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Venice, city of the ultimate romance

With century-old buildings that are reflected everywhere in the water, Venice is probably the most beautiful city in Italy. During the winter there is a magical atmosphere, with the tourists gone and a light fog hanging just above the water where the sun comes shining through. The city has been a source of inspiration for poets and artists for over centuries.  Among the places of interest is the Dogen Palace, the historic pentagon,  where all the important decisions were made in the beautiful grand salon that could seat as much as 1500 councillors. San Marco's Square is of enormous dimensions and the only square in Venice officially considered a piazza because here a square is called a ‘campo’.  Dorsoduro is a nice district where it is possible to visit the Peggy Guggenheim Museum of contemporary art. The city centre and neighbouring islands can be easily reached by ‘vaporetto’ boat, which services all city districts and surrounding islands. It is also possible to reach the city centre from the airport by boat, which probably is the best way to arrive in Venice. There is a great choice of hotels in Venice but you could consider to stay at one of the monasteries; we selected a simple one but at the heart of Dorsoduro. The other one is the more luxurious option on the peaceful island of San Clemente.

The Canossiano convent is situated in the historic centre of Dorsoduro district. It dates from 1486 but it was not until 1998 when it was made available for paying guests. The monastery was built between two large yards and is led by nuns. The rooms are simple but clean and have en suite shower/wc. There are no restaurants in the hotel but there are nice coffee shops and restaurants in the vicinity.  It is not a hotel for everyone’s taste, but it is an extraordinary place for those who want to experience something different.  From € 125 per room per night.

The Hotel San Clemente dates from 1131 and is located in the private island Isola di San Clemente, with views over the water.  This luxurious 5 star hotel is an oasis of peace, where the charm and atmosphere of the past have been well preserved. The hotel is a former monastery and has beautiful wooden hotel boat to carry you to San Marco Square in 10 minutes. The gourmet restaurant Ca'dei Frati has lovely panoramic views over the lake and it is possible to dine al fresco. The hotel has a great swimming pool (only during the summer months), a wonderful spa and a tennis court. 
From  € 250 per room per night.

KLM flies 3 times a day from Amsterdam to Venice. It is even possible to travel from the airport to the citycentre by boat.

 

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