Talk about a hidden gem! This architectural phenomena has opened after generations of restoration and squabble. I have always enjoyed touring first timers around the city…bobbing and weaving through narrow calles and then suddenly stopping here. Surprise! Welcome to the visually stunning cylindrical tower of Scala Contarini del Bovolo! A bovolo in Venetian dialect is a snail shell.
Venice is filled with the rich history of wealthy families outdoing one another in home design. Just take a ride down the Grand Canal to enjoy the visual game of "I have more money than you do"!
The uniqueness of this particular palace is that it is located in a dead end calle (street) genuinely hidden from any passerby. The design is purely aesthetic, a unique combination of Gothic, Renaissance and Venetian - Byzantine.
Its purpose? Apparently, to decorate the plain palace which it conceals. The stairs spiral up to a loggia (covered terrace) with the most spectacular views of the city I have ever enjoyed. I literally feel closest to the core of the city here, pivoting above the lagoon, ticking off each campanile by name.
The views from the top floor are so stunning... words simply cannot do this spot justice!
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"Ca' Bembo" is a referent point for Venice. It's an occupied palace that has become a free cultural and relaxation space right in the center!
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"Torrefazione Cannaregio" is the place I choose to get my first dose of caffeine for the day! Even the pickiest Venetian is satisfied at this shop!
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"Orsoni Furnace" is the only mosaic tile furnace still functioning in the historic center of Venice. It has revived the city's Byzantine mosaic production...
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"San Francesco del Deserto" in Venice is a little monastery and chapel located near Burano and Torcelio. You can only get there with a private boat...
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"Lio Piccolo" in Venice is the perfect place to go on a summer day when the heat is too much to take. I love going there by bike and used to do so daily!
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"Da Luca e Fred" is a small Osteria just a few steps away from the Railway Station of Venice. I like going to this bar / restaurant for the Aperitif.
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"Magna Bevi Tasi" is a typical Venice 'baccaro' where you can have an aperitif or drink. I like to sit outside on a nice sunny day, enjoying my spritz...
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"Campiello Remer" in Venice is the best place to have an aperitivo in the center of the city. This beautiful place does have a spooky legend...
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"VizioVirtù Cioccolateria" Venice is a fantastic chocolate shop I discovered recently while I was walking around...
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"Pasticceria Rosa Salva" in Venice is a bakery that uses the highest quality of ingredients. I love coming here during festivals like the Carnival...
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"Birreria Forst" is a restaurant just behind Saint Mark's square in Venice. It's a historical, rustic locale. I like that gondoliers come here for breaks!
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"Il Ridotto" Venice near Piazza San Marco is a special place to me. It is part of the Hotel Monaco & Canal Grande and it hosts special events.
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93 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the crowd & travel slow 🐌
✓ 93 Insider Tips from our local Spotters