Think James Bond movies, Gondolas and Cornetto ice cream. Venice is one of the most romantic cities on earth.

The city itself is a fascinating - it's completely unique, like nowhere else in the world. It was founded more than 1,500 years ago on 117 different islands. The best way to get around is by boat! It's a series over 150 canals, 400 bridges and many ancient pavements.

The buildings rest upon oak and pine posts that are driven deep into the ground to create a solid foundation. Apparently, as the soil is waterlogged there is no free oxygen so the piles don't decay.

The historic city centre consists of six separate quarters: Cannaregio, Castello, Dorsoduro, San Marco, San Polo and Santa Croce. There are a number of tourist information offices in the centre that can provide you with information on museums, events, Venice festivals, Venice travel and the best places to see, stay and eat.

Outside the city there are many other towns close by that you can explore, including: Burano, Murano, Padua, Torcello, Verona and Vicenza.