Discovering Venice: A Remarkable Journey Through the Floating City

When I first stepped foot in Venice, I approached the city with relatively modest expectations. My previous visit during high school had left me underwhelmed, but this time, accompanied by my father, I was determined to uncover the true magic of this iconic destination. To my delight, Venice revealed an alluring charm that completely transformed my perspective.

Day 1: Settling In

Our adventure began as we transitioned from the serene landscapes of Slovenia to the bustling atmosphere of Venice. The sight of throngs of tourists at the train station was amusing, and we mentally prepared ourselves for a few crowded days. However, navigating a few steps off the main thoroughfare allowed us to escape the masses and discover quieter, lesser-known paths of the city.

We checked into Hotel Tre Archi, a charming establishment adorned with classic Venetian decor that felt almost nostalgic. The intricate wallpaper and vivid bedcovers added a quaint touch to our stay. While the first day was primarily about exploring the vicinity of our hotel, it served as an excellent introduction to Venice’s distinctive allure.

Day 2: A Cultural Exploration

The second day was packed with adventure; I dubbed it my “must-see” day! While my dad enjoyed a boat tour, I indulged my curiosity by visiting some of the city’s historical treasures.

My first destination was Banksy’s Migrant Child. Although it proved somewhat challenging to view from the bridge due to its angle, I was captivated nonetheless. This was my first encounter with a Banksy piece, and I was struck by its understated appearance—far removed from the stylized photographs I had seen online. Its presence in Venice sparked a fascinating debate about art preservation, highlighting the contrast between high art and street art in a city known for its rich cultural heritage.

Next, I wandered into Chiesa Parrocchiale di San Pantalon, which quickly became my favorite church of the trip. The breathtaking ceiling painted by Fumiani, renowned for his trompe-l’œil technique, left me in a state of awe. In an age where travel can sometimes feel overwhelming, experiencing such visceral wonder was refreshing.

Outside, I stumbled upon a floating vegetable market, a delightful reminder of the everyday life of Venetians, and a charming sight I wished to see more often.

Continuing on, I visited places like the Ponte dei Pugni and the **Leonardo da Vinci Museum