My Venice

My husband and I got married in Venice and we try to go back every year or two. It is somewhere I have come to know and love for its magic and pageantry, its romantic canals, rich tapestry of history and of course delicious food. In addition, it is the home of many special memories and returning there is wonderful yet familiar.

Where to stay

Our favourite hotel in Venice is the Europa e Regina, which faces the glorious Santa Maria della Salute on the Grand Canal. This is where we had our wedding reception and we always stay here if we can. It is a glamorous and elegant luxury hotel, with marble floors and Murano chandeliers, and being near San Marco it is great for exploring the city. Tiepolo is an intimate bar and in the summer is the perfect place to have bellinis on the terrace and watch the gondoliers on the twinkling sun-kissed water.

Where to eat

We have a few favourites, and always go back to Antico Martini. Located behind the Teatro Fenice, it serves tantalising Venetian specialities, and is the perfect place to celebrate a special romantic night out. Chris and I have spent a few Valentines nights there. A less expensive option is Rosticceria Gislon near Rialto. It is a favourite with locals, and is great for seafood and lasagne. It also does takeaway. We visited it on our first trip to Venice, then lost it for a few years and were very pleased to rediscover it! When our boys want a pizza we head to Al Teatro Goldoni, just south of Riato. Huge and tasty.

Where to shop

A trip to Murano is something we do on every visit, even if we don’t buy. The boat ride is a lot of fun. We like the Nuova Venier Atelier which has some amazing glass sculptures and chandeliers fit for Cinderella’s ball. Most ateliers will do a glass blowing demonstration that never fails to astound and impress. The colourful island of Burano is the home to beautiful lace. Martina Vidal has traditional as well as more contemporary lace and table linen.

Though there is an abundance of shops for masks, marionettes and porcelain dolls, Max’s Art Shop and Leon Doro have quality items which are always worth a peek. JB Guanti is a great shop for gloves in a myriad of colours. Perfect for keeping fingers warm in the cold. I also like Via 74, for fun and quirky handbags that scream Italian style.