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The most iconic tourist attraction after St Mark's Square and its wonders is the Grand Canal. This magnificent waterway lined with palaces and churches bisects the city, tracing three wide curves and offering ever-changing views. For many centuries the Grand Canal served as the main route for merchant ships approaching Rialto. It is almost 4 km long, varies in width from 30 to 85 metres and is on average 4 metres deep. It takes about 45 minutes to cover the whole stretch. The Gran Canale has the merit of having made Venice a commercial power, thanks to the possibility to reach every corner of the city. Through this central artery the city has also managed to develop architecturally, as you travel along it you will see the differences in the buildings. In fact, navigating along the Grand Canal you will be able to see most of the architectural magnificence in Byzantine, Gothic, Renaissance Baroque and Neoclassical styles. If you visit Venice, you should take a trip along the Grand Canal either by waterbus or water taxi. To take photos, we recommend the Ponte degli Scalzi, the Rialto Bridge and the Accademia Bridge. The windows and loggias of the museums along the Canal are also excellent vantage points for souvenir photos. So if you are visiting the Ca' d'Oro, the Peggy Guggenheim Collection or the Ca' Rezzonico, don't forget to look out of the windows for a great view.

If you're in Venice, try to do as the Venetians do and take one of the ferries that cross the canal at fixed points. These connect the city's nerve centres, sparing you bridges and giving you glimpses of Venetian palaces at water level.

Some of the most impressive buildings along the Grand Canal have been converted into galleries and museums. Others have been converted into flats and guesthouses. Staying with a view of the Grand Canal is an unforgettable experience. Staying on the Gran Canale will also allow you to attend unique events such as the Regata Storica. Of course, one of the most romantic ways to travel the Grand Canal is by gondola. If you are a tourist and don't feel like jumping on a gondola, use a vaporetto.

 If you visit Venice try to enjoy the views that the Grand Canal can offer you. They are unforgettable, especially at sunset.