Bridge of Sighs; reputedly it took its name by the sighs of condemned prisoners glancing at Venice for their last time while led to the dungeons. Tourists can walk the prisoners walk through the 'Itinerari Segreti', the palace's excellent guided tour. Number restrictions apply, so tours must be booked two days in advance on 041/522 4951. Each one lasts 90 minutes but the commentary is in Italian only.

The vaporetto continues its ride alongside the embankment, stopping at San Zaccaria, by the pink-coloured Hotel Danieli (one of the best known in Europe), Arsenale (for centuries the world's largest shipyard) and Sant'Elena (the largest public garden in Venice), before departing for the Lido, the Venetian beach resort.

Not all the museums, churches, galleries and shops can be seen from the vaporetto and some walking is necessary.

Not to be missed are various churches (Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari, San Tomá, very sizeable church holding paintings and statues from Tiziano, Bellini and Donatello), San Moisé (just before Saint Mark's Square), Santi Giovanni e Paolo (also known as San Zanipolo, located at Fondamenta Nuova), possibly the largest gothic church of the city. Inside are the resting places of various doge (governors).

One more church worth a visit is Il Redentore, on the Giudecca island. Particularly recommended if you are in Venice on the third weekend of July, during the Redentore celebrations. Art lovers should pause and admire the newly rebuilt Fenice theatre and admire the treasures at the Gallerie dell'Accademia. Founded in 1750 as the city's art school, it is now the largest collection of art from churches and other religious houses. Only 180 visitors are allowed at any time, so please try to avoid Sundays. Those who love glass masterpieces should head for Palazzo Trevisan-Cappello. From Ponte della Paglia (the one opposite the Bridge of Sighs, turn left into Calle degli Albanesi. At Campo Ss Filippo e Giacomo, turn left, cross the small bridge and walk right to the next bridge. And finally, for those curious about Jews and racial discrimination, the ghetto is the place to go. Located next to the Cá D'Oro quay, it was created in 1516 to keep the Jews under control. The small island was sealed off by large canals and Christian guards. Before 1516, Jews were allowed to trade but not to reside in Venice. Take a look at the Hebraic Museum, hosting a collection of silverware and religious items. Very interesting are the guided tours of the local synagogues. For an in-depth view of Jewish life in Venice, see the Jewish Ghetto of Venice website.

Venice has also some important islands like Murano, Burano, Torcello. Bookmark this page for future information.