North
Rialto Bridge-The famous bridge is full of beauty and charm, until all the tourists come toppling in. I’ve never seen a bridge so full of people. I would avoid the shopping thrill here because it is filled with touristy shops. The nearby Ruga can offer some deals, but the best merchants are found in other location.
Come to the bridge in the early morning or late evening. There will still be people, but not hundreds. I think some people have a hard time appreciating the beauty of Venice because of the crowds. Don’t visit when they do and you will find yourself speechless that you are in a city this magnificent.
Rialto Market-If you don’t like the smell of seafood, this market may not be the best for you. I love markets and I seek them out wherever I travel. Food reveals a culture, and seafood is the key to unlocking the Venetian way. If you are staying in an apartment, make sure you do some of your shopping here. If not, stroll through the fresh produce and catch of the day to see what life is like in this corner of Italy.
Venice Post Office/German Exchange-Maybe you’ve got some postcards to mail, and if not, stroll past the previous trading grounds for German metal makers. This dates back to the 1500s. How many sites in the states can say that?
Strada Nuova-This street is big for Venice standards. There are all kids of opportunities for shopping or eating. My favorite cicchetti can be found off this major street. Osteria al Bomba is difficult to find, but worth it in the end. The alley that lead to the osteria was barely large enough for me and my belly. Check out my post to learn more about this delicious stop.
Ruga Vecchia San Giovanni-If shopping is in your future, you may want to walk past the shops of the Rialto to the Ruga just past the bridge. I’m not saying the prices will knock your socks off, but they will be more affordable than tourist city in the Rialto and San Marco.
Liberated Traveler 