Venice, Italy

Venice, Italy is often referred to as the "City of Water", "City of Bridges", "City of Canals", "The Floating City"... all of these names are so accurate in describing the magnificent city.  Paris may be the most visited city in the world, but for me, Venice has a slight edge... there's something so magical about it, especially at night.

First glimpse of Venice from the water bus

Lights begin to turn on as it grows darker

After dark

They say not to use a map in Venice.  You walk up one alley, down another bridge, and even if you're going to the same place, you'll find a different way to go each time, and it doesn't matter which way is more scenic, because they all are.  Every bridge frames picturesque buildings on either side with gondolas gliding through the waters, people enjoying a stroll, and of course tourists like me snapping photos.

Piazza San Marco is the home to the beautiful Basilica San Marco, the interior done with all mosaic tiles (spectacular!), listen to the dueling quartets while sipping an expensive coffee at one of the outdoor cafes.  Take a ride on a gondola just for the experience, the museums such as the Peggy Guggenheim are great... but to me, Venice is all about getting lost in the crowd, and taking in the scene from walking around.  It truly is magnificent!

(Images property of Daily Decorum)