I am not the first to proclaim Venice is filled with glorious hidden spots! Pick up any Serenissima inspired novel and the authors have (Thomas Mann, Lord Byron, Henry James, Erica Jong, …Donna Leon) described it all. Likely you are traveling to Venice precisely because one of these writers has inspired your curiosity.

Well then, you must do your diligent duty of seeking out these unique locations. Little areas of peace and calm, perfectly preserved in a steady state of decay.

Aesthetic glories, improbable architecture all tucked down an alleyway, off the beaten path of tour groups following flag bearing guides. Look up for aerial walkways connecting one building to another while simultaneously preventing them from falling into one another. Man made amazement!

Campo de L’Abazia is one of my favorite “secret” spots. Located in the sestiere of Cannaregio.

This Campo is picture perfect. Visit this neighborhood for its local ambiance and lore.You will know you have arrived by the brilliant condition of the Brunelleschi style herringbone pavement, ornately decorated well and peculiar, yet common perpendicular position of La Scuola and the church.

The campo appears to be perfectly packaged for you shutterbugs! Please kindly remember picnicking is allowed only in designated parks of the city. This is NOT one of those spots! Grazie!

I highly recommend local author Alberto Tosi Fei. The author recounts many a good ghost story in his book entitled Venetian Legends and Ghost Stories. Tours are also available via tour company Passeggiate Italiane.