Amsterdam is often called the "Venice of the North". Marco Polo, on his world travels, called Suzhou, China "the Venice of the East". I've been to both cities, and many like them. While they're pleasantly nice and wonderful and such, they simply pale in comparison to the one, the only, original, Venice, Italy!.
Some would say the with overall visitor numbers at an estimated 20,000,000
(2007 figures), that Venice is a little touristy. The may be right. Some might say that the city is expensive considering it cost 1.50 just to use a toilet. They might have a point. But COME ON!! It's Venice. Spawning such notable names as Marco Polo, Antonio Vivaldi, Giovanni Giacomo Casanova just to name a few, the impact on modern art and culture is enormous. That's not even mentioning the historical role the Venetians played in the region. Wonderful architecture, World Heritage listings and all those wonderful (if a little smelly) canals, Venice is a sight to be seen.Eventually, every visitor will end up Piazza San Marco (St. Mark's Square). A
popular meeting place for tourists, photographers and countless pigeons, it is the heart of the city. And the jewel in the crown is St. Mark's Basilica. Originally started 1,200 years ago, it has gone through numerous reincarnations to become the beauty it is today. Frankly, with so many churches to see in Venice (and Italy in general) this one is a highlight. And it is one of only a few churches you DON'T have to pay for. Although free to enter (no backpacks allowed) you could always spend a few Euros to climb for great views for the top. And if the top of the church isn't high enough, St. Mark's Clock tower should satisfy you. With Doge's Palace nearby to satisfy your museum craving, many don't even wander far from the Square. There 
are certainly enough cafes and such to sustain caffeine levels. And they're great for people watching. Although it was snowing and blowing a gale when i visited, so nobody was crazy enough to brave the outdoor seats. Heck, even the poor birds were cuddling next to each other. It was damn cold!!! But hopping in from one cafe to another to reheat enough to stand to cold seemed to be a great plan. Besides, i had been to Venice 4 times before, so it's not like i was on any kind of sightseeing plan.
But the real charm of Venice is just getting lost among the islands. Put away the damn maps!!! It 
is nearly impossible to get lost, if you aren't looking for anything. Eventually you'll find a sign pointing to one of 3 destinations of interest. One being St. Mark's Square, another being Piazza Le Roma (where all transport links are) and the third being the Rialto Bridge (both larger photos above). With either of those 3 places easy to find, there should be no problem wandering through the canal. Most will dream of a trip on the water. Be prepared to pay. A gondola ride could cost as much as 100 EURO. And a "waterbus" costs 6.50 Euro. There are a few public gondolas, in places where there no bridges across the Grand Canal, and they're cheap..
In my opinion, the best way to arrive in Venice is by international ferry. The city is well connected to Greece, Croatia and others in the area. But failing that, the train station is well located with connection to pretty much anywhere in Italy. And the airport has easy (although very expensive) service into the city. With all the "off-the-beaten track" attitude aside, Venice is a one of a kind destination. Either on romantic holiday or just backpacking around, it has something for everyone.
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