Quick Answer: Venice is still Venice — even with the crowds, the beauty is almost violent.

Venice: My Floating Dream

We arrived by sea at sunrise — St. Mark's campanile appearing through mist like a mirage. Water taxi to San Marco just as it opened — had the basilica almost empty for 20 minutes. Gold mosaics literally glowing.

We walked every calle, got lost on purpose, ate cichetti in bacari, had gelato every hour. Gondola ride at sunset through tiny canals where only one boat fits at a time.

The Moment That Stays With Me: Drifting under Bridge of Sighs at blue hour while a gondolier sang "O Sole Mio" — cheesy and perfect.

Getting Around Venice

Ships dock at Marittima — people mover plus vaporetto or water taxi.

Positively Worded Word of Warning

Venice is crowded — but early morning and late night belong to you again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Venice worth it?
A: Still magical despite overtourism.

Q: Best thing?
A: Get lost in Cannaregio at dawn.

Q: Gondola worth it?
A: Expensive but iconic — split with others.

Q: Walk from port?
A: No — people mover plus vaporetto essential.

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