friday from 9am – 1pm. Saturday and Sunday from 10am – 4pm. Closed Mondays, 12 May, Christmas Day and 1 January

Telephone: 041 275 0206

Kids will love the Museum of Natural History, which is home to the skeleton of an Ouranosaurus, which was found in the Sahara Desert by a Venetian palaeontologist in 1973. The museum also features an aquarium where children will be able to view and learn about the marine life living off the Venetian cost.

Naval Museum

Address: Riva degli Schiavoni, Castello Venice

Admission: EUR1.55 each Open Monday to Friday from 8.45am – 1.30pm. Saturday from 8.45am – 1pm

With a rich and fascinating maritime history, Venice's Naval Museum is a great place for kids to explore. Displaying intricate models and, in many cases, the real life thing, kids will find this museum mesmerizing. Gondola making is also demonstrated.

Murano

Address: Isola di Murano, Venice Venice

The Venetian Island of Murano is a great trip for the whole family. Visitors can enjoy watching the local art of glass-blowing and amaze in the products that are created. And, since glass-blowing is the thing to do here, there are plenty of glassware shops and factories, most of which can be visited free of charge, where visitors can take home souvenirs, or simply enjoy looking around. The Museo Vetrario is another great place to admire glassworks.

Parco delle Rimembranze

Address: Via Sant'Elena Venice

Admission: Free

One of the nicest parks in Venice, Parco delle Rimembranze is the best suited to kids in Venice. Featuring plenty of play areas for children and a roller-skating rink, this park is a must for a family day out on a sunny day.

Po Delta Natural Park

Address: Ca' Vendramin Venice

Admission: Open daily

Telephone: 042 681 219

Visitors to the Po Delta Natural Park can enjoy exploring a day in the great outdoors. Discover the park by bike, boat, canoe, horseback, or on foot. Tours are also available for those who want to discover the more protected areas of the park and avid fisherman can enjoy the fishing lagoons where they can catch bream, bass and grey mullet. There are great bird-watching opportunities here too, so bring the binoculars.

Carnival of Venice

Where: Centred on San Marco's Square,Venice

When: 5 - 16 February 2010

Originating in the 12th century, the Carnival of Venice is one of the world's most famous festivals and fills the whole city with musicians, acrobats, clowns, magicians, puppeteers, beautiful masks, elaborate costumes, and parades. People come from around the world to participate in masked balls and general festivities in the ancient Venetian tradition, and to enjoy theatrical and dance performances, exhibitions and concerts along the canals, squares and the magnificent palaces of the city. Carnival traditions are the same, but every year the theme is different.

Festa del Redentore (Feast Day of the Redeemer)

Where: Giudecca Canal and St. Mark's Basin,Venice

When: 3rd Sunday in July, annually

One of Venice's most important religious festivals, the Feast Day of The Redeemer (Il Redentore) is also one of the most traditional dating back to 1576 in commemoration of the end of the plague that wiped out a third of the city's population. The Church of the Redentore was built on the Giudecca Island and a promise was made by the Doge to lead a procession of thanksgiving every year to the church; the opening of the temporary bridge of gondolas roped together that stretches across the canal to the island is the traditional start of the festivities. At sunset the waterways are filled with hundreds of brightly lit and decorated boats, while the banks of the canal are lined with feasting and dancing. The highlight is the tremendous fireworks display accompanied by music, and considered by many to be one of the most spectacular in the world. Regattas, rowing competitions, and special services in the Redentore Church (reached via the boat bridge) also form part of the festivities. For more information phone +39 (0)4 1274 7736.

Historical Regatta

Where: Grand Canal,Venice

When: First Sunday of September, annually.

Regattas have traditionally been held on the waterways of Venice since the 13th century, and are still held throughout the year today, the most important of which is the Historical Regatta, held on the first Sunday in September. This is a regatta of distinction, attracting huge crowds of merry spectators to cheer on the various rowing races. The gondola races are preceded by a magnificent historical procession of elaborately carved boats, manned by Venetians in splendid costumes, which recalls the famous 16th-century procession of the Queen of Cyprus come to deliver her kingdom into the hands of the Venetians.

International Festival of Contemporary Music

Where: Teatro La Fenice, Teatro Malibran, Piccolo Teatro Arsenale,Venice

When: September to October 2010 TBA

This long-associated music festival showcases some of the newest and most interesting commissioned works and premieres brought to the Venice Biennale.

Barcolana

Where: Trieste, 65 miles (100km) east of Venice,Venice

When: Second week of October annually.

Barcolana is one of the largest sailing races in the world and draws thousands of fans to watch 2,000 boats (traditional and state-of-the-art) battle it out on the Mediterranean shores of beautiful Trieste.

La Vecia

Where: Lake Garda,Venice

When: March, mid-lent

Held in mid-lent on Lake Garda, where Gardone and Gargnano host festivals and an image of a woman being burnt on a bonfire, this event commemorates the 'Hag Trials' that were held in medieval times. There will be many traditional meals, souvenirs and sights to revel in; make a weekend of it and enjoy the water, sun and fun!

Suezo Peri Ponti

Where: Venice,Venice

When: Second Sunday in March

As the name suggests, Suezo Peri Ponti is a marathon race around the streets of Venice, with the contestants running up and down the bridges. This is a great event not to be missed; prepare for the thrill of watching runners try to navigate the complex bridge route! There will also be various local cuisine and souvenirs on offer.

La Sensa, Marriage to the Sea

Where: Lido,Venice

When: First Sunday after Ascension

This annual ceremony reaffirms the 'marriage' of Venice and the Adriatic sea. The mayor arrives at the Lido by boat and drops a gold ring into the water. He then proceeds to the San Nicolo church to attend a service. Anybody who dives into the sea and retrieves the ring may keep it, and be exempt from all state taxes for a year.

Biennale

Where: Giardini Pubblici,Venice

When: June to November 2010 TBA

The Biennale takes place in odd-numbered years and is a modern-art exposition featuring painters, sculptors, and performance artists from around the world. Most of the events are held in the Giardini Pubblici, or nearby at the Corderie dell'Arsenale.

Venice Film Festival

Where: Lido,Venice

When: September 2010 TBA

The Venice Film Festival (Mostra Internazionale d'Arte Cinematografica di Venezia) is the oldest film festival in the world and takes place during the August each year. Take a water bus to the Lido to enjoy the presentation and mingle with the stars!

Ristorante Quadri

Address: Piazza San Marco 120 Venice

Food Type: International

Oozing with old-fashioned romance and elegance coupled with breathtaking views across St Mark's Square, Ristorante Quadri lays it on thick when it comes to fine dining and style. Try the Sea-bass puff pastry marinated in vinegar, white wine and basil with baby spinach, cherry tomatoes and mustard, or the Beef fillet steak rolled in Colonnata lard with black truffle and Pioppini mushrooms. This restaurant might be perceived as being kitsch, but it definitely doesn't disappoint. Open Tuesday to Sunday for lunch and dinner. Closed Monday. Reservations essential.

Vino Vino

Address: San Marco 2007, On Ponte delle Veste Venice

Food Type: Italian

Located next to the Antico Martini, Vino Vino is a wine bar-cum-restaurant boasting the largest selection of top-quality Italian and imported wines. The food's not bad either, where dishes such as octopus salad, rabbit baked with thyme, veal stew and braised beef in Barolo wine, are paired with a delicious selection of wines. Specials can be found scrawled on the blackboard or displayed under the glass counter. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Reservations not accepted.

Trattoria Altanella

Address: Calle delle Erbe, 268, Giudecca Venice

Food Type: Local

Trattoria Altanella has been in the same family for over a hundred years and the French president, François Mitterrand, used to dine here whenever he was in Venice. However, the real attraction to this ambient trattoria is the sumptuous gnocchi, which is homemade and served with tomatoes or nero di sepia (squid ink).

Antico Martini

Address: Campo San Fantin (on the same square as La Fenice opera house) Venice

Food Type: Venetian

With grand paintings that occupy entire walls, Persian carpets and beautiful views onto the square of the Fenice theatre, Antico Martini is one of the oldest restaurants in Venice, steeped in almost 300 years' history. The superb cuisine will not disappoint and is always made form the freshest ingredients. Open Thursday to Monday for lunch and Wednesday to Monday for dinner. Reservations essential.

Trattoria alla Rivetta

Address: Castello 4625, Salizzada San Provolo Venice

Food Type: Seafood

This bustling seafood eatery serves some of the most authentic Venetian cuisine and for the right price. Locals and tourists alike flock to this restaurant for delicious pastas, seafood and other mouth-watering Italian fare. Even in off-season there can be a waiting list. Open from Tuesday to Sunday for lunch and dinner. Closed Mondays. Reservation recommended.

Fiaschetteria Toscana

Address: Salizzada San Giovanni Venice

Food Type: Italian

This perpetually well rated location is richly decorated with Venetian glass lamps, humorous prints and painted plates from various restaurants in northern Italy. Monkfish cheeks are served perfectly fried and the tiny, sweet razor clams are fittingly un-garnished.

Grand Canal

Address: Hotel Monaco, Calle Vallaresso, 1325 Venice

Food Type: Local

Located in Calle Vallaresso, this elegant restaurant belongs to the Hotel Monaco and Grand Canal, and serves traditional Venetian cuisine, including seafood and fresh vegetables. Celebrities such as Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie have been spotted dining here and, only a few metres from the Vaporetto stop, the location is both convenient and appealing, with a very romantic terrace to sit on.

Ristorante Ai Quattro Rusteghi

Address: Campo del Ghetto Novo, Canareggio 2888 Venice

Food Type: Venetian

The airy spaciousness of this Venetian restaurant owned by the local Rossi family, coupled with its wonderfully varied menu creates a wonderful dining experience. Located in the heart of the local 'Ghetto' of the Cannaregio district, this eatery is popular with both locals and tourists alike. Try the delicious homemade pastas with mouth-watering sauces, or the gondola, fish baked with tomatoes, olives, capers, potatoes, and white wine in parchment paper and then folded to look like a gondola. Indoor and outdoor dining available. Open daily for lunch and dinner.

Ristorante alla Madonna

Address: Calle della Madonna San Polo, 594 Venice

Food Type: Seafood

This traditional trattoria is just a few metres from the Rialto market (a fish market), so it has a fine selection of fresh fish all year round. The majority of this restaurant's first course meals are served with seafood, such as the risotto or spaghetti with frutti di mare (seafood) or pasta with sepie (cuttlefish). Many of the day's fish are simple and delicious alla griglia (grilled). Closed Wednesdays.