Venice

A floating city has to be seen to be believed. Far from being the city’s only draw, Venice has much to see and do by foot and by gondola, including an old art scene and an ever-developing new one boosted by the opening of a new Guggenheim.

Away from the crowds, other islands are where traditional Venetian culture still runs deep. From Burano’s pastel coloured houses, Mazzorbo’s secluded vineyards, Murano’s artisanal glassware and Lido’s famously exclusive beach, it’s worth investing a little extra time to really experience the city.

As a city state independent from the mainland, liberal Venice accrued great wealth through maritime trade, becoming the heart of a Mediterranean empire and a centre for European art and culture from the Middle Ages through to the Renaissance. Great natives as varied as Casanova, Marco Polo, Palladio, Titian, Canaletto, Giovanni Bellini and Vivaldi hint at Venice’s unique and far reaching influence.

If you’re looking for something truly special, why not hop on the beautiful art deco Belmond Venice Simplon-Orient Express and travel in style across the Alps, from London to Venice.