Venice, like a beautiful woman, will make you fall in love in seconds, but understanding her could take years. An extraordinary city to which no superlative can be improperly applied, it is unique in its construction--it consists of 117 small islands bisected by 150 canals, and connected by 400 bridges. There are no cars here, to get around you must either walk or travel via the famous canal boats.

The number of "must see" sites in Venice is so long that each visitor will have to pick and choose his own itinerary. A good place to start or end your exploration is the renowned San Marcos Square. This is perhaps the only place in the world where you can sit down, enjoy a leisurely cup of coffee or tea, pay as much as 20 dollars for the privilege, and walk away feeling that you got your money's worth.

The biggest party of the year is Venice's ten day Carnivale, when the entire city throws all restraint out the window. Colorful costumes, spectacular masks, and lively parades add to the anything goes atmosphere. If it can be believed, the celebration is actually significantly more restrained today than in years past--at the height of its 18th century decadence, the celebration went on for as long as six months.

Be warned, lodging in Venice is more expensive than anywhere else in Italy. However, if you are in the mood for a splurge amid romantic surroundings, this is the place for it. Unique and historic hotels like the 15th century Londra Palace, with its waterfront location, will make you feel like European royalty.