Venetian Summer

A MUSEUM EN PLEIN AIR

Every marble, every fondamenta, every reflection on the emerald waters of the lagoon gushes forth naked, raw beauty; a swirling aestheticism that in summer can be appreciated at the height of its splendor. Walk aimlessly, let the city suggest you, when at a fork in the road, surrender to the labyrinth in which you are. Explore nooks, doors to the water, tiny clearings where even the air seems to stop. Lose yourself. Venice will give you its most authentic face. A secret to sailors: if you have the chance (and, especially, the good will), breathe Venice in the early morning hours, when almost everyone is asleep and the Sun slowly ascends along the palaces, it is even more majestic. 

VENTIAN SUNTAN

Relaxing, letting yourself be lulled by the melody of the waves lapping against the beach: a scenario apparently different from the image of traditional Venice, but just as fascinating. In a few tens of minutes, from the city centre it is possible to reach by boat the island of Lido di Venezia, famous for being the venue of the Film Festival. Here, amidst sumptuous villas and long sandy beaches, the feeling is that of living in Fellini's Dolce Vita: the fine sand and numerous bathing establishments make for a day of sun and relaxation. Just think that these beaches were once the favourite destination of the European bourgeoisie during the summer months, loquacious testimony to their value and charm.

THE MILK OF DREAMS

The Biennale has been, for 127 years, one of the most influential and innovative events for artists and art lovers from all over the world. Indeed, the Biennale is more than just an event: it is a true avant-garde cultural institution. The 59th edition, The Milk of Dreams, features 213 artists from 58 nations, with a total of 1433 works. A long journey through universal questions such as the meaning of the human figure, metamorphosis, the bond between man and earth, which in some cases even exhume masterpieces that have passed through the 'time capsules', five mini exhibitions within the exhibition space. The various art installations are often found inhabiting sumptuous noble palaces and wonderful places unknown to most: have fun chasing them through the calli.

A CONSTELLATION OF ISLANDS

Venice is surrounded by a constellation of fascinating and characteristic islands, easily accessible by boat. Is there a more summery stop than Burano, with its colourful dwellings? A kaleidoscope of bright colours unfolds through calli and canals, embracing all shades: from canary yellow to pink, from purple to ocean blue. The uniqueness of this island not only makes it a unique pearl in the world, but also a must-see destination for those who want to get to know the thousand facets of the Venetian lagoon. And then, mandatory stops at Murano, with its lace still jealously hand-embroidered by the ladies, Torcello and the marvelous mosaics of the Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta, and then San Lazzaro degli Armeni, the Giudecca...

CRAVING… ICE CREAM!

Loved and desired by all, a good ice cream can refresh the hottest moments of your Venetian days. Here it has been an integral part of the gastronomic tradition ever since Marco Polo introduced it at the end of his trip to China, making the Venetian bourgeoisie fall in love with it and decreeing its limitless success. Strolling through the calli it will not be difficult to find an ice-cream parlour with which to delight your palate: our advice, however, is to try the traditional Gelateria Da Nico (in particular, the gianduiotto da passeggio), the Gelatoteca Suso and its tall cones, and Rosa Salva, which as well as being an ice-cream parlour is also a historic pastry shop.

FILM FESTIVAL

The beautiful Venetian season comes to an end on the red carpet of the Film Festival, trodden every year by stars of international calibre: the Lido di Venezia wears its most glamorous mask for this occasion, enchanting everyone with opulence and vivacity. Not only the glittering parades of the big names of the film industry, but cultural events and exclusive screenings accompany this period: it is the last, precious farewell to the heat and the sun, through the most heartfelt homage ever... art. This year's godmother of excellence will be Rocío Muñoz Morales, Spanish actress and model, and among the titles nominated for the Golden Lion the favorites are definitely Bardo, Alejandro González Iñárritu's Mexican comedy, and Guillermo del Toro's Pinocchio: this edition will undoubtedly be memorable.

Want to experience your Venetian summer at the Ruzzini Palace Hotel?