Getting Lost in Venice

I have always loved the unknown corners of Venice. Those forgotten canals and half hidden alleys seem to have an irresistible pull; however much I might try to resist I am inexplicably drawn to explore.

It is on these unexpected detours that I have discovered some of the loveliest yet mostly forgotten corners of Venice. Join me then on a visual journey down the alleyways of Venice.

Before I get to the photos I'd like to make a suggestion; if you are visiting Venice then do yourself a favor by wandering off the well worn main thoroughfares. Get lost in the maze of alleys and follow those little canals. I can promise you discoveries you'll not forget and memories to last a lifetime.

Often times you'll be alone too - just you and the beauty of Venice. The masses follow the same tired routes, where all they really see are the heads of the tourists in front of them.

Last, but not least, if you need a hotel in Venice you'll find the most highly rated ones here.

Crumbling houses seem to be sinking into the canal as you watch. Crumbling they may be but sometimes these houses are amongst the most picturesque sights in Venice. They seem to capture the very essence of the city.

Walk from the train station towards the Rialto Bridge and you are swept along in a tide of humanity. Suddenly, on your left as you cross a small bridge, you'll spot a sign in Hebrew pointing the way to the Sinagoghe ( Synagogue in English), which is located in the Venice Ghetto. Follow the signs and soon you are a world away from the Venice most tourists see. You can find out more about this wonderful corner of Venice here.

Everybody knows about Burano and Murano but there's another island, just a bridge away from Venice, that nobody ever visits. This photo was taken in July and, apart from a few locals, there was not a single tourist.

Taken in the Dorsoduro Sestriere of Venice, a "suburb" of Venice that is far off the main tourist routes.

The Trattoria Vedova in Cannaregio, which I include in my Venice and Veneto restaurant guide. They offer really great local dishes and fresh seafood at prices which are amazing for Venice. Their meatballs are legendary too - reputed to be the best in Venice. They are good but my mother's meatballs are better.

More of the Cannaregio Sestriere, not far from the Venice train station and the fabulous Ghetto section. The ghetto really has to be on your list of sights to see - rated by Time Magazine as one of the world's most important places - it is historically important but also a part of Venice where "real life" Venetians go about their business and where there are more locals than tourists.

Another almost Byzantine alley. The style of the doors and windows reflect the cosmopolitan history of Venice and the strong influence the Ottoman Empire had on the city.

Washday in Venice means hanging out your washing wherever you can. You aren't allowed to hang it out front, over the public walkways, so it hangs out over the back canals or next to your gondola :-)

You'll Enjoy These...

The Italy! Mamma Mia! Blog

The ItalyMammaMia Blog shares with you news, beautiful Italian places, recipes and travel advice. Then we've great videos and essential information for those planning to travel to Italy.
Which are the stores in Venice you really don't want to miss?

In Venice, the touristy parts of the city are filled with tacky souvenir stores. If you know where to go though you'll discover stores in Venice that are truly wonderful. We'll help you to find them.
The Best Tours of Venice Italy

The best tours of Venice Italy, selected by an insider. Walking tours, gondola trips, St. Mark’s Basilica and even a creepy ghost tour. We have it all!
Discovering the Best of Venice

The best of Venice - 6 experiences you simply must have if you are visiting Venice. Here is the list...
Venice Italy - The 6 Things you HAVE to See

There's so much to see in Venice Italy that you can become overwhelmed. Before you despair, here is the list of the 6 sights you absolutely must see and everything you need to know about them.
Inside Castello in Venice Italy

Castello in Venice is a get away from the theme park feel of St. Marks Square. In some ways this is small town Italy, old ladies gossiping in the squares and kids playing in the lanes.
Summer in Italy

Ever experienced a summer in Italy? Well, we've a way that you can bring the sunshine and happiness of an Italian summer home with you.
The Venice Italy Beach Guide

Come summer I can only take so much history before I need a beach. That's what the Venice Italy Beach Guide is all about. Discovering the best beaches near Venice.
Gorgeous Pictures of Venice Italy and Verona

Pictures of Venice Italy features some magnificent photos of Venice, capturing the timeless beauty of the greatest city on earth.
The Easter in Venice Guide

Easter in Venice is wonderful, there's a special feeling in the air and Easter is still celebrated in the traditional way. Be a part of it - click for more.
Shopping in Venice - The Guide

Shopping in Venice is wonderful but you can get lost in a maze of souvenir shops. You'll avoid that if you know where to go. Discover the best places to shop - from markets to designer stores.
Christmas in Italy? Everything You Need is Here!

Planning a Christmas in Italy? I have everything you need - advice on Italian Christmas traditions, insider tips, weather, great value accommodation picks and a guide to the best restaurants.

Please Book with Us...

Maria here, if you enjoy my site and Facebook page I'd love your support.

Simply book your next trip anywhere (not only to Italy) with the search box below or with any of the hotel links on the website.

I promise you'll get the best deal on accommodation available and the income we receive from HotelsCombined helps us to:

Stay independent and to keep bringing you the best of Italy.
Never have to accept money from hotels directly; that way we can share only those we genuinely love.