Venice

North of the Grand Canal

The northern part of the main island of Venice boasts plenty of attractions and it would be easy to not go anywhere else, particularly on a short trip. With the Palazzo San Marco holding so many delights you'll certainly not want to miss out. The Jewish Ghetto in the east was originally an area the Jews of Venice were forced to live in, and is still the cultural centre today. Look out for synagogues on the tops of tall buildings. At the western end you will find a peaceful public garden as well as the Arsenale, and this area offers quieter and more authentic hotels.

South of the Grand Canal

Crossing the Grand Canal either by one of the few bridges or in a boat will take you to the southern side of the main island. Here, the Santa Maria Della Salute church, Galleria dell'Accademia art gallery and the Peggy Guggenheim Museum cluster together, vying for your attention. Elsewhere there are plenty of streets to explore and with the university in the centre of this area the nightlife is at its most colourful here, particularly surrounding the Campo Santa Margherita.

Lido di Venezia

Once an exclusive beach resort, the Lido is open to all comers now, so if you want to take it easy for the day and sunbathe on the beach this is perfect. You can find some great hotels and shopping here too as well as Venice's only golf course! Septembers see the Venice Film Festival take over the island and film stars from far and wide come to participate. If you're looking to save money on your Venice hotel this is a good area to try; room rates are lower, but there's still excellent transport to the tourist areas.

Outlying Islands

There are plenty of islands to visit in Venice, and since travelling by vaporetto (waterbus) is easy and cheap you shouldnt just stick to the main island for your whole Venice holiday. Murano is famous for its coloured glass, and glass blowing displays are a big attraction. Burano has lovely colourful houses and for a look at the wilder side of Venice try the all-but-abandoned Torcello. Or for pleasant walks and a relaxing trip head to Sant'Erasmo, a mainly agricultural island.