My first trip to Venice took place 21 years. It was during my 6-week post-grad European backpacking trip. And what should have been a magical part of our journey turned into a major decision point where our group of four travelers turned into two due to a sprained knee and matters of the heart (homesickness and missing a boyfriend). Add to that mostly rainy weather and the mood was fully set.

So I was looking forward to giving Venice another shot – with family in tow. And I’m very glad I did!

This trip, Venice was everything I thought it would be my first visit. Enchanting, charming, magical – an adult playland of canals and pedestrian mazes, aromatic restaurants, awe-inspiring architecture, and rich history beyond every turn,

We spent 3 days in Venice and covered a lot of ground, including a private history tour, gondola ride through hidden canals (and a funny 20 min interlude under a pedestrian bridge when an errant thunderstorm passed through), and lots of time just wandering – which is the very best way to see Venice.

Enjoy these pictorial highlights!