A guide to the finest must-visit destinations in Venice
Scuola Grande di San Rocco
Scuola Grande di San Rocco (meaning The Big School of San Rocco*) is often forgotten in the itinerary of most Venetian visitors, but we believe it is a must-see if you are planning a trip to Venice. This site has existed since the 1500s, when the confraternity devoted to St. Roch and founded the sanctuary, transforming it into a vibrant, cultural and artistic aggregation spot. At the same time, they commissioned Tintoretto to embellish the walls of the building, which still today have not been renovated, but are incredibly more beautiful than ever. Many other Renaissance geniuses of the likes of Tintoretto, such as: Tiziano, Giorgione and Tiepolo have also participated in the decoration of the Scuola Grande. You will stand in awe in front of Tintoretto’s La Crocifissone and other breath-taking paintings and feel imbibed in this mixture of cultural-artistic heritage and sacral aura.
*For those who are unfamiliar with the meaning of scuole in such historical connotation: in the 13th century a cultural-religious phenomenon developed in northern Italy, giving rise to the scuole. These confraternities of middle class citizens typically included professionals in artistic crafts or skilled tradesmen who were not allowed to participate in the oligarchic government, but could contribute to Venice’s prestige with their know-how.
Lunch at Caffè dei Frari 1870
Because cicchetti-cravings hit you as soon as you enter the Lagoon, the first lunch stop must be designed to satisfy such desire. We have thought of Caffè dei Frari 1870, a historical cafè which has witnessed the splendour of the 19th century to the horrors of World War II, prior to its renovation in 2006. The second floor of the cafè is an open oval-shaped balcony; the legend goes that Nazis could take a quick step inside from the main door and easily verify the presence of political fugitives from beneath. Venice’s walls always have a story to tell. Today however, the cafè offers the most delicious cicchetti to be enjoyed while facing the Basilica S. Maria Gloriosa dei Frari - just beyond the canal. Spoil yourself with cicchetti tasting while holding a Spritz in your hand.
Aperitivo at The Gritti Palace
Home to the Doge of Venice Andrea Gritti and his family since 1525, the Gritti Palace came to know its renovation only at the beginning of the 20th century, when it became the illustrious destination that it is today. The Gritti Palace speaks for itself: capable of intriguing the most sophisticated clientele, the palazzo boasts an incredible terrazzo fully designed in Riva Yatch style. A very welcoming staff will serve you the most delicious aperitivo with white gloves, so as to recall those times when elegance was a true priority. As the day goes by, we advise you order an Americano cocktail to inaugurate the evening and let yourself be captured by the unique beauty of the Grand Canal at sunset.
Dinner at Aman Venice
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You will not believe your own eyes: if the sumptuous spirit of Venice and its history could be summarised in a nutshell, it would surely be Palazzo Papadoli, one of the eight greatest palazzi of “La Serenissima” (name given to Venice meaning that it is a very serene place), which Aman took over with absolute style, adding a sophisticated and contemporary twist. Its historical design was however meticulously respected in all its grandeur: frescoed ceilings and opulent decorations on the walls, Tiepolo’s finest works of art in the master bedrooms, and multiple stately rooms dedicated to the most luxurious dining experience in Arva - our favourites: the golden and the powder blue rooms. Head Chef Dario Ossola ensembles exquisite menu proposals and is highly committed to working with sustainable and organic products hand-picked daily at the Rialto market, supported by the estimable consultancy of three-Michelin stars Chef Norbert Niederkofler.
Lunch at Corte Sconta
Corte Sconta is where you imagine Venetians spending their lunch time: elegantly isolated from the chaotic calli, sitting in a courtyard with grapevines above their heads. Corte Sconta’s authenticity, both in the decor and gastronomic proposition, is what makes it so charming. If you are looking for real, down-to-earth and long-established Venetian food specialities, this is the place for you. Ask for a flamboyant white wine to go with the fish dishes: baccalà mantecato (whipped codfish) with polenta, sarde (sardines) in saor, but most importantly fried moeche (small crabs).
Visit Peggy Guggenheim Collection
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Finest expression of the modern era, the Peggy Guggenheim Collection is one of those museums you will find hard to leave. As you enter the beautiful courtyard and begin to wander in between illustrious pieces of artworks, you will find yourself astonished by Peggy’s scrupulous collection, ranging from Pollock to Dalì and Magritte - who she came to know in her trips around the world. Peggy’s insatiable efforts to nurture and celebrate talents of local artists - such as Tancredi Parmeggiani, to whom she rented the basement of her Palazzo Venier dei Leoni in exchange for a continuous production of art - led Venice to nominate her Honorary Citizen in 1962.
Aperitivo at Harry’s Bar
Appointed as a National landmark by the Ministry of Cultural Affairs in 2001, Harry’s Bar has been one of the most exclusive destinations since 1931. In almost a century, it has attracted the top fascinating characters of the cultural scenario of the 20th century: from Ernest Hemingway and Charlie Chaplin to Alfred Hitchcok and - last but not least - Peggy Guggeinheim. Preserving eno-gastronomic traditions with impeccable style, Harry’s Bar highlights are exquisite Bellinis that will transport you back to a more fashionable era and its signature beef Carpaccio.
Dinner at GLAM by Enrico Bartolini at Palazzo Venart
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To end your tour, book a table for two at Enrico Bartolini’s two Michelin stars GLAM, inside Palazzo Venart, where Renaissance frescoes and exclusive contemporary designs come together to create an alluring location. The restaurant vibe is extremely intimate, offering only a few tables where you can indulge in the most romantic dining experience. The menu is exciting and draws from typical Venetian dishes to re-interpret them in great style. After dinner, enjoy a dessert or a digestivo in the dreamy garden facing the Grand Canal and give your farewell to La Serenissima - “arrivederci”.
