A person can survive about two weeks without food and only three days without water, but nobody can survive a single day without romance. Venice, the city of water in northern Italy, exhibits romantic scenery like a fairy tale. Meet 118 islands with rich history, artistic heritage, and countless canals across the city. Join the Sungkyun Times (SKT) as it sails on a journey of romance to Venice.
Ciao Venezia
-City of Water
Venice is a unique and beautiful city located in northeastern Italy, in the Veneto region. Its picturesque canals between the Adriatic Sea and intricate architecture on top of the crystal water make the city prestigious for its beauty. Venice’s history began when the city was an important maritime republic, where it was the center of trade between Europe and the Eastern world with significant cultural and economic importance. Venice, a city of 118 small islands, is connected by canals and bridges, which have shaped the design of the city and ways of life over the centuries, giving unique features to the area. One key feature that makes Venice unique is its linguistic heritage, with some people in the area still speaking Venetian, which reflects the city’s unique identity and history. Another distinctive feature of Venice is its strict transport regulations prohibiting cars, motorcycles, and bicycles from entering the city limits to preserve the historic environment. Therefore, the residents and visitors rely on gondolas, water taxis, and the Vaporetto, Venice’s water bus system, as their primary means of transport through the waterways. These transportation restrictions, while posing challenges, help maintain the peaceful, traffic-free charm of the city and protect its delicate infrastructure.
-To the Island
Many people come to Venice by train, as they can arrive at Venice Santa Lucia station, which is in the center of the main Venice island. However, once they land in Venice by plane, many people are surprised that the only airport in Venice, Venice-Marco Polo Airport, is not on the main Venice island. For the confused Kingos, the SKT suggests two ways to reach the city center after arriving at Venice-Marco Polo Airport. The first option is to take the Alilaguna water bus, which connects the airport to various stops on the Venice canals. The boat offers a scenic route through the lagoon, which allows passengers to enjoy Venice’s famous waterways from the start of their journey. Although slower than other options, it offers a unique and relaxing way to enter the city. The second method is by land, taking a bus or taxi to Piazzale Roma, Venice’s central transport hub. From Piazzale Roma, travelers can take the Vaporetto or walk to their accommodations. This option is faster and more direct but cannot provide the same beautiful experience as arriving by water. Both options provide convenient access to the heart of Venice, each offering its advantages depending on the traveler’s preference for speed or scenery.
The Island of Romance
-Experience the Splendidness
Venice, where stories of beauty and grandeur whisper around every corner, is full of iconic landmarks. The first place that reveals the city’s beauty is Saint Mark’s Square, also known as Piazza San Marco, a breathtaking stage where the city’s elegance unfolds before your eyes. Framed by the Saint Mark’s Basilica, the towering Campanile, and the stately Procuratie buildings, this square feels like a live painting filled with history and grandeur. Right next to Saint Mark’s Square stands Palazzo Ducale, the palace of the supreme authority of the Republic of Venice, Doge of Venice, where the sense of splendor deepens. Once the home of the Doge and seat of Venetian power, this palace tells the story of a republic that once ruled the Venetian area. The Gothic architecture here is decorated with intricate stonework, and the palace’s grand facade is filled with masterpieces by Italian painters Titian and Veronese, making it possible for visitors to travel to the Golden Age of Venice. Just a short stroll away with an authentic cup of gelato in your hand, the Church of Santa Maria della Pietà, often referred to as the Vivaldi Church, brings a more intimate yet equally enchanting experience. This Baroque masterpiece, where the great Italian musician Antonio Vivaldi once led an orchestra of orphaned girls, not only presents a visual celebration but also connects the visitors to the spirit of Venetian music. The air inside is filled with the echoes of history as if the walls themselves still hum with the notes of The Four Seasons.
-Paint the Romance
Venice is a city of water and history, a whole treasure trove of artistic ingenuity, from classic masterpieces to pioneering modern works. The vibrant colors and expressive brushstrokes of the Venetian school of art, which flourished during the Renaissance, are still on display at many city corners today. Famous places like the Gallerie dell’ Accademia are home to masterpieces by Titian, Tintoretto, and Veronese. Their striking representations of religious and mythical scenes are sure to enthrall. When interacting with the artwork, the visitors immerse themselves in the spirit and artistic depth of the Venetian school. However, Venice is not just a relic of the past but a vibrant hub of contemporary art, perfectly embodied by the Peggy Guggenheim Collection. Located in a former Venetian palace along the Grand Canal, the museum showcases an impressive collection of modern works, from works by Picasso, Pollock, and Calder, contrasting the Renaissance art that dominates the city. The artistic conversation in Venice extends into the streets, where the elusive Banksy has left his mark with his powerful works of art. This piece, depicting a child refugee holding a distress flare, is a stark reminder of modern issues, contrasting Venice’s classical beauty and highlighting the city’s continued relevance in the global art scene. From the beauty of the Renaissance to the thrills of contemporary times, Venice is a city where art constantly evolves, depicting a romance that connects past and present.
Where to Flow in Venice
-Cinema Paradise
Venice also holds a special place in the world of cinema as the home of the Venice International Film Festival, one of the most prestigious film festivals globally. The Venice International Film Festival, founded in 1932, is one of the oldest film festivals, attracting filmmakers, actors, and films from all over the world. Held yearly on Lido Island, the festival celebrates the best of global cinema, awarding the coveted Golden Lion to outstanding films and directors. As well as a showcase for renowned filmmakers, the festival also contains value as it is a platform for emerging artists with bright talent, which makes the event a contribution to shaping the future of cinematography. This year, the Venice Film Festival showcased events that blended passionate innovation with powerful storytelling, from bold, independent films to high-profile premieres. The SKT visited this year’s Venice Film Festival and saw The American Backyard, the Italian gothic horror film that premiered for the event as the festival’s closing film. The SKT strongly recommends Kingos to check out the film when screened.
-Carnival Era
For Kingos disappointed by missing the Film Festival this year, a huge event remains in Venice with its lively and captivating festivals. The Venice Carnival, or Carnevale di Venezia, is one of the world’s most famous and lavish festivals, known for its intricate masks, luxurious clothing, and cheerful atmosphere. With roots tracing back to the 12th century, the carnival initially celebrated the end of winter with opulent parades and masked balls, allowing Venetians to indulge in freedom and anonymity. Today, the tradition continues, with participants donning meticulously crafted masks and costumes, turning the streets of Venice into a living theater of fantasy and elegance. The 2025 Venice Carnival will take place from February 22nd to March 4th, offering Kingos a unique opportunity to experience this timeless celebration in the heart of the city. From the historic Piazza San Marco to the winding canals, the entire city becomes a stage, inviting visitors to a world where history, art, and revelry collide.
Venice, with its unmatched blend of art, architecture, and music, invites you to lose yourself in its beauty and let its timeless splendor wash over you. Venice is a city that captures the heart and imagination, leaving an indelible mark on all who visit. With the SKT, let the magic of Venice inspire and awaken the romance in Kingos.