Under the Tuscan Sun: Florence and Beyond

Day 1: Florence, The Heart of Renaissance Art and Architecture

After an overnight train journey from Munich, we arrived early morning in Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance. The first rays of the Tuscan sun illuminated the terracotta rooftops as we made our way to a Youth Hostel. After checking in and freshening up, we stepped out to explore a city that once defined the course of European art and culture.

Our first stop was Piazza della Repubblica, the vibrant square marking the historic centre of Florence. Surrounded by elegant cafés, arched porticoes, and street performers, this piazza reflects the city’s transformation from medieval marketplace to a lively cultural hub.

A short walk led us to Piazza del Duomo, dominated by the magnificent Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, or simply the Duomo. Its marble façade in green, pink, and white tones stands as one of the greatest masterpieces of Gothic architecture. The Cupola, designed by Filippo Brunelleschi, is a marvel of engineering, a massive red dome that defined Renaissance innovation. Climbing to the top offers a panoramic view of Florence’s rooftops and the rolling Tuscan hills beyond. Beside it rises Giotto’s Bell Tower, a slender Gothic structure richly decorated with sculptural panels and vibrant marble patterns.

Continuing through narrow lanes lined with artisan shops, we reached Piazza della Signoria, the political heart of Florence. The square is an open-air sculpture gallery with replicas of famous works, including Michelangelo’s David and Perseus with the Head of Medusa. Overlooking it stands Palazzo Vecchio, Florence’s fortress-like town hall with crenelated towers and grand chambers adorned with frescoes celebrating the city’s history.

Just behind the piazza lies the world-renowned Uffizi Gallery, one of the oldest and most important art museums in Europe. Inside, masterpieces by Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Botticelli, Raphael, and Titian fill the halls. Botticelli’s “The Birth of Venus” and “Primavera” are among the most captivating exhibits, embodying the elegance and humanism of the Renaissance. Running above the gallery is the Vasari Corridor, a secret passage built for the Medici family to move privately between the Palazzo Vecchio and their residence, Palazzo Pitti, across the river.

Crossing the Ponte Vecchio, Florence’s oldest bridge, was another highlight. The bridge’s unique charm lies in its row of small jewellery shops that hang over the Arno River, a tradition dating back to medieval times. On the southern bank, the Palazzo Pitti stands as a grand Renaissance palace housing royal apartments and art collections. Behind it stretch the Boboli Gardens, an expansive landscape of terraces, sculptures, fountains, and shaded walkways that reflect classic Italian garden design.

Later, we visited the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella, located near the main railway station. Its façade combines Gothic and early Renaissance elements, while inside are frescoes by Masaccio and Ghirlandaio. A short walk away stands Basilica di Santa Croce, known as the “Temple of the Italian Glories,” where greats like Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli are buried. The Basilica di San Lorenzo, associated with the Medici family, offered another artistic marvel.

Before dusk, we passed under the Arco di Trionfo, an elegant neoclassical arch that once marked the city’s northern gate. Our final visit of the day was the Galleria dell’Accademia, home to one of the most famous sculptures in the world, Michelangelo’s David. Standing over five meters tall, the statue embodies the perfection of human anatomy and Renaissance ideals of strength and beauty. Other exhibits include Michelangelo’s Prisoners and St. Matthew, revealing the artist’s process of “liberating” figures from marble. The day ended with a short walk to Piazza dei Miracoli, Florence’s smaller namesake square inspired by Pisa’s grandeur.

 

Day 2: Pisa, The City of the Leaning Tower

The next morning, we boarded a regional train to Pisa, an hour-long journey through the scenic Tuscan countryside dotted with olive groves and vineyards. From Pisa Centrale, we walked through the old streets toward the Leaning Tower, passing the tranquil Santa Maria della Spina, a small Gothic church on the banks of the Arno River. Its detailed marble carvings and pinnacles make it a hidden gem despite its modest size.

Soon, the streets opened into the iconic Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles). Here, the Leaning Tower of Pisa stood at a striking angle, surrounded by lush green lawns and brilliant white marble buildings. The tower, actually the campanile of the Duomo di Pisa, leans due to the soft ground beneath its foundation, a flaw that turned into global fame. The Cathedral (Duomo) itself, with its Romanesque façade and bronze doors, reflects the height of Pisan maritime power. Adjacent to it stands the Baptistery, the largest in Italy, known for its acoustics and elegant design.

Before returning, we took a short detour through Piazza dei Cavalieri, once the political centre of medieval Pisa and now home to the Scuola Normale Superiore. The square’s Renaissance palaces, designed by Giorgio Vasari, show another face of Pisa’s artistic legacy. In the afternoon, we walked back to the station and returned to Florence for the evening.

 

Day 3: Siena, The Medieval Jewel of Tuscany

Next day, we took an early morning regional train to Siena, a city famous for its medieval character and timeless beauty. From the station, a pleasant uphill walk led us through narrow cobbled lanes to the magnificent Piazza del Campo, one of Europe’s greatest medieval squares. Shaped like a shell and lined with ochre-colored buildings, this square is the heart of Siena’s civic life and the venue for the famous Palio horse race.

Dominating the piazza is the Palazzo Pubblico, the Gothic town hall adorned with frescoes depicting civic virtues and the famous Allegory of Good and Bad Government by Ambrogio Lorenzetti. Its slender Torre del Mangia rises beside it, offering sweeping views of Siena’s rooftops and the surrounding countryside. At the centre of the square lies the Fonte Gaia, an ornate marble fountain decorated with sculptures of biblical figures.

A short walk uphill brought us to the Siena Cathedral (Duomo di Siena), a black-and-white striped masterpiece combining Gothic and Romanesque styles. Inside, intricate marble floors, detailed frescoes, and the Pulpit by Nicola Pisano stand out as artistic highlights of medieval Italy. The cathedral’s library, with its frescoes by Pinturicchio, preserves the brilliance of Renaissance art within a Gothic setting.

Continuing through winding alleys, we reached the Basilica of San Domenico, a massive brick structure that houses relics of St. Catherine of Siena. Nearby lies the Fonte di Fontebranda, one of the city’s oldest fountains, once essential for water supply and wool production. Its ancient arches and cool stone surroundings retain a quiet medieval charm.

As the sun began to set, we walked back to the station, admiring Siena’s timeless skyline of domes and towers. Returning to Florence in the evening, we prepared for the overnight train back to Munich, reflecting on three days spent walking through centuries of history.

The journey through Tuscany was a vivid immersion into the world of Renaissance art, Gothic architecture, and medieval splendour. From the grandeur of Florence’s domes to the tilt of Pisa’s tower and the graceful charm of Siena’s piazza, every city revealed a distinct chapter in Italy’s cultural heritage. Tuscany is not just a region on the map, it is a living museum of human creativity, endurance, and beauty that continues to inspire travellers across generations.

Luxembourg: The Grand Duchy Diaries

Our journey to Luxembourg City began before sunrise aboard the ICE train from Munich. The route involved changing trains at Stuttgart, Koblenz, and Trier before crossing into Luxembourg. The stretch along the Rhine River valley between Stuttgart and Koblenz was a scenic highlight, rolling vineyards, quaint riverside towns, and hilltops crowned with medieval castles overlooking the waters. The Rhine, winding gracefully through steep cliffs, offered views of fortresses like Marksburg and Stolzenfels, silent witnesses to centuries of European history.

After arriving at Luxembourg City in late morning, we checked into the youth hostel located conveniently near the Alzette River, freshened up, and set out on foot to explore the historic heart of the city, a blend of ancient fortifications and modern vibrance.

Our walking tour began with the Old Fortifications that once made Luxembourg known as the “Gibraltar of the North.” The high defensive walls and bastions rising from the cliffs showcased the city’s former strategic strength. From there, we climbed towards the Holy Ghost Citadel, originally built in the 17th century, offering panoramic views of the Petrusse Valley below. The nearby Spanish Turrets, remnants from the Spanish occupation period, stood as picturesque watchtowers guarding the valley.

Continuing further, we reached the famous Casemates, an underground maze of tunnels and galleries carved deep into the rock. The Bock Casemates, dating back to the 18th century, were especially fascinating. These subterranean passages once housed soldiers, horses, and ammunition, forming an integral part of the city’s defence system. Emerging from the tunnels, we stood atop the Bock Promontory, a rocky outcrop offering one of the finest views in Luxembourg. From there, the Alzette River curved gracefully below, and the pastel-toned houses of Grund spread out along the valley floor.

Walking along the ridge brought us to the Beck Bastion and the scenic Corniche, often called “Europe’s most beautiful balcony.” From this elevated walkway, we looked over the lower town of Grund, its stone bridges, and the green valley beneath, a view that perfectly captured Luxembourg’s multi-level cityscape.

Crossing the Pfaffenthal district, we ascended towards Fort Thüngen, also known as the “Three Acorns.” The restored fortress, now part of the Museum of Modern Art complex, represented Luxembourg’s continuous evolution, from a fortress city to a cultural capital.

Returning to the upper town, we wandered through the cobbled streets of the Old Town, where elegant façades, government buildings, and quiet courtyards gave a sense of timelessness. The Grand Ducal Palace stood proudly with its ornate Renaissance-style architecture, the official residence of the Grand Duke of Luxembourg and an emblem of the nation’s monarchy. Nearby, the Place d’Armes buzzed with life, surrounded by open-air cafés and framed by classic buildings. A short walk brought us to William Square (Place Guillaume II), marked by the equestrian statue of Grand Duke William II and the Town Hall, the civic heart of the city.

We then continued to the Gëlle Fra Monument, a golden statue symbolizing freedom and the bravery of Luxembourg’s soldiers. Standing tall against the sky at Place de la Constitution, it offered commanding views over the Petrusse Valley. The adjacent Cathédrale Notre-Dame, with its striking Gothic spires and intricate stained glass windows, added a solemn beauty to the scene.

Crossing towards the Adolphe Bridge, we admired the sweeping stone arches spanning the deep valley, an engineering marvel and one of the city’s most recognized landmarks. From the bridge, the skyline of Luxembourg appeared layered, ancient walls, modern glass structures, and lush green valleys intertwined in perfect harmony. Nearby, the Viaduct (Passerelle), an older stone bridge, echoed the same grandeur, connecting the upper and lower parts of the city with graceful symmetry.

As dusk settled, the city’s lights began to reflect softly on the river, casting a golden hue over the fortifications and bridges. Our walk through Luxembourg had felt like traversing different centuries, from medieval defences to contemporary elegance, all compactly woven within this remarkable capital built on cliffs and valleys.

Prague: The Heart of Bohemia

Our visit to Prague began with an early morning flight from Munich. After landing, we boarded a city bus that took us through the clean, tree-lined avenues to the youth hostel, located conveniently near Dejvická metro station. After checking in, we took the metro towards Malostranská, the nearest stop for the Hradčany district. The short ride brought us to the foot of one of Europe’s most magnificent historical complexes – Prague Castle.

 

Day 1: The Majesty of Prague Castle and Hradčany

As we walked uphill from Malostranská, the panorama of Prague Castle unfolded above us, a monumental fortress that had stood for more than a thousand years. Through the centuries, each ruler had left a distinct mark; Gothic spires, Renaissance halls, Baroque facades, and neoclassical wings all coexisted in layered harmony, forming a living record of Central Europe’s architectural evolution.

We entered through the massive gate, guarded by statues of battling giants, and stepped into the first courtyard; a wide ceremonial space lined with elegant buildings. Moving ahead, we reached the second courtyard, where the Chapel of the Holy Cross stood with its graceful arcades and classical proportions. Beside it, the Picture Gallery of Prague Castle displayed masterpieces from the collection of Emperor Rudolph II; paintings by Titian, Rubens, and Veronese among others.

At the heart of the complex rose the magnificent St. Vitus Cathedral, whose soaring Gothic spires dominated the skyline. Inside, the stained glass windows glowed in jewel-like colours. The Chapel of St. Wenceslas, decorated with gilded reliefs and precious stones, held the tomb of Bohemia’s patron saint. We climbed the Great Tower for a sweeping view over the city’s red roofs and the meandering Vltava River.

Next, we entered the Old Royal Palace, once the seat of Bohemian kings. The vast Vladislav Hall, with its ribbed vaulted ceiling, had witnessed royal banquets, coronations, and even early indoor tournaments. We descended via the Rider’s Staircase, wide enough for knights on horseback to pass, and explored the Ludvík Wing, once the royal residence. Close by, the Mihulka Powder Tower, a round bastion from the 15th century, reminded us of the Castle’s defensive past.

We continued to the Convent of St. George and its adjoining Basilica of St. George, one of the oldest surviving churches in Prague, notable for its Romanesque simplicity and twin red spires. Behind the main castle buildings, we walked into the Royal Garden, a tranquil Renaissance landscape with symmetrical lawns and ornamental fountains. The elegant Ball-Game Hall stood nearby, once used for aristocratic sports and festivities. Across the garden, the Summer Palace of Queen Anne, with its delicate arcades, was one of the finest Renaissance buildings north of the Alps. The nearby Riding School, now an exhibition space, completed this section of the complex.

Our next stop was the Golden Lane, a narrow alley lined with tiny, colourful houses that once housed castle guards, goldsmiths, and craftsmen. One of these, number 22, had once been occupied by Franz Kafka, who found inspiration in its solitude. At the end of the lane stood the White Tower and the Daliborka Tower, both used as prisons in earlier centuries.

Leaving the Castle grounds, we entered Hradčany’s noble quarter, home to grand palaces and embassies. The Lobkowicz Palace, now a private museum, displayed family collections of art and musical manuscripts. The Schwarzenberg Palace, with its striking sgraffito facade, and the Archbishop’s Palace, with its Rococo ornamentation, showcased contrasting architectural styles. The Sternberg Palace housed part of the National Gallery’s European art collection, while the Černín Palace, immense and austere, stood as one of the largest Baroque palaces in Prague.

Across the square was the Loreta, a Baroque pilgrimage complex famous for its carillon of bells and the replica of the Santa Casa from Italy. The nearby Capuchin Monastery added a sense of quiet devotion. A short walk took us to the Strahov Monastery, known for its Strahov Library, one of the most beautiful in Europe. The Theological and Philosophical Halls contained ancient globes, illuminated manuscripts, and ceiling frescoes depicting the pursuit of wisdom.

Descending from the monastery, we strolled down Nerudova Street, a charming Baroque thoroughfare lined with old merchant houses marked by sculpted emblems instead of numbers, such as the Golden Key and the Red Eagle. Among the grand residences were the Thun-Hohenstein Palace, now the Italian Embassy, and the Morzin Palace, recognizable by its statues of chained Moors.

We reached the Lesser Town Square (Malostranské náměstí), dominated by the magnificent St. Nicholas Church, one of the finest Baroque churches in Central Europe. Around the square stood elegant palaces like the Sternberg, Smiřický, and Kaiserstain, each with a distinctive story. The nearby Wallenstein Palace, now the seat of the Czech Senate, boasted vast gardens and decorative sculptures.

Our route then led past the Church of St. Thomas, the terraced Vrtba Garden, and the Church of Our Lady Victorious, known worldwide for the statue of the Infant Jesus of Prague. Passing through Maltese Square, we crossed over to Kampa Island, a peaceful green space by the river that offered fine views of the Charles Bridge.

The Charles Bridge, completed in the 15th century, connected the Lesser Town with the Old Town. Built of sandstone blocks and supported by sixteen arches, it was lined with thirty statues and sculptural groups depicting saints and historical figures. From the centre of the bridge, the view was unforgettable, Prague Castle stood proudly on one side, while the towers of the Old Town framed the opposite bank. Musicians, painters, and street performers added life to the historic scene.

Before returning, we walked through Vojan Park, one of the oldest public gardens in the city, tranquil and shaded, with small chapels dedicated to Elijah and St. Theresa. As evening fell, we boarded a tram back to Dejvická, completing a day filled with history and grandeur.

 

Day 2: Old Town, Jewish Quarter, and New Town

We began our second day by taking the metro to Staroměstská station, right in the heart of Prague’s Old Town. From there, we entered Josefov, the Jewish Quarter, a district steeped in history and resilience. The Old Jewish Cemetery, with its densely packed gravestones dating from the 15th to the 18th century, told a powerful story of endurance. Nearby, the Pinkas Synagogue served as a Holocaust memorial, with thousands of names of victims inscribed on its walls. The Klausen Synagogue presented exhibits on Jewish traditions, while the Old-New Synagogue, built in the 13th century, remained one of Europe’s oldest active synagogues. We also visited the High Synagogue, the Jewish Town Hall with its Hebrew clock running counterclockwise, and the richly decorated Spanish Synagogue, known for its Moorish interior design. The nearby Church of the Holy Ghost stood as a Christian counterpart, while the Convent of St. Agnes, an early Gothic structure, reflected Prague’s medieval religious life.

Crossing toward the river, we reached the Rudolfinum, a neo-Renaissance concert hall that now serves as the home of the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra. From there, we entered the maze of the Old Town, where every corner held a fragment of history. The Powder Tower, once a city gate and gunpowder store, marked the traditional start of royal coronation processions. Beside it stood the Municipal House, a masterpiece of Art Nouveau architecture.

We wandered through streets lined with historic houses bearing whimsical names, At the Three Kings, At the White Lion, At the Black Sun, and the House of the Black Madonna, an early example of Czech Cubism. The Church of St. James, with its richly baroque interior, and the Estates Theatre, where Mozart premiered Don Giovanni, stood nearby. The Carolinum, part of Charles University, reminded us of Prague’s long academic heritage.

Soon, we reached the Old Town Square, which was bustling with activity as the annual Prague Marathon was underway. Runners filled the historic square, circling past landmarks like the Church of Our Lady before Týn, the elegant Kinský Palace, and the Jan Hus Monument. The Old Town Hall, with its world-famous Astronomical Clock, drew crowds as the twelve apostles appeared in their hourly procession.

We continued toward Mariánské Square, where the Clam-Gallas Palace displayed fine Baroque details. Along Karlova Street, we passed shops and courtyards before reaching the Clementinum, a vast Jesuit complex with libraries and an astronomical tower. At Knights of the Cross Square, we saw the Old Town bridge tower and looked once again toward the Charles Bridge, this time from the opposite side.

Following the tram lines along the river, we reached the Dancing House, an icon of modern architecture nicknamed “Fred and Ginger” for its fluid, dynamic curves. From there, we walked into Wenceslas Square, the symbolic heart of Prague’s New Town. Once a medieval horse market, it had become the stage for major historical events. The National Museum crowned its upper end, overlooking the wide boulevard.

Nearby, the Franciscan Garden offered a quiet refuge amid the bustle. We visited the Church of Our Lady of the Snows, the Church of St. Ignatius, and the New Town Hall, each representing a different period of the city’s growth. Farther south stood the Emause Monastery, and the Church of St. Cyril and Methodius, associated with wartime resistance. Our walk ended at the Faust House, a historic residence linked to many legends.

As evening approached, we took the metro back to Dejvická and returned to our hostel, our feet tired but our minds filled with images of centuries layered together in perfect continuity.

 

Day 3: Farewell and Return

The next morning, as we boarded the return flight to Munich, we watched Prague’s skyline fade; the towers of St. Vitus, the domes of St. Nicholas, and the bridge statues standing silently over the Vltava. Prague had presented itself as a living museum of European civilization, where Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and modern eras merged effortlessly.

All Roads Lead to Rome

Day 1: Arrival in the Eternal City

It was the long weekend around August 15th, and after a full day’s train journey from Munich, we finally rolled into Rome; tired, curious, and more than a little excited. The Italian countryside had kept us company for most of the ride, with its vineyards, olive groves, and the occasional glimpse of hilltop towns. By late evening, we reached our base, Plus Camping Roma, a popular camping site on the outskirts of the city. The atmosphere was lively, with travellers from all over Europe, pools glinting in the sunset, and a sense that the weekend was going to be special. We unpacked, stretched our legs, and settled in, ready to take on the layers of history that awaited us.

 

Day 2: The Vatican and Central Rome

The next morning began with a bus ride straight into Vatican City, the smallest country in the world yet overflowing with art, faith, and grandeur. We started the Vatican Museum, a sprawling complex that could easily take days to explore. Corridors lined with sculptures, frescoes, and tapestries led us deeper into the heart of the collection. Among the many sections, the Borgia Apartments, decorated with vivid Renaissance paintings, stood out for their detail and storytelling.

Moving on, the Raphael Rooms left a lasting impression, especially “The School of Athens,” where philosophy, art, and human brilliance seemed to converge on a single wall. The highlight, of course, was the Sistine Chapel. Even with the crowd, it was impossible not to be awed by Michelangelo’s ceiling, every inch telling stories of creation, temptation, and faith.

Outside, St. Peter’s Square opened up before us, vast and perfectly symmetrical. The obelisk at the center has seen more centuries than most cities, and the surrounding colonnades almost seemed to embrace the visitors in a grand architectural gesture. Entering St. Peter’s Basilica, we were struck by its sheer scale. Every corner was filled with sculptures, domes, and light filtering in through high windows. Climbing up to the dome offered an unforgettable view, Vatican City below, and Rome stretching endlessly beyond.

Crossing the Tiber River later that afternoon, we reached Castel Sant’Angelo, once the emperor’s mausoleum and later a papal fortress. Its circular shape and commanding position gave a sense of the city’s evolution from empire to church rule. We ended the day at Piazza Navona, one of Rome’s most beautiful squares. The Fountain of Four Rivers stood proudly at its centre, with Bernini’s figures representing great rivers of the known world, the Nile, Ganges, Danube, and Rio de la Plata.

 

Day 3: Ancient Rome Unfolds

Our third morning started early with a bus to Piazza della Rotonda, home to the magnificent Pantheon. Its dome, nearly 2000 years old, still holds the record for the largest unreinforced concrete dome in the world. The open oculus at the top let in a perfect beam of light, moving across the marble floor like a slow sundial.

From there, we walked to Piazza Venezia, dominated by the Altar of the Fatherland, a massive white monument built in honour of Italy’s first king. Climbing up the steps gave sweeping views of the city below. Just behind it lay Capitoline Hill, one of the original seven hills of Rome. Designed by Michelangelo, Piazza del Campidoglio had that classic Renaissance symmetry, surrounded by museums and elegant facades. Nearby ruins reminded us that this hill once held the Temple of Jupiter Optimus Maximus, the most important temple in ancient Rome. The Cordonata, a gently sloping staircase, led down elegantly to the street, past the Palazzo Senatorio, the seat of Rome’s city council today.

Descending from the Capitoline Hill brought us straight into the Roman Forum, the true heart of ancient Rome. Walking among the ruins felt like stepping through history itself. The Temple of Saturn, Temple of Vesta, Arch of Titus, and the Senate House all stood as reminders of an empire that once ruled much of the known world.

A short walk later, the massive Colosseum came into view, truly one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Even in ruins, it is awe-inspiring. Standing inside the arena, it was easy to imagine the roar of crowds, gladiators in armour, and the thrill of ancient spectacles. Across from it stood the Arch of Constantine, commemorating the emperor’s victory and marking the beginning of Christian Rome.

We continued towards the Palatine Hill, the birthplace of the city itself. The ruins of imperial palaces like the Palace of Domitian overlooked the ancient Circus Maximus, once a vast chariot-racing stadium. The size of everything in Rome made it clear how powerful and ambitious this civilization once was.

In the late afternoon, we took a bus to the Appian Way, one of the oldest and most important Roman roads. The stillness here was a stark contrast to the city’s bustle. Lined with cypress trees and ancient tombs, it led us to the Catacombs, underground burial chambers that stretched for miles, eerie, fascinating, and deeply historic.

 

Day 4: The Final Walk Through Rome

Our last morning began with a visit to the Trevi Fountain, Fontana di Trevi, one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks. Even early in the day, the fountain was lively, with visitors tossing coins over their shoulders to ensure a return to Rome. The sculptures and cascading water made for a perfect farewell scene.

From there, we climbed the Spanish Steps, connecting Piazza di Spagna with the Trinità dei Monti church above. The steps offered great views and a sense of daily Roman life, with people sitting, chatting, and soaking in the sun.

Our final stops were two stunning churches, Santa Maria del Popolo, known for its Caravaggio paintings, and Santa Maria della Vittoria, which holds Bernini’s dramatic “Ecstasy of Saint Teresa.” Both were smaller compared to St. Peter’s but full of artistic treasures that summed up Rome’s spirit, beauty, belief, and brilliance woven together.

As the day ended, we boarded our train back to Munich, another long ride, but one filled with reflections of everything we had seen. In four days, we had walked through centuries, from the Roman Empire to the Renaissance to modern life, all layered seamlessly across the same cobbled streets. We had followed the footsteps of Robert Langdon from Angels and Demons – a book we recently read – tracing the same corridors, piazzas, and churches, where history, art, and mystery come alive at every turn.

Rome had lived up to every bit of its legend: ancient yet alive, monumental yet human.

Venice: A Journey through the Floating City

It was still dark when our bus rolled out of Munich, tracing its way south through the Alpine routes toward Italy. The excitement of visiting Venice, the fabled city built on water, kept everyone wide awake. After hours on the road, the landscape began to shift, the air turned salty, and the sunlight glistened over the Venetian Lagoon. By the time we reached the bus terminal at Tronchetto, the day had properly begun. From there, the only way forward was by boat.

The moment our vaporetto (water bus) glided into the Grand Canal, it felt like entering a painting that had suddenly come to life. The canal curved like an inverted “S” through the city, lined with palaces that seemed to rise straight out of the water. Our boat cruised past the Palazzo Grassi, the ornate Ca’ Rezzonico, and the Gothic splendour of Ca’ d’Oro, their façades reflecting centuries of art, trade, and power. Gondolas drifted alongside us, their oars dipping rhythmically, a vivid reminder that this is a city without roads.

As we neared the Piazza San Marco, the Grand Canal widened, revealing one of Europe’s most iconic sights. Stepping off the boat felt like stepping into history. The Piazza San Marco, or St. Mark’s Square, spread out before us, a vast open space bordered by grand arcades, their arches framing elegant shops and historic buildings. The square’s symmetry and openness were breathtaking, with the Campanile towering over one end and the Basilica di San Marco gleaming at the other.

We started with the Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale), a masterpiece of Venetian Gothic architecture. Its façade of pink Verona marble and white limestone stood in striking contrast to the blue sky. Inside, the palace unfolded like a museum of Venetian power. The Chamber of the Great Council, the largest room in the palace, was awe-inspiring, its golden ceiling framed colossal paintings by Tintoretto and Veronese. Walking through the Hall of the Senate, the Council Chamber, and the Armory, we could imagine the grandeur of the days when Venice ruled the seas.

A narrow, enclosed corridor led us next to the Bridge of Sighs, connecting the palace to the old prison. Looking through its small stone windows, one could sense the emotion behind its name, prisoners’ last glimpse of Venice before imprisonment. The quiet canal below, shadowed and still, seemed far removed from the lively piazza we had just left.

Emerging again into sunlight, we turned toward the St. Mark’s Basilica, a dazzling blend of Byzantine domes and golden mosaics. Its intricate façade, filled with arches, marble inlays, and bronze horses, told stories from centuries past. Inside, the shining gold mosaics covered almost every surface, creating an atmosphere of both grandeur and reverence.

Adjacent to it stood the St. Mark’s Campanile, the tall red-brick bell tower that dominates the Venetian skyline. Taking the elevator to the top, we were rewarded with a panoramic view, the domes of the basilica, the web of canals, and the endless lagoon stretching toward the Adriatic. Below, in the square, the Lion of Venice stood proudly atop its column, the winged lion symbolizing St. Mark and the Republic’s enduring spirit.

Crossing one of the smaller canals, we continued toward the Ponte di Rialto, the most famous bridge in Venice. Its elegant stone arch framed the bustling life of the Grand Canal. From its top, we watched gondolas weaving below and boats loaded with goods passing through, the same activity that had defined Venice’s trading heart for centuries. The surrounding area buzzed with small shops selling Venetian masks, glasswork, and souvenirs.

In the afternoon, we boarded a boat heading toward the Murano Islands, known worldwide for their glassmaking heritage. The ride through the lagoon offered a quieter, more local side of Venice, with pastel-coloured houses and calm waters. On Murano, we visited a glass factory, where artisans demonstrated the centuries-old craft of glassblowing. Watching them shape molten glass into delicate vases and intricate figurines was mesmerizing; a fusion of skill and patience that defined their legacy.

As the sun dipped lower, we made our way back by boat, retracing the Grand Canal in the golden light of evening. The palaces glowed warmly, and the reflections danced across the rippling water. By the time we reached the bus station, night had quietly settled over the lagoon. Boarding our return bus to Munich, we carried with us vivid images, of canals glistening under sunlight, bridges steeped in history, and a city that defied the very idea of land. Venice had left its unique mark, a floating dream anchored firmly in reality.