Venice

Venice (Venezia) needs no introduction. The Serenissima, a fabled destination for centuries conjures up a host of images, even for those who have not yet set foot in Italy: Gondoliers in striped jerseys, St. Mark's Square, the Rialto, the Bridge of Sighs, Venetian Masks, Gold mosaics of St Mark's and the City's maze of canals.

A glorious cliché, more romantic, more beautiful and more surprising than you could expect. One of life's unforgettable experiences.

With its 150 canals, 400 bridges and magnificent 16th- and 17th-century palaces and piazzas, it is no surprise that Venice is considered one of the most beautiful cities in the world.