Back to Milan to take the fast train to Venice. The train model we were on can reach a maximum speed of 300km/hr (186 mph). Although, when we glanced at the monitor we only saw a top speed of 188km/hr (117 mph), still not too shabby. Got to Venice in the rain. It was only a light drizzle and we opted for the 15 minute walk. If, you’ve heard it’s difficult to find your way around Venice, that is indeed true. But with the trusty map we did fairly well.
We stayed at the Hotel Tivoli in the Dusoduro area of Venice. This hotel was in a good location. Pretty central from the train station and the main square.
It had taken us most of the day to get to Venice, so we asked the hotel desk clerk for dinner recommendations. The La Lanterna Osteria was an excellent choice. They started us off with a welcome drink and then brought over their tray of fresh seafood. Will and I decided to share the sea bass as it was a two person meal. The caprese salad I started with was excellent. They then brought over the exact fish that was to be cooked for us for our approval. It seemed to be enough to feed at least 5 people. The sea bass was excellent and turned out to be the perfect amount for two. The meal was ended with the waiter bringing over a nice shot of limoncello. Bellissimo!
We started our morning by going to the St Mark’s square and touring the Basillica. It was about a 15-20 minute wait for those of us without tickets. Took in a couple more museums and went back to get Lorraine for lunch. Found a nice café and had a nice salad with tuna. Seriously, I think, I’ve eaten more seafood in these last few days then I have in my life.
Toured the crypt of Zaccaria, this crypt is creepy as it is constantly flooded by water. Pretty cool especially for the 1.50 entry fee. Since, it costs us 1 euro to use the toilet 1.50 seemed like a steal.
We had to do the typical Venice thing and take a gondola ride. It was nice and I was glad we got the one with a serenade. Just made the ride more enjoyable.
We had tickets for a music concert that Lorraine had wanted to hear. It was a string orchestra group that played classical music from Vivaldi, Handel and Bach. Really a great night.
Our time in Venice was shorrt as we were headed to Verona the following morning.