Take time to meander - losing yourself in the maze of canals and lanes is one of Venice's principal pleasures. The cluster of sights around the Piazza San Marco are heart-clutchingly beautiful, but the more secret pleasures of the hushed backstreets are just as entrancing.

Day 1: Gondola Rides and Canal Tours

No trip is complete without taking a gondola tour in Venice. A Gondola Serenade on the Canals of Venice is the ultimate romantic experience. Complete with music and sweet melodies, you will glide along the Grand Canal and the minor canals of Venice. From low on the water of the narrow canals the palazzos look really magnificent. A real treat for the passionate photographer in you. You can also take a cruise along the Grand Canal in a luxurious motor boat complete with a guided tour of the world's finest liquid street - the Venice Grand Canal. You'll be treated to splendid views of historic palaces, churches, bridges, gardens and warehouses and be given a real insight into the origins and evolution of Venice's most important streets.

Day 2: Walking Tours of Venice

What to see in Venice? This unique city is best explored on foot to fully experience the city's past and present. An absolute must for the first time visitor is a tour of St. Mark's Square, the Basilica and its Byzantine heritage, the Doge's Palace and much more. If you only have one day to explore Venice, combine seeing these cultural sites with a canal boat tour. Or follow a trusty guide who will take you off the beaten track into the less visited labyrinthine streets and alleyways of the old quarters known only to fast moving locals keen to avoid the busy main thoroughfares.

Day 3: Day Trips from Venice

Just out of Venice emerges a land of towering peaks and spires that is the Dolomite Mountains. This excursion loops around the Sesto and Cortina regions of the Dolomiti (Dolomite Mountains) providing you with breathtaking views of the beautiful scenery. You could also travel at a relaxed pace, along scenic backroads, where you'll enjoy spectacular views of the hill towns of Vento and surrounding countryside that have inspired poets and writers over the centuries. Or take a relaxing trip visiting Veneto’s Medieval towns. Travelling into the Veneto countryside to visit the charming walled town of Marostica, the home of grappa (brandy-like Italian alcohol) at Bassano del Grappa, and enchanting Asolo, with its delightful gardens and palatial villas. Finally, end the day with a refreshing glass of Prosecco (sparkling Italian wine) at a local vineyard.