I finally had the chance to visit Venice, despite having been to Italy many times before. This was my first time exploring the iconic city, and it didn’t disappoint. I traveled from Rome to Venice on a Frecciarossa train from Roma Termini, and as always, I thoroughly enjoyed the journey. Italian fast trains are such a pleasant way to travel, and my experience in the first-class cabin was no exception—comfortable, smooth, and quick.

Once I arrived in Venice, I did all the usual touristy things. I visited the famous St. Mark’s Square and its stunning Basilica, wandered over the Rialto Bridge, and explored the winding canals that make Venice so unique. One thing I found particularly fascinating was the city’s water tram system. Using the vaporetto (water tram) to get around is a pretty unique public transportation experience, and I relied on it quite a bit during my stay.

During my time in Venice, I also made sure to visit Burano, a small island known for its brightly colored houses and traditional lace-making. Burano has a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere compared to the bustling main island of Venice, and the vibrant houses lining the canals were a photographer’s dream. It was a nice contrast to the busy tourist spots and gave me a chance to see a different side of Venetian life.

I also got incredibly lucky with the timing of my visit. I managed to walk around Venice with dry feet, but just a few days after I left, the city was flooded, which would have made the experience far less pleasant. While Venice’s frequent floods are a well-known issue, it’s a reminder to always check the weather and conditions when planning a trip there.

All in all, Venice and Burano were fantastic experiences, and I would love to visit again. If you’ve never been, I highly recommend it—it’s one of those places that feels like stepping into another world.