Venice - Boat Tour

Given that gondola rides in Venice are about 80€ for a 40 minute ride, we went for the cheap version: the number 2 (non-express) ferry down the Grand Canal (7€), with Rick Steves' excellent audio guide. It was getting dark when we left, which actually made for some very pretty lighting on the buildings and reflecting off the water.
We saw the Rialto Bridge (#1), a bunch of merchants' palaces (#2, #3), and the large basilica of La Salute (#4).
It was interesting to learn that Venice was very multicultural/open, with influences from different cultures/religions (as long as you can trade!), so you get palaces with multiple different styles like (#2).Read more