Sunday, May 24, 2009

Our Venice Faves

In case you haven't noticed, we are in love with Venice. Her mysterious spirit, crumbling beauty, and ancient canals call to us. Every 6 months or so we are aching to return. For now, we will enjoy writing about a few of our favorite places. Until we return again . . .
Churches - Explore & Enjoy as many as possible. Great places to rest and soak up the history of Venice.

Cafes - enjoy your morning or afternoon coffee off of the main streets if possible, here you find better prices and neighborhood regulars. Pastries &/or paninis make for a great breakfast. You'll also usually find fresh fruit & juice too. Locals stand at the bar, we usually pay the extra to enjoy a table.

Take a Break - Most of the gorgeous hotels have a nice lobby bar or terrace. This is a great way to soak up the ambiance even if you are not staying there.
HOTEL DANIELI - The most beautiful lobby in Venice. Perfect place to stop, rest and get away from the crowd. Order a drink in the bar and enjoy stepping back in time. http://www.danieli.hotelinvenice.com/

HOTEL BAUER - Gorgeous terrace on the Grand Canal. The drinks may be a little pricey, but your paying for the view of Salute, plus they bring nuts & snacks. Try the bellini in any flavor. http://www.bauervenezia.com/

HOTEL AL PONTE ANTICO - Located just steps from the Rialto Bridge, this has got to be one of the best public balconies overlooking the Grand Canal. Perfect at sunset. Friendly staff, tiny place. Even if you don't stay here, make it a frequent stop for a beautiful flute of prosecco. http://www.alponteantico.com/

ANTICO LOCANDA MONTIN - Lush garden restaurant in the heart of Dorsodoro. Very quiet and peaceful. Great tuna tartare. www.veniceby.com/locandamontin/

HOTEL FLORA - With its small garden and quaint bar right in the heart of the San Marco shopping area, this is a perfect place to rest your weary feet. Turn at the alley between Bulgari & The Opera Gallery. http://www.hotelflora.it/

ANTICO MARTINI - (located at La Fenice) Both sides of the restaurant are great! We stopped in before the opera for vino & trichetti in the wine bar. Then following the opera had a fabulous dinner on the terrace of the restaurant. http://www.anticomartini.com/

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